America's problems do not end at racism. Sexism, and the blatant degradation of women, is also a demon our people must fight. With that being said, if there is anyone in the underground hip-hop scene making it clear that they will indeed wage this war on behalf of women, it is New York rapper, 8.9.3.7th. Like a sword and shield, he wields rhymes and melodies on his latest single “Not Fair”, and rushes into battle. 

Backed by a sensual, yet powerful trap instrumental, blooming with a beautiful sample of Alicia Keys's 2009 “Un-thinkable (I'm Ready)”, the Queens native dedicates this entire track to ladies of the night. It is an anthem for exotic dancers, bartenders, adult-film actresses, and any other woman whose profession is unjustly frowned upon. “And it's Not Fair--” 8.9.3.7th croons on the chorus on the track, “--how they be judging you, girl / You out here running the world / Taking care of your business”. With those few bars alone, he justifies these women's positions. They are simply doing what they need to to make end's meet; and should be praised, not pejorated, for their ambition and excellence. As much as this track could be played at home, it would truly bump in the club scene; where the women it speaks to can embrace it and be inspired by 8.9.3.7th's recurring reminder “Ballers ball, and Haters hate”.



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"Understand Me" is the latest single from Orlando, Florida artist Lani Baby. Lani takes us through an introspective trip into his mind where he explores themes from self-doubt to deceit, but he uses it to fuel his creativity and the track ends up feeling very triumphant. The misunderstood rapper chose the perfect instrumental to get these bars off with an angelic sample that really sets the tone for the sentiment of the track. As far as flow, cadence, delivery, pocket, mechanics, and everything that consists of a rappers toolbox, Loni has it all. This kid is 19-years-old with all the ability and potential you can ask for. Orlando is a underrepresented city in hip-hop, but with Miami having a big moment right now, it will soon be time for northern Florida to take over, and Lani Baby could lead the pack. Check out "Understand Me" below and check out Lani.Baby407 on Soundcloud for more.


Young Flizo and Doochie Bass flip the Nas and AZ classic "How Ya Livin'" and execute it flawlessly. The duo out Camden, New Jersey go back and forth addressing the realities of living on their block. Camden is known for its violence and crime stricken neighborhoods which could make for some pretty grimy and gritty content, but the instrumental on "How Ya Livin'" is uplifting and feel-good giving it a unique energy. It has been 20 years since the original version of "How Ya Livin'" came out and you can notice the difference when topics like gentrification and mumble rap start to get addressed on the 2018 version. However, Flizo and Doochie stick to their core and deliver on a real hip-hop track that reminds us that lyricism is alive and well. "How Ya Livin'" is really a breath of fresh air. Check it out below.



Rappin Queen is a 23-year-old versatile music industry threat coming out of Houston, Texas with many talents ranging from engineering, producing, and songwriting. This time she gets help from K.E.L. on the microphone and The Beat Plug on the instrumental for "Like You Mine" her hypnotic and seductive new single. "Like You Mine" is also packaged with a video shot by Blase' Santana Films who perfectly captures the trippy nature of this record with equally psychedelic-inspired visuals. This thing is about as sexual and edgy as it gets and Rappin Queen is clearly the star of the show, check it out below.


D1 is a rapper/producer hybrid out of Chicago, Illinois. On his latest effort "Better Days" D1 shows off all of his talents as he makes the beat, writes the bars, and performs it all to a tee. Chicago is most known for the drill-music sound but "Better Days" doesn't follow that sonic structure. The instrumental on "Better Days" is faster than what we are normally used to out of Chicago and D1 has a more bouncy cadence that relies more on steady flow and pocket rather than adlibs and drum leads. D1 has clearly experienced personal obstacles and had people against him, but now he is triumphantly looking forward to better days, listen below and look for more coming from D1 in the near future.




With all of the beef and hoopla surrounding Hip Hop at the current moment, how about a song for the brothers? Well, if you have been looking for that one uplifting the (Black) man, lucky for you, we've got it. "Negus" yes I said Negus, is the latest single from incredible vocalist, Mahogany Soul. The word Negus is of Ethiopian origin which translates to Black Royalty, King, Ruler, Supreme. The Los Angeles Songstress kicks game to the brothers encouraging elevation and transformation. Strong lyrics such as "when Niggas turn to Gods, when Negus turn to Gods, it 's amazing" explains her premise very clearly. Mahogany Soul creates music that is empowering and light on the soul. Her musical influence 90's and early 2000's Hip Hop and Soul. Negus has a great mellow vibe and reminds me of a Hip Hop Soul Angie Stone or Lauryn Hill type of song. Keep your eyes open for Mahogany's first EP "Evolve-Lution" this summer. If Negus is any indication of what's to come, we should be expecting great things.


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 Rising artist, King Phannum delivers a song that many people of today can definitely relate to with new banger “Maybe Next Time”. A relationship battle, “telling what it is” and hoping this will enable a more positive approach if they get back together. It has a unique touch which showcases the strength of communication and how if don’t efficiently, it can provide the feedback and results needed. The song is laid out on an interesting beat that easily attracts and reaches its listeners in an amazing way. Relationships are like the “hit” of today especially through social media, and persons are always seeking a way to resolve issues they may be faced with. “Maybe Next Time” highlights powerful tips on how making the promise of changing for the better with practical sacrifice may eventually work to your favor. King Phannum is a hip hop recording artist born and raised in Baltimore and one who has a strong motivation to contribute his strength to help growing the music industry. Follow his growing movement today!


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