No matter how your week went, there's nothing that will put you in a weekend mood like a bomb ass playlist.
From Normani dropping her 90's inspired video for her latest single "Motivation" to Doja Cat making cellulite king in her creative new video for "Juicy," our playlist is abundant with bops that you need to get you through the remainder of this hot girl summer.
It's Friday, you got a job, and you probably have a lot of sh*t to do. But that shouldn't stop you from kicking your feet, rolling up something sticky, and getting into this smooth playlist specially curated by us, for you. Here are 10 new songs you should add to your summer playlist ASAP:
Normani - "Motivation"
Earlier today, Normani dropped her video for her latest single and the visuals will give you all the '90s nostalgia. If you weren't familiar with this former Fifth Harmony member before now, her poppin melanin and killer choreography skills prove that she was divinely touched by ancestors of R&B.
Doja Cat, Tyga - "Juicy"
"Juicy" is the natural booty confidence booster you didn't know you needed in your life. You’re welcome for putting you on your new favorite shower song that will encourage you to appreciate your curves and cellulite alike.
Jorja Smith (Feat. Burna Boy) - "Be Honest"
Jorja Smith and African rapper Burna Boy served up a whole mood on this tropical track that will have you feeling like you need to be on a beach with somebody's son as soon as possible.
Snoh Aalegra - "Find Someone Like You"
Although this Swedish soul singer initially emerged on the scene in 2014, Snoh is just now getting the recognition she rightfully deserves and recently released her latest album, -Ugh Those Feels Again. The Persian princess credits her smoky singing style to inspirations like Billie Holiday and gives us big Amy Winehouse-ish vibes on this mellow single.
Megan Thee Stallion (feat. Ty Dolla Sign & Nicki Minaj) - "Hot Girl Summer"
Nicki Minaj got some sh*t off her chest this week, and sis said it with her chest. Although this track released last week, the fearless savagery and unapologetic comradery amongst Black women that has taken in the music industry over the past few weeks has me bumping this track all damn weekend.
Kiana Lede - "Title"
This piano-playing singer just dropped something for us to vibe to all weekend long. While the artist is on tour until the end of the summer, that doesn't stop Kiana from dropping situationship inspired-heat that we can all relate to.
Ari Lennox - "BMO"
We Stan for a brown skinned beauty, so please, give Ari all of the things. The singer recently released the highly anticipated video for her single "BMO" and it was the perfect amount of bougie badness we needed this week.
Ariana Grande, Social House - "boyfriend"
This groovy track wasn't typical for Ariana, but nevertheless, it was hittin'. The song was released earlier this month, sparking rumors that she and Mikey from Social House were officially an item, but judging from the song's number one spot on the Top 100, sis is unbothered.
Big Sean - "Single Again"
Can we take a moment to discuss how absolutely adorable Ryan Destiny and Keith Powell are in this semi-short film? Big Sean rids us of our singledom scaries and reminds us that being alone doesn't make you lonely with an assist from ex-girlfriend Jhene Aiko and Ty Dolla $ign on the track.
Throwback Jam Of The Week: "U.N.I.T.Y." - Queen Latifah
Last but not least, I wanna take you back, way back to a time when only one or two female rappers could exist to the top. When Queen Latifah dropped "U.N.I.T.Y.", she changed the narrative of Black women in the rap game and opened the door for women like Nicki, Trina, Cardi, and Megan to thrive, and even in 2019, I'm here for all of it. Bump this track this weekend in honor of a long real one!
Featured image via Giphy
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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.
Featured image by Visual Vic/Getty Images
