FALL INTO MUSIC:
Venus Sings’ List of Favorites, November 2015
by Reza Corinne Clifton
Other songs by Yuna that I enjoy jamming to are “Live Your Life,” and, from her album “Nocturnal,” “I Want You Back,” and “Lights and Camera.” And her cover of Nirvana’s “Come As You Are” is spectacular!
PROVIDENCE, RI – A few nights ago I had the pleasure of running into a friend I collaborated with in my previous role as co-producer and co-host of Voices of Women on WRIU. I miss the show and the corresponding opportunities, adventures and pursuits that came with having a slot where I curated and presented two hours of music every month. In particular, I miss the way the show inspired me to locate, uncover and share music made by hard-working women in and from all over the world. I was reminded of the rush and given another chance to relive the good ol’ days, when my friend asked me for recommendations for new, sultry women she could share on the show.
The song “Mama Says,” by Ibeyi, inspired me to write a poem that you can find here. “The River,” another song by Ibeyi, has a video that blends the shockingly surreal and shockingly real.
Twenty minutes later, I sent Liza the following list of artists that I thought she should check out:
- Ibeyi
- Yuna
- Jhene Aiko
- The Internet
- Melanie Fiona
- FKA Twigs
- Hollie Cook
No, it’s not that all of these women are new, though some are, yes. On the other hand, all of them are artists that fit the sound that my friend seemed to be seeking out. In case she’s reading, and because, in hindsight, seven seems like a strange number, here are four more artists I’d recommend based on new music they’re producing and/or the timelessness of what they’ve already done.
Jill Scott has been out for nearly two decades. Still, as one viewer on Youtube wrote, “She pulled the words out of my heart” with this one. A couple other favorites of mine from over the years include “A Long Walk” and “So In Love.”
- Nneka
- Santigold
- Solange
- Jill Scott
I hope to share additional recommendations before the year ends. In the meantime, leave your favorites in the comments or with me on Twitter @rezaclif.
Venus Sings by Reza Rites 