With the rise of Auto-Tune, we have seen a myriad of new artists making their way into the music industry, many of whom rely on the appeal and popularity of the sound the audio processor creates to support their careers. The Auto-Tune sound is loved by few and hated by many, and with each new song those numbers only rise on both sides. Originally made popular by Roger Troutman, the lead singer of the ’80s group, Zapp, the Auto-Tune was once called the “talkbox.” The “talkbox” was used with a keyboard and a synthesizer to create the now infamous distorted vocal effects.
T-Pain resurrected the “talkbox” in the mid 2000s with an updated version of the technology, Auto-Tune. Auto-Tune is a production plug-in used to correct pitch in vocal performances. After years of radio overkill, the trend that sparked has, unfortunately, left R&B lovers’ thirst for true talent unquenched. Since its re-introduction, many artists, both talented and not, have hopped on the bandwagon. Even artists, such as R. Kelly, Jamie Foxx, and Mary J. Blige, all renowned for their vocal talent, have used the Auto-Tune gimmick. This leaves many of their fans asking, why? One assumes this was mostly done in an effort to increase record sales before the fad skipped town.
On the bright side, there are many who refuse to let the skills R&B/Soul is known for disappear. With the industry in full backlash mode, there is another movement of artists who have talented voices and are not afraid to use them. These male and female artists are resurrecting R&B with their vocal graces, most certainly welcomed in these most dire of times…
BJ the Chicago Kid…
BJ the Chicago Kid
Growing up in the city of Chicago is hard enough for any artist, now imagine having the exterior of a rapper but the songs and voice of a singer. But BJ the Chicago Kid takes all these things in stride. He has worked underground for many years, writing for other artists ranging from Kanye West to Stevie Wonder. Now, he is ready to take the world by storm as he steps out of the background to showcase his owns skills.
Vikter Duplaix
Vikter Duplaix
If you have been looking for the soul to come back to R&B, search no further. Hailing from Philly, Vikter Duplaix is a multi-instrumentalist singer, producer and songwriter. He has released several solo records and been featured alongside other soul singers, such as Erykah Badu, Eric Benet, and Jaguar Wright. His sophomore album “Bold and Beautiful” features a track nominated at the 2008 Grammy Awards for Best Urban/Alternative Performance.
Melanie Fiona
Melanie Fiona
The Canadian songwriter, who opened for Kanye West during his European Tour in 2008, is ready to make her mark grabbing the ears of many with sultry sound.
Tony Henry
Tony Henry
Signed to Houston rap artist Chamillionaire’s, Chamillitary Entertainment label, Tony Henry brings that southern twang while delivering a sound not seen since Anthony Hamilton burst on the scene.
Mayer Hawthorne
Mayer Hawthorne
Now do not let his look or name fool you. If you are looking for another Robin Thicke or even Justin Timberlake, look away now. Mayer Hawthorne’s sound, rather, sends you a time where doo-wop was the craze. So, eliminate any comparisons or questions about his talent… or skin color.
Which new or underground artists do you like? Let us know below…
