Despite a global pandemic, musicians were far more active in 2021 and had time to create their finest work. It resulted in some of the best albums in years.
In these challenging times, soul and R&B walked tall and carried a big stick, while also being a much-needed balm and source of warmth in 2021.
Unafraid of fitting into any one set genre, Yola has carved out a distinct lane for herself that has few other imitators.
Seeing Pearl Jam in 2021 feels like chicken soup for the soul for those who feel a religious sentiment about the ’90s alternative rock revolution.
Yola’s first album found an adoring audience in the Americana world. She’s expanded her repertoire on Stand For Myself as she gets ever more soulful.
The best new musical artists of 2019 are all pushing boundaries as popular music becomes less genre focused. New artists are forging new identities, rather than occupying the convenient marketing categories of the past.
Our Best 20 Americana albums of 2019 are a multicultural, polysexual, cross-genre lineup of cool Americana music that, as with the best parts of the American promise, pays tribute to the musical wells from which they spring but also takes the artform wherever their rugged individualism and talent-rich hearts lead them.
From forward-looking electronic and experimental to new approaches in the ever-evolving R&B scene, from hip-hop and punk to rock and pop, 2019 bestowed an embarrassment of musical riches upon us.
The 2019 Newport Folk Festival delivered on all fronts with Dolly Parton, Kermit the Frog, the Highwomen and Yola as this year's MVP.
As we head into a brief summer publication break to enjoy the summer sun for a few days, it's the perfect time to take stock of the year in music so far. PopMatters returns to our normal publishing schedule on Monday, 8 July.
British singer-songwriter Yola talks to PopMatters about emerging from a lifetime of straitened circumstances and emotional challenges to make 2019's most promising debut, Walk Through Fire.
Yola's solo debut, Walk Through Fire, soars to showcase her dynamic and captivating vocals while delivering an evocative and playful mix of retro country and soul.
