It's closing in on Friday evening, the time of the week when you're finally in the proper headspace to digest all of the new music that's dropped over the past five days. There were a few major releases this week, including: DJ Khaled's superstar-studded album, Major Key, the soundtrack to the Nas-produced indie film "The Land," and new singles from guys like Mac Miller and Tory Lanez. Many of those drops were co-opted by the major streaming services, so on this week's Staff Picks SoundCloud playlist, we're left with some tracks of lesser hype; quality-wise, though -- this mix is outta the park.
First off, there are a few A-list regulars this week, including Waka, Curren$y, and Nipsey Hussle. The latter two seem to make an appearance just about every week. Nipsey's latest Marathon Monday track, "I Don't Stress" -- his 14th in a row, is one of his best yet.
The playlist kicks off with "Money Baby," the ultra-smooth new HNHH studio exclusive from Long Beach's Joey Fatts. He hands the rock to YG's right-hand man, Slim 400, and then the sounds go back to the percolating Georgia capital for Soulja Boy's first single as part of the Rich Gang team, "Rockstar," featuring gorgeous production from London on da Track. Elsewhere, you'll get acquainted with Kur, one of the most promising outta Philly, Verse Simmonds and his seamless take on the island fusion sound, and the teenage Delaware trap star Lil West.
Stream the new playlist and see each editor's picks below.
Angus Walker: Soulja Boy "Rockstar"; Nipsey Hussle "I Don't Stress"
Trevor Smith: Waka Flocka & Young Sizzle "Ball Hard"
Kevin Goddard: Verse Simmonds "In My Feelings"
Carver Low: Kur "Talk'N Like That"; Slim 400 "Can't Get Caught"
Rose Lilah: Joey Fatts "Money Baby"; Lil West "Boy West"
Danny Schwartz: Lil Wayne "That's Not Luv" (StreetRunner Remaster); Curren$y "Rolling Stoned"