First Listen Fridays (11/9/26) – Jhené Aiko, Natanya, and More New Music

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The sunshine is still out, and we have plenty of great new music picks to match the gorgeous weather, which is lasting into the Autumn. We have fantastic new music from Jhené Aiko, JEDSOUL, Leah Cleaver, Natanya, and more, which showcases some of the best in the U.K. and elsewhere. Without further ado, let us get into the music.

Jhené Aiko FT. Kendrick Lamar – So Good

Her first new album in over 5 years, R’n’B fans can rejoice at the return of Jhené Aiko. Not only that, but alongside features from Larry June and Ab-Soul, this artist has duetted with Kendrick Lamar for the first time since 2013. Those sparkling and somewhat whimsical keys entice you into the track before our guest gives a melodic and catchy chorus. Kenny sounds great here, and he and Aiko harmonise so nicely you forget for a moment that he’s known as the man who recently ruined Drake’s life. These two maintain that same chemistry they had on tracks like ‘Stay Ready‘ and ‘Growing Apart‘. Of course, our lead sounds great before we transition into the more bassy second half, where Lamar adds that grit to his performance. An absolutely smooth duet from these two; I can’t wait to delve into the rest of the LP.

JEDSOUL – WONDERMAN

The first of our Purple List picks today comes from one of U.K. R’n’B’s rising stars. That keyboard melody and vibrant guitar show that our lead, alongside RZ, Ezra Skys, and Kent Azares, knows how to grab your interest. Then come those sleek vocals as he comes in to seduce this person and be the man they want. When the chorus comes in, we get high notes, ad-libs, and everything in between to make it sound very nice. There is some flexing of his singing repertoire in the second half, showcasing talent and intention, reminding the listener why they are making a name for themselves. Ending things with a smooth bridge and one last blast of the chorus, this number is some top-class love music.

Buy the track here.

Mez FT. UMI – Platinum Fubu

With his debut album on the way, Mez gives us the latest taste of what is to come. This one sees the North Carolinian bring forward UMI, as we highlight another lovely pairing. That bass really creates a moody atmosphere, with the faint background singing adding to that feeling. Our lead then comes in with a commanding presence that orchestrates his thoughts in a direct and musically pleasing way. Then our guest comes in with some gorgeous vocals, both on the chorus and second verse, fitting the theme of discussing what makes a relationship. Two very talented artists who can showcase their thoughts in a mature way, while still giving you a song you want to come back to.

mynameisntjmack – POMONA

Since I first heard this Virginian rapper, I have always been eager to see what comes next, and today, that is ‘POMONA‘. The soulful-jazzy production always complements his cadence nicely, allowing the words to take centre stage. Bringing a peppy flow, the rapper references the threats to the lives of Black men and the isolation one feels. This is an artist who always has something poignant to say, whilst keeping things melodic. And, if you know me, a saxophone always boosts the score of any song. If you haven’t jumped on the mynameisntjmack train just yet, then head to the station.

Natanya – APPETITE

Just a year after her last album, Natanya has already dropped her next release, with this being my favourite of the new songs. The wavey electronic production is very Tyler, The Creator-esque, considering he is a fan. However, both she and Oscar Scheller have done a great job in capturing that whimsy, while still allowing their sugary vocals to shine. Those drums really pack a punch, alongside the background harmonies as the singer talks about having an ‘APPETITE‘ for this person. This truly documents that feeling created when you have someone you desire, which the intensity of the instrumental and our lead’s singing also showcase. Now, go check out the other tracks.

Leah Cleaver – SUNSHINE DAZE

Summer may be over, but Leah Cleaver is keeping the good vibes going a little longer. Those sweet harmonies and that bright guitar at the start set a relaxed mood before our lead serenades you. This is all about giving love to someone who needs it, as it feels very romantic in nature. Alongside Nick Mills, this artist has given a lovely close to summer and maybe a few couples’ fave new track.

Priya Ragu – Finally

‘Finally‘ (sorry I had to do it), Priya Ragu is back. This one feels like a late summer banger, with those vibrant drums and guitars, while the singer really brings the passion on the vocal front. Truly, Ragu has found ‘the one’, and I feel like this is the exact kind of intensity you’d feel in that situation. Packed full of oomph, this is a class return from an artist who you should really give your flowers to. And the closing with the electric guitar of Hrday Sunil and the vocals going off, absolutely sensational.

Bonobo FT. Nilüfer Yanya – Youth’s Fountain

To conclude today’s proceedings, we have a new album from Bonobo and a collaboration I was eager to hear. Those plucked guitar stings and the energetic percussion set the basis before Nilüfer Yanya’s talky singing comes in. Her mournful delivery is slightly in contrast to the nature-esque sounds; however, for me it fits like a glove. It is a very personal and emotional performance from the guest, as the track transcends, adding saxophone, trumpet, and other instruments. This one is definitely made for the live show and sounds sublime.

Buy the track here.

Follow IndustryMe on Instagram, Threads, X, or YouTube. Press play on our First Listen Fridays playlist below or via YouTube Music to enjoy all our top picks. You can also check out previous editions here.

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