This New Music Friday, August 29, 2025, delivers a veritable smorgasbord of highly anticipated releases from some of the biggest names in hip-hop and R&B, solidifying the end of summer with a powerful collection of new music. Spearheading the wave are Joey Bada$$’s fourth studio album, ‘Lonely At The Top,’ Sabrina Carpenter’s seventh studio effort, ‘Man’s Best Friend,’ and Ella Mai’s latest single, ‘TELL HER.’ The day also sees significant contributions from DJ Khaled, Westside Gunn, Rakim and Big Ghost LTD, alongside a notable ranking of the top hip-hop songs of the 21st century by Billboard, making it a landmark day for music enthusiasts.
Joey Bada$$ Unveils ‘Lonely At The Top,’ Charting New Artistic Territory
Brooklyn’s own Joey Bada$$ has officially released his highly anticipated fourth studio album, ‘Lonely At The Top.’ Arriving via Columbia Records, Pro Era, and Cinematic Music Group, the project showcases Joey’s growth and artistic evolution. The album, which experienced a slight delay from an initial August 1st release due to label matters, finally landed on August 29th. ‘Lonely At The Top’ features a star-studded lineup, including collaborations with fellow hip-hop heavyweights such as Westside Gunn, A$AP Ferg, and Rome Streetz, alongside contributions from Bri Steves, Ty Dolla Sign, and CJ Fly. The project is bolstered by previously released singles like the introspective ‘Dark Aura’ and the compelling ‘Still.’ Fans can anticipate seeing these tracks and more performed live as Joey Bada$$ embarks on ‘The Dark Aura Tour’ this fall with support from Ab-Soul and Rapsody, further cementing his position in the current hip-hop landscape.
Sabrina Carpenter Embraces Bold New Sound with ‘Man’s Best Friend’
Pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter continues her dominant run with the release of her seventh studio album, ‘Man’s Best Friend.’ Available now through Island Records, the album marks a significant sonic exploration for the artist, blending pop sensibilities with elements of disco-pop, funk, R&B, and synth-rock. Produced in collaboration with notable figures like Jack Antonoff and John Ryan, the project follows Carpenter’s critically acclaimed 2024 album ‘Short n’ Sweet.’ The album’s lead single, ‘Manchild,’ has already garnered substantial attention for its edgy lyrical content and catchy production. ‘Man’s Best Friend’ was preceded by a playful and somewhat provocative album cover that sparked considerable online discussion, hinting at the album’s confident and self-assured thematic direction. In celebration of the release, Carpenter’s team has partnered with indie record stores globally for album release parties, fostering a deeper connection with her dedicated fanbase.
Ella Mai Returns with Soulful Confidence on ‘TELL HER’
Adding to the R&B offerings this New Music Friday, Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Ella Mai has graced listeners with her brand-new single, ‘TELL HER.’ Released via 10 Summers Records and produced by her frequent collaborator Mustard, the track signifies the beginning of a new musical chapter for the British artist, following her 2024 EP ‘3.’ ‘TELL HER’ is characterized by Ella Mai’s signature smooth vocals and heartfelt lyricism, paired with a catchy, bouncy beat that feels both nostalgic and contemporary. The song delves into themes of setting boundaries and maintaining compassion within relationships, reflecting her personal and artistic growth. This single reaffirms Mai’s status as one of R&B’s most authentic and resonant voices, with fans eagerly anticipating what comes next in this new era.
DJ Khaled, Westside Gunn, and Rakim Lead a Star-Studded Hip-Hop Lineup
The hip-hop genre is exceptionally well-represented today. DJ Khaled makes his grand return with two powerful new singles: ‘You Remind Me,’ a vibrant dancehall-infused track featuring an all-star ensemble including Vybz Kartel, Buju Banton, Mavado, Bounty Killer, RoryStoneLove, and Kaylan Arnold, and ‘Brother,’ a more emotionally resonant collaboration with Post Malone and YoungBoy Never Broke Again. These releases serve as precursors to Khaled’s upcoming 14th studio album, ‘Aalam of God.’
Further strengthening the hip-hop offerings, Westside Gunn unleashes ‘Heels Have Eyes 2,’ the highly anticipated sequel to his EP of the same name. The album, released through Griselda/Roc Nation, features collaborations with prominent artists such as Benny The Butcher, Stove God Cooks, and MIKE, continuing Gunn’s prolific output. Meanwhile, hip-hop legend Rakim joins forces with producer Big Ghost LTD for their collaborative album, ‘The Re-Up,’ a project that harks back to classic hip-hop storytelling and lyrical prowess, setting the stage with their impactful single ‘Not To Be Defined.’
Billboard Ranks the Top Hip-Hop Stories of the 21st Century
Adding significant context to the week’s releases, Billboard has unveiled its comprehensive ranking of the Top 10 Hip-Hop Songs of the 21st Century. The list, based entirely on chart performance, highlights the enduring impact and evolution of the genre. Topping the chart is Lil Nas X’s genre-bending hit ‘Industry Baby,’ followed closely by Macklemore’s ubiquitous ‘Thrift Shop.’ Post Malone and 21 Savage’s massive collaboration ‘Rockstar’ secures the third position, underscoring the crossover appeal and commercial success that hip-hop has achieved over the past two decades. This compilation serves as a testament to the genre’s diverse sounds, cultural relevance, and its consistent ability to produce enduring musical stories.
A Rich Tapestry of New Music
Beyond the headline acts, August 29, 2025, brings a wealth of other notable releases, including new albums from The Beths (‘Straight Line Was a Lie’), Blood Orange (‘Essex Honey’), Margo Price (‘Hard Headed Woman’), and Hayley Williams (‘Ego Death at a Bachelorette Party’), among many others. The sheer volume and quality of music released today underscore the vibrant and dynamic nature of the contemporary music scene.
This New Music Friday has undoubtedly provided fans with a rich and diverse soundtrack, showcasing the continued innovation and enduring power of hip-hop and R&B. The releases from Joey Bada$$, Sabrina Carpenter, Ella Mai, and the extensive list of other artists affirm the genre’s vital role in shaping cultural narratives and delivering compelling musical stories.
