Oftentimes, we come across artists who make a lasting impression on us without any warning. Whether you’re a radio music listener, an active music listener, or a combination of the two, you have probably noticed an artist that not many other people know about. The following list of music acts, in my opinion, are the most underrated right now in music.
1. Alessia Cara
Who she is: 20-year-old R&B/Pop/Urban artist from Brampton, Canada. She is signed with Def Jam Records.
Why she’s great: Alessia Cara’s voice is one of the most naturally authentic voices in music today. Her sound is unlike anything on the radio. By mixing her R&B influences with heavy drum beats in majority of her songs with the effortless rasp in her voice, it’s clear Cara is a natural talent. You have probably heard her debut single “Here” on the radio, which reached #1 on Pop Radio and #5 on the overall Hot 100 Chart. Her first full-length album "Know-It-All" was released November 13, 2015 and is certified Gold by RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America).
2. James Bay
Who he is: 25-year-old Indie-rock/Soul/Blues artist from Hitchin, Hertfordshire, England. He is signed with Republic Records.
Why he’s great: James Bay has a very unique sound that mimics influences similar to John Mayer but with more angst to his voice. On March 23, 2015, he released his debut album "Chaos and the Calm," which scored him three Grammy nominations in 2015 for Best New Artist, Best Rock Album, and Best Rock Song for “Hold Back the River.” Bay has the songwriting and guitar skills that are way beyond his years – making him a true authentic artist that deserves more recognition.
3. Tori Kelly
Who she is: 23-year-old Pop/R&B artist from Wildomar, California. She is signed with Capital Records.
Why she’s great: For anyone that loves a true success story, you will appreciate Tori Kelly’s. After being rejected from "American Idol" in its 9th season, a fire was lit under Kelly to begin writing her own music and posting cover and originals on YouTube. After recording a couple of independently released EPs, she was finally discovered and signed with Capital Records in 2013. You have probably heard her singles “Nobody Love” or “Should’ve Been Us” on the radio, as they were released from her debut album "Unbreakable Smile." She was also nominated for Best New Artist at the Grammy Awards in 2015.
4. George Ezra
Who he is: 23-year-old Rock/Folk/Blues artist from Hertford, Hertfordshire, England. He is signed with Columbia Records.
Why he’s great: George Ezra has a classic sound similar to Bob Dylan in his prime. His rich, deep tone resonates boldly on his debut album "Wanted on Voyage," which was released on June 30, 2014. Despite his minimal success in America, his single “Budapest” hit the Top 40 as some radio stations picked up his classic sound. As a songwriter, he hits the nail on multiple levels – making him a force to be reckoned with in the coming years.
