Our Global R&B Spotlight series continues and this month we are shining the light on Sage Harris, Dylan Sinclair, Amaal (Toronto Canada) with Moliy (Ghana) rounding out this month’s list.
From the pop dominance of Drake and The Weeknd, to the soulfulness of Deborah Cox and Melanie Fiona, Toronto’s multifaceted sound has remained a hidden staple in R&B music for more than two decades. Capitalizing on this wave is a new generation of artists, who are eager to craft their own legacy by adding dimensions to the region’s next evolution of sound.
Leading the pack is a trio of spring releases by rising stars, Dylan Sinclair, Sage Harris, and Amaal. Released independently (Dylan Sinclair and Sage Harris) and through major label support (Amaal), each respective project has maintained steady momentum throughout the month of May thanks in large part to their individual lead singles and accompanying videos.
Sage Harris
“Figure it Out”, the six-song EP released by Sage Harris is a combination of styles, sounds, and flavors that hit on immediate impact thanks to its upbeat production and confident vocals. Highlighted by the opener “Tell Somebody”, the title track, and “Let Me Know”, which is an updated rendition of Jagged Edge’s 2001 smash “Where the Party At?”, Harris takes center stage throughout the project while collaborators Kap G, Preme, and the aforementioned Jagged Edge compliment his vocal swag without overshadowing the host.
Notable Song: “Figure it Out”
Sage Harris:https://www.sageharris.com/ Instagram @sageharris
Amaal
“Milly”, a sophomore release by Somali-born and Toronto-based artist Amaal is a sultry, elegant affair of eight songs that penetrate deep into listeners’ ears. Fueled by the steamy opener “Heaven”, and notable tracks “Honey”, “Renegade”, and closer “Lullaby”, Amaal’s vocals paint beautiful imagery through intoxicating lyrics that leave listeners yearning for more.
Notable Song: “Heaven”
Amaal: Website: https://www.amaalnuux.com/ Instagram @amaalnuux
Dylan Sinclair
“No Longer in the Suburbs” released by JUNO-nominated artist Dylan Sinclair is an eight-song account of a man that is unapologetic in his vulnerability and willingness to share emotion. This vulnerability is perhaps best reflected in the project’s opener “Rational”, and noteworthy cuts “Lifetime”, “If You Feel Like Leaving Me”, and a personal favorite, “Too Soon?”, which wrestles with the idea of love and expressing it prematurely.
Notable Song: “Too Soon?”
Dylan Sinclair: Website: https://www.dylansinclair.ca/ Instagram @dylansinclair
Moliy
Outside of Toronto comes Ghana singer-songwriter, Moliy with her latest release “Mahogany Street”. Energetic, robust, and upbeat, the three-song project is powered by the dance hit “9 to 5”, which is a fusion of reggae and r&b soul.
Notable Song: “9 to 5”
Moliy: Website: https://moliymusic.com/ Instagram @moliymusic
For more information on these artists, please visit their official websites and social media pages and show them some love.
Be sure to check out our Global Spotlight Series on the first Monday of the month.