New artists are entering the music industry everyday. I am here to tell you which ones you should be listening to now. I often find myself growing tiresome when I listen to the same mainstream artists over and over. However, these underrated artists are a breath of fresh air and deserve recognition.
1. LANY
Pronounced "Lay-nee", this trio's name refers to their desire to reach audiences from coast to coast: Los Angeles to New York. Their creative skill is visible throughout the album as well as their music videos. On their self-titled album, the indie, "dream" pop group includes tracks like "ILYSB" and "Super Far" that make for the perfect dance, beach, or road tripping playlist. Other songs like "Someone Else" and "13" are slow, mellow tracks. In any mood, LANY is the type of band that you can repeatedly listen to and never get tired of.
2. Dua Lipa
Though she has made it big in her native country, Lipa has yet to amass the same following in the US; but, she is definitely on her way. Dua Lipa, an English pop singer, has gathered much success lately with her single "New Rules." Her sultry tone and rebellious lyrics bring something refreshing to the pop industry. She includes a variety of stylings, from upbeat songs such as "Blow Your Mind (Mwah)" and "IDGAF" to nostalgic ballads like "Thinking 'Bout You" and "Homesick" (with accompanying vocals by Coldplay's Chris Martin). Her debut album "Dua Lipa" showcases the singer's versatility.
3. Blackbear
With four albums already out, Blackbear is finally getting the recognition he deserves with his recent single "do re mi." Blackbear has actually been in the industry for quite some time. He has worked with a wide array of artists, from Childish Gambino to Pharell Williams. He has also featured on the tracks "Champagne and Pools" and "Surprise Party" with Hoodie Allen. The solo artist introduces an interesting blend of genres. He allures listeners with clever lyrics and catchy mixes. Many new listeners may only see his R&B side with his newest album "digital druglord." However, his earlier EP and album "Dead"and "Deadroses" truly capture the depth of Blackbear's talent.
4. mansionz
Formed in 2016, friends Matt Musto (aka Blackbear) and Mike Posner make up the music act mansionz. The two began their musical partnership when they worked on Justin Bieber's "Girlfriend." At the beginning of this year, the duo released their self-titled album "mansionz." If you like Blackbear's music, you will enjoy this collaboration. Their music incorporates crafted lyrics and a variety of sounds similarly featured in Blackbear's tracks.
5. Billie Eilish
Only 15-years old, California teen Billie Eilish makes indie-electronic music. Prominent tracks like "Bored" has been featured on 13 Reasons Why, and "Ocean Eyes" has allowed for a significant amount of success for Eilish. Recently, she released her EP titled "don't smile at me." She has still to release a debut album. However, this teen has already offered a glimpse at her insane amount of potential. The best is yet to come.
6. Daniel Caesar
R&B singer and songwriter Daniel Caesar has maintained a low radar in the music industry since 2015. A series of EPs only hinted at Caesar's extensive talent. Releasing his first album "Freudian" in August of this year, Caesar has finally allowed for others to bask in his soulful vocals and soothing melodies. Caesar takes inspiration from his own life, singing about religion and love. You can hear the authenticity through every single harmony and beat.
7. Family and Friends
Established in Ohio in 2014, the band of six musicians treats its fans as family and friends - hence their name. They believe in a collective mind, heart and soul. Their music and sound best represents this - a sense of community and belonging. Their songs put things into perspective with lyrics like, "And I can't help but think / There must be something I am missing / See when I lay my head to sleep, a voice inside keeps whispering / He says, are you where you want to be?" There is complexity in both its lyrical and instrumental structure. Family and Friends encapsulates the greatest parts of an indie rock band.
