Alika Lyman Group: The Soulful Architects of Modern Funk
The Alika Lyman Group is a dynamic American soul and funk collective led by vocalist and songwriter Alika Lyman. Hailing from Minneapolis, the band achieved notable commercial success with their 2018 album Urban Echoes, which charted on Billboard's Top R&B Albums chart and spawned several certified gold singles.
Early career
Formed in 2012, the Alika Lyman Group emerged from the vibrant Minneapolis music scene, a city with a deep legacy in funk and R&B. The collective initially built a reputation through relentless touring and self-released EPs, catching the attention of the independent label Groove Theory Records in 2015.
Breakthrough
The group's major breakthrough arrived in 2018 with the release of their sophomore album, Urban Echoes, on Groove Theory Records. The lead single, Midnight Drive, became a slow-burn hit, eventually reaching the Top 40 of the Billboard Adult R&B chart and earning a gold certification for digital sales.
Key tracks
Midnight Drive — This gold-certified single defined their breakthrough, blending slick basslines with Lyman's smoky vocals.
Steady Glow — A fan favorite from their debut, this track showcases their tight, horn-driven live energy.
Urban Echoes — The title track from their charting album is a sophisticated, jazz-inflected piece highlighting their musical depth.
Better View — Featuring a collaboration with vocalist Maya Sterling, this 2021 single expanded their reach on contemporary R&B playlists.
Found My Line — A later-career highlight known for its intricate musicianship and extended instrumental breaks.
Following the success of Urban EchoesThe Current, saw them experimenting with modern production while staying rooted in classic funk, and included a notable collaboration with legendary bassist Pino Stroman.
For fans of the Alika Lyman Group's authentic blend of soul and funk, similar artists featured on our site include Durand Jones, who also leads a revivalist soul ensemble with a vintage feel. The Secrets share a commitment to polished, horn-section-driven funk music. Listeners may also enjoy the modern R&B grooves of Moonchild, which feature a similar jazz-inspired sensibility.
The music of the Alika Lyman Group maintains strong rotation on adult R&B and classic soul radio stations across our network. Their hits are staples on independent music radio stations dedicated to timeless grooves, and newer tracks frequently appear on online soul radio streams seeking fresh, authentic sounds.
You can hear the soulful rhythms of the Alika Lyman Group on radio stations featured right here on onairium.com. Discover their catalog of funk anthems and smooth R&B cuts by tuning into the stations available on our platform.
