As Black History month comes to an end, the first playlist featured in this column will be one celebrating Black voices.
“Freedom” by Beyoncé (feat. Kendrick Lamar) may be most famously known as the anthem for Kamala Harris’ 2024 presidential election, but it also serves as a song of liberation. The song uses an organ sample from the 1960s that represented the lasting fight for Black Liberation. As such, it makes sense that Harris adopted this track in her campaign seeing as her win would have made her the first Black, female president in the United States. The loud and proud tone and lyrics reminds us the fight for equality and freedom is not over.
“On My Way” by June McDoom is a song that stands out for its sound and melody. The haunting tone combined with the repetition of “oh, I am on my, my way” leaves room for the listener to ponder over their own experiences. According to an interview with the Creative Independent, McDoom has “always been more naturally inclined to sounds and textures.” This track certainly reflects this focus while also telling a story of going through life with someone. If you like this song, I recommend “Piano Song” and “Babe, You Light Me Up.”
“DENIAL IS A RIVER” by Doechii is a fun and upbeat addition to this list. Doechii blew up on TikTok and has since won two Grammys. Her songs convey passion through catchy and fun to sing along lyrics. “DENIAL IS A RIVER” is my favorite of her songs because she brings a unique aspect of having two voices converse with each other. There are also lyric breaks, such as at the end where they breathe together.
“F2F” by SZA has an unmatched energetic spirit. The track, off her latest album,“SOS,” perfectly combines a feeling of longing with intense vocals and sound. This along with the buildup to the chorus makes it stand out on the album.
“White Ferrari” by Frank Ocean is a nostalgia-filled ballad that encapsulates the feeling of simply sitting with your thoughts. “If you think about it, it’ll be over in no time” leads into a shift in the song, vocally and lyrically. Utilizing sound in unique ways is Ocean’s speciality, which this song exemplifies.
“I’ve Seen It” by Olivia Dean closes out her second album with a calm tone and contemplative lyrics. This most recent winner of the Best New Artist Grammy award is famous for the mellow and loving vibe of her recent album. This song is perfect for anyone who wants to reflect while listening to a beautiful, poetic soundtrack.
This compilation of songs is great for anyone who wants to celebrate Black voices through a mixture of fun, nostalgic, introspective and intense songs always with exceptional vocals and melodies.