After listening to one too many songs with similar melodies and others that spawn the same repetitive lyrics, it’s always refreshing to hear something different and new. In addition to our favorite American artists, it’s good to allow our musical tastes to embrace international talent.
Over the last few years, we’ve seen more American Record labels sign international artists, specifically from the UK. From Corrine Bailey Rae’s soulful, soothing ballads to new-comer Shontelle’s pop/r&b fusion, check out our list of 8 international artists you should know.
Warning: For Eclectic Minds Only
Corrine Bailey Rae
Corrine Bailey Rae’s voice is soothing and her sound is a fusion of jazz and soul. Since her debut, self-titled album in 2006, British singer-songwriter and guitarist from Leeds, has received numerous awards, including two Grammys. The singer recently, released her second album after a two year hiatus following her husbands’ death. The first single ‘I’d do it all again’ has received raved reviews.
Idris Elba
Before being known as the Hot actor Idris with the killer british accent, the as Driis the dj/musician who sings and raps. His music has been featured on Tyler Perry soundtracks and the Driis has recently been spotted guest dj-ing at different venues.
Anjulie
After her hit single ‘Crazy That Way’ debuted on MTV, the Canadian singer/songwriter received more recognition for what she had been doing for quite some time. Since then she’s toured with Bobby Ray aka B.O.B, and has written Billboard chart topping songs for other artists.
Rita Ora
When you have Jay-Z backing you, maybe you’re destined to become a star. Of course it helps if you can actually sing. Currently signed with Roc Nation, 19 year old Rita Ora is a UK singer with a voice that is definitely soulful beyond her years. While she doesn’t have an album out, the young singer has been featured on various artists’ tracks; and was the ‘it’ girl in Drakes’ ‘Over’ video.
Alexandra Burke
Beyonce loves her. The UK loves her, and we’ve recently been introduced to the British born singer, who got her start after appearing on The X-Factor. Her debut album dropped in 2009 and since then the 21-year-old singer has been praised for her vocal talents by many in the music industry, including Beyonce.
Craig David
If you’re a fan of smooth R & B, you will also be a fan of Craig David. The British singer, who has release five studio albums, has been around for a while and been quietly praised for his lyrical ability. Singing in the UK years before making his US debut in 2001, many of his tracks have reached the Billboard Hot 100 Charts. His album, Born to Do It was released in the United States, peaking at Number 11 on the Billboard 200 and sold over one million copies.
Shontelle
The Barbados born singer produces both uptempo pop songs and ballads. Of course, the Rihanna comparisons have plagued her due to the fact that they come from country. But Shontelle has proven that her vocal abilities are far beyond pop singles (no diss to Rihanna).
Laura Izibor
Irish singer and producer, Laura Izibor has opened up for Izibor has opened for Aretha Franklin, India Arie, Maxwell, and John Legend. Like most of her other. Her debut album, Let The Truth Be Told, was released in 2009.
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