10 Independent Black Musicians You Should Know
The current mix of music on the radio has a great selection of hits from popular names like Rihanna, Cardi-B, SZA, Migos, and even Drake among many others. While all of these artists may be talented, there are plenty of smaller black musicians that are flying under the radar. People of color dominate hip-hop, so much in fact that hip-hop is poised to overtake pop in terms of numbers of worldwide listeners. A worldwide mainstream appeal in one genre is great for artists of color, however, black musicians have so much more to offer.
There are gems to be found in the neo-soul, R&B, classical, country, and alternative niches that are truly worth the air time. If you are interested in adding some catchy tunes to your record rotation, we have put together a list of 10 Independent Black Musicians that you should check out. They range from a multitude of musical influences and a diverse selection of genres. You may be surprised how many of our talented independent suggestions will turn into your cult favorites.
#1 - Grace Givertz
The folk guitar has never sounded so passionate than when played by the talented Grace Givertz. She has a powerful voice which she pairs with her self-written lyrics to break your heart and rebuild your spirit all in the same song. Her most recent album, “Year of the Horse”, will take you on a poetic journey that wells your heart and soothes your soul.
#2 - Cliff Notez
What list would be complete without at least one independent hip-hop artist? Cliff Notez is a skilled lyricist and multimedia artist that brings his unique take on the world to the mainstream. He covers a range of important topics to the Black community such as race and mental health. The beats of his tracks match his nuanced and witty words in a way that educates you while also keeping you entertained. Check out his most recent albums, “Why the Wild Things Are” and “When the Sidewalk Ends” to get a taste of this critical ear candy.
#3 - Ashleigh Gordon
When you are ready to slow it down, Ashleigh Gordon has just the sound you need to relax your mind. She is a skilled violist and also co-founded Castle of our Skins which offers even more Black artists a platform to share their art. Her musical notes will inspire and soothe as well as invigorate your senses.
#4 -Keenyn Omari
Take a step outside of the mainstream and enjoy the delight of Keenyn Omari’s polyglot processing and staggered drum programs. Reminiscent of the indie artist Knxwledge style, Keenyn takes things further with his own spin. The hazy blends have you tapping your feet and bopping along with the beat. Check out his last record “Luvlee”, before his next album drops.
#5 -NorthStar Duo
The sounds of the sax and the flute have never been so passionate as when they are produced by Adrienne Baker and Seychelle Dunn. This Black duo celebrates and showcases compositions from lesser know works and composers of classical music. You can catch them online, in podcasts, or even in courtyard concerts. Their music is soothing to the soul and the ears making it a delight for all ages.
#6 - Victoria Monét
R&B is the bread and butter of Black music. There are so many soulful artists out there that it is hard to sort through the sounds, but Victoria Monét has set herself apart. She has worked with top names such as Arianna Grande, Nas, TI, and Brandy but is most known for her own unique sounds. She is a little bit of funk mixed in with some classic R&B which makes for the perfect mix of new music to tickle your earbuds.
#7 -Anthony R. Green
When you combine a social justice artist, composer and performer all in one package you have yourself the talented Anthony R. Green. He works with several mediums including piano and performance art to get his message across to his audience. His music and art mainly cover racial injustice in the United States, equality, civil rights, and other topics important to African Americans. If you love classical music with a purpose, then you will love his work.
#8 - Arlo Parks
When you want to rediscover your passion for music, songwriter-singer Arlo Parks is the right person to rekindle your love. She offers captivating singles that capture the essence of Gen-Z black confessional pop. Her French accent and English twang give her music a unique flair that will have you adding her to your top playlist in no time.
#9 Francine Thirteen
There is nothing more entertaining than listening to stories in the form of music. Francine Thirteen creates a mix of poetry and Afrofuturism to create pop music with a spiritual flair. When we say spiritual, we don’t mean religious but rather her hypnotic lyrics and creative delivery will speak to you on a deeper level. The majority of her work focuses on black women’s empowerment.
#10- Rico Nasty
Rico Nasty is an independent black artist that has chosen to toss the rulebook out the window. She is an innovator in the music field and has created a new niche of music by mixing punk and rap to create a whole new sound. She has captured the hearts of the new generation by creating music that everyone can identify with. Check out her newest album Nightmare Vacation to get an eargasm you won’t soon forget.
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