In The Queue - Vol. 1
From breakout singles to anticipated albums — here’s what I'm tuned into
Welcome to In The Queue — a new space where I share the music that’s been living in my headphones and setting the tone for my days. Think of it as a running diary of sound, where songs, albums, and upcoming projects come together in one place.
This isn’t your standard weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly drop. Instead, it’s organic — updates arrive when the music hits, when something resonates enough to stop me in my tracks, or when I can’t resist putting you on to what I’ve discovered. Expect a blend of new releases, deep cuts, rising voices, fiyah picks, and projects I’m eagerly waiting for.
At its heart, this series is about connection: the tracks shaping my mood, the albums worth sitting with, and the artists pushing music forward. When inspiration strikes, you’ll find it here.
Songs in Rotation:
Taylor Gray’s “Let Me In” is a raw, vulnerable cut that feels like an open journal entry, while Bryant Barnes’ “Priceless” is an anthem of self-worth. Mahalia continues her mastery of relatable R&B with “Testing,” and Breez Kennedy’s “Addiction” shines with moody intensity. For fans of soulful confessionals, Elmiene’s “Useless (Without You)” is a gut-punch. On the flip side, Ayra Starr’s “Hot Body” is pure dancefloor fire, Jacotene’s “Why’d You Do That?” offers razor-sharp alt-pop bite, Tyla’s “Mr. Media” shows her versatility, Mannywellz elevates with “Holy Father,” and SAFE’s “Red Rover” pulls us into his smooth sonic universe.
Fiyah Picks:
Currently I’m resonating with David Archuleta’s dreamy “Lucky” and Kehlani’s introspective “Folded.” Saweetie cranks up the confidence with “superstar,” while JID delivers lyrical acrobatics on “Sk8.” Add in Cat Burns’ “All This Love,” NanaBCool’s infectious “She Bad,” and Tiara Thomas’ romantic “Kiss Me”—and you’ve got an eclectic mix of artistry.
Albums in Rotation:
KAYTRANADA’s AIN’T NO DAMN WAY! is a masterclass in rhythm and groove. Maroon 5’s Love Is Like (Deluxe) adds unexpected depth to their catalog, while K Camp’s Kiss 6 is pure melodic rap goodness. Zyah Belle’s Are You Still Listening? and Craig David’s Commitment both offer sonic journeys steeped in soul and storytelling.
On the Horizon:
The releases we’re counting down to include Mariah the Scientist’s Hearts Sold Separately, Jon Batiste’s BIG MONEY, and Ciara’s CiCi (Deluxe) and Khamari’s To Dry A Tear. If the singles are any indication, these projects will define the next series of playlist updates.
Music is always shifting, and this column is where I’ll keep you in the loop on what’s fueling my days and nights.
That’s what’s been living in my headphones lately. But I know I’m not the only one discovering gems. Send me the songs and artists you’ve been loving — I’m always down to press play on something new.