Devon Gilfillian Breathes New Life Into Soul and R&B [NEW ARTIST DISCOVERY]

image

Devon Gilfillian fell in love with Afrobeat at some point, and hasn't stopped showing it since. The funky, R&B-based artist tops drum-heavy tracks with layer upon layer of his raw vocals to create soulful sensations that speak to his life experience. Gilfillian released his self-titled debut EP in 2016, but really took off when he dropped his 2018 single "Troublemaker," which caught the attention of Capitol Records and launched his career into orbit. After touring with an eclectic variety of artists, from Keith Urban, Anderson East and Gladys Knight to The Fray, Devon Gilfillian is fully embracing his own sound and artistry in his forthcoming album.

Gilfillian started 2019 with a trip to Africa for reflection and then played a tour in Scandinavia. If that wasn't enough traveling, he is set to support country duo Brothers Osborne on a tour in April.  

image

Produced by Shawn Everett, who is known for his work with Alabama Shakes and Kacey Musgraves, Gilfillian's latest single, "Get Out and Get It" teases his forthcoming album and motivates listeners to take control of their lives. Gilfillian sings,

"Stop askin' who's gunna light the fire. Start askin' who's gunna take you higher."

Raised in Philadelphia, Gilfillian was privy to the ingredients behind musical ingenuity from a young age due to the successes of his father. A singer and percussionist for R&B outfit Cafe Ole, his father instilled a love of soul, R&B, hip hop and blues that still sits at the core of his son's musical being. Inspired by the greats, Gilfillian gets inspiration from the likes of Jimi Hendrix and Ray Charles as well as 70s-era Nigerian funk and Afro-rock.

image

The music that Gilfillian creates evokes strong emotions, both overwhelmingly comforting and warm in delivery. Everything about his releases is expressive, from his powerful vocals down to his guitar playing, and he can back it all up with impressive live performances.  

Want to see for yourself? Check out his full Audiotree Live performance below.

Related Articles

d4vd and Kali Uchis Pen a Breathtaking Love Letter in "Crashing"

d4vd and Kali Uchis Pen a Breathtaking Love Letter in "Crashing"

March 4, 2025 "Crashing" is an outpouring of desire, an ode to the kind of connection that defies both time and sense.
Author: Jazmin Kylene
pop
R&B
Hope Tala's Debut Album 'Hope Handwritten' Is Everything We Hoped It Would Be

Hope Tala's Debut Album 'Hope Handwritten' Is Everything We Hoped It Would Be

February 28, 2025 'Hope Handwritten' is a beautiful album that is cohesive, mellow, and filled with simple truths.
Author: Daniela Waizel Rule
R&B
Get To Know J.Tajor in 10 Questions or Less

Get To Know J.Tajor in 10 Questions or Less

February 27, 2025 Melbourne-based Filipino R&B artist J Tajor is making waves in the global music scene with his infectious sound and relatable storytelling.
r&b
pop