Music

Chloe Bailey, “I’m More Than Just R&B – It’s Time to Break the Genre Mold!”

Chloe Bailey has been a star for most of her life. Breaking out as half of the duo Chloe x Halle in 2016, she achieved major success alongside her sister before going solo in 2021. Her debut album garnered praise from fans and critics alike for its musical ambition and eclectic blend of sounds. Despite her efforts to defy easy categorization with her art, Bailey finds herself repeatedly tagged with the label of R&B. She discussed this frustrating situation during a recent interview with Nylon.

Bailey explained that her R&B categorization stems from the color of her skin, not her sound. “Any music I do will easily and quickly be categorized as R&B because I’m a Black woman,” she noted. “If someone who didn’t have my skin tone made the same music, it would be in the pop categories. That’s just the way it’s always been in life.” As Bailey has grown older, her desire to break out of genre constraints has intensified. While she has found chart success, she is now seeking artistic success on her own terms. Bailey cited two singers who managed to shed the R&B label, one of whom is her mentor.

Chloe Bailey admired Beyoncé’s album “Cowboy Carter.” Having signed to the icon’s label in 2016, Bailey had a front-row seat to Beyoncé’s genre experimentation. “I was really proud of Beyoncé doing ‘Cowboy Carter’,” she asserted. “Because Black people originated country music. It’s just showing that possibilities are endless.” Bailey also mentioned Whitney Houston as a Black, female singer who proved that true crossover success is attainable.

However, Bailey isn’t aiming for Houston’s pop or Beyoncé’s country on her new album. She told Nylon that she’s carving out her own genre and musical path, inspired by the sounds of the Caribbean. The outlet cites “calypso, gospel, Afrobeats, and Carnival band music” as influences on her upcoming album, “Trouble In Paradise.” Bailey agreed, describing an overarching theme for the album as “[a] coming-of-age celebration of being a woman and having fun. Not taking life too seriously.” We can’t wait to hear it.

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Hip-Hop

Kays Shares Electrifying Fusion with “PARANOIA”

Kays is heating things with his new song “PARANOIA,” which comes from his EP called FOREVER KAYS. This track mixes Afrobeats with Hip-Hop in a way that’s exciting and fresh, making it enjoyable and thought-provoking at the same time.

From the first beat, “PARANOIA” grabs the listener’s attention with its catchy melodies and strong rhythm. Kays quickly switches between smooth, catchy parts and powerful lyrics, creating a sound that makes you want to move while also making you think. The production is polished and complex, providing a rich listening experience where every sound — from the beat to the melody — stands out.

The lyrics of “PARANOIA” talk about self-awareness and looking inward, so it’s more than just a fun party song. It has depth and meaning, showing that Kays is not just out for a good time but is also sharing a story. Whether you’re dancing to the music or reflecting on its deeper themes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The music video for “PARANOIA” adds even more impact. It’s visually impressive, and the cinematic quality matches the song’s energy. Each scene is carefully crafted, bringing viewers further into Kays’s artistic idea.

With growing popularity, “PARANOIA” is a song you should add to your playlist. It shows Kays’s rising presence in the music scene. This single should catch your attention if you enjoy unique tracks offering more than just rhythm.

Kays is making a statement. “PARANOIA” proves that mixing Afrobeats and Hip-Hop can sound fantastic together.

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Indie

J0VANNA delivers ‘Aphrodite,’ a Self-Love Anthem We All Deserve

With her new single “Aphrodite,” a genre-bending cocktail of R&B, pop, and soul, J0VANNA steps boldly into the spotlight. This song is a reminder that perfection is in authenticity. A title referencing the Greek goddess of love and beauty, “Aphrodite,” challenges society’s expectations and embraces the woman in us all.

Inspired by J0VANNA’s journey, the song goes deep into the pressures of social media — a landscape that is easily consumed with filtered façades and unattainable ideals. J0VANNA reclaims the narrative through her velvety vocals and uplifting lyrics, flipping vulnerability into a superpower. The beat is sultry but spirited, a liquid blend of soulful groove and pop sensibility that’s both contemporary and timeless.

The crux of “Aphrodite” is its universally soothing message: we are enough. If you can call it that, the chorus swells, and the lyrics unfold as J0VANNA’s voice guides listeners toward self-acceptance, encourages them to discard their insecurities and bask in their legitimacy. It’s uncommon for a track to feel this personal and burn so wide, but “Aphrodite” steps that fine line with grace.

Whether you want a playlist for your self-love journey or must be told beauty transcends societal standards, “Aphrodite” is here. It’s a mantra, an anthem about confidence, a fierce nudge toward owning our beautifully imperfect selves. With “Aphrodite,” J0VANNA solidifies herself as “Ones to watch” but a voice this generation needs. So, crank it up, soak it in, and let the goddess in you out.