I see people complain about today’s music all the time as if there’s not exceptional music available everywhere. With that in mind, I’m going to post (hopefully on a regular basis) some of the artists I’m enjoying right now. My not-so-subtle desire is that a promoter will see this post and decide to bring these people. Today’s post is six female artists in various genres who I hope will perform in Houston sometime soon. *wink wink Houston promoters*

Alex Isley – yes, she’s that type of Isley. The daughter of Ernie Isley (and therefore niece of Mr. Biggs), I love her voice and can’t wait to see her live. My favorite project of hers is The Love/Art Memoirs EP but my favorite song might be her N.E.R.D. cover.

Cecile McLorin Salvant – young jazz singer extraordinaire, I saw her at Wortham and immediately bought her Womanchild album. Listening to her talk about her experiences in Paris it almost seems as if she’s channeling a bit of Baldwin through her voice. You should hear her explain why she decided to sing a song popularized by Bacharach and Sinatra despite its blatant misogyny. Salvant won a Grammy for Best Jazz Vocal Album, and Da Camera is bringing her back December 3, 2016 so get your tickets when they go on sale!

Willow Smith – I like Willow Smith’s music. This is Will and Jada Pinkett Smith’s daughter for those that don’t know. Also Jaden Smith’s sister for those who keep up with his Twitter musings. This song is from her debut album ARDIPITHECUS from last year. Willow might be an acquired taste but I’m a fan.

Snoh Aalegra – I’m pretty new to Swedish singer Snoh Aalegra but she put out a solid EP this year with Don’t Explain. Here’s a sample featuring James Fauntleroy who writes a bunch for Rihanna and co-wrote an entire Justin Timberlake album.

Leikeli47 – the masked rapper/singer from Brooklyn provides aggressive beats and lyrics to match her appearance. And I actually saw her riding around SXSW with the mask on so she’s dedicated. I’m wondering when she’ll put out an album to follow up her most recent Lk-47 Part III mixtape.

Sza – y’all have probably heard of Sza but she hinted that she’s coming out with new music before her September festival dates and her 2014 EP Z was phenomenal. As both the only woman and singer signed to Top Dawg Entertainment, you may recognize the names of her labelmates Kendrick Lamar and Schoolboy Q.  I remember Sza saying in an interview that her style comes from singing over MF Doom beats, which is awesome. Also she makes a reference to Pepper Ann in the song below.

If you like these artists please let me (and the promoters) know! I might start making playlists if there’s enough interest as well.