Alternative: The Colourist
While this band has been trying to make it for a few years, they started getting attention after their debut song, “Little Games”, which won “Best New Song” at the O.C. Music Awards. Their self-titled album released this year, featuring “Little Games” alongside some other really cool tracks (check out Stray Away!).
Country: Sam Hunt
While Sam Hunt has been on the country music scene for a few years as a songwriter, he released his own EP and full album this year. His debut single, “Leave the Night On” immediately became a top hit. My favorite song on his album, “Montevallo” is “House Party” – perfect for a little pre-gaming with a twang.
EDM: Zhu
The artist that goes by the name Zhu emerged earlier this year with his track, “Moves Like Ms. Jackson”, made up of OutKast songs. Determined to stay completely anonymous for the sake of being judged solely for his music, Zhu came back onto the EDM scene recently with his song, “Faded”. His track, “Stay Closer”, is slower than most EDM songs but is definitely worth a listen.
Hip-Hop/Rap: Kevin Gates
Kevin Gates actually released his first album back in 2007, but only started gaining attention at the end of last year. His style of music reflects artists like Drake, combining reflective melodies with intense rap lyrics. “Posed to Be in Love” is my favorite song from his album, “By Any Means”, released earlier this year. “Loose Control” from his most recent album, “Kevin Gates vs. Young Thug”, has church bells and choir singing in the backdrop of the rap and the combination is incredible.
Latin: Francisca y Los Exploradores
I can’t say that I know a lot about Latin music in general, but newer band Francisca y Los Exploradoes shakes up the Latin music scene with some slower, indie latin. And while I don’t speak Spanish, I really love the tune and emotion of their songs on their album, “Barbuda”, particularly in the song, “Contraindicaciones del Pensamiento”.
Pop: Niykee Heaton
Niykee Heaton started on YouTube singing rap song covers. She released her EP “Bad Intentions” early this year and it immediately became really popular. As talented as she is beautiful, Niykee Heaton is definitely going places – just listen to her short but great album “Bad Intentions”.
R&B: Snoh Aalegra
Pulling a Lorde and getting recognition through SoundCloud, Snoh Aalegra’s debut album “There Will Be Sunshine” may only be a few songs long, but each is beautiful and intense. Her voice is deep and soulful on the same level as legends like Amy Winehouse or Alicia Keys. Make sure not to listen to her song, “You Always Knew”, in public – it’s a tearjerker for sure. I became a huge supporter of Snoh Aalegra within 5 minutes of listening. Check her out!
Rock: Of Mice and Men
This band has had a turbulent start with members leaving and joining and rejoining; however, the current arrangement of Of Mice and Men is definitely worth a listen. Their sound can rang from soft rock to hard metal, even if the same song. I really appreciate one of their slower, softer songs, “Would You Still Be There”. However, if you’re feeling some particularly angst, “SECOND AND SEBRING” may be for you.