Every millennial is a sucker for a throwback jams party. Listening to your favorite comfort songs from the early 2000s is an undeniable guilty pleasure. It’s easy to stay obsessed with the music you’ve loved all your life, transporting you back to easier times. However, never venturing into the developing age of music will have you missing out on what could be your new favorite songs, albums or artists.
There’s a whole new generation of voices honoring the tradition of their respective genres while moving the movement forward with innovation and eccentricity. It’s worth it to step out of your comfort zone and give some smaller names a try, because every superstar was at one point unknown, too. Here are some new acts that are reminiscent of the major artists you’ve always loved.
If You Love Nina Simone, You’ll Love Baby Rose
30-year-old Baby Rose has a voice that feels far more wisened than her young age. It’s a voice that beckons from the pit of her stomach, much like soul music legend Nina Simone. Blurring gender and genre, the neo-soul artist is powerful and incomparable to her peers. She also keeps much of her private life away from public eye, in true Simone fashion.
If you Love Jhene Aiko, You’ll Love Raveena
More than a singer, Jhene Aiko is a spirit guide. Her music is sonically healing, channeling divinity as she shares the depths of her spiritual journey. A fairy come to life, indie soul songstress Raveena honors that very same dharma. Her music is transformative and euphoric, with a pitch-perfect falsetto untangling the metamorphosis of womanhood.
If You Love Solange, You’ll Love keiyaA
Solange digs deep into her spirit musically, singing ballads of self-discovery and healing. Newcomer keiyaA is just as honest and experimental, without compromising vocal ability. Her neo-soul music is dynamic and moving, with songs like “Do Yourself a Favor” and “Nu World Burdens” exploring self-worth and reclamation of power.
If You Love Jorja Smith, You’ll Love Amber Mark
R&B was revitalized when British songstress Jorja Smith came onto the scene. Her Drake co-sign and hit single “On My Mind” made her a household name. Now, fellow UK sister Amber Mark is making indie soul music that feels palpably familiar, the perfect soundtrack for any girl coming back home to herself. She’s open-hearted and luminous, currently set to open for Sabrina Carpenter on the next leg of her North American tour.
If You Love Erykah Badu, You’ll Love Greentea Peng
For the yogis and incense lovers, Erykah Badu is the greatest of all time. Her music has soundtracked so many spiritual awakenings, unafraid to be every color of herself. The UK’s Greentea Peng channels that same eccentricity, making soul music that sounds nothing like what else is out there. Singles like “Look To Him” and “Mr. Sun (miss da sun)” explore motherhood and divinity with a prowess that can’t be replicated.
If You Love Usher, You’ll Love Jordan Ward
Much like R&B legend Usher, Jordan Ward is as much of a talented dancer as he is a singer. The acts are undeniably similar, making euphoric music that is infectiously groovy. Ward has gained massive popularity for singles like “Lil Baby Crush” and “FAMJAM4000,” with his choreographed performances mirroring those of his R&B predecessors.
If You Love Missy Elliott, You’ll Love Leikeli47
Missy Elliott was doing it like no other female rapper was. With theatrics, wit and a whole lot of talent, she continues to stand as one of the most unique acts of her time. Leikeli47 is forwarding that path, using masked anonymity as a tactic to bring more focus to her flaming hot pen game. Songs like “Attitude” and “Wash & Set” celebrate the glory of Black womanhood, as she shines in a palpable sense of confidence.
If You Love NERD, You’ll Love Paris Texas
Every hot girl had a favorite NERD song. It was impossible not to! Pharrell’s Virginia Beach-based band had the ability to blend rap and rock in a way that was an industry phenomenon, paving way for artists like Paris Texas to be just as brash and experimental. The bestie duo make music that’s perfect for a vigorous workout, as it’s lively and high energy while witty and boisterous. Their live shows are equally as unforgettable, with mosh pits and vivacious sing-alongs proving they’re next in line of greats.
If You Love Doja Cat, You’ll Love Iyla
Doja Cat is undeniably talented. She made the world fall in love with her thanks to her ability to rap and sing at equal measure. LA-based songstress Iyla delivers that same versatility with poise and grace, with songs like “FOH” and “Strut” serving as empowering and electrifying anthems of girlhood. She blurs the lines of pop and hip hop, building a devoted fanbase from her pristine visuals and stunning visuals.