Breaking: Solange
Who: Solange, the 22-year-old sister of Beyonce who is ready to make a name for herself with her second album Sol-Angel and the Hadley St. Dreams.
Sounds Like: Solange brings an electronica-tinged update on classic soul and Motown to her Sol-Angel, thanks in part to producers like Mark Ronson and Pharrell. Her hit single “I Decided” is a synthesis of what would have happened if the Supremes hung out with Gnarls Barkley.
Vital Stats:
• Solange is definitely the hipster of the Knowles clan, naming Sia and Justice as her current faves. Plus, she samples Boards of Canada on Sol-Angel‘s “This Bird.” “It’s so backward,” Solange says. “I’m playing Letterman, Kimmel and TRL, but I just can’t wait till I get to play with MGMT!”
• After her first solo album flopped, Solange got married, had a baby and moved to Idaho. While living the domesticated life, Solange still penned songs for Destiny’s Child and her older sister. After her marriage ended last year, Solange returned to her native Houston to resume her singing career.
• Next up for Solange, besides stepping out of Beyonce’s shadow: She’s prepping a mixtape that she’ll release for free online. “I sample Jay-Z, Nas and Kanye,” she says. “I’m calling it I Can’t Get Clearance.” You’d think being Jay-Z’s sister-in-law would entitle her to use “Roc Boys.”
Hear It Now: Solange’s Sol-Angel and the Hadley St. Dreams is in stores now. In the meantime, click above to see the video for “I Decided.”