No genre can bind Black creativity and influence.

From blues to rock, the influence of Black artistry is found in nearly every music genre. Tina Bell’s innovation in the ‘80s rock band Bam Bam made waves in Seattle, despite her being the only Black artist in her band and having largely white audiences.

The band broke up because of racial tensions, according to an article in Black Arts Histories. The drummer, Matt Cameron, later gained recognition as a member of Soundgarden and Pearl Jam. But Bell’s vocals inspired generations of rock after her; she has been coined the “Godmother of Grunge.”

Black artists were always present and vocal at the heart of punk philosophy, with its focus on anti-establishment and battling systemic frameworks in U.S. society. The Black Panthers aligned with this ethos, famously donning black leather jackets to make their presence known. While battling systemic oppression, they defined drive and passion within alternative communities.

Part of supporting Black art includes honoring not only experimentation outside of the norms, but also artistry that thrives even in front of small audiences. These are the artists for whom your support can directly impact, and who can directly impact you.

Test your headphones’ range with these five East Coast micro-musicians.

To learn more about how University of Maryland students showcase Black alternative culture on campus, click here.

earf2liv

Suggested song: “Cheddar”

The Atlanta-based artist embodies the alternative hip-hop niche, with earwormish lyrics and a classically cohesive cadence. Rooted in urban life, their music experiments with electronic and cosmic production. A golden find for a hype playlist, hardcore rapping streamlines over an atmospheric, addictive beat.

RenRiot

Suggested song: “Anatomy of a Flower”

This Washington, D.C. band fills local venues with their soft-grunge, angsty riffs. The Black queer trio started as a personal project, but later gained momentum with their stage presence and fearless activism. Featuring yearning melodic vocals,  “Anatomy of a Flower” is a  captivating and perfectly-emo must-listen.

Ari Voxx

Suggested song: “Astronauta”

Washington, D.C.’s, self-proclaimed “Dreamy Pop Princess” is a Black, queer, female artist who explores themes of mental health through 80s and 90s-inspired pop production. Though typically solo, Voxx periodically partners with her band, The Sad Lads, to create a kaleidoscopic soundscape. “Astronauta” is an eclectic ballad that will make you feel as if you’re listening among the stars with its melancholic lyrics.

MonaVeli

Suggested song: “HERO”

With vulnerable and vibrant lyricism, this indie artist from Massachusetts blends experimental hip-hop and R&B. Her bold fashion shines neon in her futuristic visuals, making her an artist to be both heard and seen. In “HERO,” MonaVeli’s daring lyrics are smooth over a bouncy beat — let this be your new self-affirmation anthem.

iVANA

Suggested song: “Regulate”

Based in New York City, this musician with bright red hair calls themself your “local hot dad.”From playing hole-in-the-wall venues in the city to commissioning other small artists for cartoonish cover art, iVANA defines the modern indie artist. A tug of war between its distorted vocals and cozy instrumentation, this song is perfect for when you’re feeling a bit discombobulated.