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 latest Sound of Soul & R&B playlist starts with Lorensa’s ‘Shoot u’, a compelling blend of R&B and pop; a bold anthem of self-confrontation. The track’s raw honesty, like facing a long-avoided reflection, is both daunting and liberating. Warm harmonies and sophisticated arrangements, crafted by Kasey Philips and Teezio, build an emotionally charged atmosphere. Lorensa’s introspective lyrics and rich sonic textures create an immersive experience, balancing softness and intensity. ‘Shoot u’ offers a glimpse into her forthcoming album, The Birth of Lorensa, inspired by Botticelli’s iconic painting, and exploring themes of love and transformation.
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Wrapped in smooth R&B melodies and heartfelt lyricism, Her sultry vocals glide effortlessly over the beat, Ainjo’s ‘Tangerine’ is a soulful reflection on self-worth. Capturing the bittersweet realization of giving your all and still feeling unappreciated. The track exudes both vulnerability and quiet strength, like a queen among bees, knowing her worth despite the chaos. Ainjo’s ability to balance emotion with a polished sound proves why she’s an emerging force in R&B. ‘Tangerine’ is a compelling glimpse into her artistry, blending raw emotion with an undeniable groove. Keep watching as Ainjo is ascending.
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Ornate’s latest single ‘Good Days’ is a shimmering blend of contemporary R&B and lo-fi pop, capturing the feeling of uncertainty while holding onto hope. With dreamy production and heartfelt lyricism, the track reflects on the turbulence of changing seasons, both in the world and within. Ornate’s smooth vocals glide over warm, atmospheric beats, creating an intimate yet uplifting mood. The song’s introspective tone resonates deeply, making it a comforting anthem for anyone navigating transition and looking ahead. ‘Good Days’ proves that vulnerability and optimism can coexist beautifully in music.
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SAUDA’s ‘SIGN ME UP’ delivers a smooth, contemporary R&B groove with a lo-fi pop sensibility. SAUDA (aka Kevin Faye and Anton Axélo) showcase a refined sound, blending their individual talents into a cohesive, inviting track. The production is polished yet intimate, creating a bedroom pop atmosphere. The song’s strength lies in its understated cool, a blend of smooth vocals and subtle, catchy melodies. With Jackson Monroe’s influence, the production feels sharp and modern. ‘SIGN ME UP’ is a promising debut, hinting at a strong collaborative synergy and a unique sonic direction for SAUDA.
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Showcasing Ivana June’s signature silky vocals and heartfelt songwriting, ‘Around’ is a mesmerizing blend of neo-soul, R&B, and Latin influences. The track flows effortlessly, with lush instrumentation and a groove-laden rhythm that transports listeners into Ivana’s world of nostalgia and empowerment. Her soulful delivery, combined with intricate production, creates a rich, immersive soundscape. Drawing from influences like Erykah Badu and The Marias, ‘Around’ feels both timeless and refreshingly modern. With its hypnotic melodies and deeply personal lyricism, this single reaffirms Ivana as a rising force in London’s music scene.
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Stripped down and soulful, Taquirah’s ‘Rush Acoustic’ feels like a heartfelt love letter to patience, reminding listeners that real love doesn’t need to be rushed. It’s a beautifully intimate blend of neo-soul, jazz, and contemporary R&B, wrapped in warm, velvety instrumentation. Taquirah’s smooth, expressive vocals glide effortlessly over jazzy chords, creating a soothing, nostalgic atmosphere. The song’s gentle groove and tender lyricism make it a perfect late-night listen, offering comfort and reassurance. With ‘Rush Acoustic’, Taquirah proves herself as a compelling storyteller, using both music and emotion to craft a timeless, heartfelt piece.
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As the heart of Puma June’s A Woman That They Want EP, ‘Love Comes & Goes’ delves into deeply personal struggles, particularly around women’s health, with haunting honesty. This breathtakingly intimate ballad that captures the raw emotions of loss, resilience, and self-acceptance. Her ethereal vocals glide over a delicate arrangement, creating an atmosphere both fragile and powerful. The accompanying video, celebrating the 100th birthday of activist Nonna Bernita Smith, beautifully reframes the song’s message, turning grief into a testament of enduring worth. ‘Love Comes & Goes’ is a poignant, necessary conversation in musical form.
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Kiki Rowe’s ‘Boys Will Be Boys’ strips R&B down to its rawest form, delivering an intimate, acoustic-driven ballad that highlights her hauntingly beautiful vocals. Produced by Grammy-winner SLMN, the track trades heavy beats for delicate guitar work, allowing Kiki’s voice to take center stage. Lyrically, it’s a poignant reflection on heartbreak and accountability, challenging the age-old excuse embedded in its title. With a perfect balance of vulnerability and quiet strength, Kiki Rowe’s performance is both soul-stirring and effortlessly smooth. ‘Boys Will Be Boys’ proves that sometimes, the most powerful songs are the ones that don’t need much, just pure emotion and authenticity.
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PURPLE MELON 