Kota the Friend Releases
Just Happy To Be Here

Independent Recording Artist Kota the Friend Releases Album ‘Just Happy To Be Here’ for New Music Friday

BROOKLYN, N.Y. — July 31, 2026 — Independent recording artist Kota the Friend today officially released his new album, Just Happy To Be Here, now available on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, TIDAL, and all major streaming platforms as part of this week's New Music Friday releases.

Created entirely on his own terms, Just Happy To Be Here reflects Kota's continued commitment to artistic independence while delivering the introspective songwriting, soulful production, and authentic storytelling that have made him one of independent hip hop's most respected independent voices.

"This album is a reflection of where I am in life right now," said Kota the Friend. "I'm grateful to everyone who has supported me on this journey. Whether you've been listening since the beginning or you're just discovering my music, thank you for allowing me to keep creating independently."

The 10-track album features guest appearances from Loony and Lisa Chiodo, with production from Eeryskies, Powers Pleasant, ORIGAMI, Aja Grant, MAX HE, Bobby Wooten, and Pat Finnerty. Together, the collaborators create an album that seamlessly blends hip hop, jazz, soul, and acoustic influences while staying true to Kota's signature sound and artistic vision.

The release coincides with Kota's Just Happy To Be Here Tour, where audiences across the country are experiencing the new music live alongside fan favorites from throughout his catalog. The tour reflects the same independent spirit that has defined Kota's career and continues to strengthen his direct connection with fans nationwide.

For more than a decade, Kota the Friend has built a successful career outside the traditional major-label system by maintaining ownership of his music, cultivating a direct relationship with listeners, and remaining committed to creative freedom. Just Happy To Be Here continues that journey with a collection of songs centered on gratitude, perspective, growth, and appreciating life's moments.

Fans can stream Just Happy To Be Here now on all major digital music platforms and follow Kota the Friend for tour updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming announcements.

Just Happy To Be Here — Track Listing & Credits

1. Pasadena II — Produced by Eeryskies
2. February — Produced by Powers Pleasant
3. Adventure Time (feat. Loony) — Produced by ORIGAMI
4. Long Beach II — Produced by ORIGAMI
5. Regular Show — Produced by Eeryskies
6. The Ferry (feat. Lisa Chiodo) — Produced by Eeryskies
7. Payback — Produced by Aja Grant
8. Whatever You Say — Produced by MAX HE
9. Mallory — Produced by Bobby Wooten
10. Just Like Before — Produced by Bobby Wooten & Pat Finnerty

Listen to the Album

For Fans Of

Independent hip hop, jazz rap, soulful production, introspective lyricism, artist-owned music, and authentic storytelling

Listen to Just Happy To Be Here 

Tour Dates: https://kotathefriend.com/tour

About Kota the Friend

Kota the Friend is a Brooklyn-born independent recording artist, producer, entrepreneur, and founder of FLTBYS. Through thoughtful songwriting, innovative production, and a direct-to-fan approach, he has built one of independent music's most respected careers without signing to a major record label. His commitment to ownership, creativity, and authenticity has earned him millions of streams worldwide and a devoted global fanbase.

With Just Happy To Be Here, Kota continues to demonstrate what's possible when artists retain creative control, own their work, and build meaningful relationships with listeners around the world.

Media Contact

JIG Media
Vernon Jones, Sr.
Email: [email protected]