My boss said that I write like I’m a news anchor from the ’40s. After racking my brain trying to write a killer opening, I decided that this was the final result. Scroll down to check out these 6 tracks that have been on my mind recently, featuring smooth and soulful acts like Kenny Sharp and Ben Nakhaima, which made for stellar additions to my R&B playlists, and Indie bops from Aze and Tipling Rock that make for great listens on those picturesque Autumn afternoon walkabouts.

Kabusa Oriental Choir

Soso

The Kabusa Oriental Choir is a group of vocalists from Nigeria who are known for covering popular songs. Led by Austin Chinemezu Nwamara, the group had reached peak popularity with the iconic Valentine’s Day track, “Valentine is Coming”. Soso is a cover of Omah Lay’s song of the same title, where the choir creates a rhythmic soundscape that elevates the choir’s vocals. Check this one out and add it to your playlists if you haven’t already!

Kenny Sharp

Flesh & Blood

Flesh & Blood is the new track from Kenny Sharp, showcasing his soulful sound that he dubs “Brown Liquor Music”. Shifting away from rapping, Kenny has evolved into utilising an Alt Pop sound that better shows us his vocal talent, backed by airy organs and a smooth beat. You should give this a save to your playlists if you are interested in acts like Pharrell’s N.E.R.D. and Smino.

Matt McKnzi

Moon

Matt McKnzi, a Neo-Soul and R&B artist hailing from New England, had released his second single for his upcoming debut LP, titled “Ghost Stories”. This track, “Moon”, covers themes of lovers that are no longer on the same plane against a light acoustic guitar and smooth basslines, exploring an Indie-Pop soundscape compared to the Neo-Soul-oriented “Roar”. This is a must-have for playlists with a laid-back vibe emphasising stunning vocals.

Tipling Rock

No Next Time

Los Angeles-based Tipling Rock is back for the first time since 2022, with their new track with the name “No Next Time” and a Miami-Vice-style music video. This peaceful Bedroom-Pop track has a chorus that keeps me coming back, with a funky guitar backdrop that elevates the vocals very well. This is a perfect addition to your beach playlists, and if that’s not your style, try it out in your road trip mix!

Aze

Mother, Did I Make You Proud?

The Austrian duo, Aze, are about to take the world by storm with their upcoming Indie Dream Pop EP. Their focus track, “Mother, Did I Make You Proud?” follows addictive vocals over a groovy bassline and vibrant drum patterns, creating a vibe that is hard to come across from any other artist. This track makes for a great match for those upbeat Indie playlists that make your head bop.

Ben Nakhaima

Will U Remember Me Cover

Ben Nakhaima covers UMI’s “Remember Me” in his latest track, following his 2022 EP, “The Duality of Love”. Ben offers a smooth and charming sound in this track, with an acoustic guitar that creates a base to highlight his vocal technique, creating a feel that captivates and leaves everyone in love. Fans of R&B artists among the likes of Daniel Caesar and Giveon should add this to their playlists.