Summary of Western Music Releases [May 2025]

Iz It A Crime?Snoop Dogg, October London

Snoop Dogg, October London – Iz It A Crime? (Visualizer)

A powerful, soulful track from gangsta rap heavyweight Snoop Dogg featuring rising R&B singer October London.

Built on the foundation of a classic by British songstress Sade, the song weaves October London’s velvety vocals into a mellow, minimalist soundscape that lingers long after it ends.

It’s a masterful fusion of message-driven rap—laced with sharp critiques of the music industry—and rich, soulful melody.

Serving as the title track that opens the album “Iz It A Crime?” released in May 2025, it leads an ambitious project that also features Pharrell Williams and Wiz Khalifa.

A must-listen not only for West Coast hip-hop fans but for lovers of soul music as well.

Don’t Hold The FireSoFaygo

SoFaygo – Don’t Hold The Fire [Official Video]

SoFaygo is delivering a new generation of sound that breaks free from traditional rap conventions.

The young rapper from Grand Rapids, Michigan began releasing music in 2018, and drew major attention in 2021 when he signed with Travis Scott’s label, Cactus Jack Records.

Released in May 2024, this track makes a striking impression, layering dreamy, weightless soundscapes with melodious, Auto-Tune–inflected vocals used to great effect.

It further deepens the sonic world that has captivated fans with “Knock Knock” and the album Pink Heartz.

It’s a work that epitomizes today’s hip-hop scene—perfect for late-night drives or moments when you want to relax.

TasteSophie Ellis-Bextor

Sophie Ellis-Bextor – Taste (Official Lyric Video)

A captivating pop number from UK-born Sophie Ellis-Bextor, created in collaboration with hitmakers MNEK and Jon Shave.

With a sophisticated melody, it expresses the universal theme of being drawn to someone’s tastes and preferences and finding life shine brighter by sharing them.

Expertly blending elements of pop, dance, and disco, the track was released in May 2025 as the lead single from the album Perimenopop.

After stepping back into the spotlight in 2024 with the film Saltburn, she continues her musical experimentation on her eighth album, Perimenopop—an impressive evolution.

Highly recommended for those who enjoy refined adult pop and fans of disco sounds.

hold me downStormzy

hold me down

This is a moving R&B ballad by London-born Stormzy that effectively weaves in soulful tones and gospel elements.

Unlike his previous grime- and rap-based tracks, this work stands out for its gentle vocals that convey deep introspection and the subtleties of human relationships.

Released in May 2025 on his own label, it’s accompanied by a music video filmed against a Malibu sunset, beautifully reflecting the song’s warm atmosphere.

It’s the perfect track for a calm evening when you want to immerse yourself in music or soothe your heart.

sorry rach!Stormzy

sorry rach!

Hailing from London, Stormzy is a powerhouse grime artist who now stands at the forefront of the UK music scene.

In his first new release since his May 2023 tie-up with McDonald’s, he pairs dynamic horn-driven arrangements and weighty beats with candid lyrics that speak straight to the heart about his love for his mother and his views on romance.

Produced by Take A Daytrip—the hitmakers behind tracks like “Industry Baby”—the song fuses grime and UK hip-hop in a perfectly balanced blend, becoming a jewel that embodies both a return to his roots and a step forward in his musical evolution.

With its potent message and irresistible groove, this is a must-listen not only for UK hip-hop fans, but for anyone who appreciates great music.

Robbery 9Tee Grizzley

Tee Grizzley – Robbery 9 [Official Video]

This is a new entry in the authentic storytelling series by Tee Grizzley, a Detroit-born rapper with real street experience.

Building on the Detroit drill sound of the previous release produced by Helluva, the track excels with a tense, expertly crafted production that deftly incorporates elements of Chicago and UK drill.

Released in May 2025 as a cut from the album “Forever My Moment,” it showcases a masterful fusion of his signature heavy 808 bass and rapid-fire delivery.

Combined with cinematic direction by video director Jerry PHD, it strikingly balances raw realism that reflects street life with a highly polished sense of narrative fiction.

Its gripping progression and depth of psychological portrayal make it a must-listen for hip-hop fans.

Baby Mad At MeThat Mexican OT & Lil Wayne

That Mexican OT & Lil Wayne – Baby Mad At Me (Official Audio)

That Mexican OT, a rapper from Bay City, Texas, is drawing attention with a unique style that fuses Mexican and Texan culture.

A powerful collaboration with Louisiana and New Orleans legend Lil Wayne is set to arrive in May 2025.

Over a warm, guitar-centered track, the song features striking verses that depict the subtleties of romantic relationships—and, remarkably, a guitar solo by Lil Wayne.

Scheduled to appear on the album Recess, slated for release this summer, the track masterfully blends South Texas rap stylings with a melodic flow.

After making his mark with his July 2023 debut album Lonestar Luchador, expectations are high for this to become his next signature work.

It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants to experience the chemistry between hip-hop’s new and old generations.