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From Pop to Jazz, to Hip-Hop and R&B, with a dash of Urban Contemporary, Black artists showed up and out in 2018.


With Janelle Monáe dropping her alter ego and delivering some ravenous, android funk, Cardi B's bloody-shoed boasts, and an all-star force representing for Wakanda, 2018 wrapped up to be one of the best years for Black artists.

Though vastly different in tone and technique, Black artists echoed similar themes of Black American political disillusionment, good and bad relationships, female empowerment, the struggle for higher standards, and the pressure to maintain an authentic version of oneself. With the 61st Grammy Awards coming up, hosted by 15-time Grammy award-winner, Alicia Keys, check out the list below to discover the innovative, formidable Black artists nominated this year:

Ella Mai

Nominated for Song of the Year and Best R&B Song

From uploading song covers on Instagram in 2015, to becoming one of the most recognized names and faces in 2018, Ella Mai has shown that she is a worthy adversary in the music industry. With her breakout warm, syrupy-sweet single "Boo'd Up" Ella Mai has become a household name and a competitor for this year's Song of the Year. Although her debut album did not qualify for this year's upcoming Grammy Awards, there are rumors that this will not be the only Grammy Awards she'll ever attend.

Top Songs: "Boo'd Up," "Trip," "10,000 Hours," "Everything" (ft. John Legend), "Whatchamacallit" (ft. Chris Brown), "Naked," and "Shot Clock"

The Grammys airs on Sunday, February 10 at 5 pm PST/8 pm EST.

 

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