Drake's "8AM In Charlotte," Tyla's "Water" & Other Singles To Have In Rotation Now
This week's new music list has something for everyone, which is fantastic given that many of us are beginning this cuffing season in very different places. Whether you're still reveling in the freedom that came with your summer flings ("Yea Yea" and "Water"), looking for something more serious and long-lasting ("You're Hired," "Link Up," and "Give It To Me"), or simply basking in your best life ("Champagne Shit [Remix]" and "8AM in Charlotte," here are the week's top new tracks.
"Yea Yea" - Lady London with Dreezy
The most recent song "Yea Yea" by Lady London and Dreezy continues the 2023 theme of paying tribute to the music videos from the late 1990s and early 2000s. The music video for "Yea Yea" takes cues from Destiny Child's "Bills" and "Soldier," replicating its salon setting and brilliant colors in one scene and beautifully black and white cinematography in the other. The usage of the video as inspiration is amusing since it makes us think of the trio we sorely miss.
However, when we learn that in both songs, the girls are demanding a man—or soldier—deserving of their love and affection, the decision to employ this background becomes intriguing, especially when it becomes clear that this time around, the rapping duo wants something completely different.
The two rappers nonchalantly discuss their significance in their respective men's lives and how confident they are in their appearance and sexuality to make anybody who glances their way weak in the knees. They state that although they are aware that they are a popular item, they have no desire to become someone's one and only.
By the song's conclusion, the two rappers are playing off one another's flows and making it apparent that they have no intention of finding love this cuffing season.
"Water" - Tyla
The "Water" dance challenge is the most recent trend to take over TikTok. You have undoubtedly heard this song while getting enticed to see a series of dance routines that have several people moving their hips and crooning to the tune of "Make me sweat, make me hotter, make me lose my breath, make me water." The South African musician Tyla's song "Water" was released near the conclusion of the summer. It soon gained popularity as listeners became enthralled by Tyla's harmonies and demanded to blow her mind and seek her soul.
The melodious tune blends pop, R&B, Afrobeats, and amapiano to produce a catchy chorus and seductive lines. Although the single was released in the summer, with the help of its new music video that was released Friday, "Water" has now given itself the opportunity to go beyond the social media platform and have a chance to reach the charts as it should.
"Give It To Me" - Miguel
The title track from Miguel's latest album, Viscera, "Give It To Me," talks about chemistry and how it tends to draw people closer together. The song "Give It To Me" demonstrates Miguel's creativity on a whole new level.
As fans, perhaps we've grown so accustomed to Miguel's creativity that we've stopped recognizing how well he creates a distinctive yet recognizable sound with each album. The song, which combines R&B with industrial sounds, has a mellow, seductive atmosphere throughout the majority of the song before switching to a more organic and sensual approach in the closing seconds.
Similar to the audio, the graphics are minimal and largely consist of neon-lit views of Miguel and his leading woman flashing their bodies and cuddling while the camera rotates around them. Nevertheless, Miguel uses an electric guitar and breathless declarations to create a soulful and passionate tune over a simple rhythm and engaging beat.
"Link Up" - Ne-Yo
I'm not sure whether this video fits the season, but as SZA and Jean Dawson pointed out a few weeks ago, California doesn't really have seasons, so it could still be applicable today. But even if the video isn't, the song most definitely is. "Link Up" by Ne-Yo offers the suggestion of transforming another's life if given the opportunity to "link up," and was probably written to be a cuffing season anthem, or at least a very trustworthy second best. In this single, Ne-Yo offers love, luxury, attentiveness, change, and other limitless possibilities, in contrast to the other suitors.
As would be anticipated from the R&B singer and notorious lyricist, the song is straightforward and infectious, while the music video is entertaining and, at times, endearing. The only criticism I would have for the song is that it did not come out sooner. As it would have paired nicely with Usher's summer release of "Good Good," or Tinashe's "Uh Huh." Regardless, the song is definitely worth the listen and might even encourage a shimmying of the shoulder or two.
"You're Hired" - NEIKED ft. Ayra Starr
There are certain tunes that simply enchant you without fail. NEIKED's song "You're Hired" feat. Ayra Starr is among such tunes. Ayra Starr, who is content being alone and isn't looking for a relationship, becomes captivated by a possible suitor and promises to make him her lover in exchange for his willingness to fulfill her wants. She begins to entertain the notion of dating him after seeing that she behaves differently around him, in the greatest manner possible, and she openly offers to share the love she has been nurturing for him. It's a sweet tune that puts a grin on your face in a manner that only a new love could.
Regardless of whether he accepts her offer to play the part, it is great to hear a song that sings about love without making it seem like it must happen or one of them will be unable to move on. The song brilliantly depicts the sensation of having a crush and wanting to spend every waking moment with your newfound favorite person.
"Me & U" - Tems
Her first solo single since 2021, the Nigerian singer Tems has returned with a forceful comeback in the style of her most recent track, "Me & U." Originally made with a Drake feature, the single demonstrates Tems' amazing capacity to shine on her own when she places faith, instead of love, front and center.
With the removal of the rapper, Tems is able to explore themes of self-discovery in this lyrical song, creating a sincere connection to God as she learns who she really is, forges sincere connections, and develops a true understanding of herself. The song's simplicity and freedom as Tems discovers herself and learns to love herself makes it wonderful and liberating to listen to.
"Me & U" has the appearance of being a very straightforward love song as Tems sings of companionship and complete surrender as she croons over a softly strumming electric guitar. However, it's not really a love song in the conventional sense; instead, the song focuses on the relationship between the divine and the individual. Directed by the singer, it is amazing to watch Tems in her white gown perform her exquisite dance in the heart of a lush forest and against the azure waves of the sea.
With poignant narration with her distinctive, enticing musical style, "Me & U" shows audiences why Tem's two-year independent single hiatus was well worth the wait.
"Another Love Song" - Toosii
The only thing that makes Toosii's "Another Love Song" a love song is its name. As soon as the song starts, Toosii declares to the listeners that he is sick of the clichéd love song trope. This is primarily due to the fact that he is aware that, regardless of what he composes and sings, there is a good possibility he will be the object of someone else's incapacity to love. But it doesn't stop him from making an attempt at a love song.
He still holds out hope that love will find a way to be on his side despite everything. He occasionally cries out for the love of his life to come back and treat him well. Sometimes, though, his knowledge of himself overcomes him, and he is unable to win back his love before revealing the reasons he shouldn't have even given her a chance.
However, as in any relationship, two people are found to be at fault, and he recognizes that his constant faults are mostly to blame for the reasons he may be pleading. He's sick of love songs, but perhaps he is tired in the sense that he keeps attempting to write them as a sort of repentance. While this is going on, his love gets weary of his endless sorrowful ballads when he has the power to choose to love her rightly from the beginning.
"Champagne Shit" - Janelle Monáe ft. Latto and Quavo [Remix]
With this remix, these n****s about to make a whole lot of money.
The churchy organ chords of "Champagne Shit" provide a rallying cry that is difficult to ignore as Janelle Monáe rides a wave of intoxicated ecstasy with guests Latto and Quavo. As they sing an homage to the good life and the leisure its abundance brings, the group is in a relaxed state of mind. Monáe's comments about flinging "tips" and "hips" set the jovial tone, and Quavo amps it up with comments about having "ice" on his collar and "champagne" on his wrist, as well as countless models holding bottles. Complimentary to the others, Latto, who is having the best year of her career, laments a passionate verse about the need to be treated like royalty and her desire to reward the people she loves as well.
With the inclusion of the two rappers, Quavo delivers the ad-libs that make every Migos song so pleasant to sing, while Latto produces a swag that makes it difficult to resist moving one's hips or skipping as instructed by Monáe. Despite the fact that this partnership is not novel, and most likely won't turn too many heads, its remix possesses the jovial effect of friends who have finally succeeded in their endeavors, which will have the song playing on almost everyone's playlist.
"Homicide" - 6LACK and Jessie Reyez
My entire face breaks out in an unrelenting smile when I see the names 6LACK and Jessie Reyez listed next to one another. The duo reunites for their third collaboration, "Homicide," following years of friendship and mutual respect for each other's artistic abilities. They first collaborated in 2019 on the notoriously crooned "Imported," where the two sang about happily being someone's second choice. Now, the two musicians' long-standing friendship is evident in the exquisite mixing of their equally alluring vocals for "Homicide."
In this song, which depicts a sad waltz between two lovers, the two musicians vividly capture the subtleties of intense love and infatuation. While being propelled by this guitar-driven rhythm that surprisingly integrates trap beats and heavy bass, 6LACK and Jessie Reyez explore the concept of toxic relationships where partners cheat for sport. Meanwhile, exes are forced to see intimate meetings through windows.
While the 6LACK shines with his signature gloomy sound, Reyes' strong and rebellious vocals much outweigh those of her partner as she demonstrates her willingness to join a harmful relationship for its amusement and unpredictability.
"8AM In Charlotte" - Drake
Dressed in colorful hair clips, big leather leggings, and a "Hate Survivor" hoodie, Drake explains the origins of the album cover's artwork at the start of the video. In a lengthy explanation provided by his son Adonis, Drake tells the listeners that the album cover shows how important he feels he has been to the hip-hop genre during the previous 15 years of "dominance." Following the release of "Slime You Out" in September 2023, "8AM in Charlotte" is the second single from Drake's eighth studio album For All The Dogs.
In this song, Drake considers the burden on his "moral scale" as he gets ready to go on tour and encourages up-and-coming musicians to save a portion of their earnings as Andre 3000 did in "Hollywood Divorce." Drake's video is straightforward and narrated with a shaky cam as he contemplates how long he is prepared to harbor resentment against doubters and those who continue to attempt to thwart his unstoppable success.
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 via Drake/YouTube
Taysha Robinson is a writer and high school English teacher, based in metro-Atlanta. A self described philomath, you can find her reading books and articles of every genre, attending educational conferences, and hiking wherever the terrain will allow.
There’s just something about HBCU Homecoming that just hits different. Whether it’s your first time stepping onto the yard since graduation or you’re a regular at every Homecoming tailgate, HBCU pride is undeniable. It’s a vibrant celebration that unites the legacy of excellence and tradition with the energy and resilience of Black culture.
The experience goes beyond a typical college reunion; HBCU Homecoming is a family reunion, a fashion show, a cultural festival, and a week-long turn-up that embodies what it means to be unapologetically Black and educated. For HBCU alumni, the journey back to the yard each year is rooted in a love and pride that’s hard to put into words but impossible to deny.
From statement pieces to tech must-haves, every item represents the intersection of Black pride and HBCU love, ensuring that you show up to the yard in style and with intention. So whether you’re repping your alma mater for the first time since graduation or looking for fresh pieces to express your HBCU pride, these essentials will have you standing out, because, at HBCU Homecoming, it’s not just about showing up—it’s about showing out.
Thread Goals
diarrablu Jant Pants in Alia Noir
High-waisted, wide-legged, and ready to shut down the yard, the Jant Pants by diarrablu bring a whole new meaning to campus chic. Handcrafted in Dakar, Senegal, these free-flowing jacquard pants are perfect for stepping onto the yard with style and ease—making them a must-have for any HBCU alum’s closet.
Silver & Riley Convertible Executive Leather Bag Classic Size in Olive
This all-in-one luxury bag isn’t a bestseller for nothing. The Silver & Riley essential is made of Italian calfskin leather and thoughtfully designed, as it can be worn in four different ways: a shoulder bag, crossbody, a top handle, and a backpack. Chic and elegant, the Convertible Executive Leather bag is “the bag that every woman needs in her collection.”
Renowned Women's Intuition Cotton Graphic T-Shirt
Renowned
Renowned’s Women’s Intuition Cotton Graphic T-shirt features a bold graphic print inspired by the power and essence of women’s intuition. With its striking design, this all-cotton tee is a vibrant thing, making it a statement piece that celebrates feminine energy.
Mifland Million M Mesh Crop Shirt
Talk about bold, the Million M Mesh Crop Shirt combines edgy style with comfort, featuring Mifland’s signature print on a semi-see-through mesh fabric. Show up and show out in sophisticated flair.
HBCU Love FUBU
Melanin Is Life Melanated & Educated - I Love My HBCU Hoodie
Show off your HBCU love with this piece that represents everything you gained from your alma mater: a top-tier education, a community that lifts you up, and a deep sense of esteem for yourself and your culture. Wear it loud and proud, because being melanated and educated isn’t just a flex—it’s a legacy.
HBCU Culture Spelmanite Sweatshirt in Navy
Spelmanites, rep your Spelman pride with this unisex crewneck sweatshirt, designed for ultimate comfort and a relaxed fit. Made from a cozy cotton/polyester blend, this classic sweatshirt is as durable as it is stylish—making it an ideal piece for any Spelmanite showing love for their alma mater.
HBCU Culture Howard Is The Culture T-Shirt
Rock the ultimate flex by showcasing your Howard U love with HBCU Culture’s Howard Is The Culture t-shirt. This unisex tee offers a comfortable, relaxed fit that’s perfect for celebrating your HBCU spirit without sacrificing style or comfort.
DungeonForward FAMU - Strike Bucket - Reversible
DungeonForward’s Strike Bucket Hat brings versatility and style to the FAMU Crown collection with its reversible design, giving you two looks in one. Featuring a sleek black snakeskin-embossed brim lining and a bold outline Rattler emblem, this hat is all about repping your Rattler pride in style.
DungeonForward Savannah State University - HBCU Hat - TheYard
The Savannah State University HBCU Hat by DungeonForward is more than just a hat—it’s a symbol of Tiger pride and a nod to the culture. Perfect for gamedays, tailgates, or just showing off your HBCU love, this hat lets you carry a piece of the yard wherever you go.
Tech the Halls
Anker iPhone 16 Portable Charger, Nano Power Bank
Stay charged up with the Anker Nano Power Bank, which features dual USB-C ports, a foldable connector, and a compact design, making it perfect for those HBCU tailgates and late-night parties you pull up to.
Drip Check
Wisdom Frame 14 Square Sunglasses
Elevate your look with these angular square-frame sunglasses by Wisdom, bringing an ultramodern edge to any outfit. The sleek design makes them perfect for blocking out the haters while you stunt on the yard.
Coco and Breezy Eyewear Fortune in Gray Turquoise
The Fortune Glasses in Grey Turquoise is a bold statement piece to any Homecoming weekend ‘fit that “embody our fearless and outspoken DNA.” With their color and edgy design, these frames by Coco and Breezy are perfect for anyone looking to stand out and express their unapologetic confidence.
Howard U Lapel Pin
Rep your Bison pride wherever you go with this Howard U Lapel Pin from Pretty AmbVision. Whether adding it to your jacket, shirt, or bag, this pin is the perfect way to showcase your love for your alma mater while rocking your HBCU love with honor and distinction.
Mifland Standard Rucksack Mini
The Standard Rucksack is designed to evolve like that HBCU pride—getting richer, bolder, and better with time. Durable, stylish, and built to last, this Rucksack by Mifland is a timeless piece equipped with versatile carrying options and fully adjustable back straps for ultimate comfort.
Stay Fresh, Stay Blessed
Slip Pure Silk Sleep Mask in Pink
Keeping it cute starts with beauty sleep. This luxurious silk mask is an essential for a reason. If protecting your skin and waking up refreshed is your priority, look no further than this Homecoming essential.
Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier Lemon Lime - Hydration Powder Packets
Stay hydrated and energized throughout Homecoming weekend with this Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier in Lemon Lime. Just add a packet to your water bottle, and bless your body with 2-3 times more hydration than water with every packet. Because staying hydrated is the key to popping up and showing out all weekend long!
Loop Experience Plus Earplugs High Fidelity Hearing Protection
Designed for your hearing protection, these sleek earplugs reduce noise without compromising sound quality—perfect for enjoying the band’s halftime show, late-night parties, and DJ sets. Whether you’re front row at the step show or hitting the yard, your ears deserve to be protected in style!
Black Girl Magic Glass Cup
Sip in style and celebrate your melanin with the Black Girl Magic Glass Cup. Perfect for morning coffee, your favorite iced drink, or showing off your HBCU pride on the yard—this cup is all about keeping it cute while radiating your endless supply of Black Girl Magic.
Glow Up & Show Out
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
What Homecoming weekend can be complete without an assist from this beauty find? Formulated to blend seamlessly into melanin-rich skin (no white-cast), protect your glow while you turn up with the Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30.
Sienna Naturals Issa Rae's Wash Day Ritual Set
Issa Rae’s Wash Day Ritual Set from Sienna Naturals includes the H.A.PI. Shampoo, the Plant Power Repair Mask, Dew Magic, and Lock and Seal to get your crown right. Whether you’re repping your coils or rocking a new color on the yard, these products restore and nourish your strands, keeping your hair healthy, strong, and Homecoming-ready!
54 Thrones Ivorian Cocoa + Ghanaian Coconut Beauty Butter
Stay glowing from the tailgate to the after-party with the 54 Thrones Ivorian Cocoa + Ghanaian Coconut Beauty Butter. Infused with African-sourced ingredients, this rich, multi-purpose butter is the answer to keeping your skin soft and radiant through all the festivities all Homecoming long.
Saie Glossybounce Hydrating Lip Oil
Keep your lips looking luscious and nourished with the Saie Glossybounce Hydrating Lip Oil. Perfect for adding an extra pop to your pout before hitting the yard or freshening up between events, this lip oil is a beauty essential for staying camera-ready all weekend.
Join us in celebrating HBCU excellence! Check out our Best In Class hub for inspiring stories, empowering resources, and everything you need to embrace the HBCU experience.
Featured image by Visual Vic/Getty Images
Ananda Lewis Clarifies Why She Didn't Get A Mastectomy & Says She's Doing 'Better' After Stage IV Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Former MTV VJ Ananda Lewis received a lot of backlash from online critics after sharing she decided to forgo a double mastectomy. But there's more to the story.
Ananda was diagnosed with stage III breast cancer in 2019, and during a recent round table discussion with CNN's Stephanie Elam and Sara Sidner, she revealed that she decided not to get a double mastectomy and, now, she has stage IV cancer.
Following that interview, she clarified why she did not get the surgery. “The circumstances were not conducive to surgery because my tumor wasn’t aggressively growing at the time, and then COVID hit,” Ananda told The Epoch Times.
She opted for a cryoablation treatment instead, which uses extreme cold to destroy the cancer cells.
Another thing the 51-year-old wanted to clarify was whether she was dying. She said she is not. “Nothing happened. Today, I am fantastic. I may have felt like I was dying in February, but I’m not dying, and I’m definitely doing better than I was last October,” she said.
She is focused on taking care of herself and getting a "good 20 more years out of this body." She follows a keto diet and avoids alcohol, white flour and white sugar.
During the CNN roundtable discussion, the mother of one shared that she had an integrative approach to her treatment, which included traditional medicine and homeopathy methods such as red light therapy.
“My plan at first was to get out excessive toxins in my body. I felt like my body is intelligent, I know that to be true. Our bodies are brilliantly made,” she said.
“I decided to keep my tumor and try to work it out of my body a different way,” she continued. “Looking back on that, I go, ‘You know what? Maybe I should have.’
Ananda also admitted that she wasn't prioritizing early detection, such as getting mammograms. The former talk show host's mom also had breast cancer and chose to go the conventional route, which influenced her to go a non-traditional route.
As a content creator, Ananda uses her social media to inform others on the things she's learned about obtaining good health such as toxic items to through out of your pantry and the many benefits of water.
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Feature image by Paul Archuleta/Getty Images