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.
First up in this week’s Sounds of R&B & Soul collection is BABÉ SILA’s ‘Happiness’, which opens with a dreamy, inviting intro before blossoming into a heartfelt ode. This track is a powerful testimony of feelings, a persuasive letter crafted with the raw honesty for which Sila is known. Hailed as Hungary’s Queen of R&B, this artist effortlessly channels influences like Erykah Badu and Sade, delivering passionate vocals over head-nodding beats. Her unique neo-soul and alt-R&B sound shines through, combining expressive lyricism with a soulful delivery. ‘Happiness’ is more than just a song; it’s an intimate and compelling declaration, showcasing BABÉ SILA’s confident artistic vision and undeniable talent.
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‘Like That’ is a masterclass in balancing strength and vulnerability, delivering a cool, sensual, and emotionally charged experience. OKARO’s track effortlessly glides between R&B, futuristic pop, and late-night club echoes, reminiscent of artists like 070 Shake and Kali Uchis. It perfectly captures the intoxicating pull of a desire that clashes with reality, a whispered secret of a love that burns yet remains magnetic. Produced with Giuliano Cotta, ‘Like That’ embodies OKARO’s self-proclaimed “cyber” genre, which embodies a unique blend of R&B, pop, afrobeats, hip hop, and electronic textures. This single further solidifies her position as a boundary-pushing artist.
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Luvrite’s debut single ‘Naked Minds’ is a moody, introspective alt-R&B track that blends lush harmonies, atmospheric production, and velvet-smooth vocals into a dreamy sonic experience. With the striking line “I’m in love with your naked mind, girl,” Luvrite explores vulnerability and emotional intimacy, showcasing both his vocal range and songwriting depth. The accompanying video, set across stylish urban backdrops, captures the essence of modern romance with cinematic flair. Drawing from his Dutch-Taiwanese roots and London’s rich creative scene, Luvrite offers a deeply personal sound that resonates. ‘Naked Minds’ signals the emergence of a bold new voice in alternative R&B.
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Built on warped guitars, ghostly harmonies, and thunderous basslines, bat zoo’s new track ‘Lemon’ captures the chaos of emotional unraveling with precision and soul. It’s a haunting blend of neo-soul, alternative R&B, and cinematic grit that channels heartbreak into something otherworldly. bat zoo’s voice is the anchor – vulnerable, elastic, and fiercely expressive as he pleads, “don’t make me feel like I don’t need your love.” Crafted solo over a transformative summer, ‘Lemon’ doesn’t chase nostalgia, it reimagines it. This is soul for a new era: raw, futuristic, and emotionally colossal. A bold statement from an artist in full command.
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Brooklyn Kohl’s latest single ‘Heaven’ is a captivating blend of soul, contemporary R&B, and pop, showcasing her ability to weave daily observations into deeply soulful moments. Drawing from her Midwest roots and influences like Motown and gospel, Brooklyn delivers a track that feels both classic and fresh. Her smooth vocals, infused with subtle jazz undertones, create an intimate and reflective atmosphere, inviting listeners into her world. ‘Heaven’ assures Brooklyn Kohl’s artistry as a singer-songwriter who genuinely connects with her audience. As her second single of the year, it’s a promising sign of more compelling music to come from this evolving artist.
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From Lois Levin’s new EP, Motions, ‘Pass You By’ is the breathtaking closer. It’s an emotionally rich tribute to her late mother that cements her as a rising voice in the UK music scene. Blending old-school soul with modern indie-jazz textures, the track captures fleeting moments of love and loss with raw sincerity. Lois’ vocals carry a wisdom beyond her years, weaving personal regret and heartfelt reflection into every note. With honest lyricism and a timeless sound, ‘Pass You By’ doesn’t just tug at the heartstrings, it lingers. It’s a powerful reminder not to take love for granted as life quietly moves on.
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Blending soulful pop with deep social commentary, new single ‘Unjust Things’ draws from both personal and global struggles of songwriter Tanya George. With intricate guitar riffs and funk-driven basslines, the track echoes a powerful call for empathy, expressing frustration over societal injustice. Tanya’s soaring vocals, complemented by her live band’s energy, create a captivating soundscape that resonates with authenticity. As a follow-up to her debut album Contrast, this release showcases her unique blend of heart and soul, offering listeners a profound, introspective experience amidst a disconnected world. ‘Unjust Things’ confirms Tanya George’s place as a trailblazing artist with an important voice.
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Here’s a sun-soaked R&B gem perfect for summer. Produced by frequent collaborator PB, Izabel’s ‘hit & run’ boasts breezy bossa-nova guitars and a laid-back rhythm that instantly evokes warm days. Izabel’s honeyed vocals glide over the instrumentals, delivering a relatable narrative of toxic love – that alluring yet ultimately damaging connection. It’s a clever juxtaposition: the chill, summery vibe of the production contrasted with the messy, complicated emotions in the lyrics. ‘hit & run’ marks Izabel’s move towards a breezier sound, making it a strong contender for your summer playlist.
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Mcxxne’s ‘Show Me Your Love’ is a genre-blending gem that effortlessly combines the silky allure of contemporary R&B with the pulsing groove of amapiano and afro-pop. The result is an emotionally charged yet dancefloor-ready anthem. Lyrically, it’s about raw connection, when the vibe is undeniable and you’re just waiting for that special someone to stop holding back and show how they really feel. Mcxxne’s smooth vocals glide over a vibrant beat, capturing that magnetic spark between two people. It’s seductive, soulful, and irresistibly catchy. This track is pure feel-good energy with a modern, global twist.
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‘Better Than He Can’ is a smooth, R&B offering that exudes confidence. The track establishes Teko Baby as a gentleman who knows he’s the superior choice, a refreshing alternative to a partner’s past disappointments. What elevates this song beyond a typical love anthem is its surprising depth – the second verse courageously addresses the sensitive topic of domestic abuse, offering a powerful message of empowerment and the importance of walking away. Musically, it fits perfectly within the neo-soul and contemporary R&B spectrum, showcasing Teko Baby’s rich vocals and sophisticated production. It’s a compelling listen with a vital message.
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PURPLE MELON 