Sunday, November 26, 2023
This year's announcement comes with less fanfare and far fewer words. I will say that in spite of my love for country, listening to R&B has revealed to me the depth of the lyrics and the rich sounds involved. Then there's the musicians and their incredible vocal and emotional range. Last year, NYC-based R&B artist Ayah Abdul took home the award with "Addiction", her playful, almost sultry, and very smooth debut single. This year the trend continues, with ADENI winning for her efforts on "Leavin'". This was a tough decision but, in the end, no song had a more instant impact on me. Congratulations to ADENI and best of luck in the rest of her career as a singer and songwriter. She's gonna go far.
Order of nominees:
6. "Love Me Like" by DimiG
5. "Car Sex" by Ama
T-3. Ghost" by Jamiliee
T-3. "Forfeit" by Ayah Abdul
2. "Cast Iron Skillet" by Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit
1. "Leavin'" by Adeni