by Noah Redmond
So many R&B artists are catching my attention as I dive into the scene. I’m already a fan of Erykah Badu and SZA, but since Culture Shock has been on the air, I’ve enjoyed music from LiBianca, Giveon, Victoria Monet and some debuting artists. I wanted to highlight my favorites from the last semester we found.
Coco Jones
An actor-turned-musician, Tennessee-raised Coco Jones has diversified the R&B scene. The 27-year-old’s latest, Why Not More, is a raw, emotional album that does stick to the roots of R&B. The record feels like walking through time, possibly due to the sample from Brittany Spears, but mostly because it carries a meaning that’s only understood after a few good listens.
This album is longer than it feels when listening as it’s a touching, versatile debut project. With this, Jones works with her emotions to craft an immersive story and showcases her ability to be authentic. Her exposure from Disney to dropping this debut album serves as testimony for all who continue the grind, leaving the listener feeling powerful and wanting more. The production throughout the album is strong, as London on da Track’s executive ear supports her voice in a complimentary way.
Above all, what shines through for me are the seamless transitions within this album. Jones’ presence feels timeless, and the honesty in her delivery makes the album digestible, drawing comparison to the work of Erykah Badu, who I’ll mention more than once. Just when it couldn’t get better, she had to add a deluxe with Alicia Keys after already featuring Future! You should give Why Not More a listen, alongside some other debut artists.
Sailorr
Up-and-coming 26-year-old Vietnamese R&B artist Sailorr has reached exclusive territories with the release of her debut album, From Florida’s Finest, with critics across the internet describing it as a 4-star album. Sailorr’s debut is an amazing album, starting with the first track, “SOFT GIRL SUMMER.” It has a very calm but vulnerable vibe to it, pulling listeners into the notion that this is going to be an introspective album on herself that sets the stage for the project.
What stands out most is how Sailorr moves between affection and seemingly also is done playing games with people who don’t give their all in relationships, showing her ability to understand she wants love and affection but isn’t going to settle for nonsense. This duality is what makes the project relatable, not just to me, but a lot of people in this generation. A lot of us are looking for a partner that cares about a relationship.
Following her viral record Pookie’s Requiem, the proud Vietnamese artist has been on a rapid rise. Her viral breakout shows that lyrical integrity is a high priority for consumers of music, which is something I stand for when it comes to the music that I want to listen to. Still, the quieter songs are powerful, touching the soul and leaving the listener able to relate to Sailorr and her feelings on the world. The production throughout the album is soft and subtle, almost like the early albums of Erykah Badu, who Sailorr is inspired by. This supports her voice in a way that allows her to glide through the songs with ease.
What comes through most is how Sailorr’s presence feels ethereal, and the honesty in her delivery makes the album that much better. From Florida’s Finest is an amazing album, and I’m honestly surprised this is a debut because of how great it is. If this is the beginning, I can’t wait for her next project and what that’ll sound like. You should give From Florida’s Finest a listen so you can understand exactly where I’m coming from.
Sherie
Speaking of debuts, Sherie dropped her own earlier this year. I think an eight-track album is ambitious, as it leaves no room to flop. However, in the case of this Atlanta singer, eight tracks sufficed. Is it crazy to say Sherie sounds like the roots of Black Noise, like a speakeasy singer? I didn’t know much about her, nor did I see advertising before listening. After listening, I wanted to learn more regarding her background. I got that opportunity on March 6th when Sherie posted this:
Yours Deeply is inspired by the familiar sign-off “Yours Sincerely,” but for me, it’s more than just a phrase. It’s a reflection of my own journey; writing a letter to myself, looking back at the past, and confronting the complexities that shaped me. As I navigate my own story, this project becomes a space where I explore both the weight of what’s behind me and all of what lies ahead. I hope this project not only reveals my own journey toward strength and resilience, but also invites everyone to find and remember their own. Sherie even took the time out of her day to send us a message after highlighting her, which made the hosts of Culture Shock smile.
The future of R&B is bright, and now it’s time to see whether the fanbase will continue having these artists’ backs for this next generation of music.
