New Music Friday: Dolly Parton, Drake, Tate McRae, 2Chainz + Lil Wayne, Alexander Stewart and More

his New Music Friday bubbles over with a diverse array of captivating releases poised to transform our weekend soundtracks. Ozuna whisks us away on a cosmic odyssey with "Cosmo," where Latin grooves meet avant-garde rhythms. Lil Durk, with "Nightmares in the Trenches," delivers an unguarded, reflective examination of his personal narratives. For aficionados of indie-folk, Wyatt Flores' inaugural album "Life Lessons" offers a warm, introspective haven. In an impressive feat of cross-cultural artistry, BIBI and Becky G's "Amigos" blends K-pop with Latin pop, forging a tune that's as distinctive as it is infectious. Each release shines a spotlight on the artist's talents and adds a fresh dimension to the music scene we love.

Tyla and Travis Scott, 'Water' (Remix)

Tyla, a rising star in the music industry, has collaborated with Travis Scott and Marshmello to release two new remixes of her hit single "Water". The original version of "Water" has been climbing the Billboard Hot 100 and is currently positioned at No. 18, while also ranking No. 5 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. It has topped both the U.S. Afrobeats Songs and World Digital Song Sales charts and received a 2024 Grammy nomination for the new best African music performance category. Travis Scott's remix of "Water" features his distinctive wavy flow, reminiscent of his work on the 2017 track "Know No Better" with Major Lazer, Camila Cabello, and Quavo. Marshmello's mix adds a new level of buoyancy to the track.

Drake, 'For All The Dogs Scary Hour Edition'

Drake's latest release, "For All the Dogs: Scary Hours Edition," is generating significant buzz, being released just five weeks after the drop of "For All the Dogs" on October 6. The "Scary Hours Edition" includes six additional songs, expanding the original album's content and offering new material for fans. Coinciding with this release, Drake and J. Cole announced their joint tour, "It’s All a Blur Tour — Big as the What.

Tate McRae, 'Exes'

Tate McRae, the multi-platinum singer/songwriter, has released a new single titled "Exes." This release follows her viral single "Greedy" and is part of her upcoming second album, "THINK LATER." The single was written and produced in collaboration with renowned hitmakers Ryan Tedder, known for his work with Taylor Swift and Beyoncé, and Tyler Spry, who has worked with OneRepublic and Anitta.

2 Chainz and Lil Wayne, 'Collegrove"

2 Chainz and Lil Wayne reunite for "Welcome to Collegrove," a sequel to their 2016 collaboration. This album is a celebration of their enduring chemistry, blending 2 Chainz's witty lyricism with Lil Wayne's unique flow. Tracks like "Money Maker" and "Feel a Way" highlight their synergy, offering fans a nostalgic yet fresh experience.

Alexander Stewart, 'He Never Will'

Alexander Stewart, the breakout pop sensation, has released his new single "he never will," a track from his forthcoming EP "if you only knew," set to be released on December 8th, 2023. "He never will" is co-written by Alexander and showcases his signature soaring vocals blended with anthemic drums. This track marks a departure from his usual style as it's the first song he's written from a third-person perspective. It tells the story of a friend in a relationship that seems doomed to fail. The song captures the moment of seizing honesty to help a friend realize their worth and not let them be taken for granted.

Ozuna, 'Cosmo'

Ozuna, the Puerto Rican reggaeton sensation, takes listeners on an interstellar journey with "Cosmo." This album is a fusion of Latin rhythms and futuristic sounds, showcasing Ozuna's versatility. The lead single, "Vocation," in collaboration with David Guetta, is a standout track, blending reggaeton beats with EDM influences.

BIBI and Karol G, 'Amigos'

BIBI, the dynamic South Korean singer and actress, joins forces with American Latin pop sensation Becky G in their single "Amigos". This collaboration marks a significant cross-cultural musical fusion, bringing together BIBI's eclectic artistry, showcased in her debut album "Lowlife Princess: Noir", with Becky G's acclaimed Latin pop prowess, evidenced by her string of hits like "Sin Pijama" and "Mayores."

Dolly Parton, 'Rockstar'

Dolly Parton, the legendary country music icon, has taken a bold step into the rock genre with her new album "Rockstar." This album, inspired by her 2022 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, features a 30-song collection, including 9 original tracks and 21 iconic rock anthems. Parton collaborated with some of rock music's most legendary artists, as well as today's biggest stars, to create this diverse and dynamic album.

Warren Zeiders, 'Sin So Sweet'

Warren Zeiders has released a new single "Sin So Sweet." This song is a part of his album "Pretty Little Poison." The lyrics of "Sin So Sweet" are deeply evocative and explore themes of intense passion and desire of relationship that is both addictive and possibly forbidden.. The blend of heartfelt lyrics and Zeiders' distinctive vocal style makes "Sin So Sweet" a notable addition to his growing discography.

Arcángel, 'Sentimento, Elegancy y Más Maldad'

"Sentimiento, Elegancia y Más Maldad," a 6-track album by Arcángel, features a mix of Mexican influences and Latin trap. Notable collaborations include Mexican artists Grupo Frontera on "ALV" and Peso Pluma on "LA Chamba," where Arcángel experiments with Mexican melodies in his vocals. The album also features a collaboration with Quevedo in "Los Roques," blending Latin trap with Quevedo's pop-rap melodies, and a track with Rauw Alejandro titled "FP." Arcángel reunites with his former musical duo partner, De La Ghetto, in the track "Yoshi," which also features reggaeton legends Jowell y Randy, bringing an old-school reggaeton flow.

Nicki Nicole and Bad Gyal, 'Enamórata'

Nicki Nicole and Bad Gyal have released a captivating reggaetón collaboration titled "Enamórate," which translates to "fall in love." This collaboration between Nicki Nicole and Bad Gyal is a vibrant addition to the reggaetón genre, blending their individual strengths and creating a song that resonates with themes of love, empowerment, and sensuality.

Red Velvet, 'Chill Kill'

Red Velvet, the South Korean girl group, has released their third studio album titled "Chill Kill." This album marks a significant return to their 'Velvet' concept after a four-year hiatus. The album opens with "Knock Knock," featuring bone-chilling harmonies and a sample of Tchaikovsky’s "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy," setting a haunting tone. The song is reminiscent of an Edgar Allan Poe tale, filled with imagery of desolate playgrounds and eerie self-reflections. Other tracks like "Nightmare" and "Bulldozer" continue this theme, with vivid storytelling and orchestral arrangements that evoke scenes from a Victorian gothic horror novel.

Teni, 'Tears of The Sun'

"Tears of the Sun," a sixteen-track album by Nigerian singer-songwriter Teni, is a significant addition to her discography. The album features collaborations with artists like Tayc, Made Kuti, and Odumodublvck, and includes previously released songs such as “No Days Off,” “Malaika,” and “Lanke.” "Tears of the Sun" showcases Teni's versatility as an artist, blending various musical styles and influences.

Emlyn, 'That's How You Make a Villain, Chapter 1'

Emlyn, the American singer-songwriter and producer, has released her sophomore studio album titled "​​​that’s how you make a villain – chapter 1." This album is the first part of a three-part series produced by Alex Veronneau, Andrew Tufano, Matt Ferree, among others, and includes contributions from writers like Alex Nobile, Alex Veronneau, and Andrew Tufano. "That’s How You Make a Villain, Chapter 1" is a continuation of Emlyn's journey in the music industry, following her debut album "loneliest b!tch in america" released in 2022. This new project reflects her growth as an artist and her ability to craft compelling musical narratives.

Lil Durk, 'Nightmares in the Trenches'

Lil Durk, in collaboration with his Only The Family collective, released their sixth compilation album, "Nightmares In the Trenches." The album reflects the gritty, authentic essence of Chicago's South Side, where Durk and his crew originate. Notable for its raw energy and unfiltered narratives, "Nightmares In the Trenches" includes tracks that eplore experiences and realities of street life, offering a vivid portrayal of their struggles and triumphs. One of the standout tracks, "Smurk Carter," sees Lil Durk paying homage to Lil Wayne, with lyrical nods to Wayne's iconic "Duffle Bag Boy" and scenes reminiscent of "Hustler Muzik" in the accompanying video.

More Music We'll be Listening to:

Reneé Rapp, 'Snow Angel' (Deluxe)

Madi Diaz and Kacy Masgroves, 'Don't Do Me Good'

Wyatt Flores, 'Life Lessons'

Timbaland and Vita, 'Desire'

Steve Aoki, 'HiroQuest 2: Double Helix'

Skygirl and Cosha, 'Thice'

Enhypen, 'Orange Blood'

Rowan Drake, 'The Long Breath'

Ashley Sienna, 'I am'

Oxlade, 'Katigori'

Wrabel, 'Based on True Story'

Cheat Codes, 'You Don't Even Know Me'

Absolutely, 'Cerebrum'

Knox, 'Girl on the Internet'

Nolan Taylor, 'Tear Drop'

Limoblaze, 'Over'

Emotional Oranges, 'Nowhere'