Not every song begins with the confidence to share it. For Toronto soul artist Tara Van, keeping music private for years preceded a decision to work with friends and confidants. "Miles On It" makes those relationships part of its creative identity. The four-track EP addresses love, loss and growth, but its guiding idea is practical. Staying hopeful need not mean doing everything yourself. Van's interests reach through...

Obi Alfred is bringing old R&B to a new audience and serving as a torchbearer for the genre. Born in New Jersey and bred in Texas, the Nigerian-American’s unique approach pays respect to the titans of the genre while pushing into daring, current terrain. Now, with the most captivating songs of his early career, Obi is establishing himself as one of the most significant emerging talents...