Undoubtedly one of the biggest pop stars of her generation, Ariana Grande returns with her first solo single in four years. “yes, and?” is a slick, vibrant and dynamic pop number, featuring a joyful and empowering chorus, dazzling vocals and pristine production.

On her first Spanish-language album, Kali Uchis is in the form of her career. Orquídeas is colour-laden and playful, features some of the biggest names in Latin music from Peso Plum and Rauw Alejandro, and flaunts the artistic depth and diversity from one of the biggest and brightest pop stars of the modern age.

One of the most captivating names in modern rap, decorated creative 21 Savage is here to take over this year. The trailer for his biographic film, starring Caleb and Donald Glover as 21 himself, dropped earlier this week, and today an LP of the same name has blessed our ears. Full of A-list features, classic verses and gorgeous soul sample flips, it’s a superb album – probably the best rap album released this year to date.

East London’s Unknown T is amongst UK drill’s most successful and artistically progressive acts, and with his new record, Blood Diamond, he shows his desire to push the boundaries of what is expected of him. A standout offering from the album is “Hocus Pocus“, a track that enlists UK favourite Loyle Carner for his most brazen rap verse in memory.

One of the most flamboyant and captivating artists to come out of the US in the last few years, Teezo Touchdown has stormed into the upper tiers of the industry over the past 12 months. Last year’s How Do You Sleep At Night? was a masterful, entertaining and highly creative record, and its new deluxe edition only augments the brilliance, with new cuts like the smooth yet slightly unhinged “Up And Down” furthering flaunting his individuality and musicianship.

Bilingual Manchester-based singer-songwriter has a dreamy effervescence to her essence. As she gears up to release a new EP “Antes” on 9th February, she teases us with a delicate and divine offering. “effort in” sees Cobham in spellbinding form atop deft production from Frankie Scoca, weaving a tale of self reflection, interchanging between English and Spanish effortlessly.

Nigerian Afro-fusion frontrunner Omah Lay has began the year in fine form with the release of “Holy Ghost”. The music video is as cinematic as they come, and the sonics live up to the fantastic visuals, with Lay once again sharpening his approach, his artistic direction increasingly unique and individualistic.

OMG is right — Suki Waterhouse is back with more music. Her new single, which comes with a vintage-inspired music video shot partly in black and white, is a striking and sultry alt-pop anthem. As she sings to the camera and, at moments, gives us a glimpse at her baby bump, her energy feels fuelled by a dynamic mix of longing, resentment, and above all, power. Infectious and addictive with just the right amount of off-kilter surprises, it’s as classically Suki as it is indicative of something new — and we can’t wait to see what’s next.

Fresh from his double MOBO nomination, North London breakout rapper AntsLive returns to the soundsphere with another scintillating single showcasing the breakout talent’s trademark flow and sleek lyricism atop choppy percussive elements and slick synth samples, produced by PRGRSHN (Stormzy, Aya Nakamura, Jacob Banks) and Azul Wynter (Justin Bieber, GASHI, Migos, Drake). “Cutlery” comes paired with another boundary-pushing visual, breaking new ground by using the hacked CCTV cameras across London that have been leaked online. Fans can find the locations that were used in the video on AntsLivecams.com, and also use the site to make their own film. With a seemingly innate ability to make bangers, and headlined in equal measure Ants continues his breakthrough into the British mainstream with fun and focus.

Grime linchpin Manga Saint Hilare has been teasing his new project for a while and this week he announced his new album Everything Is Under Control. The next instalment will follow his latest single “Alarm Bells,” a jabbing heater produced by MoreNight which encapsulates true spirit of Grime. As Manga gears up for his MOBO Nomination for Best Grime Act he forms a Grime avengers line up on the track with a helping hand from JME and P Money.

BRIT-nominated South London singer/songwriter Lola Young has a new single out and we’re obsessed. The follow up to “Conceited”, “Wish You Were Dead” shows more of the star’s raw yet refined talent, with alt-rock sensibilities and a full sound that commands attention of all who take a listen. Lola’s honest, gut-wrenching lyricism details a toxic relationship as her powerful vocals take centre stage, piercing us straight through the heart.

Ahead of their forthcoming new album, HARM’S WAY, out on February 9th, the Toronto-based power pop-duo Ducks Ltd. gives us a sneak peek of what’s to come with the release of their latest track, “Train Full Of Gasoline”. The song is the third release of the new album, which inaugurates a new chapter of their artistry, exploring interpersonal and societal collapses, urban decay, and the near-impossibility of keeping a level head when everything around seems to be falling apart. “They’re songs about struggling,” says McGreevy. “About watching people I care for suffer, and trying to figure out how to be there for them. And about the strain of living in the world when it feels like it’s ready to collapse.”

After a collaborative 2023, featuring partnerships with Kojey Radical and Phabo, and endorsements from artists like Little Simz, Lalah Hathaway, and Jorja Smith, British-Nigerian R&B rising star Shaé Universe is gearing up for a powerful start in 2024. Her first musical offering of the year, “What’s Luv,” is a sun-dappled, laid-back tune accompanied by breezy guitar licks, where we listen to her reflections on self-love. Alongside the release, she also announces her new 10-track project, “Love’s Letter,” set to arrive on Valentine’s Day.

London-based electronic duo pecq is kicking off 2024 on the right foot. On the countdown for the release of their new ep, “red moon, rare night”, out in March, they now unveil their latest tune, “closer”. Cavernous and glitchy, the track delves into the realms of electro-pop and meditative indie-electronica, as the duo skillfully weave together a diverse range of influences, navigating through choppy dance beats, twisting alt-pop melodies, and blissful ambient daydreams.

Hot on the heels of a MOBO nomination for ‘Best Newcomer’, the UK rap trailblazer Rimzee continues to cement his name as one of the best lyricists emanating from these shores with a hard-hitting new single. “Money and Power” sees Rimzee deliver his trademark bars atop punchy percussive elements, light piano keys and echoing vocal samples, making for an impactful soundtrack. Exclaiming “first you get the money, then you get the power, then you get the women”, Rimzee demonstrates his innate ability in crafting powerful and thought-provoking real rap music. Look out for his forthcoming Feed The Streets mixtape next month.

Showcasing a different side to his ever-developing repertoire, sixteen-year-old London rapper LeoStayTrill serves up a slow-paced, nostalgic soundtrack – self-produced alongside Xeretto – consisting of smart percussive elements and echo-induced instrumentals. Allowing his unique cadence and delivery to flow, Leo touches on current relationships, and his recent growth and his steely-eyed ambitions for himself. Self-assured and high-quality, “10pm in London” will continue the attention around Leo as he underlines himself further as a name in the higher echelons of the UK rap scene.

Black Sherif’s “January 9” is an introspective masterpiece released on his very own birthday, unveiling the rap sensation’s most reflective offering to date. With soulful melodies and insightful lyrics, the song showcases his growth, authenticity and self discovery. Happy Belated Birthday to Black Sherif!

Shaznay Lewis returns with “Miracle”, her first solo single in two decades! The song highlights her songwriting talents, blending stellar hooks and beautiful melodies. With her powerful delivery, Lewis offers a love song to herself, celebrating self-esteem and confidence.