When it comes to black women in music, history shows that music and entertainment have always been a vehicle for much more. Decades before our modern day icons, ie. the Beyoncé‘s and Rihannas of the world, we had Ma Rainey, Josephine Baker and Bessie Smith. These three women gave birth to a new era in jazz music that led a movement in honor of the freedom and expression of the Black woman, in spite of the many hurdles we encountered. From sexism to racism, in 1920 many people didn’t believe Black women deserved to be heard. Through music these women were able to break barriers of all kinds and let it be known that women can do it just as good, if not better, than any man can.
Now, nearly a century later – it’s beautiful to see the fine thread of activism, body positivity, and freedom embodied by our current artists. Truth be told, black women have always been the blueprint, and there’s nothing like watching our artistry evolve. That said, it’s only right to showcase those stepping up and showing out in 2023. Here are a few music girlies to watch and support all 2023:
Jozzy
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While Jozzy is no stranger to writing for some of your favorite artists like Billy Ray Cyrus (“Old Town Road”), 21 Savage (“Mr. Right Now”), and Beyoncé (“Virgo’s Groove”), she’s new to being the voice behind the mic. You know your favorite, 90’s inspired R&B love songs? Jozzy is probably the woman behind the pen. Born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, Jozzy’s career took off in the early 2010s after famed producer Timbaland recruited her for a collaboration and she’s been giving us the feels ever since. The veteran singer-songwriter made headlines in 2022 after being the first artist signed to Diddy’s Love Records label imprint under Motown strictly for R&B artists. Her newly released EP, “Songs For Women, Free Game for N***as”, showcases her passion on a whole new level and you won’t be disappointed.
Lu Kala
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Lusamba Vanessa Kalala, better known as Canadian songstress Lu Kala, is serving up a whole new image to “your fave pop star” sprinkled in glitter and gold. The Congolese born beauty definitely has a natural it factor, sporting her signature bright orange hair and Y2K fashion to compliment her bubbly personality. After performing her debut single “DCMO (Don’t Count Me Out)” at the Canadian Music Week in 2019, Lu Kala signed to Sony Music’s British distribution company, AWAL. She recently scored her first entry onto the Billboard Hot 100 in February from her feature on Latto’s new single “Lottery”. Her debut EP “Worthy” is all about self-love and positive vibes. When you need a pick me up or want to dance all through the night, Lu Kala has got you covered.
Monaleo
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If you were waist deep in social media land during the pandemic like I was (side eye), then you’ve definitely heard Monaleo’s debut single “Beating Down Yo Block”. Released in February 2021, the single acted as a revenger record, after a bad breakup and officially introduced the world to the Houston native. Pivoting from her ambitions to be a funeral director, Monaleo channeled her energy into her music and delayed her education to pursue her music career full-time. This is for the pretty girls with a bad ass attitude to match. Her debut full-length project is expected to be released later this year.
Elaine
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Born and Raised in South Africa, R&B singer Elaine is making her mark on the U.S.music industry. She began her career like most, by uploading music to SoundCloud. After receiving positive traction on her debut EP, “Elements” in September 2019 and a feature on Spotify’s Radar program, she signed to Columbia records in 2020. Her musical style has been best described as trap-soul and Elaine cites Lauryn Hill as her biggest musical inspiration. Her EP was most notably nominated for best R&B/Soul album at the 26th South African Music Awards in 2020. Her newest single “Loving You” was recently released on March 17th.
Kali
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You may know her from the XXL’s 2022 Freshman class but Kali got her big start after her single “Do A bitch” went viral on TikTok in November 2020 and hasn’t let up since. She took advantage of the traction and a few months later released her first mixtape, “This Is Why They Mad Now” with a feature from Rico Nasty on her viral hit. Things continued to look up when she scored another viral hit with “MMM MMM” featuring Latto and Moneybagg Yo. In February 2022, she went on her first tour alongside Latto and Saucy Santana and the following month released her project “Toxic Chocolate” with features from Bia, Bleu, Latto and ATL Jacob.
