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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:

Lalah Hathaway

Nominated for Best R&B Performance, Best Traditional R&B Performance, and Best R&B Album

Winner of the 59th Grammy Awards Best Traditional R&B Performance, Lalah Hathaway is back with her thick, smoky, and soulful voice. Taking a sharp stylistic route and choosing to swap out her poise, gentle storm R&B for beautiful, unsteady beats and digital grooves. With just being twenty-eight minutes long, Hathaway shows that there can Honestly be a blessing in such brevity.

Top Songs: "YOY," "Made for Love," "Call on Me," and "Honestly"

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

 

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