Music Videos
Baby Stone Gorillas Circle Corners in “Block Benders”
With their complementary styles and colorful SoCal charisma, the Baby Stone Gorillas approach street raps with an effortlessly endearing sense of fun. Returning to command the streets for their new video single, Top5ivee, P4K, 5Much, and EKillaOffDaBlocck share “Block Benders.” Over seductive piano and a crisp West Coast synth melody, the street rap quartet recount war stories and flex with an unbothered, romantic tact, as Top5ivee raps, “I used to tote it in the Jansport, and I’m gon get him what he asked for/And I’m gon get it out the mud, I ain’t never had to ask for it.”
Directed by YourJustNTime, “Block Benders” opens on the Gorillas blowing blunts over park benches, when 5Much receives a text from a curly-headed baddie asking him to pull up. With little hesitation, 5Much daps up the gang before pulling off in the SRT and heading her way. As his hook’s melodic serenade transitions into each member’s hard-nosed verse, 5Much drops off his passenger and circles back to the park to pick up the rest of the crew. Whether their opps are on the block or the baddies are calling, like the instrumental’s synth melody, the Gorillas are down to slide.
The video for “Block Benders” arrives following the announcement of The Military, the next Baby Stone Gorillas mixtape. Spanning 23 tracks, the mixtape refines the group’s hard-hitting West Coast sound, its glossy textures, funk-forward rhythms, and boosted bass adding emphasis to quartet’s raw lyricism. The only voices you’ll hear on the album belong to the Gorillas themselves, who shoulder the full trackload without outside features. With contributions from West Coast sound architects like RonRonTheProducer, Juneonnabeat, and more, The Military releases on February 10th via Park Money Records / EMPIRE.
The four members of Baby Stone Gorillas have known each other since they were 10-years-old, and were friends far before they dreamed of music stardom. The rappers have distinct styles and roles: 5Much brings a hustler’s mentality and vents about his life, while EK packs the energy. P4K is the proud instigator known for slick-talking raps, while Top5ivee often comes up with B.S.G.’s catchy hooks. Last summer, the group’s self-titled video racked up views in the millions, precipitating a winning streak of viral singles that included the Pitchfork–approved “Military,” which earned airplay on Drake’sOVOSound Radio, and “Untouchable” ft. RJMrLA, catching the attention of Shaquille O’Neal. The group made a major impact with their debut mixtape BABYST5XNE GORILLAS, released in March 2022, which earned praise from Pitchfork, SPIN, Audiomack, and many others, and featured “Keep Goin,” which The Los Angeles Times named one of the 100 Best Songs of 2022.
With The Military on the way and much further to rise, the Baby Stone Gorillas are on a mission to prove they’re the realest in L.A. Stay tuned for much more.
Watch “Block Benders” here!
Music Videos
J. Abram and Louie Valentino Unleash Bold New Visuals for Hit Single “Shake”
Bay Area’s J. Abram and Vallejo native Louie Valentino have turned up the heat with the release of the official video for their hit single “Shake.” The track, which dominated the summer playlists since its July release, now comes with a fresh set of steamy visuals that elevate the song to another level.
Directed by Kayso, the video brings viewers into an intimate, high-energy environment, featuring skilled dancers performing captivating pole routines and seductive choreography. The strip-club-inspired scenes are filled with flashing lights, sleek movements, and a sense of intensity that mirrors the electrifying vibe of the track. The choreography is fluid and enticing, perfectly matched with the song’s infectious beat, making it hard to look away.
“Shake” made an immediate impact over the summer, becoming a favorite for its hypnotic rhythm and catchy lyrics. The new music video continues that momentum, giving fans a visual experience that complements the track’s seductive sound. J. Abram and Louie Valentino’s dynamic collaboration shines through both in the music and the visuals, offering something that’s bound to resonate with fans and newcomers alike.
Now available for streaming on all major platforms, “Shake” and its bold new video are a must-watch, promising to keep the track on everyone’s radar well beyond summer.
Artist To Watch
Kyle Banks Celebrates City Life in New Single ‘Fantasies’ Featuring Eric Bellinger
Today marks a significant moment for R&B enthusiasts as emerging West Coast artist Kyle Banks releases his highly anticipated single, “Fantasies,” featuring the legendary Eric Bellinger. Set against the backdrop of California’s vibrant music scene, this collaboration is sure to resonate with fans who crave the smooth, infectious sounds that define West Coast R&B.
“Fantasies” immerses listeners in the exhilarating energy of city life, where fun and romance take center stage. Kyle Banks explains the inspiration behind the track: “Overall, the message of the song is having fun in the city. We’ve all caught feelings for a dancer before.” This sentiment encapsulates the playful yet relatable essence of the song, making it an anthem for those who embrace the nightlife and all its possibilities.
The partnership between Banks and Bellinger is particularly noteworthy. For Kyle, collaborating with Eric Bellinger represents a significant milestone in his career. “This song stands out to me because it’s with someone I used to listen to all the time coming up. It’s dope to finally release a song with one of my favorite artists,” he shares. Bellinger’s influence on Banks is evident, and this synergy shines through in their performance, creating a track that feels both fresh and deeply rooted in the R&B tradition.
Eric Bellinger is not just a collaborator; he’s a pivotal figure in the West Coast R&B scene. With a career spanning over a decade, Bellinger has consistently pushed the boundaries of R&B, blending contemporary sounds with traditional influences. His work as a songwriter for numerous artists and as a solo performer has established him as a key architect of the modern R&B landscape. Songs like “Focused on You” and “Treat Yourself” have solidified his reputation as a go-to hitmaker, and his ability to craft relatable narratives makes him a beloved figure in the genre.
The production of “Fantasies” is handled by the dynamic duo Meez & Louie Ji, who infuse the track with a polished yet lively sound. Their production style complements the artists’ vocals beautifully, creating an infectious groove that invites listeners to dance and unwind. The track’s vibrant instrumentation and catchy hooks encapsulate the spirit of celebration that Kyle and Eric aim to convey.
To visually complement this release, the official music video—directed by Koby—captures the carefree essence of urban nightlife. The visuals reflect the excitement and allure of city life, enhancing the song’s narrative and providing a stunning backdrop to the lyrics. Expect vivid imagery that showcases the dynamic energy of nightlife, making the video a feast for the senses.
As “Fantasies” makes its debut today, it signals a bright future for Kyle Banks and underscores the importance of Eric Bellinger in shaping the West Coast R&B sound. With this collaboration, Banks not only honors a musical hero but also establishes himself as a rising star in the genre.
Don’t miss out on this exhilarating new track—stream “Fantasies” now and immerse yourself in the magic of city life and love!
Artist To Watch
HussleBoyFetti & Ralfy The Plug Release New Single “Unfollow”
Quickly becoming one of the hottest new acts in West Coast hip-hop, Los Angeles’ HussleBoyFetti follows up his breakout singles “Liar” and “Energy” with a new collaboration with Stinc Gang frontman Ralfy The Plug called “Unfollow.”
The new hit is about distancing yourself from the clout chasers and leechers. Overall, the duo preach self-made qualities to succeed. Fetti delivers more of his charismatic laid-back flow blended with street lingo that creates magentic attraction for listeners both new and old.
He raps: “Sticking to the plan like I’m pose too / cup half full but that money is my coaster / It always gives me closure / I don’t really need to much exposure / Tell me what you want, what you really want, baby all I want is the money and the throat…”
Ralfy Da Plug displays a swavy demeanor as he coaches listeners on how to play the game without cheat codes that won’t make you an imitation of others. “Told them paid in full and I beat a couple RICOs / I can show you how to play the game with no cheat codes / Only thing I can’t stand is a bitch that freeloads,” raps Ralfy.
The new collaboration appears on HussleBoyFetti’s latest album, For The City, a six-song EP featuring Joe Moses, K. Ross, Xavii, and Chef Boy. Fetti’s journey has been a rollercoaster ride that has modified him to the exciting new star we witness today.
“Unfollow” has received tremendous praise across social media. A YouTube user commented, “Certified banger [fire emoji],” while another wrote, “King in the making [fire emoji] [crown emoji].”
Watch the new video below, and afterward, follow HussleBoyFetti on social media for daily updates and more.