Artist To Watch
Rising Philly Hitmaker Lay Bankz Shows Her Versatility on Debut EP ‘Now You See Me’
Applying R&B vocal chops and sharp songwriting skills to club-style instrumentals, Lay Bankz is one of the most talented artist in a bustling Philly scene. The 19-year-old singer, rapper, and dancer continues to redefine what it means to be a club music vocalist on her debut EP, Now You See Me, out now. Assembled with assistance from her frequent collaborator JUMBO, the 7-track EP has no shortage of high-BPM bangers: “Ick” is a ferocious club-rap song about the moment sparks stop flying, while pre-release single “Throw Dat” is a relentless dancefloor anthem. On the other hand, Now You See Me gives Lay the opportunity to flex her vocal chops, on the trap-style, radio ready “Smackdown,” the slowed-down club beat of “IDFWU,” and breathtaking closing ballad “Flowers,“ a waltz-time plea for recognition that recalls torch songs by R&B divas past.
Now You See Me is home to Lay Bankz’s recent viral hit “Na Na Na.” An impossibly energetic, fast-paced anthem, “Na Na Na” is a clarion call to the dancefloor, as Lay builds on the titular playground chant with tongue-twisting bars, before floating over the track with a melodic bridge. To date, the song has generated 15.9 million global streams (1.9m global streams per week) and over 179K creates on TikTok. Recently mentioned as a potential Song of the Summer for 2023 by The FADER, “Na Na Na” has been featured on key playlists such as Spotify’s Most Necessary, Feelin’ Myself, Internet People and the cover of Jersey Club Heat. Filmed in Miami during spring break, the official music video has reached over 900k+ views, with over 170k YouTube shorts creates.
“Na Na Na” and Now You See Me continue to exhibit why Lay Bankz is one of the most exciting risers in hip-hop and R&B today. Lay Bankz first emerged onto the scene as a dancer, gaining a following on social media with her energetic interpretations of regional dance moves, like the “blick.” When she built a large enough platform, she showed the world her true talent with the viral hit “Left Cheek (Doo Doo Blick),” a club and R&B hybrid that generated nearly 450k creations on TikTok. The success of “Doo Doo Blick” established Bankz as a bonafide TikTok phenomenon–wit over 1.5 million followers and 61 million likes–and one of the most sought-after talents in the club scene–she showed off her chops on “PIANO,” a highlight from Bandmanrill’s debut album, and recently got a call from Ciara, who recruited Lay Bankz to appear on the “Dance Mix” of her new single “Da Girls.” Videos of Lay dancing with Ciara generated over 1 million combined views on TikTok. Lay earned critical acclaim from Pitchfork for her seamless club-n-b single “In My Bag,” and showed off her bars in a a performance with On The Radar. Most recently, she was mentioned by Complex as a Philly artist on the rise in their list of The Best Rap Cities Right Now.
Stay tuned for much more from Lay Bankz, as she continues to make waves as the new face of club music.
Stream Now You See Me EP
Black Skywalker, the rising artist with an undeniable buzz, drops his debut EP, I Need Therapy.
The new project promises to usher in the new era of hip-hop. “Rap music is in a dark place and I came to bring the light,” said Skywalker. “The type of music I make is best described as Outer Space Jedi-level rap shit.”
Black Skywalker and Chris Rosa produced the debut EP featuring the focus track “Pills and Alcohol”. The single describes a man battling depression and anxiety with prescription medicine and champagne.
The EP includes hard-hitting 808s, crackling snares, and spacey synths. “We in Love” is a melodic record with a bouncy bass and drums. However, the lyrics depict a flawed relationship due to social media and porn addiction.
Black Skywalker’s ‘Pain of Letting Go’ has huge production and raw guitar. The lyrics express deep emotion and heartbreak, making the EP’s inspiration very clear.
“Therapy” is a song that touches on the struggles of life and the importance of seeking help. The production is interesting, with dark verses and uplifting hooks. The second verse highlights the benefits of opening up to a therapist and encourages others to do the same.
“Slide with Me” is a standout track from the EP with great production and an infectious hook. It narrates the story of falling in love with the woman of your dreams and has an upbeat vibe that sets it apart from the rest of the EP.
EP delivers a relatable conversation, amazing production, and intentional songwriting. Black Skywalker calls it outer space Jedi-level rap music.
Check out the full EP below.
Fast-rising Charlotte recording artist DeeYounginn makes 2024 his moment and it starts with his latest single, “Right Now.”
In the latest visual, he cruises the streets in a foreign rapping about his undeniable impact, living a lavish lifestyle, and more. After gaining popularity with previous hits, the latest release is the perfect origin point for newfound fans as DeeYounginn rises to the moment as one of the year’s hottest new stars in modern hip-hop.
“Right Now” sets up the rising star’s upcoming album arriving in 2024. Check out the new video below, and, afterward, follow the rising star on social media for daily updates and more.
SoFaygo-producer Trenton Kyle handles instrumentation duties for Alternative act Bailey Snow‘s latest single “Pink Diamonds.” Following the release of “5150” back in March, “Pink Diamonds” is a fun upbeat song with catchy flows that centers around simply wanting more for yourself.
In a press statement, the North Carolina native revealed: “Pink diamonds speak to my future existence. It depicts everything I see myself achieving. Definitely something you can play anywhere; your car, a party, or whenever you need to hear something inspiring.”
Combining the genres of Hip-Hop, EDM, Punk, and Rage, Bailey Snow has successfully cultivated a unique brand of sonics in just a few short years. With the canny ability to set the mood for a kick back while simultaneously having you reflect on your darkest moments, his music paints a picture with words that allow listeners to see the world through his eyes.
Stream “Pink Diamonds” on your DSP of choice below via Nu Nation / Vydia and watch the visual for “5150” | HERE.
Black Skywalker Drops Anticipated ‘I Need Therapy’ EP
DeeYounginn Releases New Visual “Right Now”
Bailey Snow Shines Bright Like A “Pink Diamonds”
JORDI WINS RED BULL BATALLA SAN ANTONIO QUALIFIER AFTER AN ELECTRIFYING
The New West Coast Festival: A Revelation in the West Coast Music Scene
The New West Coast Festival: A Revelation in the West Coast Music Scene
Philly’s Dell Corcetti Shares Melodic New Song “Priceless”
Ann-Derie Releases “Maximum Capacity”
Nacho Soprano Shares “Mode”
JORDI WINS RED BULL BATALLA SAN ANTONIO QUALIFIER AFTER AN ELECTRIFYING
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Editorials3 days agoThe New West Coast Festival: A Revelation in the West Coast Music Scene
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Audio5 days agoPhilly’s Dell Corcetti Shares Melodic New Song “Priceless”
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Music Videos5 days agoAnn-Derie Releases “Maximum Capacity”
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Audio5 days agoNacho Soprano Shares “Mode”
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Features3 days agoJORDI WINS RED BULL BATALLA SAN ANTONIO QUALIFIER AFTER AN ELECTRIFYING
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Artist To Watch1 day agoBailey Snow Shines Bright Like A “Pink Diamonds”
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Artist To Watch9 hours agoDeeYounginn Releases New Visual “Right Now”
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Artist To Watch59 mins agoBlack Skywalker Drops Anticipated ‘I Need Therapy’ EP