#OnOurRadar: 12 R&B Singers To Watch
Last year, we saw some of our R&B favorites finally get the shine they deserved. With powerful releases from Jazmine Sullivan, Summer Walker, NAO, Silk Sonic, and more there’s no way you can deny the fact that the current state of R&B is on fire. Now that we are in the new year, it’s time to place our bets on those hidden gems that are on the rise. Below we have compiled a list of talented singer/songwriters that you need to have on your radar.
Thuy
Thuy is a Vietnamese-American songstress hailing from the Bay Area. Growing up, she was inspired by the likes of Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera, and ever since then, she knew she wanted to be a pop star. Thuy has now released several angelic songs leading her to the path of stardom. Thuy advocates for being true to yourself and hopes to be a voice for those who want to feel seen.
Destin Conrad
Tampa-born R&B singer/songwriter Destin Conrad was a teenager when he first found fame via social media, becoming known for his fluid, subtle, and eminently soulful style Conrad is now one of the most promising R&B acts on the rise. Last year, he made a mark on millions with the release of his debut ep entitled, “COLORWAY”.
Dee Gatti
Hailing from Dallas/Fort-Worth, Texas, Dee Gatti is poised to be the next breakout R&B superstar. After only a year of releasing music, Gatti has racked up millions of streams across all streaming platforms with singles such as, “Caught Up” and “I.J.S. (I’m Just Sayin’).” Her music showcases her phenomenal vocal range, captivating lyrics, and melodic production.
Jvck James
Jvck James is a singer-songwriter hailing from East London. James made his first Rare Radar premiere years ago on our quarterly Fire Finds playlist, but since then has made tremendous progress in his music career. With a timeless yet modern sound matched with his distinctive and captivating artistry, Jvck is a truly exciting name to watch.
Sticky The Menace
Sticky The Menance is a singer/songwriter from Fort Worth, Texas. Growing up, she was known for being shy and reserved but used short poems and music as a form of expression. Sticky credits Aretha Franklin, Prince, Andre 3000, and Erykah Badu as some of her inspirations. Her music displays a perfect blend of trap soul vibes.
Zae France
Zae France is an R&B/Soul singer that is quietly taking the industry by storm. The North Carolina native has always been surrounded by music. He was raised by a single mother who was a part of a Gospel group; France grew up in church and gives credit to his mom as well as church for teaching him how to sing. After releasing his debut project entitled Rhythm and Backwoods, he built a loyal following on Instagram that loves to tune in to his IG live studio sessions.
Elaine
Elaine is a South African R&B singer and songwriter from Pretoria. While attending high school, she explored her passion for songwriting. Since then, Elaine has flourished into an all-around entertainer. Her breakout single, “You’re The One,” has been certified 3x-Platinum in South Africa, the rising star serves as the first independent artist to reach #1 on the Apple Music Sub-Saharan African charts. Elaine’s captivating music has made her one of the most promising acts on the rise in 2022.
Nija
Nija is a Grammy-winning songwriter, artist, and record producer. She quickly became one of music’s most sought-after songwriters after working with the likes of Beyonce, Ariana Grande, Cardi B, and more. Although Nija has achieved a lot thus far, the New Jersey native doesn’t want to be seen as just a songwriter. Her debut project is set to be released on January 30th. With her single “Easy My Mind” already doing so well, we’re excited to see her step into her full artistic bag.
Devin Morrison
Mixing '90s R&B influences with gospel, hip-hop, and funk, Devin Morrison is a skillful singer/songwriter known for his sultry, groove-oriented anthems. The Orlando-born, LA-based vocalist, instrumentalist, and producer released Bussin’ – his debut in 2019. The project was a strong introduction to his music ability and has his fans excited to see what’s next. If you’re looking for that nostalgic 90’s r&b then you need to have Devin on your radar.
Kayland
Kayland is a songstress hailing from Broward County Miami. Growing up with a Jamaican mother and Haitian father, she was exposed to an array of cultures that helped shape her colorful and vibrant sound. Her unique ability to deliver nostalgic melodies over modern-day production is what sets her apart. If you enjoy artists such as Erykah Badu, D’Angelo, or Syd then Kayland’s music will definitely captivate you right away. Her new single entitled “Control” is set to be released in February.
Phabo
Phabo is a singer/songwriter that’s currently based in LA. Similar to Nija, Phabo has made a mark behind the scenes with his amazing songwriting abilities. He is known for his pen work for artists like Kehlani, Jahkoy, and Kyle Dion. Last year, Phabo released his debut album entitled Soulquarius. The name of the project is a tribute zodiac and the beloved Soulquarians collective. Phabo is well on his way to becoming one of the most respected r&b acts of today’s generation.
Marzz
Marzz started singing at the tender age of 4 in a children’s choir. Despite having to overcome her innate shyness along with having to suppress her queer sexuality from the pressures that sometimes accompany growing up Christian, the Louisville, Kentucky native now embraces her complete self and passion for R&B with unapologetic zeal. Timbaland co-signed her after discovering her Youtube covers and she was featured on the BET Amplified stage last year which has exposed her to more potential fans. As more people continue to discover her, she hopes her music will fuel their imagination to create their own narratives -- almost like a magic spell.