Our favorite Blasian jams for Black History Month
In honor of Black History Month, we're dedicating this month's playlist to the Black and Asian artists who've shaken up the music industry
From left, cover art for “Didn’t Break It Enough” by Griff, “LOVE” by Jhené Aiko, and “Damage” by H.E.R.
Photo illustration by Ryan Quan
Words by Anjana Pawa
JoySauce Radio: Consider JoySauce Radio our own personal song recommendations—from the tunes and videos our writers love to DJ-produced mixes of dance floor bangers—all from Asian and Pacific Islander artists around the world.
Happy Black History Month! This February, we’re celebrating artists who come from two identities with deeply rich histories. We’re shining a light on the Black and Asian artists who’ve been breaking boundaries and blending sounds in ways that feel almost effortless, whether it’s through jazz and hip-hop, or R&B and experimental sounds. These artists, from young rising stars like Griff, to those who have been around for decades like Ne-Yo, have spent their careers blending influences, genres, and personal histories to create something entirely their own.
“Didn’t Break It Enough” by Griff
This tune from JoySauce Radio alum, Griff, is one of her earliest tracks. The song is a heartfelt anthem about the lingering pain of a breakup—the kind that doesn’t shatter you, but leaves cracks that are visible long after. The British singer-songwriter is of Jamaican and Chinese descent and has been a rising star in pop for the last few years. She’s even opened for the likes of Sabrina Carpenter and Taylor Swift!
“LOVE” by Jhené Aiko
Jhené Aiko is known for her ethereal sound and deep and introspective songwriting. The mixed race singer-songwriter, who has a half Japanese mother, blends elements of neo-soul, hip-hop, and alternative R&B to create a unique sound. “LOVE” incorporates all those to create a dreamy tune, full of great energy.
“So Sick” by Ne-Yo
This song has been on everyone’s playlist for at least a decade. A true classic, “So Sick” is the ultimate breakup anthem—melancholic but incredibly catchy. Ne-Yo is an R&B icon who really helped define the sound of 2000s R&B. Though you may know him from his songs, you may not have known that the artist’s mother is half Chinese.
“Damage” by H.E.R.
H.E.R., whose real name is Gabriella Wilson, is an R&B powerhouse. The artist, who is of Black and Filipino descent, has a soulful voice and writes deeply personal lyrics. “Damage” is a slow-burning, sultry track that is vulnerable and real. Much like H.E.R., this song is raw and real, but still effortlessly cool.
“Bubblin” by Anderson .Paak
Anderson .Paak is a genre-blending icon. With influences ranging from soul to hip-hop to jazz, he’s built a career on mixing and matching intricate soundscapes. The Black and Korean American musician is a force to be reckoned with. “Bubblin” is a perfect example of his genius featuring an explosion of horns, rapid-fire lyrical verses, and lots of charismatic energy.
Published on February 25, 2025
Words by Anjana Pawa
Anjana Pawa is a Brooklyn-based culture reporter who regularly covers music, entertainment and beauty. You can find her on Twitter at @apawawrites.
Art by Ryan Quan
Ryan Quan is the Social Media Editor for JoySauce. This queer, half-Chinese, half-Filipino writer and graphic designer loves everything related to music, creative nonfiction, and art. Based in Brooklyn, he spends most of his time dancing to hyperpop and accidentally falling asleep on the subway. Follow him on Instagram at @ryanquans.