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.
East London-based singer-songwriter Nectar Woode unveils her latest single ‘Nothing To Lose’, the title track from her upcoming debut EP set to release on February 23 via Communion. Combining honeyed vocals, a hip-hop beat, and soulful gospel tones, Nectar Woode solidifies her presence in the music scene. The single’s accompanying video encapsulates the artist’s remarkable journey and experiences from the previous year. ‘Nothing To Lose’ serves as a testament to resilience in the face of life’s challenges, reflecting Nectar’s maturity and the support of friends and family. The artist continues to garner support and is positioning herself for success in 2024.
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Atlanta-based Contemporary R&B and pop artist JOIE GREY unveils his latest single ‘Rolling Thunder (Under The Influence)’. Born Jonathan Green in Montgomery, Alabama, JOIE GREY is not only a singer-songwriter but also a skilled producer. With a musical foundation laid by his Grandmother and Mother, both professional musicians, and inspired by legends like Michael Jackson, JOIE GREY brings a unique blend of influences to his work. ‘Rolling Thunder (Under The Influence)’ is the product of collaboration with songwriter Sam Hook during a summer session in Los Angeles. As part of his ambitious goal to release 24 songs in 2024, the track reflects JOIE GREY’s diverse musical journey.
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South London native Eleazar brings a blend of R&B, neo-soul and indie influences to her music. With a talent for weaving emotions and experiences into her lyrics and melodies, Eleazar has been writing songs since the age of 7. Her work reflects the perspective of a poet and the heart of a lover, capturing the highs and lows of her journey as an outlander. The artist’s new single ‘Deja’ explores the weariness that arises from cycles in relationships that aren’t healthy. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of self-love and taking control, encouraging listeners to pause and breathe amid life’s challenges.
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Natalie, the indie artist celebrated for her “anti-genre” style, unveils her latest single ‘Glass’. With meticulous production, the track offers an authentic auditory experience, defying conventional genres. This single seamlessly blends crisp, rhythmic vocals with ethereal undertones, creating a nuanced emotional ambiance. Its fluid transitions and universal adaptability make it ideal for global radio airplay. Lyrically, Natalie explores the aftermath of a strained relationship, delving into emotional turmoil, unanswered calls, and the struggle for connection amid pleas for space. The song metaphorically depicts a fragile “glass house” built on lies, echoing transparency and inevitable exposure. Natalie crafted ‘Glass’ to fuse sonically vibrant, dance-inducing production with an exploration of the intricate aftermath of a relationship entangled in deception, offering a relatable yet upbeat experience.
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Aloysius Bell, the alter ego of singer-songwriter Annick Brémault, introduces her debut EP, Warm Thing, with new single ‘Wreckage’ which showcases a unique blend of pop, R&B, and electro influences. Collaborating with Toronto artist Driftnote and mixer David Plowman, Bell delves into otherworldly realms, crafting a sonic journey that mirrors her soul-searching. The soulful track ‘Wreckage’ captures a universal sentiment born from a personal conflict, revealing the poetical and the raw. Brémault reflects on the unpredictable nature of human emotions during disputes with loved ones, highlighting the humor in the childishness that often accompanies such moments. ‘Warm Thing’ invites listeners into the vulnerability of art, normalizing and making accessible the intricacies of human connection.
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French-Caribbean singer, bassist, and producer Adi Oasis continues to enchant with her soulful offerings, notably the single ‘Serena’ featuring Samm Henshaw. Amidst the pandemic, this unique artist has provided solace through a steady stream of soulful releases, showcasing her unique fusion of funk, R&B, and soul. Collaborating with artists like Masego, Blue Lab Beats, and Kamauu, Adi Oasis navigates diverse musical landscapes. ‘Serena’, a standout from the deluxe album Lotus Glow, celebrates influential women, amassing over 30 million streams and earning global praise that attests to Adi Oasis’s undeniable musical prowess.
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Soulful singer-songwriter Kenny Sharp introduces his captivating single ‘Hold On’. Renowned for his unique genre, “Brown Liquor Music”, Kenny’s raw and powerful delivery, infused with poetic lyricism, defines his distinct sound. Transitioning from a rapper to a singer, this artist’s evolution is evident in his fresh yet soulful appearance. Co-written with Parson James (known for Kygo’s “Stole The Show”) and Phil Towns (Anderson East), ‘Hold On’ is a testament to Kenny Sharp’s collaborative prowess. With an old soul revealed through poignant storytelling, the track unveils the depth of this standout creative’s musical journey, promising a soul-stirring experience for listeners.
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Jacques-Pierre, the dynamic French-German duo comprising Giuliano Loli and Nils Wrasse, presents their captivating single ‘Catwalk’. Following their 2023 debut ‘Water Bottoms’, which seamlessly merged their distinct styles, the duo continues their musical journey with an unparalleled blend of pop and soul vibes in ‘Catwalk’. With infectious rhythms and soulful melodies, the track showcases Jacques-Pierre’s versatility and talent, transcending genres. Featuring Icelandic singer Hrafnhildur Ingólfsdóttir, this song is an irresistible gem radiating an energy bound to get listeners moving. The song not only reflects the duo’s prowess in crafting immersive musical experiences but also underscores their ability to create soulful, genre-defying soundscapes.
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PURPLE MELON 