The music world of 2017 has everything you could ask for. While the likes of Big Sean and Miley Cyrus are great to hear about, there are other artists out there that truly should be recognized for their diverse talents in this industry. I'm always on the lookout for new music and these five artists are something everyone should know about!
1. AQUILO:
The British duo made up of Tom Higham and Ben Fletcher brings a whole new meaning to heartbreaking lyrics. They’ve described their music as pretty much what it is: sad. But somehow, they have an uplifting spirit about them. It’s apparent through their alternative style music and deeply emotional lyrics that they have gone through a lot in their love lives, but Tom and Ben truly have the gift of mending a broken heart through music. Their debut album ‘Silhouettes’ is such a hit, with 14 tracks filled with heartbreak, magic, love, and soothing vocals from the pair. These two will be hitting 20 stops on their upcoming tour, and if they are in a city near you, I’d definitely go check them out. Go listen on Spotify: AQUILO Spotify
2. Billie Eilish
Okay let me just say...I’m obsessed. Billie is a 15-year-old pop/alternative singer from Los Angeles. She began releasing music on her SoundCloud with her brother Finneas in 2015 and in 2016 released her debut single “Ocean Eyes”. It immediately got picked up and released worldwide through Interscope Records. Her first album “don’t smile at me” was released on August 11th of this year, and is truly a smashing hit. Billie’s song “my boy” has especially caught the attention of many celebrities and has been posted to the Instagram stories of model Kaia Gerber and singer/songwriter Madison Beer. Eilish’s raw talent and quirky lyrics speak for themselves, and you’d be letting yourself down if you didn’t give her a listen! Listen here: Billie Eilish Spotify
3. Lauv
Lauv (AKA Ari Staprans Leff) is an American artist who truly pushes the boundaries of “pop” music. His debut EP “Lost in the Light” was released in 2015, and was an overnight success. Velvety vocals and relatable lyrics make Lauv’s music totally approachable for any music lover. He isn’t truly pop or alternative, rather somewhere in between. His style is truly unique and unable to be categorized, but that’s the best part of his music! Every song is a blend of catchy beats and strong storytelling through lyrics. He is best known for his songs “I Like Me Better” and “The Other”. I can’t wait to see what else he releases, because he is definitely on the road to stardom. Listen to him here: Lauv Spotify
4. PRETTYMUCH
This 5 piece band of boys (Brandon, Edwin, Zion, Austin, and Nick) has been dubbed the “new One Direction”. However, they have taken a different direction. Their seriously catchy single “Would You Mind” and superb dance moves has landed them major popularity with the teenage girl demographic. But they are more than just a bubble gum pop boy band, their blend of vocals is truly something special and the vibe they bring to the debut single screams 80’s for sure. Put together by Simon Cowell, it’s hard to not compare them to One Direction (both great in their own ways). PRETTYMUCH does bring the dance element back to the scene like those of NSYNC, and I think they have a lot more up their sleeve. Looking forward to new music to dance to! Listen to PRETTYMUCH here: PRETTYMUCH Spotify
5. Kacy Hill
I love this girl. Kacy is an American singer/songwriter signed to Kanye West’s GOOD Music. Her debut album “Like a Woman” is a mix of edgy pop and power ballads that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Hill’s dreamy vocals are truly powerful and give a total Florence and the Machine vibe. Her song “Lion” especially backs this up. Kacy explores the topics of self love heavily in her 12 track album which was released earlier this year. The melodies on this album are the true ring leader of each song, and Kacy takes listeners on a journey through her mind with strong lyrics as well as vocals. With Kanye West as her mentor Kacy is without a doubt on her way to huge success. Listen to her here: Kacy Hill Spotify