Ari Lennox: The Voice of 2023's R&B Scene

Ari Lennox is seen as the singer who is bringing back that soulful and soothing element to R&B music. Her soulful voice and use of signature notes at the end of certain lines sets her apart from any other artists in the genre right now. Her independent projects “Ariography” and “Five Finger Discount” marked her first releases over the internet — between 2009 and 2012.

Soon afterward, the singer was picked up and signed by J. Cole to his Dreamville Records label, after her music started gaining traction. Since then she has been featured in the label’s compilation tapes “Revenge of the Dreamers II” and “Revenge of the Dreamers III,” released in 2015 and 2019 respectively. While working under the label, she released her first project “Pho” in 2016. This was followed by “Shea Butter Baby,” her debut studio album – released in 2019.

Continue reading for a quick rundown of how Ari Lennox’s music is changing the world of R&B.

Released back in 2022, this was Lennox’s second studio album and the latest compilation of music from the soulful artist. In this 12-song project, the singer takes listeners on her journey of self-discovery where she prioritizes having her carnal needs met without compromising/ignoring self-love.

Speaking about the tracks in her latest album, the singer-songwriter singled “Mean Mug” as her favorite song. She revealed, “It's just a soulful, special masterpiece to me.” The singer said this when talking about the song and how it is a perfect example of how she romanticizes special connections/love. The track can be described as Lennox channeling her inner Erykah Badu as she sprinkles “There's a magic in your eyes,” throughout the Theo Corker trumpet solo chorus.

In the same album, Lennox shows her confident and seductive appeal in songs like “Leak It” and “Stop By.” The former talks about sharing personal and intimate videos – and is assisted by Chloe Bailey.

On tracks like “Queen Space” and “Blocking You” the singer reels in on the excitement associated with infatuation and new love, by setting boundaries and emphasizing the importance of self-love.

In addition to her latest album, Ari Lennox has also worked on a feature with legendary R&B artist Babyface. The two combined forces in creating the single “Liquor” – which is part of Babyface’s new album titled “Girls Night Out.” Talking about the fast-rising star, Babyface had this to say, “Her voice is an important voice, and I think that it’s just the beginning for her.”

Released in late 2023, “Get Close” is the first solo project that Ari Lennox has offered up this year. In the single, Lennox uses her soulful voice and unique wordplay to express her desire to get closer to her suitor even though they don’t appear to see eye-to-eye on a variety of issues.

It is yet to be seen whether the new single, which is co-produced by DZL and Wu10, will be part of her much anticipated third studio album.