New Music Friday: Rico Nasty Goes Punk-Rap Therapist, Rihanna Smurfs Out, and Hip-Hop Gets a Royal Return
- Jessica Ramirez
- 19 hours ago
- 3 min read
New Music Friday just dropped hotter than your ex’s mixtape. Pop? Hip-hop? Rihanna Smurf anthem?! You won’t believe who collab’d with who—or why Rico Nasty might be your new life coach. Dive in… if you dare.
New Music Friday, that sacred temple of sonic freshness where the music gods drop their weekly gems. And this May 16, 2025? They delivered. Whether you're vibing in your car, grinding at the gym, or just scrolling TikTok pretending to be productive, this week's hip-hop and pop releases have got you covered.
-Hip-Hop Hits to Put on Repeat
Rico Nasty – LETHAL
Let’s be real—Rico Nasty isn’t just dropping albums; she’s dropping personality bombs. Her latest masterpiece, LETHAL, is a glorious mix of rap-rock chaos, raw vulnerability, and straight-up bad b*tch energy. Songs like “Smile” are basically punk rock therapy sessions where Rico explores motherhood and inner peace while still threatening to destroy your speakers. She’s channeling bell hooks, Tina Turner, and probably three monsters from your nightmares—and somehow, it works.
Aminé – 13 Months of Sunshine
The sun is out, the vibes are immaculate, and Aminé is back with 13 Months of Sunshine, his most culturally rich and sonically adventurous album yet. It’s Afrobeat meets Hip-Hop, seasoned with some silky R&B and just a splash of Portland weirdness. It's like a musical passport stamped in Ethiopian pride and lo-fi coolness. "Vacay"? Certified summer anthem. "Familiar"? Already stuck in your head.
Tee Grizzley – Forever My Moment
Detroit’s hardest storyteller Tee Grizzley returns with bars so gritty they should come with a warning label. Forever My Moment is packed with tales of struggle, survival, and sauce. If you like your hip-hop served real, raw, and with a side of heavy bass—this one’s your dinner.
Xzibit – Kingmaker
Surprise! Xzibit just reminded us he’s more than “Pimp My Ride.” Kingmaker is a throwback banger with modern-day firepower. West Coast legend status? Reconfirmed. It’s like Dr. Dre met AI and decided to drop a philosophy class over beats.
-Pop Power Moves
Damiano David – Funny Little Fears
Ever wondered what it would sound like if Måneskin's frontman and Labrinth made a dreamy pop baby? Funny Little Fears answers that question in the best way possible. With polished production, introspective lyrics, and just enough drama to make you question your last three breakups, Damiano David is turning heartbreak into an art form—and your Spotify history into a confessional.
Rihanna – “Friend of Mine”
Rihanna, the queen of teasing us with drops like breadcrumbs, has gifted the world a new single: “Friend of Mine.” It’s from the upcoming Smurfs movie (yes, she’s Smurfette now), and it’s adorably addictive. It’s not quite “Work” levels of iconic, but it’s got that classic Riri charm, and honestly, we'll take anything at this point. Album soon, please?
-Singles You Can't Skip
Calvin Harris & SZA – “Blessings”: Sunshine, synths, and SZA's soul—thank us later.
Victoria Nadine & Kygo – “Can’t Get Enough”: A beachy bop that sounds like it was produced on a hammock.
Tiesto & Goodboys – “Won’t Be Possible”: House party starter pack, activate.
Go ahead—hit that Spotify New Music Friday playlist, update your queue, and get your weekend started with something new. Your earbuds will thank you. Stay tuned for updates and more in-depth coverage of your favorite celebrities and entertainment news! Create a free membership account with us today!
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