When you think of indie rock, the first thoughts to come to mind are probably the soft rock sounds of Muse or maybe something indie in the most cliché sense of the word – “Let Her Go” by Passenger for example. Chances are, it’s a genre you don’t immediately associate with black female artists. 

It’s somewhat ironic, given that rock ‘n’ roll’s roots wind back to the early 20th century, a time when blues, ragtime, jazz and gospel music feature at the heart of America’s black communities. Paired with the fact indie music is based around the concept of independent production – a field which welcomes the freedom of diversity – and the lack of black indie and rock talent at the forefront becomes even more surprising.

That’s precisely where we come in. Given the amount of talent that’s lurking above and below the radar, it’s about time someone shone a spotlight on the strong, independent ladies of colour making a splash in the rock and indie scenes. It’s time you discovered the 5 unmissable black females that need to be added to your playlist right now.


1. The Tontons

OK, we admit it, this one’s a bit of a cheat as it’s a band and not specifically a solo artist. What is undeniable, however, is the fact that Asli Omar’s strong, soulful voice has the power to carry the band. The Tontons are a Texas-born four-piece consisting of bassist Tom Nguyen, guitarist Adam Martinez, drummer Justin Martinez and Asli herself. Producing an eclectic rock sound, this foursome have been hanging around the music scene since the heights of 2007. With two EP’s, two studio albums and a whole bunch of awards under their belt, it’s safe to say these guys are going places.

Our Recommendation: Take a listen to “Veida” (above) for a bit more of classic rock edge, or listen to Omar’s soft crooning in “Pony” for something a little more heart wrenching …


2. Tamar- kali

Now here’s a badass if we ever did see one! Tamar-kali, with her gritty voice and fierce attitude, takes us back to the core roots of rock ‘n’ roll. Brooklyn born and bred, Tamar-Kali has supported the likes of Fishbone and OutKast on various tours (did I hear you say ‘Heyyy Yaaaa?) and has shared the stage with big-hitters like Paramore, The Dirtbombs, Earl Greyhound and Cassandra Wilson to name but a few.  She released her debut EP, Geechee Goddess Hardcore Warrior Soul, in 2005 – a heartfelt album about a young black girl struggling with accepting her own beauty and experiences of sexual exploitation.

Our Recommendation: Her studio album, Black Bottom, was released in 2010 and is well worth a listen. She’s been a little quiet on the music front in recent years, so we’re hoping this is just another hiatus before she hits us with a musical bomb we never saw coming…


3. SATE

Rock ‘n’ roll at its most elemental has arrived; ladies and gentlemen, please take a seat. The daughter of Canada’s ‘First Lady of the Blues’, SATE – born Saidah Baba Talibah – certainly has some big shoes to fill. Having released three digital EP’s, her PledgeMusic campaign saw fans voting on their favourite tunes to make up the Red, Black & Blue track listing. The result? An album that holds enough power to amaze fans and critics alike. SATE shows no sign of stopping, as the rocker has recently wrapped up the second part of her Canadian tour – TOUR DE SATE PT DEUX. We sense more ground shaking music on the way…

Our Recommendation: Be sure to check out the fierce track “Warrior” and turn the volume up to full.


4. Andy Allo

Andy Allo and her guitar come as a pair. There’s no doubt about it. The indie artist sticks to the traditional side of the genre, pairing her pop chords with an evocative blend of all things funk, soul, neo-soul and rhythm ‘n’ blues. Having had a fruitful career thus far, her three albums – UnFresh (2009), Superconductor (2012) and Hello (2015) – were all released through PledgeMusic. With career highlights that include her appearance on the Jimmy Kimmel Live! show, or, better still, her collaboration on a cover project with Prince in 2014. 

Our Recommendation: The track “One Step Closer“, from her One Step Closer EP, takes a bit more of a folksy-turn with soulful lyrics, delicate vocals and, of course, Andy’s skilful strumming. Give it a listen and you’ll be sure to fall in love.


5. Lydie La Peste

If a taste for foreign languages isn’t really your thing, you might want to steer clear of this last offering – however you’d definately be missing out on a dose of brilliance. Emerging French indie artist Lydie La Peste has been taking France by storm. Slowly and tentatively making her way across the channel, she’s subsequently been attempting to warm the prudish hearts of the British. Her music videos are just as key as her sweet vocals, increasingly becoming a means of showcasing her creativity.

Our Recommendation: Take a look at Jackadit if you want to see La Peste at the height of her creative visual expression. Alternatively, if you just want something a little lighter and romantic, PS I Love You MIX 1 is the latest release, which features her unbelievably sweet voice against a gentle piano accompaniment.