Music has always been my way of escape – earbuds in, world out. I listen to music almost all the time: on the way to school, doing schoolwork, or just laying in bed, chilling. As a dancer, music plays a huge role in my life. At some point, I would have to break down songs to its lyrics, and beats.
There are different genres of music. Pop, Electronic, Hip Hop, Rock, the list goes on, though my favourite genre is R&B. There is just something about the rhythm that got me hooked. I believe that there is definitely a significant difference between old school R&B and new school R&B.
From its soulful beats to its meaning and relatable lyrics, R&B music today has definitely made its mark in the music industry, wining the hearts of many. Some R&B artists include Ne-Yo, Brandy, Alicia Keys and more. However, more individuals have come on board. Here are my top 5 favourite R&B artists.
Summer Walker
This talented individual is a singer and songwriter from Atlanta, Georgia. Summer released her first song, Session 32, in April 2018 and soon after, signed with LRVN management in July on the same year.
When I first listened to her songs, I fell in love immediately. Her soothing yet powerful voice got me hooked. The rhythm of the song – I have no words. It is just amazing. She puts so much soul into this song, it was literally on repeat on my phone. It was that good!
Other songs include Playing Games, Body and Come Thru featuring Usher. These are just some of my favourite songs. Words are never enough to describe how much I am in love with her songs. The energy and the emotions put into the song make its so beautiful.
GIVEON
GIVEON (Giveon Dezmann Evans) is an American singer from Long Beach, California. He was also featured in several songs such as Chicago Freestyle alongside Drake and Peaches with Justin Bieber and Daniel Caesar.
GIVEON signed with Epic Records and Canadian record producer Sevn Thomas’s record label, ‘Not So Fast’. In March just last year, GIVEON release his extended play, TAKE TIME with songs such as HEARTBREAK ANNIVERSARY, THE BEACH, LIKE I WANT YOU, and more.
I first came across his song, LIKE I WANT YOU on YouTube and I was speechless. His voice is out of this world. It is deep yet so powerful and soothing. I fell in love almost instantly. I then came across HEARTBREAK ANNIVERSARY on TikTok, I knew straight away that it was going to be one of my favourite songs.
As if that was not enough, he released another album on October 2nd, 2020 and the songs – my heart cannot handle this beauty. His lyrics are relatable, and I live for relatable songs – it is like they are expressing my feelings for me.
Kehlani
Ultimate girl crush! Kehlani Parrish, preferably known as Kehlani, first tasted fame on America’s Got Talent in 2011 when she was with her group, Poplyfe. She left her group after the show and embarked on her solo career.
In 2015, Kehlani finally break through, releasing her mixtape, You Should Be Here, featuring Chance the Rapper and BJ The Chicago Kid. She was also nominated for Best Urban Contemporary for the Grammys.
Shortly after she worked on her third solo project which was released on January 27th, 2017. My favourite album, however, is It Was Worth It Until It Wasn’t which was released on May 8th last year. This album features songs such as Toxic, Bad News, Serial Lover and more. I love the entire album.
Firstly, her voice is so calming. Secondly, the lyrics to her songs are relatable. Thirdly, the rhythm and beats, perfect. I have to say it is an all-rounder! I listened to it when I was actually doing assignments and it was on repeat. It is amazing.
SZA
Many of us may recognise this talented singer due to her song All the Stars that was part of the Marvel movie, Black Panther. Solana Imani Rowe, or SZA was actually the first honorary first lady of Top Dawg Entertainment.
All the Stars became a top hit peaking at number 7 on Billboard. The song was also nominated for several awards. SZA then released her latest album, SZA2, featuring songs like Hit Different with Ty Dolla $ign and Good Days which is one my favourite songs.
Good Days, according to SZA was like her personal mantra. She explained that she lost three friends due to several reasons and 2020 had been a tough year for her. However, she looked at the bright side and knew that good days are coming.
This can be reflected in the lyrics, ‘Still wanna try, still believe in, good days, good days, always.’
I relate so much to these lyrics. There are so many ups and downs and life, and it is up to me to stay positive and understand that good days are coming. Upon hearing these lyrics, this song has a special place in my heart.
Jhene Aiko
Ultimate girl crush number 2 because look at her! Jhene Aiko (Jhene Aiko Efuru Chilombo) started her career when she was only 13. In 2011, she released her debut mixtape, Sailing Soul(s). Her career just got better throughout the years. In 2013, she released her EP, Sail Out and finally released her debut studio album, Souled Out, in 2014.
She released her second studio album, Trip, in 2017 and in March last year, she released her third album, Chilombo, in reference to her last name. Some of my favourite songs are Triggered, Eternal Sunshine and Bed Peace featuring Childish Gambino.
Her songs are on another level of calming. Her voice is so pure and soothing to the ears – could honestly listen to her all day. The thing about her songs is that they can be purely based of what she was feeling that day – which makes it so original and close to her heart. I live!
These R&B artists has definitely impacted my life through their songs. They speak to me and calms me down. Seriously, I could be feeling down that day and all I have to do is listen to their songs and I would feel better. I will definitely look forward to more songs and albums from these R&B artists in time to come so check out their music now!
