I’m a music junkie, so I end up going through a ton of music on a monthly basis. I figured, for my own sake, I would catalog the albums, mixtapes, EPs, songs, live performances, music videos, etc. that I’ve listened to/watched/enjoyed the most, in a little monthly series called “In Rotation.” Hopefully you find some gems in here, and please feel free to comment with your own favorites from the past month.
Projects
KIRBY – Sis.
I know this literally just came out, but it might be my favorite project of the year already. I discovered KIRBY some time last year and added her to my list of new R&B/Soul artists to watch out for in 2020. Her first project, which dropped yesterday, blew me away. Mesmerizing vocals, beautiful songwriting — the whole nine yards. The short runtime might be its only flaw.
Roddy Ricch – Please Excuse Me for Being Antisocial
I didn’t pay Roddy any mind until he dropped this record and I found myself surprised by how much I liked it. And after the way he wreaked havoc on the charts, barring one of the biggest popstars on the planet from getting a Number 1 song and almost repeating that feat the following week with another superstar, how can we not root for this guy?
070 Shake – Modus Vivendi
Other than a few features and a couple singles, this was my first time listening to GOOD Music signee 070 Shake. I was pleasantly surprised. The production on this album was especially superb.
Songs and Music Videos
Normani – “Waves”
I know this song came out in 2018, but I couldn’t stop playing it this month, for some reason. I really love Normani’s sound on this one, and I kinda hope she decides to go this sonic direction, as opposed to “Motivation” (which was still a good song).
Alex Mali – “Start It Up”
YouTube recommended me this gem in late December, and I’m so thankful for it. I love just about everything about this song and this video. I’m a fan of Caribbean-tinged R&B.
Taliwhoah – “Sweet Sweet”
On that note, may I present: “Sweet Sweet,” a vibrant, sensual Afro-Caribbean vibe from British singer Taliwhoah.
Tone Stith – “Take it There”
I was introduced to Tone Stith’s music right after New Years Day and I can confidently say I’m a fan of his now after hearing this one. This dude can really, really sing.
Victoria Monét – “Made In China”
I’ve known about Victoria Monét for about 5 years now, but I only ventured to listen to her music for the first time this past month. I became a fan almost instantly, and after binging all four of her EPs, I wondered why the hell I didn’t listen to this talented woman’s music sooner.
AWA – “Like I Do”
This was my introduction to Swedish singer AWA, who apparently won the Swedish version of X Factor when she was only 15. Really dug these visuals; it has a Solange-esque flavor to it. She also seems to have a really solid voice. I’m excited to listen to her first project when it drops.
Mick Jenkins – “Carefree”
A chill, lofi joint from Chicago rapper Mick Jenkins. “If you living carefree, then you prolly don’t look like us.” Sad, but true.
Xavier Omar – “Deep End”
Really loved the beautiful songwriting on this one. “Girl you can depend on me in the deep end / I won’t let us drown, I won’t let you down.”
Dawn Richard – “Slim Thicc / Ay Papi”
Dawn Richard is one of my favorite independent artists and it’s unfortunate that her music is underappreciated by the broader pop world.
Beam – “2×2”
A great song and thoroughly enjoyable performance from Jamaican rapper Beam. With the way he switched between flows and pitches, he’s a natural performer.
Doja Cat – “Boss B*tch”
Doja Cat is such an incredibly versatile artist; she’s done a lot within the last year or so to prove that she is not just a viral meme, but a supremely talented and engaging artist.
Marco McKinnis – “Deep”
I was in my R&B/Soul bag in January. This song from Virginia-based artist Marco McKinnis came out last year but I recently discovered it and absolutely loved it. A quintessential R&B slow jam.
Mac Miller – “Blue World”
It’s certainly a “Blue World” without Mac in it. Rest easy, Mac.
Black Spasmodic 
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