This week’s New Music Friday arrives with a mix of long-awaited returns and career-defining moments. From Grammy-winning momentum to introspective rap releases, today’s drops are giving listeners a little bit of everything heading into the weekend.
Durand Bernarr steps into a new era with his album “Bernarr,” arriving on the heels of a major career milestone. The Cleveland-born singer recently earned his first Grammy win for “BLOOM,” which took home Best Progressive R&B Album, cementing his place as one of the genre’s most dynamic voices. With “Bernarr,” he expands on that momentum, tapping into his signature mix of funk, soul, and gospel influences.
Lil Tjay returns with “They Just Ain’t You,” continuing to build on the melodic rap style that helped catapult him out of the Bronx into mainstream success. Known for hits like “F.N” and “Calling My Phone,” Tjay leans into emotional storytelling during a time where his freedom could be on the line. He was recently arrested for his role in the Offset shooting, which many have reported stemmed from an unpaid debt. While he doesn’t appear to speak on the incident across these 13 tracks, it’s evident the rapper wants to move forward with his music and leave the drama behind him.
Isaiah Rashad also returns with “It’s Been Awful,” marking another deeply personal release from the TDE standout. Isaiah Rashad’s new music comes years after he was brutally outed on the internet for his sexuality. Since then, there has been much discourse about his personal life, which seemingly led him to take a hiatus. “It’s Been Awful” is his first album in four years, following “The House Is Burning.” While it’s unknown if Isaiah Rashad wants to fully hop back in the rap game or simply vent, his fans are glad to see him back.
This week’s New Music Friday certainly packs a punch, and with warmer days approaching, these artists are providing a soundtrack that blends reflection with feel-good energy. Take a scroll below to discover more from the latest drops shaping your weekend rotation.
Chris Brown feat. Leon Thomas – “Fallin” (single)
Bryson Tiller – “It’s Ok” (single)
NAV feat. Quavo – “MUTT” (single)
Toosii – “Proud Of Me” (single)
Boston Richey – “B***h You Weird” (single)
The-Dream – “Bring That Body” (single)
KenTheMan – “Popular” (single)
Durand Bernarr – “Bernarr” (album)
ASAKE – “M$NEY” (album)
Lil Tjay – “They Just Ain’t You” (album)
Isaiah Rashad – “It’s Been Awful” (album)
