Cougar MIcrobes Selects Hip Hip

Cougar Microbes Selects: Hip Hop February 2023

A selection of new and/or relevant Hip Hop-leaning tracks that have recently left an impression on us.

Meek Mill – “Don’t Follow The Heathens Freestyle (Freestyle)”

Meek Mill is back and he’s not fucking around with his latest release “Don’t Follow The Heathens Freestyle”. The Philadelphia rapper has dropped some serious heat in this hard-hitting freestyle, showcasing his raw talent and impeccable delivery. Meek takes listeners on a journey through his humble beginnings, reminding us all that hard work and dedication can lead to great things. The accompanying Carters Vision-shot clip gives fans an intimate studio session where Meek is seen cooking up some fresh bars. With his effortless flow and powerful lyrics, Meek proves once again why he is a force to be reckoned with in the rap game. Fans are eagerly anticipating his upcoming album releases this year, but for now, “Don’t Follow The Heathens Freestyle” is a wicked appetiser.


Swanny.95 – “Totem”

With a sound reminiscent of the 90s boom bap, Swanny.95 seamlessly blends classic hip-hop style with modern production twists. His clever punchlines and silky smooth raps are sure to leave you impressed with his inventiveness and natural lyrical prowess. This Indianapolis-based indie emcee has already amassed 2 million plus streams with his hip-hop duo Grey Lamb, touring the country as an opener for the likes of DRAM and Waka Flocka Flame, but on his solo work, he displays his prime pedigree immediately making him one to watch for in the hip-hop scene. The class truly shines with Swanny.95!


Your Old Droog – “The Groundhog”

Your Old Droog returns with his latest single “The Groundhog“. The Ukrainian-born American rapper delivers a jazzy Znakomi-laced gem that’s as smooth as it is insightful. Droog‘s lyrical prowess shines bright as he drops truth bombs left and right. It’s no surprise that this is so good given he’s been on fire lately, dropping a slew of top-notch projects with various collaborators, but this laid-back gem leaves us eager for more.


A$AP Rocky – “Same Problems?”

A$AP Rocky‘s new song, “Same Problems?” is a poignant tribute to the late artists of the hip-hop community. The track, which serves as a prelude to Rocky‘s upcoming album “Don’t Be Dumb,” features a lush bass line and a euphoric synth that creates an ethereal atmosphere. Rocky‘s rhymes are crystalline and heartfelt, and he builds on Kid Cudi‘s “Day ‘N’ Night (Nightmare)” to pose the question, “How many problems get solved? Am I a product of all my flaws?” The scattered voices that respond to Rocky‘s call make for a chilling and emotional experience. The forthcoming album promises to represent his artistic and personal growth,


El Michels Affair & Black Thought – “Grateful”

El Michels Affair and Black Thought have released a new single “Grateful” from their upcoming joint album titled “Glorious Game” set to be released on April 14. During the pandemic, Black Thought reached out to El Michels Affair founder, Leon Michels, for beats and ended up creating a full album. The song features thudding percussions and a whistling flute, making it physically impossible not to groove along with. Black Thought‘s clever lyrics and ever-impressive flow complement the track perfectly. This is not the first time Black Thought has collaborated on an album recently, having released the brilliant Cheat Codes with Danger Mouse just a few months ago.