Black Musicians You Should Be Listening to Right Now
Black History Month may have wrapped up last week, but there are always aspects of Black culture to celebrate. Today, we are looking into Black music and the artists behind it. We’ve curated a list of classics ranging from Kendrick Lamar to Marvin Gaye, as well as a few of our favorite underground artists. The common denominator between all of these artists is the impact their music holds.
The Classics
From some of your favorite artists, here is a compiled list of songs that have strong messages of empowerment and/or touch on racial injustice.
“This is America” - Childish Gambino
“BLACK PARADE” - Beyoncé
“DNA” - Kendrick Lamar
“I Can’t Breathe” - H.E.R.
“Lockdown” - Anderson .Paak
“Get Up, Stand Up” - Bob Marley & The Wailers
“I Ain’t Got Time!” - Tyler, The Creator
“Alright” - Kendrick Lamar
“Good Days” - SZA
“What’s Going On” - Marvin Gaye
“Talkin’ Bout a Revolution” - Tracy Chapman
“Be Free” - J. Cole
“Glory” - Common ft John Legend
“Element” - Kendrick Lamar
“A Change is Gonna Come” - Sam Cooke
“Say it Loud, I’m Black and I’m Proud” - James Brown
“Inner City Blues” - Marvin Gaye
“Dream a Little Dream of Me”- Ella Fitzgerald
“The Story of O.J.” - Jay-Z
Hidden Gems
Looking to find a small Black artist to support? We’ve got you. Here are a few of our current faves!
Local artists
Miloe
Miloe is from our town, a local artist that is on the come up- here are some songs to daydream to and enjoy throughout your day!
Our picks:
“Change Your Mind”
“Everything (That Should Go)”
Endio
Endio is a local artist as well, and even a student here at the U! His music has inspiration from The Strokes to Childish Gambino. His music is totally worth the support, and his album just debuted in February!
Our picks:
“Names (Ain’t Changed)”
“U Don’t Have 2 Call”
For the indie kids
Serena Isioma
You may have heard her song “Sensitive” go viral on TikTok, but Isioma has an extremely wide range of music perfect for any mood and incorporates a lot of really important topics.
Our picks:
“Cookout” manages to unveil heavy themes in a fun, energetic way.
“Valentina” is a short, sweet slow song that you’re sure to enjoy.
Choker
Choker is a master at poetic songwriting. If you like Daniel Caesar or Frank Ocean (let’s be real, who doesn’t like Frank Ocean?), you’re almost guaranteed to fall in love with Choker.
Our picks:
“Drift” will become your new go-to song for late night drives.
“Lily” is a fun and lighthearted song that has an extremely unique beat to it.
“Lucky” beautifully discusses self discovery and personal growth.
Jelani Aryeh
Aryeh channels a combination of alternative R&B and hip hop sounds while incorporating his own experimental touch.
Our picks:
“Where we go” samples the intro to “Brazil” by Declan McKenna and slows it down into this masterpiece.
“Daunt” is another one of those late-night-drive tunes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy.
“Stella Brown” is Aryeh’s top-streamed song on Spotify, and for good reason. Give it a listen (if you haven’t already).
Blood Orange
Blood Orange is an underrated r&b/indie artist that has collaborated with people we love, like A$AP Rocky and Steve Lacy. After listening to our picks, you’ll be itching for more of his amazing tunes.
Our picks:
“I’m Sorry We Lied”
“Chewing Gum.”
For the rap/R&B lovers:
Mofe
Ever wanted a real “I liked it before it was cool” claim? Mofe. released his first single in 2020 and currently has a mere 874 monthly listeners on Spotify, so if you start listening to this talent now, you’ll be sure to watch him blow up.
Our picks:
“Go With the Flow” is a slow and groovy song.
“Lotto” is a slower song that simultaneously incorporates a fun vibe to it.
“Vest” has a bouncy beat to it that is the perfect background noise for a fun, laid-back night.
Griselda
Griselda is a group that consists of some wild rap artists by the name of Conway the Machine, Benny the Butcher, and Westside Gunn. These East Coast rappers give off heavy 90’s rap vibes, and you should totally check these gems out.
Our picks:
“Liz Loves Luger” by Westside Gunn
“Timeless” by Benny the Butcher ft. Lil Wayne and Big Sean
“Ameenah’s Van” by Conway the Machine
Freddie Gibbs
Gibbs is a rapper that has a Grammy nomination, but is still underrated to the max. He collabs with Griselda a ton, so if you like those songs, check these out.
Our picks:
“Something to Rap About”
“Piñata”
MF DOOM
Gibbs is a rapper that has a Grammy nomination, but is still underrated to the max. He collabs with Griselda a ton, so if you like those songs, check these out.
Our picks:
“Something to Rap About”
“Piñata”
Music is an art form that has the capability to connect people worldwide. It is the common ground and language between various cultures and demographics, and it allows artists to discuss important matters in a way that can reach millions. These are just a few of the many black artists out there that deserve some love. All of us at Golden Mag hope you enjoy :)