Fresh Fridays: The Best New Rap & R&B Drops (July 1–4, 2025)
The past four days delivered a wave of exciting new music from some of today’s hottest names in rap, R&B, and beyond. From raw R&B confessionals to hard-hitting hip-hop projects and vibrant music videos, this week’s releases are setting the tone for summer. Here’s your essential guide to everything that dropped.
JID – GDLU: The Preluxe (Mixtape)
JID dropped GDLU: The Preluxe on July 4, a surprise four-track mixtape that serves as a warm-up for his forthcoming album God Does Like Ugly. The EP features collaborations with Eminem, Lil Yachty, and 6LACK, blending clever wordplay, smooth production, and JID’s signature rapid-fire delivery.
Jessie Reyez – Paid in Memories (Album)
Jessie Reyez returned on July 2 with Paid in Memories, a deeply personal R&B album that showcases her trademark vulnerability and powerful vocals. Throughout the project, Reyez reflects on family, heartbreak, personal demons, and resilience. The album mixes soulful ballads with more upbeat tracks, making it one of her most dynamic works yet.
JT – “Ran Out” (Official Music Video)
JT, known as one-half of City Girls, makes her solo mark with the fierce new single “Ran Out.” Released alongside its official music video, the track is a high-energy anthem filled with luxury, street grit, and flex-heavy lyrics. The visual complements her bold delivery with sleek, high-stakes imagery.
DDG – “That’s My Ball” (Official Visualizer)
DDG continues his consistent run with “That’s My Ball,” paired with an animated visualizer that features cameos from internet stars like Kai Cenat, Ludwig, ImDontai, and Valkyrae. The song blends playful, confident lyricism with a catchy beat, while the visualizer keeps the energy high with its cartoon-style graphics.
DJ Snake & J Balvin – “Noventa” (Official Music Video)
DJ Snake and J Balvin reignite their creative chemistry with “Noventa,” a feel-good reggaeton anthem infused with ‘90s nostalgia. The music video channels throwback VHS vibes, street dance parties, and summertime fun. It’s an infectious track that’s tailor-made for summer playlists and dance floors.
This week’s releases offer something for every listener. Jessie Reyez delivers soul-searching R&B, JID raises the lyrical bar with his mixtape, and JT, DDG, DJ Snake, and J Balvin bring the visual heat with stunning videos that demand replay.
Whether you’re in the mood for reflective ballads, intricate rap, or summer-ready anthems, these releases will keep your playlists fresh and your speakers booming.
