Music

Lil Durk Avoids Phony Friends In His Paranoid ‘Backdoor’ Video

Durk’s 2020 takeover resumes with his first solo single since September’s ‘The Voice.’ …

After taking some time off to mourn the death of his late friend and labelmate King Von, Lil Durk returned last night with the release of a surprising music video for his new song “Backdoor.” Featuring the usual trademarks of his videos — jewelry, cars, and Durk’s crew — “Backdoor” sees Durk copping even more chunky necklaces for his collection, including one resembling Von’s signature O’Block chain. Durk also gets lined up by his barber, who helps keep him looking fresh as he smokes a cigar in the studio.

“Backdoor” may be Durk’s first solo single since releasing “The Voice” in September, but 2020 has turned out to be the Chicago rapper’s busiest year yet. While he’s always been something of a local celebrity, he received national exposure on a whole new level when Drake recruited him to contribute a verse to his buzzing single “Laugh Now, Cry Later” this summer.

Durk also expanded his range with verses alongside rising stars Bia (on “Same Hands“) and Queen Naija (on “Lie To Me“), further solidifying the growth of his brand. He also worked with some of the other biggest rappers to drop this year on collabs with Gunna on “Gucci Gucci,” and Lil Baby and local rising star Polo G on “3 Headed Goat.” His album, The Voice, is supposedly still in the works and on track for a 2020 release. A leaked version suggested it’s at least close to being finished but may also prompt Durk to wait for the new year to official drop.

Watch Lil Durk’s “Backdoor” video above.

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Album Review

R3b3l I explores self-discovery through sound on “A Different Frequency” album

In a music scene often ruled by lyrics, R3b3l I proves that you can tell a powerful story without a single lyric. “A Different Frequency” is a twelve-track instrumental hip-hop and rap-inspired album inviting you into a deeply personal journey of growth, self-discovery, and purpose, speaking its message purely through mood, rhythm, and expression.

“Dance Before the Throne” opens the album, immediately establishing the tone of reflection and reverence. From here, “Elevate” and “The Wave” continue, adding momentum and a sense of movement and change. Each piece is a chapter in a larger story, allowing you to interpret the music with your own experience.

Songs like “I AM Power,” “Level Up,” and “Awaken” seem to be a big part of the progression of the album. The energy is one of empowerment and inner evolution. “The Jazzy Hop” is a nice change of pace in style, with a smooth, groove-flavored taste that shows R3b3l I’s versatility. Meanwhile, “Carousel,” “Raindrops,” and “Heartbeat” are moments of introspection that balance uplifting themes with emotional depth and openness.

The project wraps up on an emotional high with “Ancestors,” a heartfelt tribute to the forebears and the invisible forces that still influence us on our journeys. It’s a fitting way to close out an album about connection, growth, and purpose. “A Different Frequency” is more than a collection of tracks with carefully constructed instrumentals and thoughtful sequencing, and it’s a rewarding journey for those who want immersive instrumental hip-hop with heart, imagination, and substance.

Connect with R3b3l I on | Spotify | TikTok |

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Artist Spotlight

“Signalling Signatures” finds Mr Pigeons exploring dreams, truth, and hidden meanings

While the first look at an upcoming project usually sets the expectations, Mr Pigeons does something more ambitious with “Signalling Signatures.” With this release, the hip-hop artist opens up a portal into “Shining Arras,” inviting you into a world where dreams, symbols, and hidden meanings collide.

“Signalling Signatures” is an exploration of the thin veil between reality and imagination, based on themes of altered consciousness and shifting perspectives. The song is a mix of mythology, film, and spiritual symbolism and encourages you to look beyond the ordinary and find the messages in everyday life. Mr Pigeons delivers with purpose and swagger, blending introspection with crisp storytelling. He also renders the abstract ideas of the song accessible.

The thing about “Signalling Signatures” that is so compelling is its sheer audacity to challenge you. There are no easy answers in this song, only a quest for truth, perception, and uncertainty. A good opening chapter to “Shining Arras,” and it manages to build up suspense as well as showing Mr Pigeons’ artistic vision. “Signalling Signatures” is a good introduction to what could be an interesting new creative phase for the artist.

Connect with Mr Pigeons on | Website | Spotify | X | FB | TikTok | IG |