By Catherine McLellan
It is easy to be consumed by the same mainstream music, but by exploring other artists, one can open their ears to new sounds. Here are some suggestions for lesser-known upcoming artists who are becoming increasingly popular this year.
ROLE MODEL
Song recommendation:
“six speed”
Tucker Pillsbury, more commonly known as “ROLE MODEL,” draws on his own personal experience with the painfully relatable struggles that troubles today’s youth in his mellow pop songs. His most recent Extended Play (a musical recording containing more tracks than a single, but not enough tracks to be considered an album), “oh, how perfect,” consists of six songs that fit his dreamy, yet melancholy vibes.
Photo/ https://www.instagram.com/heyrolemodel/?hl=en
Ruel
Song recommendation:
“Say”
Australian singer and songwriter, Ruel Van Dijik—or Ruel—received the ARIA Music Award for Breakthrough Artist for his single “Dazed & Confused” in 2018. The 17-year-old began his music career in 2017 with the release of his single “Golden Years” with M-Phazes.
Photo/ https://junkee.com/ruel-free-time-interview/221458
Finneas
Song recommendation:
“Let’s Fall in Love for the Night”
Unbeknownst to many, Billie Eilish’s brother and producer, Finneas, boasts a singing talent of his own. The 22-year-old alternative and indie singer has performed with his sister at the Oscars and the Grammys, as well as taken home his own Grammy for Producer of the Year, Non-Classical.
Photo/ https://twitter.com/finneas
Dave
Song recommendation:
“Funky Friday”
One of Britain’s most explosive new artists, Dave, topped the UK charts with his album “Psychodrama,” at just 20 years old. Starting his music career in 2016, the rapper has continued to earn praise from critics for his bold and moving music. Dave will embark on his international tour beginning with a sold-out UK leg.
Photo/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dave_(rapper)
Olivia O'Brien
Song recommendation:
“Sad Together”
Olivia O’Brien first came into the spotlight for her vocals on the hit “i hate u, i love u,” which she wrote at age 15. Now 20, the R&B and pop singer writes about modern-day struggles based on her own life that many others can relate to. O’Brien recently released a mixtape, titled “The Results Of My Poor Judgement,” consisting of three songs.
Photo/ https://genius.com/Olivia-obrien-sad-songs-in-the-summer-lyrics
King Princess
Song recommendation:
“Homegirl”
Michaela Mullaney Straus, professionally known as King Princess, is an American singer and songwriter. As a child, the Brooklyn born singer was considered a music prodigy and was even offered a record deal at 11 years old. Now 21, she draws inspiration from Dolly Parton, Nick Cave and Beyonce to create her soulful songs.
Photo/ https://www.highsnobiety.com/p/mark-ronson-king-princess-pieces-us/
Inner Wave
Song recommendation:
“Eclipse”
Inner Wave is a band made up of five best friends with an alternative and indie sound. They are currently working on new music in their LA studio, which they named The Swamp after LA’s hot suburban summers.
Photo/ https://www.complex.com/pigeons-and-planes/2019/04/inner-wave-ep-interview
mxmtoon
Song recommendation:
“prom dress”
Maia, better known as mxmtoon (em-ex-em-toon), is an American and Chinese singer and songwriter known for her lofi ukulele hits. After first releasing a single in 2017, the YouTube star has since released her debut album “the masquerade,” in 2019. Maia draws on her personal experiences to connect with her audience; one of her most popular songs, “prom dress,” tells the story of her high school experienc
Photo/ http://foundationsmusic.com/mxmtoon/
Rosalia
Song recommendation:
“Con Altura”
Rosalia Vila is a Latin pop singer hailing from Spain. Along with her Grammy nomination for Best New Artist, Rosalia took home the Grammy Award for Best Latin Rock, Urban or Alternative Album for her album “El Mal Querer.” Rosalia also performed at the Grammy Awards.
Photo/ https://genius.com/artists/Rosalia
Lil Tjay
Song recommendation:
“Brothers”
Hailing from the South Bronx, Tione Jayden Merrit has risen to fame for his collaboration on “Pop Out” with Polo G. Recently, the 18-year-old has been creating infectious hip-hop hits that bear a resemblance to his role models, Usher and Michael Jackson.
Photo/ https://www.complex.com/music/2019/10/lil-tjay-interview
Normani
Song recommendation:
“Motivation”
Best known for her time in the girl group Fifth Harmony, Normani has been exploring her solo career; her debut solo single “Love Lies” with Khalid reached over 650 million streams. Since then, Normani has teamed up with top artists such as Sam Smith, Calvin Harris, Quavo and many others.
Photo/ http://www.revelist.com/celebrity/normani-motivation-music-video/16196
Tate McRae
Listening to more artists can help people expand their music taste and enjoy new types of music. Many people may find their favorite artists in the genre they least expect.