Enigmatic R&B singer-songwriter H.E.R. is undeniably killing it, albeit it in the most mysterious of ways. Since emerging in late 2016 with the silky smooth E.P. H.E.R Volume 1, she has established herself as one of the most captivating yet untraceable artists around, refusing to disclose her identity and concealing her face in all publicity stills. Her seductive brand of trap-influenced woozy R&B has garnered critical acclaim, amassing hundreds of millions of streams and likely providing the soundtrack for many listener’s intimate evenings. Lyrically, her work calls to mind Lauryn Hill style confessionals, exploring themes of identity, womanhood, and sexuality, H.E.R. carefully cultivated anonymity somehow imbuing her music with a raw, vulnerable relatability. Connecting with women is a core focus for H.E.R., and through revealing her truths she aims to show them that they are not alone in their emotional experiences, however messy and conflicted they may feel internally.
Following her debut Australian tour, we chat to H.E.R. and seven local creatives achieving greatness in their respective fields. We spoke with each of them about the advice they’d give their younger selves, and the music that has shaped them into the women they are today.
Listen to our Spotify playlist curated by H.E.R and friends here.