2021 Soul Train Awards: 5 Songs That Remind Us Why We Love Ari Lennox
Since making her commercial debut in 2016 with her EP Pho, while signed under the J. Cole speared Dreamville record label, Ari Lennox has been a huge representative of the soul genre. Following the release of her debut album Shea Butter Baby, Lennox, whose real name is Courtney Shanade Salter, described the project as simply soul, stating that there’s no gimmick.
The Washington D.C. native is set to take the stage at the 2021 Soul Train Awards, but ahead of the big event join us as we take a look back at five songs that remind us why we love the Soul Train Awards performer.
“Shea Butter Baby”
If there was ever a song that showed where the soul genre was heading, Ari’s breakout hit “Shea Butter Baby” was definitely a good starting point..
“BMO”
Also off her 2019 debut project, the soul singer found herself expressing her feelings about a love interest in the uptempo tune which features a classic Galt MacDermot “Space” sample.
“Up Late”
This sultry slow jam is one of many standout tracks on the Dreamville signee’s debut album Shea Butter Baby. The song also features the trap-jazz stylings of Masego.
“Whipped Cream”
Ari copes with the pain of losing a past lover by eating her feelings in the heartbreak track.
“Night Drive”
A laid back tune about taking a late night drive around the city with a former lover--something many of us can relate to. This single was featured on Ari’s 2018 EP Pho.
Watch the 2021 Soul Train Awards on Sunday, November 28 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET and BET Her.