The 24 Neo-Soul artists redefining the sound of contemporary Soul Music landscape in 2024 and beyond. Plus a playlist of the best of the lot.
2023 was historical for the music it’s delivered. Neo-Soul artists, in particular, have been creating and collaborating via the blessing of the internet. Bodes very well for music in 2024.
Many emerging artists in the contemporary Neo-Soul and R&B music scene, and home-bread singers from the UK like Jaz Karis, Cleo Sol and Pip Millet unveiled exceptional projects.
Internationally, we have Neo-Soul artists to be grateful for in 2024. Gaidaa and RIMON are leading the Dutch sound of Soul. Other side of the pond, Ari Lennox, Daniel Caesar and SiR are holding the Neo-Soul movement down, making ground-breaking moves with their music.
The level of excellence in the Neo-Soul genre, both from new and more seasoned artists, is astounding. These artists, like true greats do, bring multiple musical influences together in their music. Bringing together old Soul and futuristic sounds. And Soul, R&B, Jazz, Electronic, Hip Hop and more influences. So, without further ado, here is our list of 24 Neo-Soul artists to watch out for. The artists reshaping the Neo-Soul sound for the next generation.
Plus a playlist to celebrate the smooth sounds of Neo-Soul for good measure.
1. Cleo Sol
From Ladbroke Grove, West London, and formed of Serbian, Spanish and Jamaican heritage, Cleo Sol is a special talent who has been an eye catcher in the genre for a few years now.
Releasing her debut EP Winter Songs back in March 2018, Cleo has been gracing the Neo-soul scene ever since. Winter Songs was an impressive introduction to Cleo Sol as an artist with the first track of the album, Why Don’t You receiving over 14 million streams on Spotify.
Cleo’s inspirations derive from her parents musical passions, shuffling through a record collection of classics across Motown, Reggae, Latin, and Acid Jazz. Cleo developed her own sound, inspired by pop culture and Neo-Soul, influences that can be heard and felt on her debut album, Rose in the Dark.
Rose in the Dark truly is Soul Music at its finest and Cleo’s voice dazzles throughout. Lyrically and melodically she paints intensely vivid images laced over rhythmic soulful production that delights throughout. It’s that head-nodding, good music feeling reminiscent at points of Sade. The 11 track album lasts just under 40 minutes is a journey through contemporary Soul / R&B.
In 2021, she quickly followed with Mother, another body of exceptionally refreshing Neo-Soul. Having collaborated with Little Simz, Tinie Tempah and more, Cleo is a force in the modern Neo-Soul movement. A Neo-Soul artist to watch in 2022 and beyond.
2. Lizzie Berchie
The Neo-Soul singing sweetheart from Newham. Lizzie Berchie is a little bit sultry, a little bit sweet. Berchie welcomes you to her world by gently pulling you into storytimes about the beauty of flourishing love in songs alongside the world’s own heartaches and grief such as in tracks ‘Nsala’ and ‘Trying’. Her first EP, Under the Sun, feels like a safe space to reflect and grieve alongside observing the warmth and care that can be found amongst us. Stand-out track for us is the gem, Growth which is reminiscent of the greats of Neo-Soul artists.
3. SiR
Inglewood, California native, SiR has a laid-back tone in his voice. The same vibe is reflected in the sound of his music. The energy of California feels breathed into his laid back, but deeply resonant, Neo-Soul sound. Releasing his debut album November on Top Dawg Entertainment, back in 2018, SiR is also a songwriter with a history of writing for Ginuwine, Jill Scott, and even Stevie Wonder!
SiR’s 2019 album, Chasing Summer, is a contemporary Soul classic with lyrical realness for true Neo-Soul aficionados. We can’t wait for more from SiR. And with the string of new music he’s recently released, we’re expecting a new album in 2023.
4. Amaria
Amaria McGee is a sultry Tampa, Florida native with deep roots in Neo-Soul. Amaria may be the most relevant comparison to Erykah Badu in contemporary Soul and R&B there is. Most comfortable riffing on mellow, but rich watching Amaria evolve her already impressive artistry since her 2020 debut singles has been satisfying. Notably, her latest EP All For You, is a wonderful maturing of her sound. The project features a dreamy, soothing Neo-Soul collection of gems, including Secrets and the title track. We’re certain Amaria is set to be one of the iconic Neo-Soul artists of this generation.
5. Nápoles
Sweden based Nápoles first introduced herself on her first single ‘Slowzy‘ in February 2020. It was a dreamy, laid back intro that oozes chilled, retro feels. The music video brings this all to life. The deep baseline drop that recurs throughout the song is coupled with Nápoles soft vocals that ride on the rhythm, whilst the lyrics speak to self-care. Slowzy pays homage to vintage Neo-soul with Nápoles own twist creating an undeniable hit. In addition, her lyrical and vocal ability to smoothly glide over a laid back rhythmic beat is a wonderful blend.
Previously part of DJ and creative collective ‘Ladieslovehiphop’, where they opened for Beyonce and Jay Z, Nápoles has shown she is certainly a true talent in her own right.
6. KIRBY
ROC Nation’s, KIRBY Lauryen is a unique artist who delivers smooth vocals and old-Soul-meets-the-sound-of-tomorrow on every track.
Her collab remix for her song, Velvet, featuring Lucky Daye, featured on the Insecure soundtrack. Fusing funk instrumentals, the track gives reminiscent vibes, as KIRBY always serves with her magnificent ‘fro in tow. The song comes straight off of her 2020 album Sis… And Sis, we really are here for it!
7. Ari Lennox
Signed to J Cole’s record label, Dreamville, Ari Lennox finally got some of the recognition she deserved after her debut album, Shea Butter Baby, in May 2019. Ari Lennox is a vanguard of true Soul in contemporary music.
On the Cole-featured title single, Shea Butter Baby, Ari effortlessly oozes sultry passion and the album with the same monicker delivers. Shea Butter Baby offers perfect Neo-Soul, with luminous R&B renditions. Ari serves ear milk to listeners through her high vocal range and faultless runs. Lyrically, she grounds her music in the everyday experience of a black girl from her first apartment to love, sex and relationships. Ari is that fine wine Neo-Soul brewed for the finest of ears, but always a vibe.
8. Children of Zeus
Children of Zeus personify how Neo-Soul seamlessly integrates Hip Hop and Soul music. A duo composed of two of Manchester, UK’s most loved and respected artists. Children of Zeus is comprised of DJ/ MC/ beat maker, Konny Kon and vocalist/MC, Tyler Daley.
Describing their music as ‘future classic soul music’, these Neo-Soul artists have made their mark as one of the most respected soul musicians of their time. The duo have garnered success in the UK and across Europe for their debut and sophomore albums, Travel Light (2018) & Balance (2021). Immerse yourself in their soul food on both of these albums.
9. Pip Millet
Manchester born, Pip Millet’s COLORS premiere currently stands at over 3 million views! And we completely understand why. The clapping cadence and honest lyrics speak to her authenticity and her free self-expression continues in her newer releases too.
Pip’s 2020 EP, Lost In June, features bopping beats on tracks like Heavenly Mother which has over 1 million Spotify streams and her light yet gripping vocals trickle throughout the EP. Consistently releasing stellar music, Pip offers truly Soulful tunes that will keep you nodding and singing along.
10. Akemi Fox
Another Manchester-based songstress, Akemi Fox, brings sweet vocals across her tracks. Single, Lemon Tea features twinkling bells that creep through the song’s instrumentals and bares an alternative R&B feel.
Featured on BBC Introducing, Akemi’s voice echoes, leaving you in a reflective state on Weightless. The tune also features spoken word lyrics voiced by her fellow Manchester-native Matthew Baines. The expressive track impressively has over 422K streams on Spotify.
11. Hana
Another brilliant addition to the talent emerging from South London, multi-talented Hana Oliveira is an actress as seen on BBC’s Enterprice, and Hood Documentary, as well as a gifted singer. Hana’s Be With U is a tune you can unwind to in the sunshine and is currently on its way to 500K streams. Her lush vocals perfectly assist the swaying beat and bopping cadence.
You can find more of Hana’s beautifully crafted songs on Spotify.
12. RIMON
Amsterdam-based, RIMON, released her sophomore EP, U Shine, I Shine in 2020.
A unique storyteller, RIMON released a visual counterpart to her EP, entitled What They Called Me. A unique artist in many ways, the Eritrean born singer’s talent is boldly proclaimed through her clear competent vocals ringing true to Neo-Soul artists.
Describing her sound as ‘soulful, melancholic and vibey’ RIMON is fronting Amsterdam’s new soulful sound.
13. Gaidaa
Dutch-Sudanese Gaidaa performed an iconic special, Morning Blue on COLORS back in 2019 and incorporates her mother tongue in the song.
Also from The Netherlands, the singer grew up in a musical household, as her dad was a musician. This July, she released her debut EP Overture, where her authenticity is on display with a rich blend of futuristic, Soul, electronic and Jazz. Packed full of inventive, stand-out tracks like Stranger, Falling Higher and I Like Trouble.
Gaidaa shares that her musical influences include Lauryn Hill, Amy Winehouse and Jazmine Sullivan. This blend of inspirations are all hinted at in aspects of her music. A newcomer who’s light shines very bright for the future.
14. Ego Ella May
Emerging from South London, Ego Ella May holds a rare grasp in her vocals and writes thought-provoking lyrics throughout her music.
Featured not once, but twice on COLORS in July 2020, the songstress was launched to the world stage after the release of her exceptional sophomore album, Honey For Wounds. Reminiscent of an Erykah Badu tone at times, Ego Ella May delivers timeless music. Honey For Wounds is true to its name with Ella’s silky, dulcet tones, insightful lyricism and multi-dimensional influences.
15. James Vickery
Recently releasing Perfect Company off of his Overture EP, James Vickery has a sweet piercing tone that immediately commands attention. On Overture, James collaborated with the likes of SG Lewis, Kenny Beats and more.
“My songs are deeply personal to me. I try and draw from personal experience in order to get that raw and passionate vocal across.” And this certainly comes across throughout his work. His soulful vocals instantly draw in listeners and the honest lyrics keep you engaged all the more. His song, Until Morning is a popular one receiving over 8 million on Spotify streams and a colossal 20 million views on his COLORS performance of it 2 years ago.
16. Raveena
Indian-American, Raveena displays luscious melodies on every single track she jumps on. Her 2020 EP Moonstone is the perfect title, as her voice is truly out of this world! She carries the power to transport you into orbit through her angelic vocals, making you feel uplifted in a lucid environment. An absolute necessity for neo-soul artists to watch out for!
In an interview with gal-dem magazine, Raveena shares, “I want to make music to heal – that’s emotional and embraces the softest parts of people’s beings”. The intricate detail her voice holds is a remedy for any listener needing something comforting, to say the very least, to listen to.
17. BLK ODYSSY
BLK ODYSYY is one for the D’Angelo heads. No copy, but definitely inspired by the funkadelic Neo-Soul of D’Angelo’s Voodoo. A modern, refreshing take on Neo-Soul in contemporary Soul music, BLK ODYSYY has carved a unique lane. The New Jersey native grew up steeped in the sounds of Neo-Soul and is building a reputation for his musically rich live performances. He followed up his BLK VINTAGE album series with 2023’s DIAMONDS & FREAKS, proving he’s one to keep an eye on.
18. Daniel Caesar
Best known for his smash hit Best Part duet with H.E.R, Daniel Caesar continues to be a popular recognisable name in the Soul/ R&B genre in 2020. Daniel released his debut album Freudian in 2017, which was a shortlisted finalist for the 2018 Polaris Music Prize.
Born In Ottawa, Canada, ‘Made To Fall In Love’ is one of Daniel’s more recent releases and yep, you guessed it, – it has a reggae backing track on it! But Daniel’s authentic soulful vocals remain steady all the same. In his recent work, Daniel has collaborated with the likes of Koffee, Chronixx and more.
19. Baby Rose
Cultivating incredibly distinct deep vocals, Baby Rose, is possibly one of the most intriguing Neo-Soul artists of her generation! Don’t let her name fool you, as there is nothing child-like about her voice.
In 2020, Baby Rose featured on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert. This year, she released her Golden Hour EP on 8th July and delves deeper into her life experiences.
Teased as a child for her unique soulful tone, Baby Rose is far from shy as her bold and powerful voice is profound on each of her songs and ones that she features on.
20. Greentea Peng
Raised in Bermondsey, London, Greentea Peng released her debut EP Sensi in 2018. One of Neo-Soul’s most distinctive contemporary voices. Her fashion sense speaks to the Asian influences her songs also carry through as on tracks like Mr. Sun released.
Describing herself as ‘psychedelic R&B’, Peng is a rare commodity as she also embeds her native South London accent into some of her songs, championing her background.
21. Liv.e
L.A based avant-grande star Liv.e grew up listening to gospel, jazz and R&B. This concoction of influences informs the experimental Neo-Soul music she produces.
The exploratory artist features an ocean of funky sounds, coupled with spoken word poetry on her track ‘BoutThesePipeDreams’- one of her latest releases. The artwork on both Liv.e’s album and music videos are of a colour reverse effect, transporting you to an alternative world. Her MTOMB (live) track has over 3 million streams on Spotify.
22. Fana Hues
Fana Hues is an LA-based and bred Neo-Soul artist with a futuristic, alternative R&B edge. On her sophomore offering, Flora + Fana, she showcases her unique lane in the genre. A cohesive, elegant and delicately beautiful body of work, Flora + Fana feels both personal and communal in its invitation to take care of self. It was one of 2022’s best albums and we are excited for more from Fana.
23. The KTNA
The KTNA are a gem from Manchester’s burgeoning Soul Music scene. Over the past few years, they have established themselves as some of the UK’s most exiting Neo-Soul artists, especially with their live performances. These powerhouse vocalists are also music producers, self-producing most of their music. Their late 2021 offering, RESURGENCE is a shimmering display of their immense music prowess and the beauty of the unique sonic lane they’ve crafted themselves.
24. Nia Chennai
This Neo-Soul influenced artist is playful in her music making and teases us with her ability to rap in a few select songs. As playful and dreamy as Nia is, her music is also honest in her experiences and makes listeners feel as if they’ve been invited to read her diary. Nia Chennai is a Neo-Soul singer we look forward to more of her sincere lyrics and endearing voice.
The future of Neo-Soul shines bright with these artists.
