5 Songs I Love w/ Shelana Azora

Following the release of her latest single (with Richandell), "Can't Trust", Flex caught up with Shelana Azora to find out what inspires her soulful blend of R&B, hip-hop and contemporary storytelling. Known for balancing smooth vocals with confident lyricism, the East London artist creates music rooted in honesty, resilience and self-discovery, turning personal experiences into relatable anthems. If you enjoy Shelana's picks, be sure to check out "Can't Trust" at the end of the article.

Alicia Keys - If I Ain’t Got You

Alicia Keys had to be top of my list because I always say that this woman taught me how to sing. I literally discovered that I could sing when listening to “If I Ain’t Got You” on the radio one Saturday afternoon in 2004. 9-year-old me fell in love with Alicia Keys and discovered my voice within. This song will forever be dear to my heart because of its sheer beauty, emotion, piano melodies, lyrics. What a classic.

J Cole - No Role Modelz

I absolutely love J Cole and this song is special! If you’re a Hip-Hop lover, this is a piece of art for me. The storytelling, the melodic rap, switches in flow - insane. J Cole’s ‘2014 Forest Hills Drive’ marks an era for me. I was an English student at UCL, with big dreams and the hope of a 20-year-old. It was the soundtrack to my university life, marking my independence, and reminding me that I one day would be a “role model” to the next generation. J Cole is one of my favourite rappers because he’s just real. A real storyteller, clever wordplay and cadence, and “No Role Modelz” showcases that perfectly.

Ama - Be For Real

Ama had to go on my list because I’m honestly obsessed with this girl. Her voice is sultry, smooth and so honeyed. Her lyrics are so relatable that sometimes I feel like she’s in my brain. As a British singer-songwriter, she inspires me to step into my most authentic self. Her music blends that old-skool R&B sound that I love. On. Repeat.

Fabolous ft. Tamia - So Into You

It only makes sense to add a 00s R&B classic on the list because I live in this era everyday. In fact, I don’t think I ever grew out of 90s & 00s R&B. This song is just pure nostalgia, and takes me back to MTV Base days. Growing up as a 90s baby is a badge of honour I will forever wear because what a time to be alive! Fabolous’ bouncy verses, and Tamia’s voice is a match made in heaven.

The Script - Man Who Can’t Be Moved

This song reminds me of my teenage days and I love the soulful pop-rock vibes in this song. The music video is timeless, and The Script remains one of my favourite bands ever. Danny O'Donoghue’s voice is one of my favourite voices, and I could listen to this song over and over again. This is my go-to karaoke song, and the song you will catch me singing at live gigs because it really is a crowd-pleaser. You will definitely catch me screaming this song on long car-drives with my friends because it’s just that good.

Listen to "Can't Trust"