New Music Roundup: April Releases from Somalia, NLE Choppa, Marques Houston, Amaria, Chenayder, and More

As April unfolds, the music scene is buzzing with exciting releases. Here’s a rundown of some must-listen tracks.

Step into the sonic realm of “First Listen,” where every beat is a discovery and every harmony a revelation. Curated by the eclectic Jzon Azari, this monthly music digest on Substack is your passport to the auditory wonders of the world.

Guided by the rhythms of YouTube Music, Jzon Azari embarks on an auditory odyssey, unearthing gems from the pulsating heart of rap to the tranquil strums of acoustic serenity. His curation spans the spectrum, ensuring your musical cravings are not just met, but transcended.

“First Listen” isn’t merely a collection of tracks—it’s a symphony of souls converging. Engage with Jzon Azari and fellow audiophiles, exchange views, pitch your favorite tunes, and stumble upon your next obsession. It’s more than a service; it’s a sonic sojourn that will amplify your life’s soundtrack and broaden your cultural horizons.

Don’t just hear, but truly listen. Embark on “First Listen” and prepare for an auditory feast that promises to be the zenith of your musical voyage. Believe us, it’s an invitation to an echelon of melody you’ll cherish.

‘The Parable’ - Secily

In the realm of music, there exists a genre that transcends mere melodies and lyrics. It’s a genre that reaches deep into our hearts, stirring emotions we didn’t know we had. R&B music—the rhythm of love, the blues of life—is a force that binds us together, weaving stories of passion, heartache, and redemption. Enter Secily, a name that resonates with soul-seekers and music aficionados alike. Her latest song, “The Parable,” is a testament to the enduring power of R&B. From the very first note, it grips your soul, leaving an indelible mark.

Secily’s voice carries the weight of experience. As she croons about sweet today’s and the roads not taken, we feel the ache of longing. It’s a song that invites introspection—a mirror reflecting our own missed chances and unspoken desires. Love doesn’t always follow a predictable path. Sometimes it’s fleeting, a brief encounter that leaves an imprint. Secily reminds us to cherish these moments, to accept love in all its forms. Whether it’s a passionate affair or a quiet companionship, love is worth celebrating.

“The Parable” delves into what could’ve been. Secily’s soulful vocals unravel the threads of a past love, dissecting its joys and sorrows. We listen, captivated, as she lays bare the questions that haunt us all: Why did it go wrong? What if? But this song isn’t just about looking back. It’s about release and renewal. Secily’s voice soars as she lets go of the past, making room for a new love. It’s a poignant reminder that endings pave the way for beginnings—a cycle of hope and resilience.

In “The Parable,” Secily weaves a tapestry of emotions—a melody that lingers, lyrics that resonate. It’s a song that speaks to our shared humanity, reminding us of the good times we’ve known and the promise of what lies ahead. So, press play, close your eyes, and let R&B music carry you on this soul-stirring journey.

 

‘No One Has To Know’ - Bennett Louis

In the ever-evolving landscape of music, where social media timelines are awash with clout and exploitation, Denver’s enigmatic pop star Bennett Louis stands as a guardian of secrets—a maestro of discretion. His artistry thrives on the unspoken, the concealed, and the clandestine.

In an era where oversharing is the norm, Bennett Louis defies the trend. His melodic confessions remain veiled, whispered only to those who truly listen. With each note, he weaves a tapestry of enigma, inviting listeners into a world where discretion is paramount.

Bennett’s music pulses with a pop-infused rhythm, a heartbeat that resonates across genres. His lyrics, like hidden messages etched in code, beckon us to lean in closer. The baseline, a siren’s call, lures us into the depths of his soundscapes. Far from mundane, Bennett’s compositions are a paradox—fresh yet timeless. His songs are not fleeting moments; they are secrets shared between artist and audience. Whether you’re alone, lost in introspection, or on the dancefloor, Bennett’s melodies wrap around you like a shroud of mystery.

As Bennett Louis continues to craft his musical legacy, he reminds us that some truths are best left unsung. In a world clamoring for attention, he stands as a sentinel of silence—a testament to the enduring power of secrets in an artist’s journey.

 

‘Enough’ - 4VR

In the dimly lit corners of recording studios, a musical renaissance is brewing. House music, once the heartbeat of underground dance culture, is experiencing a revival in America. And one of those contributors of this sonic resurgence stands the enigmatic duo, 4VR.

Picture this: It’s the late '90s, and you step into a pulsating nightclub. The air vibrates with anticipation, and the bassline reverberates through your veins. The crowd sways, shedding the weight of the day, lost in the rhythm. That’s the magic of House music—the ability to transport you to a place where time dissolves, and the dancefloor becomes a sanctuary.

4VR, hailing from the vibrant streets of Philadelphia, embodies this spirit. Their deep House and Pop-infused “Enough” is a portal to euphoria. With each beat, they beckon listeners to lose themselves, to explore the other side of mundane existence. It’s a siren call—an invitation to dance until dawn.

Their latest creation, a seamless blend of soulful melodies and infectious grooves, is sure to become the anthem for those seeking liberation. As the night unfolds, hearts race, and Apple Watch rings close. 4VR’s music isn’t just a soundtrack; it’s a lifeline—a reminder that sometimes, the best escape lies in the rhythm.

So, as House music resurges, don’t forget 4VR—the architects of the nightlife. Even when they’ve reached their limit, and for us, it’s never enough. Step onto the dancefloor, let the bass thump, and let 4VR teleport you to a place where the night is eternal, and the beat reigns supreme.

 

‘Why I Love You’ - Josh Kye

In the heart of London’s music scene, singer-songwriter Josh Kye weaves an enchanting tapestry of emotion with his latest track, “Why I Love You.” The harmonious fusion of his soulful voice and the gentle acoustic baseline creates an ethereal experience that transcends mere notes.

In this true lover’s song, Kye pours forth an open letter to someone who holds a special place in his heart. With each lyric, he breaks the silence that once concealed his deepest feelings. It’s not just a traditional sound; it’s a melody that resonates with lovers across time—a raw, unfiltered expression of affection. As the rhythm carries us along, Kye’s vocals become the vessel for a powerful message. He promises not to waver, vowing to stay by their side through life’s twists and turns. In a world where love often remains unspoken, Kye’s music becomes the anthem for diehard romantics—the untouchable harmonies that echo the heartbeat of every lover.

So, let the chords strum, the lyrics linger, and the soulful voice of Josh Kye remind us why we love—the sweet ache of vulnerability, the promise of forever, and the magic of music that binds hearts together.

 

‘Just Like Candy’ - Nolo’s Addiction

Have you ever been in love? If so, prepare to find a cherished spot in your musical library as California artist Nolo’s Addiction weaves a captivating tale with their song “Just Like Candy.” Drawing inspiration from the past, Nolo’s Addiction skillfully combines the soulful echoes of 70s music with a contemporary twist, creating a melodic masterpiece that transcends generations.

Nolo’s Addiction takes us on a sonic voyage reminiscent of the classic hit “Computer Love.” The familiar warmth of vintage melodies merges seamlessly with modern production, resulting in a track that resonates across time. Whether you’re a seasoned music aficionado or a newcomer, “Just Like Candy” invites you to savor its sweet harmonies. The magic lies in how Nolo’s Addiction bridges the gap between past and present. Elements of 70s soul infuse the song, evoking memories of love stories and late-night dances. Yet, the contemporary twist ensures that “Just Like Candy” feels fresh and relevant. It’s a musical time capsule that unites listeners of all ages.

Nolo’s Addiction has harnessed the power of nostalgia to create a solid fan base. By tapping into the universal emotions of love and longing, they’ve crafted a song that resonates with both seasoned listeners and those discovering the magic of timeless melodies for the first time. “Just Like Candy” is more than a song; it’s an invitation to connect through music, regardless of age or background. So, whether you’re reminiscing about old flames or experiencing the thrill of new love, let Nolo’s Addiction’s “Just Like Candy” be your soundtrack. It’s a harmonious blend of the past and present—a sweet treat for the soul that transcends generations.

 

In that serendipitous moment, a symphony of captivating notes enveloped our very souls, igniting a fervor for the undiscovered melodies that awaited us.

• ‘Skin’ - Nomsa

• ‘What A Devastating Turn of Events’ - Rachel Chinouriri

• ‘Balance’ - Stella

• ‘ABENG’ - Zaila Jazz

• ‘Big Kid’ - Carla Kerridge

• ‘Crush’ - Jess Stewart

• ‘VORTEX’ - Jasimi

• ‘Admit It’ - Marques Houston

• ‘For One Last Time’ - Chenayder

• ‘Beggin’ - Amaria

• ‘Maiwee’ - Eden Lang

• ‘Slut Me Out 2’ - NLE Choppa

• ‘Celebrate’ - Ebony Winter

• ‘ASMR’ - Somalia

• ‘You’ - Nyotaa

First Watch presented by YouTube Music

‘Mine Now’ - Cambria Zyaire

 Enjoy the entire playlist on YouTube Music.