Rap essentials

This is 1Xtra’s Rap List your essential guide to the week’s biggest rap, drill, grime and hip-hop records. If it’s in the culture, it’s on the list.

From Tion Wayne’s slick “Streets A Lie” and Cardi B’s double dose of heat, to legacy moves from J. Cole and Ludacris, this week’s rundown blends global heavyweights with the UK artists setting the pace. Skepta links up with FinesseKid, Headie One keeps pressure on with “Bellingham”, and Central Cee, Clavish and AJ Tracey remind you why the UK scene stays dominant.

There’s serious variety too Little Simz delivers substance, KiLLOWEN and Nemzzz fly the flag for the new gen, while Meekz levels up with back-to-back energy. Add in Latto, Ice Spice, 21 Savage, Doechii and Don Toliver, and you’ve got a playlist that moves from bar-heavy to viral in seconds.

Handpicked by the team at BBC Radio 1Xtra, these are the tracks your timeline’s quoting, your group chats are debating and your favourite artists are rating. Stay ahead of the curve or catch up on what you missed this is Rap List.

Listen on BBC Sounds. If you’re listening from outside the UK, check availability on the BBC Sounds app.

Produced by BBC Audio for BBC Radio 1Xtra.