Chimera Magazine
There’s nothing better than cruising down Lakeshore Drive in the summertime— windows down and music blasting at full volume. While the scenic view of the skyline and the fresh air is sure to set the tone, a perfect vibe cannot be reached without the perfect playlist. So if you’re in need of some new artists to mix into your répertoire, check out our list of 5 up-and-coming female artists from Chicago…
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Jamila Woods
Jamila Woods is a Chicago girl at heart. Growing up in a family full of music lovers on the Southside of Chicago, she began to find her own voice through a poetry class in high school. As her studies continued at Brown University, so did her poetic and artistic skills. Jamila originally dipped her toes in the music scene with features on various songs by hip-hop and Jazz artists, such as Chance the Rapper and Macklemore. Jamila’s soothing voice and natural talent pleased many listeners once she released her debut solo album in the summer of 2016. Her love for the city doesn’t only exist within her passion for music, but for her love of poetry as well. In fact, she is the Associate Artistic Director of Young Chicago Authors, a nonprofit organization aimed to help young people create and share their own stories. Her latest album, “HEAVN” is, as Jamila puts it, “a collection of non-traditional love songs pushing the idea of what makes a love song.” These songs represent her solid foundation formulated by the city of Chicago, her family and friends, and self-care. Her words are influential, and her passion is pure— a powerful combination for all of us girls out there.
Rene Marban for MSNBC
Noname
It’s easy for many artists to get caught up in the fame or the idea of being well-known by others. The refreshing idea behind Noname’s change from her birth name of Fatimah Nyeema Warner is only one of the reasons you are bound to love her as much as we do. This native of Bronzeville is a strong female leader who doesn’t believe that anyone but herself can tell her what she can or cannot do. The purpose behind her name change is best explained by Noname herself: “I try to exist without blinding myself to labels… For me, not having a name expands my creativity. I’m able to do anything. Noname could potentially be a nurse…Noname could be a screenwriter. I’m not limited to any one category of art or other existence.” She began rapping locally and performing slam poetry in 2010, but gained recognition through her collaborations with local Chicago artists like Mick Jenkins and Saba. Her first mixtape, “Telefone”, was finally released in 2016 after three years of hard work and dedication. It’s centered around important telephone conversations that she has had in her life— speaking on women’s pain and growing up in Chicago. Her lyrics are profound and relatable, and I know they reflect her genuine character.
Christopher Wray-Mccann for Chicago Tribune
Lili K
Driven and dedicated, Lili K is an example for women worldwide that a single person can ignite change in the face of societal issues. While she was originally known for features on songs by Vic Mensa and Chance the Rapper, Lili released a self-produced album of her own in 2015, entitled “Ruby”. Her hit single “Magic” also works to combat the misogyny and sexism that exists in our world, and it’s used at various rape crisis centers, domestic violence centers, and universities to promote resolutions to this pressing issue. Lili K also works with the Lili K Band when performing live, and they are currently working together on a second studio album to be released this fall. Lili’s full name is Liliana Kryzanek, and while she was originally born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, she considers herself Chicago-based. This jazz and soul vocalist attended Columbia College and continues to value her education to this day. Lili is paving her way through the music industry at a rapid rate, and recently became a background vocalist on Fox’s hit show “Empire”. Keep an eye out as Lili K rises to fame while staying true to her core principles.
Chimera Magazine
Ravyn Lenae
Ever heard the phrase “wise beyond her years”? That sentiment embodies the lyrics and character of this rising R & B singer. Ravyn Lenae Washington, born on the Southside of Chicago, impresses listeners with her talent, unique for someone of her age. Only 19 years old, Ravyn’s sound is soulful, purposeful, and will send chills down your spine. In addition, the amount of commitment this young woman has towards progressing her career is awe-inpsiring. As only a sophomore in high school, Ravyn used her own money for a studio session enabling her to record and produce her first single “Greetings”. And while her debut EP “Moon Shoes” was first released independently in 2016, it was not long until an agency picked up this talented star. Her follow-up EP “Moonlight” dropped the next year, with songs just as stunning as the first. Ravyn credits her developing interests and abilities in music to her participation at church throughout her childhood. Her songwriting began all the way back in middle school, but that’s no surprise as her lyrics exude experience and maturity. Since then, Ravyn has gone on to tour with other strong women like SZA and NONAME.
Jamie Gray for Chicago Tribune
Carlile
When we hear the word ‘pop’, we think of flipping through radio stations in the car while hearing the same song come on over and over again. Yet, after hearing Carlile pour her heart out in her debut EP “Strange”, we realize that she has redefined the category. Carlile likes to think of her sound as “pop music with substance”. With roots in genres all across the board, pop is not just the catchy love songs that first come to mind. Nonetheless, Carlile is no newcomer to Chicago’s musical arena. As the lead vocalist in band “Woo Park” for many years, Carlile acknowledges this experience as a huge influence on her own personal work. And while the band is on hiatus, she continues to progress independently. The minimal production on her album allows for listeners to focus on her raw talent, although she has gathered a backing band for live performances. This young Chicagoan gained her musical knowledge after spending a semester abroad in a German music school. It’s hard not to admire an artist with an expansive background in her field, and it definitely shows in her breathtaking tunes. So look no further for a new sound to checkout: Add a Carlile to your queue.