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.
Let’s dive into this week’s Sounds of R&B & Soul playlist with Joel Culpepper’s single ‘Free’, featuring Tom Misch, from his upcoming EP, Happiness Is Only A Few Miles Away. This dynamic track combines Joel’s soulful vocals with Tom Misch’s production expertise, offering a fresh take on retro-soul. The EP’s creation during their tour together and collaboration with Eddie Chacon adds a layer of serendipity to the project. Joel’s newfound inspiration from nature and meditation shines through, giving the music an authentic, heartfelt quality. ‘Free’ is a testament to Joel’s growth and self-acceptance, encapsulating themes of liberation and resilience. It’s a musical moment that reminds us of the power of choice in our pursuit of happiness.
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Capturing the essence of self-worth in love, ‘Golden’ radiates with a sublime blend of neo-soul and R&B influences. This chilled, gospel-tinged single showcases both delicate and sassy lyrics, demanding the respect and adoration that one deserves. The song’s shimmering instrumentation and soulful vocal runs create a passionate atmosphere reminiscent of classic soul legends like Marvin Gaye, with a modern twist inspired by artists like Sabrina Claudio and Frank Ocean. ‘Golden’ is a celebration of self-love and the beauty of being adored. As part of the debut album, Romance, it sets the stage for a musical journey filled with emotion and soulful elegance.
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With a voice that radiates warmth and vulnerability, Ella Thompson’s ‘To Light The Lantern’ is a celestial masterpiece that transcends musical boundaries, crafting a sonic universe where avant-garde meets cinematic soul and funk. Her poetic pop is a mesmerizing journey that invites listeners into a safe and introspective space. Through her music, Ella channels the weight of responsibility and vulnerability that many women in the industry face. Yet, she does so with newfound confidence, fearlessly expressing herself. This transformative track is a testament to her artistry and ability to create music that resonates deeply. ‘To Light The Lantern’ is a shining beacon of Ella Thompson’s talent and vision.
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Newcomer Kylie’s latest single ‘Saturday’ is a captivating blend of 90s R&B nostalgia with a modern twist. With lyrics in three languages – English, Japanese, and Chinese – and featuring Chinese rapper CaTEye, this track is a testament to the global reach of R&B music. ‘Saturday’ exudes a sense of romanticism and open-heartedness, capturing the essence of youthful love and desire. The artist’s soulful vocals and the smooth, groovy production transport listeners to a time when R&B was at its peak. This song is a testament to Kylie’s versatility as an artist, seamlessly incorporating different languages and styles into her music. ‘Saturday’ is a delightful addition to her growing discography, showcasing her talent and multicultural appeal.
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Hailing from Houston, Texas, Bryant Barnes emerges on the music scene with his debut lo-fi R&B single ‘Adore You’, quickly gaining viral recognition and the approval of artists like Trippie Redd and Kodak Black. Bryant is a multi-talented musician who shines on this track. Sparse production, featuring delicate acoustic guitar, creates an intimate backdrop for his emotionally charged vocals. The lyrics reveal the turmoil of uncertainty in a relationship, amplified by relentless overthinking. Bryant’s confession, “All I want to do is adore you,” on the chorus, encapsulates the intensity of pursuing love. Keep an eye on this prodigious artist as he prepares for more releases in 2023.
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INNOMUNO’s ‘Roora’ is a heartfelt journey to Zimbabwe’s core, where love unfurls amidst tradition and dedication. The song beautifully weaves a tale of devotion, as a young man promises his beloved a future filled with marriage. Against a backdrop of cultural significance, The song narrates a story of patience and ambition, emphasizing the commitment and responsibility it takes to gather the bride price (Roora). INNOMUNO’s emotive vocals resonate deeply, capturing the universal emotions of longing and determination. With enchanting melodies and heartfelt lyrics, ‘Roora’ paints a vivid picture of love’s journey within the vibrant tapestry of Zimbabwean traditions.
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From Allen Anjeh’s debut EP, Ó mmɛ ne, we have lead single ‘I SEE U’, which bring a fresh wave of alt-R&B to the music scene. Collaborating with talents like AZEKEL, Esben Zefting, Mark Fosnæs, and Mont Jake, Allen crafts a stunning collection that explores human connections, vulnerability, love, and communication barriers. Her Cameroonian-Danish background infuses her music with a unique blend of influences, resulting in a sound that’s both captivating and deeply personal. ‘I SEE U’ is a standout track that radiates positivity and joy, showcasing Allen’s ability to channel her experiences into music that resonates on a profound level. Expect her to make a significant impact on the alt-R&B scene.
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With a soulful and evocative voice reminiscent of Erykah Badu and Jill Scott, Carmen Nichole weaves a tale of overcoming life’s obstacles, drawing inspiration from the indomitable spirit of Dory from Finding Nemo. As such, ‘Dory Said’ is a moving tribute to resilience and the power of inner strength. The song’s lyrics are deeply introspective, offering a message of hope and determination. Backed by a resonant melody and soul-stirring instrumentation, ‘Dory Said’ is an anthem for anyone facing adversity, reminding us that we have the inner fortitude to triumph over life’s challenges. Carmen Nichole’s music is a testament to her journey and an inspiration to all.
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Delving into the complexities of love and change, Gregory Hutchinson’s ‘Losing You’ featuring Leona Berlin is a poignant and emotive listen. Leona’s soulful lyrics beautifully narrate the highs and lows of a passionate relationship, where fear of stagnation and the desire for growth collide. The track’s dense, rumbling soundscapes, including intricately syncopated drums, ethereal keys, and captivating strings, create a captivating sonic backdrop. This song is a testament to Gregory’s versatility and innovation as a musician, showcasing his ability to craft deeply personal yet universally relatable music. With its soul-stirring narrative and rich musical textures, ‘Losing You’ is a compelling preview of Hutchinson’s upcoming debut album, DA BANG, and reaffirms his status as a highly regarded musician in the jazz and R&B genres.
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At just 20-years-old, Dutch singing sensation JAÏNDA showcases a vocal maturity well beyond her years in ‘Cyanide & Oxygen’, which is a hauntingly beautiful tale of a toxic relationship. Her ethereal voice, reminiscent of iconic singers from the past, is seamlessly woven into a contemporary musical landscape. The song’s emotional depth takes listeners on a rollercoaster ride through the tumultuous ups and downs of love gone awry. With the addition of Eric Vloeimans’ evocative trumpet and Mucky’s co-production, ‘Cyanide & Oxygen’ becomes a masterful composition that lingers in the mind long after the music fades, solidifying JAÏNDA as a rising star to watch in the music industry.
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PURPLE MELON 