Surprise collaborations, breezy kiss-offs, and pure romance. This week’s new music roundup is meant for head nods on a sunny afternoon. 

While signer songwriters like UMI and Rachel Chinouriri shared vibey new tunes, rap stars Nas and DJ Premier have teamed up for a surprise collaboration thirty years in the making. 

Meanwhile, Lucky Daye’s newest single finds him head over heels in love with a woman, a warm and romantic track for all the ladies. And New Zealand musician 9lives smashes genres together for an ear-catching dance track that might get you moving.

Lastly, Joy Oladokun gets contemplative after the death of a friend, and her folky new track is a touching exploration of grief and religion.

Press play and see where the journey takes you. And be sure to save a few for your playlist. 

Define My Name - Nas, DJ Premier

In celebration of the 30th anniversary of Nas’s iconic Illmatic album, the rap icon teamed up with DJ Premier – and not just on this single. The two have announced an unnamed collaborative album coming later this year. Their new single, “Define My Name,” is just the beginning. “I got the rhymes, you got the beats,” Nas raps to DJ Premiere on the track.

wherever u r - UMI, V, Nature

V of the K-pop mega-group BTS and Nature are featured in the latest single from bedroom R&B singer-songwriter UMI. The romantic remix demands a head nod to the beat and a knowledge of your location so they can snuggle up close.

HERicane - Lucky Daye

R&B sensation Lucky Daye’s breezy new single isn’t about having sex – it’s about making love. “Let it rain, baby, rain,” he sings as we swoon. “Till we slide into the heart of hurricane.”

It Is What It Is - Rachel Chinouriri

British singer-songwriter Rachel Chinouriri has had quite the year, and just weeks ahead of the release of her debut album, she’s given fans a new single. Inspired by rap and slam poetry, Chinouriri slams an ex mucking her about over a breezy guitar riff and in an irresistible earworm in the chorus.

Canada - 9lives, jnhygs

Hip-hop meets hyper pop in New Zealand artist 9lives’ ethereal new single, “Canada” featuring experimental dance artist jnhygs.

Questions, Chaos, & Faith - Joy Oladokun

Joy Oladokun is a folk singer-songwriter who should absolutely be on your radar. Think Tracy Chapman meets Phoebe Bridgers with a breathtaking voice and unique perspective on love and faith. Her newest single, “Questions, Chaos, & Faith,” is an existential epic meant to be played while you stare up at the ceiling, contemplating life’s tragedies and beauty.

Listen to the playlist here, and look out for next week’s playlist.