New Music Friday (May 15): Drake, Future, Molly Santana, GIVĒON, Victoria Monét, BNYX, Jorja Smith, & TiaCorine

I could write a whole essay or two about Drake alone, and at some point I probably will, but here’s who caught my ears, eyes, and heart this week.

Drake, Future, Molly Santana – “Ran to Atlanta”

Drake is BACK. I stayed up all night in anticipation as did all Aubrey’s Angels for his highly anticipated album ICEMAN, but before that I tuned in at 9:45PM Eastern sharp for Episode 4, the final installment of his livestream series. Little did I know the entire visual album would be streamed.

Few things caught me by surprise more than Future (who famously kicked off one of the greatest rap beefs of all time alongside Kendrick Lamar) being on the project along with one of my favorite underground artists, Molly Santana. Newly independent, she held her against two GOATs. Make sure to run up not only this album but the other two he dropped today, MAID OF HONOUR and HABIBTI (which, when assembled accordingly, spell out HIM. It’s only right).

GIVĒON – “JEZEBEL”

Please don’t tell me R&B is dead as long as GIVĒON is alive, ok? The visual to “JEZEBEL” is as crispy as his vocals, though I do wonder if any woman would appreciate being called that, even by as handsome a man as GIVĒON. This is the kind of song that would come to life beautifully at Blue Note, so let’s hope he’s hitting the stage with it soon.

Victoria Monét – “Let Me (Live Rendition)”

Oh don’t mind me, I’m just here dropping off Victoria Monét looking and sounding the most ethereal she ever has. They say goddesses are ancient mythology, but experiencing “Let Me (Live Rendition)” has me thinking otherwise. I love a smooth, dreamy lovergirl record. I’m not enamored with anyone at the moment, but something tells me if I run this back enough times, I can manifest more than a spring fling.

Jorja – “What’s Done Is Done”

As soon as “[INAUDIBLE: Man begging for forgiveness]” popped up on the screen, I already knew what kind of time Jorja Smith was on. I’m not typically a garage girl when it comes to music, but if it’s Jorja singing it, I’m bound to tune in and enjoy. “What’s Done Is Done” will certainly remain in my rotation this summer, not only to dance to but as a reminder to put up with no s***.

TiaCorine – “LA LA LA”

Do you know what culo means in English? Look it up real quick (though, upon watching the visualizer, it should become obvious hehe). One thing I’ll always appreciate about TiaCorine is her versatility. She easily transitions from barred up songs to bops. “Culo” is in the latter category. DJs, if you’re looking for a run record to spin this summer, this is for you.

Baby Rose – “But, Nvm”

If you’ve noticed, throughout all my selections this week, live instrumentation and pristine vocals take center stage. With Baby Rose, it’s no different. You can feel the longing in her voice due to her unique timbre that isn’t quite present in the voices of other soulful vocalists. The all too honest and close to home “But, Nvm” will make you reconsider texting back your ex or rekindling that situationship. I discovered this song by her posting a snippet on Threads (thanks, algo) and I’m oh so glad I did.

James Savage – “Say Sumn”

If a PINE falls in the forrest , but no one is around to hear it, does it make a sound? Ok that joke doesn’t really quite land, but the latest offering by R&B crooner James Savage certainly does. I’m really glad artists do this thing where they release singles and visuals to accompany releases because otherwise I would’ve had thee hardest time picking my favorite song of his to showcase to you. The jazzy rising hook of “Say Sumn” had me dancing in my seat and then dancing on my feet.

Mr. Savage’s music has a rich minimalism to it that’s difficult to master so early in one’s career. It leaves you feeling satiated, yet wanting more at the same time and then the next thing you know, hours have gone by and the music is still playing. Thank you, Jack Harlow, for putting him on my radar — now I have three Louisville natives to call my favorites.