As the music dies down from the afterparties of the Brit Awards celebrations, it’s impossible to overlook the seismic shift towards inclusivity and empowerment that resonated through the event.
This year’s ceremony wasn’t just about recognising talent; it was about celebrating the fantastic female musical prowess that has been a driving force in our industry for decades but hasn’t always been given the credit that it truly deserves.
This year, a momentous 12 out of the 17 Brit Awards were won by female artists. I genuinely feel privileged to have been present during this remarkable shift – one speaks volumes about the unparalleled talent, resilience, and impact of women in music and the indelible mark they have left on the musical landscape.
Continuing this celebration of female talent in our often-challenging industry, I want to share some of the incredible female artists I’ve discovered and come to love through my recent obsession with the Tiny Desk Concerts by NPR over on YouTube.
If you’ve not come across these before, they are beautifully intimate and stripped-back 20-minute sets recorded in the corner of an office. These mini off-stage performances have introduced me to – and brought me back to – a wealth of talent globally, and I’m thrilled to shine a spotlight on a few of my favourite female performances that I’ve discovered over the past few weeks:
NoName
Her lyrical prowess and introspective storytelling shine through in her Tiny Desk performance. With a blend of jazz, hip-hop, and spoken word, NoName’s performance is both captivating and thought-provoking, with a perfect delivery.
Kelela
With her mesmerising vocals and genre-defying sound, Kelela’s Tiny Desk Concert is a masterclass in modern R&B. Her ability to seamlessly blend electronic beats and droning synths with soulful melodies is nothing short of breathtaking. A beautiful performance indeeed.
Tinashe
A true powerhouse performer, Tinashe’s Tiny Desk Concert showcases her versatility and stage presence. From infectious pop hits to soulful ballads, Tinashe effortlessly commands the stage and leaves a lasting impression. You can feel her true love for music throughout this beautiful set. I wouldn’t change a thing.
Hania Rani
The Polish pianist and composer mesmerises with her delicate yet powerful performance. Her intricate melodies and emotive playing style create a spellbinding experience that transports listeners to another realm. A fantastic collage of organic and electronic with a wonderfully emotive voice that ties this performance together perfectly.
Aja Monet
A poet and performer, Aja Monet’s Tiny Desk performance is a raw and unfiltered expression of emotion. Her words resonate deeply, touching on themes of love, loss, and the human experience with profound sincerity and mesmerising delivery
I really struggled to keep that to just 5. In fact, I’m rather annoyed that I can’t list them all! So here are some honorary mentions that are really worth checking out if you need more solid female talent!
Olivia Rodrigo: Not someone I had expected to make it onto this list, however, her unplugged Tiny Desk performance shines a spotlight on her genuine talent (of which she has many) and her performance oozes real emotion throughout. A captivating stage presence and heartfelt delivery made her performance memorable and flawless.
Arlo Parks: Recognised for her soul-baring lyrics and introspective melodies, Arlo Parks has garnered widespread acclaim for her captivating music – and now poetry. Her ability to capture the essence of human emotions in her songs has solidified her status as a rising star in the industry. Truly standout.
Caroline Polachek: A boundary-pushing performance. She defies categorisation with her ethereal soundscapes and experimental approach to pop music. Her fearless creativity and haunting vocals have earned her a dedicated following, cementing her reputation as a visionary in the industry.
Laufey: From Iceland, Laufey brings a mesmerising Tony Desk performance with enchanting vocals and intricate compositions. Drawing inspiration from jazz and folk traditions, her music weaves a tapestry of emotions, inviting listeners into a world of beauty and introspection, and pulls you into a world from long ago.
Nile Rodgers & CHIC: Whilst Nile Rodgers fronts CHIC, the iconic disco group has two main front-women who really got my attention when I saw them live last Summer. They truly dazzle with their infectious energy and flawless vocals. Their irresistible grooves and uplifting melodies serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of disco music and the power of female voices in shaping popular culture.
Becky G: With her dynamic performances and unapologetic style, Becky G has become a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. But her stripped-back performance with a backing band and string quartet really worked and allowed her talent to shine outside of her polished pop hits. Her confidence and boundless energy but also her down-to-earth vibe was infectious.
J Noa: A versatile singer-songwriter, at just 17 at the time of recording, J Noa captivates audiences with her soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Her music speaks to the human experience with honesty and authenticity, creating a profound connection with listeners and leaving an indelible impact. A very impressive rapper! You’ll need subtitles.
Chlöe: Known for her dynamic vocals and commanding stage presence, Chlöe’s Tiny Desk Concert showcases her versatility and artistry. I loved her powerful vocals and emotive delivery, effortlessly transitioning between genres. She has an ability to connect on a deep emotional level and made for truly memorable performance.
These remarkable women exemplify the diversity and talent present in the music industry today. Their achievements serve as inspiration for aspiring artists everywhere, underscoring the importance of celebrating female artists in music.
These Tiny Desk performances not only showcase the immense talent of these artists but also offer a glimpse into their unique artistic vision and creative expression. Each artist brings something special to the stage, captivating audiences with their authenticity, passion, and undeniable talent.
As we continue our journey towards a more equitable and inclusive music industry, let’s keep lifting each other up, championing diversity, and creating spaces where every voice is heard and celebrated.
Please celebrate these wonderfully taented female artists with them and check out heir amazing videos. I’ve either embedded their video or linked directly to their performance. Please do check them out. You won’t be disappointed.
Stay groovy,
NTRIK
