Forever 23

Born and raised in the small town of Bogalusa, Louisiana, Jaydayoungan soaked up inspiration from a long lineage of local icons—particularly guys like Lil Boosie and Kevin Gates—who channeled wizened bluesmen that just so happen to rap. But on *Forever 23*, the MC carves out his own lane that’s informed as much by warbly R&B and Chief Keef-style chants as by his Louisiana roots. (You don’t have to listen too close to hear hints of “Love Sosa” singsong on tracks like “Early Morning” and “Thot Thot”—and that’s a compliment.) But tape highlight “Every Chain On” is pure Southern smoke, as Jay makes violent threats sound downright relaxing.