I truly could not go one day without music. I am always searching online for the next big concert or music festival and none of this could ever get old to me. One of my favorite things to do in my free time (or instead of studying) is discover and listen to new bands/artists.

This reminds me: if you do not have Spotify, download it NOW. It is the easiest and best way to find new music, make playlists and share music with your friends. With all of this being said, I will help you get started on your new music search with a few upcoming artist suggestions! Music preferences can say a lot about a person. Add these five artists to your playlists and make some new (more hip) friends:

1.  Real Estate. First of all, my current favorite song is by this band: “Talking Backwards.” It’s one of those songs that I think everyone could get into; it’s calm, but not sad. I would call them an indie rock band. Needless to say, I was overjoyed to hear that they are playing at Austin City Limits this year. (Buy your tickets – you don’t want to miss that!)

2. Mac Demarco. Honestly, I just started listening to this indie rock artist after seeing his name on the ACL lineup, as well as all over social media. I looked him up on Spotify and his song “Let Her Go” did not disappoint. I have also heard that his concerts are absolutely amazing, so I suggest you try to see him at ACL in October.

3. Wild Cub. I had the pleasure of seeing Vampire Weekend live last week at Stubb’s BBQ in Austin. At first, I had no idea that they even had an opener but I found out when I got there that it was Wild Cub. I had never heard of them, but they put on an amazing show. Normally, I am bored and anxious during opening performances, but they were so FUN! They had a techno vibe to them and even covered Lykke Li’s song “I Follow Rivers.” I highly recommend that you check them out, especially because I know they will become pretty big soon!

4. NONONO. They are performing at Lollapalooza this year which is AWESOME! Look up the song “Pumpin’ Blood” and I guarantee you have heard it. If not, you will love it. It is one of my feel-good songs, and I truly believe that it can significantly change your mood into a better one.

5. Bombay Bicycle Club. I think that this may be the most “popular” band out of those listed, but this is also one of my favorite bands as of recently. They are one of those bands that you ALWAYS want to listen to in the car, and that’s exactly what I do. If you listen to the song “Shuffle,” you will be completely hooked to the band.

While I thoroughly enjoy huge artists such as Lana Del Ray, the Arctic Monkeys, Lorde and etcetera, it really is fun and exciting to discover artists that will be the next big things. Plus, music connects you with so many people – might as well have a unique music taste!

Photo courtesy of 123rf.com/profile_andresr.