New Music Friday on September 20th brings an eclectic mix of sounds from some of the biggest names in music. From Future’s highly anticipated solo album return, Jamie xx’s genre-bending album of sonic explorations, Bad Bunny’s politically charged single, Lil Tecca’s slick pop-rap LP, and the rising star Osay dropping her catchy new track, there’s something for everyone this week.
Future – Mixtape Pluto
Future, the Atlanta-based rap heavyweight, returns with Mixtape Pluto, his first solo project of 2024. The 17-track album includes singles like “Too Fast” and “Lil Demon,” teased earlier this year, as well as the much-talked-about “South of France,” which garnered buzz after Travis Scott’s endorsement, despite no feature credit. This release follows a successful year where Future dropped two chart-topping collaborative albums with Metro Boomin, We Don’t Trust You and We Still Don’t Trust You. However, Mixtape Pluto is the artist’s first solo album since his Grammy-nominated I Never Liked You. Fans have eagerly awaited Future’s solo return, and Mixtape Pluto doesn’t disappoint, offering his signature blend of trap beats, swaggering verses, and catchy hooks.
The album serves as both a sonic evolution and a reminder of Future’s dominance in the rap game. From introspective moments to boastful flexes, Mixtape Pluto is a testament to why Future continues to be a dominant force in hip-hop.
Jamie xx – In Waves
Jamie xx and his latest release, In Waves, is a genre-defying triumph that pushes the boundaries of electronic music while maintaining a firm grip on melody and emotion. The British DJ and producer, best known for his work with the alternative group The xx, delves deeper into his role as a solo artist with this album. While his previous effort In Colour was a masterful blend of beats and samples, In Waves takes things to the next level by experimenting with unconventional song structures and vocal manipulations. The album shifts between traditional verse-chorus formats and more abstract vocal arrangements, with samples and beats interwoven into intricate sonic tapestries.
Standout tracks like “Life,” featuring Swedish pop icon Robyn, and the XX mini-reunion track “Waited All Night” show Jamie’s ability to blend familiar sounds with innovative twists. Whether through chopped vocal samples or atmospheric instrumentals, Jamie xx crafts a musical landscape that is both mesmerizing and danceable, blurring the lines between DJ set and songwriting in a way that feels fresh and exciting.
Bad Bunny – Una Velita
Bad Bunny with his new single, Una Velita, sees the Puerto Rican superstar returning to his politically charged roots. Released in the context of Puerto Rico’s upcoming gubernatorial elections and the seventh anniversary of Hurricane Maria, the track calls out the political failures following the disaster.
The song is poignant yet powerful, reminding listeners that Bad Bunny is not only a global music icon but also an active voice for social justice in his home country. Una Velita is a call to action, encouraging Puerto Ricans to remember their power and take control of their future. With this release, Bad Bunny shows once again that he’s more than just a reggaeton star—he’s an artist with something important to say.
Lil Tecca – PLAN A
Lil Tecca’s PLAN A showcases the rapper’s natural knack for creating infectious, pop-leaning rap tracks. Known for his smooth, melodic flow and ear for catchy hooks, Tecca has built a career on delivering songs that feel effortlessly cool. On PLAN A, he leans into this strength with a collection of 18 tracks that glide between different moods and styles. Whether it’s the funk-driven “TASTE,” the harder-hitting “120,” or the dreamy “NEVER LAST,” Tecca’s versatility as an artist is on full display.
One of the standout moments on the album is “I CAN’T LET GO,” featuring Don Toliver, where Tecca’s and Toliver’s melodic styles mesh seamlessly over a hypnotic beat. The album’s range of sounds ensures there’s something for everyone, and although PLAN A is a bit long, the brevity of each track keeps the project flowing smoothly from start to finish. Lil Tecca proves that his breakout success was no fluke, and PLAN A solidifies his position as a consistent hitmaker.
Osay – Come On
Osay, the Atlanta-based rising artist with Chicago roots, delivers a confident and catchy anthem with her new single “Come On.” Drawing from influences like Aaliyah, Missy Elliott, and TLC, Osay blends late ’90s and early 2000s R&B with modern hip hop in a track that empowers listeners to recognize their worth. The song’s catchy hook and rhythmic bounce make it a standout in her growing catalog, and the collaboration with producer Ocean Beats and fellow artist Remi Lekun elevates the song to another level.
Osay’s journey as an artist has been marked by resilience and self-discovery. After moving to Atlanta in 2018 and spending years honing her sound in a home studio, she released her debut EP Chapter One… in 2021. However, like many artists, she experienced burnout, stepping away from releasing music to rediscover the joy in creating. Now, with “Come On,” Osay is returning to her passion with renewed energy, ready to re-establish her presence in the music scene. The single highlights her evolution, not just as a songwriter, but as an artist confident in her voice and artistic direction.
Osay describes the song as a reflection on past relationships, particularly what she and her friends wish they could have said to a cheating ex. The song conveys a sense of self-worth, reminding listeners to never settle for less. With plans for more singles and an upcoming EP in 2025, Osay is certainly one to watch in the coming months.
Conclusion
This week’s new music bring a range of sounds and stories from some of the industry’s most exciting artists. Future’s return to solo work, Jamie xx’s boundary-pushing production, Bad Bunny’s politically charged single, Lil Tecca’s catchy pop-rap, and Osay’s empowering anthem all offer something unique for listeners. Whether you’re in the mood to dance, reflect, or get lost in powerful beats, this week’s New Music Friday has something for you.
