The music landscape buzzed with anticipation as Friday, August 29, 2025, marked a significant day for new releases across various genres. Headlined by major album drops from hip-hop stalwart Joey Bada$$ and pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter, the day also featured fresh singles from R&B favorite Ella Mai, alongside substantial projects from Westside Gunn and legendary MC Rakim. Adding to the week’s notable stories, Billboard unveiled its highly anticipated list of the Top 10 Hip-Hop Songs of the 21st Century.
Joey Bada$$ Delivers “Lonely At The Top”
Hip-hop fans celebrated the arrival of Joey Bada$$’s fourth studio album, “Lonely At The Top,” released via Columbia Records/Pro Era/Cinematic Music Group. Originally slated for an earlier August release, the album faced label-induced delays but finally landed on August 29. The project, which marks his first full-length release in three years since “2000,” showcases Joey’s growth as an artist, blending mature themes with his signature sharp lyricism and Brooklyn swagger. “Lonely At The Top” features collaborations with a notable roster of artists including Westside Gunn, A$AP Ferg, Ty Dolla $ign, Rome Streetz, and Rapsody, among others. Producers like Statik Selektah, Chuck Strangers, and Boi-1da also contributed to the record, promising a diverse sonic palette.
Sabrina Carpenter’s “Man’s Best Friend” Arrives
Pop superstar Sabrina Carpenter continued her meteoric rise with the release of her seventh studio album, “Man’s Best Friend.” Dropping on August 29, the 12-track project was co-produced by Carpenter herself, alongside frequent collaborators Jack Antonoff and John Ryan. The album, described as a blend of pop with elements of disco-pop, funk, R&B, and synth-rock, follows up her successful 2024 album “Short n’ Sweet.” The lead single, “Manchild,” previously garnered attention for its catchy melody and bold lyrical themes, while the second single, “Tears,” was released concurrently with the album. Carpenter’s work on “Man’s Best Friend” has been noted for its evolution in sound and thematic depth.
Ella Mai’s “Tell Her” Adds Soul to the Week
R&B sensation Ella Mai graced fans with her new single, “Tell Her,” released on August 29. This marks her first new music since her 2024 EP “3,” and it continues her successful partnership with producer Mustard, who also helmed her breakout hit “Boo’d Up.” “Tell Her” offers a smooth, bouncy beat paired with Mai’s soulful vocals, exploring themes of trust, loyalty, and emotional clarity in modern relationships. The track highlights her evolution as an artist, delivering a message of honesty and self-worth.
Westside Gunn Continues His Reign with “Heels Have Eyes 2”
Independent hip-hop powerhouse Westside Gunn delivered “Heels Have Eyes 2,” the highly anticipated sequel to his earlier project. Released on August 29, the album features 12 new songs and arrives in conjunction with the annual “Westside Gunn Day” celebration in Buffalo, N.Y. The project continues Gunn’s unique fusion of music, art, fashion, and wrestling, drawing inspiration from his “4th Rope” persona. The release was celebrated with live performances in Buffalo, featuring artists like Joey Bada$$ and Bun B, underscoring Gunn’s significant impact on his community and the broader hip-hop scene.
Rakim Joins Forces with Big Ghost LTD for “The Re-Up”
Legendary MC Rakim, celebrated as one of hip-hop’s most influential lyricists, dropped his collaborative project “The Re-Up” with producer Big Ghost LTD on August 29. The project, which includes the lead single “Not To Be Defined” featuring Lazarus, showcases Rakim’s enduring lyrical prowess. “The Re-Up” also features a solo track from Rakim, “I’m Good,” produced by Big Ghost. This release marks Rakim’s first new album material in 15 years, following his acclaimed work as part of Eric B. & Rakim and his solo ventures.
Billboard’s Top 10 Hip-Hop Songs of the 21st Century
Adding another dimension to the week’s music stories, Billboard released its definitive list of the Top 10 Hip-Hop Songs of the 21st Century. Based on chart performance, the ranking highlights enduring tracks that have shaped the genre over the past two decades. Lil Nas X’s “Industry Baby” claimed the top spot, followed by Macklemore’s “Thrift Shop” at number two, and Post Malone and 21 Savage’s “Rockstar” at number three. The list also features prominent tracks from Travis Scott, Drake, Jack Harlow, 50 Cent, Fetty Wap, and Lil Nas X again with “Old Town Road,” showcasing the genre’s diverse evolution and lasting impact.
Other Notable Releases
The week also saw the release of singles from artists such as DJ Khaled, who dropped “Brother” featuring Post Malone and NBA YoungBoy, and “You Remind Me” with a star-studded dancehall lineup. Independent releases also contributed to the vibrant music scene, with Alexandros Sarafis’ single “Side Eye” and Nicole Áries’ debut single “ICONIC” making their mark. The wealth of new music available on this “New Music Friday” offered fans a comprehensive collection of sounds, cementing August 29, 2025, as a noteworthy date in contemporary music history.
