If you haven’t been paying attention to Chxrry, now might be the time to start. As the first female artist signed to The Weeknd’s XO Records, Chxrry is making waves by bringing a fresh, Toronto-infused sound to the R&B scene. With a touch of sultry allure and fierce empowerment, she’s shaping up to be one of the most compelling voices in contemporary music.

Chxrry, whose debut single “The Falls” landed in 2022, has taken significant strides in carving out her niche. This track marked her entry into the music scene, carrying themes of spontaneous decisions and the regret that follows—elements that resonate deeply with many listeners. Her candid storytelling and relatable lyrics immediately established her as someone to watch, and she hasn’t disappointed since.

Her journey with XO Records began with her debut EP, The Other Side. Showcasing tracks like “Call Me” and “Wasteland,” the EP explores personal themes of identity and emotional turmoil woven through smooth beats and haunting melodies. With significant support from notable artists like Offset and Vory in her sophomore EP Siren, Chxrry’s sound expanded, offering a complex array of emotional depth and sonic sophistication.

Chxrry’s collaborations have also been a testament to her versatility. “Favorite Girl,” featuring Offset, explores vulnerability with narratives that tread the line between escapism and reality. With her roots firmly planted in Toronto’s vibrant music scene, she also nods to iconic locales, like Magic City, adding a layer of cultural relevance to her tracks. Offset’s guest verse further amplifies the track, making it a standout piece.

Among her standout singles is “Main Character,” a track that screams empowerment. With its anthem-like quality, it reflects the self-assured energy many R&B artists strive to reach. Accompanied by a vibrant music video directed by Mowalola, the single serves as both a personal statement and a cultural commentary, earning nods from major figures like Chlöe and Kylie Jenner.

A common thread in Chxrry’s music is candidness. In “The Other Side,” she introspectively dissects a past relationship, admitting to heartbreak while showing resolve. This theme persists in “Granted,” where she thanks an ex for inadvertently inspiring her art, transforming the bitterness into a compelling artistic output.

Chxrry’s ability to merge personal narratives with broader cultural elements is perhaps best exemplified in tracks like “Wasteland.” Here, she salutes Toronto women while simultaneously critiquing the ‘wastemen’ they might encounter. These multidimensional tracks not only appeal to a diverse audience but also challenge stereotypes in the music industry.

Her catalog keeps expanding, with tracks like “Worlds Away” tackling long-distance relationships, and “Never Had This” featuring Vory, contrasting intimate moments with grand love gestures. All these songs encapsulate not just her growth as an artist but also her versatility and willingness to push R&B into new territories.

While Chxrry’s career is still unfolding, her artistry has already made considerable impacts. Her music video aesthetics, collaborative ventures, and deep-rooted R&B influences place her in the lineage of artists like Jhene Aiko and SZA, who continue to shape the genre.

In anticipating her future releases, Chxrry stands as a beacon of change for XO Records and R&B at large. Her unique Toronto edge breathes new life into the label, guaranteeing that with Chxrry around, the genre’s future is indeed in good hands.