Inspired by the early 00’s R&B feel-good sound, ‘I Spy’ features a captivating appearance from the newest addition to the 916 Collective, Nayyah, alongside singer/songwriter/producer, Nikz. The dynamic vocals of both members play their roles in telling a story of budding attraction and shy infatuation.
Speaking on the inspiration behind the track, Nayyah shares “I wanted people to feel that fun 2000s R&B type vibe when listening to the song. I know that there are shy girls like me out there who can relate to seeing someone from across the room that catches your eye so I wanted us to recreate that moment from both perspectives on the record.”
The accompanying visuals, directed by illpressions and Cali, draw inspiration from the iconic Alicia Keys record ‘You Don’t Know My Name,’ adding an extra layer of nostalgia to the overall experience setting ‘I Spy’ up to be recognised as yet another masterfully executed release from the Oxford based collective.
The single is out today (25th January) across various music platforms. Check out the video below…
East London singer and songwriter ÄYANNA rings in the holiday season with her incredible Christmas single ‘Christmas All Year’. Inspired by R&B legends like Mariah Carey and Destiny’s Child’s Christmas offerings, this festive bop showcases Äyanna’s inimitable vocal range and pop girlie sensibilities with a sprinkling of Christmas cheer. The single arrives last Friday (8th December) with a sparkling, festive video directed by Jodeci Zimmerman of Äyanna in a glistening winter wonderland.
Speaking on the single, she shares: “Christmas All Year is a fun and feel-good song that is perfect for anyone who wants to feel loved up, and like the main present at Christmas time. It felt like second nature to talk about being the center of attention at Christmas because this is how I’ve always felt every year, being the only daughter in my family. I especially love the idea of extending that dynamic into a romantic relationship.
What I love about the song is that it feels old school and new school at the same time. I enjoyed paying homage to Rnb legends like Destiny’s Child and Mariah Carey, who made christmas classics, whilst adding my own personal touch.”
This track follows her ground-breaking debut In ‘A Perfect World’ EP released earlier this year via LVRN. The striking body of work arrived amidst of a slew of early co-signs for the young artist from celebrated artists such Stormzy, Summer Walker, SPINALL to name a few. The towering body of work centered around her signature mosaic of pop, infused with R&B, soul and beyond quickly earned her large acclaim and established her own uncharted lane in music with support from Complex, The Independent, Crack, The Line of Best Fit, Teen Vogue, +44 Amazon, Spotify RADAR UK and more.
Äyanna first captured the attention of the internet and industry tastemakers, through her now viral home videos that showcased her vocal prowess. She now joins the ranks of celebrated LVRN artists such as 6LACK, Summer Walker, DVSN, Davido, SPINALL, Baby Tate and more. With the support of the groundbreaking label and collective, it’s undeniable that Äyanna will establish herself even further as a force in music and beyond.
Upcoming R&B sensation OPELSINGS comes through with latest single, ‘Winter Love’, just in time for the festive season.
Produced by Terrance ‘Smokey’ Ivory, the sultry slow jam boasts a heavy bassline where Opel delivers her signature smooth, seductive vocals that’s tearing up the UK R&B scene right now.
‘Winter Love’ is the first single from her upcoming EP…be sure to look out for that…but for now, kick back and pin your ears back for this soothing joint…
Rising Neo-Soul artist GIORGIA-MAY graces her presence with the enchanting single, ‘Intertwine’. This fierce and soulful track showcases Giorgia’s unique ability to capture the intensity of lust and the longing to entangle oneself in another. Together in collaboration with Berlin-based producer Tuftyhead, she has built the song with a non-traditional structure, with the chorus shapeshifting its instrumentation throughout the track. From horns to synthesizers, jazzy electric guitar to R&B-infused vocals, ‘Intertwine’ will mesmerize you with its captivating arrangement.
Giorgia-May describes the meaning & creative process behind ‘Intertwine’: “Witnessing this song come to life has been such a pleasure. It started with some intimate lyrics and jazzy chords, and the introduction of the horns and the full instrumentation has really brought the whole vibe to life. When I sing this song I feel empowered, like I’m reclaiming my femininity. The freedom to share my sensual thoughts is something that I don’t take for granted. So many women are shamed just for having such desires. Expressing this in myself helps me to build confidence in myself as a strong woman, and ultimately I want this to empower others to feel good in themselves. It’s natural to want to love and be loved in return, there is no shame in that and there shouldn’t be shame in wanting to sing about it.”
‘Intertwine’ was released on Friday, 24th November. Why not check it out below…
Based in London, with roots in Kenya and Uganda, BEATRICE KATEME-BYAKIKA writes heartfelt songs about life, love and all the bittersweet spaces in between. Simple yet deep, the soul songstress’ past compositions creates a open space for true introspection, imagination and wonder.
Her latest single, ‘Sweetness’ adds to the her extensive discography of pure escapism. The alluring piano keys, immediately joined by the soulful backdrop and Beatrice’s titillating vocals, serves as smooth invitation for two lovers to ignite a life of pure and endless passion.
A seasoned artist with a career spanning over more than a decade, Beatrice had a first break with the song ‘Nilizaliwa’, which was featured on BBC by the late Charlie Gillett which solidified her place as a songwriter. Her debut album, ‘Coming Home’ – a 2008 tribute to her multicultural heritage – became the spark that ignited several other projects, including the 2014 album, ‘Naked’ under the moniker Carmine Rose. In these releases you can hear echoes of East African and world music blending with classic pop and R&B, occasionally taking centre-stage when the artist sings in different dialects.
In spite of the recent global adversities and much to the pleasure of her growing fanbase, Beatrice released several singles in 2020. Amongst them was ‘Slow Down’, a duet with fellow diaspora artist Gizzy Manora, which received radio play both in Europe and North America. With a newfound creative drive and backed by a prolific relationship with producer Ivan Anchant, she is continuing on a path of artistic development and sharing new music in 2023.
‘Sweetness’ was released from 4th November via various music platforms . Will you allow yourself to indulge in this treat?
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