By Misc Penny Contributors
In celebration of Black History Month (which is just coming to a close), the Penny team has come together to create the latest edition of Loose Change, playlist of tracks by our favorite Black musicians. Under each contributors' song choices, you can find a little blurb or two about their picks (and at the end of the post, you can find the entire playlist).
More often than not, Black creatives in many different creative industries, and especially the music industry, are taken for granted and aren't shown the recognition that they deserve — this is a trend that cannot continue. Even though Black History month is coming to a close, spotlighting Black creatives and supporting Black people in general is a must (but that should go without saying).
ERIN CHRISTIE
“Butterfly Collector” - A.R. Kane
“Mega City Nine (unknown virus 4.)” - Ho99o9
“BB” - Shygirl
“Wax On (ft. Freddie Gibbs)” - Injury Reserve
Injury Reserve’s self-titled record came out the same day as Tyler, the Creator’s IGOR (2019), and that, unfortunately, helped it fly under the radar at the time, despite its (in my opinion) elements of sheer excellence. One of the stronger moments amidst the album’s tracklisting (aside from the clever and massively pointed “Rap Song Tutorial” and banger “Jailbreak the Tesla”) is “Wax On (ft. Freddie Gibbs).”
This summer, it was announced that member Stepa Groggs unexpectedly passed away. While a period of mourning continues and the future of the group remains hung in the balance, it’s certain that tracks such as “Wax On” will continue to serve as a reminder of their, and Groggs’, greatness. Rest in Peace, Groggs.
ERIN DICKSON
“Too Good” - Arlo Parks
“Rage” - NNAMDI
“Paténipat” - Charlotte Adigéry
The debut album, Collapsed In Sunbeams, from Arlo Parks has already become one of my favorites this year. “Too Good” is jazzy and upbeat with a really cool guitar line that plays throughout. At only 20-years-old, Parks is already making a name for herself and I can’t wait to watch her grow.
In true NNAMDI fashion, “Rage” is a whirlwind in the best way possible. It’s a heavy song with some pretty dark but incredibly important lyrics. It’s best played as loud as possible.
I saw Charlotte Adigéry open for Metronomy last February and quickly became obsessed. She combines electronic beats with French lyrics and “Paténipat” is the perfect introduction if you’ve never heard her music before.
Alexandra Morozová
"Tightrope" - Janelle Monae
"Day N Nite" - Kid Cudi
"Are You Gonna Go My Way" - Lenny Kravitz
"Tightrope" is a funky groovy song that will definitely put you in a good mood. Janelle's vocals are on point and her singing style is uniquely amazing.
"Day N Nite” is a modern classic. Although it's not as new, it has definitely aged well. The chorus is very melodic and will for sure stay in your head for at least a few days after you listen.
"Are You Gonna Go My Way" is another classic by the amazing Lenny Kravitz. The guitar riffs will definitely keep you hooked.
ADDITIONAL PICKS
BRENDAN WRIGHT
“Beef Rap” - MF Doom
“Cookie” - Pink Navel
“Bittersweet” - Lianne La Havas
Charis Forrester
“All Tomorrow’s Carry” - Special Interest
“Be Good to Me” - ESG
“100” - Dean Blunt
Check out the whole Loose Change: Celebrating Black Voices Playlist below!
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