From Behind the Scenes to Center Stage: ROE's Journey as an Indie Artist and the Release of *Oakwood*
- Tammy Reese
- Jun 17
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 18
By Tammy Reese
ROE is making waves in the R&B scene as a powerful indie artist and Grammy-winning vocalist. Her highly anticipated EP, Oakwood, embodies a soulful exploration of identity, love, and empowerment and draws deeply from her roots in Venice, California. This neighborhood, rich in Black culture and creative history, serves as the foundation for her music and personal journey. The title Oakwood symbolizes the contrasts present in her life — light and dark, past and future — reflecting her evolution from celebrated hitmaker to independent artist.
ROE has always had music in her veins. Her rich, emotive vocal tone and masterful songwriting have earned her recognition in the industry, penning hits for icons like Mary J. Blige, Usher, and Megan Thee Stallion. In 2020, she began carving out her own path with her debut single “I Like.” This infectious track not only earned her a spot on Billboard’s Most Added R&B Song Radio Chart but also amassed over 10 million streams, setting the stage for her solo journey. ROE’s trajectory has been marked by significant milestones, including a standout performance at ASCAP’s 2020 Summer Showcase and the heartwarming story of a five-year-old ROE singing Kirk Franklin’s “Stomp.” This joyful spirit shines through in her music, marrying the vocal agility reminiscent of legends like Mariah Carey with sleek modern production inspired by the LA music scene.
ROE’s songwriting catalog is impressive, featuring hits like “Lick” by Shenseea ft. Megan Thee Stallion, “H.E.R” by Megan Thee Stallion, “80/20” by Chloe & Halle, “Doing Too Much” by Kash Doll, and “Papers” by Usher. Her versatility extends beyond songwriting for artists; she has contributed to major television shows like Empire and Star, and her collaboration with Sachi on “Sparking My Fire” was featured on NBC’s World of Dance. This ability to seamlessly shift between genres while maintaining her R&B essence showcases her artistry and depth.
With Oakwood, ROE reclaims her narrative as an indie artist with major roots, redefining what it means to be an independent musician in today’s landscape. This EP is not just about her music; it’s a reflection of her journey, struggles, and triumphs. ROE’s undeniable voice, poetic lyrics, and deep cultural roots set Oakwood apart as a defining moment in her evolution. As she continues to make her mark, she invites listeners to embrace their identities, love fiercely, and empower one another through the universal language of music.
As the release of Oakwood approaches, anticipation builds for what ROE will bring to the R&B scene. With her rich history as a songwriter and her newfound identity as a solo artist, she is ready to take center stage. ROE’s moment is now, and we can’t wait to witness the magic of her journey unfold. Her authenticity and creativity inspire others to follow their dreams and embrace their true selves, making Oakwood just the beginning of ROE’s remarkable story.
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