R&B and soul are two of those classic sounds that haven’t wavered over the years, instead they’ve continued to evolve and branch out into exciting new frontiers. So without further ado, let’s have a listen.
First on our soul and R&B playlist is Benji Brown’s ‘Goodbye’, a touching track that delves into the complexities of a fading relationship, with poignant vocals and piano-led melodies that evoke nostalgia. Inspired by personal experiences, Benji’s introspective lyrics convey the conflict of acknowledging the need to part ways. ‘Goodbye’ captures the essence of parting with a past relationship, where faded feelings drive the necessity of departure. It’s full of musical maturity and ability to convey raw emotions are evident, solidifying his status as a rising star in the pop scene. Returning after 2021’s ‘Let It All Go’, Benji Brown effortlessly channels 90s R&B vibes into an emotionally charged ballad.
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Hailing from East London, Zardee’s drives diverse influences into new single ‘Waste No Time’. Drawing inspiration from Shaka and Masego, this artist brings together soul, jazz, and hints of amapiano house, creating a genre-defying sound that’s fresh and captivating. With heartfelt vocals leading the way, the track pays homage to a magnetic woman from East London. The song’s fusion of classic R&B vibes with contemporary trends presents a sonic landscape that’s both familiar and refreshingly new. As a limitless creative who’s also a host and actor, Zardee’s multifaceted talent shines through in ‘Waste No Time.’
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Seamlessly blending R&B, hip-hop, neo-soul, house, and pop, Jade Fields delivers standout single ‘Summer Dream’. Following the well-received ‘Blue Yaris’, he crafts an experience that pushes alt-R&B boundaries while spotlighting Asian representation in music. The song explores the poignant paradox of simultaneous joy and sorrow, as nostalgia tinges every sunset and summer activity with the absence of a past love. ‘Summer Dream’ becomes a resonating anthem for those who understand the intertwined dance of happiness and heartache. In 100 soulful seconds, Jade Fields crafts a microcosm of emotions that linger long after the track ends.
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‘Ready For It’ from Kevin Ross is a luminous R&B gem that strikes the perfect balance between romanticism and authenticity. Serving as the lead single from his upcoming EP, the track exudes a pulsating energy wrapped in a layer of wanderlust-infused guitar riffs. Kevin masterfully blends heartfelt lyrics with infectious beats, proving that vulnerability doesn’t equate to weakness. Collaborating with Eric Bellinger, their harmonies intertwine flawlessly, creating an immersive sonic experience. As an artist who has consistently disrupted R&B norms, Kevin Ross continues to shine on the charts while maintaining his signature charm. ‘Ready For It’ is a daring ode to modern love, solidifying his position as an R&B trailblazer.
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New Jersey singer, songwriter and producer Still Summer exudes synthy R&B vibes inspired by the likes of Bruno Mars and The Weeknd in new single ‘Break My Heart Again’. The track’s exploration of an on-and-off relationship encapsulates emotional depth reminiscent of modern pop-inflected sounds. A falsetto introduction, accompanied by lush harmonies, sets the tone before seamlessly transitioning into a beat-driven composition. The artist’s voice, reminiscent of dynamic frontmen from the ’80s up till now, delivers dynamic contrasts between falsetto and bold choruses. With its evolving arrangement and skillful callbacks, ‘Break My Heart Again’ unfolds as a captivating journey through heartbreak.
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Defying musical norms with a seamless fusion of R&B, soul, and hip-hop, GraffiArts challenges convention with ‘Where You Go’. The tracks navigate a spectrum of emotions and energies. GraffiArts’ unique choice of words and flow, combined with immersive backgrounds and ambiances, is bound to keep listeners engaged. This rich backdrop also sets the tone with a dapper bassline and the entire track exudes heavenly R&B vibes. GraffiArts proves himself an artist to watch, leaving a trail of sonic excellence. If ‘Where You Go’ is your kind of thing, then be sure to check out his EP, Whose Brian, showcases a masterful command over various styles and blends from jazz to trap to much more.
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Co-written and produced by Bad Sounds (Arlo Parks, Rose Gray), ‘Good Vibrations’ is the new work from Nectar Woodes. Oozing with musical sophistication this soulful delight showcases the artist’s unique blend of jazz-inspired guitar chords and velvety vocals. Hailing from East London with Ghanaian and British roots, Nectar Woode draws from a deep well of influences, including Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, and D’Angelo. Her upbringing in a creatively charged household and immersion in London’s vibrant jazz community have molded her into the artist she is today. ‘Good Vibrations’ is a compelling sign of her bright future in music.
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Born and raised in Washington, DC, Makeda brings a blend of alternative R&B and soul to her music, drawing inspiration from legendary artists like Sade and Prince. With blissful new anthem ‘Come Over’, she captures the essence of a carefree summer fling. The track is all about living in the moment, letting loose, and embracing the thrill of staying up all night and making love. It’s a reminder that summer is a time for spontaneity and seizing the day, without dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. Makeda’s smooth vocals and catchy melodies make ‘Come Over’ the perfect soundtrack for those warm, unforgettable summer nights.
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Hailing from Bristol but now based in London, Charlotte Lansman combines her powerful contralto voice with a poetic, soul-infused songwriting style in refreshing new single ‘Stupid Love’. Tapping into the exhilarating whirlwind of new romance, the song paints vivid scenes of those magical moments in budding love, where the mere thought of that special someone brings an unexpected smile or a spontaneous laugh. Opening with a laid-back vibe, ‘Stupid Love’ takes a retro turn with synths and transports listeners to a vibrant, groovy soundscape. The lead guitar’s playful riff and the infectious Latin-jazz beat from the drums make this track an irresistible celebration of the euphoria that accompanies new love.
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Drawing from her diverse musical background, which includes jazz studies at Berklee College of Music, Courtney Cooper infuses her music with a sultry, ’90s-inspired essence. In ‘The Mood’, the Brooklynite delivers a tantalizing slice of alternative R&B. Her vocals are a creamy delight, oozing soulfulness and perfectly complementing the jazz-infused beats. ‘The Mood’ is a sensory journey, where electric guitars add a sensual layer to the golden era R&B vibes. It’s a track that invites you to close your eyes and surrender to its sonic euphoria, a delectable treat of pure, mouth-watering temptation.
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‘Holding Pattern’ introduces listeners to a sultry, soulful soundscape crafted by a talented trio of female vocalists, collectively known as Menajerie. Gracie Mack, Rosa Mack, and Mel Galletly unite their enchanting voices and lyrical prowess over irresistible grooves, setting the stage for their upcoming debut EP, Selective Deafness. The song delves into the frustration of self-imposed cycles, reflecting life’s complexities with confrontational yet alluring vocals. Its fusion of neo-soul and hip-hop harmonies, underscored by magnetic grooves, creates a captivating musical experience. ‘Holding Pattern’ is an intoxicating journey, where simmering passion eventually crescendos into electrifying harmonies, mirroring life’s intricate patterns. With this enticing single, Menajerie is poised to make waves as they prepare to release of their EP.
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Hari’s latest release ‘More Than a Woman’ is a soulful journey through the tumultuous landscape of heartbreak. With a delicate R&B vocal delivery and beautiful guitar accompaniment, the artist captures the full spectrum of emotions that follow a painful breakup. The song begins with the heart-wrenching feeling of rejection, conveying the rawness of that initial loss. As the track unfolds, it takes the listener on a transformative journey of growth and acceptance. ‘More Than a Woman’ is a testament to Hari’s songwriting prowess, painting a poignant picture of the complexities of love and loss. A must-listen for R&B enthusiasts, it’s a promising preview of her upcoming Mixed Reviews on Love EP.
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PURPLE MELON 