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.
With shimmering grooves and Marvin Gaye-inspired warmth, the Montreal-based artist JayWood offers a powerful exploration of identity, ego, and emotional growth. ‘SUN BABY’ is a radiant fusion of funk, neo-psychedelia, and soul-searching vulnerability. JayWood’s layered production and introspective lyricism reflect a deep personal journey, balancing boldness with introspection and a quest for inner peace. The track’s sunny exterior belies a thoughtful inner tension, culminating in a cathartic breakdown that dissolves ego in favor of authenticity. As a preview of Leo Negro, ‘SUN BABY’ is both an artistic milestone and a soulful, feel-good gem that invites listeners to shine and reflect.
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‘Cider and Black’ is Charlotte OC at her most unapologetic and emotionally exposed. This is a fierce, intoxicating anthem of self-destruction cloaked in swagger. With gritty vocals and brooding production, the track captures the chaos of spiraling out while pretending to revel in it. Beneath the bravado, though, lies unmistakable heartbreak and deep emotional wounds. It’s a song that wears pain like armor, raw and beautifully flawed. As part of her Seriously Love, Go Home EP, ‘Cider and Black’ cements Charlotte OC’s creative rebirth. Bold, fearless, and deeply human. It’s the soundtrack to those nights you don’t want to remember, but never forget.
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Gavrielle’s latest single ‘coming back’ is a captivating sound experience that defies typical pop structures. Starting with her signature ukulele, backyard birds, and gentle vocals, the track gracefully evolves into a sensual, cinematic journey. Inspired by Michael Jackson’s fifth album Off The Wall, this five-minute piece incorporates a vibrant horn section, a vocal round, and a classic Quincy Jones-style fade out. ‘coming back’ is a masterclass in intricate textures and tantalizing beat progressions, showcasing Gavrielle’s prowess as a solo-written, produced, and performed artist. It’s a sultry, extended ride that promises to be a dance anthem, further solidifying her unique, homegrown sound.
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Opening with a stark declaration of innocence, GRAMN.’s ‘Problems’ is a searing, soul-soaked anthem that tackles the dark realities of gaslighting with fearless vulnerability and gospel-infused power. The track draws listeners into an emotional battleground, where manipulation is laid bare through haunting spoken-word and visceral lyricism. Channeling the raw candor of Alanis Morissette and the cinematic drama of Florence Welch, GRAMN. delivers a performance that’s both intensely personal and universally resonant. The soaring chorus, “don’t put clouds in my eyes,” lands like a battle cry that’s defiant, liberating, unforgettable.
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Guernsey-born, Birmingham-based singer-songwriter Eloise Fabbri delivers a soulful R&B and jazz fusion with her single ‘Runnin’ away’. The track masterfully explores the struggle of returning to something or someone you know is detrimental, a universally relatable theme. Eloise’s soulful vocal acrobatics, reminiscent of Aretha Franklin and Amy Winehouse, are beautifully complemented by raw, stripped-back piano. A highlight is Dave Sear’s tasty trombone solo around the 2:50 mark, adding a rich jazz dimension. ‘Runnin’ away’ showcases Eloise Fabbri’s eclectic influences and her desire for music to explode both musically and lyrically, solidifying her unique blend of neo-soul, contemporary R&B, and jazz fusion.
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Luminiah’s latest single ‘chapter III: love alchemy‘ is a sultry, genre-blending invocation of emotional depth and spiritual self-awareness. Rooted in neo-soul and alternative R&B with hints of Arabic and electronic soul, the track floats on ethereal melodies and smoky harmonies, while delivering quiet fire beneath. Built from a freestyle, it feels both spontaneous and intentional. It’s a slow-burning blend of mysticism and sensuality. Luminiah’s vocals are soft but commanding, offering soulful insight and vulnerability. It’s a confident debut that doesn’t just sound good, it holds space, inviting listeners to transform, reflect, and feel deeply. A spellbinding chapter.
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What begins as a brooding, introspective track with sparse production and raw emotion subtly transforms into a sophisticated emotional pick-up line. Monro’s ‘Lonely’ masterfully blends vulnerability with a yearning for connection. The tension isn’t in mourning loss, but in the tantalizing pursuit of something just out of reach. With hazy, layered production reminiscent of James Blake and Zayn, ‘Lonely’ creates a cinematic backdrop for its theme. It showcases Monro’s distinctive blend of genre-defying artistry, a testament to his seasoned experience behind the scenes now channeled into his deeply personal, yet universally relatable, solo journey.
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Anchored by a thick, infectious bass groove and silky vocals, ‘Coffee’ evokes the golden-era vibes of artists like Lucky Daye and Anderson .Paak while keeping things fresh and modern. Andrew De Silva’s smooth, feel-good blend of funk, soul, and analogue warmth that’s as comforting as its namesake. It’s the perfect backdrop for lazy mornings, intimate moments, or just vibing out. Andrew’s decades-long experience shines through in every polished layer, combining live musicianship with rich production. ‘Coffee’ is a soulful brew of groove and heart; it’s timeless, chill, and irresistibly replayable. A mellow must-add to any neo-soul playlist.
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Trip Carter’s new self-produced single ‘Ropes’ is a sultry, hypnotic blend of alt-R&B and hip-hop, oozing late-night regret and irresistible temptation. Written and recorded from Sabrina Claudio’s tour bus during the Into The Wild tour, ‘Ropes’ captures the chaos of being caught up with someone you shouldn’t text back—equal parts groove and guilt. Trip’s jazz-trained roots and soulful basslines anchor the track, while his smooth vocals and introspective lyrics float above. It’s a messy, moody, and magnetic first taste of his BASSMAN EP, and a bold step out of the shadows for the Southern California native chasing stardom on his own terms.
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Amsterdam-founded European music collective SAMAH emerges with a smooth blend of genres with their single ‘Monday Morning’. Conceived by visual artist Johannes Holt Iversen, the collective features a rotating cast of collaborators, creating a unique sound that weaves together neo-soul, contemporary R&B, and downtempo production. ‘Monday Morning’ showcases SAMAH’s distinctive fusion, incorporating elements of soultronica, nu-disco, French house, robo funk, and indie pop. The track conveys their innovative approach, offering a fresh and captivating auditory experience. It’s a perfect introduction to SAMAH’s diverse and evolving musical landscape, promising a rich journey for listeners.
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PURPLE MELON 