Zae France

Upholding a grand tradition of sensual classic R&B while keeping it firmly up to date production-wise, Zae France exhibits his skills on singles like “Dusse” (2019), “Leg Day” (2021), and “What It Do” (2023); albums and EPs like 2021’s Pretty Girls NVR Listen and 2023’s Rhythm n Backwoods Szn II; and as a support act for silky-voiced acts like Ne-Yo. Born in North Carolina and raised in Connecticut, France’s attention as a youth weren’t on rhythm & blues: his mother, a gospel singer, raised him in the music of the church, and he was a devoted football player in high school. Attracted to a style of singing whose relevance was a matter of debate among his classmates, France realized he could offer atmosphere and ad-libs with the best of them, and started uploading cover songs online, steadily growing a fan base. His debut release, Rhythm n Backwoods (2019), set the template for France’s work going forward: a mesh of modern and classic ideas - skittering beats paired with languid electric rhythm guitars underscoring his versatile, confident vocals. Tracks “Done Up,” “Dusse,” and “Two Rounds” earned acclaim among followers, and the set’s opening song “ThisVibeAin’tForEveryBody” became a personal mantra he used to describe his influences and approach to singing. A follow-up EP, 2021’s Pretty Girls NVR Listen, featured the alluring ‘90s throwback “Baby,” and a standalone single that same year, the slow jam “Leg Day,” became a viral hit. The vibe was ultimately endorsed by 2000s hit-maker Ne-Yo, who took France under his wing on tour and as a signee to his Compound Entertainment imprint. From that partnership came a deal with Def Jam Records, which released his third EP, Rhythm n Backwoods Szn II, in 2023. It featured the track “What It Do,” a duet with labelmate Fridayy that became a standout of France’s first headlining shows that year. ~ Mike Duquette