GRUNGECAKE

Author: grungecake

  • Listen to SZA’s deluxe version of ‘SOS’ with 15 additional tracks

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    SZA, the acclaimed R&B artist, has officially released the much-anticipated deluxe edition of her sophomore album, ‘SOS’, titled ‘SOS Deluxe: LANA’. The expanded project, which dropped on December 20, 2024, features a total of thirty-eight tracks, including fourteen new songs alongside the original twenty-three tracks from ‘SOS’. The release faced a slight delay; initially scheduled for midnight, it was postponed to noon due to final mixing adjustments. SZA addressed the delay on social media, stating:

    “Just needed a few more hours to make sure everything was perfect for you all.”

    Among the new additions, the track ‘Drive’ has garnered significant attention, accompanied by a music video featuring actor Ben Stiller.

    In the video, Stiller is seen driving and emotively lip-syncing to the song, culminating in a dance sequence on an empty highway. SZA makes an appearance towards the video’s end, transitioning into another track, ‘Crybaby’, donning prosthetics reminiscent of the album cover.

    Reflecting on the journey since the original ‘SOS’ release, SZA expressed gratitude towards her supporters, stating:

    “This past year has been a whirlwind, and I’m so thankful for everyone who has listened and connected with my music. *Lana* is a continuation of that journey, and I can’t wait for you all to experience it.”

    The original ‘SOS’ album achieved remarkable success, spending ten weeks atop the Billboard 200 and earning SZA her first #1 single on the Billboard Hot 100. With the release of ‘SOS Deluxe: Lana’, SZA continues to solidify her position as a leading figure in contemporary R&B, offering fans an expanded and enriched musical experience.

  • Queens rapper Bay Swag returns with new single ‘Drank’ featuring 42 Dugg

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    Bay Swag, a burgeoning talent in the Hip-Hop landscape, has made a resounding return with his latest single, ‘Drank’, featuring acclaimed rapper 42 Dugg. This collaboration exemplifies the evolving dynamics of modern Rap, blending melodic innovation with raw, street-inspired lyricism. The track, coupled with a vibrant visualiser, encapsulates Bay Swag’s artistic versatility and forward-thinking approach to music production.

    In ‘Drank’, Bay Swag deftly alternates between smooth melodies and assertive, hard-hitting bars. This juxtaposition demonstrates his ability to navigate the spectrum of contemporary Hip-Hop styles. The track’s collaboration with 42 Dugg amplifies its appeal, merging Swag’s melodic creativity with Dugg’s distinctive delivery. The result is a track that is rhythmically compelling and structurally innovative, featuring a memorable hook and verses that resonate with both mainstream audiences and niche rap aficionados.

    The release of the ‘Drank’ visualiser further elevates the track’s impact. Unlike conventional music videos, visualisers emphasise the aesthetic essence of a song, offering a stylised interpretation rather than a linear narrative. Bay Swag’s choice to employ this medium underscores his commitment to exploring new avenues of artistic expression. The visualiser’s high-energy and playful elements complement the track’s dynamic vibe, providing a multifaceted sensory experience for viewers.

    From an industry perspective, ‘Drank’ signifies Bay Swag’s strategic positioning as an artist who bridges the gap between emerging and established Hip-Hop currents. By collaborating with 42 Dugg, a figure emblematic of Detroit’s thriving rap scene, Bay Swag enhances his credibility and expands his audience reach.

    This release not only reflects Bay Swag’s growth as an artist but also contributes to the broader discourse on the fluidity and innovation characterising modern Hip-Hop. ‘Drank’ is a testament to the genre’s enduring evolution, showcasing how artists can balance creative experimentation with commercial viability.

    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IAbZz18pb8M&h=315]

  • Watch Offset’s extravagant video for ‘Swing My Way’ starring supermodel Anok Yai

    Supermodel Anok Yai stars as Offset’s love interest, adding a layer of allure to the narrative.

    A day shy of a week, former Migos rapper Offset released the official music video for his new single, ‘Swing My Way’. The visual showcases his signature style over a low-slung groove produced by Turbo, known for collaborations with artists like Young Thug and Travis Scott. The accompanying music video, directed by Kid Art, is a visual feast set against the vibrant backdrops of Brooklyn and Miami. The video’s cinematography juxtaposes gritty urban scenes with luxurious settings, creating a dynamic visual experience that complements the track’s rhythm. ‘Swing My Way’ pays homage to the 1997 hit by KP & Envyi, infusing a nostalgic element into Offset’s modern rendition.

    The video’s release coincided with Offset’s thirty-third birthday celebrations in Miami, where he hosted a star-studded party attended by celebrities like Keyshia Cole, Rich the Kid, and Travis Scott. This strategic timing highlights Offset’s flair for blending personal milestones with professional achievements. The collaboration with Anok Yai not only elevates the video’s aesthetic but also underscores Offset’s commitment to integrating high fashion into his music projects. Yai’s presence bridges the worlds of music and modelling, enhancing the video’s appeal to a broader audience.

    ‘Swing My Way’ is available on major streaming platforms and on YouTube, where it has garnered significant attention from fans and critics alike. This release continues to solidify Offset’s position in the music industry, demonstrating his ability to innovate whilst paying respect to classic influences. As the legendary rapper embarks on this new chapter, ‘Swing My Way’ exemplifies Offset’s dedication to his craft and his knack for creating content that resonates across diverse audiences.

    The video’s artistic direction and the track’s production quality reflect a meticulous approach, indicating that Offset’s future endeavours are poised to make substantial impacts in the music scene. Fans eagerly anticipate what Offset will deliver next, as ‘Swing My Way’ sets a high bar for his upcoming projects. The seamless blend of visual storytelling and musical prowess in this release underscores Offset’s evolution as an artist, marking “Swing My Way” as a standout addition to his discography.

    For a visual experience of ‘Swing My Way’, you can watch the official music video below.

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

  • DJ Remo’s New Song ‘Forever’ is a Must-Listen Anthem

    DJ Remo has done it again! His latest track, ‘Forever’, is taking the music scene by storm. Known for blending soulful beats with electrifying drops, DJ Remo’s new single is a captivating journey of love, resilience, and timeless connection.

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    This release stands out with its pulsating rhythm, heartfelt lyrics, and addictive melody that hooks listeners from the first note. The track seamlessly combines electronic dance music with a hint of pop, creating a soundscape that’s both fresh and deeply emotional. Fans are already hailing it as a perfect anthem for late-night drives, festival stages, and intimate moments alike.

     

    The song features a powerful vocal collaboration, adding depth and emotion to the already mesmerizing production. DJ Remo’s knack for crafting songs that resonate on both personal and universal levels is evident here, making ‘Forever’ not just a song but an experience.

  • Listen to KRISTII’s ‘Lightning’ featuring Chris Brown & O.T. Genasis

    Kristii, the Austrian-born RnB-Pop sensation, is back with a bang—and this time, she’s bringing heavyweights Chris Brown and O.T. Genasis along for the ride. Her new single, ‘Lightning’, is not just a track; it’s a testament to her rising stardom and a bold declaration of her place in the global music scene. Combining electrifying beats with soulful undertones, ‘Lightning’ is a song that speaks directly to the heart while igniting dance floors around the world.

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    At just 22, Kristii has already proven she’s no ordinary artist. With roots in Vienna—the city of musical giants like Mozart and Strauss—and a voice honed by opera training, Kristii has forged a path as unique as her sound. Inspired by iconic divas like Beyoncé and Mariah Carey, she blends RnB and Pop into an irresistible cocktail of raw emotion and vocal brilliance. And with ‘Lightning’, she’s turning up the voltage.

  • TIME names WNBA star player Caitlin Clark TIME 100’s ‘Athlete of the Year’

    Caitlin Clark has been named “TIME 100’s Athlete of the Year for 2024”, a testament to her transformative impact on women’s basketball and sports culture. The twenty-two-year-old phenom has shattered records and redefined the fan experience during her illustrious career at the University of Iowa and now in the WNBA. Clark’s electrifying performances have captivated audiences, setting attendance and viewership records. She led Iowa to the 2023 NCAA Championship game, during which nearly ten million viewers tuned in—a milestone for women’s college basketball viewership. Her unparalleled scoring ability, including a record-breaking 191 points in the 2023 NCAA tournament, solidifies her as one of the sport’s all-time greats.

    Beyond statistics, Clark’s influence extends to boosting the sport’s visibility. Her games consistently draw massive live audiences, and she’s been credited with bringing newfound attention and respect to women’s basketball. TIME’s recognition celebrates her not just as an athlete, but as a cultural icon who has elevated women’s sports to unprecedented levels.

    From her collegiate stardom to her professional journey, Caitlin Clark continues to inspire young athletes while breaking barriers in sports. This accolade cements her place in history as a trailblazer redefining what’s possible on and off the court.

  • Jamie Foxx jokingly says he’s done dating white women, post-stroke: “I’m done”

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    Jamie Foxx recently grabbed attention with humor and candid revelations in his Netflix special, ‘What Had Happened Was’. During the show, the Oscar-winning actor reflected on his health recovery from a stroke and joked about his dating preferences. He playfully announced, “No more white girls,” adding a comedic twist with lyrics like “No more potato salad and raisins.” This lighthearted moment was met with laughter as Foxx joked about shifting his romantic outlook following his six-year relationship with Katie Holmes and his recent pairing with Alyce Huckstepp.

    Foxx’s humour extended to addressing rumours of him being cloned, which arose during his recovery. He joked that these speculations were dismissed once he was publicly seen with Huckstepp. The entertainer’s witty remarks added levity to his serious health journey, during which he openly shared details about his brain bleed and expressed gratitude to fans for their support.

    The special highlights Foxx’s resilience, blending his comedic genius with personal insights. His bold declarations and candid reflections continue to showcase his talent for turning life’s challenges into moments of connection and laughter.

  • Hear Ghanaian artist $pacely’s latest EP ‘4 Da Pain’

    In early August, Ghana’s rising star artist $pacely — real name Elorm Kabu Amenyah — released a five-track extended play called ‘4 Da Pain’ featuring guest appearances from Robin Rozay, Joey B, Marince Omario, Dan Drizzy, and AratheJay. In the first track, ‘Alomo’, the Accra artist praises himself (“bad guy looking like Tony Montana”) and paints the picture of a fun Summer night with a young woman in VIP — alcohol included. On ‘Fine’, his sentiment is a continued appreciation of that special person’s sweet body and interpolates Craig David’s 2000 Pop hit record ‘Fill Me In’. For ‘Agoro’, most of the track is in a local language, so I cannot give more context, but it sounds like another song about someone’s body in a bedroom. ‘Omoge’ begs for quality time from his partner—welcoming her to spend every dollar of his money. This song was made by an individual so deep in love you may want to check their pulse often. West African people refer to that kind of person as a “finished” person.

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    Finally, ‘Nana’ is a song with a sensual energy that seems to tell the story of a young man who misses his significant other and celebrates or doesn’t hide his emotions. The La Même Gang member’s latest extended play is now available on streaming platforms through Labadi Music.

  • President Joseph R Biden Jr pardons son Hunter Biden

    On Sunday (December 1), President Joseph R Biden Jr said he pardoned his son, Hunter Biden, after stating he would not interfere with the legal proceedings against him.

    In his statement, President Biden explains why he changed his mind: “Today, I signed a pardon for my son Hunter. From the day I took office, I said I would not interfere with the Justice Department’s decision-making, and I kept my word even as I have watched my son being selectively, and unfairly, prosecuted.”

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    The President continued, “Without aggravating factors like use in a crime, multiple purchases, or buying a weapon as a straw purchaser, people are almost never brought to trial on felony charges solely for how they filled out a gun form. Those who were late paying their taxes because of serious addictions, but paid them back subsequently with interest and penalties, are typically given non-criminal resolutions. It is clear that Hunter was treated differently. 
     
    The charges in his cases came about only after several of my political opponents in Congress instigated them to attack me and oppose my election. Then, a carefully negotiated plea deal, agreed to by the Department of Justice, unraveled in the court room – with a number of my political opponents in Congress taking credit for bringing political pressure on the process. Had the plea deal held, it would have been a fair, reasonable resolution of Hunter’s cases.   
     
    No reasonable person who looks at the facts of Hunter’s cases can reach any other conclusion than Hunter was singled out only because he is my son – and that is wrong. There has been an effort to break Hunter – who has been five and a half years sober, even in the face of unrelenting attacks and selective prosecution. In trying to break Hunter, they’ve tried to break me – and there’s no reason to believe it will stop here. Enough is enough. 
     
    For my entire career I have followed a simple principle: just tell the American people the truth. They’ll be fair-minded. Here’s the truth: I believe in the justice system, but as I have wrestled with this, I also believe raw politics has infected this process and it led to a miscarriage of justice – and once I made this decision this weekend, there was no sense in delaying it further. I hope Americans will understand why a father and a President would come to this decision.”

  • Stream The LOX’s new song ‘Isley Money’

    Late last month (November 26), The LOX released a new record titled ‘Isley Money’ via their independent label, D-Block. For the new track, Styles P raps about his life before owning a fresh juice spot and having drug dealer dreams, Sheek Louch covers his journey as a young man hustling crack and making their town proud, and Jadakiss gloats about building your brand up and having most of the culture behind him in his signature raspy voice. The star rappers once signed to Sean “Puffy” Combs or Diddy are taking time to focus on their joint and separate releases. In the interim of that release, listen to the record below, which samples the silky and smooth vocals from legendary R&B group The Isley Brothers. It’s the first record that The LOX released in four years. If attached to an album, it would be their fifth studio album.

    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BhebB4nhpW0&h=315]