Good music is hard to find, especially when "real" artists are "ignored" by mainstream radio. Here's a listing of ten albums (and thirty singles) that have fallen under the radar.
Adele - 19
Although "soul music" originated in the United States, over the past decade, the genre has failed to make much headway in mainstream radio outlets. How ironic, then, that one of America 's greatest previous exports is now being imported by a small cadre of young British chanteuses. Of these women, Adele is the most promising
The British press has hailed Adele as the "new Amy Winehouse." And while remarkably flattering, such an edict can be distracting, because Adele's music stands well on its own. As a matter of fact, the proof is in the pudding: her debut album, 19, opened at the top of the UK Albums Chart—attaining platinum sales status—and she became the first recipient of the BRIT Awards Critics' Choice honor. Original release date: June 10, 2008
Tracks to check out: "Right as Rain", "Cold Shoulder" (YouTube), "Chasing Pavements" (YouTube)
Anthony David - Acey Duecy
His first project, 3 Chords & the Truth, was hailed by the Atlanta Journal Constitution as "the best record to come out of [ Atlanta ] since Usher's." Without major label support, however, the world turned a deaf ear.
Refusing to change his style for mainstream needs, David became a showstopper in Atlanta 's underground Soul scene, where he fostered a loving friendship with India.Arie that was rooted in mutual respect. After penning tracks for Acoustic Soul, Voyage to India and Testimony: Volume 1, Life & Relationship, and supporting India.Arie on global tours as a background singer, Anthony David makes his "grand debut" on India.Arie's newly-christened SoulBird label. Original release date: June 24, 2008
Tracks to check out: "Something About You" (YouTube), "Words" (YouTube), "Stop Playin'"
Ashanti - The Declaration
Although several years have passed since her historical and controversial receipt of the Soul Train Aretha Franklin Award for "Entertainer of the Year," time has proven—without much trumpeting—that Ashanti is more than a one-album, let alone a one-hit, wonder. For the record, Ashanti is the only singer to have fourteen top ten R&B hits this decade. She was also the first female performer to simultaneously hold the top two places on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Surprised? Well, dear reader, you are probably not alone. More than half of her 15 million albums have been sold outside of the U.S. — making her an international superstar by all measures. Original release date: June 3, 2008
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