Music
Chris Rock Reveals Which Modern Rappers He Likes Most — And Which One He’s Never Heard Of
The ‘Fargo’ star calls Kendrick Lamar ‘the truth’ and wonders ‘who’s the new albums artist?’ …
During his recent appearance on Showtime’s Desus & Mero, Fargo star and hip-hop superfan Chris Rock shared his opinions on modern-day rappers from DaBaby to Youngboy Never Broke Again. Rock is something of an aficionado of the genre, often incorporating references to hot rappers in his stand-up, appearing on rappers’ albums, and even making one of hip-hop’s favorite debate subjects the title of his 2014 film Top Five.
Responding to Desus’ question “What music you out here listening to,” Rock instead asks the Bodega Boy to “name a new rapper.” When Mero suggests “NBA Youngboy,” Rock admits to not knowing much about the Baton Rouge rapper but offers Pop Smoke as an example of someone he’s into. He then confesses, “I still like Kendrick [Lamar] and J. Cole.” He also wonders, “Who’s the new album artist? I like DaBaby but is DaBaby [an album artist]? There’s a lot of guys dropping hot singles — which is lovely — but I like to [have] a whole experience I can marinate on… Kendrick is the truth. That’s what I’m fiending for: That experience.”
Rock recently contributed to such an experience himself, appearing on Busta Rhymes‘ new album, Extinction Level Event 2: The Wrath Of God, which released this past New Music Friday.
You can watch the full interview above.
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.
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 |
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