Kwami Maranga, Binghamton University

As three of rap’s biggest stars reunite to commemorate their successful careers, it’s time we take a look back at their legacies that were years in the making.

Avery Heeringa, Columbia College Chicago

Queen Bey delivers her seventh studio album filled to the brim with empowerment, immaculate energy and groove.

Kwami Maranga, Binghamton University

While recent releases may be following larger trends, the music also reveals something interesting about a genre defined by love songs.

Avery Heeringa, Columbia College Chicago

Thanks in part to the introduction of her work to streaming services, a forgotten artist is reborn.

Sonia Noorbakhsh, UC Berkeley

This indie group might be known for a few specific songs, but they have so many unique, underrated gems in their discography.

Sonia Noorbakhsh, UC Berkeley

The band can’t be defined by a single genre, which is just one of the qualities that makes them so unique.

Sonia Noorbakhsh, UC Berkeley

The beloved artist released a new record after a five-year wait, which comes complete with mature vocals and styles.

Virginia Laurie, Washington and Lee University

The duo formed by icons Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak released a record full of ’70s-inspired bops to their audiences’ absolute delight.

Re’nesia Mills, University of Tampa

After a two-year wait, the American R&B singer is preparing to release her second album that is sure to have female fans in their feels and craving more.

Mariam Nasief, Columbia University

Her new hit solo single, which evokes the R&B sounds of the ’90s, shows off the singer’s prowess both as an artist and as an entertainer.

Mai Senser, Virginia Commonwealth University

In the first half of her sophomore record, the singer-songwriter has taken control of her own narrative, exploring a wide variety of musical genres.

Sarah Esquivel, University of Texas at San Antonio

With plenty of highly anticipated releases and online concerts slated for this year, here are the female artists to keep an ear out for.

Laura Song, Biola University

These musicians sound a little different from their K-pop counterparts, but the music is just as good.

Renee Cantor, University of Pittsburgh

Sibling acts like the Jackson 5, the Jonas Brothers, HAIM and the Bee Gees need to make room because there’s a new and ferocious sister duo that’s here to stay.

Madelyn Haasken, Bemidji State University

Using beautiful melodies, catchy beats and lyrics that stick with you, this music reflects the struggles of these tumultuous times.

Gabrielle Pascal, Hofstra University

American pop culture has been defined by black excellence for decades. From Gordon Parks to Aaliyah, black artists continue to influence the new generation.

Michelle Young, Simon Fraser University

Contemporary rhythm and blues has been one of the most prominent musical styles over the past few years — what are these global newcomers adding to the mix?

Michelle Young, Simon Fraser University

The electronic artist’s latest record draws on personal experiences and mixes a wide range of genres to create something mesmerizing and boldly experimental.

Rickea Bell, Saint Peter’s University

These two have been working hard for their whole careers. It’s time to see them work together.

Cynthia Vasquez, Rutgers University, New Brunswick

After falling a little behind the times, its smooth sounds are back to capture the ears and hearts of listeners.

Rickea Bell, Saint Peter’s University

This album is the comeback of R&B no one knew we needed.

Mela Lozano, University of Texas at San Antonio

He will have you reminiscing about your first love in every song.

Eric Alexander, University of Colorado Denver

One of the U.K.’s fastest-rising producers is expanding his signature style.

Myah Clinton, University of Alabama at Birmingham

Mostly because Lucious is just too ridiculously terrible.

Maya Ramani, University of Virginia

10/10 would recommend taking a listen.

Jamie Lovley, University of Maine

The album’s impressive streaming record might actually be its least surprising quality.

Emilie Romero, University of Nevada

After years of financial struggles, Kali Uchis has finally found success in the music industry.

Xavier Austin Reyna, University of Texas at San Antonio

Watch out this month – artists are dropping albums like no tomorrow and you’ve got to be prepared. Here’s a list of some you should definitely look out for.

Onaje McDowelle, University of Texas at Austin

If these music artists can make their way to the SXSW stage, this year will be unlike any other the festival has seen before.

Joiya Reid, Georgia Southern University

Jump onboard if you are tired of heart-wrenching ballads.

Tyler Fitch, Florida State University

Ricardo Valdez Valentine, a.k.a 6LACK, is channeling his traumatic upbringing into rhyme with great success.