The R&B genre of music is ever-evolving, and there are constantly new artists hitting the scene. This year alone has introduced over a dozen artists to the R&B scene, some of whom are independent musicians signed to smaller labels and others on their way to making it big.
Here is a list of amazing artists you should consider adding to your playlists.
Coming in last but certainly not least on our list is south-east London singer-songwriter and producer J Warner.
Warner first emerged on the music scene in 2015 with the 90s-inspired EP Est. 1990, which included collaborations with Wretch 32 and ColorsxStudios alum Korey Radical. Warner released Figure 8 in 2020, a follow-up to “Est. 1990, ” including the single “Strawberry Moon.” Warner’s music can be found on most music streaming platforms.
Next on our list is contemporary R&B singer TheART$ST.
Hailing from Newark, NJ, this singer’s music encompasses heartfelt melodies and lyrics that detail love’s woes. In her latest EP, ARTchives, she sings about the imperfection of romantic relationships and her determination to experience them regardless.
R&B singer-songwriter and producer Khamari is known for channeling vulnerability in his music, such as in his song “These Four Walls” where he talks about his loneliness.
Raised in the Dorchester neighborhood of Boston, MA, he often samples old-school Soul/R&B with hints of gospel and electronic beats. Khamari’s songs can be found on most major music streaming platforms.
Coming up next on our list is English R&B singer Tamera.
Tamara first joined the music scene as a constant on the 10th series of the U.K.’s The X Factor. Her music is known for experimenting with afrofusion infused with R&B melodies, as seen in many of her songs including “Wickedest.” Tamera’s music is available to download on most major music streaming platforms.
Coming up midway on our list is Nigerian-born British singer/songwriter Shaé Universe.
Based in London, she first stepped onto the music scene in 2017 after releasing her debut singles “Big Mistake” (ft. Ms. Banks) and “Moves,” and has since made waves in London, West Africa, and beyond with her spiritual, soothing music. Shaé is currently signed with ColorsxStudios, and her music can be downloaded on most major streaming platforms.
R&B artist Maeta has collaborated with the likes of Chris Brown, Free Nationals, Lucky Daye, and more.
Based in LA, her new EP “Habits” is a reflection of her personal growth, after conquering personal struggles such as toxic relationships and finding her confidence. Maeta additionally has made a name for herself as a live performer. Nationally, she has two performances coming up, first at the Field Trip Music Festival in Brooklyn on Sept. 7, and at the same festival at The Novo in LA on Sept. 12. Internationally, she will be performing at Billboard Live in Tokyo on Aug. 28 and 29. Get tickets here. Maeta’s songs can be downloaded on most major music streaming platforms.
Sultry loverboy R&B singer with main character energy Destin Conrad‘s sticky, sweet vocals are paired with a mix of R&B rhythms, soft reggae beats such as in his song “LUV N DEVOTION.”
Twenty-two-year-old Conrad hails from Tampa and got his start on Vine before it was shut down, where he gained a large following working alongside his longtime friend/collaborator, singer-songwriter Kehlani. Conrad’s music can be downloaded on most major audio streaming services.
Natanya is a grunge-fusion R&B artist with euphoric vocals who began playing piano at the age of five.
A natural musician, she created one of her tracks, “Angel,” within 20 minutes, and hails from a musical background. Based in North London, Natanya released her debut EP, Sorrow at Sunrise, an introduction to how her mind paints “real-life stories frozen in time,” in 2023. Listen to Natanya’s songs anywhere you download your music.
Right before our top pick is R&B artist Summer Banton.
Her latest track, “Be My Guest” will have you thinking, “Yeahhh, she’s that girl.” Her sultry voice, R&B heavy beats, and friendly warmth to her songs make for lovable tracks, reminiscent of the 2000s R&B Destiny’s Child era. Check out Summer’s songs on any music streaming platform.
Our Top R&B Artist of the Year
Coming in at the top of our list for R&B artist of the year is singer Samaria. Recently signed to RCA, her latest EP Even Paradise Rain‘s takes listeners to lover girl airlines where you’re encouraged to “activate your feelings and maximize the volume of your preferred listening device.” Samria’s music doubles as a safe space and a healing tool, soundtracked by a blend of R&B, Soul, and subtle nods to 2000s pop. One of her best tracks, “Serial Rescue” is sure to get stuck in your head and be a song you’ll want to put on repeat in your playlist. Listen to “Serial Rescue” and more of Samaria’s hits on any music streaming platform.
Recently signed to RCA, her latest EP Even Paradise Rain‘s takes listeners to lover girl airlines where you’re encouraged to “activate your feelings and maximize the volume of your preferred listening device.” Samria’s music doubles as a safe space and a healing tool, soundtracked by a blend of R&B, Soul, and subtle nods to 2000s pop. One of her best tracks, “Serial Rescue” is sure to get stuck in your head and be a song you’ll want to put on repeat in your playlist. Listen to “Serial Rescue” and more of Samaria’s hits on any music streaming platform.
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