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.
Avara, the Indian-American R&B-soul artist and producer, showcases her unique blend of influences in her latest single ‘Duck & Roll’. With nods from across the blogosphere, Avara brings together her Indian classical vocal training with Western choral music, creating a sonic tapestry that reflects her identity and experiences. The song’s lush production and poignant storytelling delve into themes of complacency and inevitable endings in relationships, drawing clever parallels to childhood fire drills. With her smooth vocals and infectious beats, Avara sets the stage for her upcoming debut EP, promising a soulful exploration of meditation, mental health, and love.
Follow Avara on Instagram.
Victor Ray’s latest single ‘Halfway There’, follows the success of his hit ‘Comfortable’ and marks another milestone in his burgeoning career. With a sold-out London headline show and millions of followers across social media platforms, the artist is rapidly ascending to stardom. This single showcases his R&B influence, with an irresistible groove and Victor’s smooth vocals effortlessly gliding over the music. The lyrics capture the exhilaration of meeting a crush for the first time, resonating with listeners on a personal level. Set to be featured on his upcoming EP, Victor Ray continues to captivate audiences with his soulful sound and relatable storytelling.
Follow Victor Ray on Instagram.
Acclaimed Tony, Emmy, and Grammy-nominated artist N’Kenge unveils her latest single ‘Goosebump Moment’, showcasing her global appeal and remarkable versatility. Produced by a top-tier team, including Chris Willis and Andre Danek, and co-written with six-time BMI Award winner Preston Glass and others, the song reflects this artist’s journey as an international performer. With verses in German, French, Spanish, and Romanian, N’Kenge celebrates her diverse experiences and cultural immersion. Inspired by Oprah Winfrey’s notion of a “goosebump moment,” the song captures the excitement of her musical odyssey and the joy of finding true love amidst a whirlwind of admirers.
Follow N’Kenge on Instagram.
Ice Meez’s latest single ‘My Moment’ is a motivational anthem encouraging listeners to seize their opportunities for success. With every lyric penned by Ice Meez himself, the track resonates with passion and determination. Renowned platinum producer Kato On The Track crafts a dynamic beat, while Trill Lee adds depth to the composition. Together, they create a synergy of talent, resulting in a masterpiece that empowers listeners to embrace their defining moments. The northern California-based hip-hop artist with a decade of experience, brings authenticity and inspiration to his music, garnering a devoted fanbase and recognition in film and commercials.
Follow Ice Meez on Instagram.
In their collaboration ‘Dumpalltheguns’, Adi Oasis and Danielle Ponder deliver a poignant message on peace and gun control. Released on International Women’s Day, the track resonates with a timely call for social change, reflecting her commitment to advocacy. With over 30 million streams globally, this powerful anthem showcases Danielle’s soulful vocals, reminiscent of Nina Simone’s passion. Adi’s fusion of funk, R&B, and soul creates a compelling backdrop, amplifying the song’s impact. Together, they ignite a conversation on meaningful action, making ‘Dumpalltheguns’ a rallying cry for a world in need of harmony and understanding.
Follow Adi Oasis on Instagram.
Follow Danielle Ponder on Instagram.
‘Crush’, released on Chicago’s 312 Day, marks a significant step in Jason Ivy’s musical journey. Following the success of ‘Divided’, this track showcases Jason’s evolution as an artist. With soaring falsettos reminiscent of Sadé and live saxophone blending seamlessly with psychedelic rock elements, ‘Crush’ pushes the boundaries of alt-R&B into neo soul territory. Backed by production from RIAA Platinum Producer Buddafly Wolf, Jason Ivy’s emotive vocals deliver a relatable narrative, further enhanced by a striking animated music video. With features boasting millions of Spotify monthly listeners, ‘Crush’ is poised to captivate audiences worldwide, continuing Ivy’s ascent in the music scene.
Follow Jason Ivy on Instagram.
‘Blue Lights’ is a soulful pop anthem that delves into the urge to escape through screens when life feels overwhelming. Collaborating with platinum producer Rasmus Gregersen, eif crafts a moody and introspective track that urges listeners to stop and look within. With influences from modern pop artists like Robyn and Sigrid, ‘Blue Lights’ blends catchy melodies with soulful vocals, delivering a timely reminder of the importance of human connection in a world marked by increasing loneliness and declining mental health. Through emotive lyricism and captivating production, eif invites listeners to confront their struggles and seek solace in shared experiences.
Follow Eif on Instagram.
Hope Vista’s single ‘Worst For You’ takes listeners on a journey through hauntingly nostalgic R&B-tinged pop. Delving into the depths of her psyche, it explores the lingering guilt from a college love affair gone awry. Fueled by Diet Dr. Pepper and introspection, her music transcends boundaries, blending elements of sad pop and experimental alt to create a hypnotic sonic experience. With each autobiographical song, including the captivating ‘Worst For You’, the artist seamlessly merges vulnerability with empowerment, solidifying her status as a pioneer of phantom pop. Through her hauntingly introspective lyrics and captivating production, she leaves an indelible mark on the pop landscape.
Follow Hope Vista on Instagram.
‘You, Me and Music’ is a soulful journey through love and emotion from O-Naje. With smooth R&B vibes and heartfelt lyrics, the song creates an intimate and warm atmosphere. Soulful vocals blend effortlessly with the melodic instrumentation, evoking a sense of introspection and upliftment. Each verse invites listeners to explore their emotions while finding solace in the power of music. From Oakland to Detroit, O-Naje’s journey of empowerment and self-discovery resonates through his music, leaving a lasting impression on listeners. ‘You, Me and Music’ is a mesmerizing blend of soulful melodies and heartfelt storytelling, promising to captivate all who listen.
Follow O-NAJE on Instagram.
‘Dying On The Vine’ encapsulates the poignant journey through heartbreak, where shattered dreams and tender wounds intertwine. Yet, amidst the wreckage, there’s a resilience that emerges, like a fragile bloom in the rubble. Through the haunting melody and emotive lyrics, Cam Edmonds paints a portrait of finding beauty in the midst of despair, forging new beginnings from the ashes of the past. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest of nights, there are echoes of hope waiting to be heard, offering solace to those navigating the labyrinth of heartbreak. In essence, the song becomes a beacon of light in the darkness.
Follow Cam Edmonds on Instagram.
PURPLE MELON 