New Music Friday: Beyoncé, IDK, Leon Bridges Drop Fresh Bangers
It’s not your average New Music Friday when Beyoncé drops an album.
Alongside new releases from IDK, Big Sean, Doechii and JT, Leon Bridges, and Joey Bada$$, Queen Bey has welcomed fans to the rodeo chitlin circuit with her 27-track album honoring her country and southern roots. Cowboy Carter traverses genre and time and features artists like Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Miley Cyrus, and Post Malone alongside Shaboozey, Willie Jones, Linda Martell, and Tanner Adell. Beyoncé even covers the classic Beatles’ track “Blackbird” and fires a warning shot in her take on Parton’s “Jolene.”
Prepare yourselves, and add a few of these brand-new tracks to your playlist.
Denim - IDK, Joey Bada$$
“Sittin' on cloud nine, but it's really my couch,” hip-hop star IDK begins on his reflective new rap track alongside Joey Bada$$. The two performed the song live on From The Block Performance in NYC, Bada$$’s hometown.
It Was Always You (Siempre Fuiste Tu) - Carin Leon, Leon Bridges
Crooner Leon Bridges joins Mexican singer Carin Leon for this breezy diss track. It’s a healing moment when the two realize that their heartbreak isn’t their own fault, but their exes. “I finally see/there was nothing wrong with me/it was always you.”
American High - Isaac Dunbar
Pop singer Isaac Dunbar has found freedom on the dancefloor in this shimmery rock ballad reminiscent of bands like Queen and Journey. “I’m man enough to be a party girl and dance all night,” the 21-year-old sings.
Alter Ego - Doechii, JT
“Now I’m finna give y’all another hit.” Doechii and JT just delivered a certified club banger in “Alter Ego.” Doechii floats her bars over a house-inspired beat that escalates into a shouty chorus, while JT brings her signature City Girls sound to her brash verse.
Precision - Big Sean
Hip-hop star Big Sean isn’t afraid to take aim and shoot his shot in his return single, “Precision.” Sean drops bar after bar in rapid succession, making this song one of the best releases of the month.
Spaghetti - Beyoncé, Linda Martell, Shaboozey
Rising country artist Shaboozey and country icon Linda Martell are featured on Beyoncé’s chaotic, rap-heavy twelfth track on Cowboy Carter, highlighting hip-hop’s place in Texas’ country culture. “Genres are a funny little concept, aren’t they?” Martell begins the track. “Some may feel confined,” but Bey’s breaking free.
