DMV-based rapper/producer Santa Sallet and France-based producer Nemizzo are MSP, presenting their new single “Big Hands”. Sallet has been busy showcasing his brand of East Coast braggadocious rap across a slew of recent singles like “Camouflage” (watch on Youtube), “I Get Money” (watch on Youtube), “Championship Ring” (watch on Youtube) and “Chinese Funk” (watch on Youtube) in preparation for the release of Plutography, Sallet’s forthcoming album which blends salsa beats, southern trap, and eastern jazz with classic and conventional rap samples, reflecting Sallet’s international upbringing across South Africa, Dominica and the US. Sallet is planning a series of full-length releases, among them C.R.E.A.M. which recounts his journey from broke to financially free, and Women and R.A.P. which describe his pursuit of success in relationships and the music industry respectively. “This is the song that really started MSP Tunes,” Santa says. “Nemizzo had laid down his verse and I was like, let me try something on this and I just talked about what I knew. What I think is funny, the outro is actually me recording a bunch of potential beat tags. There was a miscommunication and Nemizzo extended the beat and made it the outro. I like it though lol.” Check out Santa Sallet merch here.
KARRAHBOOO makes her return to hip-hop with “In The Hills,” a fresh collaboration with rising star Kyla Imani. This marks KARRAHBOOO’s first release since her split from Lil Yachty’s group, Concrete Boys, in July. The fallout sparked a public exchange of insults between the two, including a fiery rant from Lil Yachty on his birthday. KARRAHBOOO, however, had the last word when she teased new music in an Instagram Live session in September.
“In The Hills” blends Kyla Imani’s fun and soulful energy with KARRAHBOOO’s sharp lyricism and undeniable charisma. Set against the backdrop of California’s iconic Hollywood Hills, the pair throw a carefree party, cruising in a pink, vintage Mustang while singing about their dreams and ambitions. The chemistry between the two artists was key for Kyla, who spoke on their creative synergy.
“As a New York City girl living in L.A., I wanted to share stories that captured the vibes up in the hills. Collaborating with KARRAHBOOO was important because, though we’re different, we both have something to prove and push boundaries,” said Kyla. “‘In The Hills’ is about embracing life’s adventures and reaching new heights, something everyone can relate to.”
Kyla Imani first gained attention in 2014 with cover songs but made a significant breakthrough in 2021 with her viral rendition of Mooski’s “Track Star.” Her 2019 tour with DDG and hits like “These Boys Ain’t It” have cemented her as a voice for Generation Z, her rich vocals resonating with a new wave of young women. This collaboration follows her summer tracks “Chosen” and “Crush,” continuing her upward trajectory.
“In The Hills” is just the beginning, according to Kyla. “This isn’t just a song; it’s a preview of a powerful fourth quarter, setting the stage for an exciting 2025,” she said in a recent press release.
Fans won’t have to wait long to see more of KARRAHBOOO either. She’s set to join Mariah The Scientist and Latto on the “Sugar Honey Iced Tea” tour later this month.
Thai refugee artists Star2 and Seko release “Once In A While”, the heartfelt new single and music video. Both born in the Mae La refugee camp in Thailand, the artists draw on their rich cultural heritage with the song almost entirely sung in the Ka-ren language and the music video filmed in Thailand.
“Once In A While” features poignant lyrics that reflect the deep emotions of longing and love, such as “My tears I secretly wipe them away by myself / I love you so much, so whatever you say is never wrong / I’ll chase after you over a hundred times”. Tugging at your heartstrings, the song is beautifully layered with rich harmonies, delicate piano notes, and a backdrop of female vocals that evoke a sense of connection that feels both intimate and distant. As both artists deliver their verses with raw, unfiltered emotion, the feeling of lost love is one that is never forgotten.
Refugee pop meets hip hop artist Star2 fled his refugee camp as a child when the Burmese Army destroyed their village and attacked them in the middle of the night. Faced with overwhelming heartache and loss growing up, Star2 found his solace in music. He has collaborated with the likes of Soulja Boy, $tupid Young, Mozzy, MBNel, Luh Kel, Lil Poppa, HoodTrophy Bino, YSN Flow, and MarMar Oso just to name a few. Now, Star2 is on a mission to elevate the next generation of Ka-ren and Asian Artists.
Bronx, NY native CNRD links with Grand Khai for “Emotionless.” Performing over a spectral sounding instrumental, the pair deliver a relatable heartbreak tune that taps themes of betrayal and bluffs. Filled with thoughtful bars and emotive melodies, listeners take a journey through the ironic inner workings of a man who’s in fact encapsulated with emotion.