Soundcheck: Killer Collabos
posted in: Features • Urban
It’s time to review another round of hot collaborations from some of hip hop’s most famous faces. This list features some unlikelypairings and some unstoppable up-and-comers as well as some old favorites with some new tricks.
The Cataracs featuring Waka Flocka Flame: All You
This up-tempo single is a guilty pleasure with a contagious new age sound and a techno-enhanced baseline that is hard not to dance to. The Cataracs don’t disappoint with their complex production, and Waka’s signature hollering is equal parts offensive and harmless; with an undeniably appealing result.
Melanie Fiona featuring Snoop Dogg: Gone (La Dada Di)
A single from her debut album, The MF Life, (out today) features Fiona’s intense vocal delivery and powerful lyrics of loss and longing for her man. Her smooth, soulful style is sure to stick around for a while; and her knack for story telling gives me the feeling this album is a winner. Snoop’s verse lends a familiar touch to the unusual offering; rounding out this delightful surprise.
David Banner featuring Big K.R.I.T.: Believe It
A single from Banner’s upcoming EP Sex, Drugs & Video Games, the album will be free to download with an option to donate to charity. The hook sounds like its sung by a gospel choir; although the subject matter is a bit too risky for a Sunday morning. Still, the song is hot” if not a bit aggressive” but what else would we expect from this mash-up of Southern gentlemen?
Wiz Khalifa featuring Amber Rose & Rick Ross: Never Been Part II
This single from Khalifa’s latest mixtape, Taylor Alderdice features his real-life leading lady, fiancée Amber Rose, and Maybach Music’s Rick Ross takes a turn as well. While Wiz’s verse is crystal clear and characteristically weed-themed, Amber’s contribution is clearly a favor, and Ross is there to save the track from being a throw away. Luckily, he does a great job and turns this ditty to a keeper in thirty-two bars. The sweet-sounding beat helps too.
Mac Miller featuring Diggy: Definition Of Cool
Likely to be featured on Miller’s upcoming Macadelic mixtape; this one is a throwback from two newbies. Diggy holds his own against Mac’s indie-inspired flow and showcases his occasional British-accented delivery. It may be silly, but it’s a fun track that’s not likely to make the radio, but worth a download.
Nicki Minaj featuring Lil Wayne: Roman Reloaded
This single from her upcoming sophomore album, Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded features Nicki in full effect and holding no punches. It’s evident that Roman will be taking no prisoners when the project hits shelves next month. In this catchy track, Young Money leader, Lil Wayne joins his golden girl for a hard-hitting verse that’s as X-rated as they come and coins a new phrase Nicki Minajatois.
Melanie Fiona featuring Nas: Running
This track features a fifties-inspired sound, showcases Fiona’s versatile voice and offers a much softer sound than her usual tear jerkers. Still, she belts out the big notes in a way that translates her pain and instantly pulls you in. Nas delivers an awesome verse that tells the story of a love gone wrong and reminds us why he’s still the illest in the game.