During the last decade, we were captivated by the emergence of rap superstars such as Drake, J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar. However, the last decade was also remarkably impacted by the emergence of R&B’s biggest acts. From Frank Ocean’s Nostalgia, Ultra to Miguel’s Kaleidoscope Dream, the progression of R&B music has been profoundly impacted by incredible projects. As we head into the next decade, we can expect more of the same.
Kicking off this decade, Lucky Daye, Brent Faiyaz, Mahalia and others will look to stamp their names in the history books. Standing alongside those artists is an emerging vocalist and creative by the name of Alice Smith. Smith is by no means new to the world of music. Having released For Lovers, Dreamers & Me 2006 and She in 2013, Smith is an experienced artist with a lot to offer. With that being said, she is stepping into a new phase of her career and more importantly, her life.
As a new mother, Smith is carrying her Lynn Collins-like vocals into a new decade. Her latest project, Mystery, is the soulful reprise that fans have been waiting for. Like more mature artists such as Lucky Daye and the like, Smith effortlessly balances the need to be both vulnerable and elusive. Powered by her raw vocal ability, Smith’s “All Runs Out” intro offers a bit of insight into her current state.
She sings, “My heart, my strength, my power, all my energy/My patience and my trust, my whole?damn?life it seems/If?it all runs out/Will it all?run out.”
Meanwhile, tracks like “Always” offer a look into her marriage and outlook on love.
She sings, “Take me to your place/Have me in your ever after/Never leave me/Never go.”
Having worked with everyone from Tyler, The Creator to Prince, Alice Smith has already established herself as someone within music. Not to mention, she’s performed everywhere from Essence Fest to NPR’s Tiny Desk. If the 2010’s were her coming out party, the next decade will further establish her as a household name for years to come.
