By Fallon Kim, Senior Correspondent
As 2025 unfolds, a new name is making waves in the music industry: Kendra Royce. The 21-year-old singer-songwriter from Atlanta has emerged as a fresh and compelling talent in the world of soul, jazz, and indie-pop. With a hauntingly beautiful voice and an uncanny ability to craft deeply personal lyrics, Royce is poised to become one of the biggest breakout stars of the year.
A Journey to Stardom
Kendra Royce’s musical journey began long before she stepped into the spotlight. Raised in an environment that embraced both gospel and R&B, Royce was immersed in music from an early age. Her parents, who have strong roots in the Atlanta music scene, introduced her to a diverse range of genres, from traditional gospel to contemporary R&B, sparking a love for music that would eventually shape her unique sound.
“I grew up listening to a lot of gospel and R&B, but I was always drawn to jazz and soul,” Royce shares. “That mixture of styles really influenced the music I make today. It’s about blending emotions and sounds that feel real to me.”
Royce initially gained recognition in the online music community through YouTube, where her raw, unfiltered covers of classic songs from artists like Amy Winehouse and Joni Mitchell quickly garnered attention. Her vocal prowess and emotional delivery caught the ears of music lovers and industry insiders alike. However, it was her debut single, “Tides,” released in 2024, that truly launched her career into the mainstream.
The song, which reflects themes of self-discovery and the turbulence of navigating love and loss, was a critical hit. It was described as a perfect blend of soul and indie-pop, showcasing Royce’s ability to craft deeply emotional lyrics while maintaining a mainstream appeal.
“I wanted Tides to be an honest reflection of my life,” she says. “Everyone goes through moments where they feel pulled in different directions, and I wanted the song to capture that emotional struggle.”
The Sound of Kendra Royce
What sets Royce apart from her contemporaries is her ability to seamlessly blend various genres into a cohesive and captivating sound. Her music draws from a rich history of soul and jazz but has a contemporary twist that resonates with younger audiences. Royce’s vocal style, which often mirrors the emotive phrasing of legendary artists like Winehouse, is both powerful and haunting, effortlessly drawing listeners in with each note.
Her lyrics, often deeply personal and introspective, are another key aspect of her artistry. Royce describes her music as a mirror of her experiences, from navigating relationships to grappling with self-identity.
“My songs are my diary,” she explains. “I’ve always been someone who expresses myself through music. Writing is therapeutic for me. I hope my songs resonate with people who have gone through similar things.”
Royce’s debut EP, set to drop this summer, promises to showcase her diverse influences and her growth as an artist. The early tracks offer a perfect blend of old-school soul with a fresh, modern edge. From upbeat tunes with jazzy undertones to more stripped-down ballads that highlight her raw vocal talent, the EP is sure to leave fans eagerly anticipating what’s next.
What’s Next for Royce?
Kendra Royce’s rise in the music world shows no signs of slowing down. Having already signed with a prominent indie label, she is preparing for the release of her debut EP, a project that promises to be as much a personal statement as it is a musical breakthrough.
“This EP is a collection of songs that represent my journey,” she says. “It’s been an emotional process, but I’m so excited for everyone to hear it. It’s me, 100%.”
With a growing fanbase and an increasing number of performances lined up across the country, Royce is steadily building momentum in 2025. As her fanbase continues to grow, it’s clear that this Atlanta-based artist is one to watch.
As she heads into the next phase of her career, Kendra Royce is also beginning to make her mark in the live music scene. She has several high-profile shows lined up for the year, including appearances at major music festivals and intimate venue performances, where she plans to showcase her full range of musical talents.
Her blend of raw vulnerability and captivating sound has already made Royce a favorite among critics, and her future in music seems brighter than ever. With her debut EP on the horizon and an exciting year ahead, Kendra Royce is poised to take her place as one of the most exciting and unique voices of 2025.
As she continues to connect with fans through her music and personal storytelling, it’s safe to say that Kendra Royce is not just the next breakout star — she’s the future of soul-infused indie pop.
