Agile's New Playlist:
Modern R&B and the Power of Inclusion

Published on August 18, 2023
Written by, Tana Marshall

As I write this with Ella Mai's 'Gut Feeling' on full blast -- allow me to draw a connection that may sound a little unconventional at first, but trust me, it's gonna hit… like hit. Imagine the smooth, hypnotic tunes of today's leading female R&B artists and the innovative, adaptable world of Agile and DE&I. You're probably wondering, "Sis, how do they even relate?" Well, keep reading, and I'll break it down for you.

Authentic Storytelling & Vulnerability

When SZA croons about love, loss, or self-reflection, what resonates most isn’t just the heavenly melodies; it’s her raw authenticity. In the Agile world, the heart of any transformation is transparency and vulnerability. Just like our favorite R&B queens bare their souls, steams must too come together, admitting what they don’t know, embracing challenges, and continually growing. That's real DEI—creating spaces where people can bring their full selves to the table, no pretense.

Adaptation & Evolution

Remember when Summer Walker first burst onto the scene, captivating us with her evocative sound? Since then, her artistry has evolved, mirroring her life's journey. Similarly, Agile is all about adaptation, responding to change instead of sticking to a rigid plan. And ain't that the essence of DEI? Adapting to diverse voices and perspectives, recognizing that change is the only constant.

Collaboration is Key

Jhené Aiko's tracks often feature dope collabs, and each artist brings a unique flavor, creating a richer soundscape. Likewise, Agile emphasizes collaborative effort—multiple voices, skills, and perspectives converge to solve complex problems. The power of diversity becomes evident. DEI is not just about representation but ensuring everyone has a meaningful seat at the table, contributing to that beautiful symphony.

Continuous Feedback & Growth

Teyana Taylor's more recent albums? Straight fire! But her growth wasn’t overnight. Feedback from fans and critics alike shaped her sound and style. Agile is similarly obsessed with feedback—retrospectives, sprint reviews, and continuous improvement. In our journey towards greater DEI, feedback is gold. It allows us to identify blind spots, make meaningful changes, and continuously evolve in our inclusivity efforts.

Wrapping it up... Stay with Me

Now, I’m not saying you should break into song during your next scrum meeting (though, how lit would that be?). What I am suggesting, though, is that there's a rhythm and flow to both the world of female R&B and agile practices—each echoing themes of authenticity, adaptation, collaboration, and growth.

So, the next time you're vibing to the sultry sounds of HER or bopping to the ethereal voice of Kehlani, remember: the principles guiding these artists are the same ones that can make our professional spaces more adaptive, inclusive, and harmonious.

#Agile #DEI #RnBVibes #ProfessionalHarmonies