Is Soul Music Thriving Again: 4 Songs for Your Summer Playlist
Written By: Kierstyn Pryor
Every summer deserves a soul playlist and we have one prepared just for you! For decades R&B and soul has stood steadfast at the forefront of music and entertainment, making it one of the most listened to genre in history since the 60’s. With artists like Keyshia Cole ,Musiq Soul Child , Mariah Carey, Sisqo, Lyfe Jennings, and many others Soul music has always been in good hands. Fast forward to 2024 the genre is still making waves through powerful artists such as Victoria Monet , Lucky Daye, Summer Walker, Tone Stith, Muni Long, and H.E.R to name a few. These new artists are adamant about carrying forth the legacy of the soulful sound. Recently, soul has started to become represented in alternative ways creating a new version of soul. A few of these versions definitely deserve a spot on your playlist. Here are our top creative, alternative, and inspirational soul songs that we believe you should be adding to your playlist this summer.
He Loves Us Both - Lila Ikė Feat. H.E.R.
If Monica and Brandy’s hit song “the boy is mine” had a sequel, this new jam would surely be it! H.E.R and Lila Ike are giving listeners a new look into old school, sensual, reggae, and soul vibes all at once! This modern reggae version of our absolute favorite R&B battle of the 90’s should secure a spot on your playlist. Lila Ike has been on the music scene since 2016 and has a total of 20 singles and 1 album under her belt. Grammy-award-winning artist H.E.R. is a multi instrumentalist with several hits that have gained a multitude of awards and top spots on the Billboard Hot 100. The two of songstresses are known for their rich tones and soulful lyrics, making their new single “He Loves Us Both” so easy to love. The song takes us into the conversation between two women who find out that they are dating the same man who just so happens to love them both. If you are an R&B and lyric lover, “He Loves Us Both” won't be hard for you to sing along with.
Here We Go ( Uh Oh) - Coco jones
Uh Oh! Here we go! Coco Jones is amazing us once again with a soulful jam with undeniably relatable lyrics. The singer sampled the instrumentation of the song from none other than music legend Lenny Williams’ classic “I Love You”. It is no surprise that she is coming with a concept that many women can relate to after her release of other hits like Double Back, Simple, and ICU. This time the soul singer is speaking to an ex who she can't seem to get rid of even with other options hoping to pursue her. Not only does the song leave room for us to get to know the lyrics, but also unforgettable ad libs. Coco Jones is known for the richness in her voice and ability to create ad libs that will never leave your mind. This is what soul sounds like.
Same Mistake - Destin Conrad Feat. Alex Isely
It's not a soul song without the voice of Alex isely and it isn't lyrically intriguing if it doesn't have Destin Conrad in it! These two linked up to collaborate on a new song, “Same Mistake” a soulful song highlighting a complicated relationship between two lovers. Destin croons about wanting to further pursue a relationship with his lover while Alex declares that their intimacy were only momentary for her, and she has no desire to pursue the romance. While Isley is known for her soft and delightful tone, Destin is known to go viral for his impeccable production in his music and lyricism. The song is highly relatable and the visuals offer a vintage nostalgia that perfectly accompanies the song. A collaboration so great makes us want to hear and see more from the dynamic duo!
Beggin’ - Amaria
Born in Tampa Florida, Amaria began her musical journey in 2020 as a teenager with the single, “Morning”. Now in 2024 she is taking over with her new track, “Beggin’. With 686.4 K monthly listeners on Spotify, not only does the singer harbor soothing vocal abilities but also keen knowledge about instrumentation. Her very first single along with others were self-produced, she knows how to gather an audience through her musicality and technique. “Beggin” has very reminiscent tones to that of past musicians such as Sade and Erykah Badu. The musical elements are unforgettable and exude the meaning of true soul which is why it deserves a spot on any soul playlist!
The summer is just not right without a playlist to score the memories. While there are a plethora of new songs to choose from everyday, these picks are the ones that will guide your chill summer days perfectly into soulful summer nights.