Looking for a good song or new artist to listen to during Black History Month? Well, you’re in luck because here is a whole playlist to add to your Spotify or other streaming platform. These artists are not only adding diversity to the music scene but are also amazing artists overall. Enjoy!
Kids Like Us by Magnolia Park
The band, Magnolia Park, just debuted in the new era of pop-punk. If you listen to Green Day or Fall Out Boy—-this is the band for you. Most importantly, the lead singer, Joshua Roberts, often voices his struggles as a Black vocalist in the genre. His songs cover topics such as racism and police brutality, with the goal to break stereotypes and discrimination and open up the door for other Black vocalists fronting bands in the genre.
Hit Like a Girl by Meet Me @ The Altar
This indie pop-punk band is made of three powerful Black women who sing about topics such as cutting off toxic relationships and challenging societal norms. If you like bands like Paramore, this is the new band for you!
Whore by KingKitty (a.k.a. @honeydewedhideaway on TikTok)
KingKitty is an up-and-coming Black female rapper who grew to prominence on TikTok. She went viral when she began freestyling about periods. Her songs gain large popularity because of her openness to address topics that are often frowned upon by society. Her style of rapping is often compared to Doja Cat. She has released her own song called “Whore” on Spotify that talks about empowered women who are comfortable with their sexuality yet often called degrading names by men because of that.
Planet Her album by Doja Cat
Doja Cat, like many other female rappers, is challenging the status quo. Her newest album, Planet Her, is a big slap in the face for toxic masculinity within the rap genre. Her songs cover topics such as female sexuality and not being afraid to be open about that sexuality and sexual pleasure.
WEDLOCK by N3ptune
A local favorite, Denver-based artist Neptune, delivers powerful pop tunes derived from a unique experience of being both Black and queer. WEDLOCK is the first track on his latest album, “Renaissance.” The song has a sonorous bass line and smooth, robust vocals that will make anyone feel empowered. N3ptune is known for honest lyrics that cut deep. Give WEDLOCK and other songs by N3ptune a listen to support one of Denver’s most popular Black artists.
Dust and Bones by The Reminders
Drawing from soul, funk, rap and pop elements, The Reminders are an iconic local band that pack every song with musical complexity in an energized style. “Dust and Bones,” is a rhythmic song with buttery, jazz-styled vocals infused with rap sections that are sure to please any listener. The song also includes an insane saxophone and accordion solo that maintains the trend of surprises delivered at every turn while listening. The Reminders are one of the most talented and vibrant artists currently making music in Denver right now, making them a quintessential addition to your Black History Month playlist.
The Flux by Trayce Chapman
Another local favorite, Trayce Chapman has been a staple in the Denver music scene for several years. On “The Flux,” as well as the rest of his discography, Chapman delivers a flowing lyricism in his raps as well as beats that are unique and approachable for any listener. Drawing elements of lo-fi, rap and hip-hop, if you are a fan of J Cole, Kevin Abstract or A$AP Rocky, you’re sure to have an affinity for Tracye Chapman.
Music is always more amazing when it has meaning behind it. These artists aren’t afraid to convey those motives out in the open. This is just a limited list, but there are thousands of other artists out there challenging what it means to be a Black artist in the music world.
