As the air cools and the days get shorter, November has a way of slowing us down for the new season ahead. Here in the U.S., Thanksgiving sits at the center of it all, graciously setting aside space for us to pause in the noise, to gather, to eat, to laugh, and to remember what’s carried us through the year. It’s the season for thankfulness in its simplest form — building memories that last a lifetime, taking time to show love, and showing up for the people who’ve been there, and for the strength that’s kept us inspired to keep moving.

If you’re like me, music has always been a part of that feeling. The right song can set the mood or serve as a timestamp to a memory that surfaces when you least expect it. There’s so much to be thankful for, and these songs help bring that into focus, carrying warmth and a sense of calm that fit perfectly into this time of year.

If you’re like me, music has always been a part of that feeling. The right song can set the mood or serve as a timestamp to a memory that surfaces when you least expect it. There’s so much to be thankful for, and these songs help bring that into focus, carrying warmth and a sense of calm that fit perfectly into this time of year.

As you move through the month, whether you’re traveling home, cooking with family, or simply trying to stay grounded through the shift into winter, add these songs to your playlist. Let them hold space for you, remind you of what matters most, and fill the quiet moments with something that feels like gratitude.

As you move through the month, whether you’re traveling home, cooking with family, or simply trying to stay grounded through the shift into winter, add these songs to your playlist. Let them hold space for you, remind you of what matters most, and fill the quiet moments with something that feels like gratitude.

Forgetting You – Luna Elle 

Forgetting You – Luna Elle 

If you haven’t heard of Luna Elle, the 20-year-old singer and songwriter is proving that age doesn’t define the depth of a sound or the weight of introspective lyrics. One of Canada’s most exciting emerging talents, Luna Elle has quickly gained recognition for her smooth vocals and timeless songwriting. Her rich, Toni Braxton-esque tone shines through tracks like Forgetting You, a beautiful reminder that seasons change — and that’s okay. While it’s clearly a breakup song, there’s a warmth that suggests endings don’t always have to be painful; they can mark the start of something new. The track encourages reflection, shedding old baggage, and moving into a space of deeper alignment. Forgetting You is the kind of song that belongs on a thankfulness playlist, a reminder to honor the relentless strength that lives within us all.

If you haven’t heard of Luna Elle, the 20-year-old singer and songwriter is proving that age doesn’t define the depth of a sound or the weight of introspective lyrics. One of Canada’s most exciting emerging talents, Luna Elle has quickly gained recognition for her smooth vocals and timeless songwriting. Her rich, Toni Braxton-esque tone shines through tracks like Forgetting You, a beautiful reminder that seasons change — and that’s okay. While it’s clearly a breakup song, there’s a warmth that suggests endings don’t always have to be painful; they can mark the start of something new. The track encourages reflection, shedding old baggage, and moving into a space of deeper alignment. Forgetting You is the kind of song that belongs on a thankfulness playlist, a reminder to honor the relentless strength that lives within us all.

Mag!c – Ariel J 

Mag!c – Ariel J 

Ariel J calls herself the Mystic of Mississippi, and her music reflects that title. The way she weaves poetry and reflection into her songs creates an emotional conjuring that invites both vulnerability and encouragement. As a singer and songwriter gaining momentum — and earning the support of artists like Erykah Badu and SZA — Ariel J continues to carve out her own space in the music industry.

Ariel J calls herself the Mystic of Mississippi, and her music reflects that title. The way she weaves poetry and reflection into her songs creates an emotional conjuring that invites both vulnerability and encouragement. As a singer and songwriter gaining momentum — and earning the support of artists like Erykah Badu and SZA — Ariel J continues to carve out her own space in the music industry.

In November, a month of reflection, songs like Maj!c stand out. The track opens with the poetic words of novelist Toni Morrison, emphasizing the power of storytelling to unlock vulnerability. Ariel J sings about growing through low moments and overcoming obstacles, blending historical references, comforting vocals, and affirming lyrics. The result is a song that reminds listeners they can rise like a phoenix from the ashes, move freely through life, and trust that the world is cheering them on.

In November, a month of reflection, songs like Maj!c stand out. The track opens with the poetic words of novelist Toni Morrison, emphasizing the power of storytelling to unlock vulnerability. Ariel J sings about growing through low moments and overcoming obstacles, blending historical references, comforting vocals, and affirming lyrics. The result is a song that reminds listeners they can rise like a phoenix from the ashes, move freely through life, and trust that the world is cheering them on.

God – Doechii 

God – Doechii 

“God,” the 2020 interlude from Doechii’s EP Oh the Places You’ll Go, feels like a manifestation in hindsight. Written during a period when she worried about being a one-hit wonder, the track reflects on divine abundance and limitless creative energy, a reminder that someone else’s success doesn’t take away from her own. Five years later, Doechii has emerged as a Grammy-winning artist on a remarkable streak, and listening to “God” now is a moment to give thanks — for growth, resilience, and the blessings that come from trusting the journey. The song stands as a quiet celebration of gratitude, personal evolution, and the power of embracing abundance in both life and creativity.

“God,” the 2020 interlude from Doechii’s EP Oh the Places You’ll Go, feels like a manifestation in hindsight. Written during a period when she worried about being a one-hit wonder, the track reflects on divine abundance and limitless creative energy, a reminder that someone else’s success doesn’t take away from her own. Five years later, Doechii has emerged as a Grammy-winning artist on a remarkable streak, and listening to “God” now is a moment to give thanks — for growth, resilience, and the blessings that come from trusting the journey. The song stands as a quiet celebration of gratitude, personal evolution, and the power of embracing abundance in both life and creativity.

Fellowship – Serpentwithfeet

Fellowship – Serpentwithfeet

Serpentwithfeet’s Fellowship is a gentle, heartfelt celebration of friendship that feels like home. The understated yet captivating production perfectly frames his dextrous voice, tender and powerful all at once, while Sampha joins him in a chorus that repeats a simple but profound line: “I’m thankful for the love I share with my friends.” Throughout the song, serpent offers small, charming snapshots of friendship — breezy Sunday afternoons, Christmas films in July, shared fascination with Prosecco, the silly faces friends make — and contrasts them with the bigger truths about love and connection: how certain friendships make him breathe easier, laugh more, and appreciate life’s moments instead of fixating on worry. In the spirit of November reflection, Fellowship is a perfect reminder to give thanks for the people who anchor us, bring joy, and feel like home in an unpredictable world.

Serpentwithfeet’s Fellowship is a gentle, heartfelt celebration of friendship that feels like home. The understated yet captivating production perfectly frames his dextrous voice, tender and powerful all at once, while Sampha joins him in a chorus that repeats a simple but profound line: “I’m thankful for the love I share with my friends.” Throughout the song, serpent offers small, charming snapshots of friendship — breezy Sunday afternoons, Christmas films in July, shared fascination with Prosecco, the silly faces friends make — and contrasts them with the bigger truths about love and connection: how certain friendships make him breathe easier, laugh more, and appreciate life’s moments instead of fixating on worry. In the spirit of November reflection, Fellowship is a perfect reminder to give thanks for the people who anchor us, bring joy, and feel like home in an unpredictable world.

You’ve Got a Friend – Elmiene 

You’ve Got a Friend – Elmiene 

Elmiene’s 2025 cover of You’ve Got a Friend brings a fresh, soulful energy to the Carole King and James Taylor classic, reimagined with a Stevie Wonder-inspired touch. Released as part of his This Is The Remix EP, the track keeps the iconic message of unwavering friendship and support intact, offering an ode to platonic love and the promise of being there through anything. Elmiene, a rising force in R&B known for his modern take on neo-soul, blends reverence for the original with his own vibrant style, making the song feel both timeless and current. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, this cover is a simple, heartfelt reminder to be grateful for the friends who are always there.

Elmiene’s 2025 cover of You’ve Got a Friend brings a fresh, soulful energy to the Carole King and James Taylor classic, reimagined with a Stevie Wonder-inspired touch. Released as part of his This Is The Remix EP, the track keeps the iconic message of unwavering friendship and support intact, offering an ode to platonic love and the promise of being there through anything. Elmiene, a rising force in R&B known for his modern take on neo-soul, blends reverence for the original with his own vibrant style, making the song feel both timeless and current. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, this cover is a simple, heartfelt reminder to be grateful for the friends who are always there.

Pride in 2025 is hitting differently. In a year when headlines read like setbacks, anti-LGBTQ+ laws passing in state houses and corporations quietly scaling back DEI efforts, celebration feels both necessary and defiant. And once again, it’s Black queer artists who are showing up with freedom and honesty that can’t be duplicated or erased. 

These musicians aren’t just performing at Pride events across the country, they’re anchoring them. Their ability to authentically be themselves and their very existence is challenging what’s happening in classrooms and legislative floors. 

These musicians aren’t just performing at Pride events across the country, they’re anchoring them. Their ability to authentically be themselves and their very existence is challenging what’s happening in classrooms and legislative floors. 

Iniko

Iniko

Headlining the opening concert of DC Black Pride this year, Iniko brought an almost spiritual presence to the stage. Their breakout hit “Jericho,” a genre-fluid anthem about inner strength and spiritual warfare went viral for a reason. Iniko’s music feels like it’s been channeled and not written. Their voice has gone far beyond TikTok, where many first discovered them.

Headlining the opening concert of DC Black Pride this year, Iniko brought an almost spiritual presence to the stage. Their breakout hit “Jericho,” a genre-fluid anthem about inner strength and spiritual warfare went viral for a reason. Iniko’s music feels like it’s been channeled and not written. Their voice has gone far beyond TikTok, where many first discovered them.

Iniko (they/them) is part of a new wave of artists refusing to be boxed in by gender, genre, or expectation. Their visuals are often celestial and rooted in mysticism. Performing at a major Pride event in the nation’s capital was more than symbolic, but transformative.

Iniko (they/them) is part of a new wave of artists refusing to be boxed in by gender, genre, or expectation. Their visuals are often celestial and rooted in mysticism. Performing at a major Pride event in the nation’s capital was more than symbolic, but transformative.

Destin Conrad

Destin Conrad

With his new album Love On Digital, Destin Conrad is documenting the lives of Black queer folks in real time. The standout track, “Kissing in Public,” was coupled with a music video that went viral for all the right reasons. In it, Conrad and his love interest share soft touches, stolen kisses, and full on creative dance breakouts that had the internet sitting up. 

With his new album Love On Digital, Destin Conrad is documenting the lives of Black queer folks in real time. The standout track, “Kissing in Public,” was coupled with a music video that went viral for all the right reasons. In it, Conrad and his love interest share soft touches, stolen kisses, and full on creative dance breakouts that had the internet sitting up. 

It’s rare. Especially in male R&B. It probably struck a few nerves. TikTok lit up with duets, stitches, and emotional commentary. Fans, many of them young, queer, and Black, didn’t just love the song, but felt seen by the video’s radical softness. In a time where displays of queer intimacy feels risky, Conrad gave his audience something tender and defiant: the right to be loved visibly. 

It’s rare. Especially in male R&B. It probably struck a few nerves. TikTok lit up with duets, stitches, and emotional commentary. Fans, many of them young, queer, and Black, didn’t just love the song, but felt seen by the video’s radical softness. In a time where displays of queer intimacy feels risky, Conrad gave his audience something tender and defiant: the right to be loved visibly. 

I’m sure this wasn’t about sparking virality, but taking up space. His upcoming Pride appearances across LA, New York, and Chicaho are expected to be packed out with fans who see themselves in his lyrics and liberation.

I’m sure this wasn’t about sparking virality, but taking up space. His upcoming Pride appearances across LA, New York, and Chicaho are expected to be packed out with fans who see themselves in his lyrics and liberation.

Saucy Santana

Saucy Santana

In Louisville, a city currently contending with anti-drag legislation and pushback against LGBTQ+ education, Saucy Santana will headline the Kentuckiana Pride Festival and he’s not pulling up quietly. The rapper, influencer, and internet fave has built a career off of honest refusal to tone himself down for anyone. Known for his full glam, long nails, and gender bending fashion style, Santana’s set is about to be a statement. 

In Louisville, a city currently contending with anti-drag legislation and pushback against LGBTQ+ education, Saucy Santana will headline the Kentuckiana Pride Festival and he’s not pulling up quietly. The rapper, influencer, and internet fave has built a career off of honest refusal to tone himself down for anyone. Known for his full glam, long nails, and gender bending fashion style, Santana’s set is about to be a statement. 

From his breakout moment with viral anthems like “Material Girl” to his newest hit “Bounce,” Santana makes music that feels like fun, and reminds us that joy still exists in the community despite the government’s villainous oppositions.  

From his breakout moment with viral anthems like “Material Girl” to his newest hit “Bounce,” Santana makes music that feels like fun, and reminds us that joy still exists in the community despite the government’s villainous oppositions.  

Santana’s shows and presence on Southern Pride stages will serve as symbols of visibility and protest because he’s far from going anywhere. 

Santana’s shows and presence on Southern Pride stages will serve as symbols of visibility and protest because he’s far from going anywhere. 

Doechii: The Swamp Princess of Fluidity

Doechii: The Swamp Princess of Fluidity

If anyone knows how to turn a stage into a full-body experience, it’s Doechii. Dubbed as the Swamp Princess of the South, the Tampa-born rapper and singer is set to headline the closing concert at DC WorldPride 2025. 

If anyone knows how to turn a stage into a full-body experience, it’s Doechii. Dubbed as the Swamp Princess of the South, the Tampa-born rapper and singer is set to headline the closing concert at DC WorldPride 2025. 

Doechii burst into mainstream with tracks like “Persuasive,” a hypnotic, genre-blurring collaboration with SZA. Since then she’s known for her unpredictable flows, Grammy award winning album, and a performance style that feels more like art, with its femme and masc energy, rather than a traditional rap set. 

Doechii burst into mainstream with tracks like “Persuasive,” a hypnotic, genre-blurring collaboration with SZA. Since then she’s known for her unpredictable flows, Grammy award winning album, and a performance style that feels more like art, with its femme and masc energy, rather than a traditional rap set. 

While Doechii has publicly never labeled her sexuality, her Pride appearance is sure to be a moment and isn’t just another slot on the lineup. Her presence alone has made space for queerness to exist in complex, liberating ways. When she steps onto the National Mall, her show will feel more like a family reunion for a community that’s already claimed her as one of their own. 

While Doechii has publicly never labeled her sexuality, her Pride appearance is sure to be a moment and isn’t just another slot on the lineup. Her presence alone has made space for queerness to exist in complex, liberating ways. When she steps onto the National Mall, her show will feel more like a family reunion for a community that’s already claimed her as one of their own. 

The NAACP Image Awards, held annually, honors the achievements of people of color in entertainment, with a particular focus on Black talent. Since its inception in 1967, the ceremony has provided a space to celebrate Black excellence in film, television, music, literature, and more. Over the years, it has become a powerful platform for recognizing the cultural contributions of the Black community, shining a light on artists, activists, and creators who influence our world in profound ways.

As we look ahead to the 56th NAACP Image Awards, anticipation is building for an event that celebrates not only the stars we’ve loved for years but also the new wave of talent making their mark. The show promises to be an exciting night full of performances, special honors, and, of course, the recognition of diverse Black talent. 

As we look ahead to the 56th NAACP Image Awards, anticipation is building for an event that celebrates not only the stars we’ve loved for years but also the new wave of talent making their mark. The show promises to be an exciting night full of performances, special honors, and, of course, the recognition of diverse Black talent. 

This year’s nominations showcase a fresh group of first-time nominees who are already making waves in their respective fields. 

This year’s nominations showcase a fresh group of first-time nominees who are already making waves in their respective fields. 

Here’s a look at some of these rising stars who are being recognized for the first time at the prestigious awards show.

Here’s a look at some of these rising stars who are being recognized for the first time at the prestigious awards show.

Doechii

Doechii

Doechii, nominated for Outstanding New Artist, is making a significant impact with her unique blend of rap, R&B, and bold lyricism. Her album Alligator Bites Never Heal has garnered critical acclaim, showcasing her raw talent and fearless approach to storytelling. Known for her dynamic sound and unapologetic attitude, Doechii has become one of the most exciting new voices in music. This nomination is a testament to her growing influence and the promising future ahead.

Doechii, nominated for Outstanding New Artist, is making a significant impact with her unique blend of rap, R&B, and bold lyricism. Her album Alligator Bites Never Heal has garnered critical acclaim, showcasing her raw talent and fearless approach to storytelling. Known for her dynamic sound and unapologetic attitude, Doechii has become one of the most exciting new voices in music. This nomination is a testament to her growing influence and the promising future ahead.

Myles Smith 

Myles Smith 

Myles Smith is another first-time nominee in the Outstanding New Artist category. His soulful voice and fresh approach to R&B have captivated audiences, and he’s quickly building a loyal following. With his authentic sound and emotional delivery, Smith is one to watch in the coming years.

Myles Smith is another first-time nominee in the Outstanding New Artist category. His soulful voice and fresh approach to R&B have captivated audiences, and he’s quickly building a loyal following. With his authentic sound and emotional delivery, Smith is one to watch in the coming years.

Shaboozey 

Shaboozey 

Shaboozey, nominated for Outstanding New Artist, is making his mark by blending hip-hop with country in a way that’s resonating with a diverse audience. Known for his genre-bending sound, he’s even collaborated with Beyoncé on her latest country album Cowboy Carter, adding to his growing recognition. His ability to merge the storytelling tradition of country with modern rap is setting him apart, and his innovative approach is making him a standout talent to watch.

Shaboozey, nominated for Outstanding New Artist, is making his mark by blending hip-hop with country in a way that’s resonating with a diverse audience. Known for his genre-bending sound, he’s even collaborated with Beyoncé on her latest country album Cowboy Carter, adding to his growing recognition. His ability to merge the storytelling tradition of country with modern rap is setting him apart, and his innovative approach is making him a standout talent to watch.

Samoht 

Samoht 

Nominated for Outstanding New Artist, Samoht is known for his genre-blending style, fusing elements of R&B, soul, and alternative music. His breakout single “Control” has garnered attention for its smooth, introspective vibe, earning him a place in the new wave of Black artists reshaping the music industry.

Nominated for Outstanding New Artist, Samoht is known for his genre-blending style, fusing elements of R&B, soul, and alternative music. His breakout single “Control” has garnered attention for its smooth, introspective vibe, earning him a place in the new wave of Black artists reshaping the music industry.

Tyla 

Tyla 

Tyla has been taking the world by storm, not only with her infectious music but also with her bold presence in fashion. Known for blending pop, R&B, and Afrobeat influences, Tyla’s unique style has earned her a growing fanbase. She’s also begun to garner significant awards recognition, winning accolades like Best New Artist at the 2024 BET Awards. If she wins at the NAACP Image Awards, it would mark her first win, further cementing her as one of the most exciting new talents in music today.

Tyla has been taking the world by storm, not only with her infectious music but also with her bold presence in fashion. Known for blending pop, R&B, and Afrobeat influences, Tyla’s unique style has earned her a growing fanbase. She’s also begun to garner significant awards recognition, winning accolades like Best New Artist at the 2024 BET Awards. If she wins at the NAACP Image Awards, it would mark her first win, further cementing her as one of the most exciting new talents in music today.