One of my favorite things to do is listen to artists I’ve never heard before. It’s so satisfying to find an artist that you resonate with, whether you’re needing positive energy, inspiration, or a solid crying session. Music can bring the emotions you need at that moment.

There are many talented, upcoming R&B acts who deserve recognition, or at least a listen. Listed below are four, creative artists with distinct talents and sounds that the world should keep in mind.  

It took only ten seconds of “I Hope,” Lizzie Berchie’s recent single, to convince me to download her music. The song is gorgeous, with delicate elements of jazz and soul. The lyrics express Lizzie Berchie’s hope that this relationship she cherishes will last and remain wonderful. Hailing from Newham, London, Lizzie Berchie released her first EP, Under the Sun, in 2022. The deluxe edition of the album, with three additional tracks, was released in 2023. Already, the 24-year-old has thousands hooked and wanting more. Under the Sun is both soothing and stirring. Lizzie Berchie’s emotive voice is teeming with warmth and depth. The neo soul production is unhurried and rich, enhancing Berchie’s voice and the mood of each song. Her lyrics illustrate her desire to prioritize herself and grow from the inside out, have good communication in her relationships, and her yearning to acknowledge the horrors that have been afflicted on innocent people due to racism and ignorance. All things said, Lizzie Berchie displays incredible promise with her gorgeous voice, luxurious production, and thoughtful lyrics.  

Raised in Oxford, England, 21-year-old Elmiene, who originally had a plan of attaining a security guard license, was launched into a music career that he had never expected to have. In 2021, after Elmiene’s viral cover of D’Angelo’s “Untitled (How Does It Feel),” he received the attention of Lil Silva. Soon after, they recorded a song, “About Us,” from Lil Silva’s album, Yesterday Is Heavy. That same year, the music director of LV menswear and a good friend of the late Virgil Abloh, Benji B, met Elmiene while recording at the same studio in London. When Elmiene shared some of his music with him, the song “Golden” stood out to Benji and was later used in Virgil’s fashion show in remembrance of him. “Golden” details the feeling of looking back on the past with fondness and being hesitant to leave it behind. Since then, Elmiene has dropped his first EP, EL-MEAN, and a single titled “Mad At Fire.” As of now, Elmiene’s music, made especially impactful by his heartfelt voice, conveys Elmiene’s grief over the life he had originally planned for himself, and stories of love and heartbreak. With a beautiful voice, smooth and relaxing production, and genuine lyrics, Elmiene has a bright future.

Since 2020, Fana Hues has been gifting the world with soulful, enchanting music made even sweeter by her satiny voice. The 28-year-old is from Pasadena, California, and was raised in a home full of musically gifted people that still influence her to this day. Fana Hues gained significant attention when she was featured on Tyler the Creator’s album, Call Me If You Get Lost. However, even before this collaboration, Fana Hues released her 2020 album, Hues, a striking collection that ponders both the blissful and regretful bits of a past relationship. In 2022, Fana Hues released flora + fana, as well as a deluxe version of the album. Within flora + fana, Fana Hues delved into the anguishes of a breakup, but also reminded herself that she will heal and is worthy of happiness. At times mournful and lonesome and other times radiant and hopeful, flora + fana is further proof of her talent and dedication to her craft. Nurturing her skills and sound since she was a child, Fana Hues is an R&B artist to lookout for.

Idman has dropped three singles and two single albums, Hate and Still, since 2021 and already, she exudes potential. Before attending college in Portland, 29-year-old Idman was born in Canada and raised by her Somali parents in Toronto, North Carolina, and Kenya. Her experiences in the places she has lived have prompted her to think deeply about the world and express those musings in her music. In “Down For It,” Idman’s debut single, she upholds her willingness to endure as an artist, despite her fears, negative opinions, and the diverse trials of life. With lyrics demonstrating perseverance, production guided by a strong bass, and Idman’s confident delivery, the song is ideal for times when you wish to feel encouraged. Outside of her debut, Idman continues to be engaging in songs where she admits to feelings of bitterness after a breakup, as well as songs exploring themes of pride in her identity and culture. With music that is lively and enjoyable to listen to, Idman has demonstrated her ability to get personal, while also being accessible and relatable to listeners.

It’s worthwhile, finding an artist that becomes a lasting favorite, or even a song that arrives just when you need it. Everyone has preferences when it comes to music, including those who enjoy the same genre. Regardless, each of these four R&B artists has something great to offer.