In The Spotlight

Wafia – “I’m Good”

Although born in The Netherlands, this singer and songwriter is based in Brisbane, Australia. She’s studied biomedicine at University but, finding it somewhat monotonous, she started writing songs. In 2014 she uploaded a cover of Mario’s “Let Me Love You”, which went viral. In 2015 her single “Heartburn”, from her debut EP “XXIX”, received praise from producer Pharrell Williams.

With a buoyant beat and a brazen bass line, her latest single radiates spicy confidence and tenacity, while still maintaining a cheery, upbeat side in its dynamic chorus. Blending touches of contemporary EDM with a generous layer of 80s-style retro vibes, this breakup song covers all ends of the emotional spectrum, with her sugared, euphonic vocals completing the catchy, poptastic sound.

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes

In The Spotlight

Acantha Lang – “SugarWoman”

Born and raised in the musical hotspot of New Orleans, this songstress grew up surrounded by Blues and Soul. Carrying her melodic heritage, she moved to New York and performed at iconic venues like The Harlem Grill. Next she moved to London, UK, to hone her charismatic tonality. Inspired by legends like Aretha Franklin and Nina Simone, she developed a distinctive Blues and Soul sound.

The silky-smooth groove which is her latest single gently strokes your eardrums straight from the first note. The laid-back beat and mellow guitar plucks give an easygoing vibe, while some vintage-touched, breezy brass adds an uplifting aesthetic to this gorgeous sip of saturated Soul. With her intimate and lavishly sparkling vocals fondling the senses, this honeyed jam feels like a warm embrace.

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website

In The Spotlight

Bianca Blanc – “Step Right Up”

Hailing from Pretoria in South-Africa, this talented and passionate singer/songwriter and vocal coach has already made an impression on the local live music scene, playing festivals such as KKNK and Aardklop and opening for South-African acts Jesse Clegg and Wonderboom. Building her vibrant and catchy tunes on a guitar or an ukulele, she released her refreshing debut single “Butterflies” in 2017.

Her latest single is like a vitalizing musical puppy; adorable, happiness-inducing and cute, but with an occasional friendly bite. It starts with her chirpy ukulele and an airy beat, but soon the song comes alive with an incredibly addictive hook, rolling drums and blazing brass. Fusing  her sugary-sweet, yet powerful vocals with the invigorating melody, this is a jubilantly joyous earworm.

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes

In The Spotlight

Donnell Isaac – “Table”

This award-winning Neo-soul singer, songwriter and actor got his initial musical experience aged 9, while singing in a church choir and developed a passion for it. He took those gospel sounds and the experience of a rough childhood dipped in poverty and chiseled it into a silky, melodic soul/R&B blend of his own, leading to his solo debut in 2008 and performances at music festivals.

Taken from his EP “Love Changes”, his latest single seems to reach deep down into your soul and touch your heart. The velvety violins, mild percussion and laid-back piano give the song a classic, analog soul sound, while the vintage hues in the harmonies and his sultry, soothing vocals flirt amorously with the sensual melody and serves up this spread of steamy and seductive smooth grooves.

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes

In The Spotlight

Rina Sawayama – “Cherry”

Although born in Japan, this British singer, songwriter and model has been living in the UK since she was five. Despite studying politics, psychology and sociology, she opted for a career in music and modeling. As a model she’s featured in Dazed and in the Versus x Versace campaign. As an acclaimed artist she released her debut single “Sleeping In Waking” in 2013 and her inaugral EP “RINA” late 2017.

Her latest single is an upbeat, happiness-inducing piece of R&B/pop with nostalgic influences. With a buoyant 90s-reminiscent beat and early-noughties cheerful synths, all finished with a contemporary glaze, it has a definite Indian Summer feel. Singing about a pansexual romance, her sugary, shimmering vocals are glistening on the musical waves and put the cherry on this tasty pop cake.

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Wikipedia | iTunes

In The Spotlight

Ruby Velle – “Fighter”

This Atlanta-based powerhouse soulstress has been performing her vintage-tinted soul sound for over a decade. Born in Canada, she was raised in Gainesville, Florida, where she formed her critically acclaimed band Ruby Velle & The Soulphonics in 2006. Centered around her versatile vocals, ranging from sultry soulful to vigorous funk, they’re known for their electrifying shows.

Taking her dynamic funky, southern soul and Motown-inspired style on a solo outing, her new single packs quite a punch. Although wrapped in a more contemporary coat, the fiery vein of retro soul, doused in a bit of blues, still pervades. A powerful beat, peppy piano and a touch of lively horns accompany her commanding vocals and make this a truly exhilarating groove full of attitude and moxie.

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes