From coast to coast, the United Kingdom has been a hotbed for emerging R&B talent throughout the 2010s and 2020s. Mahalia, Jorja Smith, Ella Mai, Elmiene, Cleo Sol, and Jvck James are just a few names along the growing, star-studded list. Best of all, they all bring something different to the table sonically, lyrically, and creatively, which adds to the rich fabric of the area’s soulful, melodic soundscape. With each passing year, the the United Kingdom’s vibrant R&B scene is further enriched by the emergence of Col3trane, who brings his unique blend of R&B, Pop, and Rap to the mix. For our second edition of ESSENTIALS, Culture Editor Ryan Shepard spotlights the North London native of American and Egyptian background.
“THE FRUITS”
Released: March 26, 2019
Project: HEROINE
Before they were touring the world, dazzling audiences with their talent, Col3trane and global sensation RAYE teamed up with DJDS for a bass-heavy R&B smash called “The Fruits.” Standing alongside RAYE, who was already touring with Khalid and working on movie soundtracks at the time, Col3trane did more than prove his talent a solo act with endless potential that would be realized in the years that have followed.
“SUPERPOWERS”
Released: March 26, 2019
Project: HEROINE
Before his 20th birthday, Col3trane was already making waves leading up to release of his breakout project, Heroine. Complete with seven songs and approximately 20 minutes of music, Heroine established Col3trane as a name to remember and delivered his second standout track, “Superpowers.” Released as a solo track and as a collaboration with Goldlink, the subtle, yet hypnotic late-night banger provided runway for Col3trane to flaunt his vocals and songwriting ability as well as Goldlink to deliver one of his best guest verses.
“FISH!”
Released: May 13, 2021
Project: 3RD FOUNTAIN: DEMOS
From newer tracks like “Moviestar” with Santino Le Saint and Nippa to older tracks like “Pretty” with Mahalia, it’s easy to fall in love with Col3trane’s collaborations. With that said, don’t sleep on Col3trane’s solo cuts. While the world was trapped inside during the COVID-19 pandemic, Col3trane dropped off a three-track EP called 3rd Fountain: Demos. The second track, “Fish,” plays around with the old saying, “There’s plenty of fish in the sea,” and creates a fan favorite album (or EP) cut.
Listen to the full ESSENTIALS: COL3TRANE playlist here:
