New Music Friday is coming with something for the hustlers, the day-one fans, and everybody who appreciates a good comeback story.
Meek Mill is back with “Wanna Be Free,” featuring G Herbo, a collaboration that brings together two rappers who have never been shy about discussing the realities behind their success. Released October 16 through DreamChasers and distributed by Stem, the approximately five-minute record trades quick-hit streaming formulas for something more substantial. “Wanna Be Free” gives both artists room to reflect on the experiences that shaped them. Meek attacks the production with his Philly energy, while G Herbo brings the perspective of someone who understands that financial success does not automatically erase everything that came before it. The release follows Meek’s July single “Nightmares To Dreams,” which revisited the determination that helped establish his career. Now, with G Herbo alongside him, Meek is keeping that same hunger at the center of his music.
Meanwhile, A$AP Rocky is delivering something his longtime listeners have been waiting years to hear. His new single “Shroom Clouds,” featuring reGGie and Jeremih, officially arrived after Rocky first previewed the record in 2021 and performed it again in 2022. Produced by Rocky, Hector Delgado, and Kevin Arcilla, the track combines psychedelic production, distorted vocals, and the experimental approach that has become a signature of Rocky’s catalog. However, the release is bigger than one song. “Shroom Clouds” is expected to appear on “Don’t Be Dumb: Disc 2,” an upcoming companion project that Rocky has described as a home for music associated with his different creative alter egos.
Then there is Gucci Mane, who is adding another chapter to his extensive catalog with “Against All Odds,” released October 16 through 1017 Global Music and Atlantic Records. The 17-track album features a relatively focused guest list, with Summer Walker appearing on “Last Night in ATL,” ICE DAVIS joining “Priorities,” and longtime collaborator OJ da Juiceman contributing to “Lambo Pass By.” The tracklist also includes “Back Against the Wall,” “Yall Make Me Sick,” “Fucc Errybody,” “STFU,” “Rich Ass Nigga,” “Crash Dummy,” and “1017.” The titles alone suggest that Gucci is not interested in softening his delivery for anybody.
With more than two decades in hip-hop, Gucci has built a career around reinvention, independence, and helping introduce new artists to the mainstream. “Against All Odds” continues that story while keeping his name attached to the Atlanta sound he helped popularize.
This New Music Friday is about artists who understand the value of staying in the conversation. Meek Mill and G Herbo are reflecting on the cost of success, A$AP Rocky is opening his archives for a new chapter, and Gucci Mane is reminding listeners that his catalog is still growing. Now the question is which release deserves the first spin.
Meek Mill feat. G Herbo – “Wanna Be Free” (single)
A$AP Rocky feat. Reggie & Jeremih – “Shroom Clouds” (single)
Bay Swag feat. Fatt Smaxk & Young KD – “Drain” (single)
Papa Jay feat. G Herbo – “Work Dat” (single)
Armanii – “Polaroid” (single)
Jawan – “Fresher Than Us” (single)
Gucci Mane – “Against All Odds” (album)
Lucki – “Last Laugh” (album)
Fredo Bang – “Laugh Now Cry Later” (album)
Tierra Whack – “Whack’s Museum” (album)
