Hello, welcome to Press Play Friday! This week, we were blessed with a ton of new music, but mainly singles. We finally get the posthumous Mac Miller album that has been rumored since his passing. We also got an album from one of rap’s OG’s. We got a new single from Central Cee and it features 21 Savage on it. We also see the return of Busta Rhymes and NLE Choppa on a completely different vibe. It’s time to press play.
Balloonerism – Mac Miller
Mac Miller’s estate has finally released Balloonerism, a posthumous album that has been the topic of discussion for years. Balloonerism is a 14-track project that showcases just how experimental Miller was. The album arrives days ahead with what would have been Miller’s 33rd birthday. The rapper from Pittsburgh passed away from an overdose in 2018 at the age of 26.
Standout tracks: DJ’s Chord Organ ft. SZA, “Friendly Hallucinations,” and “Stoned”
Dragon Season… The Awakening – EP – Busta Rhymes
It has been decades since we last heard a project from the rap icon, but alas the wait is finally over. Busta Rhymes released his new EP today and he gives us exactly what he’s known for. Spitting hot fire. The quick-hitting bars and lyrical manipulation that made the world fall in love with Busta is on full display throughout this entire project. One listen through makes you want more Busta rhymes, so go ahead and listen to it and even go check out some of his old hits too.
Standout Tracks: “Do The Busabus Pt. 2,” “Treasure & Gold” ft. YG Marley,” and “Unleash Me”
Singles
NLE Choppa and Imagine Dragons – “Dare U”
NLE Choppa decided to try his hand at EDM/electronic music, and he was right at home. On this energetic track, NLE is daring his opps, whether that’s in a flexing match or if you catch him outside. Imagine Dragons add a great touch on the chorus as well. One of the most surprising songs but easily also one of the best.
Central Cee and 21 Savage – “GBP”
Central Cee saw the success of Band To Band and decided to run it back with 21 Savage. The two rappers trade bars about lavish living on “GBP,” and I foresee similar success. Expect this song to be a TikTok favorite while we still have the app.
Jhonni Blaze – “Don’t Break My Heart”
Jhonni Blaze has one of the most beautiful voices you’ll hear and it’s on full display with “Don’t Break My Heart.” Jhonni Blaze sings about the difficulties of being in love from a female side and Method Man gives the male perspective, bookending a perfect story. A must listen.
Montana 700 – “Brinks Truck”
The Dallas rapper gained a lot of steam in 2024, and he’s keeping that momentum heading into 2025. “Brinks Truck” is the first single from Montana 700’s upcoming album and it’s a hit. Montana 700 drops bars about being committed to bag, whether that’s in the trap or in rap.
Eem Triplin – “Miss Me”
Eem Triplin has a simple question: Did you miss him? He brings his signature sound here on this bouncy beat and he just wants to know if his shorty missed him while he was on the road or if she even misses how he used to make her feel. Either way, Eem Triplin had something to get off his chest, and he did it perfectly on this track.
