Leon Bridges – His latest single “Sweeter” is a grand statement. Buttery smooth vocals guide this track as Bridges narrates the racial injustices Black people face today. The chorus details his heavy heart, “Hoping for a life more sweeter/ Instead I’m just a story repeating/ Why do I fear with skin dark as night?/ Can’t feel peace with those judging eyes.”
Bridges has always been one of my favorite new artists for the past couple of years. Listen to “River”, “Beyond”, and “Coming Home” and I guarantee you’ll feel his warmth in a matter of seconds.
Victoria Monét – You might know her as an elite member of Ariana Grande’s cute friend squad, but Monét is making a name for herself in the pop/r&b genre. Her voice is gentle, sweet, and sultry. Recent singles “Ass Like That”, “Dive”, and “Experience” are superb in their production style and sound. Check her out:
Amber Mark – Mark’s voice is one of my favorites in the industry today. She first caught my attention with her 2017 album 3:33am. “Monsoon” spoke volumes to me, and the way her voice sounded so natural and strong kept me yearning for more of her music. Since then, Mark has released other incredible singles like “Generous”, “My People”, and “Love Is Stronger Than Pride”.
John Legend – His latest album, Bigger Love is one of his best releases to date. It keeps Legends usual crooner-esque voice but shifts to a new-age sound that feels light and happy. “Ooh Laa” is fun and sexy, while “U Move, I Move” is a sweet duet with R&B princess Jhené Aiko. Lead single, “Conversations in the Dark” is a gorgeous piano-led love song that will tug right at the soul strings.
H.E.R. – I can’t say enough good things about H.E.R.. I’ve been captivated by her for so long I can’t imagine not having her songs when I need them. “Hard Place” is one of the greatest songs of all time, and I’ll stand by that forever. Her artistry is so evident in every single song she releases. Not only is she an incredibly gifted singer but musician as well. “Best Part”, “Changes”, “Hopes Up”, and “I’m Not OK” are all some of my favorites but honestly I can’t skip one song when I’m listening to H.E.R..
Her latest single, “I Can’t Breathe” details the Black Lives Matter movement and what our current world state is like:
Chloe x Halle – These two have captivated my heart and soul with their latest album, Ungodly Hour. The voices, the beats, the lyrics, everything about this album is a VIBE. Chloe and Halle are going to be in this industry for a lifetime with the amount of talent they have. Originally known for singing flawless covers of pop songs, these sisters sprouted into two mature singing angels. Listen to “Ungodly Hour”, “Don’t Make It Harder On Me”, and “Do It”.
Beyoncé – Need I say more? A legend with a discography that is nothing short of iconic. Stream her latest single “BLACK PARADE” released on Juneteenth. Yoncé sings about her heritage, hometown, and returning to her African roots. One word: POWER.
Lizzo – It’s no secret Lizzo has been dominating the music scene for the last year. With self love & acceptance at the core of who she is, I can’t help but feel so in love with the artist she’s become. Her 2019 album Cuz I Love You is an absolute masterpiece from start to finish. Revel in her vocals on “Cuz I Love You” then shake your ass to “Soulmate” and “Tempo”. And don’t forget about 2016’s “Truth Hurts” and “Good As Hell”.
Kendrick Lamar – Kendrick Lamar doesn’t make music like other rappers do. His lyrics are poetic and intricate, some even feel like puzzles or brain games. Lamar’s 2015 album To Pimp A Butterfly and 2017’s DAMN feel even more relevant today than they did back then; a sad yet true reality. Listen to “Alright”, “i”, “DNA.” and “m.A.A.d city”. No one does it like Kendrick and no one ever will.
SZA – Her flawless 2017 album titled, Ctrl melted my brain into a pile of feelings. From the lovely “Love Galore” to the self reflective “Supermodel”, SZA spills her feelings without any inhibitions. Spoiler alert: she sounds this good live too. I’ll be playing this album till I’m 80.
To support the Black Lives Matter movement, read through this article that details where you can donate: https://nymag.com/strategist/article/where-to-donate-for-black-lives-matter.html . Whether it be bail funds, victim memorial funds, or policy reform organizations, every signature or dollar counts towards making this world a better place. Please do your part.
Music blogger 