New Music Friday Roundup: UMI, Ledisi, Khamari, and More
Another Friday is here, and with it comes a flood of incredible new music to carry you through the weekend. This week’s releases offer a rich tapestry of sounds, from genre-bending albums to soulful, classic singles. Here’s a roundup of some of the best new drops that have caught our attention.
First up, the introspective singer UMI has released her new project, "people stories." Produced almost entirely by V-Ron, the album is a brilliant showcase of her artistic versatility, as she effortlessly jumps in and out of various genres while maintaining her signature calming presence.
New Zealand-born songstress Janine delivers her new 16-track project, "Pain and Paradise." The album is a comprehensive body of work that includes some of her beloved earlier singles, such as "Best Thing" and "Loving Me," alongside a host of brand-new material for fans to dive into.
The legendary Ledisi blesses us with a new, deeply soulful single, a cover of the classic "What A Difference A Day Made." Her powerful rendition gives you the timeless vibes of the golden lounge singer era, channeling the spirit of icons like Etta James with every note.
For those looking for a quick burst of energy, Jae Stephens has released her new EP, "SELLOUT II." The 6-track project is an upbeat, pop-styled collection that makes for a nice, quick listen at only 18 minutes long.
One of the most exciting discoveries of the week comes from Kadeem Tyrell, who collaborated with producer/DJ P-rallel and producer Wilfy D on "The Missing Part" EP. This project is a stunning blend of R&B, Jazz, Afrobeat, and house music, creating a sound you didn't know you were looking for. It's an innovative and deeply appreciated effort.
Singer Devon Culture offers up his smooth new single, "Slow It Down." He provides a soulful performance over a laid-back beat that features a fantastic tempo change halfway through, keeping the listener engaged.
Finally, Khamari closes out our list with his new album, "To Dry a Tear." This 11-track project is a deeply emotional journey, held together by a consistent and immersive soulful vibe from start to finish. It's the perfect album to get lost in.
