yU Feat. Danedra Rowell “Dreams”

“The A-side of the next installment in Mello Music Group’s 7” Series comes from Diamond District/1978er producer/emcee yU. The gruff DMV MC is known for philosophical street rap but “Dreams” takes a different route – the result a hauntingly beautiful track likely to end up on repeat.

Enlisting Danedra Rowell on vocals, yU eschews the new age boom-bap that got him noticed for something closer to all of our heartstrings. Featuring no rapped bars, “Dreams” is a bittersweet ballad that is less literal than emotive. It captures that late-night, pensive feeling us music heads are very familiar with. yU is able to craft a sound that is universal and hyper-local, breaking new ground for himself musically. The drums sound like they could be on any Diamond District-related project but the melody and chords don’t sound too far from something that could find its way onto radio.

Peeling back yet another layer of sound from his extensive pallet, yU is proving his versatility as a musician. “Dreams” along with the b-side “Prior Days” officially comes out on limited edition (300 copies only) vinyl 7” this Tuesday – though it is shipping early from MMG now!”


Download the joint HERE
Cop The 7inch HERE

yU Feat. Duff “I Believe” (Prod. By Charlie Ross)

Peep the new track from yU that was released for MLK day (I know, I know, I’m mad late posting)…


Download the joint HERE

yU Feat. Bilal Salaam & Danedra Rowell “Time Machine”

“The sophomore album from Suitland, Maryland’s yU (of Diamond District & The 1978ers) has been building steam since it’s release before the holidays, earning critical acclaim from a lot of our other favorite sites. Well, 2012 is here and yU’s back with more music for the movement! Today’s new yU single is Time Machine, a relaxed reminiscing that takes listeners back. Enjoy the music!”


Download the joint HERE

yU Feat. EyeQ “Can’t Hide”

“Today, enjoy the non-album bonus cut from yU “Can’t Hide” (ft. EyeQ) produced by Slimkat78. Slimkat78′s production features vocal sample and chopped up horns while yU and guest MC, EyeQ, trade verses. The combination between yU, EyeQ, and Slimkat78 seems effortless while yU and EyeQ’s chemistry is undeniable.”


Download the track HERE

Purchase yU’s “The Earn” HERE

yU Talks About His Album “The EARN” (Video)

“yU’s new album The EARN is officially in-stores everywhere today digitally and on CD! To give listeners a little more insight, yU sat down with director Heron Gibran to discus the new album and music as both progression and record. The EARN has been receiving vast critical praise, and underground album of the year talk is already buzzing, thanks to The EARN’s nuanced production, lyrical texture and cinematic feel. Be sure and buy the album today and take moment to watch yU, the Humble King, explain his new record.”

yU “Blind” (Prod. Kev Brown)

“To celebrate the sophomore release from yU, we are giving away the song Blind which NahRight featured in a special sneak preview. Enjoy the song & be sure to support the album!”


Download the joint HERE

Purchase “The Earn” on iTunes HERE