Lemme PYO: 5 Black Music Artists You Need To Know
Put these rising artists on your playlists ASAP
Courtesy: Pixabay
When was the last time you updated your playlist? I'll wait.
It's been a minute, huh?
If you’re anything like me, you’re a loyal listener to the same 10 artists. But once you've reached the point where your Spotify or Apple Music wrap-up doesn't come as a surprise anymore, it's probably time to discover some new sounds.
To support your music discovery journey, I’ve curated a brief list of small, Black artists who deserve a spot on your playlist. Ranging from rap, R&B, pop, and rock, these picks should get you started diversifying your musical palette.
5 Black Music Artists To Listen To:
Maina Doe
Recommended Song: “Don’t Worry Bout Me”
The discography of Somali-Indonesian artist, Maina Doe, is a pure atmospheric dreamscape with hints of electronic, pop, and R&B music influences. Maina Doe’s instrumental choices seamlessly blend genres, and her voice? Like butter. To sum it up, if you want to feel like you’re running in a field of dandelions, I urge you to check out her music.
2. Q
Recommended Song: “TODAY”
There’s a possibility you've come across this artist before. In case the algorithm hasn’t blessed you yet, I present to you: Q Marsden (aka Q).
Once you hit the play button, it automatically becomes clear whose influences Q’s music draws from. His sound is a sonic retrograde, infusing 70s and 80s pop elements that can only be traced back to Prince or the king of pop himself, Michael Jackson. Looking for new music that still gives you a sense of nostalgia? Simply tap the key next to W in the search bar.
3. Samaria
Recommended Song: “Still Got 4ever”
Who said real R&B was dead? Bay Area artist Samaria is breathing fresh air into the contemporary R&B space with her cleverly passionate songwriting and pulsating beats. The true essence of R&B—love stories that hit the soul—is painted in the image of all her songs. For all the self-proclaimed lover girls, Samaria needs to be in your rotation.
4. Lackvill
Courtesy: Soundcloud
Recommended Song: “Block!”
Lackvill is a small independent artist I found haphazardly, and I’m so glad I did. When I’m listening to him, I either want to vibe out or pull up on my imaginary opps. His energy, reminiscent of the aggro lyrics of Tay K and the energetic flow of Comethazine, makes me believe he can be the next big thing.
5. Paris Texas
Recommended Song: “girls like drugs”
Paris Texas are rap rockstars. As contrasting as the genres are, the duo—co-signed by the likes of Tyler the Creator and Kanye West—masterfully blends hip-hop and rock to demolish listeners’ expectations. This recommendation is for all the alt-girl baddies who aren’t afraid of being in the middle of a mosh pit.
Hopefully, your shuffle gets a little more interesting. If you like these picks, this year’s wrap-up will definitely look different. No more Drake!