Music
Jhene Aiko, Kehlani, Summer Walker, And Teyana Taylor Agree That Most Pop Is Just R&B
Getty Image A new virtual roundtable takes on the state of R&B as a genre and the music industry’s various shortcomings. …
2020 has seen many American institutions coming to grips with a number of long-standing traditions with racist roots and determining ways to move forward. Earlier this year, The Grammy Awards and Republic Records both took steps to remove references to “urban” as a placeholder for typically Black-dominated genres of music in response to comments from Billie Eilish, Tyler The Creator, and others.
Now, a group of stars who’ve been leading the way in the recent resurgence of R&B are also pointing out some of the more racially-motivated discrepancies in how the recording industry classifies music. In this month’s Billboard feature, Jhene Aiko, Kehlani, Summer Walker, and Teyana Taylor participated in a virtual roundtable discussion about the state of R&B, talking about its reemergence as a pop-culture force, and how it differs from genres like rap and pop.
During the discussion, Jhene points out exactly the problem with how R&B is treated within the business. “There are different sounds within R&B that I’m seeing reflected in other genres,” she notes. “We’re seeing more rappers singing, being more melodic, doing more love and sexy songs. You probably wouldn’t have heard that from a straight-up rapper back in the day. And now there are traditionally pop artists doing R&B albums, but it’s called pop… I’m like, ‘This is a very ’90s R&B sound, but it’s considered pop.’”
Taylor wonders, “If an actual R&B singer sang what the pop artist sang, would the R&B singer get the same exposure?” while Walker agrees, “Pop gets all the credit, for sure. We’re cute over here when they want to be in their feelings. But when it’s time to get to the money, it’s all about pop.” Teyana clarifies, “We’re not a bunch of bitter, angry R&B chicks complaining either. We want to be honest without coming off feeling a type of way.” Walker feels the double standard “irritates me a little when it comes to radio. It seems the only songs from me that do super good on the radio are those that are more upbeat.”
The discussion also turns to industry colorism, outlets trying to sexualize them at a young age, and the scrutiny that comes with social media. Read the full feature here.
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“The Kids” by Animal Souls stirs timeless reverie on trust and innocence
Imagine the sensation of rediscovering a script enclosed in a bottle, written decades ago, and finding its meaning both haunting and beautiful in its ambiguity. That’s why “The Kids,” the latest single from Animal Souls, feels like a reflective nostalgic treasure of lost sentiments reborn with timely relevance. Penned over three decades prior by the project’s mastermind, Michael Fisher, this song is a tender melodic tribute to the innocence of childhood and the inevitable complexity life brings. Despite the original meaning fading with time, its core message remains strikingly resonant, evoking the purity of beginnings and illustrating how life’s experiences mold our perceptions.
Musically, “The Kids” embodies a sense of gentle storytelling skillfully interwoven through a layered yet tapestry of intimate instrumentation that blends folk, rock, and orchestral influences. True to Animal Souls’ ethos, the arrangement isn’t tied to a single genre, allowing the overarching message of the song to dictate its sonic expression. Michael Fisher’s proficiency as a bassist and production expertise shines brilliantly here, creating a lush, immersive soundscape that benefits from the mastering expertise of Greg Mindorf. The collaboration with talented musicians from Fraser Valley enriches the track with warmth and authenticity, transforming it into a heartfelt dialogue rather than merely a performance.
The song’s delicate equilibrium of vulnerability and wisdom establishes it as a remarkable addition to Animal Souls’ expanding repertoire. It’s the type of track that invites introspection, nudging listeners to reflect on their transitions from innocence to experience.
With “The Kids,” Michael Fisher reaffirms that his late-blooming foray into a full-time musical career was meant to be. The subtle synth swells evoke a nostalgic ambiance, pulling listeners into a hazy, dreamlike recollection of their memories. The gently strummed rhythm juxtaposed with wistful melodies underscores the beauty and fragility inherent in the human experience. Don’t just listen; feel its profound emotional imprint.
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Artist Spotlight
TaniA Kyllikki shares an energetically inspiring anthem in her new single, “Feel Good Vibes”
“Feel Good Vibes,” composed by TaniA Kyllikki, represents a vibrant anthem that encapsulates resilience, celebration, positivity, and mindfulness themes. This work not only commands attention but also evokes a profound emotional response. The latest single offers a refreshing auditory experience that resonates with nostalgia while achieving a contemporary flair by seamlessly integrating elements of pop, house, dance, and traditional influences. The thumping bass and crisp drum beats that characterize the initial measures effectively engage listeners, drawing them into an exhilarating musical journey.
The opening verses establish a bold rhythmic foundation as Kyllikki articulates her mission with unwavering confidence, complemented by an 80s-inspired groove. The second chorus marks a significant elevation in the song’s energy, presenting a dynamic blend of dance and house elements that render it nearly impossible for listeners to remain stationary. The intertwining of synthesizers, arpeggios, and pads envelops the audience in a modern and timeless soundscape.
Kyllikki further distinguishes herself by introducing a playful rap segment, which infuses the composition with renewed vigor and highlights her artistic versatility. When listeners anticipate the song’s climax, she delivers an awe-inspiring vocal finale, showcasing her ability to navigate robust, emotive scales with remarkable skill.
The lyrics are a compelling mantra encouraging embracing life’s positive experiences, inspiring listeners to “LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE.” Whether dancing in a private space or driving with the windows down, “Feel Good Vibes” fulfills its promise, uplifting and invigorating the audience.
Produced by Rynellton and serving as the third single from her forthcoming album, ‘FREE SPIRITED,’ TaniA Kyllikki aptly demonstrates that positivity is perpetually relevant. Therefore, one is encouraged to engage with this work, allowing oneself to absorb its uplifting essence.
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