6 Black Performing Artists Based in Arkansas You Need To Hear

Music is my love language. Black history is my lineage. Arkansas is my home.

I’m sharing my love of both with a tribute to my homeplace in this month’s journal. I’ve also been in my own bag, writing music and singing…more to come on that later. 😉

Let me know if any of these artists are new to you, folks you’re familiar with, and/or any other Arkansan artists you’d like to share.

Enjoy!

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@afroshoujo?lang=en

Kawaii, hip-hop, magic and music = Afroshouji. Our local magical girl. From her stylish Kawaii outfits to her magical flows, sis has got it going on. Fun fact, she speaks German and can sing opera! She even fuses hip hop and opera in some of her music.

Take a listen to her most recent mixtape.

Did I mention she is a traveling artist, maybe book her for your next event!

Lastly, she’s part of a cosplay idols group called: Ebonique Stars!

“But what is Ebonique Stars? 🌟🤎
This group was created to give Brown idols a space to shine! A place where our voices, creativity, and culture could be celebrated in the idol world. The name Ebonique comes from ebony — a word that represents strength, beauty, and resilience. Just like ebony wood, it’s rare, powerful, and enduring. That’s what we want to reflect: that Brown idols are not only present, but we belong, and we sparkle just as brightly as the stars. ✨” ←copied straight from their social media

The cuteness you never knew you needed! Let me stop fan-girling over here.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/osyrusbolly/

Osyrus is an artist activists and marries his musical talents to talk about social politics. Did I mention he also serves on the Little Rock School Board and is the Co-Founder/Lead Organizer for the Little Rock Freedom Fund?

Check out his most recent single

Oldie, but goodie. This song also features other local artists, gotta love the collaboration.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kamireneemusic/

I went to high school with Kami Renee and it’s been so cool to see her continue to do music from then until now, sis has been in the game a longgg time. She plays the flute and guitar plus she sings and produces music. As she says in her bio she’s a jane of all trades!

Her music is soothing, vibes that I enjoy on an easy Sunday. 😌

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshua_asante/?hl=en

I experienced Joshua’s music live at the White Water Tavern and his music took me on a spiritual and experimental journey. He is a painter, photographer, and musician. I appreciate his style of music, it feels very transcendental almost as if he can paint with his music. When you listen, close your eyes and let me know if you see what I mean.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/candyvocalsSING/

Now when people say folks can sang, they was talking about people like Candy Soul. Her name says it all. Her rich vocals are sweet like candy and her sanging makes your soul smile! She was recently featured to accompany Marc Shaiman at the Clinton Foundation Center, which I’ve linked below. You can also check out her music here: https://www.reverbnation.com/candysoul

Let’s wrap this up with some Rock n’ Roll!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekinghoneyofficial/?hl=en

Dazz “King Honey” Murry is a 2x Emmy-nominated composer, creative director, and multi-hyphenate artist. I also saw King Honey live and greatly appreciate their fluidity in rock n roll music. Their voice is a cocktail of sultry sexy and the lyrics are so direct it feels as if she is singing right to you. A powerful combination indeed.

I hope you enjoy these exceptionally diverse singers, rappers, and performing artists from good ole Arkansaw. Our state is rich with artists and I can’t wait to continue to share with you! This summer I’ll traveling the state to attend some local festivals. Turns out this country state has some cool country festivals. Stay tuned!

until the next moon,

arkansawblk

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