Billboard awarded GELO, Ravyn Lenae and Odeal as Rookies of the Year and named Leon Thomas the Breakthrough Artist of the Year for Billboard‘s 2025 R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players. We’re breaking down how these artists represent the future of Black music. Billboard staffers share why they believe each singer is transforming their respective genre, how their hits—“Mutt,” “Love Me Not” and “Tweaker”—resonated with fans, and more!

Carl Lamarre:

Billboard is always about chart success, but not only to have a cultural impact and see the buzz and how they’re resonating, not just online, but the streets as well. The kids are talking about you. Most likely we’re gonna cover y’all and see what’s up.

Fan 1:

Tonight, I’m most excited to see Leon Thomas and Odeal.

Fan 2:

Gag it, Odeal. What? Ravyn Len

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