Busta Rhymes’s career in Hip Hop has spanned over 25 years. He has maintained a style all his own and never conformed his unique delivery. Now, he has returned to the studio to work on his long awaited new album (the follow up to 2012’s Year of the Dragon). Busta Rhymes has teamed up with another one of Hip Hop’s royalty, Missy Elliott. The pair have collaborated numerous times, including this year’s Super Bowl Doritos commercial. So, I’m still waiting on them to do a joint album. Maybe one day that will happen.

“Get It” is a high energy, rapid flow kind of song. Busta Rhymes and Missy Elliot trade slick verses back and forth, while Kelly Rowland sings the chorus. Some people may recognize that the hook and even some elements of the production sound eerily familiar. Kelly recorded a song called “Smooches” a few years ago that never saw the light of day. Well, until now. The song seems to have been reworked for Busta Rhymes’s liking. Nevertheless, I do enjoy this version better and it has me hyped for his new album.

Don’t call it a comeback. Busta Rhymes has been here for years. His contributions to music are frankly underrated.  He was one of the first rap artists to take the art of a music video to something the world had never seen. His creativity, energy and knack for creating music ahead of his time is unparalleled. Hear the song in its entirety below. Plus, check out Kelly Rowland’s “Smooches”, to see if you hear the similarities. However, there has been no word yet on when Busta Rhymes will release his upcoming album. Either way, I’ll be waiting for it. Keep the 2 Chainz and Culture, by way of Migos. This is real Hip Hop.

Justin Timberlake has had an interesting couple of weeks, to say the least. He celebrated his 37th birthday, released his fourth studio album, Man Of The Woods, and performed at the Super Bowl. He should be on top of the world right now. However, there have been very mixed reviews on his latest project (let alone his halftime show performance). I let Man Of The Woods sink in a few days before giving my honest opinion. The truth is the album is solid. Is it his best ever? No. Should it be? Absolutely not. 

The man who brought us hits like “Sexy Back”, “Cry Me A River” and “Suit and Tie”, was in a peculiar position during the making of his album. He continued to outdo himself with each album he released. The danger there is the goal eventually becomes making the next big hit; not the most artistically sound project. In comes the lead single, “Filthy”. Although it’s not as in your face as his previous lead singles, it’s a more mature sound. Remember, he’s 37 now. This isn’t old by any means, but he’s been in the music business for nearly 20 years. 

If The 20/20 Experience was Justin Timberlake’s induction into manhood, then Man Of The Woods is him passing the torch to the younger generation. On songs like the upbeat jungle boogie of “Midnight Summer’s Jam” and the swagger laden “Sauce”, he proves he still remembers the sound that brought him solo appeal. This album is more about reflection, love and looking ahead into the future. Ironically, his vocals are reminiscent of a young George Michael on songs like the catchy, melodic title track, “Man Of The Woods”. 

Justin Timberlake has teased elements of country music before and he dives right in on “Wave”. The song carefully blends country, soul and pop sounds in a tasteful offering. However, “Flannel” is one of the showstoppers of the songs that charter his new territory. In fact, I see this being one of the biggest songs from the album. His vocals are smooth and calculated, unlike the bombastic, hip hop driven hooks that inundate much of his catalog. Alicia Keys and Chris Stapleton stop by for some memorable guest appearances too. However, Justin Timberlake shines brightest when he’s the sole focal point (check out “Supplies” and “Breeze Off The Pond”). 

At this point, Justin Timberlake has nothing to prove or explain. Except for the oft put Prince tribute during his half time performance. Oh and maybe a formal apology or admittance of his part in the infamous half time performance he shared with Janet Jackson 14 years ago. Nonetheless, Man Of The Woods may not be filled with his usual type of radio hits, but it’s proof that he at least tried to offer something new this time around. 

Justin Timberlake disappeared from the music scene for just about the right amount of time since his massive success with the 20/20 Experience album. He still appeared at award shows and released the hit single, “Can’t Fight The Feeling” from the Trolls movie soundtrack. Now, he’s back with a vengeance. His upcoming album, Man Of The Woods, will be released on February 2nd. Of course, this was carefully planned right before his highly anticipated Super Bowl Half Time performance. The last time he performed…..well, I think we all remember what happened there. Let’s just say she’s Ms. Jackson if you’re nasty. 

His new single “Filthy” is honestly less lyrically dense than I was expecting. This doesn’t mean the song is bad though. In fact, it’s far from it. The production has a very futuristic sound that’s addictive yet borderline annoying with its perpetual techno dings. “Put your filthy hands all over me” he urges. The former N’Sync front man goes on to brag about a party that won’t end until 6:00 am. I’m feeling a new aged George Michael vibe here. He played it smart with this one, because it has a very current and universal sound. 

The Tennessee native just may be dabbling into Country music more on this album. The clips from his album trailer have a more mature, Pop sound and less of a Hip Hop inspired feel. Either way, fans will surely be ready for his Half Time performance and the new music. Check out the futuristic music video for “Filthy” below. What are your thoughts on it? Would you say Bump It or Dump It?

Bruno Mars arguably had the biggest success of his career in 2017. He is up for six Grammy Awards this year, including the big three (Song, Record and Album of the Year). Honestly, I’m rooting for him to take home the award for Album of the Year for 24K Magic. So, it only makes sense that the remix for his new single, “Finesse”, features the hottest woman in Hip Hop, Cardi B. She had everyone singing about their money moves and bloody shoes last year. This just seems like a musical match made in heaven. 

The song has a throwback appeal that is reminiscent of the Bell Biv Devoe hit, “Poison”. However, I would be re-missed if I failed to mention how incredibly dope its accompanying music video is. The concept centers around a theme of In Living Color. For those that don’t remember or have never seen the show, it was a sketch comedy series, similar to SNL or Mad TV. The music video features Cardi B and Bruno Mars having the time of their lives. The two are dancing around in day glow, 90s themed outfits. There’s painting, dancing, partying and just a feel good time. At one point, Cardi B gets so into it, she even slaps her own ass. 

“Finesse” was always one of my favorite songs on 24K Magic.  The video perfectly captures the nostalgic appeal and definitely brings back some great memories. Jim Carry, Jennifer Lopez, David Alan Greer and so many more stars got their start on In Living Color. Also, this is not to mention the Wayans family that created. The video takes the song to a new level and pays homage to one of the defining moments of the 90s. Oh yes, let’s drip with finesse.

So, what are your thoughts on the “Finesse” music video? Check it out for yourself below. Plus, tune in to the 60th Annual Grammy Awards show on January 28th.