There’s a fresh crop of female R&B singers that are slowly reclaiming the ingenuity of the timeless genre. The class of redemption includes the likes of H.E.R., Summer Walker, Kaash Paige, Jhene Aiko, Jazmine Sullivan, Mariah the Scientist, Teyana Taylor, and Queen Naija, to name a few, and to be quite frank they’ve done their duty to uphold the tradition of love songs in their own unique ways. Yet, the options are still limited pickings, so whenever a new artist that has the “IT” factor emerges, it’s only more the reason to embrace and celebrate.
Hence the arrival of the very talented Kentucky artist Marzz. Out of nowhere, the bandana wearing, marble colored eyes singer disrupted the hemisphere of R&B with her latest piece of art, Love Letterz (Deluxe), her first full-length album.
The 13-track project, which dropped April 9th, follows a year of building a solid foundation on strong singles that make up her debut EP, Love Letterz. The EP consisted of six songs, including “So Frequently,” “Cleopatra,” “Love Letter,” “Wizard,” “Countless Times,” and “Done Witcha,” all of which are featured on the Deluxe project. Marzz adds an additional seven sultry tracks.
For 38 minutes straight, Marzz delivers a vocal ability usually preserved for veterans in the music industry. She so effortlessly blends a nostalgic ’90s style of traditional rhythm and blues with the contemporary melodic sound of today. Even more refreshing, not one song is skippable on Love Letterz (Deluxe).
Marzz has been cosigned by one of the best producers in the industry, Timbaland, who discovered the Louisville, Kentucky gem nearly two years ago. It is well-known that Timbaland has an ear for good R&B, helping the careers of the legend Aaliyah and reigning hip hop pioneer Missy Elliott. So when he says someone is a star, it’s worth the listen.
Others in the industry recognized her talent, as well. It wouldn’t be too long before Marzz signed to the Los Angeles-based label Keep Cool, founded by Tunji Balogun, Courtney Stewart, and Jared Sherman. The label has a joint venture deal with RCA Records and has a formidable roster of up-and-coming acts, such as Normani, VanJess, Freddie Gibbs and Madlib, and Lucky Daye.
Marzz is certainly a standout as she stands 10 toes down on the philosophy of being authentically vulnerable in a world ridden with ridicule. The “3rd Eye View” singer wants fans to take some deep meaning away from her album.
“Honestly knowing that you’re free of judgment of any kind and it’s okay to be hurt and in love at the same time while setting personal boundaries,” Marzz shared in an Instagram post reflecting on Love Letterz (Deluxe). “Putting yourself first while not allowing anyone to play with your heart.”
To date, Marzz has released five official music videos to complement the album. Her most recent release is the genre-blending “FYM,” where Marzz showcases her rapping skills against the backdrop of a dreamy and colorful set design. The visual is directed by MOM and executive produced by Mariah Morgenstern.
Clearly, Marzz is what the galaxy has been missing, but now that she has arrived, perhaps love in music will too.
Love Letterz (Deluxe) is available now on Apple Music, YouTube, and across music streaming platforms.
