Emerging Black Artists You Don’t Want To Miss in 2025

Looking for some new music to fall in love with this year? These badass Black artists are coming in hot with new music and unbeatable talent in 2025, and you don’t want to miss their rise to the top! 🔊 ✨ Check them out, stream their tracks, and spread the love right here…

Emerging Black Artists You Don’t Want To Miss in 2025

Aaron Childs

Aaron Childs is a Los Angeles-based musician blending neo-soul, jazz, and R&B with introspective lyrics and soulful melodies. Raised in a musically rich household, he was inspired by Stevie Wonder, funk, and jazz influences, leading him to study at USC Thornton School of Music. His debut EP in 2017 introduced his unique sound, followed by standout tracks like “Tangerine” and “No Hobbies.” In 2023, his EP No Rewrites showcased his growth and artistry. Beyond his solo work, Aaron collaborates widely and leads AC17 WORLDWIDE, navigating his career independently while captivating audiences with heartfelt performances. // Discover more on Spotify…

Coffey Anderson

“Hailing from Texas, Coffey Anderson has built an acclaimed country music career defined by his tireless work ethic, deep sense of humility, and undeniable country roots. A 5-time Grand Ole Opry performer, CMA member, and proud ACM member, Coffey has uplifted the nation, paid respect to our troops, and connected with millions of listeners through his patriotic anthem Mr. Red White and Blue… Despite his ever-evolving career, Coffey retains his steadfast commitment to his initial goal through his music—using his gift to spread positivity, kindness, and love. With his unwavering dedication to his craft and an ever-expanding platform, Coffey Anderson continues to captivate audiences with his authentic charm, heartfelt melodies, and compelling storytelling…” // Discover more on Spotify…

Gavin Turek

“A disco queen for the modern era, Gavin Turek makes dance music that trades escapism for alchemy, transforming heartbreak and hurt into moments of absolute glory. Since first breaking through with her 2017 EP Good Look For You (hailed by Stereogum as “Studio 54-core for the 21st century”), the L.A.-born artist has matched her magnetic presence and mesmerizing vocals with songwriting that speaks an unguarded truth about her inner life—all while dazzling audiences across the globe with her deeply communal and party-like live show…” // Discover more on Spotify…

Kenny Sharp

Kenny Sharp is a Nashville-based singer, songwriter, and producer with a sound as smooth and bold as its name—Brown Liquor Music. Blending blues, soul, country, funk, and rock & roll, his style channels the raw energy of Otis Redding, Johnny Cash, and Sam Cooke. Originally from Montgomery, Alabama, and raised in Washington, D.C., Sharp started out as a rapper and percussionist before evolving into a powerhouse vocalist and storyteller. His electrifying live performances have landed him on stages with Citizen Cope and Wale, and in 2024, he took home the title at Nashville’s Lightning100 Battle of the Bands. As a songwriter signed to Prescription Songs, he’s penned tracks across genres, including “Witchoo” for Durand Jones & The Indications—a song that caught the attention of Barack Obama and made his 2021 playlist. With placements on Grey’s Anatomy and Station 19 and his debut EP on the horizon, Kenny Sharp is carving out his own lane, bringing Southern grit and soul to modern Americana and R&B. // Discover more on Spotify…

Kes

“One of Trinidad & Tobago’s most celebrated musical acts, Kes (aka Kes the Band), led by vocalist Kees Dieffenthaller, has been a pioneering force in soca since its formation in 2005. Collaborating with artists like Snoop Dogg, Wizkid, and Major Lazer, Kes has taken soca to global stages, delivering indelible anthems like “Wotless” & “Savannah Grass” while mastering smoothed-out, island pop jams such as “Hello” and “Liki Tiki.” In 2020, they released the energetic “live-in-studio” album, “We Home,” capturing their celebrated stage energy for home listening…” // Discover more on Spotify…

Lakecia Benjamin

“Lakecia Benjamin is a New York-based saxophonist, arranger, and composer. She offers a unique, varied meld of R&B, jazz, and funk. Her warm, resonant tone lends itself naturally to any music she chooses to play. She honed her chops with Clark Terry and Terri Lyne Carrington. Retox, her 2012 leader debut, offered originals and soul and funk covers. 2014’s Rise Up, on Ropeadope, contained Prince-inspired jazz-funk jams. In 2020, she released Pursuance: The Coltranes. The widely acclaimed set contained six tunes each by Alice and John Coltrane, played by a large ensemble. In 2023, she issued Phoenix with a star-studded cast, which earned her three Grammy nominations.” // Discover more on Spotify…

Lauren Henderson

“A master of world-building, of tension and release, Lauren Henderson transforms a song into a dreamlike incantation. She sings with a virtuosic warmth and interprets with intention. Since her arrival on the New York scene, the multilingual singer and songwriter has been enchanting audiences across the world. Washed with bright, bold harmonies and ruminative syncopation, her repertoire features tender ballads, swinging arrangements, flamenco dance patterns, Afro-Caribbean influences, and heartfelt storytelling. In the softest phrase, she reveals a passion for the music and its message — in any language…” // Discover more on Spotify…

Mad Keys

“After a relocation to DC in the middle the pandemic, Keys was faced with a decision—pursue a stable career in comms design or commit fully to music. Choosing the latter, he turned to social media, consistently sharing his process and compositions. That dedication led to collaborations with PLYGRND Music and Inner Ocean Records, performances opening for Kiefer, and a beat set at Soho House in LA celebrating his White Label EP release with Soulection. As his audience grew, so did opportunities—leading to brand partnerships with Adobe, INFINITI, Jordan, and Roland. Along the way, he released projects showcasing his range, including the intimate Currents EP and his 2024 beat tape, A Few Ideas…” // Discover more on Spotify…

MALIA

“Often described as healing, Malia’s sounds aren’t just something you listen to, they’re something you feel. Originally from the Pacific Northwest, the alternative R&B/neo-soul songstress garnered some initial buzz after opening for The Internet’s Syd on her West Coast tour in late 2017. Since then, she’s amassed millions of streams on her LPs Late Bloomer, Ripe, Unpolished, and What’s After ‘I Love You?’ As the anticipated follow-up to her last EP, this album chronicles the journey of the other side of heartbreak. It is a meditation on healing: on softening and on (re)connecting with her feminine energy: An uncovering of beauty once buried by shame and fear…” // Discover more on Spotify…

Protoje

Protoje is a trailblazing reggae artist and a key figure in the modern Reggae Revival movement, known for his conscious lyrics, genre-blending sound, and innovative approach to Jamaican music. Since breaking onto the scene with The Seven Year Itch in 2011, he has continued to push reggae’s boundaries, infusing it with elements of hip-hop, jazz, and soul. Albums like Ancient Future and A Matter of Time have earned him global recognition, with the latter receiving a Grammy nomination for Best Reggae Album. As the founder of In.Digg.Nation Collective, he has not only shaped his own career but also paved the way for a new generation of Jamaican artists. With his sharp lyricism, socially aware storytelling, and forward-thinking production, Protoje continues to redefine what reggae can be, staying true to its roots while pushing it into the future. // Discover more on Spotify…

Pusha Preme

“Any significant success or achievement is based on a tale of tenacious struggle, unwavering determination, and a passion strong enough to endure and strive.” This sentiment rings true for rap talent Pusha Preme. “Red Oktober” encapsulates brooding and mysterious energy that intends to surf the listener’s deepest, most profound thoughts. A purveyor of haunting atmospherics, lush textures, and silky-smooth beats, Pusha’s music is honest, biographical, and implacable… The Bronx New York-based singer-producer Pusha Preme has been making waves with his delicate blend of heartfelt melodies; Goal-oriented lyrics, and harmonies that reel you in like a fish on a hook. Above all, Pusha’s music is often praised for its high intimacy and familiar themes that find their way to a special place in the listener’s heart.” // Discover more on Spotify…

SHWAYZE

“Shwayze is an American artist known for blending hip-hop and alternative sounds with laid-back vibes and a unique perspective. Since his debut, Shwayze has consistently captivated audiences with his relatable storytelling, delivering both feel-good anthems and introspective tracks. His latest album, Shwaycation, showcases his dedication to pushing creative boundaries while staying true to the essence of his music. Beyond his musical career, Shwayze has ventured into new creative territories, such as launching his premium pre-roll company, Shway Sticks, and pursuing exciting television and film projects. As an independent artist, Shwayze continues to carve his path with authenticity, evolving from a beachside vibe-maker to a cultural staple in the modern music scene…” // Discover more on Spotify…

Steph Ocho

Steph Ocho is a Haitian artist and songwriter blending Afrobeat, R&B, and contemporary sounds into a style that’s both fresh and globally appealing. Known for tracks like WOAH, Omoge, and Kontrol, he seamlessly fuses rhythmic Afro influences with modern production. His debut EP Eureka showcased his innovative approach, including the standout track Baller. With a growing international fanbase, Steph Ocho continues to push boundaries, creating music that’s as infectious as it is meaningful. // Discover more on Spotify…