If you need a distraction from all that’s happening in the world, we hope this new R&B helps.
From Otis Kane getting introspective to Teddy Swims being in love and letting the world know, this was a calm week in the world of rhythm and blues. After not having released an album in 15 years, Tynisha Keli returns with her third LP in under a year. Kyle Dion further teases his next feature-length project along with Journey Montana, who’s gearing up for the arrival of her debut album.
May these new releases bring a glimmer of light among the darkness.
Otis Kane – Violet
Otis Kane’s sophomore album, Violet, is here. Described as an evolution, the LP is concrete evidence of his growth as an artist and a person.
With standout tracks like the groovy “Breathe,” the upbeat “Scorpio,” the seductive “Honey,” and chilling “Kaleidoscope,” each song represents a piece of Kane’s journey.
“The album is a journey through my musical influences, my most creative moments, and some of my happiest times,” he explained, detailing how he worked with some close collaborators and “other very talented creatives who helped me push the boundaries of what I could imagine and create.”
Kyle Dion – “Tears On A Pretty Face”
Kyle Dion is encouraging listeners to dance with his new single, “Tears On A Pretty Face.” The upbeat record is very reminiscent of Michael Jackson’s Off The Wall. Vocal similarities aside, the Imports-produced tune is vibrant and completely juxtaposes the song’s title.
“This song means so much to me. It’s about that feeling of trying to keep it together, even when you’re hurting inside. Whether it’s in a relationship or just with yourself, we all have those moments where we have to push through the pain, and that’s what this song is about—healing, resilience, and finding strength in those tough times,” Kyle shared.
The crooner has been relatively secretive about the direction of his next album, but with a single like this, we can’t wait to delve more into the full project’s theme and direction.
Teddy Swims feat. GIVĒON – “Are You Even Real”
Teddy Swims is deep in his R&B bag for his new album, I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 2). Joined by GIVĒON on “Are You Even Real,” they gush over a lover being so perfect that she seems too good to be true.
For Swims, art imitates life since he’s currently dating and expecting a child with fellow singer Raiche. “I’m in love with a perfect woman and I am so lucky that sometimes it feels too good to be true!,” he teased regarding the duet’s inspiration. When speaking on collaborating with GIVĒON, he described the crooner as an “once in a generation talent.”
GIVĒON added, “This song came together in such a natural way and it shows. The music, the lyrics, Teddy, and myself. It’s one that makes you replay it over and over. Excited to finally share it with the world.”
I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 2) includes additional features from Muni Long, Coco Jones, and GloRilla. It drops on Jan. 24.
Journey Montana – “Best One”
Journey Montana is teasing her Camper-produced debut album with her newest single, “Best
One.”
The guitar-laden track is both nostalgic and refreshing that serves as an anthem for self-love even if your partner doesn’t realize it. “Every once in a while, a significant other might be at a crossroads between me and everyone else. In this song, I explain why I’m the best choice. Why are you not obsessed? If I were you, I’d drop everyone else, because I’m the best one,” Journey explained in a statement.
It speaks to her new album’s theme of owning one’s worth and celebrating themselves.
Tynisha Keli – Dark Horses
Tynisha Keli, who rose to prominence with her 2007 hit “I Wish You Loved Me,” made her way back to music last year and just released her newest album, Dark Horses.
The 12-track LP feels like a full circle moment for the songstress who stepped away from the industry for a multitude of reasons. If you’re a fan of JoJo and Tori Kelly, add Tynisha’s album into your rotation. Standout tracks include the heart-wrenching “I Told Ya,” the assertive “Last Chance,” and the sultry “Hey DJ.”