Black History is happening all around us, and it might not look like that of our foremothers and forefathers. Today, we’re breaking through ceilings and redefining what it means to be a Black artist. Our sounds are different, our language complex, our messages some might deem taboo, but the most powerful aspect of what makes today’s artists so revolutionary is that they don’t care what anyone has to say. These Sofar artists are examples of the future of music, and your playlist rotation.
WilliE
The sexy, sweet cool girl that’s down to earth. When you listen to WilliE, FKA Tia’ Gold, that’s the vibes you’ll get. Her classic R&B voice gives her a ‘90s nostalgic energy, and her song “SOS” gives you that laid-back, relatable LA twang that is oh-so infectious. Although it’s a track from a while back, the artist has recently announced that she’s dropping a project this March, so keep an eye out, or an ear.
Jameel Mason
We love a Black king, and that’s just what Jameel Mason is. He’s got a mix-up of rap styles, and we know he takes his craft seriously by the amount of freestyle he produces on the regular. What stands out is his latest visuals for a track called “Black Queens.” The video features Black women in an intense, beautiful, uplifting light. If you’re looking for a new face in rap, he’s a good start.
Shanell Alyssa
There’s something about Black women picking up a guitar that screams Lauryn Hill. It’s hard to live up to that status, but dare we say Shanell Alyssa is on the right track. Not only does she play guitar, but Shanell has the gift of piano fingers too. Her latest collaboration, “Witness”, shows off her incredible talent and skill, and we also love her single “Race to Dawn”. Her performance of “Goodness of God” is something that will lift your spirits no matter your faith.
Fab The Duo
Los Angeles is home to some top-notch talent shaking up-the status quo. Fab The Duo happens to be one of the city’s many talents (even though the duo’s initially from NYC). With love and pride at the epicenter of their sound, they prevail, and look damn good while doing it. They give off an Elton John vibe, but their sound reverberates with love and power. You can hear how much they care about their art and each other in the music. If you’re into a folk- meets- pop vibe, this is up your alley. We’re not the only ones to think so either; they’re hailed by Billboard, Huffington Post, and Pride.
Nefertiti Gold
Who doesn’t love a good situationship? Yeah, neither do we, but Nefertiti Gold wrote a whole EP about it, so there’s an artistic bright side. Still early in their musical journey, the artist is baring it all with vulnerable tracks like “Victim” and “Trust Issues.” The most remarkable aspect to the Nefertiti Gold is her production skills. It’s nice to see someone different express the craft in a heavily male-saturated production world– a multi-talented queen.
Yael Santé
Yael Santé is a mix of Sade meets Amy Winehouse with a mysterious je ne sais quoi. Her debut EP titled The Romance EP established her sound. With her latest project, Miles In Between, Santé seems to be perfecting it. Her Neo-Soul groove is one you can ease into your day with no regrets.
R Y É L L E
R Y É L L E refers to herself as a professional feeler, which off the bat informs her soulful sound. Sexy, but still cute, her look and music give us R&B princess– and did we mention she dances too? Her voice sounds like candy; if you want a taste, give her track Love a spin.
Peyton Womock
When you think of saxophone players, we want your first thought to be Peyton Womock. His covers of trendy songs like Lil Nas’ “Call Me By Your Name” will make you want to binge-watch all his videos.
Words by Gyasi Williams-Kirtley
Photo credit: Nefertiti Gold, photo by Quincy Stallworth
