5 Emerging R&B Artists To Watch in 2020

If 2019 was the year of resurgence for R&B, 2020 will be its domination. Discover the up-and-coming artists who are reimagining the genre in every way.

1. Jayla Darden

Nothing short of smooth and melodic, Jayla Darden arises as a sonic ode to 90’s R&B. With a candid pen, soft vocal cadence, and vulnerable demeanor, Darden is bringing the evolving genre back to its roots. In late 2019, the Detroit native debuted with Onto Something, a nostalgic seven-track EP with hints of new age trap. The 21-year old also brings new meaning to self-starter, writing, mixing, and producing all her own songs. Newly signed to Interscope Records, Darden’s rise to becoming 2020’s R&B powerhouse is only a matter of time.

2. Kyle Dion

“If it ain’t soul, it ain’t whole.” The expression coined by the LA-based singer flawlessly encapsulates his raw yet polished artistry. Kyle Dion blends cinematic instrumentation, a psychedelic falsetto, and a shameless lyricism to deliver the type of music babies are made off of. His latest album, SUGA, is reminiscent of 70’s soul with standout tracks like “Brown”, “Not All The Way, and “Glass House”. From his songs to his visuals, it is evident the singer is serious about pouring every range of emotion into his craft — hiding nothing. While unclear if the singer is set for a 2020 release, Dion’s talent proves he is on the way to becoming a timeless addition to R&B.

3. Alex Mali

Identified by her neon green hair and island girl attitude, Alex Mali is the living illustration of the ever multifaceted nature of R&B. Her debut EP Sweet & Sour, shines a light on her Caribbean roots, fusing warm and tropical sounds with electronic house beats. The Brooklyn songstress also couples her new-age sound with a rich vocality one would only associate with the classics. Aside from Mali’s eclectic spin on the genre, her vulnerable story-telling is far more notable. Her lead single, “Start It Up”, is an honest take on what we all fear the most — love failing before it starts. With over 500K views on YouTube, the relatable anthem is beginning to make waves for Mali, assuring her success in the coming year.

4. Baby Rose

In 2019, Baby Rose emerged as a true embodiment of soul, debuting with To Myself. Distinguished by her fervent tone and intense vocal range, Baby Rose is reigniting R&B with the melancholy blues it started from. Co-signed by J.Cole, the singer makes her latest appearance on Revenge of The Dreamers III: Deluxe Edition. The newcomer holds her weight next to Ari Lennox and Bas on “Self Love”, proving she is a soon to be industry mainstay. The singer is set to tour with Xavier Omär this winter and perform at Pharrell’s much-anticipated Something in the Water festival in May. Simply put, Baby Rose is taking all the steps necessary to blow up in 2020.

5. Leven Kali

A SoCal singer with a pop flair, Leven Kali has been inserting himself into the alternative R&B conversation since 2017. Amidst writing songs for Drake, Snoh Aalegra, and Playboi Carti, Kali has carved out his own sound — one that is suave yet innately electric. Kali best exhibits this paradox on “Do U Wrong”, a euphonious duet with Syd. His latest release,“Homegirl”, featuring Smino and Topaz Jones, attests to his ability to create the perfect slow-jam, pairing frank lyrics with soft instrumentals. A frequent creator and collaborator, it is certain Kali will soar to new heights in 2020.