by Jonathan P-Wright | May 23, 2025 | Latest, Music News |
Image credit: Tinseltown / Shutterstock.com
Beyoncé marked the highly anticipated launch of her Cowboy Carter Tour with a grand spectacle at Los Angeles’s SoFi Stadium. The nearly three-hour-long show was a dynamic fusion of country music traditions, pop, R&B, and the vibrant aesthetics of ballroom culture. But beyond just entertainment, it was a profound celebration of Black creativity and an unflinching statement about identity, artistic ownership, and cultural legacy in America.
From the very outset, the evening made it clear that this wasn’t just another concert—it was a powerful act of reclamation. Boldly illuminated on the stadium’s massive screens were the words: “Never ask permission for something that already belongs to you.” This phrase resonated throughout the performance as a defiant assertion that Beyoncé, and the cultural heritage she represents, cannot be boxed in or denied rightful space.
Opening the Show: A Reverent and Revolutionary Introduction
Beyoncé began the evening with “AMERIICAN REQUIEM,” a track from her recent projects that confronts the complicated realities of American patriotism filtered through the Black experience. The somber, atmospheric song set a contemplative tone, leading seamlessly into a stirring rendition of The Beatles’ “Blackbird,” a classic symbol of struggle and hope during the Civil Rights era.
But Beyoncé’s tribute didn’t stop there. She followed “Blackbird” with a Jimi Hendrix-inspired version of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” reimagining the national anthem in a way that layered reverence with critical commentary. While Hendrix’s legendary 1969 Woodstock performance used the anthem to protest the Vietnam War and highlight racial injustice, Beyoncé’s take echoed this tradition of resistance and renewal.
As the anthem played, the stage visuals paid homage to Black trailblazers in country music history, a genre often viewed through a narrow lens as predominantly white. Images of Linda Martell—the first Black woman to sing at the Grand Ole Opry—and other overlooked pioneers filled the backdrop. With sincerity, Beyoncé addressed the audience: “I want to thank all of those who came before me. Thank you for giving me the creative liberty to challenge myself.” Her gratitude was also a subtle demand for recognition of the Black roots that run deep within country music’s history.
Clad in an all-white leather Mugler ensemble and a classic cowboy hat, Beyoncé embodied both a modern icon and a nod to country’s storied past. Her presence was a reminder that she is not just an artist dabbling in a genre but one with a profound connection to its heritage, and the creative prowess to expand its horizons.
Country Music Reclaimed and Revolutionized
The Cowboy Carter Tour is not a simple fusion; it’s a purposeful excavation and reinvention. Country music, often stereotyped as the domain of rural white Americans, actually owes much of its origin to Black musicians, who infused it with blues, gospel, and storytelling traditions. Yet, Black voices have historically been marginalized or erased from country’s mainstream narrative.
Beyoncé’s tour actively challenges this erasure. By merging traditional country sounds—twanging guitars, fiddles, and steady rhythms—with her signature blend of pop and R&B vocals, she dismantles preconceived notions. The aesthetic touches, like cowboy hats and boots, are not costumes but symbols of heritage, worn with pride and layered with contemporary flair.
This deliberate melding of styles invites the audience to reconsider what country music can be. It’s a statement that genres are fluid and that cultural ownership is complex and intertwined.
Family Ties: The Heart of the Show
Family is a cornerstone of Beyoncé’s public persona, and the Cowboy Carter Tour showcased this beautifully. Throughout the night, her eldest daughter Blue Ivy appeared onstage, moving fluidly with the backup dancers during energetic numbers such as “YA YA,” “SWEET ★ HONEY ★ BUCKIIN’,” and the politically charged “AMERICA HAS A PROBLEM.”
Blue Ivy’s presence was more than a cute addition—it symbolized generational continuity, the passing of a creative torch, and the nurturing of a legacy that goes beyond music. Dressed in outfits that mirrored the show’s Western theme, Blue’s confident stage presence signaled that she is carving her own artistic path while honoring her roots.
Another rare and emotionally charged moment came during “PROTECTOR,” when Beyoncé’s youngest daughter, Rumi, made a brief appearance. Waving to the crowd with a bright smile, Rumi’s presence softened the intensity of the concert and reminded fans of the deeply personal motivations behind much of Beyoncé’s work.
Further tying the past to the present, Beyoncé performed a solo rendition of “Deja Vu” that revived choreography from her B’Day era, creating a beautiful bridge between her past artistic phases and her current creative vision.
Echoes of the Renaissance and Ballroom Elegance
Although the Cowboy Carter Tour focuses on country influences, Beyoncé’s signature RENAISSANCE era sound and aesthetic also surfaced prominently. The show’s fluidity between genres was one of its defining features.
One highlight was her performance of “TYRANT” atop a mechanical bull, a visually striking and metaphorically rich moment. The bull, a classic symbol of country and rodeo culture, was transformed into a stage prop that underscored Beyoncé’s control and dominance over the genre she was claiming.
From there, the concert transitioned into a ballroom-inspired segment featuring songs like “I’M THAT GIRL,” “COZY,” and “ALIEN SUPERSTAR.” These performances were a celebration of Black queer culture, ballroom voguing, and self-expression, showcasing Beyoncé’s commitment to amplifying marginalized voices within her artistry.
During “YA YA,” Beyoncé was seated on a throne while a robotic arm poured her whiskey—a futuristic yet Southern tableau that juxtaposed tradition with innovation, heritage with progress.
Visuals as Political and Cultural Commentary
Beyoncé has always been masterful at embedding powerful messages within her visual presentations, and the Cowboy Carter Tour was no exception. Throughout the show, visuals reinforced themes of resistance, empowerment, and reclaiming what rightfully belongs to Black artists and communities.
One of the most striking scenes depicted Beyoncé in a tense gun duel against an older white cowboy figure. Bullets bounced harmlessly off her body, a metaphor that spoke volumes. It referenced her experience being snubbed by Nashville’s predominantly white country music establishment and the broader struggle for Black artists to gain recognition and respect in genres dominated by white narratives.
Later, in a showstopping moment, Beyoncé flew above the crowd on a glowing pink neon horseshoe during “DADDY LESSONS.” This song has long been understood as a tribute to her father and a reflection on lessons of love, loyalty, and strength drawn from her Texas upbringing. Her aerial performance was both literal and symbolic—lifting Black country music to new heights.
Following that, she transitioned to a flying convertible decked out with an American flag as she performed “16 CARRIAGES,” a song layered with themes of burden, femininity, and resilience. These high-flying visuals encapsulated the show’s dual messages of celebration and defiance.
A Setlist Full of Surprises and Homages
The musical journey Beyoncé took her audience on was carefully curated to blend nostalgia, innovation, and cultural significance. She wove snippets of Destiny’s Child hits like “Bills, Bills, Bills” into newer material such as “THIQUE,” creating a multi-generational experience.
One viral moment was her refreshed performance of “Diva,” which had garnered attention online prior to the tour. It served as a testament to her ability to keep reinventing herself and staying culturally relevant.
Another notable highlight was her take on Dolly Parton’s “JOLENE.” Rather than a straightforward cover, Beyoncé infused the classic with her own signature flair and a beat inspired by New Orleans bounce music—a genre deeply connected to Black musical innovation. This reimagining honored Dolly’s influence while asserting Beyoncé’s ownership and reinterpretation of the narrative.
The concert reached a climactic crescendo with a remixed version of “TEXAS HOLD ‘EM,” which then transitioned smoothly into the iconic “Crazy in Love.” Although fans were eager for a guest appearance from JAY-Z, who famously duets on the latter, he did not join Beyoncé on stage. Still, her solo performance was magnetic enough to command the crowd’s undivided attention.
The Cultural Impact and Future Stops
The Cowboy Carter Tour is much more than a high-profile tour—it’s a cultural milestone. Beyoncé is not simply showcasing her talents but is actively challenging the cultural gatekeepers and re-centering Black voices in spaces where they have been historically marginalized.
Her choice to spotlight Black country pioneers, blend genres, and bring her family into the spotlight is a multi-layered strategy that advances discussions about identity, inclusion, and creative freedom.
The tour will continue with additional shows in Los Angeles before making stops in Chicago, New Jersey, London, Paris, Houston, Washington D.C., Atlanta, and concluding in Las Vegas in July. Given the groundbreaking nature of the opening night, audiences worldwide can expect a tour filled with spectacle, meaning, and unapologetic Black excellence.
by Kareshia Prioleau | Apr 7, 2025 | Business News |
Photo by Element5 Digital on Unsplash
Beyoncé is taking the beauty industry by storm with her new haircare line, Cécred, which has officially launched at Ulta Beauty. The celebrated singer, entrepreneur, and fashion icon has teamed up with her mother, Tina Knowles, to create a brand that aims to transform how people care for their hair. From high-performance products to exclusive in-store experiences, Cécred promises to deliver something for everyone. With the support of Ulta Beauty, this new line is set to bring a touch of luxury and care to the haircare market.
Cécred: A Dream Come True for Textured Hair
Cécred is not just another celebrity beauty brand—it’s a carefully crafted line designed with one goal in mind: to provide high-quality products that work for textured hair. Co-founded by Beyoncé and Tina Knowles, the brand was born out of their desire to address the challenges that people with curly, kinky, and coily hair face daily. They wanted to create products that not only cater to these unique needs but also offer a luxurious, self-care experience.
Both Beyoncé and Tina Knowles have long been recognized for their impeccable sense of style and beauty, and Cécred reflects this passion. By combining their expertise in beauty with cutting-edge haircare science, the duo has created a line that delivers results without compromising on luxury.
Exclusive Launch at Ulta Beauty
Ulta Beauty’s partnership with Cécred is a significant moment for both the brand and the beauty retailer. Now available in stores nationwide and online, Cécred’s product range includes shampoos, conditioners, oils, and styling treatments—each designed to hydrate, nourish, and repair. Whether you’re looking to replenish your hair’s moisture or restore its natural shine, Cécred has a solution for you.
One standout feature of Cécred is the Temple Oud fragrance, which infuses each product with rich, warm notes of oud, sandalwood, and jasmine. It’s this attention to detail that sets Cécred apart, turning an ordinary haircare routine into a pampering, spa-like experience.
Inside Cécred’s Foundation Collection
Cécred’s Foundation Collection is a carefully curated set of products designed to nurture and care for all types of textured hair. The range includes shampoos, conditioners, and oils, all formulated with bioactive ingredients that support hair health and strength. Each product is dermatologist-tested, free from harsh chemicals like sulfates and parabens, and aims to provide deep hydration while also boosting hair growth and reducing breakage.
Some of the highlights of the collection include the Nourishing Hair Oil, which is packed with moisturizing ingredients to enhance hair’s natural shine, and the Protein Bounceback Treatment, a deep-conditioning treatment that strengthens hair and prevents damage. With their gentle yet effective formulas, these products are sure to become essentials in any haircare routine.
Cécred at Ulta: The In-Salon Experience
While purchasing Cécred products at Ulta Beauty is a convenient way to experience the brand, there’s more to the Cécred experience than just shopping. Ulta Beauty is offering exclusive in-salon treatments at select locations, where customers can enjoy customized services such as the Scalp Revival Treatment or Moisture Sealing Ritual. These services are designed to complement the products and provide a more personalized, indulgent experience.
For anyone looking to truly immerse themselves in the world of Cécred, these in-salon treatments offer a unique opportunity to take your haircare to the next level. Whether you’re in need of a nourishing scalp treatment or want to restore your hair’s strength, the professional services will help you get the most out of the products.
Promotions and Offers to Celebrate the Launch
To celebrate the launch of Cécred at Ulta Beauty, the brand is offering some exciting limited-time promotions. Shoppers who purchase products will receive a free cosmetic bag, perfect for storing your new haircare essentials. This offer is available while supplies last, so be sure to grab your products soon.
In addition to the free gift with purchase, Ulta Beauty is hosting Cécred Sundays, a weekly event where customers can experience the brand’s products and services in an exclusive setting. Select Ulta locations will offer special haircare treatments, giving you the opportunity to experience Cécred’s high-performance products in a luxurious salon atmosphere.
What People Are Saying About Cécred
So far, the reviews of Cécred have been incredibly positive. Beauty enthusiasts are praising the brand’s luxurious formulations and effective results. One reviewer shared that the Nourishing Shampoo left their hair feeling hydrated and refreshed, while another noted how the products worked wonders in restoring their hair’s natural shine. The Temple Oud fragrance has also received rave reviews, with many describing it as a sophisticated and calming scent that lingers long after you’ve finished your haircare routine.
It’s clear that Cécred is making waves in the beauty world, not just because of its association with Beyoncé, but because of the real results it delivers for textured hair. Whether you have curly, coily, or kinky hair, Cécred is a brand that promises to provide the care and nourishment your hair deserves.
Looking to the Future: What’s Next for Cécred?
With its initial success at Ulta Beauty, Cécred is poised for continued growth and innovation. Beyoncé and Tina Knowles are determined to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the beauty industry, and fans can expect more products and services in the future. While the brand has already made a significant impact with its haircare line, the future may hold even more exciting developments, including new treatments, accessories, and potentially even wellness products designed to complement the line.
For now, Cécred continues to be a symbol of self-care and luxury. With high-quality products and a focus on inclusivity and performance, it’s clear that Beyoncé and Tina Knowles’ vision for haircare has come to life in a big way.
Conclusion: Beyoncé and Tina Knowles Create a Haircare Revolution
Beyoncé and Tina Knowles’ collaboration has led to the creation of Cécred, a haircare line that is not only luxurious but also delivers real results for textured hair. Available now at Ulta Beauty, the line offers high-performance products that hydrate, nourish, and strengthen hair. With exclusive promotions and in-salon treatments, Cécred is providing an elevated haircare experience for all hair types. Whether you’re looking to revitalize your curls or indulge in a spa-like treatment, Cécred has something for everyone.
by Fabiola Noel | Sep 20, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Image credit: Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock.com
Beyoncé, the globally revered music sensation, has once again captured the hearts of her fans, and this time, of a fellow artist too. The Renaissance singer recently sent a bouquet of white flowers to Coi Leray, an emerging rapper in the music industry, expressing her admiration for the latter’s talent.
The Unexpected Gift
In a social media post, Coi Leray shared the surprise delivered by the queen of pop herself, Beyoncé. A bouquet of white flowers and a touching note, in which Beyoncé expressed her admiration for Leray’s talent, were the contents of the gift.
“I’m a fan of yours and I love watching you grow. You’re a very talented young lady. Love, Beyoncé,” read the note.
The note was received with pure excitement and gratitude by Leray, who expressed her feelings in her Instagram post.
“The queen has spoken .. Thank you for inspiring all of us not only with music but just how you carry yourself with such grace,” wrote Leray, followed by a string of heart and sparkle emojis.
The Intersection of Two Music Careers
The heartfelt gesture from Beyoncé comes at a time when Coi Leray had crossed paths with the pop icon during a performance with DJ Khaled. Leray had the opportunity to open the Renaissance World Tour in L.A.
“Coi Leray and DJ Khaled opening up for Beyoncé’s Renaissance show in LA with a performance of “Players”,” reported Buzzing Pop.
However, the bouquet and note from Beyoncé served as a ray of sunshine for Leray amidst the shadows of a recent award show snub.
“Shout out BET for my nominations!! They played fair and I love that. VMAS tried me this year but it’s all love. Numbers never gonna lie. W.e tho. Politics,” wrote Leray in regards to the snub.
Despite the setback, Leray has been nominated for five categories at the forthcoming BET Hip-Hop Awards, including Best Live Performer, Song of the Year, Best Hip Hop Video, Best Collaboration, and Hip Hop Album of the Year.
The Impact on Leray’s Career
The music industry is known for its competitive edge, and receiving a nod from a legend like Beyoncé is no small feat. It not only validates Leray’s talent but also opens up opportunities for her in the future. The recognition from Beyoncé can serve as a stepping stone for Leray, allowing her to connect with a broader audience and get recognition for her work.
The Power of Gratitude
The gesture by Beyoncé also highlights the importance of showing gratitude in the music industry. An industry often marred by fierce competition, it’s refreshing to see artists appreciating each other’s work. Beyoncé’s act of sending flowers to Coi Leray is a testament to her gracious attitude and her ability to acknowledge and appreciate rising talent.
Conclusion
This unexpected gift from Beyoncé to Coi Leray is a beautiful example of the solidarity that exists in the music industry. It’s a reminder that even in a competitive environment, there is room for appreciation, admiration, and mutual respect. As fans, it’s heartwarming to see our favorite artists supporting each other, and as for Coi Leray, this endorsement from Beyoncé is undoubtedly a significant milestone in her career.
by Jonathan P-Wright | Sep 14, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
It’s not every day that a concert ends in a birth. But when the concert is headlined by the legendary Beyoncé, anything can happen. This is a tale of how a highly anticipated music event became the backdrop for a miraculous event.
The Concert: A Night to Remember
Beyoncé, known for her electrifying performances, was headlining her Renaissance Tour. The concert was set to take place on September 4, a date that also marked the pop icon’s 42nd birthday, making the night even more special. As the audience filled up the venue, the air buzzed with excitement, anticipation, and birthday wishes for the queen of pop.
However, amidst the crowd of eager fans, one woman was preparing for a night that would prove to be even more unforgettable than she had anticipated. Sarah Francis Jones, a well-known actress with roles in films like Hairspray and Honey, was in attendance, ready to enjoy the show. Little did she know, she would soon become the main event.
The Unexpected Guest: Baby Nola
Sarah Francis Jones was not only a fan of Beyoncé; she was also a mother-to-be. Her baby, Nola, was due to be born the following week through a scheduled C-section. With this in mind, Sarah intended to enjoy the concert as her “last hurrah” before the arrival of her baby. Little did she know, Nola had other plans.
As the concert progressed, Sarah began to experience what she initially dismissed as Braxton Hicks contractions or gas. However, the discomfort soon intensified, leading her to realize that these were not just false alarms. Nola was on her way.
“I wasn’t thinking that I was going into labor,” Sarah explained. “I wasn’t due for another week, and we actually had a scheduled C-section planned. So I was like, ‘Yep, I’m going to have fun at this concert, it’s my last hurrah before I go into the hospital.’ This baby had other plans, I think she heard Beyoncé’s voice and was like, ‘I want to go too.'”
The Social Media Buzz
Sarah took to social media to share her unexpected adventure. In the video, she can be seen enjoying the concert one moment and realizing that she was in labor the next.
“We thought it was just Braxton hicks or gas turns out we were having a whole baby at @beyonce bday show,” she wrote alongside the video.
The post quickly gained traction, turning Sarah and Nola into overnight sensations. The comments section was filled with well-wishes, congratulations, and expressions of disbelief at the incredible situation.
The Perfect Timing
As fate would have it, the timing of Nola’s arrival couldn’t have been more poetic. Sarah went into labor in the middle of Beyoncé’s concert, on Labor Day. The coincidence was not lost on Sarah. She noted the perfect alignment of events, from the Labor Day concert to Nola being a Virgo, just like her mom and Beyoncé.
“It had to be a perfect set of circumstances. We’re at Beyoncé‘s birthday concert, on Labor Day. And then I go into labor, with my Virgo baby. I’m a Virgo. So it just made sense.”
The Quick Dash to the Hospital
With the contractions intensifying, Sarah and the baby’s father, actor Marcel Spears, had to make a swift exit. Marcel shared his experience of the unexpected turn of events.
“This was my first baby. So I was like, I want to make sure I’m doing everything right,” Spears shared. “I may or may not have sped past some red lights on accident. Please don’t get in trouble. I’m just trying to get my baby to the hospital.”
A Night of Surprises
The concert was not only memorable for Sarah but also for another couple. Comedian Lil Rel Howery proposed to his girlfriend Dannella Lane in front of the crowd at the same concert. Like Sarah, they too had a night they would never forget.
The Aftermath
Sarah’s story quickly spread, capturing the attention of many. Her experience served as a reminder that life is full of unpredictable moments, and sometimes, they align perfectly to create a truly unforgettable experience.
Conclusion
Sarah Francis Jones had planned to enjoy a night of music before welcoming her baby girl. But Nola decided to make her grand entrance on a night marked by celebration and music, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone involved. This is a testament to the unpredictable nature of life and the unique stories it weaves, proving that sometimes, the best moments are the ones we never see coming.
by Pharron Fields | Sep 7, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
As we inch towards the twilight of the summer season and prepare to embrace the crisp ambiance of fall, it is impossible to ignore the mellifluous voices that have serenaded us throughout the season. Mercury may still be in retrograde, but the musical cosmos is in perfect alignment, offering us an array of harmonious compositions that perfectly complement the changing seasons. As the sun sets on Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour, we find solace in the new creations by some of R&B’s most talented artists, helping us transition smoothly into the new season.
Among the myriad of voices, one stands out – Jorja Smith. Her long-awaited sophomore album’s title track has been shared, and it’s as emotion-inducing as Ama Lou and Xenia Manasseh’s debut albums. While we patiently wait for Chase Shakur’s debut LP, he ensures his fans are well-fed with the deluxe edition of his EP. Keke Wyatt is making a stealthy re-entry into music with the lead single from her first album in six years. Additionally, male crooners like Eric Roberson, Lendryx, Landon Thomas, and Beharie are guiding us down a soothing path that’s deeply essential.
Jorja Smith – “Falling or Flying”
Jorja Smith, who welcomed the summer with her singles, “Little Things” and “GO GO GO,” has now unveiled the title track from her highly-anticipated sophomore album, “Falling Or Flying.” During a conversation with Zane Lowe from Apple Music, Smith confessed that this track is currently one of her favorites, depending on her mood.
Smith elaborated, “This song always takes me on a journey, so right now it’s one of my favorites. Maybe because it’s coming out. But it’s funny though because that song started out completely different with me and the producers. It’s the first song we actually ever started together but it didn’t have the chorus before, and we moved everything over and did all sorts to it, and then we got this chorus. But the song has nothing to do with the album title. It’s just called that.”
The music video for “Falling or Flying” also marks Smith’s directorial debut. She had always dreamed of shooting a video in space, and this song gave her the perfect opportunity to fulfill that dream. She candidly mentioned that she wanted to journey into space with someone she loved and cherished, but they didn’t reciprocate her enthusiasm.
Smith’s new album is set to release on September 29, and music enthusiasts are eagerly waiting for the release.
Ama Lou – “I Came Home Late”
Ama Lou’s debut album, “I Came Home Late,” is a testament to her profound songwriting skills. With an assortment of 15 tracks, including previously released singles “Silence” and “Caught Me Running,” the album paints a vivid picture of Lou’s artistic range.
Lou began songwriting at a tender age and released her debut single, “TBC,” in 2016, which caught the attention of Drake and heavily influenced his 2018 album, “Scorpion.” She has since dropped three EPs, providing fans with a taste of her depth before unveiling “I Came Home Late.”
Chase Shakur – “It’s not you, it’s me… it’s love”
Chase Shakur continues to tantalize his fans, who are eagerly waiting for his debut album, with the release of his deluxe EP, “It’s not you, it’s me… it’s love.” The EP follows the highs and lows of a tumultuous relationship, providing an insight into the male perspective of an emotionally-charged romance. The captivating follow-up includes three new tracks: “nite,” “exit 65,” and “you’re so lovely.”
Shakur has clarified on his Instagram that “this is NOT the album,” and is looking forward to performing these tracks live on his “It’s Still Love Tour.”
K. Michelle – “Blame Yourself”
K. Michelle is gearing up for the release of her final R&B album, “I’m The Problem,” and has shared the LP’s fourth single, “Blame Yourself.” The introspective track urges women to take some accountability and introspect whether they are the problem in their relationships.
The Memphis native sings, “You’re playing the victim all because he made you look stupid/ ‘Fore you put the blame on everybody else/ Point to the mirror and blame yourself.” Her honest and heartfelt lyrics echo the album’s premise.
Back in May, K. Michelle candidly expressed on Instagram, “I am the problem. Took me so long to solve ’em.” In a recent interview with The Shade Room, she added, “I’m gon’ be the problem regardless. The industry gonna label you. It doesn’t matter. I could try to change; I could be better, [but] no matter what I do, I’m a problem because I still stand for what I stand for and I am how I am. It just is what it is.”
LAYA – “Bet That”
LAYA’s long-awaited new EP, “BET THAT,” is finally here. The seven-track project is a confident flex, proving that LAYA is in charge of her world and isn’t budging one bit on that matter. The unapologetic anthem, “F’d Up,” set the tone for the EP, and the Staten Island, N.Y. native continued that momentum with “I Ain’t Playin’,” title track, “Bet That,” and the manic yet soulful “Psycho Bitch.”
The EP succeeds her debut EP, “Um, Hello.” If you’ve been missing out on this rising star, consider this an alert to wake up.
Raiche – “Big Daddy”
Raiche’s new single, “Big Daddy,” is a breath of fresh air as she addresses an alternative perspective from records like Usher’s “Hey Daddy (Daddy’s Home).” Her soothing, distinct tone captivates listeners as she sings, “You just stepped in/ What you bout to prove/ Big daddy, come take real good care of me/ Say that’s what you can be […] You know what your baby needs/ Just come through.”
The singer, with her soulful roots and alternative pop flair, recently performed at 2023’s Atlanta Funk Fest. Since her debut single in 2018, she has amassed over 20 million international streams and has been featured in Netflix’s Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker and on The Kelly Clarkson Show.
Beharie – “We Never Knew”
Beharie is a dream we never knew we needed. Our introduction to the Norwegian crooner is his latest single, “We Never Knew.” The idyllic production is a somber reflection on a forever love that’s now non-existent.
The singer explains, “In the heat of it all. When you lose yourself in it. How things made sense, and how the bad things were ignored. But little did we know that we would end up being strangers.”
The record stems from his in-depth exploration of varying identities as heard on his upcoming debut album, “Are You There, Boy?,” set to arrive on October 20. Of the album, he explains in a statement, “This album has given me the opportunity to delve into various aspects of my own identity, and in the process, I have explored the complexity inherent in my personality and expression.”
Eric Roberson – “I Apologize”
Eric Roberson is honoring the indie R&B movement with a series of new monthly releases. “I Apologize” is the second single of the series, inspired by what the crooner considers to be his “creative gumbo.”
Co-written and produced by Jairus Mozee, Brett “B Dubb” Baker, Rodney Jones, and Roberson, the latter explains in a statement, “The song is inspired by the creative gumbo that feeds my music. The theatrical musicality of Stevie Wonder, heartfelt word play of urban contemporary gospel group Commissioned, and the unapologetic low-end approach of A Tribe Called Quest.”
Marzz – “In The Morning”
Marzz is back! Two years after the release of their debut EP, Love Letterz, and its subsequent deluxe installment, the singer’s impassioned new single, “In The Morning,” hypnotizes us once more.
“This song represents a feeling of waiting until the morning, getting excited of the unknown,” they explained in a statement. “It’s the wishful understanding of everything within a relationship. Sometimes we need understanding about falling in love when we’re not sure.” Ultimately, Marzz hopes their music encourages listeners to “create their own narratives” but in a magical way.
Landon Thomas – “Anything”
Landon Thomas may be new to us, but R&B is embedded in his DNA. With the lead single, “Anything,” from his forthcoming album, “R U STILL MAD AT ME,” the Pittsburgh, Pa. native is making his mark as a trailblazer with his infectious melodies and unique spin on contemporary R&B.
As he sings “Do you mind/ If I slide on you/ Spend time with you tonight/ Do you mind if I chill with you/ Make it real for you,” we’re drawn into the heartwarming embrace of his sultry tone.
“Anything” irresistibly sets the tone for the LP centered about intricate feelings, relationships, and ultimately, self-discovery.
“R U STILL MAD AT ME” arrives on Sunday, September 3.
Xenia Manasseh – “Love/Hate, PT. 1”
Xenia Manasseh’s debut album, “Love/Hate, Pt. 1,” is an emotional rollercoaster focused on love’s unpredictability. The 11-track LP is for delicate yet powerful women as the Kenyan-born, Los Angeles-based singer fuses her heritage with a sorrowful, intensely honest masterpiece.
After earning songwriting credits on Teyana Taylor’s The Album and singing background vocals for Taylor, Big Sean, and Burna Boy, fans love Xenia’s universal lyricism and earnest personal reflections.
“All the songs are special to me because they all came from me, they’re all my feelings on a page or in a song and the creation of all songs is sentimental to me,” she shared in a statement of the album. “But I will single out GI’s intro that is with my grandfather, Edgar Manasseh, GI is his nickname. That was done this year and was extremely sentimental and emotional because he has influenced so much of my musical journey. I can think of days when I was growing up he would teach me how to play things on the piano and his music collection is incredible.”
The endearing Swahili song was paired with a Luka Tututu composition. The LP wraps up just as strong as it began with the emotive yet hopeful “Love/Hate.”
She explained, “‘Love/Hate’ is also one of the tracks I felt that was the song that encompassed all the feelings that are spoken about in the album–the good, the bad, and in-between. I try to remember that balance as a lifeline. I’m also a Libra which is the sign of the scale, so I try to see the world through that lens and I felt like it’s not just representative of the album but also of me. I feel like everything in the album falls under those two words. It’s like a pendulum swing–you’re in and you’re out.”
Most of all, she hopes listeners take away the understanding of love’s karmic journey while also learning that it’s just the beginning. “This is just part 1 of the album; there’s a part 2 and in all of it, just know that love always comes around and it’s how you approach it the second time that matters.”
Keke Wyatt – “Water Into Wine”
The first offering from Keke Wyatt’s new album–her first in six years–has arrived. “Water Into Wine” showcases the mother of 11’s soulful roots as she gets honest with her lover about some expectations and realities.
“I really feel good about signing with Shanachie!” the singer said of her new team in a statement. “I’m excited and finally ready. I feel like this time we will create magic together and make HISTORY!”
Shanachie General Manager, Randall Grass, chimed in, “At a time when great singers are in short supply, Keke Wyatt continually displays what real singing is all about. Her range, power and intensely felt vocals connect with her audiences on the deepest level. We loved working with her before and are very excited to work with her now to make an epic new album.”
The reality TV star assures fans that her new LP will spotlight “good ole sanging” and will be an honest look into her life as she gears up to bare it all.
Lendryx – “Forces”
Lendryx is channeling two R&B legends with his new single, “Forces.”
Produced by Dionso, OSEI, and Jproof, the slow jam oozes romantic gratification as the crooner also inquires about the tug ‘o war battle of not wanting to fall in love, but also realizing that may be out of his control.
“I don’t wanna be in love/ But you’re so tempting/ When you leave the room, it feels so empty/ I’m trying be tough/ I’m fighting forces,” he sings.
Lendryx feels the ballad is his most “dynamic vocal performance yet” and admits that he challenged himself by using Tyrese’s “Signs Of Love Makin'” and Brandy’s range as the foundational elements of his vocal execution. It follows his previous single from April, “Just My Turn.”
Shae Universe – “Passenger Princess”
Shae Universe is riding the wave of her recent single, “Passenger Princess,” with the premiere of its visual. The song’s video, starring Kojey Radical, hints at the enthralling story being told as the title card reads, “Ever wish you could go back in time?”
Viewers see Shae seated in the backseat during a late-night drive as she reflects on some lingering feelings and bittersweet memories. The song, itself, was birthed by those emotions.
“He’d sent me roses all the way from LA and I still wasn’t over everything we’d been through when I received them, so I put all my mixed emotions into this song,” the UK-bred songbird stated of the record.
“I think ‘Passenger Princess’ is a very special song because not only is the title current and relatable, but the song’s deeper message of not always knowing exactly how to navigate situations is part of being a human with feelings. A part that sometimes frustrates us but hopefully, through this song, people feel seen and confident enough to accept this grey area of life.”
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