30 Black Female Artists You NEED to Check Out in 2019
Originally published December 29, 2018
Some of you may remember our Twitter thread from last year. The thread provided a list of 20 or so Black female artists, hailing from all genres, for you to check out in 2018.
A New Year calls for new music. In a year like 2019, there may be more Black female artists than ever before. Trust us, we know how easy it is to fall into the habit of listening to the same music. So, we're here to help you spice it up!
This year's list features artists old and new ranging from punk to jazz to R&B that we believe are worthy of your attention.
Without further ado... let the magic begin.
1. Tierra Whack
"Best believe I'm gon' sell myself If I just be myself."
In her 15 minute audiovisual album, this Philadelphia artist combines clever hip-hop flows, psychedelic compositions and rhythmic jams paired with lyricism that tiptoes the line between real life and fantasy.
2. Jamila Woods
This Chicago based singer blends soulful vocals and neo-soul beats infused with retro-funk vibes that can best be defined as unapologetic.
3. Lizzo
"I just took a DNA test, turns out I'm 100% that b*tch."
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Lizzo's music is best described as hip-pop that keeps it real and empowers.
4. Nitty Scott
Queer, Afro-Latina, Buddhist, BAD-ASS rapper. She makes music for all Black and brown girls. Her quick and witty bars accompanied by unique hip-hop bars form a pleasant listening experience as Nitty Scott explores the various intersections of her own identity.
5. Jean Deaux
What’ can’t Jean Deaux do? We’ll let you know once we find out. Clever raps, dreamy vocals. This Chicago-based artist has mastered a number of genres, she is original.
6. Seinabo Sey
Deep and rich vocals, eclectic sounds, unapologetic message. This Swedish singer’s music is beautifully empowering.
7. Oshun
New York based R&B duo whose fluid sound perfectly pays homage to their Yoruba namesake. Niambi’s quick-witted lyricism flow seamlessly with Thandi’s gentle melodies.
8. Rico Nasty
If you haven’t heard of Rico Nasty yet, where have you been? Her raps are colorful, she’s in-your-face. Be it over bubble-gum beats, or hard core stripped rhythms; Rico’s raps are pop-punk and raw.
9. Cécile McLorin Salvant
Salvant's vocals are timelessly beautiful. With classic jazz influences ranging from Ella Fitzgerald to Bille Holiday, she effortlessly blends classical elements and jazz compositions.
10. Summer Walker
Sultry vocals over smooth, modern R&B beats. Certain to ease your soul.
11. DAWN
Self described as an "indie king," DAWN's music transcends the restrictions of genres to create something new.
12. Rapsody
Eclectic lend of R&B rhythms and electronic sounds, soulful vocals and quick-witted raps.
13. Ruth B.
This singer/songwriter gained major popularity on the app Vine. Since then she has continued to produce beautiful compositions.
14. Leikeli47
This bold yet mysterious Brooklyn-based rapper may be unseen but is far from unheard. Her raps elicit the power and beauty of Black womanhood while calling attention to the effects of systemic oppression.
15. TeaMarrr
Her name, an acronym for Totally Enthused About Making Really Really Raw art, is the best description of her music. A blend of hip-hop, swing and R&B.
16. Big Joanie
Self described as “Black, feminist, sistah-punk.” This London-based punk group has an electric sound.
17. Mereba
Atlanta-based songstress, Mereba is a master of many trades. She writes, sings, plays guitar, raps and is also a Spelman Alumna. Her music has one foot in the past and the other in the future, a perfect blend of classically beautiful vocals with envelope pushing rhythms
18. UMI
Soothing vocals and simple rhythms that create a wonderfully laid-back vibe.
19. Alice Coltrane
A musician certainly unlike anyone else on this list. Alice Coltrane is far from new; her musical legacy continues to outlive her. Though often overshadowed by her husband John Coltrane, the legendary jazz saxophonist, Alice Coltrane’s jazz compositions are unmatched. A master of the piano, organ harp and a magnificent vocalist; If you aren’t already familiar with her music, you NEED to check it out.
20. Latrice Tau
This New York-based rapper is both raw and melodic. Certain to make your head bop.
21. Junglepussy
Junglepussy's raps are carefree yet conscious. Clever, unparalleled, and grounded in her roots; she is certain to catch your attention and incredibly likely to make you dance.
22. VanJess
Nigerian-American R&B sister duo. Their 90s-infused, modern-electronic filled songs with undeniable afro-beat elements are both fluid and calming yet attention-capturing.
23. Amber Mark
This soulful vocalist produces pop tracks that make you want to listen twice. With rich vocals and house/club beats her music is unmatched.
24. Ré Lxuise
This Atlanta-based R&B singer magically pairs melodic vocals with modern R&B/hip hop beats.
25. Liniker e os Caramelows (Liniker and the Caramelows)
This Brazilian band is rooted in United States’ classic soul blended with Brazilian jazz. Their music music evokes the feeling of sunshine and warmth and all things pleasant. Lead vocalist, Linikier Barros’ voice is controlled and rich. Their energy is unmatched.
26. Eimaral Sol
This Texas-based soul-filled R&B singer is pushing the restrictions of R&B. Sol matches eclectic styles with soothing melodies unlike any other.
27. The MonaLyse
"I speak the Black Girl Gospel."
Detroit-based rapper and poet who will wow you with her freestyles and spoken words alike. She’s unapologetic and doesn’t have time to play and her art reflects that same energy in the absolute best way.
28. Shay Lia
Describes herself as an “Independent song creator with big natural hair and a free spirit.” Her gentle melodies paired with top-notch production results in songs that are a perfect blend of house beats, modern/electronic sounds yet soulful melodies.
29. LION BABE
R&B duo that blends classic R&B melodies and harmonies with somewhat futuristic beats. This Singer/producer duo features the vocals of Jillian Hervey (daughter of Vanessa Williams) and Lucas Goodman’s eclectic production.
30. Olivia Nelson
This 21 year-old London-based singer has rich and soulful vocals that are beautifully supported by contemporary production.
For an easier listening experience, check out our playlist containing songs by each of the artists listed.
Click photo for playlist.
Click photo for playlist.
