YAMS' R&B Artists To Watch in 2025

Keep your eyes and ears on these future R&B stars.

2024 saw the rise of a diverse new class of R&B acts. From Isaiah Falls & Elmiene having breakout years, to Lekan opening for Tems on tour, to Shae Universe crushing her first Tiny Desk Concert — we saw that the genre was in great, diverse new hands. But who will break through in 2025 and make huge strides on what they’ve already started? These are our R&B artists to watch in 2025.

Sasha Keable (London, UK)

If we had to bet money on one person blowing up in 2025, we’d put a hefty amount on Sasha Keable. The soulful British powerhouse dropped 4 standout singles in 2024, so we can’t wait to hear a full-length project from her this year.

James Savage (Louisville, Kentucky)

James Savage is one of those artists that you hear, and you know they’re destined to be commanding massive crowds at festivals in the not-so-distant future. And we will most certainly be in the crowd for that.

kwn (London, UK)

kwn, like Sasha Keable, had a super strong 2024. Not only are her songs great, but kwn (pronounced “kay-wuhn”) has amazing songwriting abilities and has already worked with artists like Kehlani and Destin Conrad.

SAILORR (Jacksonville, Florida)

SAILORR hit the scene with “POOKIE’S REQUIEM” a few months back, and immediately captured the attention of the internet. The Vietnamese singer from Florida is gearing up to collaborate with Summer Walker on a remix for the viral song, and has more surprises up her sleeve for 2025. It’s gonna be a big year for her!

Rowena Fysx (Toronto, Canada)

Filipino-Canadian singer Rowena Fysx is such a refreshing figure in the alternative R&B space and creates music that is so mesmerizing to the ear. Give her ‘dont text me back"‘ EP a spin, and you’ll know exactly what we mean.

Genia (Victorville, California)

Do you miss the era of the uptempo R&B/pop smash? Miss the fun, early 2000s vibes that Ciara, Rihanna, and more used to delivered? Def Jam signee Genia is here to give you what you need.

Nia Smith (Brixton, UK)

The UK never ceases to amaze us when it comes to birthing immensely talented artists. Nia Smith hails from Brixton, London and takes inspiration from the likes of Lauryn Hill and Amy Winehouse. She studied musical theatre at the BRIT School, and is putting everything she’s learned to great use.

No Guidnce (UK)

With new member Eshan (joining Kaci, Zeekay, and Josh) in tow, the British R&B boy band is gearing up for a big 2025. After seeing the recent rise and success of fellow UK group FLO, we’re super hype to see where No Guidnce can take their talents and amazing harmonies.

THEHONESTGUY (Toronto, Canada)

Smooth, soulful R&B is the name of the game for THEHONESTGUY. Hailing from Toronto, THEHONESTGUY is looking to build on the success of his 2024 EP ‘Velvet Soul' in this new year.

Kenji (Brooklyn, NY)

Kenji is a Brooklyn native who makes music that just draws you in without you even realizing it. “Ear candy” would be a great description for Kenji’s music – which draws inspiration from greats like D’Angelo and Eryah Badu.

Benita (Toronto, Canada)

Intoxicating, moody vibes are exactly what Toronto’s Benita has been delivering as of late. We can’t even count how many times we’ve listened to recent single “Selfish.” We can’t wait to hear her upcoming sophomore EP ‘Sapphire’ and whatever else she has in store for 2025.