We do not have the capacity to cover all these major tracks coming out.

YG is back and ready to bring a different kind of heat to the summer. The Compton-raised rapper has just announced that his new single, “Lovers & Friends,” will be released this Friday, and from the title alone, it looks like fans can expect something a little more personal and possibly more melodic than his typical hard-hitting anthems.

This announcement follows a productive run for YG, who dropped Just Re’d Up 3 last August—a mixtape that served both as a throwback to his early days and a nod to his street-certified roots. That project saw YG revisit his raw, unfiltered West Coast sound with contributions from longtime collaborators like DJ Mustard, and it helped reestablish his dominance in L.A. rap circles.

But it was “2004,” a standout single that followed the project, that showcased YG’s deeper artistic range. The track was surprisingly vulnerable, with the rapper reflecting on past trauma and being taken advantage of during his youth. It was one of his most personal songs to date, resonating with longtime fans who’ve followed him beyond the party tracks and street anthems.

Then came “HOLLYWOOD,” a slick, addictive West Coast heater that’s been steadily gaining steam across California. With its bounce-heavy production and radio-friendly appeal, the track has been getting mad burn on L.A. stations and in the streets alike.

Now, with “Lovers & Friends” on the way, it’s hard to pinpoint which direction he will go artistically. One thing I know is this: He doesn’t make bad projects at all.

Quincy

Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.