R&B Artists and Groups to Watch in 2024
Here are 20 R&B artists of the class of 2024 you’ll be putting on your playlist.
As we embrace the new year, Shatter the Standards casts a spotlight on a select group of R&B musicians poised to make waves in the months to come. This diverse ensemble of 20 artists, each with their unique flair and genre-spanning influences, stands ready to capture your attention and become a recurring theme in your daily soundscape.
The identity of these artists is distinct and vivid. Some you may have heard, some that are new to you. Give them a try.
Alex Vaughn
A refreshing break is doing wonders for Alex Vaughn. Following the release of her project The Hurtbook in October 2022 and its subsequent deluxe edition, the singer has dedicated much of 2023 to touring as an opening act for Ari Lennox on the age/sex/location tour. Now, at 29 years old, she finds herself with a well-deserved respite. However, it's not all relaxation for Vaughn; her record label, Love Renaissance (LVRN), has organized a creative gathering in Port Antonio. Here, amidst tranquil settings, she collaborates with esteemed music producers like Bryan-Michael Cox to pen new tracks. Vaughn's swift ascent in the R&B genre marks her as one of its most emotionally resonant voices and gifted composers within just a year. Her deeply personal lyrics, coupled with smooth vocal delivery and relatable persona, have garnered her favorable likenesses to iconic singers from the '90s and early aughts.
Aliah Sheffield
Aliah Sheffield, upon her introduction to the Def Jam roster, crafted a debut released last year (These Songs Are for Anyone Sick of Earth) that resonates with heartfelt sincerity. Each song on the project unfolds as a narrative rich in emotional depth, drawing from personal introspection and an unflinching look at human vulnerabilities. The tracks are a reflection of Sheffield’s bold and honest approach to songwriting, addressing the struggles of solitude, the complexities of human error, and the pursuit of genuine self-expression. As Sheffield continues to create, her music promises to be a source of anticipation for those who seek solace and understanding through her melodies and words.
The Amours
Jakiya Ayanna and Shaina Aisha, the sister act known as The Amours, have carved out a unique auditory identity that is distinct and enchanting. Residing in D.C., their vocal ability was nurtured in the pews of their local church, blossoming over time into an impressive display of harmonic sophistication. Both sisters are proud graduates of The Duke Ellington School of The Arts in their hometown. The duo has recently returned from a period of quietude, eager to share their latest creative efforts. With “Don’t Deserve,” their fresh single heralding from the soon-to-be-released EP Around the Way Girl, they mark a significant return to the music scene. This track is graced with their characteristic harmonious arrangements and radiates warmth reminiscent of classic R&B, ensuring that listeners will echo its sentiments with fervor. Behind this new release stands DJ Camper’s production expertise, alongside Harold Lilly Jr., who brings his experience as a lauded songwriter and executive to guide the project.
Annie Tracy
Annie Tracy honed her performing talents with the Opera House Theatre Co., taking center stage in numerous musicals. Her connection to her hometown’s theatrical scene remained strong even as she pursued higher education elsewhere, compelling her return for performances, notably embodying the iconic country singer in “Always, Patsy Cline” during 2019 and 2021. As a vocalist and composer, Tracy channels her considerable vocal strength into crafting pop music imbued with substantial R&B influences. Her track “Times It by Two” exemplifies this fusion, showcasing her dynamic and robust singing style that has roots in her early days on the musical theater stage.
Äyanna
Hailing from the dynamic urban environment of East London, Äyanna enters the R&B music circuit with a vision to secure her position as a leading vocalist. Her background is as eclectic and full of life as the songs she creates, drawing influence from an array of musical traditions such as Reggae, R&B, and Soul. These influences were part of her upbringing in a neighborhood brimming with cultural expressions, complemented by the musical tastes of her English and Jamaican heritage.
The release of “Party Tricks” in 2019 showcased Äyanna’s ability to craft songs that resonate deeply with emotional experiences despite being one of her early compositions. This single not only secured her a spot on BBC’s Music Introducing platform but also garnered attention from prominent figures within the industry at Love Renaissance (LVRN), leading to a record deal and the release of In a Perfect World. With each performance and a new piece of music, Äyanna continues to chart a course toward solidifying her place among the upcoming talents destined for acclaim in R&B.
Coco Jones
Once a Disney child star, Coco Jones has since committed herself to honing her vocal talents with an intensity that mirrors the rigorous routines of world-class performers. Her dedication involves emulating Beyoncé’s demanding practice of combining singing with physical exertion on a treadmill. This staunch commitment to refining her craft has propelled Jones into the spotlight on her terms. Her EP What I Didn’t Tell You received critical acclaim and led to her being honored with five Grammy nominations. The project features the standout ballad “ICU,” which caught enough attention to inspire a remix from none other than Justin Timberlake. Recognition for Jones’s efforts spans several categories: she is in contention for best new artist, as well as accolades across R&B categories, including best album, traditional performance, song, and performance. We hope that her full-length debut is around the corner.
Elmiene
Elmiene’s ascent in the music industry is a narrative of swift and considerable acclaim. The British-Sudanese vocalist has seen his popularity surge at an impressive pace. Insistent on making his mark, he seizes every fleeting opportunity to revel in the growing recognition of his work. With two extended plays under his belt, Elmiene finds himself edging closer to the forefront of the musical vanguard. His contribution extends well beyond transient trends. He represents a reconnection with the foundational elements of R&B that have drifted from the mainstream spotlight. For upcoming artists, he shines as a guiding influence, one whose impact will likely inform future generations within the genre.
Hailey Kilgore
A native of Humble, Texas, and nurtured in Portland, Oregon, Hailey Kilgore has been alluring with her performances from a tender age. Her aspirations have indeed taken flight, as Kilgore’s talents have graced Broadway stages along with television and film screens, affirming her flourishing career in performing arts. The recent venture into music marks a bold new chapter for Kilgore. Her EP Desire and Devotion was released in March of last year, brimming with R&B and pop melodies reminiscent of past eras yet distinctly modern in their execution. After years of honing her craft and capturing hearts with her vocal gift, Kilgore now embraces this fresh pursuit with sparkle.
Jack Freeman
Hailing from Houston, Jack Freeman surfaces as a vocalist whose message is steeped in the essence of love. His style, both sultry and seamless, has been shaped under the influence of illustrious figures such as Donny Hathaway and Chaka Khan. Having admired industry titans, Freeman’s career trajectory has seen him share stages with renowned artists; he has warmed up crowds for soulful powerhouses, including Bilal and John Legend. Furthermore, his performances have complemented shows headlined by Anthony Hamilton, the legendary Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, and so many others. Freeman’s talents caught the attention of Bryan-Michael Cox, a close collaborator of Jermaine Dupri and a multi-hyphenate with GRAMMY accolades to his name. The two have joined forces creatively, and anticipation builds for Freeman’s forthcoming album, Nina, which promises to be a showcase of their synergistic efforts.
Jai’Len Josey
At the age of 25, Jai’Len Josey has already carved a distinctive path in the world of music and performance. Hailing from Atlanta, she found herself immersed in the vibrant beats of hip-hop and the smooth rhythms of R&B from an early age. This rich musical environment helped shape her artistic voice, with influences from pop melodies infused with the raw energy of live soul performances. Fast forward to 2021, and Josey celebrated a significant achievement as a songwriter, contributing to Ari Lennox’s hit “Pressure,” which soared to the top spot on Billboard’s Adult R&B AirPlay chart. Her collaboration with esteemed creatives such as Jermaine Dupri, Bryan-Michael Cox, and Johnta Austin led to the track receiving Gold certification from the RIAA. In her latest project, Southern Delicacy, released under Def Jam last year, Josey offers a collection that seamlessly blends personal storytelling with lush orchestral backdrops. The EP showcases her ability to convey heartfelt narratives of ambition and romantic yearnings through a series of tracks that exude both intimacy and grandeur.
Khamari
With just a single project released, Boston’s own Khamari has captured the attention of R&B fans, amassing millions of streams and headlining shows. His debut release, A Brief Nirvana, dropped in May, painting vivid narratives of love lost, the search for meaning, and profound personal growth found in moments of vulnerability. Khamari’s vocal delivery combines both the sharpness of a thunderbolt and the gentleness of sweetened syrup, with his narrative style enveloping you in the raw emotions he expresses through his music. The anticipation surrounding his future contributions to R&B is undeniable, as his introductory work has already left an impressive impact on the genre.
LAYA
Residing in Staten Island, vocalist LAYA has carved a base for herself in the R&B genre with her atmospheric and minimalist style. Her music, while nodding respectfully to 1990s influences, is unmistakably forward-looking. The year 2020 saw the release of “Sailor Moon,” a dreamy and languid single that captured attention and paved the way for her Warner Records partnership. This collaboration bore fruit in 2022 with the release of Um, Hello, an EP that showcased LAYA’s evolving sound. Not one to rest on her laurels, LAYA followed up in 2023 with the more focused offering Bet That. As tracks like “F’d Up” and “Need 2 Know” continue to garner heavy rotation, there is growing anticipation around what creative directions she will explore next. With an eye on the future, enthusiasts and critics alike are eager to discover what LAYA is preparing for 2024.
Lekan
From Columbus, Ohio, Lekan infuses the contemporary music scene with a distinctive sound that bridges generations and styles. His robust stature is as commanding on stage as his velvety baritone, which delivers lyrics brimming with emotion and ardor. Lekan’s musical creations draw inspiration from the foundational roots of R&B while artfully incorporating elements from various other periods and genres. His work harmoniously blends soulful melodies with modern pop sensibilities and the raw energy of trap, crafting a sound that is both refreshing and deeply connected to musical traditions.
Leon Thomas
Leon Thomas, once a familiar face on the Nickelodeon series Victorious, sharing the screen with Ariana Grande, may soon add ‘Grammy winner’ to his credentials. His collaborative efforts on SZA’s widely celebrated track “Snooze” have positioned it as a frontrunner in the race for Best R&B Song—a testament to his belief in manifestation and his dedication to honing his craft. Alongside Khristopher Riddick-Tynes as part of The Rascals, Thomas has shaped sounds for an impressive roster of artists, including Drake, Post Malone, and Chris Brown. His work extends to talents like Zendaya, Jack Harlow, Meghan Trainor, Toni Braxton, and Ty Dolla $ign, showcasing versatility and a keen ear for production. The list continues with 6LACK, Ella Mai, Kehlani, Giveon, Jessie Reyez, and not least, the one and only Babyface, who counts among Thomas’s mentors. In August last year, he finally unleashed his debut album, Electric Dusk, which became one of the sleepers, and it’s only up from here.
Natanya
Natanya from North London has already carved out a niche for herself in the music industry with her debut EP, Sorrow at Sunrise. This young producer, singer-songwriter, and instrumentalist captivates with an authentic portrayal of “real-life stories frozen in time,” delivering them through unique phrasing and poetic lyrics. Her experimental production layers add depth to each track, distinguishing her as a notable figure in the musical domain. She did not hesitate to reveal the depths of her creativity in this initial extended play. Although her lyrics are drawn from deeply personal experiences, she openly shares her work, inviting us into her introspective world. Through this openness and her distinctive style, Natanya is rapidly becoming a prominent voice worth following.
No Guidnce
The dynamic group from London, No Guidnce, has revitalized a classic genre with a modern flair. Capturing the attention of an expansive TikTok following in 2021, their performances—unaccompanied by instruments and set against the naturally pulsating acoustics of a car park—garnered them significant online acclaim. These renditions led to the release of their own material in 2023. As they step onto the scene, R&B enjoys a resurgence in both critical acclaim and commercial triumph, underscored by its recognition at the Brit Awards with a dedicated category—a nod to the genre’s current vibrancy.
October London
From South Bend, Indiana, emerges October London, an artist whose work in the R&B genre is marked by soul-stirring vocal delivery and the poetic precision of his lyrics. Upon joining forces with Death Row Records, a label synonymous with Snoop Dogg’s influential legacy, in 2016, London captured attention within the musical domain. One of his recent offerings, The Rebirth of Marvin, not only underscores his unique artistic identity but also invites parallels to the esteemed Marvin Gaye, reflecting a deep connection to the roots of soul music. October London’s ascent reflects his ability to convey profound emotions through his singing and to create vivid narratives with his words. As he forges his path in the industry, his work resonates deeply with those who appreciate the fusion of storytelling and melody that characterizes enduring R&B music.
Saint Harison
Hailing from a family where melodies were ever-present, Saint Harison was nurtured among music heads who revered iconic vocalists such as Whitney Houston. This environment sowed the seeds of his musical inclinations, leading him to admire the raw expression found in the works of renowned figures like Amy Winehouse. Although initially he envisioned a career under the bright lights of London’s West End, an awakening during his university years redirected his aspirations towards the recording industry.
Saint Harison’s initial steps into the spotlight came through unadorned renditions of songs by Billie Eilish, Frank Ocean, and Jazmine Sullivan shared across online platforms. These covers marked the beginning of what would soon become a rapidly ascending path in music. His debut EP further solidified his position as one to watch, showcasing a blend of influences and an ability to captivate with authenticity.
Today, Saint Harison stands at an exciting juncture. With a year that has seen remarkable achievements, his appetite for success only grows. Behind the scenes, new tracks are taking shape, ready to join an already diverse collection awaiting release. Meanwhile, his digital presence continues to expand; a growing legion of TikTok supporters and Spotify listeners bear witness to his evolving sound. It is clear that for Saint Harison, these accomplishments are merely the prologue to a promising career in music.
TA Thomas
TA Thomas honed his craft on the piano within the walls of his community church. Nurtured by familial support to cultivate his burgeoning talent, he soon graced the stages at local showcases and was swept up in a tour with the acclaimed James Fortune and Fiya. Transitioning from his role in the R&B ensemble Next Town Down, Thomas embraced the spotlight as a solo artist with his introductory EP, Caught Between 2 Worlds, crafted under the guidance of producer Camper. This work allowed him to unfurl his vocal deftness, steeped in both passion and Southern elegance, offering an honest expression of his art.
UNA MIA
The rise of UNA MIA, an alt-pop R&B artist hailing from Toronto, marks a new chapter in the Canadian music scene. Her performance on COLORxSTUDIOS of “Lose You” mesmerizes with its blend of smooth vocals and compelling lyrics, set against the backdrop of rich R&B melodies. The cultural background of her youth, interlaced with Balkan folk tunes and the soulful echoes of Etta James, has deeply influenced her artistry. Formal training in classical voice, opera, and performing arts marks UNA MIA’s journey through music. This solid foundation in diverse musical disciplines has shaped her into a multifaceted performer. As she gears up to unveil her first EP, UNA MIA offers listeners a glimpse into her introspective world. Described as diary-like narratives, her upcoming work reflects a profound dive into self-discovery and maturation.