Welcome to the 13th volume of Freddie’s Finds! Each week I will spotlight 3-4 of my favorite new tracks of the week, ranging from a variety of genres and artists. This week includes Rico Nasty x Bktherula, Paris Williams, Shy High x Souly Had, and “The” Pluto. 

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“Vaderz” by Rico Nasty ft. Bktherula

I have always loved everything that Rico Nasty has made, and her new single with Bktherula is no different. “Vaderz” epitomizes Rico’s punk-hip hop blend, while siren laced, drum heavy production adds to the perfectly hectic song. Rico and Bktherula seamlessly trade off lines throughout, oozing with confidence as they rap, “No Hannah Montaner, this ain't no double life, bitch, it's really the way that I live.” The music video expresses the feel of the song, as amidst the indescribable nature of the chaotic, quick switching shots, the duo are constantly smiling. This may be Rico’s first release of 2022, but it better not be the last.

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“CHUNKY” by Paris Williams

It’s never too early for a summer song, and Paris Williams just gave us that on his fun loving “CHUNKY.” His self-described bittersweet sound is an umbrella term for his ever expanding discography, saying he is, “living the future now creating whatever inspires me at the moment.” This certainly is true on “CHUNKY,” as the electronic sounding bass and airy instrumental adds a light-hearted feel to the track. While you may be able to guess what it is about if you’ve watched “Madagascar 2,” Paris truly tells a story as the song goes on. The first verse sets the scene of where he is in life, before the second verse sees him speak directly to his love interest. This is just the start of a lot more to come from Paris Williams this year, so you will definitely want to have him on your radar.

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“Dimples” by Shy High ft. Souly Had

We’ve been waiting for a long time for Shy High’s “Dimples” to drop, and it finally happened this week. The skate influenced song can’t help but remind me of Lupe’s “Kick, Push,” yet Shy High takes on a different style through his casual rapping style and production. His fun lyrics shine throughout, including potentially my favorite line of the year, “The drive home feeling like it’s RhymeZone / Everything I’m saying don’t connect like it should.” A perfectly contrasting verse from Souly Had adds just enough energy to give the song some pop, excitedly entering the track singing, “I’m a hopeless romantic / I can’t keep up with your antics.” The production style switches up for these 8 bars, adding volume with a piano riff. Shy High has put together a large collection of singles – hopefully it’s nearing the time for his debut project.

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“2 Blessed” by “The” Pluto ft. aarvee

Across all his releases, “The” Pluto has exemplified his ability to take on a variety of styles, yet his newest single is certainly my favorite yet. Electric guitar led production combined with raw vocals forms a deadly combo on “2 Blessed” featuring aarvee, making it impossible to take off repeat. Pluto’s flow shines on the first verse, barely able to contain his energy before the hook emphatically comes back in. He battles with a double edged sword of music, singing, “I’m too blessed to be stressed.” aarvee takes control on the second verse, seeing the song out as he creates wordplay out of the track’s title. Keep an eye out for “The” Pluto’s next project, coming soon.

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