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.
Afgan unveils ‘Shallow Water’, a soul-stirring ballad exploring the depths of love and fear. Released alongside a poignant music video, the track delves into the complexities of past traumas hindering relationships, capturing the fear of making mistakes and drowning in emotions. Afgan’s emotionally charged vocals and introspective lyrics showcase his prowess as one of Indonesia’s brightest stars. Set to feature on his forthcoming English-language album, Sonder, the song marks a deeply personal release for the Jakarta-based superstar. With sold-out U.S. concert debuts and a growing international fanbase, Afgan continues to redefine Indonesian music on the global stage with his commanding presence and R&B sensibilities.
Follow Afgan on Instagram.
Lusaint’s latest single ‘Sweet Tooth’ is a captivating blend of infectious grooves and soulful vocals. With a cool guitar intro leading into a commanding rhythm, Lusaint’s melodic prowess shines through as she navigates the complexities of desire and temptation. Backed by funky basslines and elegant piano chords, her emotive delivery encapsulates the struggle of breaking free from addictive relationships. The track follows a string of successful releases, showcasing Lusaint’s talent for crafting memorable melodies and heartfelt lyrics. As anticipation builds for her debut self sabotage EP, produced by industry heavyweight Blue May, ‘Sweet Tooth’ serves as a tantalizing taste of what’s to come from this Manchester-based songstress.
Follow Luisant on Instagram.
MRCY’s debut single ‘Lorelei’ captivates with its blend of commanding vocals, ethereal psychedelics, and nostalgic arrangements. Inspired by the ancient tale of Lorelei, the song explores the allure of a romantic situation destined for heartbreak. Producer Barney Lister and vocalist Kojo Degraft-Johnson, hailing from diverse backgrounds, infuse their music with a timeless warmth reminiscent of Marvin Gaye, while embracing a contemporary approach akin to Anderson .Paak and Khruangbin. Their collaboration, born out of shared experiences and a desire for self-expression, offers a fresh perspective on soul music, bridging past and present with universal themes of love, loss, and resilience.
Follow MRCY on Spotify.
The emerging UK singer-songwriter of Nigerian and Grenadian descent FromJerome bursts onto the scene with ‘Next Day Delivery’, blending dancehall, afrobeats, and R&B influences. After generating buzz on TikTok, his fans eagerly awaited the release, finally dropping this week, which will be followed by a Valentine’s Day video release. FromJerome’s emotive lyrics and smooth vocals shine, reflecting the diverse sound palette of his city. Describing the track as a fun creation from his bedroom, he emphasizes its personal significance and growth in his music. With an EP on the horizon, ‘Next Day Delivery’ marks the promising debut of this talented artist.
Follow FromJerome on Instagram.
Norwegian artist Mathilde Widding delivers her soulful essence in the latest release ‘Goodbyes’. Influenced by 60’s soul and contemporary R&B, the artist’s mature vocals carry a depth of emotion, weaving seamlessly through the modern soul soundscape. With previous hits like ‘Halfway’, ‘Stronger’, and ‘Love’ (and everything between), Mathilde continues to captivate audiences with her versatile style and rich vocal expression. ‘Goodbyes’ showcases her distinctive artistry, enveloping listeners in a heart-wrenching journey through soul and R&B. As her fifth release, the song promises to enchant with its raw emotion and soulful touch, marking another milestone in Mathilde Widding’s promising career.
Follow Mathilde Widding on Instagram.
Tim Atlas unveils a sun-splashed sound, a cinematic escape into a world of introspection with ‘Lifehouse’. The single, a departure from his recent nocturnal-inspired EP, delves into the idea of letting go while finding solace in the lasting impact of those we hold dear. Known for his blend of R&B, neo-soul, and alternative pop, channels personal experiences into his music, crafting relatable narratives that resonate deeply with listeners. As he continues to evolve as an artist, Tim Atlas remains rooted in authenticity, drawing inspiration from his upbringing and life experiences. With ‘Lifehouse’, Tim Atlas sets the stage for another impactful year in music.
Follow Tim Atlas on Instagram.
Kandi Lakes’ single ‘Forfeit/Beg’ unveils the architect of emotion he has meticulously constructed. Raised in Southern Japan after being born in Macon, Georgia, Lakes’ music reflects his diverse upbringing. Drawing inspiration from Frank Ocean and Joji, the song delves into the depths of regretful love with haunting simplicity. The artist’s introspective lyrics and soulful delivery resonate deeply, offering listeners an intimate glimpse into the complexities of unrequited affection. With each note, ‘Forfeit/Beg’ showcases Kandi Lakes’ ability to craft a captivating narrative that transcends boundaries, cementing his place as a rising star in the realm of underground hip-hop.
Follow Kandi Lake on Instagram.
The R&B pop sensation Adanna Duru is poised to drop her latest EP, NAPPY HOUR II, featuring the EP release day track ‘The Way’. Following her stint on American Idol and The Voice, this artist has carved her own path to success, captivating audiences with her unique sound and infectious energy. With hit singles like ‘Put it Down’ and ‘if I was a boy ;)’, Adanna showcases her versatility and celebrates her uniqueness across six tracks. With over 35 million streams on her previous EP, Adanna Duru’s upcoming release promises to inspire and uplift listeners with her joyful, genre-blending music.
Follow Adanna Duru on Instagram.
PURPLE MELON 