Black female artists have a lot to bring to the table when it comes to music. Black women have been breaking out of the stereotypical genres and have been entering into new genres like alt-r&b and indie. If you’re looking for some new artists to listen to, I have some recommendations.
Little Simz
Known for her song “Venom” which blew up on TikTok, Little Simz is a London-based hip hop/ rap artist. The song’s popularity led to her remix of the piece being featured in Marvel’s “Venom: Let There Be Carnage”. But Little Simz has other listen-worthy pieces in her repertoire, her 2021 album “Sometimes I Might Be Introvert” has a relaxed feel featuring samples of older songs and soundbites that add unique touches to the album.
Recommendations: “Woman”, “Two Worlds Apart”, “Point and Kill”
Syd Tha Kyd/ The Internet
Lead singer of the band “The Internet” and solo artist under the name “Syd Tha Kyd”, Syd is a singer, songwriter, and music video director whose songs often are about her relationships with other women. She often collaborates with other R&B/ alt-R&B artists such as Tyler the Creator, KAYTRANADA, and even co-wrote “Plastic off the Sofa” by Beyoncé. Like the previous artist, Syd’s music is very relaxed, the kind of music you need to listen to with good headphones to truly experience.
Recommendations: “YOU’RE THE ONE”, “Come Over”, “Palace/Curse” (the second half of the song is better in my opinion)
Arlo Parks
Arlo Parks is an indie-pop musician whose music holds themes of mental health and sexuality. Parks’s music is inspired by poetry, something that is very evident in her lyrics as they flow together to make her easy-listening songs sound meaningful. Arlo Parks is an artist whose music benefits from a second initial listen, one to pay attention to the music and another for the lyrics.
Recommendations: “Black Dog”, “Green Eyes”, “Cola”
