Best New Music This Week: Jhené Aiko, Tinashe and More
September 11 marks a rotation of audio drops across pop, rap, and R&B, anchored by Jhené Aiko’s first full-length album in six years, Westside Whimsy, alongside new projects from EST Gee, Rio Da Yung OG, and Ro$ama.
Jhené Aiko Leads R&B Returns With Westside Whimsy
The album leans into dreamy, intimate R&B while celebrating Los Angeles roots. Kendrick Lamar reunites with Aiko on the track “So Good,” while Ab-Soul, Larry June, Tyga, and OHMA make guest appearances.
The extensive tracklist immediately sparked fan speculation across social media regarding the inspirations behind specific songs, with many listeners pointing toward Big Sean. Aiko quickly shut down those rumors.
Street Rap Anchors New Releases From EST Gee and Rio Da Yung OG
Alongside the R&B spotlight, street rap delivers material for the fall calendar. Louisville rapper EST Gee drops a 17-track project titled Bigger Than The Devil. According to Remixd Magazine, the album stays rooted in gritty storytelling and matter-of-fact delivery, though it introduces a layer of reflection regarding survival, loyalty, and lifestyle changes. YFN Lucci, Skrt, and members of the EST circle feature on the tracklist.
Concurrently, Rio Da Yung OG maintains active momentum with his new release, The World Is Yours. The project features appearances from Veeze, Trippie Redd, Rylo Rodriguez, Tierra Whack, and Lil Yachty. True to form, the project delivers unfiltered delivery and unpolished comedic bars.
Regional Breakouts Expand the September 11 Calendar
East Texas rap adds a debut project to the New Music Friday lineup with Ro$ama’s 20-track album, My Forte. Pulling from family experiences and regional ambition, the album includes features from BigXthaPlug and Monaleo, while the visual for “E.T.” features appearances from Ro$ama’s mother and twin daughters as noted by Remixd Magazine. Meanwhile, Atlanta-based artist 414JungleBaby builds his catalog with the release of his new EP, Everybody Watching, driven by singles like “Movie” and the visualizer for “I’m Him.”
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