MUST LISTEN 125
Every week, we’ll be bringing you Must Listen: a series that's a compilation of rising artists along with songs that must be added to your everyday playlist. This week’s playlist consists of emerging acts like Naomi Wild, Noah Guy, and Lecx Stacy.
L.A based R&B singer-songwriter Naomi Wild returns with frequent collaborator Tempest on their latest track, “HOW YOU FEELIN.” The song features a smooth, alt-R&B vibe with a sensual flare where the two easily complement each other. The duo proves they are the ultimate creative dream team.
Emerging Filipino-American multi-hyphenate artist Lecx Stacy releases his new EP, Held My Gaze. Held My Gaze finds an evolved Lecx in the midst of self-discovery while expanding on his lived experience as a first-generation Filipino-American escaping the Catholic ideologies he was raised on.
Indie pop artist Zachary Knowles releases his newest single, “JUST STAY FOR ONCE.” Exploring the artist’s personal struggles with mental health, the track dives into self-doubt and how these feelings can transpire into insecurities that affect romantic relationships.
Taiwanese R&B singer, actress, and creative artist 9m88 (pronounced “Jo-m-Baba”) shared the video for “Star,” produced by Stones Throw artist Silas Short. The track showcases 9m88’s buttery vocals across Short’s jazzed-out R&B beat, as she croons about being stuck in a negative funk, eventually encouraged to find the brightness inside.
Alt-Pop artist Cailin Russo returns with her fiery new single, “Lonely Estate.” The track comes from the perspective of being trapped in an online relationship and being so hung up on virtual love, you lose yourself.
Pop phenomenon Lolo Zouai shares the title track to her forthcoming album PLAYGIRL. “pl4yg1rl” sets the tone for the project, leaning into internet fantasy blending elements of y2k pop to create this ethereal club banger.
Ka$hdami
Back with a big bang, 17-year-old rapper, entrepreneur, visionary, and the DMV’s hottest rising star KA$HDAMI unleashes his anxiously awaited new mixtape, WORLD DAMINATION. We witness the bubbling rapper at the top of his game with an epic collection of explosive yet entrancing bangers that expose a deeper look at the lifestyle he’s created for himself. It highlights the nuances of his scorching and distinct signature style with one punchy and potent anthem after another.
R&B singer-songwriter Noah Guy released his soulful new single, “5 MO’ MINUTES.” With every release, the Pennsylvania native manages to outdo himself. This single is filled with a lush and intense production, creating a classic neo-soul soundscape.