Music is something all people can relate to. There are many musicians out there doing what they love, but get little to no recognition. Whether they have not gotten their big break yet or what-have-you, these musicians put their heart and soul into all their work and deserve some recognition.
1. Abstract
Abstract is a Seattle-based rapper. He is, in my opinion, one of the best lyricists in the game. He is definitely on the rise. One of my favorites by Abstract is "Neverland" featuring Ruth B. Check it out and maybe he can gain another fan.
2. Witt Lowry
Witt Lowry is a Connecticut-based rapper with emotionally charged music. If you're ever feeling down, listen to some of his music and maybe it can relate to you. Witt is on track to make it big, especially with the recent debut of his first album, "Dreaming with Our Eyes Open." His next album is coming out soon, and currently, he is releasing a new song every month. A favorite of mine is, "Kindest Regards."
3. Illcaso
Illcaso is an Arizona-based trap/EDM DJ duo. Their music is filled with heavy bass lines, so if you're into that, you'll be into this.They are just starting to hit their stride as their music is becoming ever more popular. A personal favorite of mine is, "Graves TRAP."
4. MOD SUN
Dylan Smith, aka MOD SUN, is an alternative rock hip-hop artist based in Minnesota. Fun fact: MOD SUN, is in fact, an acronym for "Movement on dreams, stand under none." If this doesn't tell you what kind of music he plays then, well, you're lost. If you like chill, relaxing music with positive vibes, then you should check him out. A good song to start off with would be "My Hippy ft. Dizzy Wright."
5. K-391
K-391 is a Norwegian-based EDM music producer/DJ. He faces plenty of competition currently as Norway is pretty much the Mecca of EDM. If you are into relaxing vibes and upbeat music, then K-391 is the one for you. One of my favorites is "Summerime [Sunshine]."
6. Artist Vs. Poet
Artist Vs. Poet is a Texas-based pop rock band. Currently, they are on hiatus, but that has not stopped them before as they came back shortly after to release new music, If you're into a pop/punk alternative sound, then you should give Artist Vs. Poet a listen. The song "Fresh," has a good mix of that alternative and poppy feel that they have been going for.
7. Sticky Fingers
Sticky Fingers is an Australian-based indie rock band. Although they never made it big in the U.S., Sticky Fingers has released two Top 40 albums in Australia. It should only be a matter of time before they get some international recognition. If you're into that indie/reggae sound, then give Sticky Fingers a shot. "Australia Street" is a good first song to give you a taste of their music.
8. Ivan B
Ivan B is a California-based rapper. He released his first mix-tape in 2014, and since then, he has been on the rise. Being only 20-years-old, the music he makes is relatable to many of us today. If you like rap that isn't just about money, sex, and drugs, then give Ivan B a listen. A personal favorite of mine is, "Edge of the World ft. Niykee Heaton."
9. Niykee Heaton
Featured previously, Niykee Heaton is a Chicago-raised artist. She is described by critics as a model first and a musician second, but do not let that fool you. Niykee Heaton is a great musician, the more famous you are, the more "haters" you will have. If you are into ballads with a poppy feel, then give Niykee a shot. Featured previously, here is the full song that was sampled by Ivan B, "Infinity."
10. James Hersey
James Hersey is an American singer-song writer who surprisingly has a very big following in Germany. His music is emotionally charged and filled with strong lyrics. He released his first album last year and it should only be a matter of time before he makes it big. He has all the skills necessary for that, he can play guitar and sing. What a combination. If you are in a relaxing mood, spice it up with some James Hersey. A good song to listen to would be, "Coming Over."
11. Hendersin
Hendersin is a Massachusetts-based rapper. Hendersin aims to promote positivity and pleasure. With all the trouble in the world right now, sometimes it's nice to sit outside under the shade, listen to some positive music, and just forget all the troubles in the world. The perfect music to go with that would be Hendersin. My favorite song by him is, "Open Book."
Honorable Mention:
There are millions of artists in the world, and many of them go by with little to no recognition. Some work multiple jobs just to support their dream of making it big. When that happens, you could say you were there from the beginning. It is like watching a child grow up, you cannot help but cheer for them when they succeed. Who knows, you could be the one fan that makes the difference.
