This Decade's Stan List

Are you a music trendsetter? Do your friends try to secretly Shazam the songs that you play in your car? Do people DM you and ask what song is playing in the background of your Instagram story? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are probably the music trendsetter in your friend group. I am also a music trendsetter and it is our job to find artists to support even before they get the attention that they deserve. Here are some artists that I have been supporting throughout this decade. If you haven’t heard them yet, now is your chance before the year is over.

VanJess

I was first introduced to this R&B sister duo in 2011 on YouTube. They did a mash-up of “Thinking About You” and “Headlines” and I was hooked. They standout for their soulful harmonies and obvious ‘90s influence. Their latest tracks are house-inspired dance bops that feature artists like Masego, GoldLink, and KAYTRANADA. If you like soulful R&B with a dancey, techno flavor, I would definitely recommend VanJess.

Doja Cat

Last year, I was Doja Cat from the “Moo!” music video for Halloween — clearly I am a devoted fan. Before that, I was listening to her albums Purrr and Amala for the smooth melodic beats, angelic vocals, and punchy lyrics. Doja Cat is the baddest and full of surprises. Her lyricism is otherworldly and her rap abilities honestly surprised me. She is truly my spirit animal and her latest project is everything.

Mahalia

I first heard Mahalia on Colors about two years ago. Since then, I have been in love with her sultry and soulful voice and adorable British accent. Now some may say she has a “typical British coffee shop singer” voice BUT I think Mahalia has a soulfulness that makes her stand out. I also appreciate her lyrics in songs like “I Wish I Missed My Ex” and “Grateful.” Her latest project features Burna Boy and Ella Mai and is one of my favorite albums of the year.

Tinashe

I first fell in love with Tinashe back in 2012 with her song “Boss” ft. Honey Cocaine. Seven years later, Tinashe is finally getting the respect that she deserves. She can write, produce, dance, sing, perform and the list goes on. She is a versatile R&B goddess with catchy, pop vocals, hip-hop vibes, and alternative influence. She is the Janet Jackson of our generation (but with much stronger vocals). If you haven’t heard her latest, independent project please check it out before the year is over.

Rico Nasty

I shouldn’t even have to put her on the list. If you know anything about me, you know that I love Rico Nasty and Drake to the moon and back. I was first introduced to Rico with her song iCarly in 2016. Ever since, I was an unapologetic stan. Seeing her perform live in the DMV (our home) only made me love her more. What other artist makes a girls-only mosh pit so all the Black girls can rage? Rico Nasty is an icon in the making. She is unfiltered, dripping with confidence, and blazing her own path in rap and hip hop culture. Word on the street is she is launching her own make up line soon so I will definitely be first in line for that.

Overall tea:

I highly suggest you get on board with these artists before the decade comes to a close. Don’t be the last one to discover their brilliance because I will call you out for it.