As summer marches on, the music heats up.
The WNBA season is also in full swing and the NBA draft showcased the next level of talent.
There are a few athletes who excel in both music and basketball.
Flau'jae is carrying the torch. With her new project, she proved she can more than hold her own alongside some heavy-hitting features. Meanwhile, Shaq teamed up with some fellow OGs for everyone to walk down hip-hop memory lane in the digital era.
There's plenty other drops from around the world too that offer motivation or relaxation. Because we all need both, right?
Here's the KTC music report for June 28:
Flau'jae — "Best of Both Worlds" EP
Flau'jae makes a statement with her debut EP, "Best of Both Worlds." The LSU star, who was the SEC Freshman of the Year in 2023, continues her lyrical prowess across the nine tracks. She enlisted NLE Choppa on "AMF," which stands for "Ain't My Fault," and the legend Lil Wayne on "Came Out a Beast." Throughout the project, she shouts out Angel Reese, Scottie Pippen, Joe Burrow and Deion Sanders with ease as she compares herself to greatness. The single "Pop It" has a woozy sound and"Perfect Timing" has a reflective tone as she ponders how her hard work will pay off in the big picture. The beats are infectious and Flau'jae's flow is effortless as she establishes herself as more than capable handling a ball and a mic.
Shaq ft. Nas and Jay Z — "No Love Lost" Single (Part of "You Can't Stop the Reign" Album)
For the first time, Shaquille O'Neal's 1996 album"You Can't Stop the Reign" is available for streaming. The digital release features the fabled "No Love Lost" with two rap legends, Nas and Jay Z. When the album was released, Esco and Hov's historic feud was a few years on the horizon with the King of New York throne up for the taking. Meanwhile, Shaq was establishing himself as a consistent All-Star on the brink of superstardom with a move from the Orlando Magic to the Los Angeles Lakers. The song serves as a sort of time capsule while transcending the history books.
Headie One — "The Last One" Album
Headie One released"The Last One," although we're pretty sure the North London MC's sophomore album isn't truly his last... He spoke to NME to explain that the title references a full circle moment more than a definitive retirement. He previewed the project in April with the emotive "Cry No More" single featuring Stormzy. The entire album lasts more than an hour with 20 tracks ranging from the reflective opener, "I Could Rap," the signature drill "Martin's Sofa"and the dance-infused "Make a W" with Skrillex, AJ Tracey and BEAM.
Ron Gilmore — "Break" Single
If you are a fan of Dreamville, you are familiar with Ron Gilmore's work. He's a more behind-the-scenes artist, but he's incredibly talented and an excellent curator as well. He released the vulnerable "Break" single featuring Mario Moore. It's an honest song that doesn't need any clever lyrical gymnastics. "Sometimes I need a break" and "Can I get a second to breathe?" The rhythmic soundscape creates a tropical getaway that kindly gives the listener their own space to breathe.
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