This year has been exciting for music lovers, packed with record-breaking moments, worldwide tours, epic diss battles and unforgettable halftime shows. It’s incredible how music keeps evolving and giving us experiences that stick with us.
As the year rolls on, a fresh wave of artists is popping up across different genres, catching the eyes and ears of both listeners and critics alike. To honor Black Music Month, check out these ten rising stars who are poised to shape the future of Black music.
MonoNeon
MonoNeon, born Dywane Eric Thomas Jr. in 1990 in Memphis, is a bassist and experimental musician celebrated for his fusion of funk and avant-garde styles. He gained fame through his dynamic YouTube performances and was among the last musicians to work with Prince.
He won a Grammy for his work on Nas’s 2020 album, King’s Disease, and has worked with notable artists like Mavis Staples, George Clinton, Pete Rock, Ne-Yo and Mac Miller. His innovative bass techniques and vibrant style have established him as a key figure in contemporary music.
Piper Page
Piper Page is a pop singer-songwriter from New York City, known for her fearless style and genuine storytelling. She’s built a faithful fan base by diving into themes like modern dating, travel and self-discovery with refreshing and direct perspectives.
Dubbed the “Bad Bitch with Commitment Issues,” she mixes catchy melodies with down-to-earth lyrics that truly capture the ups and downs of love and life in our fast-paced world.
Lauren Henderson
Lauren Henderson is a talented jazz singer from New York known for her fusion of Latin jazz, flamenco, R&B, and Afro-Caribbean influences. Born in 1986 in Marblehead, Massachusetts, she studied music and Hispanic studies at Wheaton College, later earning an Executive MBA from Brown University and IE Business School. Her music showcases her diverse heritage from Panama, Montserrat and the Caribbean, leading to performances in Spain, Mexico and South Africa.
As CEO of Brontosaurus Records, Henderson has released nine albums and an EP, with her songs featured in films like The Drowning and El Juego de Las Llaves. The Recording Academy recognized her as one of the top 10 jazz artists for her innovative blend of Latin American sounds. She consistently captivates audiences with her powerful voice and unique style.
Coffey Anderson
Coffey Anderson is a Texas-born country-pop singer-songwriter known for blending country and gospel music. He gained recognition by posting cover songs on YouTube and was a finalist on the reality TV singing competition, Nashville Star, in 2008. With over 20 years in the industry, he has released multiple albums, including his self-titled work and the patriotic song, Mr. Red, White, and Blue.
Coffey tours extensively and has performed at the Grand Ole Opry six times. In addition to music, he is expanding his brand through ventures like the Netflix reality show Country Ever After, and has a strong presence on TikTok and YouTube.
Kenny Sharp
Kenny Sharp, a singer-songwriter and producer from Washington, D.C., now based in Nashville, merges soul, R&B, funk, country, and hip hop into his unique style, “Brown Liquor Music.” Initially starting as a rapper, he now captivates audiences with soulful melodies and catchy rhythms, supported by live instrumentals.
His standout tracks include Renege, Stomp & Holler, and Coming Back to You, delivering electrifying performances reminiscent of legends like James Brown and Sly & the Family Stone. Recently, he won Nashville’s Lightning 100 Battle of the Bands and has performed at major festivals like Bonnaroo, establishing himself as a prominent voice in modern Americana and soul music.
Shwayze
Shwayze is an American rapper with a chill, beachy vibe. He shot to fame in 2008 with his debut album, Buzzin’, featuring hits like Buzzin and Corona and Lime, the latter reaching No. 23 on the Billboard Hot 100. Partnering with producer Cisco Adler, he toured extensively, including a notable run on the Vans Warped Tour.
Since then, he has released several albums and EPs, such as Shwayze Summer and Shway SZN, merging hip hop with reggae and alternative influences. In addition to music, Shwayze has appeared in various TV shows and films, including the reality show Buzzin’ on MTV. He continues to perform live and engage with fans worldwide.
Nia Allen
Nia Allen, a Dallas-based worship leader, recording artist, and author, is celebrated for her heartfelt gospel and contemporary Christian music. She developed her talent at Berklee College of Music and Azusa Pacific University, and has provided background vocals for artists like CeCe Winans and Nicole C. Mullen. Her popular singles, such as Wait, I’m In Love and Sunshine have distinguished her in the inspirational music genre.
In addition to her music, Allen is a prominent public speaker, having appeared at major events like Women of Faith and Living Proof Live with Beth Moore, engaging audiences nationwide.
Raehann Bryce-Davis
Raehann Bryce-Davis is a mezzo-soprano opera singer of Jamaican descent, born in Mexico and raised in Texas with her Canadian sisters. Her mother significantly influenced her journey into opera.
In April, she released her debut album, Evolution, showcasing her life experiences, including her family background, Jamaican heritage and her upbringing as a Black girl in a small Texas town, all leading up to her rise as a contemporary opera singer.
Aaron Childs
Los Angeles R&B artist Aaron Childs blends classic soul with modern beats. A multi-instrumentalist, he adds a unique touch to each song with his “soul nostalgia” style, characterized by smooth vocals and rich, vintage sounds.
With catchy tracks like OMW and Butterflies & Benefits, along with his collaborative EP No Rewrites, Childs is making a name for himself in the indie R&B scene.
Phillip-Michael Scales
Phillip-Michael Scales is a Nashville singer-songwriter celebrated for his unique “Dive Bar Soul,” blending indie rock with bluesy soul. A hard worker and devotee to his craft – he was raised with B.B. King, who affectionately called him “nephew” – Scales performed 308 times in Chicago in 2018.
His debut album, Sinner-Songwriter, gained significant attention in Europe and the U.S. in 2021. In 2022, his song Find a Way received national radio play and led to an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show.
Scales has performed alongside artists like Keb’ Mo’ and Caravan Palace, and his second album, Good to Be Here, was released on April 25th.
