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.
Artist Spotlight
Donna Dafi unveils a fearless pop power move on latest release “Primadonna”
Donna Dafi’s latest release, “Primadonna,” is an upbeat pop song with beautiful visuals and strong, catchy beats. The track is meant to appeal to people who want to be close to others and feel comfortable. It shows how exciting it is to learn more about yourself and how freeing it is to accept your strength fully. “Primadonna” is clear, purposeful, and very charming from the first beat.
The single, on the Female Pop, Pop Rising, and Viral playlists, has a polished, new, modern, and emotionally powerful sound. Donna Dafi’s method is both complicated and useful, making a sound space where empowerment and accessibility come together. The song has a happy sound that makes people feel good about themselves and lets them stop needing other people’s approval. “Primadonna” is not an attack, it’s a realization that you can love and feel deeply without losing yourself, a sentiment that speaks to today’s generation looking for authenticity in music and life.
The release is especially interesting because it can make you feel both strong and weak at the same time. The song is fun and energetic, but it also carries a personal message that makes it more than just a pop song. It is a song for people learning to speak up for themselves, set limits, and shine in their own way. The dynamic production adds to this message by blending smooth pop sounds with catchy hooks that stick in your head long after the song ends.
“Primadonna” is a song by Donna Dafi that demonstrates how sound can tell a story. The single, with its empowering theme, catchy beat, and polished pop sound, is a sign of personal growth and self-confidence. This song demands attention and encourages people to be confident and step boldly into the spotlight.
Connect with Donna Dafi on Spotify || Instagram || Youtube || Tiktok
Artist Spotlight
Eylsia turns inner struggle into radiance with latest release “Desert Learns to Shine”
Eylsia’s powerful new single, “Desert Learns to Shine,” is an emotionally charged anthem about strength, self-confidence, and the quiet strength needed to rise above difficult situations. The song combines a personal confession and a triumphant declaration, capturing the moment when inner light breaks through emotional darkness.
The track is mostly about staying strong even when things are tough. Eylsia makes people very aware of themselves and helps them find strength in their weaknesses. The picture of the desert learning to shine is both clear and meaningful. It reminds us that even the most barren places can grow when they are full of hope and bravery.
This release is especially interesting because it makes you think. Eylsia thinks that listening to her inner voice and letting it guide her will make her stronger. This deep conversation makes the song feel very personal, prompting people to think, breathe, and reconnect with their feelings. The result is a song that feels personal yet easy for everyone to relate to.
The song is full of feeling, and each part shows what it’s like to get over past pain. Eylsia turns tears into things that help you grow and sadness into progress. “Desert Learns to Shine” has a deep emotional impact because it is so real. This one tells you how to keep going and find yourself. Eylsia reminds us that even when things are calm, we are getting stronger. “Desert Learns to Shine” isn’t just a song, it’s a message of hope, strength, and the power of believing in yourself.
Connect with Elysia on Spotify || Facebook || Youtube || Instagram || Tiktok
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