Everyone has been stuck at home for a long time. A very long time. While for some, this has meant a resurgence in some of their childhood hobbies, picking up a new skill or baking whatever comes after banana bread, for a lot of music artists, this year has meant time to perfect and refine their craft. What that really translates to, is: new music. With new music, comes new artists and this year alone has welcomed a whole host of emerging talent, specifically when it comes to women of colour and neo-soul.
We've rounded up a list of the most interesting female artists you should be listening to right now, check them out below.
J Grrey
Otherwise, and not often, known as Jennifer Clarke, this South-London born superstar is set to make waves in the next year. She's got an ultra-smooth neo-soul sound and lyrically, she's the equivalent of a modern day Lily Allen [1] because quite frankly, she does not give a f*ck. Catchy beats and sarcastic insults make her tunes the go-to for bad days, good days and all days in between. Perfect for fans of Eliza Doolittle, Jessie J and of course, Lily Allen.
The song to add to your playlist: For Keeps
Arlo Parks
A mere 20 years old and already long listed for BBC's breakthrough act of 2020, Arlo Parks is slowly becoming the next big thing. Famous for songs like "Cola" and "Black Dog", her effortlessly cool vocals are the perfect accompaniment to lockdown walks and Sunday banana bread baking.
The song to add to your playlist: Hurt
Joy Crookes
22 year old Joy Crookes is a neo-soul artist from South London of Bangladeshi-Irish heritage. Known for her incredibly smooth and husky vocals, she's pretty much a mix of Amy Winehouse [2] and Celeste, with possible hints of actual Frank Sinatra? She's known for songs like "Anyone But Me" and "Mother May I Sleep With Danger?", the latter of which could genuinely belong in a Bond film.
The song to add to your playlist: You & Me Song
Hope Tala
West Londoner Hope Tala is a force to be reckoned with. Recently graduating from the University of Bristol with a first class honours, she's already released six singles and two EPs. Not bad for two years' work right? She's the ultimate cool girl, and I must admit, someone I'd love to be friends with. With a sultry indie sound, she's one for fans of Cleo Sol, Raveena and general cool-ness.
The song to add to your playlist: All My Girls Like To Fight
Hamzaa
Full name Malika Hamzaa, this London-born soul singer is exactly what's missing from your current musical rotation. Compared to the likes of Mahalia and Stefflon Don, she's got an incredible vocal range and makes seriously 'raw' music, whilst still managing to have fun as she does it. Not only does she have a killer song list, she also has an impressive story behind her. Having previously been part of Hackney Empire's Artist Development Programme as a teen and working the cloakroom at Brixton Academy after university, her journey to music has been a long and inspiring road.
The song to add to your playlist: Stranded Love