Student Critique
Use the drop down menus below to learn about some artists who are significant to the Black community and explore some natural talents!
Cynthia Erivo
Cynthia Erivo’s performance of “Alfie” at the 46th Kennedy Center Honors is a powerful and emotionally resonant interpretation. Her vocal ability shines through, showcasing her range and control, which perfectly complements the song’s poignant themes of love and longing.
Erivo’s stage presence is magnetic, drawing the audience into the emotional depth of the lyrics. She infused the performance with a sense of vulnerability, making it relatable and heartfelt. The arrangement supported her voice well, allowing her to shine without overwhelming the song’s delicate nature.
Cynthia Onyedinmanasu Chinasaokwu Erivo is an English actress and singer. She gained recognition for starring in the Broadway revival of The Color Purple from 2015 to 2017, for which she won the 2016 Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical and the Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album.
Brent Faiyaz
Brent Faiyaz’s “Clouded” Apple Music Live Performance is a captivating showcase of his artistry and vocal prowess. From the moment he steps on stage, Faiyaz exudes a relaxed yet confident energy that draws the audience in.
His vocal delivery is smooth and emotive, effortlessly navigating the song’s intricate melodies while infusing it with a raw honesty that resonates deeply. The production is sleek and atmospheric, enhancing the song’s introspective themes of love, confusion, and self-reflection. The live arrangement complements his voice beautifully, allowing for moments of both intimacy and intensity.
Christopher Brent Wood, known professionally as Brent Faiyaz, is an American singer, songwriter, rapper, and record producer. Known for his “sly vocals” and his “atmospheric slow jam productions”, Faiyaz is recognized for his R&B and soul music and his occasional rapping.
Jazmine Sullivan
Jazmine Marie Sullivan is an American R&B and soul singer-songwriter. She has won two Grammy Awards, a Billboard Women in Music Award, and two BET Awards over the course of her career. In 2022, Time placed her on their list of the 100 Most Influential People.
Jazmine Sullivan’s Tiny Desk (Home) Concert is a mesmerizing exhibition of her vocal talent and emotional depth. From the very first note, her rich, soulful voice captures the audience’s attention, showcasing her impressive range and control. Songs like “Pick Up Your Feelings” and “Lost One” highlight her ability to effortlessly shift between powerful belts and delicate, intimate passages, revealing a vulnerability that resonates deeply. The thoughtfully curated setlist blends new material with fan favorites, and the stripped-down arrangements allow her vocals to take center stage, fostering an intimate atmosphere that feels both personal and inviting. Sullivan’s emotional engagement is a standout aspect; her candid storytelling and warm interactions with the audience create a connection that transforms the performance into a shared experience.
These are just some current artists who I find significant to modern music, as they are a skillful representation of vocal ability and agility, as well as musicality and lyricism that resonate with the masses.
