10 Emerging Artists Redefining the Sound
(2026 Spotlight)
Neo-soul is in another renaissance moment. Across the UK, Europe, and North America, a new generation of artists is reshaping the genre — blending classic soul textures with jazz, R&B, alternative, and global influences.
This emerging class isn’t chasing nostalgia. They’re redefining softness, vulnerability, and groove for a new era.
Neo-soul has never been about trends. It’s about feeling. Texture. Vulnerability. Groove.
In 2026, a new generation of artists across the UK, Europe, and the United States is reshaping the genre — blending jazz phrasing, alternative R&B, gospel roots, electronic minimalism, and global influences into something intimate and future-facing.
They’re not imitating the past. They’re expanding it.
Here are 10 emerging artists leading the charge.
UK & International Voices
Skye Newman
Location: UK
Sound: Jazz-inflected neo-soul with confessional lyricism
Skye Newman has quickly become one of the UK’s most talked-about new soul voices. With emotionally rich singles like “Hairdresser” and “Family Matters,” she brings storytelling to the forefront — weaving personal reflection into lush, live-sounding production.
Her tone is warm yet commanding, reminiscent of classic British soul traditions but rooted firmly in the present. There’s a vulnerability in her writing that feels lived-in rather than manufactured — a quality that’s resonating strongly with young listeners navigating identity and independence.
Why she stands out:
Intimate song writing + jazz textures + undeniable vocal control.
Día Day
Location: South London
Sound: Alternative R&B meets neo-soul minimalism
Emerging from South London’s fertile creative scene, Dia Day delivers a silky yet emotionally sharp take on neo-soul. Her music leans into subtle production — moody keys, restrained percussion, spacious arrangements — allowing her expressive voice to carry the emotional weight.
There’s a quiet confidence in her delivery. She doesn’t over sing. She feels.
Why she stands out:
Understated power and a modern UK soul aesthetic.
Nectar Woode
Location: UK (British-Ghanaian)
Sound: Soul, jazz, and global rhythms
Nectar Woode brings something particularly rich to the neo-soul space — cultural layering. Her music blends warm soul melodies with jazz phrasing and subtle West African influences, creating a textured and immersive listening experience.
Her vocal tone is honeyed yet precise, floating effortlessly over intricate arrangements. There’s depth in her artistry — both musically and visually — that signals long-term impact.
Why she stands out:
Global fusion meets sophisticated soul song writing.
Psiryn
Location: UK
Sound: Harmony-driven contemporary R&B
Psiryn represents the return of tight vocal harmony in modern R&B. As an all-female duo, they bring a blend of softness and strength, layering voices in a way that feels nostalgic yet fresh.
Their sound leans more contemporary R&B than traditional neo-soul, but the emotional transparency and groove-based production keep them firmly in the conversation.
Why they stand out:
Strong harmonies + radio-ready soul energy.
JELISA
Location: Amsterdam
Sound: Smooth European neo-soul
JELISA is part of a growing continental movement redefining soul music outside of traditional US/UK centre’s. Her sound is clean, atmospheric, and groove-centered — built for late-night listening.
Her vocal delivery is effortless and fluid, balancing restraint with emotion. She represents how neo-soul has become truly global.
Why she stands out:
Continental cool + timeless soul phrasing.
The Bigger Picture: Neo-Soul in 2026
What unites these artists isn’t just genre — it’s intention.
This new wave embraces:
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Emotional transparency
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Softness as strength
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Jazz-leaning instrumentation
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Cultural hybridity
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Independent creative identity
Neo-soul has always been about authenticity over spectacle. And this generation is proving that the genre’s future is expansive, global, and deeply personal.
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