3 Rap Songs That Prove The Industry Is Changing

In today’s top 3, we dive deep into the evolving landscape of rap music, highlighting tracks that stand as testaments to this transformation: from Hunnid’s “Newvember,” with its catchy homage to teamwork and perseverance, to Stutter’s dancehall-infused “Day n Night,” and finally, Zodi’s introspective “Just Like This,” which blends indie sounds with rap’s raw emotion. Each song showcases not only the artists’ unique talents but also reflects broader shifts towards diversity in sound, depth in storytelling, and a move away from traditional themes. Join us as we dissect how these tracks underscore the dynamic, ever-changing nature of the rap industry.

3. “Newvember” by Hunnid

We are thrilled to dive into “Newvember” by Hunnid, a rap song that encapsulates the essence of teamwork and the fruits of relentless effort. With a hook that’s undeniably catchy – “Only us/ No new members/ It’s our season/ Newvember” – the track stands out not just for its lyrical cleverness but for its compelling message of unity and dedication. The structure of the song is notably innovative, comprising one long verse flanked by two main hooks, making for a total runtime of 2 minutes and 23 seconds. This format, tailored for the short attention spans of today’s audience and the ruthless efficiency of social media algorithms, proves to be a smart choice. Yet, despite its brevity, “Newvember” doesn’t feel incomplete; rather, it presents a progressive, whole listening experience.

The verse thrusts listeners into the aggressive stance of the protagonist, who boasts control over his destiny, whether through force or an overwhelming workload. This assertiveness is matched by the raw energy of the 808 drums, which interlace seamlessly with the lyrics, creating a song that you don’t just hear but feel in your bones. The sound design is meticulously matched with the words, enhancing the track’s immersive quality.

Remarkably, the song’s explicit content is astutely censored, allowing the intended message to shine through without unnecessary vulgarity. This careful consideration ensures the song’s accessibility to a wider audience without diluting its impact.

The music video further elevates “Newvember” with its inventive use of the copy/paste effect, featuring the artist’s image replicated to give the illusion of a crowded ensemble. This creative choice suggests a multitude of theoretical supporters and collaborators, although it’s a clever composition centered around the rapper. It’s a visual metaphor for the song’s message: unity and collective effort.

“Newvember” by Hunnid could very well be a trailblazer for a new era of rap, one that prioritizes lyrical depth over the ostentatious display of wealth and status that has long dominated the hip-hop scene. It’s a refreshing pivot towards substance, showcasing that the genre’s heart beats strongest in the stories it tells and the bonds it celebrates. This song isn’t just a track; it’s a statement, and its reverberations could very well shape the future contours of rap music.

2. “Day N Night” by Stutter

We have had the pleasure of immersing ourselves in the vibrant sounds of “Day n Night” by Stutter, a captivating hybrid rap track that seamlessly melds the worlds of rap and dancehall. Right from the outset, the dancehall influence is unmistakably present, not just in the rhythm but also in the careful selection of instruments that transport listeners straight to the heart of a beach party under the moonlight.

The melodic hook of “Day n Night” is a clear nod to the zenith of dancehall giants like Sean Paul, showcasing Stutter’s ability to sync with the music’s vibe in a harmonious dance rather than fighting against the beat. This effortlessness makes the track not just a song, but an experience, drawing listeners into a world where music and artist are one.

Stutter’s flow throughout the track respects the music’s commanding presence, rapid yet perfectly timed, acting as an auxiliary instrument that complements the beat rather than overshadowing it. This synergy between artist and music is particularly evident in the second verse, which bubbles with energy and delivers general yet intriguing statements like “you check me on the gram/ you heard about me,” and “no, no, you won’t hurt my ego.” The choice to keep the song’s message broad and open to interpretation not only showcases Stutter’s artistic versatility but also positions “Day n Night” as a strong commercial contender.

As the track concludes, it’s clear that “Day n Night” is the quintessential anthem for the spring nights that hint at the summer to come. Stutter has crafted a song that is not just heard but felt, a track that induces an eager anticipation for the freedom and joy of summer festivities. “Day n Night” stands as a testament to the power of hybrid rap to capture and celebrate the essence of the changing seasons, making it a perfect fit for any playlist aiming to set the mood for unforgettable nights.

1. “Just Like This” by Zodi

We’ve had the chance to dive into “Just Like This” by Zodi, a rap track that sets itself apart with its unique blend of sounds and profound lyrical depth. Right from the start, the intro hook draws listeners in with an acoustic curation that echoes the popular indie vibes of bands like The Neighbourhood. The inclusion of an electric guitar not only reinforces this association but also captivates a wide audience with its melodic progression, showcasing Zodi’s ability to bridge genres effortlessly.

Verse 1 introduces us to Zodi’s deep, reflective narrative: “Why am I a stranger to the better things ahead of me?/ Tryna find my way, but I keep letting people get to me.” This immediately positions the artist not just as a performer but as a relatable figure, akin to a friend sharing personal struggles. The mix and mastering of the track are absolutely flawless, further elevating the listening experience.

The hook of the song, “So I keep lying in my bed like/ tryna keep my head back just like this/ All I wanna do is feel right/ I don’t wanna feel like, just like this/ But every time I pick my phone up/ Amount of pressure goes up just like this/ So I keep lying in my bed like/ Tryna keep my head right just like this,” is incredibly catchy. It’s the kind of hook you hear once and find yourself singing along to the second time around, showcasing Zodi’s exceptional songwriting and composing skills.

In the second verse, Zodi shifts focus directly to the listener, employing the second person singular to share his philosophy on life’s ephemerality: one could die tomorrow, and the fear of rest because one rests in death. This narrative resonates deeply, especially among young people navigating the pressures of hustle culture.

We are utterly captivated by “Just Like This” and have proudly placed it at the top of our three-song selection. The track is flawless from start to end, leaving us with nothing to critique and everything to admire. Zodi has delivered a masterpiece that not only showcases his musical talent but also his profound understanding of human emotions and societal pressures.

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