4 Rising Stars of the R&B British Invasion
by Tayah Fox
The second British Invasion is underway, but it sounds a little different this time around.
Despite being labeled one of the most difficult genres to sell, U.K. R&B is still a thriving art. As the rest of the world uncovers the once-hidden sounds of U.K. R&B thanks to social media, take a look at our list of some of the rising stars who've contributed to the genre's rise in international popularity.
(Photo credit: Tallulah Ballard)
FLO
This gifted trio soared to popularity after going viral with their debut single, "Cardboard Box," on social media. Their vocals and visuals fascinated audiences, epitomizing the heart of U.K. R&B. Since then, with their fierce dance moves and heavenly harmonies, Renée, Jorja and Stella have brought back the timeless essence of R&B girl groups with unmatched charisma and stage presence. Recently, FLO strutted their way back onto our playlists with their new single, "Walk Like This,"—an alluring classic R&B track that instills listeners with confidence. Later this year, this trio is taking their unmatched charm and confidence-boosting songs to the big stages of Coachella and Lollapalooza.
Also read about: FLO Takes It Back to the 2000s With Their Debut EP, The Lead
No Guidnce
Restoring the lost art of '90s-style heartthrob R&B boy groups, No Guidnce—Ebubè, Kaci, Zeekay and Josh—are on their way to global stardom. Shortly after their debut in March 2023, new fans from each corner of the internet flocked to the group in awe at their adherence to resurrecting a nostalgic R&B sound. With over 13 million streams on their hit single "Is It A Crime?," the quartet quickly gained popularity on TikTok, enchanting audiences with their soulful voices. Within a year, No Guidnce has followed up on their quest to become the R&B boy group with songs like "White Tee," demonstrating their vocal abilities as a rising group.
Bellah
Nigerian-British singer Bellah defies the norms, demonstrating that one doesn't need a major label to ascend to greater heights. After her whimsical vocal performance of "Evil Eye" garnered a million views on YouTube, Bellah's fanbase expanded beyond the U.K. and into the international domain. Her distinctive fusion of Afro and R&B sounds offers a fresh viewpoint on cultural identity as a Nigerian woman navigating through life in London. Her third and latest project, Adultsville, exudes ingenuity through her singing, songwriting and storytelling skills. With tracks like "Prototype" and "In The Moment," Bellah takes listeners on a journey of growth as she transitions from a girl to a woman.
Also read about: 10 Big Things That Happened in Music the Week of March 29, 2024
JVCK JAMES
East London native JVCK JAMES seamlessly knits the lush sounds of neo-soul with the authentic vibe of U.K. R&B. Since 2017, his discography has sat on the line between modern melodies and nostalgic '90s harmonies, offering listeners a taste of both. JVCK JAMES made a name for himself through viral videos on YouTube, creating a path for his hit performance for COLORS studio. After signing with RCA Records, his career soared with the release of his second EP, JOYRIDE, which caught the attention of music critics and lovers alike with its lead single, "No Drama." He recently earned the title of Apple Music's Global Up Next Artist with the release of "Hennessy Tears," solidifying his status as an up-and-coming artist.
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