We’ve got you covered with a few tracks to get you in a vibe before all the hustle and bustle comes your way.

Disclaimer: I seem to be stuck in a 90s R&B theme this month. Embrace it. You have been forewarned.

Let’s vibe out to some tracks by Aqyila, Lisa Banton, JRDN and ZeneSoul.

Let us know what you’re listening to, and be sure to check out the tunes below.   

“Hello” by Aqyila

How did we rate it?

BBBBB    Outstanding

I am completely smitten with this track. From the lyrics to the vocalist, I’m here for all of it. Aqyila’s words are decisive and deliver a message from her soul. The track speaks on returning to a semblance of the person she once was pre-relationship. Aqyila’s vocals are on par with the song— encompassing and come from within.

However, her full-bodied adlibs alone let me know there is way more to unearth here. The song lyrics are a standout lead character in a time where R&B verbiage isn’t treated the same as yesteryear—with pride, love, affection or messaging.

On the track, Aqyila says: “Words have the power to empower or destroy me,” and that is a personified description of the song. It’s a portal to newness, the opening of a new door and the launch of a fresh beginning. Aqyila understood the assignment.  

{https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k5t0RrijpHg}

“Jealous” by Lisa Banton

How did we rate it?

BBB    Good

Lisa Banton is an artist whose cadence and flow are reminiscent of the old-school R&B we know and love. What makes Banton worth the listen is her tender vocal delivery that can go beyond when she’s good and ready. She encompasses the sound of an era we love and have embedded roots with.

Banton’s new track, “Jealous” can easily be added to your playlist rotation. She usually comes out of the gates, beats banging, and vocals ready. Yet, on this track, she seems to remain low-key, even-toned and crisp. Even though it feels like somewhat of a short spin, the beauty of “Jealous” shines in Banton’s subdued vocals.      

{https://www.youtube.com/shorts/tHfh_Qava6U}

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“Call My Name” by JRDN

How did we rate it?

BBBBB    Outstanding

JRDN dropped a solid track with his new single “Call My Name.” Listening to him express his yearning desire for his love interest is sexy and rather smooth. Backed by a pulsating and danceable beat, you can’t go wrong with this one. It simply feels good. It’s that R&B you crave for.

As JRDN’s falsetto dips and dives on the chorus, you’ll find yourself in the middle of a sensual call and response. This song has been on heavy rotation since its release and has become a favoured selection. Give it a whirl. I’m sure it’s about to become a radio favourite as well.  

{https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TvwGKOJpfwQ}

“Pain, No Percocet” by Zenesoul

How did we rate it?

BBBBB    Outstanding

This track goes hard. ZeneSoul wasn’t playing when she put the pen on this one. Always ready to deliver, the Juno-nominated artist is serious when it comes to ballads. On her new release, “Pain, No Percocet,” Zenesoul speaks to the heart craving its desires, even when the pain weighs in more than the adoration. But is it worth it?

As Zenesoul bares her soul over a thumping bass line, you can feel the pull between overwhelming longing and utter heartbreak. And her vocal presentation brings the entire track to completion. I need more.  

{https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q23ynWShNSE}

ByBlacks Rating System:
BBBBB  Outstanding         

BBBB    Extremely Good   

BBB      Good 

BB        Challenged 

B          Don't bother listening