COLORSxSTUDIOS is a platform founded in 2016 to show global sounds in a minimalistic way. COLORS is continuously growing its presence on YouTube and currently has 7.25 million subscribers and over 2 billion views. The channel has featured many popular artists from Alicia Keys to Skepta, but thrives off of appearances from newer musicians with growing audiences. Here are five COLORS performances by up-and-coming Black artists from around the world to enhance your playlist.
“Muse” – Matt Ngesa
Matt Ngesa’s YouTube channel contains acoustic covers dating back to seven years ago, but 2020 is when his discography begins. He uses the COLORS stage to share his song “Muse,” which he wrote during the pandemic. His distinct voice and guitar skills add individual color to his performance. As a Kenyan indie artist, Ngesa is breaking barriers by showing the diversity of music internationally. COLORS is just the start for Matt Ngesa as he is working on the release of his first EP.
“EVERYBODY LOVES A WINNER” – Talia Goddess
Based in New York with Guyunese-British roots, Talia Goddess takes inspiration from every aspect of her identity to form a one-of-a-kind sound. From the start of her COLORS performance, she demands the stage through her charismatic energy and distinct cadence. “EVERYBODY LOVES A WINNER” is the final track on her DOWN 2 EARTH EP released in November 2023. At only 21 years old, Talia Goddess is also the founder of Trance Records, a record label and creative agency. Trance provides a safe space for young minority creatives and hosts events in New York like the annual SINDERELLA Queer Ball.
“Day by Day” – Amaria
Amaria’s songwriting, production, and vocal skills shine in her performance of “Day by Day.” The track features a rhythmic instrumental to accompany her soft yet soulful sound. Amaria is an American artist who started posting music online in early 2020, and has released two EPs, Bittersweet and All For You, since. In November 2023 she headlined her first show at The Peppermint Club in West Hollywood. This month she was named one of Spotify’s 2024 R&B Rising Artists to Watch alongside artists such as Leon Thomas and Tyla. You can catch Amaria’s “Day by Day” on the “Submissive Tour” with Destin Conrad this year!
“GROOVE WITH ME” – MAUIMØON
“GROOVE WITH ME” by MAUIMØON entices listeners to do exactly that. The blend of African and American music influence in the melody and instrumental creates an appealing sound to many audiences. MAUIMØON comes to the COLORS stage representing Uganda, with many viewers commenting on how proud they are to be his fans. In 2023 he released his first project, From Uganda With Love. While fans await what MAUIMØON has yet to come in 2024, “GROOVE WITH ME” can keep you moving in the meantime!
“Summertime” – Shaé Universe
Shaé Universe’s voice has graced single tracks for years but it wasn’t until 2022 that she released her first EP Unorthodox. She’s collaborated with other UK artists in the past such as Ms. Banks and ENNY, and is on the rise herself. The COLORS stage lets her smooth voice take the spotlight. “Summertime” captures the lingering emotions of missing the warmth of love, and her second project Love’s Letter drops on Valentine’s Day.
Each of these artists brought something new to the COLORS stage, and hopefully to your playlist as well. COLORSxSTUDIOS currently has open submissions for artists looking to be featured on their website. You can apply to submit your music here.
Want to hear more new music? Check out EnVi’s Artist Spotlights here!