Hidden Gems: Here Are 20 Tracks We Love Right Now You Might've Missed
From the UK to the US and everywhere in between, here's our music round-up for gems you might've missed.
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"Give Up The Fear" - Nia Smith
After much anticipation, UK singer-songwriter and instrumentalist Nia Smith has finally shared her debut single, "Give Up The Fear". Featuring a classic neo-soul and jazz-inspired instrumental and songwriting that harkens back to the late Amy Winehouse's Frank days—"Give Up The Fear" is equal parts retro and timeless. If the rest of her upcoming release slate sounds half as good as this, we're in for a treat. Nia Smith is undoubtedly one to watch for the remainder of 2024
"Love Riddim" - oakland, Wilfred & Joe James
Last month, the ultimate "if you know, you know" spitter Joe James teamed up with UK beat-making titans oakland and Wilfred to release a sharp, concise six-track EP dubbed Love Riddims. This project pulls from the soul-sampling playbook with a reinvigorated vigour, breathing new life into classic sounds. The title track, "Love Riddim", does precisely what you'd expect: blur the lines between grime and R&B. Our only complaint is that we wish the track was longer. Thankfully, the replay button will do for now.
"hold up" - sasha keable
South London singer-songwriter Sasha Keable has made a stellar comeback with her latest single, "Hold Up", ushering in a new era brimming with exceptional vocal talent and poignant lyricism. This marks her first solo release since her debut EP, Intermission (2021), and adds to her collaborative work with renowned artists like Jorja Smith and Maverick Sabre. Currently, "Hold Up" is bubbling under on TikTok, delving into deep-seated heartache. Produced by Charlie Pitts and Kent Jerome, the track is adorned with classic soul elements, yet it's Sasha Keable's nimble voice that truly captivates listeners
"HEAVEN" - Oscar #Worldpeace W/ Qendresa
Oscar #Worldpeace returned triumphantly to the UK rap scene last month with his stellar body of work, Mum, Pray for Your Son. The 10-track project saw the rhymer experiment with a slew of sounds, from alternative stateside hip-hop and soul-chopping cuts reminiscent of rap's golden age. Still, our favourite track was the Qendresa-assisted R&B number "Heaven", with its bubblegum chorus and jazz-tinged backdrop.
"It Is What It Is" - Rachel Chinouriri
Indie polymath Rachel Chinouriri's debut LP, What a Devastating Turn of Events, is a rip-roaring coming-of-age tale, boasting raw songwriting and replay-worthy head-nodders. Among its 14 tracks, "It Is What It Is" stands out as one of the gems Chinouriri hoarded until the album's release earlier this month. This self-produced track—created in collaboration with Leroy Clampitt—is a colourful, whistle-clad ode to shitty men.
"Shots" - Edája
Purpose-built for candlelight dinners with low lights and those late-night taxi rides home after a night out, the cloaked R&B sensation Edája returns with her new track, "Shots". Edája's latest single offers fans a tantalising glimpse into what we can assume will be her next project's direction. "Shots" showcases Edája's vocal elegance and features an infectious, minimalist beat courtesy of JayDottCee. The track possesses that signature earworm quality only Edája can provide, making it a perfect addition to her growing repertoire of quality music.
"Colour In Grey" - VimbAi-Rose
Stylish vocalist Vimbai-Rose re-emerged in late March with the grossly underrated Silva Lining EP—a heart-warming time capsule for the singer-songwriter's newborn nephew, draped in classic soul and traditional R&B. Standout song "Colour In Grey" is the star of the show for us, though, with its pensive lyrics and warm melodies.
"around the world" - nippa
Rising Tottenham crooner Nippa is back with another catchy tune for the summer sun. His run so far has been unbeatable—you couldn't walk around London in 2021 without hearing his breakout tune, "Situation". With his new track, "Around The World", Nippa more than proves he's far from a one-hit wonder. Produced by Show N Prove, "Around The World" features a glitzy instrumental with heavy bass, providing Nippa with the ideal canvas to showcase his signature womanising demeanour.
"WeDntMind" - marzi
If you're a fan of Alté Afro-fusion music, keep an eye on Marzi, a Nigerian-born, London-based artist. With his unique sound and velvety vocals—he's unmistakably forging his own path in the music industry. Demonstrating Marzi's distinctive style, "WeDntMind" seamlessly blends Afrobeats influences, drawing inspiration from his Nigerian heritage and Alté influences, resulting in an infectious and melodically captivating track. With each new release, Marzi pushes artistic boundaries by incorporating intricate ad-libs and harmonies, enhancing the richness of his music.
"nothing on you" - marie dahlstrom W/ odeal
Danish singer-producer Marie Dahlstrom joined forces with Afro-R&B singer Odeal and long-time collaborator Dan Diggas on her latest single, "Nothing On You". This soulful ballad, crafted by Dan, features a mellow yet evocative guitar arrangement and gentle drum grooves. Marie's introspective lyrics delve into the yearning for a profound emotional connection with a special someone who brings pure joy into their life. The song candidly explores the struggles of accepting one's position in an uncertain relationship and taking meaningful steps toward improvement. Paired with Odeal's smooth vocals, the duo create magic on this track.
"Tresspass Coat" - Niko B w/ dexter in the newsagent
Rapper and all-around funnyman Niko B is on the cusp of releasing his debut LP, Dog Eat Dog Food World, later this month. While we eagerly await its arrival, we have the dexter in the newsagent-assisted track "Trespass Coat" to tide us over. Produced by Mood Indigo and Jkarri, the track features Niko and dexter delivering a very Mike Skinner-esque slice of life over a dance-worthy instrumental.
"on track" - gabriella cole
Emerging from North London, musician and vocalist Gabriella Cole made her debut with her single "on track". Cole effortlessly explores themes of empowerment and self-assurance, offering a poignant reflection on the complexities of love. The song radiates a curated warmth, presenting a mesmerising blend of hazy R&B. Gabriella's vocals shine against a collage of vibrant synths and retro-inspired percussion, evoking a mood reminiscent of her R&B peers like Rochelle Jordan and Shay Lia.
"HOT TOPIC" - Ashley Iman
Paris-via-London artist Ashley Iman made a sensational impact last year with her viral hit "Marseille". Now, she's returning to captivate us once again with her latest release, "Hot Topic", a syrupy summer anthem. This new track showcases Iman's unique blend of elegance and a carefree attitude—firmly establishing that she's paving her own way in the music scene. With "Hot Topic", Iman continues to demonstrate her distinct style and undeniable talent, reminding us that she's here to stay.
"BUSSDoWN" - Len
South London's rogue rap punk Len has been feeding the streets with his recent project COBALT: SOMUCHMoRE. With a sea of standout tracks, we're loving "BUSSDoWN" the most. With its mosh-pit-ready refrain and catchy melody, "BUSSDOWN" represents the best of LEN and keeps the world awaiting his next musical chess move.
"please you" - Tianna
Hailing from South London, emerging R&B singer-songwriter Tianna burst onto the scene last year with her slept-on The Key Tellings EP, blending old-school '90s elements with moody calligraphy. Her most recent offering, "Please You", is an exciting introduction to what's on the horizon for Tianna. With smooth vocals and a nostalgic, electronic-glazed beat-work—"Please You" offers a perfect blend of new and old for UK R&B.
"Hold You Down" - Juls & Odeal
A-list producer Juls' debut 2024 release is none other than "Hold You Down"—a sizzling collaboration with Afro-R&B sensation Odeal, making his second appearance on this list. The pair's chemistry on the track exceeds all expectations, with Juls bringing forth a sultry, laid-back instrumental while Odeal lends his slick-talking melodies to the cut.
"Protect your Piece" - Melika w/ Cafil
Manchester-bred jazz singer Melika has released her debut track, "Protect Your Piece", alongside underground UK rapper Cafil. With spoken monologues, slick verses and witty wordplay, "Protect Your Piece" is truly a special track that melds the worlds of classic jazz, Melika's Iranian heritage and hip-hop. This one's not to be missed.
"Pluto" - Raveena
After a two-year musical hiatus, Queens singer Raveena returns to take her fans on a trip to "Pluto". This hazy sunbeam of track is your typical Raveena affair—but that's what we love about it. With its kaleidoscopic songwriting and carefree nature, "Pluto" is a dreamy love-drunk ode to spirituality.
"Pick Up the Phone" - beingatpeace
French-Congolese singer beingatpeace is truly a hidden gem. With only a few low-key SoundCloud drops to her name, her debut single "Pick Up the Phone" lovingly recalls Travis Scott, Quavo, and Young Thug's 2016 hit, infused with a neo-soul and jazzy twist. Her light, airy vocals seamlessly blend with the instrumental, and her catchy refrain leaves us eager to see what beingatpeace does next
"Vision (Remix)" - Qing madi & Chlöe
Teenage Nigerian singer-songwriter Qing Madi has teamed up with US pop-R&B star Chlöe for the remix of her breakthrough track "Vision". With notes of Afropop, contemporary R&B, and dance-ready rhythms throughout, Qing Madi and Chlöe's chemistry shines throughout this two-minute scorcher.