VIBE’s Daily Additions to the ‘Pod
1. Kendrick Lamar – “Backseat Freestyle”
We heard this one at Kendrick’s album listening session a while back, but hearing it now without all the outside distractions gives us a clearer example of just how dope this album will be. Hit-Boy went off on this beat, and K. Dot matched that excitement with equal aggression. Simply put, make sure you run, swim, and fly to go cop good kid, m.A.A.d. city when it drops next week.
2. R. Kelly – “When a Man Lies”
So it looks like we’re getting “Black Sinatra” Kellz on this one. His voice on “When a Man Lies” is gold—which, regardless of the songs themselves, really hasn’t changed since 12 Play or R. When R. Kelly is on his grown man steez, he’s in the exact place that he needs to be, both vocally and image-wise. We’re definitely a fan of this one.
3. JP Beats (feat. Busta Rhymes, Canibus, Cappadonna & Block McCloud) – “CB4”
With all the 90s hip-hop all-stars making appearances on this track, it definitely has a throwback feel to it. That isn’t a bad thing however. “CB4” comes off sounding more “nostalgic” as opposed to “old.”
4. Keyshia Cole – “Trust And Believe”
Keyshia once again sings for all the broken hearts out there with this soulful ballad. This one is less of the “thugged-out songstress” Keyshia that we’re used to, & more of a “singing-on-satin-bedsheets-with-a-box-of-Kleenex” songbird. We like her either way, but there’s nothing wrong with revealing your softer side. Get ’em Keysh.
5. Bobby V (feat. Future) – “Tipsey Love”
This is the kind of song that you’d predict Bobby Valentino to record. We’re not sure if that’s a good or bad thing yet.
6. The Narcicyst – “Blame The Label (Ghida Fakhry)”
It’s hip-hop meets Bhangra! We like the clash of musical cultures on this one. Definitely give this eclectic tune a listen.