New Music Friday: Jennifer Hudson's Festive Album, Wizkid's Big Collab, and Ari Lennox's Musical Return
Jennifer Hudson is kicking off the holiday season in style with the release of her festive new album. Queen Naija delivers an emotional tribute to her late bodyguard and friend in her heartfelt new track. Ari Lennox makes her musical return with a new single. Wizkid and Brent Faiyaz finally drop their highly anticipated collaboration, and Tiwa Savage turns up the heat with a reggae-inspired hit that brings tropical vibes.
Want to know who else is making waves this New Music Friday? We've got the full list for you below.
Jennifer Hudson - 'The Gift Of Love'
Jennifer Hudson has just made her holiday season debut with the release of her very first holiday album under Interscope Records. Known for her powerhouse vocals and soulful performances, Hudson brings her signature sound to a festive collection of songs that are sure to warm hearts this season. The project features vocals from Common and The Joy.
Wizkid ft. Brent Faiyaz - "Piece Of My Heart"
After weeks of building anticipation, Wizkid has finally dropped his highly anticipated new track featuring Brent Faiyaz. This release marks the first glimpse into what fans can expect from the Nigerian superstar’s upcoming album.
Ari Lennox - "Smoke"
Ari Lennox makes her long-awaited return with her new single "Smoke," a retro-soul track that exudes her signature smooth and sultry sound. Dropping nearly a year after her previous single "Get Close," "Smoke" will be featured on her upcoming third album, though the release date is yet to be announced.
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Mary J. Blige - "You Ain't The Only One"
Mary J. Blige released a powerful new single, "You Ain’t The Only One," just in time for her Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction this weekend. The track, which highlights her iconic blend of soul and raw emotion, is a perfect precursor to her upcoming album, Gratitude. The music video will premiere on MTV and BET on Monday, Oct. 21.
Gunna - “Him All Along”
Gunna dropped a new single and music video, "Him All Along," over a soulful Turbo beat. The track shows off his signature style, mixing reflective verses with an emotionally charged chorus. It’s a balance of uplifting energy and raw introspection, giving fans a glimpse into Gunna’s more pensive side.
Queen Naija - "Missing You"
Queen Naija released a new track "Missing You," which serves as a heartfelt tribute to her late bodyguard and close friend, "Beast." The song is a touching dedication to anyone who's experienced the pain of losing someone special, blending her soulful voice with deep emotion.
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Tiwa Savage - "Forgiveness"
After teasing fans on social media, Tiwa Savage has officially dropped her highly anticipated new single, "Forgiveness." The track showcases her soulful vocals and irresistible rhythm, making it a standout addition to her already impressive discography. This release marks the first glimpse of her upcoming 2025 album, her first full-length project since Celia in 2020.
Known for her signature blend of Afrobeats, R&B, and Afropop, Tiwa takes a fresh approach with "Forgiveness," blending smooth R&B undertones with her dynamic vocals. Co-written by Muni Long and Grammy-winning songwriter Theron Thomas, the song continues Tiwa's evolution as she explores new musical territory, further solidifying her status as a genre-bending artist.
Bnxn ft. Rema - "Fi Kan We Kan"
A collaboration we never saw coming but definitely needed—Bnxn and Rema have teamed up for the first time on their brand new single, "Fi Kan We Kan." This track brings an irresistible vibe, blending themes of perseverance and unity, making it the perfect anthem for celebration. At its core, the song is about honoring your commitments and paying what’s due. The accompanying music video brings the track to life.
Jaden - '2024: A Case Study of the Long Term Effects of Young Love'
Jaden released his new EP 2024: A Case Study Of The Long Term Effects Of Young Love, a concise 4-track project that marks his fourth studio release. The EP comes just over four years after the debut of CTV3: Cool Tape Vol. 3, showcasing Jaden's growth as a multifaceted artist. With this project, he dives deep into the emotional complexities of young love, blending introspective lyrics with his signature sound.
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Jean Dawson - 'Glimmer of Gold'
Jean Dawson just dropped his highly anticipated new album, Glimmer Of God, a 15-track project featuring collaborations with Lil Yachty and BONES. Described as his most honest and deeply riveting work yet, the album draws inspiration from iconic influences like Modest Mouse, Prince, Stevie Wonder, and Zapp with Roger Troutman.
Big Boogie - 'ETHER'
Big Boogie just dropped his highly anticipated mixtape ETHER, featuring a powerhouse lineup of guest appearances, including YTB Fatt, 42 Dugg, Lakeyah, Moneybagg Yo, and GloRilla.
Kemar Highcon - "1942"
Dancehall artist Kemar Highcon is back with another dance floor anthem. If you're looking for a track to keep the vibe going all year, "1942" is the one. It’s the ultimate party song, made for everyone who loves to celebrate.
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Moeisbetter and AyoTheProducer - 'MOELANDO'
Rising hip-hop artist Moeisbetter and Grammy-winning producer AyoTheProducer officially dropped their collaborative album, MOELANDO. This project perfectly blends Moeisbetter's unique vocal delivery with Ayo’s top-tier production, offering a fresh take on Orlando's vibrant music scene. Rooted in their shared experiences, MOELANDO reflects their personal and professional growth, touching on everything from navigating relationships to embracing fatherhood. The album is a true testament to their journey, capturing both their evolution and the innovative sounds that define their hometown.
Fantastic Negrito - 'Son of a Broken Man'
Fantastic Negrito's new album, Son of a Broken Man, is his most personal work yet, delving into the complex themes of family, deception, and the ways we hide our true selves. At the heart of the album is the raw, emotional conflict between father and son, inspired by Negrito's own experience of being misled by his father about his identity and heritage. Through soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics, the 14-track project captures the struggle of confronting these deep, painful truths while trying to find a sense of self.
Alemeda - 'FK IT (Unplugged)'
Alt-pop newcomer Alemeda has been making waves with her debut EP, FK IT, and now she’s back with something fresh—an acoustic version. Stripping down the tracks, this new release showcases her raw talent and brings a whole new vibe to the music that’s already been buzzing.
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Nija - "Unruly"
Nija is back with a brand new single, "Unruly," marking her first release since her 2022 debut album, Don’t Say I Didn’t Warn You. The track is a bold introduction to her upcoming R&B and hip-hop fusion project, and it shows off her evolution as both an artist and a producer. Now independent and carving her own path, "Unruly" signals the start of an exciting new chapter in her career—one that brings her back to her roots while pushing boundaries in her sound.
Ashwin - “Got It”
Detroit rapper and producer Ashwin is back with his latest single, "Got It," now available on all streaming platforms. This sultry, laid-back track oozes confidence and charm, blending Ashwin’s smooth flow with a mellow beat that’s perfect for late-night vibes. With a swaggering message aimed at uplifting women, he lets them know that whatever they want, you got it.