Mar. 13, 2026 at 3:19pm
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This week’s New Music Friday features new releases from West Coast rapper YG, Chicago drill pioneer Chief Keef, and Louisville superstar Jack Harlow. YG returns with the hard-hitting single “State of Emergency,” Chief Keef teams up with rising artist Ian on “Video Shoot,” and Harlow celebrates his 28th birthday by dropping his fourth studio album “Monica,” which features a more introspective and soulful sound.
Why it matters
These new releases from established and up-and-coming artists demonstrate the continued evolution and diversity of the hip-hop genre. The tracks showcase the artists’ creative growth and ability to connect with fans through a range of styles, from YG’s gritty street bars to Harlow’s expansive lyrical work.
The details
YG’s “State of Emergency” finds the Compton rapper firing back at critics over a tense, hard-hitting beat, reminding listeners of his street-rap roots. Chief Keef’s “Video Shoot” collaboration with Ian blends Keef’s raw energy with a fresh dynamic, delivering new drill-leaning heat. Meanwhile, Harlow’s “Monica” album leans into smoother, soulful vibes and showcases his lyrical growth, featuring contributions from vocalists like Ravyn Lenae and pianist Robert Glasper.
- YG’s “State of Emergency” was released on Friday, March 13, 2026.
- Chief Keef’s “Video Shoot” single arrives ahead of his forthcoming “Skeletor” project, set for March 27, 2026.
- Jack Harlow’s “Monica” album was released on his 28th birthday.
The players
YG
A West Coast rapper from Compton, California, known for his gritty street-rap style and decade-long career.
Chief Keef
A pioneering Chicago drill rapper who continues to release new music and collaborate with up-and-coming artists.
Jack Harlow
A Louisville, Kentucky-based superstar who has showcased artistic growth and evolution on his fourth studio album “Monica.”
Ian
An up-and-coming artist who collaborated with Chief Keef on the single “Video Shoot.”
Ravyn Lenae
A vocalist who contributed to Jack Harlow’s “Monica” album.
The takeaway
This week’s New Music Friday showcases the continued evolution and diversity of the hip-hop genre, with established artists like YG and Chief Keef delivering fresh takes on their signature styles, while rising star Jack Harlow expands his sound and lyrical depth on his new album. These releases demonstrate the genre’s ability to continuously reinvent itself and connect with fans through a range of creative expressions.
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source nationaltoday.com ’
