Lemme PYO: 8 Black R&B Artists You Should Be Listening To
Courtesy: Instagram/@DestinConrad
In case you don’t know, the best feeling in the world is driving through the city with your car stereo turned all the way up. Speaking from experience, when you’re (safely) speeding down the highway, bass blasting, wind in your hair, playing the right music is essential. So, let me put you on.
Here are eight Black R&B artists that you won't be able to get out of your head (or your playlist):
1. Destin Conrad
Recommended Song: In The Air
If you’re in control of the aux, you can’t go wrong with Destin Conrad. His music sets the perfect vibe—smooth, sexy, and addictive. As a certified lover boy, he croons about love and heartbreak over beats that keep your head nodding. Fair warning, though: his music might have you thinking about your ex, but trust me, you’ll still be begging to listen to more.
2. Kwn
Recommended Song: Eyes Wide Open
Pronounced Kay-one, this British-Jamaican singer is on track to be the next big thing. She’s far from a one-hit wonder—her recent collab with Kehlani on “Worst Behaviour” has given Kwn the traction she deserves. With sensual beats and sexy lyrics, her music might just tempt you into making a few regretful decisions. She brings the swag in both her sound and her signature head twitch (IYKYK).
3. Charity
Recommended Song: Cruel
Most small artists dream of collabing with big names like Snoop Dogg, but Charity has already checked that off her list. Unlike many chasing quick fame, she's a rare gem who sings straight from the heart. And if you love a good piano, Charity delivers. The soulful keys woven through her music complement the heartbreak in her voice, making her music impossible not to hit repeat.
4. Ravyn Lenae
Recommended Song: Skin Tight
Ever wondered what heaven sounds like? Lucky for you, Ravyn Lenae has the answer. This Chicago artist has collaborated with big names like Smino and Steve Lacy, yet still manages to stay low-key. She might not be on the come-up, but it’s time more people knew about her. Her music feels like floating on air, pairing perky, sonically rich instrumentals with lyrics that explore every type of love you can think of.
5. Sampha
Recommended Song: Spirit 2.0
Imagine you’re running through a field of daisies with the sun shining on your face. This is the feeling Sampha’s music gives. He has a delicate tone and a beautiful falsetto, great for anyone who likes a relaxed vibe.
6. Ambré
Recommended Song: the catch up
You’ve probably heard Ambré before on a captivating feature, but it’s time she gets her own attention. With influences of Frank Ocean and Brandy, her lyrics are vulnerable, and her vocals are just as mesmerizing. In her song “Lost,” she sings about the pain of heartbreak: “Heartbroken, time after time. It’s been mind over shatter.”
Sure, it’s a little sad, but everyone needs a good sad song now and then.
7. Josh Levi
Recommended Song: Feel the Bass
It’s been proven that the church breeds successful artists—Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin, and Ari Lennox all started in choir—and Josh Levi is no different. Hailing from Houston, Texas, he draws on his gospel roots to create a fresh, contemporary sound. His soulful voice, much like Charity’s, brings serenity in each lyric. Just a heads-up, though: the song I suggested is a lit one, so it might make you wanna bust a move!
8. Amaarae
Recommended Song: Angels in Tibet
Great artists make fire music, and if you get too close to Amaarae’s flame, you’ll get burnt to a crisp (but trust me, it’s worth it). She blends R&B and afrobeats to create a hypnotizing sound. Her voice, an extremely high falsetto that almost sounds like a whisper, is uniquely hers and matches her sensual superstar presence.
Her most recent album, Fountain Baby, discusses themes of desire and wealth—something we could all use more of. The coolest part of the album is how her messages are supported with her production (literally—you can hear money in the background).
Unless you have superior music taste like me and already knew these artists, don’t tell me I didn’t just put you on. So, go start up the car and turn those speakers up!
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