Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews: Week of October 16, 2020

Artists to Watch

Jake’s Take’s Artists to Watch is back! Here are several artists and bands that could shake up the recording industry!

Mixtape [Psyche] by Joohoney 

Monsta X rapper Joohoney released his fourth mixtape: Psyche. When I listened to Mixtape [Psyche], I was in awe of Joohoney’s artistry. His intense raps are crisper and entertaining than some of today’s top hip-hop artists. Joohoney has a remarkable gift as a rapper, and I think he would play a significant role if the K-Pop musical genre revives Korean hip-hop. B+ 

Tracks to Download: “PSYCHE,” “DIA,” “SMOKY,” & “KING.”

Lil Kiiwi showcases Kiiara’s star power! (Album cover property of Atlantic Records)

Lil Kiiwi by Kiiara 

Wilmington, Illinois native Kiiara (Kiara Saulters), made a significant impact on the industry with her Billboard Hot 100-charting song “Gold” and her collaborations with David Guetta, Linkin’ Park, Steve Aoki, and Ty Dolla $ign. Five years after “Gold’s” release, Kiiara released her debut album: Lil Kiiwi. The album’s opening track, “So Sick,” a collaboration with rapper Blackbear, sets the record’s tone. Kiiara is a strong singer and songwriter, and Lil Kiiwi showcases her bright future in the industry. There are plenty of tracks that are worthy of being streamed on Spotify or the radio. Way to go, Kiiara! A- 

Tracks to Download: “So Sick,” “I Still Do,” “Don’t Get Confused,” “Gold,” & “Brightside.”

Johnnie Mikel’s “Revolution” is a superb protest song. (Music video property of Johnnie Mikel)

“Revolution” by Johnnie Mikel

Singer-songwriter Johnnie Mikel is making noise thanks to appearances on the Billboard charts. Recently, he released an impeccable protest and fight song: “Revolution.” From Green Day-esque guitar licks to superb lyrics, “Revolution” could be one of this decade’s top protest songs and could help cement Johnnie Mike’s place in the music industry. A-  

Melii’s “Way Too Soft” showcases why she could be one of this decade’s top breakout artists. (Music video property of Rule #1/Geffen Records)

“Way Too Soft” by Melii 

Harlem-based singer-rapper Melii dropped her a bombastic new single. “Way Too Soft” showcases great verses and one-two punches that are sprinkled throughout the track. If she plays her cards right, Melii could have the same trajectory that Cardi B and Meghan Thee Stallion are currently on right now. A-

“Numb” by Willow Raye featuring Bobby Raps 

Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter Willow Raye concludes this edition of Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews. When I listened to “Numb,” I was intrigued by the trance-pop and hip-hop mixture. Willow Raye’s seductive vocals have the potential to enchant Top 40 listeners and should be featured on several up-and-coming artists playlists on various music streaming services. 

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Copyright 2020 Jacob Elyachar