An array of genre-crossing artists are making huge moves in 2017. It is likely we will have to wait until next year for full albums from some of these names. Luckily enough, I have provided you with eleven essential names you need in your 2017 playlist.
1. Steve Lacy
For fans of The Internet, Syd and Frank Ocean.
Steve Lacy is an 18-year-old hip-hop producer, who gained fame and followers through the app SoundCloud. He is well-known for using his iPhone as a recording studio. His undeniable talent has sky-rocketed his career, producing for big names like J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar.
2. CUCO
For fans of Mac Demarco, Kali Uchis and Kevin Abstract.
This Chicano singer-songwriter has quickly gained attention with his psychedelic sound. His blend of the Spanish language and electronic beats creates a unique blend of sounds. CUCO, whose real name is Omar Banos, is likely to become a sought-after artist within the following year.
3. Smino
For fans of Amine, Andre 3000 and Chance the Rapper.
Smino dropped his debut album "Blkswn" in March; since then his influence and following have been growing rapidly. The hip-hop album has eighteen tracks, each with their own fast-paced and futuristic sounds.
4. Clairo
For Fans of Yellow Days, Homeshake and Banes World.
Nineteen-year-old, Claire Cottrill, made her debut through her music video for her hit single, "Pretty Girl". The video, which was uploaded to YouTube, is now riding on two-million views. Clairo has yet to put out an entire album, but it is much anticipated in the following year.
5. Jorja Smith
For fans of Sade., Daniel Caeser and Charlotte Day Wilson.
Jorja Smith is an English singer-songwriter. On her own, she has released a multitude of singles; the sounds ranging from soul to jazz.
6. Sabrina Claudio
For Fans of SZA, Jhene Aiko and Khalid.
Sabrina Claudio got her start uploading songs onto YouTube and SoundCloud. In March of this year, she released a collection of songs in an independent album titled "Confidently Lost".
7. GoldLink
For fans of Amine, Vic Mensa and Joey Bada$$.
In 2014, D'Anthony Carlos released "The God Complex", a mixtape that would later receive critical acclaim. His music is an even blend of hip-hop, R&B, and electronic beats.
8. NAV
For fans of The Weeknd, Post Malone and 21 Savage.
NAV is a recording artist and producer from Canada. In the last three years, he has produced tracks for Travis Scott, The Weekend and Drake. In 2017, he released a self-titled album featuring hit singles like "Myself", and "Some Way," which features The Weeknd.
9. BROCKHAMPTON
For fans of A$AP Mob, Tyler the Creator and Kevin Abstract.
BROCKHAMPTON formed in 2011 by Kevin Abstract and Ameer Van. The group met on an online fan forum for Kanye West. Their sounds reflect alternative hip-hop and R&B.
10. Her's
For fans of King Krule, Geowulf and Beach Fossils.
Her's is a band composed of Audun Laading and Stephen Fitzpatrick. Together they have created a modern take on psychedelic, summer sounds. This year they released "Songs of Her's" which is made up of nine tracks.
11. Benny Sings
For fans of Quadron, Jamie Lidell and Stee Downs.
Benny Sings is a Dutch musician who has been recording and creating music since early 2003. Unfortunately, his last album was released in 2015. His most popular album, "Art" was released back in 2011 and features hits like "All We Do For Love" and "Big Brown Eyes".