Let’s be honest: soul music never really left. It just slipped into something more modern and showed up at the function with a fresh twist. And while legends like Marvin, Aretha, and Donny set the gold standard, a new wave of artists is proving that soul still runs deep—just with a few more synths and streaming stats.
These rising stars are bringing heat, healing, and harmonies to the modern music scene. Whether they’re crooning into a vintage mic or dropping acoustic covers on Instagram, these artists are pushing the genre forward while staying true to its emotional core.
Fresh Soul Voices Making Moves
- Why She Stands Out: Grammy-winning guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter with an unmatched blend of vulnerability and technical skill.
- Sound: Classic R&B with bluesy guitar licks and heartfelt lyrics.
- Fun Fact: She used to perform anonymously under sunglasses—now she’s center stage, no shades required.
- Why He Stands Out: A smooth, throwback sound that feels like Sam Cooke got a Spotify deal.
- Sound: Retro-soul meets Southern charm, often with live-band warmth.
- Notable Work: Coming Home, Good Thing—both sonic comfort food.
- Why She Stands Out: Emotionally raw vocals that make you pause mid-task and reevaluate your life.
- Sound: Gospel roots, jazzy soul, and vocals that cut straight through you.
- Collabs: Worked with Mark Ronson, PJ Morton, and Ed Sheeran.
- Why He Stands Out: That deep, velvety baritone could read your grocery list and make it poetic.
- Sound: Moody, modern soul with minimal production and major feels.
- Hit Tracks: Heartbreak Anniversary, Like I Want You.
- Why She Still Counts as “Rising”: She’s finally getting flowers after years of quietly being a powerhouse.
- Sound: Big vocals, sharp storytelling, and real-life themes (see: Heaux Tales).
- Why Watch: She’s redefining empowerment in soul/R&B for a new generation.
- Why He Stands Out: Funky, funny, and fearless—a performer in the truest sense.
- Sound: Think D’Angelo meets André 3000 at karaoke night.
- Why Watch: He brings theatrical energy to deeply emotional tracks—plus, the man can sing.
The Sound of Now: Soul’s Evolution
What sets these artists apart isn’t just their vocal chops—it’s their ability to connect. Today’s soul artists pull from jazz, hip-hop, R&B, even electronic music, layering personal experiences over beats that groove and lyrics that sting (or soothe).
They’re not afraid to be tender, messy, or political. They’re weaving together modern storytelling and cultural commentary, all while staying rooted in soul’s emotional traditions. You’ll hear it in the production. You’ll feel it in the harmonies. And you’ll probably cry during the bridge—don’t worry, it’s part of the experience.
Conclusion
Soul music is alive, thriving, and remixing itself in the voices of a new generation. These rising artists are honoring the genre’s past while creating something bold and new. Whether you’re a day-one soul head or just now catching the vibe, there’s never been a better time to tune in.
Which soul artist has been living rent-free in your playlists lately? Drop your faves and explore more rising talent over at DLK Soul.
