I've been enjoying the Top 40 hits as much as the next person, and I think that right now there's some absolutely amazing stuff in popularity. That being said, I definitely also enjoy discovering smaller artists that may have an innovative unique style, or they may just be getting started on their musical journey. Some of these artists have less than 500 followers on Spotify, and some are beginning to boom in the industry. Regardless of the situation, I've compiled a little playlist of songs by artists that I think are not super well-known. From pop, to R&B, to alternative - here you have it.

1. "This Is My Time" by Amy Stroup

This song is empowering and extremely energizing in both its lyrics and beat. I'd classify the genre as alternative.

2. "Burning Bridges" by Bea Miller

Bea Miller got her start on the American version of X-Factor years ago, and she's been putting alternative and rock influences into her unique pop music. This song lightly plays off of some aspects of the class children's song, "London Bridge," but with much more adult themes.

3. "River" by Bishop Briggs

Bishop Briggs's genre is described as "dark pop," but it sounds alternative, and almost even soulful, to me. This song has some awesome bass drum beats.

4. "Silhouettes" by Colony House

A guy that sat next to me on a train started talking to me and ended up showing me this song. It has a cool alternative-rock, but slightly indie, kind of vibe and it's just a positive, upbeat jam with some beautifully crafted lyrics.

5. "DaNcing in a RoOm" by EZI

This song is the absolute ultimate banger, if you ask me. The message from the lyrics kind of reminds me of "New Rules" by Dua Lipa. It has light electronic beats mixed with some classic danceable pop vibes. This is a dance party must-have, and a total single ladies anthem.

6. "Oceans Away" by Gavin Becker

Gavin Becker was a contestant on the ABC show "Boyband," over the summer of 2017. He made it to the top 16, but said goodbye to the show after that. He has a large social media following, and he has released a few singles and an EP. This song is my favorite of his. It's a light-hearted love song that just gives off major summer vibes.

7. "Focus" by H.E.R.

H.E.R. is one of the amazing newer voices in R&B music. I discovered her because she was featured on Daniel Caesar's amazing love song, "Best Part." Her voice is so soothing to me, and her songs all have such perfect chill beats.

8. "Video" by India.Arie

India.Arie is the queen of my heart. All of her music is SO fantastic. I would have included the song, "Beautiful Flower," by her, but it is unfortunately not on Spotify. This song talks about loving your body, despite what the media tells us beauty is. It's an OG Body Positive jam with great soulful riffs. India's voice is impeccable, and I definitely recommend listening to any and everything by her.

9. "Somebody To Love" by Kacey Musgraves

Kacey Musgraves is one of my absolute favorite artists because she has given an awesome activist touch to alternative country music. Her lyrics are crafted in such a poetically intricate, yet simple manner that they will be constantly on the tip of your tongue. Also, I'd like this to be the public record that I've loved Kacey's music since 2014 and everybody's been sleeping on her (despite my low-key aggressive recommendations). She's touring with Harry Styles in the spring, and everybody's gonna freak out, so I'm just gonna leave this right here.

10. "Warmth" by Noah Mac

Okay, this dude. His style is truly one of a kind, it brings back some old-time vibes with little modern and alternative touches. His voice definitely reminds me of Sam Smith, but he definitely goes into lower, grittier ranges, while Sam is all about that insane falsetto. Noah rose to fame on the latest season of "The Voice," and, while he went home after the Top 8, he is the definite winner in my book.