In this week’s instalment of What’s Going On, we’ve rounded up the hottest new releases from NF, King Cruff, Lloyiso, Aly & AJ, and Magnetic Skies. As always, if you dig what you hear, be sure to stream and follow the artists.
NF – Rap sensation NF is back. The Michigan MC’s highly anticipated fifth studio album Hope is set to be released on April 7 via NF Real Music/Virgin Music/Universal Music Canada. Serving as the lead single from the project is the title track. Always one looking to motivate and inspire with his music, “Hope” doesn’t stray from the raw and introspective lyricism that listeners have come to appreciate from NF. With bars like “being brave enough to dream big, grinding when you’re told to just quit”, it’s no surprise that audiences flock to see the Billboard chart-topping rapper in droves the same way they would for famed motivational speakers such as Tony Robbins or Gary Vee.
Listen to NF’s new single “Hope” below.
King Cruff – Canadian-Jamaican MC King Cruff is continuing to prove why he’s one to watch. After signing with Universal Music Canada and Tuff Gong Collective and releasing his buzzworthy hit “Samurai Chop,” King Cruff is keeping that momentum going with his latest single, “Soufflé.” A more lighthearted affair, “Soufflé” has an irresistible, playful party vibe. King Cruff’s rapid-fire and witty delivery shows that he can flex his talents as an MC while still having a whole lot of fun. Catch King Cruff performing on February 23 in Brampton at the Keshia Chanté and MC Bondé hosted FLAVOURS & VIBES.
Listen to King Cruff’s new single “Soufflé” below.
Lloyiso – The name on everyone’s lips is going to be Lloyiso. Who’s Lloyiso? The South African singer-songwriter is quickly amassing a following thanks to his previous singles “Let Me Love You Now,” “What Would I Say,” and “Speak,” all of which have already racked up millions of streams. The South African Idol alum announced his debut EP Seasons, dropping on March 31 via Universal Music Group South Africa/Republic Records. Along with that announcement comes the release of his new single “Run.” Created with heavy hitters Earwulf, Mr. Hudson, and Stargate, “Run” showcases Lloyiso’s soaring vocals over the track’s gorgeous production.
Listen to Lloyiso’s new single “Run” below.
Aly & AJ – Sister indie-pop duo Aly & AJ are out now with “After Hours,” the latest release from the pair’s forthcoming album With Love From. Aly & AJ continue to paint with all of the colours in the pop genre rainbow, with “After Hours” feeling rooted in Americana and country. The instant singalong quality and self-reflective lyrics add to the late-night campfire vibe. If you can’t get enough, Aly & AJ’s new album With Love From is due out on March 15. Aly & AJ are hitting the road this spring on their With Love From Tour with shows across North America, including a Toronto date at History on April 19.
Listen to Aly & AJ’s new single “After Hours”’ below.
Magnetic Skies – London synthpop outfit Magnetic Skies want to make you feel something with “You Shine On,” their new single on ReprinT Records. Without sounding reductive, “You Shine On” is a modern take on the dreamy ‘80s synthpop of acts like OMD, Depeche Mode, and The Human League. Speaking on the new single, Magnetic Skies state: “This is a love song, a story about two people finding each other despite divisions from outside, and about being true to yourself even when that doesn’t fit with expectations from society or other people. It’s celebrating a really positive self-belief.”
Listen to Magnetic Skies’ new single “You Shine On” below.
