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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:

The Carters

Nominated for Best R&B Performance and Best Urban Contemporary Album

With an album that reflects Beyoncé's Formation Tour unofficial slogan "God is God and I am not" and Jay-Z's willingness to be demystified, the Carters released an album that revealed they are people, too. Everything is Love is the refreshing final chapter in a trilogy of albums that includes Beyoncé's 2016 unburdening Lemonade and Jay's 2017 troubled conscience in 4:44. Connecting the dots between their love and their legacy, Beyoncé and Jay-Z create a stunning album that showcases their talents together and individually.

Top Songs: "Summer," "Apeshit," "Nice," "Heard About Us," and "Friends"

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

 

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