
Ari Lennox's "Get Close," André 3000's "Ninety Three 'Til Infinity And Beyoncé" & More Tracks To Vibe To

The new music released this week is alluring in the sense that it seems like everyone has stopped to consider how they relate to others and how they see themselves. Some analyses ("Chanel Pit" and "First Person Shooter") conclude that they are fantastic individuals, while other analyses ("Red Flags," "These Four Walls," "Tummy Hurts," and "Get Close") leave artists feeling angry with the people in their immediate environment and the way they have been treated by them.
Other tunes, like "Ninety Three 'Til Infinity And Beyoncé" and Noname's recent Tiny Desk Performance, induce a sense of calm by encouraging introspection. This week's music, in contrast to previous weeks, exudes confidence and self-assurance. Although the artists are still seeking personal development, it's encouraging to see people recognize their own beauty and opportunities for growth without criticizing or punishing themselves for not reaching their goals.
Here are the top ten songs of the week, you'll be thankful you gave them a listen.
"ON THE RIVER (Live Session)" - Offset
If you haven't viewed this video and song yet, please do so immediately, as it is less than two minutes long. For what reason? Well, a variety of factors. First off, Offset's career is at its pinnacle. Following the release of his most recent album, SET IT OFF, Offset has demonstrated remarkable artistic development.
He has exceptional lyricism, and his creative approach is more methodical. With these changes since his 2019 album, it has been a delight to observe his superabundance of imagination.
This song "On the River" demonstrates just how strategic he has become in his artistry. With Kirby talking about the Mississippi River in the backdrop, Offset performs his song in a fast-paced flow with his son, Wave, acting as his hype-man. With his son in hand, Offset raves about his success and lists how he has gained riches since he left his group. When he begins talking about how these riches provide for his family, Wave begins dancing creating a charming father-and-son moment.
"First Person Shooter" - Drake ft. J. Cole
It was a wise choice for Drake to release "First Person Shooter," which features J. Cole for his newest single and video. This is mostly because the other tracks on the album For All the Dogs—aside from "Rich Baby Daddy," "8am in Charlotte," and "Calling For You"—are mediocre at best, if not downright dull. "First Person Shooter" was released a few days after Drake and Cole revealed their 2024 joint tour, and the song tracks the two artists as they talk about their present standing in the rap business and how they demand to be considered one of the best.
Drake discusses his lavish lifestyle, comparing himself to a Super Bowl game or concert, and how he nearly surpassed Michael Jackson, the greatest artist in history. He also touches on his ruthless and opulent lifestyle during the two verses he raps.
Conversely, Cole talks about how other rappers use his name as a kind of "beef" to start a rivalry with him in order to gain something from it. He also discusses his standing in the rap game as a result of the praise that his albums have received from critics, his notable feature runs, and his luxurious musical productions, all of which have led to him being regarded as one of the greatest rappers of the present generation. The video is fun and clever and in the end, you can't help but agree that they are two of the greatest rappers in the game.
"Chanel Pit" - Tierra Whack
Speaking of the greatest rappers in the game, Tierra Whack needs to be held in that regard, as well. Unfortunately, I am certain that her gender prevents many people from viewing her as such. Even more tragically, she is seldom ever acknowledged for her brilliance when people consider the female rappers who are currently dominating the rap scene. In any case, it's long overdue that Tierra Whack receives recognition for her artistic ability, and I hope this song contributes to that. She creates catchy, fun, lighthearted, and entertaining songs and frequently presents them in the same way. Is this among her finest compositions?
No. If you're looking for that you need to go to her 2018 album, Whack World, or listen to her singles "Only Child" or "Unemployed." Even yet, this song is nonetheless worthy of its popularity since she mumbles humorously over a Kalimba tune, and her strange lines about smells and sensory overload in a mosh pit are accompanied by massive, bass-heavy beats. The term "Chanel Pit" refers to a very real place, a recalls a time when a friend of Whack's noticed her perfume odor while she was at a performance with a mosh pit. The song serves as the first taste of Whack's next album, which is set to be released in early 2024. Judging by her previous singles, it might be something wonderful.
"Get Close" - Ari Lennox
My displeasure with Ari Lennox's lack of recognition is similar to my initial feelings of annoyance with SZA and Victoria Monét. Although the other two have finally begun to receive the credit they deserve, Ari has still been left out in the cold, receiving fleeting moments of acclaim. Despite being a fantastic singer and artist with a vast repertory, for some reason, not enough people have recognized her as the mainstream star that she truly is.
In her latest single, "Get Close," Lennox sings over the chorus with a melodic yearning, demanding her love get close in proximity, and emotionally.
The song is not long, and in all honesty, the song doesn't need to be—it lasts less than three minutes. The message doesn't have to take longer to reach its intended audience, because it is clear-cut and simple. She wants to be close to her lover. She gently draws his attention to his sporadic distancing, despite her worry, and reminds him of the occasions when it is appropriate to trust her enough to be close. So, she knows how obstinate he can be and when he might want to retreat. With this song, she may easily entice him back into her embrace and their inevitable bond.
"These Four Walls" - Khamari
In the sea of R&B singers, it is no surprise that the artist Khamari finds himself drowning in their artistry. Another artist deserving of recognition, his sultry voice is on full display in his newest single "These Four Walls." A song about loneliness and longing for love to come back to him, Khamari proclaims his love for his lover but is only met with disappointment at her ever-flighty behavior.
This forces him to place a higher value on the walls than he ought to because he perceives them as more trustworthy and consistent than the partner who ignores him, betrays him, and makes unobtainable and unreasonable demands. In the end, he sadly recognizes that the walls are the only things in his life that can provide stability and protection for his love's selfishness and although it is not something he wants, he realizes it's the only thing he has.
"Tummy Hurt" - Reneé Rapp and Coco Jones
I will admit that I am not a huge fan of Reneé Rapp. Although I don't have anything against the musician, I haven't found a song of hers that I find particularly noteworthy or that I care about enough to download. That was before today. I didn't anticipate this remix of "Tummy Hurts," coming out like this, but all of a sudden I was downloading and playing the song nonstop. Coco Jones, a five-time Grammy nominee (I love writing that), is featured on the remix, which has brought the song to life in a manner I never imagined.
Rapp starts the song by singing on how difficult it is to depend on her ex for both emotional and financial assistance while an electric guitar is strumming along. She showed him affection even though he wasn't worthy of it, and in exchange he showed another person his affection. She therefore only wants the best for the couple, but she also has a secret hope that they will learn a valuable lesson via the suffering of their predestined kid, whom Rapp hopes would suffer the same anguish she had. Jones reflects similar sentiments, wondering how the devil maintains all of his wicked traits while maintaining such a lovely appearance. It's entertaining to hear the vocalists belt over each other as they join the chorus and express their fervent desire for the demise of both his new partner and their ex.
"The Glass" - H.E.R. ft. Foo Fighters
Remember that time Imagine Dragons and Kendrick Lamar performed together at the 2014 Grammy Awards, and everyone thought, "What the f***?" and "Why the f***?" However, it ended up being a song worth listening to and one of the night's top performances. Well, that's the exact sentiments I expressed when I saw H.E.R.'s name next to the Foo Fighters. Though, unexpectedly this does not have much of the Foo Fighters on the song. Instead, this is a cover of Foo Fighter's "The Glass."
Reflective of her debut album, this song is very ballad-based and anthem-like, which isn't always a bad thing. But after hearing one ballad-like speech too many, it becomes redundant and leaves a lot to be desired with this chosen single. Her voice is beautiful, but once the song concludes, it doesn't leave much of an impression on the listener.
"Red Flags" - Brittany Howard
The excitement I hold for this upcoming album is simply unfathomable. And with the constant releases of her singles, I find that I am getting more and more excited as the weeks drag on. "Red Flags," Brittany Howard's latest single, is an emotional, expressionist rumination on a failing relationship.
Brittany Howard's "Red Flags" unfolds like an ethereal jazz emotional breakdown, except in her interpretation. The topic of the song is the propensity to see warning signs and to ignore them entirely despite knowing better.
Unlike the songs that Howard usually creates, this song leans less on the electric guitar and more on the funky and at times erratic beats of the drum, and Howard's low raspy voice told as if she is coming to some kind of realization throughout the song. When she finally acknowledges where she is at fault, her low rasp turns into a high-pitched scream of frustration.
"Ninety Three 'Til Infinity And Beyoncé" - André 3000
The music on the new album New Blue Sun, is lovely and a great example of how people may get more introspective as they age. André 3000 opted to use a flute, which has been an inspiration to him for the past few years, to produce an album because he wanted to make a rap record but had nothing to talk about. This album, which lasts for one hour and eight minutes, is a peaceful, serene experience as all of the tracks are at 432 Hz, the healing frequency for calmness and relaxation.
With "Ninety Three 'Til Infinity And Beyoncé," André 3000 crafts a catchy, melodious atmosphere that keeps you enthralled for over four minutes.
Noname: Tiny Desk Concert
Not many artists have returned to the Tiny Desk performances. When they do, however, Tiny Desk demands that they either come in a new version or give something completely different. The 23-minute performance included revolutionary raps from Noname's third album Sundial, as well as the premiere of an unreleased song by hip-hop trio Ghetto Sage, which includes her and longtime collaborators Smino and Saba. The album, Sundial, is a brilliant examination of American culture and marks Noname's first release in five years.
Noname is tired of the anti-critical positive culture we've fostered over the years and is disgusted by the way this movement has produced marketed performances that turn Black art and culture into commodities.
This record is remarkable, enlightening, and self-aware in a manner that Noname has never been before. She is not trying to portray herself as a revolutionary in this, but she is also not going to remain silent about the absurdity she is seeing all around her or for other people. Watch the entire 23 minutes of this performance, and become enraptured in the artist as she finally shows that she deserves to be recognized as a groundbreaking artist of her time.
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for daily love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Featured image by Ari Lennox/YouTube
'Sistas' Star Skyh Black On The Power Of Hypnotherapy & Emotional Vulnerability For Men
In this insightful episode of the xoMAN podcast, host Kiara Walker talked with Sistas star Skyh Black, as he opened up about his journey of emotional growth, resilience, and self-discovery. The episode touches on emotional availability, self-worth, masculinity, and the importance of therapy in overcoming personal struggles.
Skyh Black on Emotional Availability & Love
On Emotional Availability & Vulnerability
“My wife and I wouldn't be where we are today if both of us weren't emotionally available,” he shared about his wife and Sistas co-star KJ Smith, highlighting the value of vulnerability and emotional openness in a relationship. His approach to masculinity stands in contrast to the traditional, stoic ideals. Skyh is not afraid to embrace softness as part of his emotional expression.
On Overcoming Self-Doubt & Worthiness Issues
Skyh reflected on the self-doubt and worthiness issues that he struggled with, especially early in his career. He opens up about his time in Los Angeles, living what he calls the “LA struggle story”—in a one-bedroom with three roommates—and being homeless three times over the span of 16 years. “I always had this self-sabotaging thought process,” Skyh said. “For me, I feel therapy is essential, period. I have a regular therapist and I go to a hypnotherapist.”
How Therapy Helped Him Heal From Self-Doubt
On Hypnotherapy & Empowering Self-Acceptance
Skyh’s journey is a testament to the power of tapping into self-development despite life’s struggles and being open to growth. “I had to submit to the fact that God was doing good in my life, and that I'm worthy of it. I had a worthiness issue and I did not realize that. So, that’s what the hypnotherapy did. It brought me back to the core. What is wrong so that I can fix it?”
Watch the full podcast episode below:
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Featured image by
Pack A Travel Case With These 12 Items For Amazing 'Summer Vacation Sex'
It’s kind of funny that while I’m literally in the process of writing this article, the Los Angeles Times published “How to get lucky on your family vacation” hours prior. LOL. Although this year marks a bit of a dip in the amount of Americans who plan on taking a summer vacation (because this administration ain’t making coin-keeping easy, y’all) — it’s still being reported that around 53 percent will do so in the name of rest, relaxation and spending quality time with their loved ones.
And for many, the loved ones category absolutely includes their bae. And if that is the case, that probably means that sex is somewhere on the menu.
Yep. I actually read one survey (that consisted of 2,000 people) that said folks tend to have twice as much sex while they are on vacation than they do when they’re at home. It makes sense too when you factor in that you have less to do (unless you’re traveling with those folks who act like you need an itinerary for every damn thing — and we all know one…SMDH), which makes you less stressed out, which makes it easier to feel sexy and to want to get sexual.
And so, in the spirit of that indeed being the case, I want to make sure that you carve out a corner of your suitcase or carry-on to include at least half of the following 12 things that are on this list — things that can help to make “summer vacation sex”…that much hotter, y’all.
1. Edible-Grade Sunscreen
It can’t be said enough that, no matter how melanated you may be, your skin needs sunscreen. Not only to protect yourself from the risk of skin cancer (which 1 in 5 Americans will get in their lifetime) but from premature aging that can come from sun damage too. That said, if the urge arises to have sex outside somewhere, I did find some edible-grade sunscreen, in case you’re either worried about what sex in the sun will do to your skin or how all of the chemicals in sunscreen will affect your (digestive) system. The company is called Sky & Sol and you can read up on them here.
2. Flavored Lip Balm
If you’ve ever wondered why your lips are so susceptible to being chapped, it’s because they don’t contain any oil glans to keep them moisturized. This is especially important to keep in mind when the weather is extremely cold or hot because that can do a real number on the sensitive skin that your lips are made out of. That’s why it’s essential to stay well-hydrated and to also keep some lip balm in tow. Lip balm is especially designed to moisturize your lips, reduce chapping, exfoliate, soothe irritation and protect your lips from UV damage. As a bonus, lip balm will also help to keep your lips super soft and kissable; especially if you get the flavored kind. #wink
3. Condoms
I’m still out here, literally shaking my damn head, that reportedly, only one-third of men and one-fourth of women use condoms (and even many of those folks don’t do it consistently). It can’t be said enough that if you’re not in a monogamous (married) or exclusive (dating) relationship where you both are getting regularly tested and are on some other form of birth control (unless you want to get pregnant) — you absolutely should be using condoms and, as a woman, you should not solely rely on your partner to have some that are ready and available.
Not just because you should be responsible for your body and health but because not all condoms are made equal, so you should bring along some that you prefer/enjoy. If you’d like a lil’ help picking those out, check out “These Are The Kinds Of Condoms Your Vagina Would Actually Prefer.”
4. Crotchless Swimsuit
Packing some sexy lingerie? I certainly hope that goes without saying. If you’ve got a hot tub around, though and you want to “get it in” without getting totally naked (so that nosey people won’t see every damn thing), you do know that there are some crotchless swimsuits out in these streets, right? An example of one is here. Of course, you can always do what Beyoncé said in “Drunk in Love” and just move ish over to the side but…I’m just giving you another creative option…if you wanted one.
5. Blindfolds
If you’d like to cultivate an atmosphere of mystery or anticipation, a simple blindfold will do the trick. There is another reason why I think they are great for summer vacation (sex) trips, though — if your hotel room doesn’t come with blackout curtains and you want to have a quickie or two without the room being so bright, putting on a blindfold can solve that “problem” too.
6. Waterproof Sex Toys
Who said that you have to wait until you get to your hotel room to engage in some foreplay? If you bring a couple of sex toys around, you can tease each other practically anywhere — and if they are waterproof, that includes in the ocean or pool. Some, you can pair up with your smartphone in order to stimulate your partner from just about anywhere. Whew, chile.
7. Homemade Sex Toys Too
Speaking of sex toys, you’d probably be amazed at how many things in your house can double up as one. A spatula or wooden spoon is great for spanking. A necktie, some tights and a pair of clothespins work well for BDSM (use your imagination, sis). An electronic toothbrush is its own vibrator. A string of (lubricated) pearls in between your thighs? Girrrl…GIRL. Oh, and cop a silicone ice tray that comes in different shapes.
When you are rubbing ice in the shape of fruit, flowers or even animals over each other’s bodies, you’ll be surprised by how the combination of the cold with the texture of the space of the ice will stimulate you (make the ice out of juice instead of water for an extra sweet treat!).
8. Portable Charger
I don’t know what took me so long to get a damn portable charger but it’s one of the best things that ever happened to me. What I personally purchased is the ANKER Zolo Power Bank, 20,000mAh 30W High-Speed Portable Charger. I can throw it in my purse, it charges fast, I can use more than once before needing to recharge it; plus, it complements most devices. A great thing to keep in mind, so that your sex toys don’t end up going out on you while you’re…wherever you are.
9. Massage Oil Candle
Going through security at the airport can be a HEADACHE. And while, how long it can take, oftentimes varies on the airport you’re at and the time you are traveling (you can read more about that here), the process is going to be especially annoying if they have to go through your bags. Since you can currently only pack a quarter-sized bag of liquid products on your carry-on, my two cents would be to leave the massage oil at home and pack a massage oil candle instead.
That way, you can still engage in some temperature play (check out “Hot Sex: 10 Super Sultry Reasons To Bring Wax Play Into Your Bedroom”) while you’re on the road without going through any security hassle hang-ups. Some edible massage oil candles are located right here.
10. Wine Cooler Sleeve
Say that you end up going on a wine tasting tour while you’re on vacation and you end up purchasing a bottle or you simply want to toast with some champagne but you’re not sure how to store the bottle. Did you know that there are wine cooler sleeves that are lightweight, portable and will help to keep your bottles cold without condensation for hours on end? A brand that comes highly recommended is here.
11. Rose Petals
I think there are a few reasons why rose petals are oftentimes used to create a sexy mood. Red symbolizes love and passion. Rose petals are soft to the touch. The scent of them is considered to be an aphrodisiac as well. For all of these reasons, bring along some fresh rose petals for your hotel bed. If you put a damp paper towel in something like a small Tupperware container and then place the rose petals inside of that, they won’t dry out quickly which will make them feel great once you’re ready to start rolling around in them (you can also keep them in your hotel room’s fridge to further extend their shelf life).
12. Mints
Morning sex. Outdoor sex. Whatever kind of sex — it’s always going to be better when your breath and his smell good. And just so you don’t have to lug around a big bottle of mouthwash, pack some mints. Altoids are always going to be my number one draft pick — yet go with whatever are your personal faves. They’re the perfect hack for unbelievable summer vacation sex. Wouldn’t you agree? Enjoy!
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Featured image by Giphy