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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“NGMB” by Leonie Sherif unveils a soulful anthem of heartbreak roaring with resilience
Leonie Sherif, an emerging artist from East London/Essex, introduces her latest RnB single, “NGMB,” an acronym for ‘Never Get Me Back.’ This track, produced and penned within Sherif’s home studio, encapsulates the profound emotions associated with personal growth following heartbreak. Sherif skillfully fuses electro RnB with alternative beats, drawing inspiration from influential ’90s artists such as Mariah Carey and Toni Braxton while also incorporating the innovative styles of contemporary producers like Timbaland and The Neptunes, resulting in a sound that is distinctly her artistic identity.
“NGMB” is a cathartic release that explores her most intimate experiences. It features a haunting melody enriched by her vocals, which express a compelling blend of strength and vulnerability, inviting listeners into her emotional landscape. The lyrics are imbued with themes of betrayal and resilience, capturing the bittersweet essence of severing connections with individuals who no longer belong in one’s life. This masterful craftwork mirrors the expedition of discovering the fortitude necessary to progress, even when closure appears unattainable.
Notably, “NGMB” distinguishes itself through its authenticity. Sherif confronts her pain directly, fostering a deeper connection with her audience. Her decision to self-produce this track underscores her commitment to her artistic craft and personal healing. Ultimately, “NGMB” conveys a powerful message regarding loss, serving as a testament to empowerment and transforming pain into strength through every note. It emerges as an uplifting anthem for those who have had to walk away from complicated relationships, leaving them feeling stronger and wiser. Leonie Sherif demonstrates her capacity as an artist, sharing necessary narratives that leave listeners anticipating her future endeavors.
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Artist Spotlight
Vanda stirs an electrifying vibe through the waves of grief with her recent single “I Don’t Swim”
Emerging from the profound loss experience, Vanda presents a compelling exploration of sonic and emotional landscapes in her latest single, “I Don’t Swim.” This dynamic anthem embodies a spirit of resilience, offering a rich and introspective blend of dance-infused alternative pop. Vanda’s distinctive vocal delivery skillfully captures the duality of grief with the buoyancy of personal growth, creating a transformative auditory experience for listeners.
Following the passing of her best friend, Vanda’s artistic direction undergoes a notable shift. “I Don’t Swim” replaces the introspective alt-pop elements characteristic of her debut album, ‘Sober In Another Life,’ with an energetic, dance-oriented sound that acknowledges underlying pain rather than concealing it. This composition serves as a paradoxical celebration: it possesses the capacity to elicit tears while simultaneously encouraging listeners to immerse themselves in its infectious rhythm on the dance floor.
The electrifying instrumentation and rhythmic beats provide a lush tapestry of shimmering synthesizers, dynamic percussive elements, and cascading melodies, resulting in a soundscape that feels uplifting and intimately personal. Vanda’s fearless lyricism remains strikingly audacious, featuring vivid imagery and profound vulnerability as she navigates the challenging terrain of grief.
The true artistry lies in Vanda’s vocal performance, where each note represents a delicate equilibrium of strength and fragility. It imparts a captivating emotional energy that resonates beyond the song’s conclusion, reaching those in the healing process. With “I Don’t Swim,” Vanda exemplifies her evolution as both an artist and an individual, adeptly maneuvering through life’s complexities with authenticity and elegance. This track functions as a musical lifeline for those seeking solace amidst adversity. Vanda’s journey articulates a resounding message: while grief may surge like relentless waves, resilience has the potential to inspire joyful celebration.
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CLICK HERE TO STREAM Vanda’s “I Don’t Swim“ on Spotify.
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