Traditionally, the music industry follows a pattern of winding down as the year draws to a close. Major labels often slow their promotional efforts, radio stations switch to holiday tunes, and many artists retreat from the limelight. While it’s understandable that people across various sectors deserve a break, the question arises: does the music industry’s hibernation align with the season’s spirit?
By recognizing the potential for less competition and hungry audiences, artists can capitalize on the festive spirit, creating a new tradition that changes how music is consumed. Families and friends gather, creating an environment conducive to shared experiences and discoveries. Plus, someone has to say it, by the time the holidays come around, EVERYONE is pretty sick of Christmas music.
In the spirit of your 2024 holiday playlist, here are five must-listen new drops every hip-hop head should be spinning during this festive time.
5.) Bun B x Statik Selektah: Trillstatik 3
https://statikselekt.bandcamp.com/album/trillstatik-3
The Trillstatik series is becoming a mid-December tradition like no other. Legends Statik and Bun B collide once again with a plethora of top-shelf features. As exciting as the music itself is the recording sessions, which take place in just one night in the Lower East Side. This year’s edition sees guest appearances from the likes of Benny The Butcher, Method Man, CJ Fly, Paul Wall, Kota the Friend, Talib Kweli, and Smoke DZA. And of course, dope bars and beats from the project’s originators.
4.) Conway the Machine x Wun Two: Palermo
Conway the Machine and Wun Two have joined forces with a groundbreaking new project that seamlessly blends Conway’s gritty lyricism with Wun’s signature lo-fi, atmospheric beats. The collaboration introduces a fusion of raw storytelling and captivating production. Standout tracks include Cold Dish and Gaspare.
3.) Malik Elijah: God Body
Malik Elijah delivers a self-assured treat with his latest single God Body. The track is yet another example of Elijah’s lyrical prowess, and dope flow, set against a heavy-hitting production by frequent Dreamville collaborator Andrew Regis. As always, Elijah’s work is emphasized by clever punchlines and tactical layering. With each new drop, Malik Elijah shows incredible artistic growth and near-limitless potential.
2.) Kota the Friend: Oregon
Oregon is a soulful journey through life’s choices and the pursuit of happiness. Verses vividly narrate a conversation between the artist and an elderly man on the Oregon Coast. It captures the essence of simple living and the wisdom that comes with experience. The lyrics beautifully convey the contrast between the fast-paced urban life and the serene simplicity of a small town, offering reflective insights into the choices we make and their impact on our well-being. The poignant final line “Before you hit the road, make sure that what you covet is better than what you own” encapsulates the song’s central theme of finding contentment in life’s journey.
1.) Cookin Soul: Xmas Massacre
Christmas would for sure be a Silent Night in our household if it weren’t for the producer-DJ duo of Bg Size and Zock. The pair have been remixing hip-hop classics to jazzy Christmas renditions for years with absolute class. The newest iteration focuses on 50, with insane flips that will have old heads and young bucks vibing alike!
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