So far, the 2024 award session has been the talk of the town (a.k.a. social media). That communal conversation will continue this week as the highly-anticipated Grammys ceremony is set to take place. With Trevor Noah on hosting duty for the evening, viewers and attendees are guaranteed an entertaining event (sorry, Jo Koy). But while the jokes make the night pass smoothly, the Grammys is all about who walks away with the coveted gramophone trophy.
Last year’s ceremony was filled with record-setting moments thanks to Beyoncé. This year’s event could follow suit as acts like SZA and Victoria Monét lead the nomination pack. So, when can you tune into the broadcast?
What Time Do The Grammys 2024 Start?
The 2024 Grammys are scheduled to take place on Sunday, February 4. Music’s biggest names will gather for the revered ceremony at the Crypto Arena in Los Angeles, California. If you aren’t lucky enough to have secured a ticket to the event, you will just have to view it from the comfort of your couch like millions of others via CBS or log onto Paramount+.
The official award ceremony will begin broadcasting at 5 p.m. PT (8 p.m. ET). However, if you’re interested in checking out the fashion looks from the red carpet or pre-show interview, you can tune into the Recording Academy’s YouTube livestream at 3:30 p.m. ET. The pre-show can also be enjoyed on the official Grammys website. Find more information here.
In a glittering kickoff to GRAMMY week, the Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC) hosted an exclusive Music Maker Dinner in collaboration with producers Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis at Delilah in Los Angeles. The star-studded evening brought together industry leaders and celebrated artists, including Jermaine Dupri, Babyface, Flavor Flav, and Victoria Monét.
BMAC Co-Founder and CEO Willie “Prophet” Stiggers set the tone by emphasizing the importance of paying it forward and guiding the next generation. The event also announced the winners of the 2024 BMAC x ASCAP x Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis Music Maker Grant, empowering aspiring Black producers and songwriters with funding and mentorship.
Singer-songwriter Victoria Monét introduced the BMAC x Victoria Monét Music Maker Grant, offering economic empowerment and mentorship opportunities to an emerging Black artist.
The night featured musical surprises, including a quartet performance by Babyface, Flavor Flav, Tank, and Kenny Burns, a sing-along led by Tank, and a tribute to Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. BMAC’s GRAMMY Week events will continue with a Black Media Mixer and conclude with an Economic Justice Summit.
For more information on the Black Music Action Coalition, visit here.
The Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC) has collaborated with 10-time GRAMMY nominee Victoria Monét to unveil the BMAC x Victoria Monét Music Maker Grant. The grant, set to be officially announced at BMAC’s GRAMMY Week Music Maker Dinner on Jan. 31, 2024, will provide $5,000 to support economic empowerment for an emerging Black artist. Additionally, the recipient will gain access to mentorship opportunities and direct career advice from Victoria Monét.
This initiative is aligned with BMAC’s commitment to fostering access, equity, and opportunities for the next generation of Black artists and industry professionals. The BMAC x Victoria Monét Music Maker Grant joins BMAC’s portfolio of impactful grants and empowerment programs, including The Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis Music Maker Grant, BMAC Ernie Paniccioli Music Photojournalism Grant & Celebration Event, and others.
“We are honored to partner with Victoria Monét to uplift a young and deserving Black artist and help further their dreams within the music industry. Her story is one of resilience and perseverance and it is in that spirit we will continue to pay it forward. BMAC’s mission is to create a more equal playing field by breaking down barriers to entry for our community. Our BMAC Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis Music Maker Dinner is a perfect room to celebrate this initiative,” said BMAC Co-Founder, President, and CEO, Willie “Prophet” Stiggers.
“Supporting the next generation of women is crucial as we work towards furthering equality across the board in the music industry,” added BMAC Co-Founder, Caron Veazey. “Partnering with an iconic artist and role model like Victoria Monét through the Music Maker Grant will help us to impact a future star by setting them up on a path to success. We are looking forward to receiving the submissions and uncovering a deserving artist!”
“I met Victoria years ago as a songwriter and to see where her gifts have brought her to today has been an incredible journey to watch. As a co-founder of BMAC, I am proud to honor her work with establishing the BMAC-Victoria Monét Music Maker Grant and have the opportunity to work together to uplift the next generation of our industry,” said BMAC Co-Founder, Shawn Holiday.
The grant’s recipient will be selected through a nationwide search facilitated by BMAC, with further details to be shared in the coming weeks. To learn more about the Black Music Action Coalition and its initiatives, visit BMAC’s official website.
The landscape of R&B is changing, but producer Jamil Pierce, better known as Deputy, has his finger on the pulse. With credits on tracks by Mikhala Jené, Rihanna, and Ari Lennox, the prolific artist has helped craft a multitude of alternative R&B and melodic hip-hop hits.
This year, Deputy is nominated for two Grammys — Record Of The Year and Best R&B Song, for his work on Victoria Monét’s “On My Mama.” As his resume holds, Deputy has become a go-to collaborator for women in R&B.
Deputy’s love of music traces back to his childhood in Brooklyn, where his days were spent inside his grandmother’s and great-grandmother’s homes, soundtracked by soap operas, and “easy listening” radio stations. Some of his favorites included Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross, The BeeGees, Phil Collins, Cyndi Lauper, and Madonna.
“I didn’t know half of what they were talking about at the time,” says Deputy. “But the melodies were pretty cool. As a kid, it just developed this love for music.”
As a young talent with an old soul, Deputy always sought to create songs with which, he could form an emotional connection. Having worked on the business side and the creative side of the industry, Deputy has covered his bases, but still has visions for the future of music.
We catch up with Deputy shortly before the Grammys to discuss the current realm of music, and how one of the biggest hits of the past year came together.
One of your first experiences in the industry was working as an intern at JIVE Records. What would you say is the most important thing you’ve learned while working on the business side?
Hits keep the lights on. I say that because I was able to see the artists, at that time, come to the office and see how the energy of everyone who worked there changed. Once those artists came into the office, I just noticed everyone’s energy was different. “Oh, Justin Timberlake is here” or “Oh, Britney Spears is here.” Just seeing that made me realize hits make the building move.
You signed to Roc Nation in 2009 as a producer. What made you want to realign your focus from the business side to the creative side?
I did my internship at Jive Records because it was my way to get into the industry. My goal was always to be a music producer. I didn’t know anyone in the industry to get my feet in the door. Once I quit my job at Morgan Stanley and I found that internship, it was just my point of entry into the industry. The purpose is always to be a music producer.
Having worked with Ari Lennox, Rihanna, and Victoria Monét, how do you feel about the current landscape of R&B?
A lot of my R&B songs are with women, but having a balance with a male presence would be fire to just, add something new. I think for me, I would like to inject something new. A new sound, something that’s disruptive and urgent. I love what we’ve done with the genre so far. And I think that we’re at a space right now, where we can add something else to elevate something different.
I get what you’re saying. You don’t necessarily imagine a male-dominated landscape, but you want to bring back that era of the male singers crying in the desert, like in the ‘90s
Yes. 100%. Like, there were a lot of men who showed vulnerability. They showed vulnerability within the music. People wanted things. No one wants anything anymore. Back then, people cried for things, like, “I cry for you. I’ll give you the stars, and moon, and whatever.”
How did you first connect with Victoria Monét?
I first met her a few years ago at a random studio session. I was like, ‘Hey, what’s up? I’m Dep” A few years after that, her manager reached out to me for a session. It was somewhat of a random reach out because I didn’t really know her manager like that. Our very first session was for [the title track to Monét’s 2020 EP] Jaguar, which sparked the whole Jaguar era. But yeah, it was just basically her manager reaching out, saying, “Hey, would you like to do a session with Victoria?” Knowing who she is, and how crazy her pen is, I definitely said “Yeah, let’s do it.” That one reach-out turned into this amazing moment four years later.
Part of the catchiness of “On My Mama” is that Chalie Boy sample. And me, being from Dallas, the original song, “I Look Good,” was always in rotation. So I’ve gotta ask, how did you end up using this sample?
Victoria was writing her verses, and as she’s writing, I’m in my head too. At this point, the beat is the beat is done and it’s just really left for her to do the writing. So, I’m just there chilling, while she writes and she starts singing the verse, so in my mind, I’m like, “Oh my god, this is crazy.” At the same time, I’m hearing “On my mama, on my hood.” Then I’m like, “Yo, Vic, it would be dope if we use [the sample]. I could see her looking at me, and I’m like “We need to do this.” Her genius after that was pretty much just taking the song and interpolating it into her own way. But it really just came off of me just vibing with the track while Victoria was writing.
What was your reaction when you learned the song was nominated for two Grammys?
The day the nominations came out, I was still sleeping. My phone was blowing up, and I didn’t understand why my phone was blowing up. And bro, I was really tired, and I was ignoring the calls. So when I finally realized why everyone kept calling me, it was definitely a surprising moment. I felt extremely grateful. I felt excited. I felt acknowledged. Not only for me, but for Victoria herself, just understanding her journey as a songwriter and as an artist. Seeing her get her flowers was an acknowledgment that she deserved. I didn’t even know the nominations were happening that morning, but it was a grateful feeling for sure.
What do you think is the biggest issue artists are facing today?
Social media, I think, on several levels. Some artists are extremely talented, but they’re not social media savvy. And we’re now in a climate where your personality and your activity on social media precedes everything that you do with your music. So now. you’re known for your antics, you’re known for your colorful personality outside of the music. And some artists that are really talented, they don’t have that other side of the brain working for them where they can do both. So I feel like some artists don’t get a chance to benefit from being amazing artists that the world knows because they don’t really have the personality or they haven’t yet figured out how to be social media savvy.
On the flip side of that, I feel like the artists that are social media savvy, I feel like some of them might lean too much on social media, in terms of the engagement that they get, and may not realize that sometimes that’s not enough. When it’s time to go on tour, your tickets might not be selling as much as you thought, because your social media tells you one thing, but when it’s time to sell tickets, it’s a whole different story. I think social media in some ways affects the artists and if an artist is able to do both, then great. But it can be misleading and it can be a tool. You just have to understand the different pitfalls that come with that.
“On My Mama” has proven to be a viral hit, in both its audio and its visual form. Which avenue do you think is the most valuable for artist? Spotify? YouTube? TikTok? Or something else?
A lot of songs are discovered through TikTok. And it’s crazy, because your song could come out today, and somehow, someway, somebody does something funny a year from now, or two years from now, with that same song, and a challenge or whatever the cool thing is at that point. TikTok can allow you to have a resurgence, even if the song came out two years ago. So I feel like TikTok is probably one of the platforms that allow a lot of discovery to happen for artists and their songs.
What are you most looking forward to with Grammy season?
As of right now, it’s a lot of anxiety — a lot of great anxiety. But I mean, I’m just looking forward to just being in a space with peers that I look up to, and peers that are my friends. And just enjoying the moment with them. And being acknowledged for all the hard work and all of the years that I’ve put into my craft and getting to this level. To be a part of such a prestigious award, like Record Of The Year, just getting that acknowledgment, I want to live in that moment, and I want to enjoy it, and I want to be present.
Victoria Monét is having a very sweet new year, after one of her heroes, Anita Baker, responded to a post she made back in 2022. “I wanna make a classic love song that Anita Baker would be proud of,” Monét posted at the time.
I wanna make a classic love song that Anita Baker would be proud of
“You’ve already done it,” Baker now added, giving some love to Monét’s 2023 hit. “‘How Does It Feel’ is a melodic masterpiece. Congratulations on all your well deserved nominations & accolades & keeping R&B in your world/your generation.”
You’ve Already Done it. @VictoriaMonet By Using *ALL of Your Gifts. *How does it feel* is A Melodic Masterpiece. CONGRATULATIONS on ALL your, well deserved Nominations & Accolades & Keeping R&B in Your World/Your Generation ABXOhttps://t.co/u1eiwr1lE8
After getting the reply, Monét expressed her love for Baker right back.
“This is such an honor and a dream come true!!!” she responded. “My gratitude for you and your art has always been immense and now to speak to you through mine feels so golden!!
“I love you to the stars and I thank you for these flowers! I’m in awe. Hope to hug you soon,” Monét added.
WOW!! This is such an honor and a dream come true!!! My gratitude for you and your art has always been immense and now to speak to you through mine feels so golden!! I love you to the stars and I thank you for these flowers! I’m in awe hope to hug you soon https://t.co/6rd77T2c4S
Monét dropped her debut studio album, Jaguar II, back in August. By November, the record received seven Grammy nominations, including Best R&B Album and Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical. She is also a contender for Best New Artist when the awards ceremony takes place on February 4.
Check out Victoria Monét and Anita Baker’s mutual love posts above.
R&B icon Anita Baker recently gave up and coming singer Victoria Monét her stamp of approval on social media and fans are loving the bridge of gap between the two queens. Victoria wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter) “I wanna make a classic love song that Anita Baker would be proud of…” and the legend responded. Anita replied:
You’ve Already Done it. @VictoriaMonet By Using *ALL of Your Gifts. *How does it feel* is A Melodic Masterpiece. CONGRATULATIONS on ALL your, well deserved Nominations & Accolades & Keeping R&B in Your World/Your Generation ABXO
Watching You Manifest Your Dreams, Is Truly, A Beautiful Thing Never stop Creating ENJOY ABXO
Victoria responded:
WOW!! This is such an honor and a dream come true!!! My gratitude for you and your art has always been immense and now to speak to you through mine feels so golden!! I love you to the stars and I thank you for these flowers! I’m in awe hope to hug you soon
You’ve Already Done it. @VictoriaMonet By Using *ALL of Your Gifts. *How does it feel* is A Melodic Masterpiece. CONGRATULATIONS on ALL your, well deserved Nominations & Accolades & Keeping R&B in Your World/Your Generation ABXOhttps://t.co/u1eiwr1lE8
Last year, Tyla had one of the biggest R&B hits of the year. She came out of nowhere after opening for Chris Brown on his European tour and her song “Water” took off on TikTok. Eventually, it transitioned into radio and streaming success as well. The song peaked at number 10 on the Hot 100 late last year and is still hovering on the charts this week. Now in a new video fellow R&B darling Teyana Taylor shows her love for the song.
In a clip making the rounds online Taylor and Tyla show off their dance moves while vibing to the song. Surprisingly, some fans in the comments seem to be past “Water.” “Sorry but I’m tired of the song! Left it on 2023! Bless her tho & I love some Teyana,” one of the top comments on the post reads. “Man I’m tired of this d*mn song,” another commenter agreed. Check out the full video and the variety of fan reactions in the comments below.
This isn’t even the first time that Teyana Taylor has partied with a breakthrough R&B star recently. Victoria Monet also had a breakthrough moment earlier this year with her song “On My Mama.” While the track wasn’t quite as much of a smash hit as “Water” it still landed on the Hot 100 for more than a month. She was spotted dancing alongside Taylor and Janelle Monae in a video a few weeks ago.
Back in September, rumors first began to emerge that Teyana Taylor and Iman Shumpert could be getting divorced. Since then it’s been an avalanche of drama surrounding the pair. While the pair have officially confirmed their split, they haven’t confirmed why. It all began when a girl came forward claiming to be Shumpert’s side-chick. It’s still unclear just how much legitimacy there is behind her claims. What do you think of the new clip of Teyana Taylor and Tyla dancing to Tyla’s 2023 smash-hit “Water?” Let us know in the comment section below.
In 2023, the hip-hop ladies took the spotlight by storm. From music icons like Beyoncé to rising stars such as TiaCorine and Latto, these women have redefined the music landscape with their chart-topping hits, groundbreaking performances, and unapologetic artistry. Get inspired and empowered as SOHH delves into the top 23 Females of 2023 –Single Ladies Edition.
Top 23 Females of 2023: SOHH’s Single Ladies Edition
1. The Reign of Queen Bey
Queen Bey held the world captive in 2023 with her record-breaking Renaissance Tour and accompanying film. The iconic artist declared the “Renaissance” year this year, leaving a lasting mark with her mesmerizing performances and thought-provoking visual storytelling.
2. TiaCorinne: Unapologetic Bursting Into The Rap Scene
The rap scene witnessed the rise of TiaCorinne in 2023, as she caught the attention of many with her viral hit, “Freaky T.” This anime-themed rapper showcased her versatility and range in her music, captivating listeners with her distinctive style and raw lyricism.
3. Latto’s Stellar Year
Latto experienced a breakout year in 2023, following the release of her hit song “Put It On Da Floor.”
Her infectious track, featuring a remix with Cardi B, skyrocketed to the top of the charts, solidifying Latto’s status as a rising star in the rap industry. With her undeniable talent and captivating presence, Latto has cemented her place as one of the prominent voices in music today.
4. Doja Cat: Breaking Boundaries
Doja Cat made waves in 2023 with her highly anticipated album, Scarlet, garnering acclaim for its unique sound and infectious tracks.
The “Juicy” rapper’s song “Paint The Town Red,” broke the rap drought on the charts, proving her versatility and knack for delivering chart-topping hits. Additionally, Doja announced her first-ever headlining tour, The Scarlet Tour, further showcasing her artistic vision and captivating stage presence.
5. Lady London: An Undeniable Flow
After gaining viral fame with her “Pop Ya Shit Freestyle,” Lady London continued to captivate listeners with her undeniable flow and creativity in 2023.
6. Victoria Monét: From Songwriter To Solo Star
Victoria Monét emerged as a force to be reckoned with in 2023, transitioning from a talented songwriter to a solo artist with her album Jaguar 2.
The singer showcased her ability to captivate listeners with her soulful vocals and introspective lyrics, earning Grammy recognition for the first time. With a sold-out tour and undeniable artistry, the “On My Mama” singer proved that she has officially arrived as a prominent solo artist.
7. MaiyaTheDon: Making A Mark
Best known for her hit song “TELFY,” MaiyaTheDon continued her upward trajectory in the rap scene in 2023. The rapper’s debut mixtape, “Hot Commodity,” showcased her versatility and unique style, garnering attention and even a billboard promotion in Times Square.
8. Cardi B: Endless Versatility
Cardi B continued her unstoppable momentum in 2023, venturing into various opportunities beyond music.
Securing an endorsement with Beats By Dre, the “Up” rapper proved her business savvy while continuing to create impactful music. Her highly-anticipated collaboration with Megan Thee Stallion became an instant hit, further solidifying Cardi’s position as a powerhouse in the industry.
9. Sexyy Red’s Chart-Topping Reign
Hailing from St. Louis, Sexyy Reddominated the hip-hop community in 2023 with her chart-topping hits like “Poundtown,” “Skeeyee,” and “Shake Yo Dreads.” The rapper’s undeniably catchy tracks and unapologetic style propelled her to new heights, leading to her first-ever headlining tour, the Hood Hottest Princess Tour.
10. Ice Spice: Phenomenon in the Making
Ice Spice emerged as a phenomenon in 2023, capturing the hearts of fans with hit after hit. From “Munch” to “Princess Diana,” the 22-year-old rapper showcased her star power and versatility, even landing a brand deal with Dunkin’ Donuts. Her inclusion on the soundtrack of the blockbuster film Barbie further solidified her role as an up-and-coming rap sensation.
11. Halle Bailey: An Emerging Star
Halle Bailey‘s breakout solo career in 2023 was nothing short of phenomenal.
From her enchanting performance in The Little Mermaid, which dominated the box office, to her role in The Color Purple, Halle showcased her immense talent and emerging star power.
The singer-actress received Grammy recognition as a solo artist and became a rising star to watch closely.
12. Nicki Minaj Returns
Nicki Minaj returned to the rap game in 2023 with her highly anticipated album, Pink Friday 2.
The iconic rapper stunned fans with her captivating lyrics and infectious beats, making history with the album’s release in December. The “FTCU” rapper’s undeniable talent and influence continued to cement her status as one of the industry’s most influential figures.
Taking the stage at the State Farm Stadium for the Super Bowl LVII Halftime Show on Feb.12, 2023, Rihanna rocked the stage in a spectacular 13-minute set.
The Bajan megastar, not only made history as a headline performer at the Super Bowl Halftime Show, but she also confirmed her second pregnancy during her performance. Reports later surfaced that the FENTY mogul had given birth to her second baby boy, Riot Rose Mayers, with her partner and rapper,A$AP Rocky.
Alongside her jaw-dropping stage presence, Rihanna’s Super Bowl performance had a significant impact on her music. Following her show, her streaming numbers soared by over 600%, solidifying her status as the music mogul many grew to love.
14. Monaleo’s Musical Prowess
The “Pink Princess” Monaleo shone brightly in 2023, successfully balancing motherhood and her rap career. With consistent releases and an impressive headlining tour, Monaleo’s empowering presence and musical prowess captured the attention of fans worldwide.
15. Chrisean Rock’s Transformation & New Beginnings
Chrisean Rock underwent a transformative journey in 2023, emerging as a musician and a mother. Leaving behind past drama, Rock embraced her new path, showcasing her musical talents and embracing the joy of motherhood.
16. Amari Noelle: From Television To Music
Amari Noelle transitioned from television to music in 2023, making a name for herself as an artist. Recognized by Spotify as “Fresh Finds R&B 2023,” Noelle collaborated with notable artists like Kodie Shane, Kaash Paige, and Jacob Latimore, further solidifying her industry position.
17. Megan Thee Stallion’s Year Of The Cobra
Megan Thee Stallion continued to make waves in 2023, overcoming obstacles and solidifying her position in the music industry.
From her independent artist journey to an iconic performance alongside Beyoncé, the Houston Hottie’s resilience and talent propelled her to new heights, making her one of the year’s most influential and inspiring artists.
18. Kaliii’s Global Publishing Deal
Kaliiisecured a global publishing deal with Warner Chappell Music Group in 2023, paving the way for a promising future in the rap industry. The emerging artist’s undeniable talent and positive outlook showcased her potential for continued success.
19. Coi Leray Turns Heads
Coi Leray showcased her versatility and artistry in 2023, releasing the 6-track EP “Blue Moon” to critical acclaim. Catching the attention of rap icons like Busta Rhymes, Leray collaborated on major projects throughout the year, further solidifying her place in the industry.
20. RAYE’s Successful Solo Journey
British artist RAYE embarked on a solo journey in 2023, garnering recognition for her viral hit “Escapism.” Jimmy Fallon’s Tonight Show showcased the pinnacle of her career, further solidifying her status as a rising star.
20. Lola Brooke On The Rise
Lola Brooke made a remarkable impact in 2023 with her captivating rap career. Celebrating Hip-Hop’s 50th anniversary alongside legendary artists and earning major brand endorsements, the “Don’t Play Wit It” rapper established herself as a force to be reckoned with, representing her New York roots.
21. Ciara’s Comeback
Ciara made a resounding comeback in 2023, delighting fans with her return to music. Collaborating with Chris Brown on their song “How We Roll,” Cici showcased her artistry and welcomed a new addition to her family, further solidifying her place in the industry.
22. Coco Jones’ Chart-Topping Success
Coco Jones embraced her rise to stardom in 2023, delivering consistent hits and earning recognition as “Best New Artist” at the BET Awards. Her platinum-certified single “ICU” propelled her career forward, cementing her status as a Grammy-nominated artist.
23. Flo Milli’s Breakthrough Moments
Flo Milli maintained her consistency and success in 2023, captivating listeners with her unique style and unwavering confidence.
Her latest single, “Never Lose Me,” gained significant streams and is expected to debut on the Billboard Hot 100, marking her first entry on the prestigious chart. Flo Milli embarked on a headlining tour and secured major brand deals, including a recent collaboration with 7-Eleven.
“I have two of them, because at one point I had lost one,” Monét said, “and I was so devastated because I’m sometimes a bit irresponsible. That was the old me, this is the new me, but Ariana felt so bad she got another one.”
But after Monét was gifted the other ring, she made another surprising discovery.
“Then I found the other one,” Monét said. “So she’s like, ‘Just keep both,’ so I have two, and I wear them stacked.”
Considering the fact that Monét has given Grande some of her biggest hits, these rings are certainly well-deserved.
The music industry is experiencing a powerful shift as talented female artists emerge to challenge the male-dominated landscape. In 2024, the stage is set for Victoria Monét, Ayra Starr,Halle Bailey,Alex Vaughn, and Amaarae to make their mark on the music industry.
Females Ready To Dominate 2024
Victoria Monét: Coming In Hot
Victoria Monét’s career has been remarkably upward. From her early days as a Purple Reign member to becoming a sought-after songwriter, the “On My Mama” singer’s journey has been defined by her passion for music.
Her solo career took off in 2023 with a sold-out tour and her first Billboard entry as a solo artist. Monét is poised for even greater success in 2024 with her soulful voice and remarkable songwriting ability.
Ayra Starr: A True Starr
Hailing from Benin, Ayra Starris shaking up the Afrobeats genre with her unique blend of pop-infused sounds.
Drawing inspiration from her Beninese heritage, Starr’s album 19 & Dangerous offers the younger generation a fresh perspective on love, betrayal, and self-affirmation. With her authentic vocal style and compelling songwriting, she is rapidly gaining recognition as a rising star in the music industry.
Alex Vaughn: The Hidden Gem
Alex Vaughn’sjourney from posting covers on YouTube to signing with LVRN Records and releasing her debut EP, The Hurtbook showcases her undeniable talent.
The “I’m Leaving” singer has a smooth R&B sound, combined with relatable lyrics and a touch of comedy, which sets her apart from her peers. Opening for artists like Ari Lennox and Victoria Monét, the “So Be It” artist star continues to rise, positioning her as a leading force in the world of R&B.
Halle Bailey: An Angel In Disguise
Born and raised in Atlanta, Halle Bailey is a multi-talented singer and actress whose talent knows no bounds. Her debut solo single “Angel” reached No. 2 on the Billboard R&B charts, demonstrating her undeniable vocal prowess.
The Little Mermaid actress’s success extends beyond music, as she earned an Oscar nomination for her role as Ariel in the live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid. With her sister Chloe, the duo is set to dominate both as a group and as solo artists in 2024.
Amaarae: The International Superstar
With roots in Africa and the United States, Amaarae is a singer-songwriter who defies genres. Her ability to blend R&B and Afrobeats into her unique sound sets her apart as a remarkable artist.
Recently signed with Concord Music Publishing and in contention for the 2024 Grammy Awards, the “Fountain Baby” singer’s talent and artistry are recognized globally. Her ability to fuse different styles of music showcases her deep appreciation, connection, and understanding of the craft.
Taking Over For The 2-0’s
Speaking of women in music who are making an impact, Netflix has released a docuseries highlighting many women in hip-hop. The series included many big names in the industry; however, fans were shocked when Nicki Minaj and Missy Elliott weren’t mentioned.
Women Of Substance
As the music industry embraces the rise of talented female artists, another wave of rising stars reshapes the hip-hop genre. These artists, such as Lola Brooke, Lady London, Kenzo B, Connie Diiamond, and Billy B, are bringing new life and substance to female rap.
You’ve Already Done it. 
Melodic Masterpiece. CONGRATULATIONS
on ALL your, well deserved Nominations & Accolades & Keeping R&B in Your World/Your Generation
This is such an honor and a dream come true!!! My gratitude for you and your art has always been immense and now to speak to you through mine feels so golden!! I love you to the stars and I thank you for these flowers! I’m in awe 
hope to hug you soon 
Never stop Creating
| 7 songs from 
