Artist to Watch Out For in 2025 – Rene Bonet

In the ever-evolving world of R&B and hip-hop, few artists embody the grit, soul, and authenticity of Rene Bonet. Hailing from Leesburg, Virginia, and now a staple in Atlanta’s vibrant music scene, Bonet is poised to make 2025 her breakout year.

Rene Bonet’s story is one of perseverance and passion. Born Rikita Rene Lincoln, she grew up in the small, politically charged town of Leesburg, Virginia, just outside Washington, D.C.

As a teenager, poetry became her refuge, a creative outlet to navigate the challenges of a conservative environment that often felt stifling for a young, ambitious artist.

Those early writings soon evolved into song lyrics, fueled by the rich musical influences of the DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) area.

The tragic loss of her brother, Jajuan “Murphy” Johnson, in 2008 was a turning point. It pushed Bonet to leave her hometown behind and chase her dreams with unrelenting focus.

She relocated to Atlanta, a hub for music and culture, where she faced significant hardships, including periods of living out of her car. Yet, her determination never wavered. “I spent every penny on creating music,” Bonet shared in a 2021 interview with POWER 103, underscoring her all-in commitment to her craft.

Bonet’s big break came when she crossed paths with the late Grammy-winning engineer and producer Alvin Speights, known for his work with icons like Michael Jackson and Boyz II Men. Under Speights’ mentorship, Bonet honed her skills not only as a vocalist and songwriter but also as a studio engineer.

This hands-on experience gave her a rare edge, allowing her to control every facet of her sound. “I learned priceless knowledge in the studio that would help my future in the music and entertainment industry,” she told Seekers Time in 2021.

Rene Bonet delivers classic R&B with a modern twist, channeling the soulful vibes of the ‘90s while infusing them with contemporary production.

Her songs often explore themes of love, self-discovery, and resilience, resonating with listeners who crave music that feels both timeless and fresh.

Bonet hit a new stride in April 2025 with the release of her EP Flowers & Pearls. What makes this project stand out is how distinctly her it is. It plays like it was crafted in total creative freedom, with a sound that drifts like you’re floating through satin waves. Just five days ago, the EP hit #5 on Apple’s iTunes R&B chart.

Bonet is not just another sweet R&B wannabe. Her work was praised by legendary R&B singer Dave Hollister, who apparently DMed her when she was working on a remix of Backstreet’s Before I Let You Go.

With a modest following on Spotify, it may only be a matter of time—or perhaps just the right collaboration with a bigger artist—before she hits world-wide success.