20 October 2016

Eight female R&B artists who are so hot right now

Need to know.

[R]arely considered to be as cool or culturally relevant as hip-hop in the States or grime in the UK, R&B nonetheless has a legacy that predates both genres and is unarguably more influential in terms of mass appeal. And there are few things as perfect as a pure female R&B voice. So, in light of that, we thought we’d look at the best new and emerging female R&B acts around at the moment – many channelling the influence, naturally, of Mary J. Blige, Erykah Badu and Jill Scott – but all offering a fresh perspective both musically and lyrically and creating, in our opinion, some of the best music around. 

Nao

90s Super Duper Fly for Hunger Magazine ?

A photo posted by Nao (@this_nao) on

2016s breakout star Nao released her HUGE debate album in July and has been bossing the tour circuit ever since. With production duties handled by the likes of Disclosure, A.K Paul and Nao committed to the unique sound she calls “Wonky Funk”, For All We Know is only the beginning.

Jorja Smith

Jorja hasn’t long been in London but has over the course of this year made a huge impact, resulting in a MOBO nomination for best song with ‘Blue Lights’. As an emotionally articulate writer, performer and already director of one of her own videos, she embodies the DIY approach of a younger generation. 

Tink

Focused on the bigger picture

A photo posted by Tink the Great ? (@official__tink) on

Straight off that super productive Chicago production line, Tink just released the 4th part of her Winter’s Diary mixtape series. It’s laid back and should be on your radar.

Ray BLK

@kelelam Thank you for having me ? ? @shootdonnie

A photo posted by Ray blizzy (@rayblk) on

Another artist whose breakout year has resulted in MOBO recognition (for best newcomer) Ray had a huge summer song with ‘My Hood’, featuring a guest spot from Stormzy, that showcased an artist who is at once honest yet soulful and entirely authentic. 

Fatima

I ain't got a license...YET!!! #Wudupdoe #YellowMemoriesTour

A photo posted by F A T I M A (Eglo Records) (@vanillasundaecocoasunset) on

Now London-based by way of Stockholm, Fatima recently signed to legendary jazz label Blue Note and the influence of the the genre is easy to hear in her laid back and soulful style of R&B. A noted collaborator for a few years now, 2017 could be a real break through period for an artist who’s ready to come into her own.  

Ravyn Lenae

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Just 17 years old and hailing from the current musical hotbed of Chicago, Lenae’s debut EP, Moon Shoes, dropped this summer and points towards a young artist willing to experiment whilst paying respect to the recent heritage of the genre. Expect to see her name on big tracks with big artists over the coming year and, hopefully, a long career. 

Joyce Wrice

Where are my friends

A photo posted by Joyce Wrice (@joycewrice) on

Currently based in California, 24-year-old Wrice recently released her debut EP Stay Around after being spotted as 17-year-old uploading covers via YouTube. Her songs are nothing like the sugar coated pop we might expect from such a backstory – Wrice is an R&B artist true working in the tradition of the genre and we can’t wait to hear what comes next.  

Cosima

I may have watched Sissi Die Junge Kaiserin with my Oma too much...

A photo posted by Cosima (@cos1ma) on

Certainly at the poppier end of the R&B spectrum, what can’t be denied is the soulfulness of the Peckham-born singer/songwriter’s voice (reminiscent of Sade and Lizz Wright) and the ease with which she appears to be able to turn out a memorable tune even with only a few tracks yet available to hear. Looking forward to whatever comes next.