(ThyBlackMan.com) I hate R&B, for the most part. Of course, it sounds harsh and as a music lover and writer, discovering music old and new is always an interesting and joyous experience that can never be expendable. With well over 3000 songs on my iPad of all genres, I’ve became well known as the “music man,” offering opinion and critique constantly of the new music and artists. And often time, I’m told to consider this artist or that song, locally or nationally. And a recommendation or discovery locally rarely catches my attention.
But finally, an artist by the name of Rashida Beach gets my attention that deserves *gratitude. I came across her music via Facebook, and was so instantly drawn in to her artistry; I had to write an artist spotlight on her. She’s an R&B artist to the core, drawing inspiration from Erykah Badu, Corine Bailey Rae and Mary J. Blige amongst others.
Now this isn’t your modern day, assembly-line R&B-pop that you may hear
Rihanna or Nicki Minaj accomplishing (Yes, that Starships ish.) Ms. Beach is for the Sade lovers, those who waiting on D’Angelo to come back with new music. She’s for those who will say real R&B is dead and gone. For lack of better terms, she has a definite Neo Soul vibe, but I don’t want to label her that, because of the stigma it may come with in the R&B world. On top of all this, she also writes and composes her own songs, so her talent runs deep creatively.
Rashida is also a 2013 graduate of College of Charleston, and we also attended the same high school (Richland Northeast High School class of 2009 and 2010, respectively) and had a musical keyboarding class together (she sat right next to me.) Her talent has been evident since she was member of my late older brother Minister Landrum Washington choir when she was young; the sky’s the limit for this 22 year old songstress.
I personally recommend Suga Baby, Best of Me, Paradise and Legendary. A note to conclude, never look at an emerging artist as whether are the “next best thing” or not. Always look at what their potential can be. Potential is a dream that hasn’t been fulfilled yet. But, please check out Ms. Rashida Beach’s music and grant feedback. She’s a very talented artist who is looking for that big break. Who knows, fellow readers, it could be because of you.
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ReverBNation: http://www.reverbnation.com/rashidazakiya