Soul crooner Mayer Hawthorne has quickly become a heavy contender among the newest group of artists looking to resuscitate R&B. Taking cues from Curtis Mayfield, Al Green and others, Hawthorne's raw and expressive style has garnered praise from a slew of household hip-hop superstars, including Kanye West and Snoop Dogg. The Motown- and Stax-inspired artist also blends hip-hop elements into his musical approach, citing artists J Dilla and Santogold as inspiration.
Hawthorne released his debut LP, A Strange Arrangement, in 2009. Recently signed to Universal Republic, the 32-year-old crooner will release his sophomore album How Do You Do later this year.
Suggested Reading
Previous recommendation: 'Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty.'
Got ideas for The Root Recommends? Send them to [email protected].
Straight From 
Sign up for our free daily newsletter.