Summertime is the time where you find many music festivals and outside free concerts due to the warmer weather. Most times it’s the artists who have been around for years doing these shows, compared to the newer artists. This past weekend was Essence Festival. I heard of many great acts performing such as Lauryn Hill, Jill Scott, Total, and Boyz II Men amongst so many other artists. Honestly, I find myself listening to more music from the 90’s and 2000’s than I do to today’s music. In the last few years post Covid, I have tried to see more older artists than the newer ones. But there are some great new music out there and there are moments when I explore their work. Recently, I have listened to a few albums released this year, and want to give an honorably mention to them, because they are good.
- Leon Thomas – Mutt HEEL: Many options of songs that’s a vibe along with his hit song “MUTT.”
- Eric Benet- The Co-Star: An album where he has duets with all female artist blending his sultry voice with their feminine wits.
- Keke Palmer- Just Keke: The first from Keke that I think breaks her into the music industry more so than it did in the past.
- Jacob Latimore- JL: We haven’t heard new music from Jacob since he was still a very young man and teenager. Now we get to here his perspective as a adult whose experienced some things.
- Estelle- New Direction: Estelle had songs in the late 2000’s that still plays today, but it’s been awhile since we heard new songs. This album gives us a taste into what she’s been up to with a good production and features.
So, maybe a few of these albums can be added to your rotation of music. Or maybe you will continue to only listen to the older artists. Whichever you choose, I hope it brings you good vibes as you go into the weekend. As I mentioned, there are more free concerts around during the summer. If you happen to be in the New York City area in the coming weeks here is information on some of the shows. Happy Friday and have a good weekend!