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.
Artist Spotlight
“Make America” by Charlotte Morris explores patriotism, compassion, and change through storytelling
In the midst of ongoing conversations about identity, values, and the future of society impacting everyday life, Charlotte Morris responds with “Make America,” a thoughtful release of Americana and folk rooted in reflection, responsibility, and hope. There is only space to think about what patriotism really is and where compassion and accountability fit into the idea of a better nation.
“Make America” is rooted in the rich tradition of American protest folk, infused with the emotional weight of classic storytelling, and still tied to the modern moment. The song talks about national ideals, collective choices, and the gap between the image we have of our country and the reality we experience.
Charlotte Morris has a real vocal presence that fits well in the Americana landscape. She delivers the song with a personal, expressive touch that allows the themes to come through honestly. “Make America,” the first song from a new two-song protest project, points to a new and powerful direction in Morris’ latest artistic chapter. The song speaks to folk music’s power to freeze a moment in time, to challenge our points of view, and to spark dialogue. Charlotte Morris handles a powerful subject and gives a heartfelt performance that makes you think deeply, yet still leaves a door open for hope.
Artist Spotlight
Karen Salicath Jamali unveils “Marys Song,” a soulful journey of faith and love
Karen Salicath Jamali’s acoustic folk track “Marys Song” is a message beyond the artist, but the artistic expression is deeply personal. Built around a rare moment of clarity in the early morning hours, the song has an easy sincerity that makes it feel like every note was played just as it was meant to be.
The production is understated, giving each musical element room to breathe. The approach puts the song’s soothing atmosphere front and center, inviting you into a space of reflection, hope, and quiet reassurance. The song has an artistic identity, born of Karen Salicath Jamali’s decades-long relationship with the figure of Mary. After 30 years of exploring this inspiration through paintings and bronze sculptures, she is taking her creativity to the world of songwriting.
The cover art, taken from one of her original bronze sculptures, further connects her visual and musical worlds, making it a full artistic statement. “Marys Song” by Karen Salicath Jamali is a reminder of comfort, faith, and unconditional love. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to slow down and think and find a peace that’s so hard to find. The result is a beautifully crafted folk offering that shows Karen Salicath Jamali is capable of moving audiences with music and art.
-
Artist Spotlight7 days agoThee Sinseers reaffirm their deep love for classic soul with new release “How Lonely Is Lonely”
-
Artist Spotlight5 days agoThe Mack Real The Knife offers speed and suspense on latest release “Roulette At Rascasse”
-
Artist Spotlight6 days agoSiena Fantini unpacks “laundry list,” an EP that showcases growing up, letting go and finding peace
-
Artist Spotlight5 days agoGHOST FUNK ORCHESTRA harnesses the power of stillness with latest release “Ocotillo”
-
Album Review6 days agoGhost of Panama explores love, loss, and healing across “The Last Food on Earth” album
-
Artist Spotlight13 hours agoLiliya Grot explores time, purpose, and reflection in “SELESTIAL WHISPER. THE BEAM VI. CONFESSION OF ETERNITY”
-
Artist Spotlight13 hours agoKaren Salicath Jamali unveils “Marys Song,” a soulful journey of faith and love
-
Artist Spotlight14 hours agoMikey Jacobs raises the energy with new release “Hardest in Mass”