This week’s Thanksgiving edition of New Music Friday is a treat for hip-hop enthusiasts, showcasing an array of exciting new albums. Leading the charge is a posthumous release from the beloved rapper Juice WRLD, marking the third album since his untimely passing over five years ago. His remarkable talent during his brief career continues to resonate, allowing his record labels to unveil 18 fresh tracks without relying heavily on guest features or recycled content.
In addition to Juice WRLD, two of hip-hop’s most talked-about figures, Kodak Black and Yungeen Ace, have dropped new projects, aiming to shift the narrative around their controversial personas. Fans of G Herbo are also in for a treat with a deluxe version of his 2023 mixtape, Strictly 4 My Fans, which adds even more heat to his already impressive discography.
Other notable releases this week include Keep Me Company from Brooklyn lyricist Skyzoo and a greatest hits compilation from the soulful Jhené Aiko. Let’s dive into the details of these exciting new albums!
Juice WRLD – The Party Never Ends
The centerpiece of this week’s releases demonstrates the meticulous care taken in preserving Juice WRLD’s artistic integrity. The 18-track collection features production from industry heavyweights Metro Boomin, Boi-1da, Nick Mira, Zaytoven, and Benny Blanco. Notable collaborations include Eminem on “Shadow of Death,” Nicki Minaj’s powerful verses on “Memories Fade,” Offset bringing energy to “Life’s a Maze,” and The Kid LAROI’s emotional contribution to “Forever Young.” Fall Out Boy adds a rock-inspired edge to “Last Call,” though these features are thoughtfully spaced to ensure Juice’s voice remains the focal point. The album’s standout tracks include “Midnight Hours,” “Dancing With Darkness,” and “Eternal Light,” each showcasing his distinctive ability to blend melody with raw emotion. Grade A Productions and Interscope Records have announced a deluxe edition featuring 10 additional tracks selected through fan voting, demonstrating their commitment to involving Juice’s dedicated fanbase in preserving his legacy.
Kodak Black – Trill Bill
Emerging from a period of personal challenges, Kodak Black‘s latest project represents a significant artistic statement. Released through Vulture Love and Capitol Records, the album showcases production from ATL Jacob and D.A. Got That Dope. The project’s highlights include the introspective “Street Symphony,” the hard-hitting “Florida Heat,” and the melodic “Paradise Lost,” featuring TTO K.T. The collaboration with Taylor So Made on “Southern Nights” adds a unique dimension to the album. The production quality shines particularly bright on tracks like “Midnight Thoughts” and “Rain Dance,” where Kodak’s distinctive flow meshes seamlessly with atmospheric beats. This album marks Kodak’s first full-length release since his previous mixtape received RIAA Gold certification, highlighting his consistent commercial success despite personal setbacks.
G Herbo – Strictly 4 My Fans 2.0
The Chicago native’s expanded mixtape adds five compelling new tracks to his original release. The deluxe edition features production from Southside and Wheezy, creating a sonic landscape that perfectly complements Herbo’s intense delivery. Standout additions include “Chicago Nights” with GloRilla, the street-smart “Block Tales” featuring Mello Buckzz, and the hard-hitting “City Blues” with Drench. The new tracks “Survival Code” and “Streets Don’t Love” showcase Herbo’s growth as an artist while maintaining his signature style.
Yungeen Ace – I Control My Destiny
The Florida rapper’s pivotal album features production from Maurice Polite Jr. and Joshua Junhee Park, showcasing a more introspective approach. Key tracks include the reflective “Tomorrow’s Promise,” the energetic “Jacksonville Story” featuring Hunxho, and the emotionally charged “Better Days” with Raybekah. The album’s production creates a perfect backdrop for Ace’s narrative-driven lyrics, particularly evident in songs like “Street Prophecy” and “Young King’s Prayer.”
Skyzoo – Keep Me Company
Brooklyn’s veteran lyricist recorded his latest project entirely at legendary D&D Studios. The album’s standout tracks include “Brooklyn’s Finest Hour,” “Legacy Written,” and the thought-provoking “Time Capsule,” featuring Chuck D’s first guest appearance of 2023. The project showcases production from JR Swiftz and DJ Manipulator, with additional contributions from ANKN and VDR.
Jhené Aiko – The Magic Hour Collection
The R&B songstress’s compilation under Def Jam spans her decade-long career. The collection features critically acclaimed collaborations including “While We’re Young” with Kendrick Lamar, “Twenty88” with Big Sean, and the soul-stirring “Fade Away” with H.E.R. The collection has been remastered specifically for this release, enhancing the sonic quality of these beloved tracks.
Industry impact
This week’s releases collectively represent over 100 hours of studio time, featuring contributions from 45 producers and 30 guest artists. The projects showcase the continuing evolution of hip-hop across different regions and styles, from Juice WRLD’s emotional melodic rap to Kodak Black’s Southern trap influences and G Herbo’s Chicago drill sound. The variety of releases demonstrates the genre’s ability to accommodate diverse artistic expressions while maintaining commercial viability.
