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.
‘If Pretty Was a Contest’ is a bold and empowering anthem that tackles the pressures of beauty standards in today’s society. Set against a catchy R&B beat, Ainjo’s soulful vocals deliver a deeply personal message of self-worth and defiance against superficial comparisons. The raw honesty in her lyrics cuts through, addressing insecurities and the realization that beauty is far more than skin deep. With its infectious melody and heartfelt delivery, the song becomes a rallying cry for authenticity and self-acceptance, celebrating individuality. Ainjo’s powerful voice and relatable storytelling make this track both moving and uplifting.
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Shamba’s new single is a poignant track that explores the pain of a fading relationship and the hopeful resolution that comes with self-discovery and healing. ‘Johnny’ is the second release from her upcoming EP, Always Be My Maybe, touches on the universal experience of realizing that a once-joyous relationship has turned into a source of heartache. Shamba narrates her personal journey of moving past the pain, choosing instead to embrace the healing power of friendship and the thrill of a night in the city. With meticulous attention to detail, ‘Johnny’ is a testament to Shamba’s versatility as an artist. Known for her smooth vocals and lyrical depth, Shamba is quickly establishing herself as a leading voice in the new generation of R&B, blending genres to create music that resonates on multiple levels.
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Known for his work with ephemerals and GUTS, the talented singer-songwriter Wolfgang Valbrun delivers a powerful performance that showcases his incredible vocal abilities with ‘Denying The Trurth’. This new single is a soulful and heartfelt exploration of unrequited love. The song’s stripped-down arrangement, featuring just Wolf and acoustic guitar, builds to a crescendo with the addition of a full band. Drawing parallels to Aloe Blacc, CeeLo Green, Gnarls Barkley, and Maverick Sabre, ‘Denying The Truth’ is a must-listen for fans of soul and blues music.
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Rachel Rhea’s acoustic version of ‘Cover Me In’ offers a stripped-down, intimate take on the original song. With delicate guitar arrangements and Rhea’s soulful vocals, this version is perfect for fans of acoustic, singer-songwriter, and coffee house music. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and introspective vibe make it a must-add for curators seeking raw authenticity and emotional depth. Based in Amsterdam, this Canadian singer-songwriter is a rising star in the world of pop-soul music. With her formal classical training and natural stage presence, Rachel has captivated audiences with her heartfelt songs and soulful vocals. Inspired by her past experiences, her songwriting explores themes of love, family, and the challenges of living abroad.
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‘Supermodel’ is a vibrant pop track that showcases her powerful vocals and infectious energy from MARZIA. Inspired by Ariana Grande’s ‘Jason’s Song’, the track blends elements of pop, R&B, and soul, creating a catchy and irresistible sound. The incorporation of live instruments adds a fresh and authentic feel to the track, making it a standout release from the talented singer-songwriter. With its upbeat tempo and empowering lyrics, ‘Supermodel’ is a celebration of self-love and confidence. MARZIA’s vocal performance is both impressive and captivating, demonstrating her versatility as an artist. The song’s catchy chorus and infectious melody make it a surefire hit that will get listeners moving.
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Written as a love letter to SEPHRINA’s fiancé, ‘SCORCHED EARTH’ radiates devotion and intensity, capturing the depth of love and the lengths one would go for their partner. The artist’s silky vocals glide effortlessly over a rich, atmospheric production, creating an intimate yet expansive sound. This sultry and heartfelt contemporary R&B and neo-soul song’s heartfelt sentiment and lush instrumentation make it an authentic expression of love, cementing SEPHRINA’s place as a standout in modern R&B. Blending smooth, soulful melodies with powerful, emotionally raw lyrics, it’s real “lover girl” energy in full form.
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Perfect for fall and winter, Kru’s latest single ‘Linen & Coffee’ produced by Cha Cha Malone, is a cozy and sensual blend of pop and R&B. The track exudes warmth and comfort, encapsulating the tender moments in a relationship with smooth, mellow vocals and a laid-back yet rich production. Kru’s voice shines, effortlessly conveying intimacy and affection. Cha Cha Malone’s sleek, polished production complements the artist’s heartfelt delivery, creating a soundscape that’s both relaxing and emotionally resonant. Following their previous success with ‘Masterplan’, this collaboration further showcases Kru’s unique fusion of Bay Area and K-pop influences.
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With its lush production and soothing vocals, Ben Nakhaima’s ‘Honeymoon Lounge’ takes listeners on an emotional journey, reflecting the highs and lows of romance. The arists’s sultry delivery and introspective lyrics evoke both blissful memories and heartbreak, perfectly aligning with the theme of his debut EP, The Duality of Love. It’s a smooth, atmospheric contemporary R&B track with a soulful touch that captures the complexities of love and longing. Overall, it creates an intimate yet captivating soundscape that resonates deeply, exploring the confusing, fleeting nature of love with authenticity and emotional depth.
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Gray Hawken’s debut single ‘Anything’ is a poignant exploration of love’s complexities. The song, produced in collaboration with a talented team, delves into the bittersweet nature of relationships, acknowledging both the joys and pains that come with them. The narrator’s willingness to choose love again, even in the face of heartache, highlights the enduring power of human connection. Through evocative lyrics and a captivating melody, ‘Anything’ celebrates the beauty and resilience of love, reminding us that even the most challenging experiences can contribute to a deeper understanding of this powerful emotion.
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‘Bow’ is a captivating blend of retro soul, neo-soul, and contemporary R&B from rising artist TatiKa. The song’s infectious melody and the artist’s soulful vocals create a captivating atmosphere that draws listeners in. The lyrics, inspired by personal experiences, explore the complexities of love and the bittersweet emotions that come with it. With its nostalgic sound and heartfelt message, ‘Bow’ is a must-listen for fans of soul and R&B.
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PURPLE MELON 