Top R&B/Hip-Hop Releases This Week: Chief Keef, Max B, Jill Scott
Awards season is in full swing, and the realms of hip-hop and R&B are prominently featured. Teyana Taylor recently secured her first Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Paul Thomas Anderson’s film, “One Battle After Another.” This film has emerged as a leading contender for the Best Picture Oscar, taking home four awards in total.
Noteworthy Achievements and Nominations
Ryan Coogler’s movie, “Sinners,” starring Michael B. Jordan, won two awards, including Best Original Score by Ludwig Göransson. Looking ahead, Teyana Taylor is also nominated for Best R&B Album at the upcoming 2026 Grammy Awards, where Kendrick Lamar leads with nine nominations. Other notable nominees include Doechii with five and Cynthia Erivo competing in three categories.
Upcoming Events
In addition to the Grammy Awards, all three artists, along with Taylor and Jordan, are contenders for Entertainer of the Year at the 2026 NAACP Image Awards, which revealed its nominations on January 12, 2026.
East Coast Hip-Hop Highlights
On January 8, 2026, New Jersey rapper Fetty Wap was released from prison, 11 months ahead of schedule, after serving more than three years on federal drug charges. That same day, former President Trump stated to The New York Times that he would not pardon Diddy, despite Diddy’s attempts to seek a pardon.
Fresh R&B and Hip-Hop Releases
El-Balad highlights some exciting new music in the R&B and hip-hop genres this week. Here are the standout releases:
- Jill Scott – “Pressha”: Following her track “Beautiful People,” Scott returns with “Pressha,” a song exploring the challenges of love. This single is part of her upcoming album, “To Whom This May Concern.”
- Chief Keef – “Harry Potter”: In his new release, Chief Keef draws comparisons between his life and the iconic wizard. The track showcases his distinct style and lyrical flow.
- PHABO & Kiana Ledé – “Win or Lose”: This emotional song captures the complexities of a faltering relationship. It speaks to the deeper aspects of love beyond mere victories and losses.
- French Montana & Max B – “Ever Since U Left Me”: This upbeat track features a sample from KC & The Sunshine Band, setting the tone for a potential summer anthem.
- Moonchild, Robert Glasper & D Smoke – “Up From Here”: Featuring a smooth blend of vocals and instrumentation, this track encapsulates a feeling of resilience and hope.
- LeoStayTrill – “Blessing”: The track emphasizes focus and discipline while acknowledging the journey towards success.
These fresh picks reflect the diversity and talent within the R&B and hip-hop scenes, marking an exciting period for music lovers everywhere.
