Tune Twins: Artists That That Have Similar Sounds
As music lovers, we can all pretty much agree that finding new music should be considered paid labor. From sifting through hours of Spotify playlists and walking the rows of old record stores; finding music similar to what you already like can be very difficult. That’s why we have done it for you. Below are six pairs of artists that make music with similar vibes, ranging fromR&B, Pop, and Hip-Hop.
R&B
Kehlani and MK xyz
Sources: Allure & Twitter
When it comes to R&B music, Kehlani is a staple artist in everyone's playlist. Her relatable lyrics and light vocals are the keys to instant relaxation.
Kehlani isn’t afraid to experiment with her look, sound, and personal brand. She’s well known for being transparent surrounding her sexuality, spirituality, and motherly experiences while maintaining an air of mystery.
Kehlani's sister artist MK Xyz has a sound that keeps you begging for more. MK Xyz is a multi-talented painter and musician that has risen to fame via her Youtube account where the artist gets transparent regarding her muses, sexuality, and diet.
Both of these artists prioritize engaging with their fanbase and using industry connections to further their careers. Their magnetic energy, enticing and personal lyrics mixed with dreamy beats from top industry producers make for an it-girl sundae.
With both artists drawing influence from Aaliyah and TLC, their melodic voices and serene energy feels as if you're hugging a cloud.
You can listen to “Alter” by Kehlani and “Lost” by MK Xyz below.
Steve Lacey and Ravyn Lenae
Source: The fader
If the name Steve Lacy rings a bell, it's probably because of the grammy-nominated band, The Internet. At just 17 years old, Lacy became a beloved guitarist, but in 2017 after the release of his first EP his extensive vocal range completely stole the show.
Lacy’s adaptability and musical influences leave him in a complete category of his own. By including disco and punk sounds in his music, Lacy easily transitions from one vocal octave to another. His psychedelic funk r&b style is well on its way to making him a household name.
When mentioning psychedelic-inspired r&b, Ravyn Lenae is the one to watch. Her ability to blend electronic and soul beats highlight her effortlessly flowing high-pitched vocals.
With both artists being influenced by Erykah Badu, these Alternative R&B musicians are blazing the charts. Steve Lacy's undeniable instrumental talent and warm voice fill the air with notes of smooth confidence straight out of a 50’s movie. Lovers of this sound are making way for the soulful voice of Ravyn Lenae.
Listen to “N Side” by Steve Lacy and “Sticky” by Ravyn Lenae below.
Hip-Hop
Joey Bada$$ and JID
Source: Interview Magazine and Inflooenz
Growing up in Brooklyn means being able to recite at least one Joey Bada$$ song word for word. Founder of the Pro Era Collective, Joey Bada$$ is a modern lyricist that stays true to old-school rap.
Using poetic techniques, Joey Bada$$ uses his music to tell hood tales and provide his political opinions. In the era of pop-rap, this Brooklyn native grabbed New York City by the throat and changed the foundation of Brooklyn rap forever.
While lyricism is slowly evolving to make room for more pop-sounding hip-hop, rapper JID’s poetic lyrics and storytelling can’t be beaten. JID’s debut album, The Never Story, features an inside look into the world of mass incarnation, poverty, and political corruption.
Drawing influence from Nas and Jay-Z, both artists are well on their way to becoming legendary.
Listen to “Survival Tactics” by Joey Bada$$ and “Surround Sound” by JID below.
Kendrick Lamar and Baby Keem
Source: Spotify
Regardless of whether you love drill or conscious rap, Kendrick Lamar's progressive flow, adaptability, and funk beats are what make him a beloved rapper. His consistent use of trap beats and the lyrics not only provide listeners with an interactive experience, but places you right in Kendrick’s shoes and feeling his raw emotions in each song.
While Baby Keem is not a conscious rapper, he does experiment with his beats, flow, and song narration in a similar fashion to Kendrick Lamar. His extremely confident delivery and trap pop beats will never fail to get you hyped up and ready to rage.
Listen To “The Blacker The Berry” by Kendrick Lamar and “Trademark USA” by Baby Keem below.
Pop
Chloe x Halle and Rina Sawayama
Source: IMBD & Amazon
The Beyonce mentored sister duo Chloe x Halle are on their way to becoming the younger generation's biggest pop group. Their harmonic vocals and acoustic pop feel make for great music that you can vibe to.
With an appearance on Billboards Top 100’s List, Chloe x Halle had TikTok in a chokehold during the height of the pandemic. Inspiring viral dances and trends, the electro-pop duo is utterly magnetic.
When mentioning duality within music, new pop girl Rina Sawayama is pushing the boundaries. While also being influenced by Beyonce, she does give Avril Lavigne credit for her evolutionary sound. Both groups push out pop music that will make you cry, dance, and even scream.
Listen to “Ungodly Hour” by Chloe x Halle and “Comme Des Garçons” by Rina Sawayama below.
FKA Twigs and Kilo Kush
Source: Billboard and Genius
FKA Twigs hit the music scene like Twilight fanfics hit Wattpad. Her use of R&B and electronic sounds paved the way for a new genre of pop called dream pop and the avant-garde. The use of electronic beats within R&B and pop music didn’t stop there, but it carried over to up-and-coming artist Kilo Kush. Although Kilo’s genre is technically R&B, the electronic influence in their music bumps them into the art and psychedelic pop genre. These musicians are trailblazing their way through Pop and giving everyone a run for their money.
Listen to “Honda (ft Pa Salieu)” by FKA Twigs and “NICE OUT” by Kilo Kish below.
Music is about more than just high notes and great beats, all iconic artists connect with their audience in ways that personalize the experience. The ability to connect with millions of strangers through shared emotions that one song provoked is an immaculate experience. All of the aforementioned artists have completely dominated in this field and are well on their way to becoming household names for the avid music lover.
If you are looking for something a little heftier than just a couple of songs, check out the website Chosic, which helps locate similar-sounding artists.
Which artists are your favorite? Leave a comment below.