Liberia-born, Tennessee-based artist Mon Rovîa began his career making music more adjacent to alternative R&B. But it was after he stripped his songs back to a simple, binary presentation of voice and ukulele, that his music began connecting deeply via livestreams on TikTok. Fans and big time influencers were drawn to his meditative melodies and spiritually inquisitive, often uplifting lyrics. That led to millions of plays and a sold out tour, including a late January show at the Basement East celebrating his new EP, Act 4 – Atonement.

To kick off his campaign as WNXP Nashville Artist of the Month, Mon gave us an eclectic playlist that explores the various genres and cultures that helped create his self-styled Afro Appalachian folk.

“Believe it or not, I’m not an artist that listens to a lot of music. I prefer reading writings of those that came before or contemplating issues that are happening around the world. But when I do feel the spirit and need a lift in my own soul, these are the songs that help me unwind and energize. I hope you may find some gold and get a little peek into what captures my mind lyrically and sonically. Enjoy!”