December Hip-Hop and R&B Releases: A Packed Week of New Music
December may not traditionally be known for heavy album drops, but this week’s new music releases prove that Hip-Hop and R&B are not taking a break. From big-name returns to posthumous releases, artists continue to deliver compelling projects. Whether you’re into hard-hitting rap or smooth R&B, here’s a look at the standout singles and albums dropping this week.
New Albums This Week
NBA YoungBoy — I Just Got A Lot On My Shoulders
Label: Never Broke Again / Motown Records
Production: BNYX, No ID, OG Parker, DRoc, Str8cash
NBA YoungBoy makes a comeback with his first full-length album of 2024. I Just Got A Lot On My Shoulders offers a more mature perspective from the usually prolific rapper. With themes focused on the pressures of fame and responsibility, this album showcases YoungBoy’s growth and introspective side, making it a standout release.
Smino — Maybe In Nirvana
Label: Zero Fatigue Records
Production: Kenny Beats, Monte Booker, Thundercat, Sango, Phoelix
Smino’s latest album, recorded in 2020, is finally here. Maybe In Nirvana features collaborations with Bun B, Thundercat, and Ravyn Lenae. With a mix of rap, R&B, and soul, Smino’s signature sound remains fresh and creative, delivering one of his most invigorating projects yet. The album’s delayed release has only added to the excitement, showcasing Smino’s artistic journey during a pivotal moment in his career.
Bun B & Statik Selektah — Trillstatik 4
Label: Showoff Records
Production: Statik Selektah
The fourth installment in the Trillstatik series sees Bun B and Statik Selektah join forces once again. Recorded live on Twitch, Trillstatik 4 brings together a roster of guest artists like Westside Gunn, Conway The Machine, and Maxo Kream. The album captures the collaborative spirit between East Coast and Southern Hip-Hop, making it a must-listen for fans of both coasts.
Lil Tjay — Farewell
Label: Columbia Records
Production: ChopSquad DJ, TNT, Way9, Armas, Savant
Lil Tjay drops a surprise EP with Farewell, showcasing his lyrical prowess and versatility. This eight-track project includes collaborations with Polo G, NLE Choppa, and G Herbo. Farewell delivers a mix of street anthems and introspective tracks, proving that Lil Tjay is back at the top of his game.
Drakeo The Ruler — The Undisputed Truth
Label: Stinc Team
Though Drakeo The Ruler was tragically murdered in 2021, his legacy continues to live on through The Undisputed Truth. Featuring artists like 03 Greedo, Ralfy The Plug, and Icewear Vezzo, this posthumous album is a rare example of a project that lives up to the artist’s legacy, offering an authentic representation of Drakeo’s style and vision.
Rich Amiri — War Ready
Label: Internet Money Records / 10K Projects
Rich Amiri’s War Ready mixes street anthems with introspective tracks, showcasing the artist’s growth. Produced by Matt Cohn, Noah Mejia, and others, the album offers a glimpse into Amiri’s raw energy and emotional depth, making it one of his most exciting releases yet.
Khalid — Sincere (Deluxe)
Label: RCA Records / Right Hand Music Group
Khalid’s Sincere deluxe edition expands on the original album with bonus tracks and collaborations with Normani and Chloe Bailey. The deluxe version highlights Khalid’s soothing vocals and the laid-back R&B sound his fans know and love, delivering even more of the chill vibes that made his original release a hit.
Roy Woods — Rolling Stone
Label: OVO Sound / Santa Anna Label Group
Roy Woods returns with Rolling Stone, a deep dive into his emotional and melodic range. The album features collaborations with 03 Greedo and blends smooth R&B with a mix of introspective and upbeat tracks. Rolling Stone brings a fresh vibe to the OVO Sound catalog, showcasing Woods’ evolution as an artist.
New Singles This Week
Lil Baby — “Gravy Train”
Lil Baby’s latest single, “Gravy Train,” offers a fresh perspective on the rapper’s signature sound. With its smooth flow and compelling beats, the track sees Lil Baby reflecting on his journey in the rap game while keeping the energy high.
Roddy Ricch — “Life Goes On”
Roddy Ricch’s “Life Goes On” is a deep, introspective track that explores the struggles of fame and personal growth. With poignant lyrics and a captivating beat, this single showcases Ricch’s emotional vulnerability and lyrical prowess.
Quavo — “Move On”
Quavo’s “Move On” is a reflective single that touches on themes of resilience and growth. Known for his melodic flow, Quavo delivers a track that balances emotional depth with catchy rhythms.
Other Notable Releases
- Lakeyah — Keymix III (Label: CBE Records)
- Nettspend — BAD ASS FCKING KID (Label: Nettspend / Grade A Productions / Interscope Records)*
- Termanology & Tek — Teknology (Label: ST. Records / Perfect Time Music Group)
This week’s new music releases provide an impressive array of albums and singles that showcase the ever-evolving landscape of Hip-Hop and R&B. From NBA YoungBoy’s introspective album to Smino’s long-awaited Maybe In Nirvana, there’s no shortage of excitement for fans. Add in surprise EPs from Lil Tjay and Rich Amiri, and it’s clear that December is far from slowing down in terms of musical innovation. Whether you’re into hard-hitting rap, soulful R&B, or something in between, there’s a track or album that’s bound to resonate with you.
