Ain’t Givin’ In, a new single from German music producer Echo Lair, is a defiant musical statement where the artist rails takes a stand addressing many of the cultural and political pressures of contemporary society. His charismatic vocal presence drives the action against a smooth groovin’ backdrop. Echo Lair is an impressive lyricist, managing to pack a lot of substance into an average length song and then delivering the words with passion and timing. This isn’t a frivolous kickback jam or recreational chit chat rap about hooking up with women and taking fun pills. Rather, this song commits itself completely to the subject of social change. It’s more of an “anthem” really, a wake up call. Ain’t Givin’ In is like like a monologue plea encouraging positive action. It’s also a well-produced hip hop song that someone could probably still enjoy even if the message doesn’t resonate with them 100%.

For more info:

http://www.echolair.com/

19 year old musical prodigy Stephon Foster is back from a two year hiatus with this “comeback” single, Boy, I Quit. It’s a smooth and heartfelt R&B jam with a quick enough pace and crisp enough beat that you can still dance to it. Passionate emotions are cloaked within the songs laid back ambiance, as deep seated feelings brim just below the surface. Like the cover art and title suggests, this single is essentially a love / break up / last chance letter to someone, but really it can be a metaphor for almost any situation where you might me ready to give up on something or someone, even yourself. The assertive, life affirming message is delivered in a very lovely and non-aggressive musical tone. The song is very bright actually and doesn’t come off as depressing at all. Stephon has a pretty voice that’s easy on the ears. I’ve often said that R&B / pop is one of the most difficult genres to sing (except maybe opera) because of all the fluctuations and dynamicism required within individual words. The artist manages to pull it off here. Evoking feelings of empathy and understanding, Boy, I Quit is a respectable second act for Foster and lest we not forget…Stephon is only 19 years old. There will be plenty more in store for the future.

For more info:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/boy-i-quit-single/1451668857

San Diego based, Houston born hip hop artist Lew Houston has a new jam out called Safe. He has a southern style for sure, with a crisp, clear delivery and a “very matter of fact” way of speaking. The song features some choice lines, such as Last place cause you’re too soft, sandman get booed off, red nose like Rudolph… The track mostly has a slow, chill beat, though Houston occasionally picks up the delivery pace at certain moments for maximum effect. Production on this track is very good for an indie hip hop song. One thing I really like about it is that Houston doesn’t use a ton of processing and annoying effects on his vocals the way many rappers do. He demonstrates solid vocal presence, and I get the sense this guy is all about handlin biz.

For more info:

http://www.instagram.com/lew_houston