Maybe you’ve been with us for a few installations of Soul Sessions or maybe this is your very first time joining me. Either way, consider yourself in a one-on-one listening session with the artists I’ve discovered this week and want to share with you. Let me know which gems had you really bobbing your head or smiling wide in the comments!
MC K~Swift feat. Mankind – “Killing”
James Baldwin said, “To be black and conscious in America is to be in a constant state of rage.” This song perfectly illustrates the rage of those adversely and disproportionately affected by killings in this time and in this place. There are no complex decorations or intricacies to this music. It’s very straightforward, with no hook and a repeating guitar riff. MC K~Swift shows expert emcee skills without acquiescing to common ways of engaging the genre, and Mankind matches Swift’s passion and ability.
Jairus Mozee – “EQUAL RIGHTS”
Also known as “J. Mo,” Jairus Mozee has worked with everyone from Grammy-award winner Lalah Hathaway to BJ The Chicago Kid. His musical and production skills are stellar, however this gem takes his creativity even further. Chopping up commentary from black men and audio from actual violent interactions with police, it’s almost as if J. Mo is scoring the soundtrack to our struggle with this one.
Kev Choice – “Blues for Blueford”
On his recently released project Love and Revolution, emcee, pianist and composer Kev Choice ends with this striking instrumental tune for Alan Blueford, another black person killed by the police. It’s a beautiful tribute, evoking the sorrow, confusion and reflection that comes with each of these tragic events.
Sincerely Wilson – “Love Junkie”
And in these times, we all need a little more love. This is a beautiful tribute to the object of his affection. The alternative and soulful take on contemporary R&B makes this one of the gems you’ll be happy to uncover, and one that can be listened to on repeat.
VanJess – “Adore”
Building a bridge between the girl duos and groups of the 90s that brought the soulfulness and the trap sound of present day black music, this is one of those gems that’s both nostalgic and relevant at the same time. It almost goes in and out of R&B and hip-hop, making one curious if either of the group members is actually an emcee. Check out their other music to find out!
Chris Turner & the Dropouts – “Love”
One of the gems from their Love Bomb EP, Chris Turner & the Dropouts really build a layered composition that takes the listener on a journey with the protagonist in this story, who is grateful to be alive but is still searching for meaning and purpose.
Kyle Shedrick – “War”
This is one of those rare times when I don’t mind the use of autotune because this is an inspirational song with a turn-up sound. Listen to this when you’re going to that job you hate, interviewing for that dream gig, or any situation where you’ll face opposition or challenges. Then, stand in a Superwoman/man pose for at least three minutes, and you’ll be ready to conquer anything.
What songs have been stuck in your head this week? Share in the comments below!
Loving Blavity’s content? Sign up for our daily newsletter!
