As we are more than halfway through the year 2016, I thought it necessary to highlight some bands and artists that are going to become very important over the next few months leading into the year 2017, and some that have always been important. Some of these are my personal favorites that I think everyone should listen to, and some are just the obvious.

1. Courtney Barnett

Don't let this Australian rocker's baby face fool you; she's got quite the stage presence. Barnett was nominated for a Grammy in 2015 for the "Best New Artist" category, but lost to pop star Meghan Trainor (a cruel and unusual choice, if you ask me). She has an EP out, called "A Sea of Split Peas," and a must-listen debut album called "Sometimes I Sit and Think, and Sometimes I Just Sit." This Janis Joplin protégé is someone everyone should give a listen to.

2. Alabama Shakes

This Grammy-winning band has been on the scene for a few years now, but if you haven't listened to them yet, please do. They aren't necessarily "new" or "on the rise" so to speak, but they can only go up from here. They took home three Grammys this year: "Best Rock Performance," "Best Rock Song" and "Best Alternative Music Album." Do yourself a favor and consume, consume, consume.

3. Rayland Baxter

He's handsome and he makes great tunes. For some reason, he hasn't gained much traction in terms of the alternative mainstream scene, but I predict he will soon. He is one hit away from becoming the new Augustana crossed with Bear's Den. Rayland Baxter is a true musical gem. The song "Yellow Eyes" is emphatically beautifully and equally heartbreaking. Give it a listen.

4. Miguel

A sexually fierce performer with a voice that sounds like Chris Brown and Michael Jackson had a child. Miguel has been around for awhile now, but his most recent album "Wildheart" is a groovy, hip-hop, rock fairy tale that will leave you begging for more. My two personal favorite tracks from his latest album are "Coffee" and "A Beautiful Exit." Listen and enjoy.

5. Vulfpeck

An all-around wonderful band. Soulful and funky music you'd want to dance to in a not obvious way. Vulfpeck is marvelously groovy, and they are amazing performers. Listen to "Back Pocket" and you will be so satisfied. I promise you will not be disappointed in any of their five albums. My personal favorite is "Fugue State" (2014).

6. Shakey Graves

Something about his low, raspy voice is haunting to me. I like Shakey Graves because he has some songs that are soothing, like "Only Son," and some songs that are more intense in a self-wallow type of way, like "Family and Genus." He seems like a cool guy that makes some great music.

I wanted to make this list short and sweet. There is obviously way more incredible music out there, but these artists remain some of my favorites to date, and have some highly-recommended music.