There’s something shared about all of tonight’s performers. They are all fresh faced, but bring with them a sense of nostalgia and a feeling of lives well lived. This comes through in their lyrics and their sound. Nemiss is a hip-hop starlet, but her style is more grounded than many of today’s leading ladies. The remaining acts also exhibit a strong foundation in their music, a tendency to stay true to what their genres intended decades ago while still being relevant and very now. Hip Hop, R&B, Soul; these are some of the genres on display tonight, all of which will satisfy your craving with soulful, moving performances.
Nemiss
Nemiss has been bordering on wide spread recognition for some time now, which is part of what makes her so wonderful. She delivers hip-hop in a way that makes her audience feel as though this is the real Nemiss, a genuine woman with a penchant for rhymes. Her lyrics are tight, and she doesn’t rely on the flashiness of so many of today’s female Hip-Hop stars. Instead, Nemiss’ femininity is intrinsic; she’s empowered, but without establishing it by dissing other women, bringing to mind another powerful woman of Hip-Hop in style and approach- Lauryn Hill.
Arin Maya
Arin Maya is a stunning lyricist, blending her music with styles from folk to R&B, soul, and Jazz. The easiest comparison is India.Arie, especially Maya’s voice and guitar playing. Her music is emotive and intriguing- a personal story, beautifully relayed to an audience, with easily recognizable shared human experiences. Maya is sure to transfer a sense of joyfulness through her music; if you’re looking for something uplifting, this is for you.
Guy Lockard
Guy Lockard’s polished R&B is influenced by reggae and pop, neatly packaged in cheeky lyrics and a soulful voice. A contemporary of his would be John Legend, but his style is also reminiscent of late 90s and early 00s R&B artists, like Craig David and early Usher- a refreshing approach to retro. His live performances get more soulful, including some incredible covers and instrumental fluidity.
- Rick Marcello
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