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#keiyaa #vinyl #vinylrecords
Keiyaa, an exceptional R&B artist, has seen her outstanding 2020 debut LP, “Forever, Ya Girl,” gain the recognition it truly deserves with a reissue by XL Recordings. Initially self-released at the start of 2020, this new soul gem captivated audiences through word-of-mouth, becoming a coveted treasure among those in the know. With sharp, insightful lyrics over raw yet polished production, the album has transcended its modest beginnings to be hailed among the best from a burgeoning spectrum of DIY R&B artists. This acclaim has led Keiyaa to collaborate with notable artists such as MIKE, Armand Hammer, Loraine James, Nilüfer Yanya, Bartees Strange, Nick Hakim, Mount Kimbie, Nubya Garcia, and more.
Hailing from Chicago’s south side and now based in New York City, Keiyaa’s music bridges the gap between past and present, showcasing a rare grasp of jazz freedom and soul-stirring vibes. Her debut album, “Forever, Ya Girl,” is a testament to her unique sound, with 16 tracks that intricately weave complex, multi-tracked choral harmonies and knuckle-bite grooves. Each track exudes a breezy immediacy that resonates deeply with listeners. From the silk-cut swoon of “I Thot There Was One Wound In This House, There’s Two” to the underwater gospel of “Rectifya” and the off-kilter blues of “Hvnli,” the album is a journey through diverse musical landscapes.
The production on “Forever, Ya Girl” is a showcase of Keiyaa’s talent, featuring innovative soundscapes that draw comparisons to both classic and contemporary influences. Tracks like “Do Yourself a favour” with its woodblock drums and “I Want My Things!” reminiscent of Klein’s experimental style, highlight her creative versatility. The ’90s R&B vibes of “Negus poem 1 & 2” and the Dilla-like swing of the closer “Keep It Real” further emphasize her ability to blend different genres seamlessly. This eclectic mix of styles and sounds ensures that the album remains fresh and engaging with each listen.
Since its release, “Forever, Ya Girl” has received accolades from major publications such as Pitchfork, Rolling Stone, and The Guardian, all of which included it in their “Best Albums of 2020” lists. The album’s success is a reflection of Keiyaa’s dedication and artistic vision, solidifying her status as a significant force in contemporary R&B. With its reissue on XL Recordings, “Forever, Ya Girl” is set to reach an even wider audience, affirming Keiyaa’s place in the music industry.
