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Erykah Badu, Teyana Taylor, H.E.R., & Brandy Link For “Ladies First” Cypher

An unforgettable moment during Tuesday (October 27) evening’s 2020 BET Hip Hop Awards has to be when four showstopping artists joined together for the Ladies First cypher. Teyana Taylor, Erykah Badu, H.E.R., and Brandy are all women dominating the Hip Hop and R&B circles, so it was only fitting that these women came together to once again debut their talents, this time to highlight all things womanhood. In the black and white clip, Ms. Badu dons the DJ cap as she starts things off by kicking off the beat. The familiar sound comes from Brandy’s classic 1994 hit “I Wanna Be Down,” and not only do the ladies give their performances over the track, the visual also mirrors the song’s music video.

Teyana opened things up with H.E.R. right behind her followed by Erykah while Brandy appropriately closed things out. Each artist tackled topics relating to Black womanhood and touched on socio-political issues that are prevalent to Black women. On Instagram, Brandy was thankful that her friends and fellow artists came together for this epic moment.

“BET Hip Hop Awards – Queen’s Cypher,” Brandy wrote. “And if they say sky is the limit then buy a cloud and if they can’t see us as an equal they not allowed. thank you queens.” Watch the cypher below and let us know what you think.

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Music

Tiri The Seed Breathes New Life into Nostalgia with ‘Back In The Room’

Tiri The Seed expertly blends vintage musical elements with contemporary production techniques in “Back In The Room.” This track pulsates with a retro vibe, yet maintains a fresh sonic identity, largely due to Tiri’s charismatic vocal delivery, which infuses the mix with an effortlessly cool energy. Thematically, “Back In The Room” explores the nuances of reconnection, encapsulating that poignant emotional experience of revisiting spaces or moments previously perceived as lost.

Musically, Tiri’s signature vocal timbre overlays an infectious rhythmic foundation paired with lush, sweeping synths, evoking the ambiance of a late-night drive down memory lane. The lyrics are crafted to provoke introspection while the production invites physical movement, striking a harmonious balance between nostalgia and celebration. Tiri’s warm delivery creates an intimate listening experience, drawing the audience into a shared reminiscence of formative moments. The track encapsulates a dichotomy of nostalgia and optimism, making it essential for those who appreciate a classic aesthetic imbued with modern sensibilities.

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Janet Noh Takes a Deep Dive into Vulnerability with ‘One Breath’

Janet Noh’s latest single, “One Breath,” presents a poignant exploration of emotional depth through a minimalistic sonic arrangement. The track harnesses dynamics and silence, allowing Noh’s nuanced vocal delivery to take center stage.

The single “One Breath” engages in introspective self-examination, showcasing Noh’s adeptness at lyrical composition that balances vulnerability with strength. Her phrasing and tonal choices exhibit a masterclass in expressive restraint, allowing listeners to engage with the subtle emotional undercurrents present in the music.

The listening experience is intimate, akin to sharing a personal revelation, which enhances the profound quality of the piece. As the final notes fade, the lingering resonance of the song invites reflection, echoing themes of hope and resilience that are striking in their simplicity. Janet Noh successfully cultivates an atmosphere of comfort and contemplation, which speaks to the listener on a personal and universal level.