Black Music Artists to Support
I listen to music more than I actually talk to humans on a given day.
Ok, I’m exaggerating. Music is ironically my quiet place. It is how I clear my head, how I get inspired. And when your music tastes are as diverse as mine are- there is no getting bored. I have always been a person who hated sharing my favorite artists with other people until I realized how anxiety-driven it can be when you want to go to a concert and none of your friends know the artist you're talking about.
So, here is to sharing more and manifesting more concerts!
In the winter, I am much more in a groovy/soul/R&B/indie mood, so I have been listening to many genres, but also many artists of color who have voices of velvet and harmonies that kiss the soul.
These are the artists you should look into and support if you want.
These are the artists that have been keeping me warm:
Aaron Taylor: A London-based R&B artist that transcends what we know music can do, with a that sounds like scotch (not that I know what scotch tastes like). Listen to his older album Still Life, and then follow it up with his newest album- A Long Way Home.
Akil Omari: I promise after listening to his album Past Years, and his EP Food Therapy VOL. 1, you’ll have him on repeat for a while. Based in Dallas TX.
AlunaGeorge: UK garage and R&B mixed at its finest. Start off with the song ‘Superior Emotion’, and let the rest come to you.
Ama Lou: Another London artist everyone is calling the next Jorja Smith. ‘Tried Up’ is by far my favorite song from her.
Chloe x Halle: Everyone’s favorite sister singing duo— bringing a fresh taste on Pop and R&B for the younger generation. They bring a whole new meaning to contemporary and they are up for 2 Grammy Noms. I would tell you where to start but honestly…..anywhere is good.
Connie Constance: Indie-soul singer based in London— who at the very least needs to be recognized for her ability to produce headbanging bops.
Eryn Allen Kane: Based in Chicago, she brings a whole new definition to Soul, with vibrancy and emotive energy that doesn’t compare to anyone else. ‘Have Mercy’ is a great song to start with.
Jordan Mackampa: Music with the intent to make you feel and feel deeply, this London-based artist is one on the up and up. Start off with his acoustic pieces or his Physics EP. Either way, you won’t be disappointed. He is quite literally perfect in every way and he always makes my ‘top listened artist’ list!
Joy Oladokun: Oladokun is what happens when soul meets folk meets roots rock. Her voice sounds as though she’s lived 100 years before her time. She just released a new single called ‘Sober’, but her singles ‘No Turning Back’ and ‘Memphis’ are also noteworthy. There’s something about her music that feels like a homecoming.
Kadri Williams: Williams creates music that makes you want to hold the ones you love close. ‘Daydream’ is a song not to miss.
Kelsey Lu: Her music is a road trip must. Her music is clarifying and visionary and really makes me think of the color blue— speaking of ‘Shades of Blue’ and ‘Due West’ are really beautiful “blue” songs.
Kiana Lede: You know her from the Scream T.V show on MTV, but did you know she also contributes to the R&B genre? ‘Ex’ from her Selfless album is a big mood. I’m always interested in what she does next!
Kweku Collins: Indie Rap isn’t ready for him. His music has a huge Chicago influence that is hard to ignore. His EP Say it Here While it’s Safe is a great starting point. What you dive into next is up to you but I swear it will be good.
Mahalia: Another artist from the U.K who uses her angelic vocal cords to speak into your soul. ‘No Reply’ is a song on repeat for me right now.
Mereba: Crossing realms of New Age, Pop, and R&B/Soul, this artist with Ethiopian and Afro-Native American roots is one to keep on your radar. ‘Planet U’ is a personal favorite of mine.
Michael Andrew: If you listen to no other artist on this list, except for this one— I won’t be mad. Start with ‘You’ and then follow it up with ‘Numb’. If you don’t immediately fall in love I’m questioning if you have a heart.
Summer Walker: Atlanta native, on the R&B scene, with a voice that demands your full and undivided attention. Start with ‘Deep’ and then find your own way out. I dare you.
UMI: She is a unique blend of hip-hop, r&b and lo-fi. Anywhere you start you will be in love.
Willow Smith: I had to. I love Jaden’s music, but I feel like not enough people listen to Willow! Her newest single ‘One and Only’ is really good. And she is truly a genre-bender. She can do no wrong. Stream her music!!!
Some disclaimers before I sound off- I know there are many artists I didn’t add- especially mainstream, but I wanted to add artists you might have not heard of. Feel free to continue the list in the comment section!
All of these artists are on Spotify, and if you want more curated playlists fearing black musicians of all genres, check out these playlists (also on Spotify):
Michelle Obama’s Musiaqualogy Vol. 3 1997-2018: This playlist was created by Ahmir Thompson who plays on the Jimmy Fallon Show. He created this playlist for her book tour.
Listen to Black Women: Featuring women in R&B
Happy Listening!
photo belongs to https://unsplash.com/@bekmanis