We all know that one song on an album that would have been a hit in an ideal world but ends up being one of the least streamed tracks on the record (played by the same 5-10 people every day, no less). These hidden gems are more popularly known as deep cuts, and this week we made a list of some of our favorite ones. They may not have gone #1 on the charts but they did in our hearts and that’s all that matters!
If these are songs you already know and love, congratulations! You’re part of the 1%. If you don’t know them, give them a spin and thank us later! xoxo
Villain- Rema
Although it’s true that the best Rema x P.Priime song ever is usually the next one, this one is definitely up there with the top 5 greatest tracks these two have ever cooked up together. Which is why we cannot for the life of us understand why “Villain” is not one of the most streamed songs off HEIS. Seriously, what’s not to like? The Lana Del Rey sample, the delicious velocity of the bass or Rema spitting straight game for 2 and a half minutes? Truly mind-boggling. Anyway, for those of us who got it the first time, how’s life in 2053?
Amina- Mavins
Between you and this author, this song should have gotten the “Won Da Mo” treatment (Yes, we said it. Catch it marketing!). In terms of deep cuts, this is definitely one of our personal favorites from the Chapter X Album. First of all, anytime you hear the “Vibez” producer tag at the beginning of a song you already know it’s about to be one. From the spicy Mavin all-star verses to the snake charmer melodies in the chorus, “Amina” is positively sizzling. Top 3 on the album for sure!
Bridgertn- Ayra Starr
We all agree that this 19 & Dangerous deep cut would definitely go #1 in Queen Charlotte’s chambers, right? (BTW Bridgerton producers if you’re reading this, an orchestral version of this song on the season 4 soundtrack would be sweet! Think about it.) All in all, Ayra Starr’s “Bridgertn” is everything you would expect from the Afropop princess that was promised. Just look at the material. Walking through the city in Fendi Jeans, stepping on toes in Ivy boots, breaking rules-and stereotypes-with opal in her grills? So fetch.
LIES (To Whom It May Concern)- Johnny Drille
One of the best things about Johnny Drille’s debut album “Before We Fall Asleep” is our introduction to his genre-bending alter ego JD. While Johnny Drille is known mainly for dreamy folk ballads and love songs, JD is a bit more versatile. On “LIES” he is a raging heavy metal rockstar/freedom fighter, and we are LIVING for it. JD does not mince words as he speaks truth to power, and he definitely doesn’t hold back when he sings about taking our country back on the outro (His vocals? Rock legends everywhere were shaking). Of all the “JD” songs off BWFA, “LIES” is the most shocking-in the best way possible.
Love Essential-Ladipoe (feat. Amaarae)
Off Ladipoe’s Providence EP, “Love Essential” has the dreamy, cloud-like quality of alte music in its golden era. Amaarae’s airy vocals are as resplendent ever and Ladipoe’s knack for making sense of love and heartbreak through his words shines through once more. “Love Essential” is as visceral as it is comforting, and every listen feels like floating. We highly recommend this one for moments of deep yearning and existential contemplation.
