OK, as promised, here are the top ten albums of 2023.
If you fancy some UK R&B, or maybe some afrobeats fused with smooth R&B, futuristic/dreamy pop or some good old hard-hitting bars, well you’re definitely in the right place! Just get to it and hit play on each beauties below! If you’re feeling any of the collections, please like, or better still, leave a comment below.
Be sure to check NEW LEASE MUSIC’s Top Ten Singles of 2023 tomorrow. I hope you enjoy the albums below…
Hey, Hey, Hey! Happy New Year guys! I hope you had an eventful festive period.
It’s that time of the year NEW LEASE MUSIC ramage through and pick out the top releases of 2023! Today, we start off with the best music videos featured on the blog in the past year. So why not sit back and check them out – oh and if you’re really digging these videos, why not leave a comment below.
Be sure to look out for NEW LEASE MUSIC’s Top Ten Albums of 2023 later today!
10. Sometimes Relax – LLAMAN x Pitch 92
9. Freak Out – Jessica Wilde
8. Face Off Part 1 – Quincy
7. PTSD – Dax
6. Iron Right – DJ Drama, Boosie Badazz & OMB Peezy ft Trouble
ANAIIS shares the deluxe version of her critically acclaimed album ‘this is no longer a dream’ which includes remixes from Sam Henshawe, Jamilah Barry, DJ Lulo, Years and Years and Karen Nyame KG. The recent remixes are in addition to the collaborations on the original 2022 album (Chronixx, Topaz Jones, Jay Prince, Sjava +++)
The London based artist has spent a lifetime moving around the globe soaking up a multitude of cultures and influences that bring an innovative and genre-defying style to her artistic endeavours. Following the releases of her EP ‘Before Zero’ and her project ‘Darkness At Play’, anaiis further raised the bar with her self released debut album ‘this is no longer a dream,’ a cathartic and brave long player which was released in 2021. The album was well-received by notable critics and publications – she featured as the cover star on PUSS PUSS and FACT magazine – citing her as one of the most exciting and innovative voices in contemporary R&B. Alongside the critical acclaim, anaiis is an accomplished live performer who has been invited as a special guest at concerts by the likes of Erykah Badu, Ibeyi, Daniel Caesar, Nick Hakim and more, as well as recent headline performances in Dakar and Berlin which have all been met with rapturous praise.
Occupying the sweet spot between music, fashion and high art, anaiis has collaborated and contributed to notable works of art with the V&A, Camden Arts Centre, Palais De Tokyo, White Cube, Julien Creuzet, JulianKnxx and more. In fashion, she has featured in a Paul Smith campaign, collaborated with Valentino for her noteworthy ColorsxStudio performance, was dressed in Alexander McQueen for her Harpers Bazaar feature, as well as brand collaborations with Dr Martens, Levis, Paco Rabanne’s Millions x Vice x NTS, and more. She has also worked creatively with Ib Kamara, Nell Kalonji, Rafael Pavarotti, Campbell Addy amongst others on hers and other projects.
Now anaiis set the bar high, finishing 2023 on a high note with the deluxe version of her critically acclaimed album, ‘this is no longer a dream’. Why not check it out below…
Must Listens: undulation; ultraviolet, counts; vanishing . (chipmunk); cry in your sleep; reverie; make it easier;
Emerging as a formidable force in the contemporary R&B scene, MYA CRAIG is ready to take the music world by storm with her enchanting melodies and soulful vocals with latest single ‘It’s Up’.
After garnering accolades for her 2018 single, 4AM, Mya caught the attention of none other than Dreamville’s own first lady, Ari Lennox. Pinned as an ‘artist to watch’ by BBC Radio Leeds & Nada’s Link Up TV, Mya has delved into the world of music, experimenting with various sounds and taking inspiration from an eclectic array of artists, including legendary producer Rodney Jenkins (known as Darkchild), Brandy, and Mariah Carey.
‘It’s Up’ sees Mya effortlessly gliding between sultry verses and powerful, uplifting choruses, delivering a performance that is both soulful and incredibly fun. Her vocal range is on full display, and you can feel the genuine passion and emotion behind every word she sings. Her journey, infused with emotion and a hint of nostalgia, has led her to craft a unique sound that captures the essence of R&B’s golden era while infusing it with a modern twist.
Speaking on ‘It’s Up’ Mya says “I just want to make people feel good again! ‘It’s Up’ is all about celebrating oneself after feeling down for a period of time. Prepping yourself up even when times or life can get hard, this song is supposed to remind myself and others that something greater is coming on the other side. A big emphasis and ode to self realisation and power, something no one can take away from you”.
Mya has created an exciting buzz from teasing her new music on TikTok, she has garnered over 800,000 views and an impressive 80,000 likes in a short space of time. What sets Mya Craig apart is her ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia while simultaneously delivering a fun and wistful style.
Her music is not only a testament to her incredible vocal talent but also a reflection of her deep passion for the art form. With a sound that fuses nostalgia and modernity, Mya Craig is set to leave an indelible mark in the music industry. Check out the video for ‘IT’s Up’ below…
Introducing London-based R&B talent DANNI TESFAY with her exquisite single titled ‘Believe In Love’. The track comes on the back of Danni’s well-received summer single ‘Hit The Road’, as well as recent support from BBC Radio 1 and Reprezent Radio. Written by Danni and progressive R&B babe Kemi Ade, and produced by Grammy Award-nominated musician Likklejay – who has also worked with Chris Brown, Capella Grey, and Kojey Radical, among others, with Ramera Abraham (Adele, Little Mix, TianaMajor9) engineering the track – ‘Believe In Love’ is an emotionally resonant offering that speaks to the universal apprehension of plunging into the depths of love, with Danni trying to assure her lover that they are safe and secure with her.
Birthed out of Platoon’s latest ‘She Runs The Board’ program and writing camp held in London, where Danni Tesfay connected with producer Likklejay and songwriter Kemi Ade, ‘Believe In Love’ is an exquisite R&B offering driven by captivating guitar arrangements, lush synths, and minimalist drum patterns excellently crafted by Likklejay, over which Danni offers a yielding and enthralling vocal performance. The track is further enriched by some very relatable songwriting from Danni and Kemi Ade. Thematically about trying to love someone with deep-seated fears of fully embracing love, the song is Danni’s support for everyone struggling with falling in love and letting go, as she delves into the intricate complexities of love and the reservations that arise from past disappointments.
Recommended if you like the sounds of Kehlani, Victoria Monet, or Kiana Ledé, Danni Tesfay is an exciting new talent that is bringing a breath of fresh air to the UK R&B scene. Acclaimed by industry insiders like Victoria Jane on BBC Radio 1, and Rellik on Reprezent Radio, she stands out as a rising star in a crowded musical landscape. Hailing from Coventry and now thriving in the vibrant heart of London, this British Eritrean songstress is showing that she’s a force to be reckoned with. Drawing inspiration from iconic acts such as Destiny’s Child, Mya, and Cassie, Danni Tesfay seamlessly fuses classic R&B elements with her innovative flair to create mesmerizing soundscapes. Whether you’re in the mood for alluring melodies or poignant ballads, Danni is the artist that will enchant your senses. Why not check out the video for ‘Believe In Love’ below…
New Lease Music 