GRUNGECAKE

Category: Music Reviews

  • Watch Memphis star rapper Key Glock explore the streets of Tokyo for his latest single ‘3AM in ToKEYo’

    The Paper Route rapper has three gold albums, seven gold singles and eight platinum records.

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    Taking his talents to Tokyo, Japan, and shooting the official music video for his latest single, ‘3AM in ToKEYo’, Memphis star Key Glock raps his self-made excursion, bare chest women flashing him at one of his shows and a harsh truth about his former lovers expressing covetousness for losing their chances to be in his life. Experience the visual, showing the young artist on the streets of Shibuya. Watch until the end to hear the banter with a pedestrian, sarcastically stating Key Glock is the next best thing and eventually telling him to fuck off. The single is from his fourth forthcoming full-length album, ‘Glockaveli’. It’s coming soon. We don’t know any further details.

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    We’re nearly eight years removed from his breakout mixtape, ‘Glock Season’, but we’re interested in seeing how his 2025 pans out based on the tone of the pitch email we received on his behalf.

    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vi2NMr8W38&h=315]

  • Watch Travis Scott’s latest music video ‘4X4’

    For the Gabriel Moses treatment, Travis Scott gets creative from its beginning by recreating the classic Columbia studio logo — replacing the “Columbia Lady” with a Black woman (Alek Wek, 47, South Sudanese-British) and using his logo instead of theirs (“Columbia”).

    Eight days ago, American superstar rapper and rager Travis Scott released a celebratory music video for his latest track, ‘4X4’. The video presents a surreal and chaotic vision of Houston, Texas, featuring intense scenes such as oversised car chases on highways, an electrifying rodeo, and the American rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer dominating a WWE ring. The city itself becomes a character, reflecting the energy of the track. The music video has been praised for its cinematic quality and dynamic visuals, which complement the high-energy performance by the globally recognised artist. Check out the video below to see the global superstar in his element as he performs the song with an entire band. Tay Keith produced the track and supermodel Alek Wek appears in the picture twice, showcasing her sun-kissed skin.

    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LkIS4DpRPHY&h=315]

  • Watch Ugandan singer Lamu’s video for ‘Original’

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    A month ago, Ugandan singer Lamu shared the official music video for ‘Original’. The young women sing and dance, wearing dresses, beads, Bantu knots, and braids to fetch water. Next, she goes to make a meal for her man, and something odd happens at the end. Watch the visual for the Melanin Boy and Artin Pro-produced track below to see what happens. Larry Hector directed the fun, light-hearted video about lovers in Kampala, Uganda, East Africa.

    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=skGWnZZi8so&h=315]

    Also, the African artist Lamu released an official performance video for ‘Mpola’ four months ago.

    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0eBn1XSZ8Cg&h=315]

  • Stream SAINt JHN’s new Tay Keith-produced single ‘Poppin’

    May the God of Abraham make other women as secure as the woman who inspired this song.

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    Recently, Brooklyn-bred genre-defying Guyanese-American rapper-singer stylish rapper and singer SAINt JHN (pronounced “Saint John”) released a catchy new song about meeting an emotionally intelligent woman from the valley who doesn’t seem bothered by his relations with other women. From the onslaught, the eclectic creative raps about what he enjoys when in bed and doesn’t show any signs of weakness or hypocrisy to the calibre of women he tends to keep around. Selfishly, I wanted to hear more rage in his ad-libs and moments where he projected his vocals like he does on ‘Body On Me’ or any of his other masterpieces, but this will do. Stream the vivacious Tay Keith-produced track below to hear what’s on his mind these days. We are anticipating the arrival of his next album, ‘Festival Season’.

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    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0-SjSQPtVc&h=315]

    Two days ago, From the Block released his performance video for the song, which has received mixed reviews online. Watch it below to see how fresh his outfit is.

    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kixRYIVUm6A&h=315]

  • East London’s rising star TeeZandos shares official visual for ‘Old Me’: Watch

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    Standing out front on Turnham Road in London, TeeZandos, dubbed the “Princess of Drill”, the reflective piece covers a wide array of topics (her experiences in the bando, making someone shook to come to the hood, not knowing how the fake shit feels and looking in the mirror and seeing authenticity), including the phoney people in her life. As expressed through her Spotify profile, the Homerton, East London artist “burst onto the scene in 2019 with her viral hit, ‘Need Focus’”. Although the ‘Artist’ rapper had an alarming dark moment, recently making fans and others worry about her mental health, she seems to be back in good spirits and showcasing more of her femininity in ‘Old Me’.

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    Did you miss out on the Instagram Stories posts? You could read them for yourselves on Reddit. In short, the artist seemed to have survivor’s guilt and said that when she prayed to Satan, she had happiness and everything she wanted.

    Adding that when she prays to God, she doesn’t get anything. I could imagine her God-fearing fans disagreeing with her statements and probably stopped supporting her. However, I have shown grace to many artists who fight their many battles, and I feel, at least, we have someone who seems to be open and honest about dabbling in all deities — and it might be why God doesn’t respond how she hopes. Based on what I’ve come to learn about the God of all gods, He is a jealous God; she seems to be playing a blasphemous game. I don’t know her personally, but hopefully, it isn’t all for engagement and entertainment purposes.

    Before concluding her posts, she also talked negatively about herself, asking her fans to forget she exists because “rap failed, trap failed, [and] life failed.” Signing out with an action item, asking her followers to remove her from their following list.

    If it is a plea for help, I hope she can get through what she’s going through peacefully and that the young woman allows herself to be patient — with herself and others around her.

    Check out the music video below to see how the 2024 MOBO Awards nominee cleans up and, most importantly, hear her ferociously raw bars.

    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_v0RDJGCgq0&h=315]

  • Listen to Chloe Cloud’s new single ‘My Heart Has Found A Home’

    Emerging indie-pop sensation Chloe Cloud has once again graced us with her heartfelt artistry in her latest single, ‘My Heart Has Found a Home.’

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    Released on January 8, this soul-stirring track dives deep into the euphoria and warmth of finding a place where love feels safe and true.

    With its ethereal melodies, intimate lyrics, and Chloe’s signature soft yet powerful vocals, ‘My Heart Has Found a Home’cHLOE cLOUDS resonates with listeners on an emotional level. The track blends dreamy pop elements with acoustic undertones, showcasing Chloe’s growth as a songwriter and her knack for crafting tunes that linger in the heart long after the music stops.

    Fans have quickly praised the single, calling it a “modern love anthem” and a “musical hug.” Its universal theme of belonging and connection makes it perfect for romantic playlists and cosy evening vibes.

     

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    Chloe Cloud continues solidifying her position as a rising star in the indie-pop scene. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to her music, *”My Heart Has Found a Home”* is a must-listen. Stream it now on Spotify, Apple Music, and all major platforms!

    Don’t miss this beautiful ode to love. Follow Chloe Cloud on [social media links] for updates on her upcoming projects.

  • British-Gambian rapper Pa Salieu and Def Jam’s ODUMODUBLVCK turn up in Lagos for ‘Big Smile’: Watch

    Dem dey shine teeth for video.

    Providing proof of the infamous bumper-to-bumper Lagos traffic and its star-studded nightlife to the world, British-Gambian artist Pa Salieu and Abuja’s breakout rap star ODUMODUBLVCK team up for the former’s latest fun and inviting dance track ‘Big Smile’. The visual, released yesterday, shows a closer look at the West African entertainer’s friendship and enjoyment. Add this to your daily workout playlist for when you’re revving to boost your mind and sweat out the toxins. Watch the video with wide eyes because you may miss a few cameos of notable people in the industry if you blink. Watch the video with wide eyes because you may miss a few cameos of notable people in the industry if you blink.

    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Tuo4LsKFYg&h=315]

  • Song of the Day: ‘Flow’ by Runtown

    Name: Runtown
    Representing: Enugu, Nigeria
    Genre: Afrobeats/Afro-Fusion/Alté
    For fans of: Wizkid, Odunsi (The Engine)
    Single from: N/A
    Produced by: Marcel Akunwata/Blaise Beatz
    Song of the Day: January 16, 2025
    Label(s): Soundgod Music

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    A week ago, on his Instagram, with more than three million followers, Runtown announced that his next release, ‘End a Man’, would arrive soon.

    Three weeks ago, Nigeria’s legendary musical superstar Runtown unveiled the official music video for his hypnotic track ‘Flow’, which epitomises his signature sound. In the engaging clip featuring stunning visuals that blend modern aesthetics with cultural elements, the ‘Mad Over You’ creator shares what appears to be a personal jewellery collection of crosses, some rings, a classic Benz truck, and the highlighting of Japanese fashion designer Jun Takahashi’s book—which isn’t a surprise as Runtown studied Fashion Management in New York City, has been in high fashion circles and has a unique fashion choice and style. For the remainder of the picture, the Afro-Fusion/Alté pioneer delights in smoking, enjoying the company of his friends, and singing about the various worldly things that try to command his attention.

    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHjMOmg_AZw&h=315]

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    ‘Flow’ continues Runtown’s streak of releasing emotionally resonant and danceable hits, reinforcing his position as one of Africa’s leading musical talents. Watch the music video above to witness his immaculate SoundGod branding and lifestyle.

  • Song of the Day: ‘Love Language’ by Breez Kennedy

    Name: Breez Kennedy
    Representing: St Petersburg, Florida
    Genre: R&B
    For fans of: Chris Brown
    Single from: N/A
    Produced by: Aidan Brody, Zevmadeit, ZiG
    Song of the Day: January 15, 2025
    Label(s): Standard Records/Def Jam Recordings

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    Does Breez Kennedy get any answers to his questions?

    Today, the talented American singer-songwriter Breez Kennedy unveiled the official performance visual for his introspective track, ‘Love Language’. Hailing from St Petersburg, Kennedy delivers a poignant narrative, skillfully addressing complex relationship dynamics through heartfelt lyricism and soulful vocal delivery. In ‘Love Language’, the artist poignantly questions his romantic partner, seeking to understand the motivations behind her actions and emotional distance. Through his evocative storytelling, Kennedy navigates themes of vulnerability and trust, demonstrating an acute awareness of the subtleties inherent in human connection. He tactfully inquires whether she requires space, even speculating on the possibility of another individual capturing her affections.

    Rather than succumbing to despair or resentment, Kennedy exhibits remarkable emotional maturity. He consciously chooses optimism, emphasising his commitment to preserving his mental well-being and resisting the allure of a darker psychological state. This deliberate positivity imbues the track with a hopeful resonance that is both refreshing and relatable. The performance visual further amplifies the emotional depth of the song, providing a clean and intimate aesthetic that allows viewers to immerse themselves in Kennedy’s expressive delivery. The stripped-down production underscores the sincerity of his message, allowing the raw emotion in his voice to take centre stage.

    Watch the compelling performance visual below to follow the unfolding narrative and experience the resolution of this heartfelt story.

    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgkRxpp8MPw&h=315]

  • Play FirstKlaz and Iliya Entertainment Music’s ‘Alhaji’ more than once

    How could you not dance like Charlie Brown and his squad when this sizzler plays?

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    One of the last things FirstKlaz did during the festive period in 2024 left his fans with a sparkling new collaborative track featuring his Hausa-speaking musical band, Iliya Entertainment Music. The exuberant and joyous Nigerian artist unleashed another on-brand hypnotic record about chopping on his raba. Based on the little I could pick up from the lyrics mixed with Yoruba, the Abuja-bred emerging star lets us know he is different from the pack and asserts that he could handle a vanilla nyash. What does the title of the song translate to or mean? An alhaji is a title given to a Muslim man who has completed the Hajj, a religious pilgrimage to Mecca — often used as a title of honour. 

    FirstKlaz, our first digital magazine issue star covering GRUNGECAKE AFRICA, promoted the single with videos posted online of him and his guys dancing to the track. Here are a few examples.

    @firstklaz

    ‘FIRSTKLAZ X ILIYA ENTERTAINMENT EP LOADINGGGGGG ! BOUJEEE BOY$ AT IT AGAINNNN ❤️ NORTH UP 4 LIFE AS FAR AS I’M ALIVE LAGOS TONIGHTT FIRSTKLAZ & FRIENDS NIGERIA TOUR ❤️

    ♬ original sound – Firstklaz

    @firstklaz New dance don land my people‼️ Tag me when you do it! reposting everything! #firstklaz #alhaji #arewa__tiktok #arewa ♬ Alhaji – Firstklaz & Iliya Entertainment Music

    I wish the lyrics were available on his Spotify profile, but maybe they will magically appear soon. To the artists reading this, adding lyrics is something to consider when you want to capture international audiences seriously. In any event, listen to the Ransom Beatz-produced banger more than once.

    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n0YQezge-V0&h=315]