London artist Cherri V recently released her new EP, Brown Eyed Soul Vol. 1, which spanned eight gorgeous tracks, all blending R&B and soul. Since the release of her EP, she’s garnered support from a number of influential platforms including The Beat London, Clash Music, The 405, Earmilk and received airplay on BBC 1Xtra, Capital Xtra and more.
Now, Cherri V has shared some of the tracks which have inspired her along the way. Her playlist features a fusion of old and new picking out some of the 90s/00s R&B anthems as well as tipping us on who we should be looking out for.
Ultimate guilty pleasure…
Spice Girls – ‘Spice up your life‘
“For nostalgia and the pop music lover inside me!“
Best new track you’ve heard in the last few months…
Rukhasana Merrise – ‘Die In Vain‘
“I relate to this record so much… it makes me think of the pressures of the music industry, society, and the general pressure I feel as a musician to “keeping up with the wave”. While listening I had thoughts of time wasted chasing my dreams while missing out on the sheer joys of everyday life.“
A song from your favourite recently discovered band/artist…
Thirdstory – ‘Still In Love‘
“A friend recently suggested I listen to Thirdstory. I could NOT stop listening to ‘Still in love’ taken from their album ‘Cold Heart’. I feel like this record has the right balance of soul and pop with beautiful harmonies.“
A song you wish you wrote…
Sisqo – ‘Thong Song‘
“Who would have thought you could have a hit record from repeating the same verse three times. Simple genius.“
A track from the best band/artist to come out of your hometown (Cherri V not included)…
Lianne La Havas – ‘Tease Me‘
“Lianne La Havas‘ ‘Tease Me’ taken from her debut album, Is your love big enough. She’s originally a South Londoner. I had her first album on repeat, love her tone and songs…“
If you were stuck in a lift, which music would you choose to keep you company? Remember it’s on repeat.
Jhene Aiko – Sailing Souls
“I’d have Jhene Aiko album/EP, Sailing Souls. I have so many fond memories attached to this album and I’m sure it would get me through…“
You are asked to star in a reality TV show that documents your life. What’s the theme tune?
Janelle Monae – ‘I like it‘
“I think this song describes me so well. When I heard it for the first time I remember thinking “Hayyyyyy she’s talking about me!”
The track of your own that you’re the most proud of…
Cherri V – ‘Leave Me Be‘
“I wrote this song with no filter and it has reached the hearts of many… I’ve even been told it’s very relatable, heartfelt and still has a bop. Listening back to it I honestly felt like for the first time in a long time I had displayed growth as a songwriter.”



