Fireboy DML had a nimble rise to stardom and was well on his way to superstar status after the release of his albums, “Laughter, Tears and Goosebumps” and “APOLLO”. He is an agent of change, bridging the gap between Africa and the rest of the world through timeless music.
Q.G. The BlacKnight takes up space as an indie artist in Arkansas and is comfortable with who he has grown to become—”My goal isn’t trying to be the biggest cat in the room. I’m just trying to be one of the most well known.” Q.G.’s knowledge of self is admirable, as he is a champion for artist individuality and authentic self expression, which is what his album represents. Read more as Q.G. The BlacKnight peels back the layers of his musical journey as a southern independent artist, his musical influences, where Arkansas stands in the music industry, and a breakdown of his latest album, “The Blackprint”.
Jake Doe is an independent R&B artist from Lagos, Nigeria. When referencing his upbringing he explains, “it’s a lot harder out here compared to western countries—structure, government, the system is just messed up out here. Young people, youths, do not have the right platforms to use or to make good use of their creativity.” Despite this, his love for where he comes from isn’t diminished. He speaks boldly of the talent that the great continent of Africa possesses, “the world knows Africa for Afrobeats, but it’s not just Afrobeats… we can do almost anything.”
Gena Bushnell is the founder of Give Girls Flowers, an inclusive and empowering wellness community for women of all backgrounds. She says, “I think that women don’t get their flowers for all that they do—all the hard work they put in, all the long hours, all the selflessness, and all the things that women endure that they don’t often get recognition for. I just wanted to create something that allowed a space for that.”
Fort Smith, Arkansas native, DJ P Smooth never envisioned himself as the center of attention. Yet, his passion for music and drive to push Arkansas’ music forward is undeniable. Inspired by his father and the lack of representation of Arkansas’ music scene, DJ P Smooth shifted gears and was set on becoming a professional DJ. When speaking on Arkansas’ music scene he says, “I was always taught that if I wanted something to change, I had the power to change it, and pushing Arkansas music is one thing I stand on.” DJ P Smooth also shares insight on how he got started and gives advice for up-and-coming DJs.
There’s something special about a song or body of work that truly resonates with the listener. If you love music, this article is for you! Read more for the ten artists that need to be on your playlist.
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