UK vocalist Konyikeh has released her new EP “Cincere,” a project that reconnects the singer with her musical roots while blending influences from R&B, gqom and amapiano. The vocalist also arranged and performed some of the project’s string sections herself, highlighting her artistry and musicianship. Inspired by the Latin phrase “Ex cinere,” meaning “to rise from the ashes,” the EP explores themes of rebirth and resilience alongside the newly released video for “Jealous.” 

South African artists Sio and Daev Martian reconnect on the soulful new single “Liquor". The longtime collaborators revive their signature chemistry with a hypnotic blend of emotional storytelling and jazz-influenced production. Centered on themes of vulnerability, introspection and emotional fallout, the track uses liquor as a metaphor for fleeting escape and lingering pain, while Sio’s haunting vocal performance gives the record a deeply intimate and human feel.

Miami R&B quartet Bella Dose taps into nostalgic R&B and pop energy on their new single “Rich,” with the group channeling the empowering spirit of Destiny's Child throughout the track. Produced by Kerim Wilheim, the song blends romantic devotion with luxury-inspired imagery, emphasizing that genuine love outweighs financial wealth. Through smooth harmonies and heartfelt lyrics, Bella Dose celebrates loyalty, emotional security and standing by someone through every high and low.

Reign Judge showcases heartbreak and independence in the official video for “Infatuation,” directed by Conor Cunningham and produced by Poppy Shaw. The Queens native (also known for her work as an actress and model) channels personal experiences into the emotionally charged track, singing lyrics about betrayal, emotional detachment and moving on from dishonesty.

Dancehall icon Vybz Kartel delivers a spiritual and reflective message in the official music video for “God and Time,” directed by NOWorNEVER. The faith-centered title track finds Kartel inside a church, praising God while reflecting on the value of time and the divine purpose guiding our lives. The single appears on his highly anticipated upcoming album God & Time, which is scheduled for release on June 5, 2026, blending heartfelt lyrics with uplifting visuals and emotion.

Legendary blues and soul singer Clarence Carter has died at the age of 90. The Alabama-born artist, known for his gritty vocals and classic hits including “Patches” and “Strokin’,” passed away Thursday after battling stage 4 prostate cancer, pneumonia, and sepsis. News of his death was confirmed by FAME Studios, the iconic Muscle Shoals recording studio where Carter created many of his biggest records over the course of a career that spanned more than four decades. Born blind in Montgomery, Alabama, Carter overcame significant challenges to become one of soul music’s most recognizable voices. A self-taught guitarist, he earned a music degree from Alabama State College in 1960 before launching his recording career as part of the duo Clarence & Calvin. He later broke out as a solo artist with a string of hits, including the 1967 single “Tell Daddy,” which inspired Etta James’ response track “Tell Mama.” Carter reached new heights in 1970 with “Patches,” a deeply emotional song about a young man struggling to support his family after his father’s death. The single climbed to No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned a Grammy Award for Best R&B Song. While Carter could deliver heartfelt ballads, he also became famous for his playful and provocative recordings. His 1986 hit “Strokin’” became a cult favorite despite limited radio play because of its explicit lyrics, later gaining renewed popularity after appearing in The Nutty Professor starring Eddie Murphy. Carter’s influence extended into hip-hop as well, with his 1968 holiday track “Back Door Santa” famously sampled by Run-D.M.C. on “Christmas in Hollis.” Carter is survived by his son, Clarence Carter Jr., whom he shared with former wife and soul singer Candi Staton.

GRAMMY-winning band Tank and the Bangas have released The Last Balloon, the final chapter in their acclaimed “Balloon” trilogy following Green Balloon and Red Balloon. Featuring praised singles including “Nighttime,” “No Invite,” and “Move,” the album (which features 13 tracks in total) showcases the group’s evolving sound and creative freedom. Executive produced by Austin Brown, the project includes collaborations with Ledisi, Lucky Daye, Jelly Joseph, and Iman Omari while exploring themes of resilience, vulnerability, and self-discovery through energetic, genre-blending performances.

Breakout R&B-pop group SZN4 return with “Private Show". Driven by dancefloor-ready production, lush textures, resonant basslines, and velvety harmonies, the track blends feel-good energy with emotionally honest lyrics. “Private Show” follows February’s atmospheric release “Closer” and continues the group’s streak of combining smooth R&B melodies with infectious pop hooks. The latest single further showcases SZN4’s evolving sound and growing presence within contemporary R&B-pop.

Atlanta singer, songwriter, and producer Tyree Thomas showcases his smooth R&B style on new single “IWFI" (aka “I Fucks With It"). Backed by nimble instrumentation and laid back, but groovy production, the track finds Tyree charming a woman with compliments about her beauty and personality while hoping to turn a casual connection into something deeper. With melodic vocals and confident songwriting, “IWFI” highlights Tyree’s ability to blend romance, charisma, and modern R&B sensibilities.