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New RnB Music Blog

Hannah Johnson pioneered a new path through 90s nostalgia-wrapped alt-pop with her sophomore release, Mine

Posted on 22 April 2024

Hannah Johnson’s sophomore hit ‘Mine‘ blew all expectations out of the water following her 2023 debut, ‘Slow Motion‘. Mine is a kaleidoscope of sound that catapults listeners into the past and the promising future of pop music. The masterclass in genre fusion blends the rhythmic bounce of funk, the raw edge of pop-punk, and the lush textures of R&B into a compelling pop synthesis.

From the outset, ‘Mine’ pulses with a life of its own, driven by Johnson’s rich vibrato that dances over layers of funky guitar riffs and a solid dance-y backbeat. The production, with its lo-fi charm, accentuates the authenticity of her musical exploration, allowing her distinctive voice to guide the narrative through this densely woven sonic landscape.

Johnson’s journey from the quiet suburbs of Coppell, Texas, to an emerging pop sensation is reflected in her music’s ambitious reach. With her roots in diverse musical disciplines, from drum beats to lyrical piano melodies, Johnson channels this extensive background into a sound that recontextualises the sonic past and builds the future of pop.

With ‘Mine’, she not only secures her spot as a trailblazer in the pop genre but also invites her growing audience of nearly 30,000 monthly Spotify listeners to join her in a vibrant exploration of musical boundaries. This single is less a step and more a stride towards the zenith of pop charts, promising that Hannah Johnson’s trajectory in the music world will be as intriguing as the melodies she creates.

Mine was officially released on March 15th; stream the single on Spotify.  

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Manchester soul sensation, Tsana lit the ignition of self-liberation with her single, All of Me

Posted on 16 April 2024

With her standout single, All of Me, Manchester’s Tsana, rewrote the time-old tale of giving your all in a relationship and receiving only regret in return and reached the epitome of class in the process. Even though emotions run red-hot in the deep groove pockets of the authentic RnB installation, there’s no room for self-pity in the ignition of self-liberation, which feeds into her signature ‘street-soul’ style.

Knowing it is all too easy to slip into a cascade of self-doubt when someone refuses to affirm your worth, Tsana became the ultimate role model for anyone who knows how bittersweet to come away from a relationship scathed by unappreciation.

The Manchester-based soulstress, riding high in her ‘grown woman era’ following a hiatus which saw her bring new life into the world, was a firebrand before her break from the studio and stages, with her latest EP, Lovehood, she’s not just in her element, she’s setting the UK soul scene alight with her cognizant cultivated aura. By finding the ultimate equilibrium between confident sophistication and hell-hath-no-fury unreckonable energy, she’s the best Manchester has to offer in 2024.

All of Me is available to stream on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Darius Marquis weaved RnB, Retro-Pop & Gospel into a Folklore Serenade with ‘Fairytales’

Posted on 15 April 2024

Like every good folk tale, Darius Marquis’ standout single, Fairytales, alters the mind through expansions of the imagination. The slick with soul and swathed with experimentation release exists between the borders of genres, exploring untrodden intersections of RnB, retro pop and gospel, allowing Fairytales to unravel as an exploratively sincere extension of candour.

Fairytales nuancedly exposits how stories shape our perceptions of the world while we’re too innocent to experience the unfair brutality of it only for those illusions to be shattered, one shot to the heart at a time. The Houston-based artist and producer charted these emotional themes with folk-esque eloquent ease, allowing the poetic fragments of introspection to flow throughout the hazy instrumental currents with melodious ease. With gospel infused into the grooves, the melodies endlessly ascend beneath Darius Marquis’ honeyed harmonies which bring luminescence to the most bitter-sweet facets of life.

If there was as much justice in the world as fairytales would have us believe, Marquis would be a #1 phenomenon.

Stream Fairytales on Spotify now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

‘Drift’ into euphony with Drew Dean’s Latest RnB Soul Serenade

Posted on 14 April 2024

Drew Dean’s latest single ‘Drift‘ tranquilly unravels as a celestial blend of soulful rhythms and ethereal melodies which pays homage to the 90s R&B aesthetic while boldly stepping into the future of the genre. Hailing from the vibrant shores of St. Kitts & Nevis, Dean’s journey in music, marked by a nomadic childhood and a rich West Indian heritage, culminates in this mesmerising track, which invites you to get lost in a lush tapestry of innovation.

Dean’s voice presents a paradox through the light luminescence of the register and the profound emotional depth it carries through the layers of R&B, Neo-Soul, Pop, and a hint of trappy hip-hop beats. Hit play and float in a dream-like state, unbound by the gravity of mundane reality.

The single’s cinematic quality makes it worthy of any Hollywood love story soundtrack, yet it retains an intimacy that feels like a love letter that anyone would want to muse. The testament to love’s divine nature and Dean’s execution is nothing short of angelic.

Dean’s influences, ranging from The Fugees to D’Angelo, resonate in his eclectic style, aptly termed ‘Eclectic Soul’. His background in church choirs and various international influences have clearly shaped his ability to create music that not only entertains but also touches the soul.

With ‘Drift’, Drew Dean solidifies his place in the evolving world of R&B, not just as a singer but as a visionary.

Stream the official music video for Drift, which premiered on March 22, on YouTube.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Sarah O’Moore – Troubled Mind: A Soulful Reflection on Contemporary Tribulation

Posted on 8 April 2024

Sarah O’Moore’s latest single, ‘Troubled Mind’, from her upcoming debut EP ‘Social Paralysis‘, is a poignant exploration of mental health and the complexities of modern life. The powerful narrative challenges the listener to introspectively sit with societal expectations and personal struggles and proves that good songs make you feel, great songs inspire profound shifts of perception.

‘Troubled Mind’ is a testament to O’Moore’s exceptional ability to blend genres, fusing elements of RnB, Folk, and Soulful Jazz into an indie singer-songwriter production. Her vocal harmonies, reminiscent of Amy Winehouse and Macy Gray, carry endless emotional weight, resulting in a hauntingly affecting delivery as the instrumentals complement her voice perfectly, creating an eye-opening soundscape which addresses the disconnect in conversations about mental health. She delves into the reality of living with the scars of trauma and facing an uncertain future, a theme that resonates deeply in today’s climate. Her music offers a space to sit with struggles authentically, without succumbing to the pressures of toxic positivity.

Inspired by James Joyce’s “Dubliners”, O’Moore’s upcoming EP, ‘Social Paralysis’, promises to delve further into themes of social stagnation and the struggles of today’s youth. ‘Troubled Mind’ sets the tone for this journey, inviting listeners to confront the unspoken and find solace in shared experiences.

Troubled Mind was officially released on March 29; stream the single on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

GeeMarr ignited a carnal flame with his exotically expansive RnB hit, Fire & Desire

Posted on 8 April 2024

GeeMarr, the UK’s RnB firebrand, ignited the genre with his latest single ‘Fire & Desire‘. The stylistic fusion of RnB, afrobeat, pop, and soul elements showcases GeeMarr’s versatility and creativity when blending diverse musical influences.

The intro of ‘Fire & Desire’ is a nostalgic nod to the 80s era of RnB, setting the stage for a contemporary twist that GeeMarr executes flawlessly. The track pulsates with modern cuts, seamlessly integrating autotuned reggaeton-esque vocal lines with sun-pierced melodies. The sax lines spill soul by the smorgasbord, weaving through the song and adding a rich, emotive layer to the already vibrant soundscape.

GeeMarr’s lyrics in ‘Fire & Desire’ resonate like mantras, creating a heady sonic haven that you’ll want to occupy all summer and ensuring that the midtempo vignette captures the sweetness of finding someone who evokes feelings of both love and lust. Even if you’re riding solo, you’ll get a taste of how sweet adding fuel to your carnal fire is.

Born in Jamaica and raised in South London, GeeMarr’s global influences are evident in his music. His repertoire spans Afrobeats, R&B, and Soul, and ‘Fire & Desire’ is a culmination of his artistic evolution. After a 5-year hiatus and a series of captivating freestyles on social media, GeeMarr is not just making a comeback; he’s redefining his sound.

GeeMarr’s involvement in every stage of his music, from writing and producing to mixing and mastering, ensures that his sonic signature blazes through ‘Fire & Desire’. This track is a must-listen for fans of RnB and anyone looking for a summer anthem that combines the best of global beats with the soulful depth of RnB.

Stream the official music video for Fire & Desire which dropped on March 28th on YouTube.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Harmonising Art and Ambition: Deshon Washington’s Exclusive Interview with A&R Factory

Posted on 7 April 2024

In an intimate sit-down with A&R Factory, Deshon Washington, the soulful voice behind the upcoming single ‘Work of Art’, shares the essence of his growing musical legacy. As he recounts his start in the music industry, from karaoke bars in Conway, Arkansas, to the global stage of Carnival Cruise Lines, Washington’s narrative is a testament to growth, resilience, and the power of staying true to one’s artistic vision. His experiences, including a pivotal appearance on Netflix’s ‘Sing On!’, have shaped his unique sonic signature, turning challenges into stepping stones towards greater heights.

This interview is a deep dive into the heart of an artist who sees rejection as a catalyst for reinvention, and who dreams of one day conquering Madison Square Garden. Join us as we explore the highs and lows of a life dedicated to music, and the ambitious journey of a voice that refuses to be confined by the sea.

Thank you for the opportunity to sit down with you ahead of the release of your next single, Work of Art, what’s the story behind the single?

 “The story behind this single is that I could always look at a painting or any piece of art and seem infatuated by it, but one day I saw a woman who surpassed everything from my past, and it seemed the future, that I ever seen. I knew that the only way I could explain it was through song.”

How do the instrumentals in your upcoming single complement the emotional themes?

The single gives a very free and funky vibe. The song is filled with love and happiness (shout out to Al Green, an inspiration to me).

How and when did you start cutting your teeth in the music industry?

I started in 2018 when I released my first single “Little Time”. I was singing karaoke for 2 years prior in a bar called Kings Live Music, in Conway, Arkansas. I tried to find my voice and my own style before putting my own thoughts and visions into the public eye. Ever since then I’ve been growing and learning more about myself and the music industry. I still have a lot to learn, and I want to make it bigger than I’ve ever imagined.

How have your experiences in the music industry shaped your sonic signature?

A lot of people will see rejection as a sign of failure and let their vision dim. But I have seen it as the torch that lights my way to a brighter future. My experience in the industry hasn’t been all amazing, but the parts that have been, have completely overshadowed the bad parts. I have seen myself in a bigger venue than I already have been and only see myself getting bigger. Getting told no, and being rejected has made me redefine myself and mold myself into a better artist today than I was yesterday.

Your Netflix debut seems to have been a pivotal moment in your career; how did you land a spot on ‘Sing On!’, and what other doors did this opportunity open?

I landed it after competing in the KWC, Karaoke World Championships in Las Vegas in 2019. I made it on the National tryouts after making it past state, and once I made it, I got contacted by a casting director about trying out for a new singing show that would be on Netflix. It has opened a few doors for me, not as much as I thought, but I know the cause of why it hasn’t. I had to get out of my comfort zone, that being my home town, to see what other doors were out there for me to open. One of those doors was Carnival. I’ve had more success and growth in Carnival in the span of 2 years than I’ve ever done at home.

Can you give us an insight into the highs and lows of working as a singer for Carnival Cruise Lines?

The highs of being a singer on Carnival are the consistent work, the opportunity to sing songs outside of your comfort zone and to be able to expand on your artistic abilities. Being around so many different nationalities has its amazing parts as well. You grow as a person on the outside and inside, getting to know and understand the other nations. The lows are mostly being away from home and missing family and friends. It can take a huge toll on you, especially when a family emergency happens, and you can’t get home.

What is it like to release music at sea?

It can be very daunting. It’s a difficult step to get through because of internet issues on the ship and not always being in the same time frame as your producer/engineer. But it has its own rewards as well, because once you release it, you have thousands of people that you can promote your song to, every cruise.

Where do you see your talent taking you next?

My main goal is to sell out Madison Square Garden one day.  I feel like I am in the beginning years of the new and final me. Like I have found myself, my sound, my style, and I’m ready to take it to the world and take it over.

Thank you for your time!

–

Stream Deshon Washington on Spotify, discover more about the artist on his official website and follow him via Instagram and Facebook.

Interview by Amelia Vandergast

Twivee orchestrated an RnB hip-hop vignette of resilience and motivation with Ray of Hope

Posted on 5 April 2024

Twivee, the UK-based RnB and hip-hop fusionist delivered a compelling narrative of resilience and motivation in his latest single, ‘Ray of Hope‘.

‘Ray of Hope’ is a storm of fiery emotion, rampaging through Twivee’s distinctive vocal lines. His voice carries a unique blend of rough and smooth, soul and gruff grit, consolation and conviction. This duality in his voice mirrors the complexities of life’s struggles, making the track an emotional odyssey worth taking.

Twivee orchestrated a perfect backdrop for the mood of the track. The indie lo-fi elements, washed in saturation, amplify the intimacy and vulnerability of the release, while the grooves in the chorus are infectious, locking listeners into the momentum, making it a go-to anthem for anyone doubting their ability to navigate through life’s chaotic moments.

Twivee’s talent as a writer, producer, engineer, singer, and rapper shines through in this self-produced track. The bridge serves as a pivotal moment in the song, bridging the gap between the negatives and the positives. Lines like “Behind these eyes, I’ve seen pain” and “But I’ve seen skies and where it rains, it clears sometimes” encapsulate the essence of the track – a message of hope and perseverance.

Ray of Hope will hit the airwaves on April 5th; stream the single on SoundCloud.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Sojourn to Tijuana with The Dream X’s Latest Serving of Hip-Hop Exoticism

Posted on 2 April 2024

After The Dream X racked up over 600k Spotify streams with his sophomore single, Tijuana, we had to know what the hype was about, and we quickly found it within the instrumental exoticism of the vibrant sojourn of a release which will leave you riding high on the waves of the oceanic production.

With the hazy melodies working in contrast to the bitter-sweet lyricism which explores the anti-climax of post-breakup hook-ups, there are as many layers to the emotions as there are to the genre-fluid instrumentals which fuse Latin guitars with a pseudo-trap backbeat and afrobeat colour.

Tijuana is the kind of track you’ll hit play on and feel the compulsion to crank up the volume until it’s slamming through your speakers and melodiously reverberating through you so you can savour the honeyed elixir which pours from The Dream X’s vocal harmonies which groove between his rap bars.

The Utah-based rapper, singer, producer, and actor is a fucking phenomenon, and we’re already desperate to hear what comes next.

Stream Tijuana on Spotify now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Slip into the sheets of euphoria with Deshon Washington’s RnB hit, Stay the Night

Posted on 30 March 2024
https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=vR-XrlMrCA4&si=gZSTSk2_PROKWy_y

Take the time to slip away from the Weeknd and into the superlative RnB pop solace and soul which resounds in Deshon Washington’s standout single, Stay the Night. With one of the seamlessly smooth crescendos on the airwaves, the single erupts into a burst of affection-derived euphoria as the backbeat bolsters and the passion spilling from Washington’s vocal lines intensifies.

By building up from a tenderly caressive start and allowing the soundscape, which intertwines 80s, 90s, and contemporary RnB aesthetics, to ensue into a cascade of ardour, Stay the Night becomes so much more than a proclamation of passion from the Arkansas singer-songwriter. You almost get a first-hand experience of hitting the sheets with one of the most seductive artists on the scene when you hit play.

After cutting his teeth in the indie RnB scene for the past seven years, Deshon Washington’s time to dominate the charts is now. Following being cast on the Netflix series Sing On, earning his stripes as an international performer and a nomination for R&B Vocalist of the Year in 2023, we have no doubt that 2024 will be the year when he moves from criminally underrated to internationally acclaimed.

Stream Stay the Night on YouTube now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast