Anyone can engage in conversations about Taylor Swift’s hold on pop culture or Beyoncé’s country turn. However, you don’t necessarily have to know the music; at a certain point, it may not even be about the music.
If you aim to engage in discussions centered around music—perhaps with your children, grandchildren, or friends—finding new music that resonates with your taste can be challenging. With so many different types and genres being released, it can feel overwhelming to discover what you enjoy.
Here at iBestTravel, we’re dedicated to guiding your musical journey. We will begin with some foundational touchstones of music’s past—those enduring artists who continue to define genres and eras—thereby connecting them to present recommendations of new music that may resonate with what you’ve appreciated previously.
If you liked B.B. King… try Christone ‘Kingfish’ Ingram
It doesn’t hurt that Ingram’s mother was named Princess. Young Ingram is the new prince of Blues, hailing from Clarksdale, Mississippi, a town rich in blues history. While titans like Son House and Muddy Waters shaped 20th-century music, Ingram brings new life to the genre in the 21st century through his electrifying guitar skills, strong vocals, and charismatic personality.
At just 25, he has released three albums, each garnering a Grammy nomination, already winning the award for best contemporary blues for his album 662 in 2022. His compositions reflect a blend that moves beyond strict blues boundaries, allowing influences from other genres while maintaining his roots.
If you liked Alanis Morissette… try Faye Webster
Breakups can evoke profound emotions, often leading to powerful music. Just as Morissette transformed her heartbreak into her seminal hit “You Oughta Know,” Atlanta-based Webster channels her experiences into her latest album, Underdressed at the Symphony. Unlike Morissette, who expresses raw rage, Webster’s approach is introspective and deeply personal.
Exploring themes of happiness through a nuanced lens, her lyrics are minimal yet evocative, showcasing her remarkable growth as an artist. With a fusion of genres, including country and chamber pop, Webster has cultivated a rich sound that continues to resonate with listeners.
If you liked Sly & the Family Stone… try Black Pumas
The connections between Black Pumas and Sly & the Family Stone are evident. Their eponymous 2019 debut album showcases smooth soul and funk inspired by the legendary sounds of the past. In their follow-up album, Chronicles of a Diamond, they delve into various genres while retaining their artistic essence, highlighting a modern take on classic influences.
You be the D.J.
Crafting mixtapes may have been labor-intensive, but modern streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music have simplified the process of creating personalized playlists. iBestTravel has curated a special playlist featuring 54 tracks that highlight new artists alongside their influential predecessors.
Here is a sampling of songs on our curated playlist:
- “The Thrill is Gone” — B.B. King
- “Believe These Blues” — Christone “Kingfish” Ingram
- “You Oughta Know” — Alanis Morissette
- “Black Moon Rising” — Black Pumas
Explore these contemporary artists inspired by the giants of the past. Let your musical journey flourish with a mixture of nostalgia and innovation.
Note: This article aims to illuminate the vibrant connections in music across different generations. Enjoy the exploration!
Contributing Writer: Steve Hochman has covered popular music extensively, contributing to major publications and serving as a critic for public radio. His vast experience enriches your understanding of music.
