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New year, new music.
By Destiny Duprey — Written on Feb 01, 2020
During the past decade, we have been treated well with the number of iconic albums our favorite artists dropped. In 2019, we were introduced to a multitude of artists who paved their own routes in the music industry.
From Houston’s very own Megan Thee Stallion, Compton’s Roddy Ricch, and Spain’s princess Rosalía, the music industry has seen and heard the rise of a new generation.
However, there are still a few artists we have been keeping close eyes on since their last drop. Being a “we want it now” society, there is no such thing as a break for any of our favorites. And boy, do we know how to demand.
Take Rihanna’s fanbase, who she’s named “The Navy.” For years, we have questioned Ms. Fenty on when she was going to drop her upcoming album, “R9.” “Who sent you!? Did the Navy send you!?”
Considering all of the blood, sweat, and tears each artist puts into their craft, I would not expect any of them to toss us a mediocre freeby just to quiet the crowd down.
Nonetheless, no matter how long the grueling wait is for these albums, I think it is safe to say that when any of these artists release new music, we will be perched upon a mountain top blasting each song at full volume.
Here’s a list of 8 artists we’re anticipating to hear from this year!
1. TWENTY88
After their first collaboration in 2013 with the single, “Beware,” Jhené Aiko and Big Sean became the dynamic duo who turned into a supergroup. TWENTY88’s first joint album, TWENTY88 was conceptualized with a fictional couple’s relationship.
Aiko and Sean are both artists who have been prominent since their origins, with near back-to-back hits. After rumors surfaced of the two breaking up, their fanbase went into a frenzy wondering if we’d ever get a sequel. However, from recent social media posts with the two being seen together and music collaborations in 2019, there might be a chance of that second album.
2. Adele
After her debut album, 19 released, the world was introduced to a powerhouse vocalist. Adele’s voice has been hailed as “timeless” ever since her career took off. After her first televised debut in 2007, any comparison she once had was soon tossed into the air.
Through her heartbreak, indignation, and regret, there was something special about the maturity if Adele’s angelic melodies. With the news of her and her ex-husband splitting up, many were eager to know if she’d drop yet another album of sad girl anthems.
3. Beyoncé
This list would not be published if I didn’t include Queen Bey. The world knows her name, her game, and how she rolls, so it is with no doubt that every single human being wants a new album from Beyonce. Her last studio album, Lemonade, was released as a complete surprise to the Beyhive. It was a big “F--- you” statement, with emotional distress and marital chaos. Beyoncé is known to keep her personal life very low on the radar, so after the release of this album, many of us were surprised at how transparent she was about betrayal and infidelity.
If and when she decides to get back in the studio, I hope Beyoncé has rested and restored every part of her life before committing to feeding us again! But, it would be a delightful treat if something were to emerge this year.
4. Kendrick Lamar
In 2017, Kendrick Lamar released DAMN. and was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Music. This was a major step for judges who only recognized work in the classical and jazz genre until this. Lamar is indisputably the most acclaimed rap artist of his generation. He has changed the world of rap with his poetic and controversial lyrics delivered over smooth and jagged beats. He delivers every album with a deeply effective listening experience, causing each wait for another album grueling yet promised.
5. SZA
Born Solána Imani Rowe, SZA swayed her way into our hearts with her 2017 album Ctrl. It impacted deeply and made way for the R&B princess to show off her percussive vocals. She has been featured on a multitude of albums and singles since her latest release, which proposes the question of when she will come out with another album.
SZA’s personal views on modern romance allow us to relate in a deeper way than most artists can do. I hope to see the New Jersey native thrive with new music this year.
6. Rihanna
Ah, here we are, Robyn. It’s been four years since Rihanna dropped ANTI, and I have yet to grow tired of listening to every song. She has been persistent in the music industry since her “Pon de Replay” days.
Although Rihanna has taken a step back from music, she has been busy building a multi-billion dollar empire, ranging from high-end fashion to an inclusive make-up brand for all. And of course, when she promised a new album at the end of 2019 in an Instagram post, fans were frantic and crazy-eyed when the clock struck midnight and no album was in sight. Maybe 2020 will be the year “R9,” her ninth studio album, is released. *crosses fingers and toes*
7. Frank Ocean
Frank Ocean left his fans with an album titled Blonde back in 2016 that was talked about for years. Ocean delivered luxurious wordplay and melodies that seeped into our bloodstreams. I tried to convince myself that 2020 will be the year of a new Ocean album for two reasons: First, Channel Orange was released in 2012 and four years later, Blonde appeared, so four years to now means a new album should be near… right?
Second, his two latest singles, “DHL” and “In My Room” were released at the tail end of 2019. Frank Ocean is another artist who is regarded as “timeless” and for good reason. I’m ready for new tunes to cry too!
8. Drake
The Degrassi star turned rapper/singer, Drake is a generational voice and a staple for pop-culture. For years Drake has faced many critics and fans who have criticized him for singing instead of rapping, having a ghostwriter(s), and of course, his Jamaican accents and phrases.
But one thing remains a fact: Drake is talented, hardworking and puts his heart into his songs. The famous urban term “draking” stemmed from his more somber, heartfelt music after all! I was personally not a fan of his latest Scorpion album, but it does not mean to say he is less of who he started as. He is usually prompt when it comes to releasing new music, so it’s safe to say he’ll be delivering heat sooner than later.
Destiny Duprey is a writer who covers music, self-care, spirituality and religion topics.