Artists You Should Know: Adrian Marcel
Adrian Marcel is the soulful voice you didn’t know you needed, blending old-school R&B vibes with modern storytelling straight out of East Oakland.
Every now and then, an artist comes along who feels like they should already be a household name. Adrian Marcel is one of those artists. If you’ve been sleeping on this Oakland-born singer, it’s time to wake up and add him to your playlists ASAP. Marcel has been blessing us with soulful R&B vibes for years, and trust me—you don’t want to miss what he’s bringing to the table.
From Oakland to the World
Adrian Marcel’s journey began long before he hit the mainstream. A protégé of Raphael Saadiq, another Oakland icon, Marcel caught ears with his ability to channel old-school soul while staying modern and relatable. His breakout single, “2AM” featuring Sage The Gemini, wasn’t just a catchy track—it was an instant classic that followed you everywhere whether it was your morning commute or a night out. The song dominated airwaves in 2014, earning Marcel a spot on countless playlists and making it clear he wasn’t just another passing name in R&B.
Even with the success of “2AM,” he made a conscious choice not to let the hype define him. Instead, he focused on crafting music that reflected his roots, his story, and his vision for what R&B could be. This balance of authenticity and ambition has been a driving force in his career.
A Voice That Feels Like Home
What sets Adrian Marcel apart from the crowd is his storytelling. Every song feels like a chapter in his life, written with raw honesty and delivered with passion. His voice is buttery smooth yet packed with emotion - a perfect balance only few master.
Marcel doesn’t shy away from vulnerability, exploring themes of love, heartbreak, and resilience. Tracks like “Waiting”, “New Nguz”, and “#1 Fan” showcase his ability to capture complex emotions and turn them into melodies that stick with you long after the music stops.
Marcel’s sound isn’t just about smooth vocals and catchy hooks; it’s about creating an experience. His music invites you to feel deeply, whether you’re reminiscing on a past love or finding comfort in his anthems of self-discovery.
The Underrated Star of Modern R&B
In an era where R&B often struggles to maintain its identity due to genre-blending, Adrian Marcel preserves its essence. His work is a refreshing reminder of what R&B can—and should—be: soulful, genuine, and unapologetically emotional. While his talent is undeniable, Marcel has had to navigate the challenges of being an independent artist in an industry that often prioritizes viral moments over long-term artistry.
This hasn’t stopped him. Adrian has built a dedicated fan base by staying true to his sound and consistently delivering high-quality music that speaks to the lives of his audience. Each of his projects are proof of his commitment to growth and evolution as an artist. Whether experimenting with new sounds or diving deeper into his roots, Marcel approaches every album with the same level of care and creativity.
What Adrian Marcel Means for the Future of R&B
Adrian Marcel’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion. He’s more than just an artist; he’s a symbol of what it means to stay true to yourself in an ever-changing industry. His music isn’t just something to listen to—it’s something to feel, connect with, and live through.
Marcel’s latest album RNBAY SZN dropped this past July and has R&B fans singing his praises with standout tracks including “Lovin Me” and the Jane Handcock assisted “So Good.”
As he continues to push boundaries and refine his craft, Adrian Marcel is proving the best music doesn’t always come with the loudest hype. Sometimes, it’s the quiet storm that leaves the most lasting impact.
Adrian Marcel is proof good music doesn’t need to scream for attention; it resonates, lingers, and grows with time. Whether you’ve been rocking with him since “2AM” or are just discovering his catalog (we’ve linked all his projects below starting with the most recent), one thing is clear: Marcel is an artist you should know.