December’s Music Gems: First Listens of the Songs You Need to Hear
What’s New in Music? First Listens of the Best Songs Released in December
Do you love discovering new music that makes you feel alive? Do you want to explore the hidden treasures and the latest trends of the music scene? If so, you are in the right place. Welcome to “First Listen”, a monthly column by Jzon Azari, where he handpicks the best songs from emerging and established artists and shares them with you, exclusively on Substack.
Every month, Jzon Azari takes you on a musical adventure, powered by YouTube Music. He digs deep into the diverse and vibrant world of music, from the underground hip-hop beats that will make you nod your head, to the indie folk melodies that will soothe your soul. He covers a wide range of genres and styles, so you can always find something that suits your mood and taste.
But “First Listen” is more than just a playlist. It’s a community of music lovers who appreciate the art and craft of these talented musicians. It’s a platform where you can interact with Jzon Azari and other subscribers, share your feedback, request your favorite songs, and discover new ones. It’s a subscription that will enrich your musical experience and expand your horizons.
So what are you waiting for? Join “First Listen” today and get ready to enjoy the best music you’ve never heard before. Trust us, you won’t regret it.
‘Do U Want Love’ - Kirko Bangz
After a long hiatus from the music scene, the Houston rapper Kirko Bangz is back with a new single that explores the complexities of love and relationships. The song, titled “Do U Want Love”, is a smooth and catchy tune that showcases Bangz’s melodic vocals and honest lyrics.
The song is a departure from Bangz’s previous hits, such as “Drank In My Cup” and “What Yo Name Iz?”, which focused more on the club and party vibes. Instead, “Do U Want Love” is a more introspective and vulnerable track that reflects Bangz’s personal growth and maturity.
The song’s hook poses a simple but profound question: “Do you want love?” Bangz admits that he is not sure how to answer it himself, as he struggles with his feelings for a girl who is with someone else. He confesses that he still checks her social media and wishes he could text her, but he also respects her happiness and does not want to interfere. He wonders if he should fight for her or let her go, and if love is worth the pain and sacrifice.
‘Love Me Enough’ - Nicki Minaj
Nicki Minaj is back with a new song that showcases her vulnerability and strength as a woman in the music industry. ‘Love Me Enough’ features the soulful vocals of Keyshia Cole and Monica, who join Minaj in a chorus of self-love and resilience. The song is a part of the deluxe edition of Minaj’s second album, ‘Pink Friday 2’, which celebrates the 13th anniversary of her debut album, ‘Pink Friday’.
In ‘Love Me Enough’, Minaj opens up about the challenges she has faced with men who have tried to dim her shine or take advantage of her fame. She raps, “Insecurе, real jealous, bitter littlе man / Cursin’, beat a woman, but he never hit a man / Man, yeah, you such a man, damn / Like Tina in a limo, well, bitch had to go ham, scram.” She also reflects on her personal life, hinting at past relationships. She raps, “I gave you my heart, you tore it apart / Now I gotta start all over again”.
But Minaj is not one to wallow in pity or let anyone bring her down. She asserts her confidence and independence, reminding herself and her listeners that she is a queen who deserves respect and loyalty. She raps, “First things first, all my girls, know your worth / Self-love is the greatest love on Earth / Cry your eyes out, get it out, it's the worst / But love don't hurt, no.” She also encourages other women and young ladies to follow her example and channel their inner queen to overcome the obstacles and barriers that society places on them. She sings, “I just do it for the girls who ain't never had it easy / The woman who conceived me, the girl in the mirror.”
Cole and Monica add their voices to the song, harmonizing with Minaj and echoing her message of female empowerment. Cole, who has collaborated with Minaj before on songs like ‘I Ain’t Thru’ and ‘No Love’, brings her signature R&B flair and raw emotion to the track. Monica, who is known for her hits like ‘The Boy Is Mine’ and ‘Angel of Mine’, lends her smooth and soulful voice to the song, creating a contrast with Minaj’s rap verses. Together, the three singers create a lullaby-like melody that soothes the ears and uplifts the spirit.
‘Love Me Enough’ is a song that resonates with many women and young ladies who have faced similar struggles with men, whether in their personal or professional lives. It is a song that celebrates the strength and beauty of women, and inspires them to love themselves and each other. It is a song that proves that Nicki Minaj is not only a rap legend, but also a role model and a leader for the next generation of female artists. It is a song that deserves to be heard and appreciated by everyone.
‘Run It Back’ - Ryan Leslie
Ryan Leslie is back with a new song that will tug at your heartstrings. The multi-talented artist and entrepreneur has released “Run It Back”, a soulful ballad about wanting to fix a broken relationship. Leslie, who has been busy with his SuperPhone app, a text marketing service that connects celebrities with their fans, has not forgotten his musical roots. He has been working on his new album, which he teased on his social media accounts as mynewalbum.com and gave a sneak peek of his new single at a live concert in Germany.
“Run It Back” is a song that showcases Leslie’s growth as a singer, songwriter, and producer. He expresses his vulnerability and honesty as he admits his faults and asks for forgiveness from his former lover. He sings, “Baby, I never meant to do you like that / Maybe we should run it back / We did some things I know we probably regret / So maybe we should run it back”. Leslie hopes to rekindle the spark that they once had and make things right the second time around.
‘2 Sides’ - Omarion
We all have two sides to our personalities, especially when it comes to love and lust. Sometimes we want to slow things down and savor the moment, but other times we crave the thrill of speed and intensity. Omarion knows how to satisfy both of these desires with his latest single ‘2 Sides’, a smooth and sensual R&B track that showcases his versatility and vocal prowess.
The song, which is part of his ‘Full Circle: Sonic Book Two’ album, features a catchy and melodic chorus that contrasts the different aspects of his lover: “I know you wanna slow it down, but you like it real fast / Two sides of the story, two sides, two sides of the story / Say you are a good girl, but you got it real bad / Two sides of the story, two sides, two sides of the story”. Omarion plays with this dynamic throughout the song, as he questions her intentions, admires her attitude, and praises her loyalty. He also acknowledges that he is not the only one who has two sides, as he admits that he can be chaotic and euphoric, jaded and elevated, caterer and dictator.
The song is produced by Gregory Curtis, who provides a smooth and groovy beat that complements Omarion’s vocals and lyrics. The former B2K member proves that he still has the skills and charisma to deliver a hit song that appeals to a wide audience. ‘2 Sides’ is a song that you can listen to with your partner, whether you want to cuddle or get wild, or even by yourself, if you want to embrace your own duality.
‘Let’s Fall In Love’ - Raheem DeVaughn
If you are looking for a song that captures the essence of true R&B, look no further than ‘Let’s Fall In Love’ by Raheem DeVaughn and Kenny Allen. The duo pays homage to the legends of the genre with a smooth and sweet melody that will make you feel the love in every word. Whether you are celebrating the holidays, a special occasion, or just a cozy night in, this song is the perfect soundtrack for setting the mood.
‘Let’s Fall In Love’ is part of DeVaughn’s latest project “Fall in Love”, which showcases his versatility and talent as a singer and songwriter. The song is a stunning example of how he can blend contemporary and classic sounds to create something timeless and beautiful. With Allen’s soulful production and DeVaughn’s passionate vocals, the song transports you to a blissful state of romance and intimacy.
The song is nearly six minutes long, but you will never want it to end. It is a song that you will want to play on repeat, as it fills you with warmth and joy. You will feel the chills down your spine as you listen to the heartfelt lyrics and the harmonious melody. ‘Let’s Fall In Love’ is a song that reminds you of the power and beauty of R&B, and how it can touch your soul like no other.
If you are a fan of R&B, you will not want to miss this song. It is a rare gem that will make you fall in love with the genre all over again. Raheem DeVaughn and Kenny Allen have created a masterpiece that will stand the test of time and become a classic in its own right. ‘Let’s Fall In Love’ is a song that you need to hear and feel for yourself.
A symphony of other sounds that enchanted our senses at the first encounter were…
‘No Love Lost’ - Keyshia Cole
‘Never Lose Me’ - Flo Milli
‘Young & Reckless’ - Rhyan Douglas
‘Control Freak (Live)’ - Maeta
‘Superman’ - Charlie Wilson
‘Risk It All’ - Usher / H.E.R.
‘My House’ - Beyonce
‘2 Kinds’ - Zach Karl
First Watch presented by YouTube Music
‘Feel Good’ - Luck
Enjoy the entire playlist on YouTube Music.