From soul and protest to mixtape and stage, two Atlanta artists turn rhythm into reflection in this week’s WABE Arts.
This week’s WABE Arts spotlights two local voices using their craft to connect culture, community and change. Soul frontwoman Ruby Velle channels the city’s activist roots in a new single urging civic engagement, while actor and musician Brian Jordan Jr. explores identity and independence through his latest musical project. Both approach storytelling as an act of participation — whether in democracy or in redefining how Southern artists shape the sound of today.
Ruby Velle & The Soulphonics step up for democracy
Ruby Velle & The Soulphonics have helped define Atlanta’s modern soul scene, blending classic rhythm-and-blues influences with socially conscious lyrics. Their new single, “Step Right Up,” continues that tradition, arriving just days before Election Day 2025 as a rallying cry for courage and collective action.
“It’s a call to action for joy,” Velle said in an interview with WABE Arts. “We’ve clearly seen that democracy as it’s standing right now is in peril… but we can do something about it.”
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