We’re playing some cool R&B/Hip-Hop tracks this week, from slow, seductive tunes to intense and inspirational. Enjoy our selection of what’s hot on the airwaves both locally and internationally as you take a break this weekend.

Sure Thing – Miguel

He’s still enjoying the success of his debut single All I Want Is You which features rapper J Cole, and up-and-coming R&B crooner Miguel has again caught our attention with this romantic track. And with lyrics like: Even when we’re down to the wire babe/Even when it’s do or die/This love is a sure thing… We’re sure he’s been getting a lot of attention from his female fans, too.

Far Away – Marsha Ambrosius

Former Floetry singer Marsha Ambrosius lent her powerful vocals to Nigerian-American rapper Wale’s Diary, earning even more recognition last year. And her new single Far Away continues this trend. The track features a rather arresting music video depicting a gay man who is shoved aside by his community and commits suicide as a result. It is based on a true story, and the singer uses it to take a stand against bullying. It is, as expected, one of the most talked-about videos currently.

Lay It Down – Lloyd

There is no denying that this song’s infectious chorus makes an impression and the fact that it is a groovy-gangsta-type love song with an upbeat rhythm, makes it all the more fun to listen to. Little wonder younguns, and females especially, can’t stop singing ‘Lay your heeeeaaad on my pillow, lay it down’.

Skin – Rihanna

The mood is set uh-huh, so you already know what’s next

TV on blast, turn it down, turn it down…

Don’t want it to clash when my body’s screaming out oh…

The Bajan songstress already has a slew of hits under her belt and this provocative track, in which she invites her lover to prepare for a ‘skin connection’, may well be among them.

No BS – Chris Brown

Interestingly, Brown’s single seems to be the male counterpart to Rihanna’s suggestive track Skin, which has prompted much discussion, especially as they were both released at around the same time. Whatever the case, we’re certainly loving this seductive track and its equally titillating backbeat.

Words I Never Said – Lupe Fiasco and Skylar Grey

The title of this track sounds like the typical story of a romance gone awry, or a case of someone reflecting on and regretting their past actions. But interestingly, it is actually a very intense social commentary about the US government’s failed policies, the rapper giving his uncensored opinions of not just the current president, but also the country’s immediate past leader.