If you just can't get enough of that classic, 1960s Motown sound, you've got something in common with Jalen Ngonda. The contemporary soul musician draws heavily on the genre's rich history and adds his personal twist to it.
With a keen ear and a totally singular singing voice, soul enthusiasts are in for a treat on Tuesday, 12 May.
"Streaming is a hell of a beast!" So multifaceted Jalen Ngonda, who found the time to chat with Tom about modern audiences, algorithms, and cheeseburgers.
His family and church community in Maryland raised the funds for him to attend the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts, having already proved himself as a talented young musician obsessed with his father's collection of Motown vinyls.
But it wasn't long before he received offers from multiple record labels. After signing with Daptone Records, Jalen N'Gonda (now stylising his surname as Ngonda) went on to release his debut studio album, Come Around and Love Me, to critical acclaim and commercial success in 2023. Its follow up, Doctrine of Love, is set to be released on June 5th.
Ngonda has since made a name for himself as a member of the soul revival vanguard. Alongside acts like MT Jones, Sault, and Thee Sacred Souls, he counts as one of the genre's strongest voices – both figuratively and literally.
For the intrigued and long-time adorers, RTL Today Radio are giving away two tickets to see Jalen Ngonda live at den Atelier on Tuesday, 12 May.
To compete, simply answer the following question:
What is the name of Jalen Ngonda's upcoming album, set to release on 5 June?
Send your answer to +352 621 52 5000 on Whatsapp and include your full name and email address for a chance to win!
