You’d think that a song that contains the line “I need a money machine” wouldn’t really have a place on SOTB. Considering the tracks I’ve seen–and declined–over the past few years, I wouldn’t blame you. I tend to avoid “let’s get this money” songs. However, there’s something about the laidback vibes of King $ly’s “Balloons” that grabs onto you and makes you just fall in love with its “I need the money, and I’ve gotta get it” energies.

He’s got a Chance meets Cole thing going on the flow, as it’s a bit bouncy and the like but also grounded in less-animated flows as well. Plus, the instrumental? It’s smooth and silky (with the sax rounding out the outro), but it’s also contemporary enough that it’s a trunk rattler. I like this one, and it keeps some of the same energies $ly gave us on “OTW.” “OTW” was a song that I featured on my IG feed earlier in the month (before I started the “SOTBMusic Quickies” series). Check out “Balloons” below and remember to support dope music in all its forms.