The music industry is constantly changing. Every day, more and more artists are emerging in the spotlight. And thanks to streaming services like Spotify and Soundcloud, new artists are finding new ways to get their music out to the masses. I'm always looking for new artists to listen to. So I decided to compile a list of people who I listen to that I think are going to make an impact in 2018. Some names you'll recognize, but some may be new to you.
1. Platinum (FGM)
Platinum is a new artist out of New Orleans. When you're hailing from a city that has produced hip-hop heavy hitters like Lil Wayne and Flow, it may seem like a daunting task to distinguish yourself in the crowd, but that's exactly what Platinum does. I had the opportunity to talk with Platinum, and when asked what new fans can expect from his music, he said you'll have the same feeling he has when a new Lil Wayne tape comes out, you don't know what you're going to get, but you know it's going to be great.
With the constant release of new music and a recent feature on YoungMoneyHQ, I see nothing but success in this young rapper's future. You can check out his new mixtape "My Playlist" on Spinrilla and you can find him on all streaming services.
2. Coaastgxd
To call his style unorthodox is an understatement. Coming from Canada, Coaastgxd is carving out a name for himself in the underground hip-hop scene. With over 10,000 followers on social media in a matter of 6 months and 250,000 plays on Soundcloud, it's only a matter of time before he breaks into the mainstream. One thing that makes him stand out is his connection to his fans. He calls his fans "The Hopeless Gang" and has been very adamant about using his influence to connect with his fans who are dealing with anxiety, depression, and addiction.
You can check him out on all music streaming services. With a history of touring under his belt and a unique style of rap and punk-style screaming, things will only go up for this emerging artist.
3. IDKHBTFM
Some say that Alternative music is dying, however, these two young men are proving that wrong. Former Panic! At The Disco bass player Dallon Weekes and Falling in Reverse's drummer Ryan Seaman have teamed up to bring a new sound to the music industry. Their new group "I Don't Know How But They Found Me" (IDKHBTFM), has already made a splash. The two singles they've released have both broken into the Top 10 charts on iTunes, and have gathered 1.5 million plays on Spotify combined. It's safe to say we haven't seen the last of this new group.4. Kevin Gates
Kevin Gates is not new to the music industry. He's been featured on the XXL Freshman cover and has a huge fan basis already. Due to incarcerations, however, he is yet to drop a debut album. Fresh out and re-focused, the Baton Rouge rapper is already recording. This is looking like the year that Kevin Gates finally shows the world what he can do.5. Saba
The city of Chicago has been under fire as the shooting death rate skyrockets. However, there are several young artists that are rising out of the turmoil. And Saba is an exceptional young talent. He's released several solo projects and was featured on Chance The Rapper's Grammy-winning mixtape "Coloring Book." With several TV appearances and constantly playing shows, I strongly believe this young man will make a huge impact in 2018.
6. Sk8
Sk8 Maloley has been on the rap scene since 2014 when he was featured on the gold-certified song "Like That" with high school friends "Jack and Jack". Since then, he's dropped 3 solo projects and has gone on to sell out show and show. The Nebraska native has a strong, loyal fan base behind him as well as an evolving sound that fits his style. He's previewed a feature from Wiz Khalifa as well as gotten a featured article on BET. He has a bright future ahead of him.
7. The Game
Unlike the other people listed in this article, The Game is already an established artist. He's sold millions of records in the nearly 15 years since his debut album came out. As his other ventures continue to grow, The Game has announced that his upcoming album "West Side Story" will be his last. As a lifelong fan, I would highly recommend looking out for this man's farewell to hip hop.
8. Young M.A
Young MA burst onto the scene in 2016 with her mega-hit "OOUUU". Since then, she's dropped singles, an album, and multiple freestyles, which have garnered millions of views on YouTube. With 2018 being a new year, I'm excited to see what Young M.A has in store for us.
9. Panic! At The Disco
For anyone who knows me, you would know that I am a HUGE P!ATD fan. Coming off a successful run on Broadway, the Grammy-nominated frontman of the group Brendon Urie has been in the studio working constantly. With a new album coming this year, there almost seems like nothing can stop him from taking over the industry once again.
Music is constantly evolving and getting better, and as a fan, it's very exciting to see. Keep your ears listening for the next big thing!