Shiv is a Zimbabwe-born, Kildare-raised R&B artist who we picked as one of our favourite new Irish artists of 2020.
Shiv just released her debut EP Me 2 Me. Here the artist shares her top songs of the year.
1.
Pip Millett – Deeper Dark
Pip Millet has such a way with melodies, and the simplicity of this track allows her vocal melody to be the focal point. For me this is such a “singy” song, if I’m in the mood to have a sing in the shower I always stick it on. It was so easy to come back to and I love the way the lyrics flow.
2.
SAULT – Free
SAULT have an incredibly unique but accessible production style. Even without a huge PR campaign, their music managed to rise to the top because of its quality and its message. The melody in the chorus and the end portion is so powerful and uplifting, and is full of so much soul. Unbelievable artistry and one of many great songs from their album “Untitled (Rise).”
3.
Childish Gambino – 12:38
This is a song that you could slot into any setting and it would sound great. It’s easy listening, but also has such a cool bassline and the story Childish Gambino narrates throughout keeps you hooked.
4.
Amber Mark – Gorgeous
This is such a sexy song with a gorgeously smooth string sample – for me it was always a getting ready song, just as I’m finishing up, I’d put it on and have a little dance in the mirror, and leave the house feeling HAWT.
5.
Lex Amor – Odogwu (Freestyle)
Lex Amor’s tone is so chill and unique, and the drums in this kind of match the almost dragging style of her voice. Such a good walking song cos I always feel cool when I listen to it.. anyone else have walking songs they feel cool to or just me?
6.
Lola Young – Pick Me Up
Another “singy” song for me. Lola Young has such a strong and soulful voice. I had this playing on repeat throughout lockdown, it was perfect for those days when spring was drifting into summer.
7.
Frank Ocean – Cayendo
It was such a welcome surprise when Frank Ocean released these tracks – I feel like every Frank Ocean fan has been impatiently waiting for the next album since Blonde, but this song, along with “April”, are such a lovely reprise. Frank Ocean has the ability to create such an immersive experience with all of his tracks, and even in its simplicity, Cayendo is no exception.
8.
Aby Coulibaly – Taurus
Aby has been making waaaaves this year, and it’s no surprise cos her voice is *chefs kiss*. This really is a “summer drive with the windows down” kinda track. So excited to hear more!
9.
Luke Gomm – I’m Thru
This song gives me Daft Punk vibes and with the feel good melody it’s such a lovely listen. It’s hard to keep the melody out of your head and the baseline is funkyyyy.
10.
Rachel Chinouriri – Give Me A Reason
Rachel Chinouriri’s voice is ridiculous and she could make anything sound unreal. This song feels so sophisticated and I love the lyricism.
