The 61st Grammy Awards happened last week. Many familiar faces graced the red carpet, performed their chart-topping hits and collected gold during the ceremony. Several lesser-known but mega-talented artists also stole the show. As is the case with any award show, some people who deserved the accolades were not nominated (*cough* Taylor Swift *cough*). But to quote Drake’s infamous speech, “You’ve already won if you have people who are singing your songs word for word.” So here is a list of artists who fall outside of the “celebrity” mold, their sound and story is a little different. Their strong presence in music is saying something, that people love all kinds of music. So regardless of whether they got some Grammy love or not, here are 5 artists who are bringing something new to our playlists. Okurrr?
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Troye Sivan
Once upon a time, Sivan was a YouTuber, now he is getting nominated for Golden Globes. The singer, songwriter and actor is only 22-years-old but he already has bops scattered all over the Billboard charts. A subject that Sivan explores extensively in his music is his sexuality, or to be specific his queer sexuality. That honest, raw storytelling has struck a chord with listeners worldwide.
Check out: My, My, My; Youth and Fools.
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Kacey Musgraves
Country music gets the reputation of being a rather conservative space, my trip last year to Nashville showed me that most bars are filled with a similar sound. But for a long time Musgraves has been talking about subjects rarely explored in the genre. Back in 2013, she released a song called “Follow Your Arrow” where the lyrics show support to the queer community. The lyrics “Kiss lots of boys/ Or kiss lots of girls if that’s somethin’ you’re into” might not seem like a big deal. But for a country artist to be this outspoken is brave. In 2019 Musgraves is finally getting her dues with her “Golden Hour” winning a Grammy for ‘Album of the Year.’
Check out: Merry Go Round, Follow Your Arrow and Rainbow.
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BTS
The seven-member group were just presenters at the Grammy Awards this year but they were certainly the most talked about artists of the night. Since their debut in 2013, the group has consistently given listeners catchy songs, lightning-fast choreography and offbeat fashion – along with searing cultural commentary. Their commitment to social causes and frank conversations on mental health has made them role models amongst fans of all ages. The septet has shown that they have a tendency for breaking rules and records. The fact that they make music in Korean was never an obstacle.
Check out: DNA, Spring Day and Blood, Sweat and Tears.
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Kehlani
If you listen to R&B and hip-hop you’ve probably heard Kehlani’s honey vocals. The American singer, songwriter and dancer have given us so many slow, soulful songs perfect for a rainy night or a long drive. The two-time Grammy Award nominee is one of those names that is just waiting to explode all over the US radios.
Check out: Honey, The Way and You Should Be Here.
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H.E.R
I have to be honest, I only discovered H.E.R. on Grammys night. But look at her shred that guitar! Since then I’ve been listening to her songs on repeat and you should too. The 22-year-old is still in the early stages of her music career but she’s already got two Grammys in her bag. We need more of her talent and #BlackGirlMagic.
Check out: Hard Place, Could’ve Been and Focus.