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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:

Toni Braxton

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

Last, but certainly not least, seven-time Grammy winner Toni Braxton's Sex & Cigarettes is an album worth listening to if you haven't already. Described as "exquisitely anguished R&B," Sex and Cigarettes showcases Braxton's masterly emotional range, from simmering anger to tender regret.

Top Songs: "Long As I Live," "Deadwood," "Sex & Cigarettes," and "FOH"

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

 

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