Summer is the perfect time for road trips, hanging out by the pool, and just having fun. If you are like me, the right soundtrack is absolutely essential for any activity. The radio is super convenient, and requires minimal effort. However, there are only so many times I can listen to the same 10 songs before I would rather just sit in the comfort of silence. Fortunately, the world of music is very broad, and there are many great artists out there who are not constantly overplayed! Below is a collection of underrated or lesser known artists that might provide your playlist with the refresh it needs.

Artists you have heard that one catchy hit by, but have never explored:

1. Rachel Platten

Best Known Song: "Fight Song"

While many people are familiar with her one hit wonder that skyrocketed her from a small fan base to daily radio play, few have actually investigated the rest of her more recent album, "Wildfire." Her music is the perfect mix of personal, powerful, and sentimental. She is unashamed to be herself and expresses that through her song writing. The album features a stunning mix of motivational, relatable power songs and softer, sweeter songs to indulge your romantic side. If you are looking for lyrics that inspire and motivate you as well as touch your heart, Rachel Platten may be your new queen of pop.

New Song Recommendation: "Lone Ranger"

2. Charlie Puth

Best Known Song: "One Call Away" and "Marvin Gaye"

Also best known for a couple of songs that are stuck in your head all day long, Charlie Puth is blessed with an incredibly versatile music style and easy voice that you could listen to forever. Much of his popularity has come from collaborations with artists such as Meghan Trainor and Selena Gomez. However, he also has some incredible songs of his own that are perfect for chilling out to. Also, if you have never seen the video for "One Call Away," it is absolutely adorable and worth listening to the song one more time for.

New Song Recommendation: "Losing My Mind"

Artists you may have heard of but never listened to:

1. Tori Kelly

Best Known Song: "Hollow"

Like Rachel Platten, Tori Kelly deserves to be crowned the new queen of pop. Her mix of powerful vocals and gentle acoustic guitar blend seamlessly with lyrics that are worthy of being qualified as poetry. Many of her songs are perfect if you are recovering from a breakup, but she also has some other beautiful ones mixed in. Her lyrics will inspire and break you, taking you on a roller coaster of emotions that will make you say, “someone finally put how I feel in a song!”

New Song Recommendation: "First Heartbreak"

2. Zedd

Best Known Song: "Clarity"

If something less pop and more electronic is your style, Zedd is a top recommendation. He blends his skills with music production with incredibly talented singers for mind-blowing results. His songs have featured Troye Sivan, Foxes and most recently, Kesha! There really is not anything not to love about him.

New Song Recommendation: True Colors (ft. Kesha)

Bonus Recommendations:

If you need to study, or need some relaxation time but do not want to give up your pop anthems, check out The Piano Guys

Everyone knows Kelly Clarkson, and how absolutely perfect she is. But did you know she can also sing opera really, really well?

Happy listening!