With so many new indie artists emerging into the music industry, it can be difficult to keep up with today’s hits. Luckily, we’ve gathered the best of the best so you’ll always feel relevant. Read on to discover five indie artists you should already be listening to. Â
1. Halsey
New Jersey native, Halsey, has emerged from the world of Tumblr to give us the best of her experience in her new concept album, Badlands. Badlands, according to Halsey (a.k.a. Ashley Frangipane), is “an angry female record,” where she is able to reveal the inner workings of a world she created in her own head. Listening to her sultry voice and simplistic beats take you to a place you never knew you wanted to be. Her lyrics are thrown at you in such a way that you find yourself repeating them over and over. Her most famous lyrics state, “You were red / And you liked me because I was blue / You touched me and suddenly I was a lilac sky / And you decided purple just wasn’t for you” can be heard through the screams of her devoted fans on the Badlands Tour that’s happening now.
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The Neighbourhood first became popular in 2013 when their hit, “Sweater Weather,” was at its peak. For those who haven’t kept up with them, they’ve since released a mixtape titled, #000000 & #FFFFFF, that is available for free download. Their next album, Wiped Out!, will be fully released on October 30th, 2015. With their calming bass and beach vibes, The Neighbourhood has succeeded in bringing listeners with them to the West Coast. Their latest single, “R.I.P. To My Youth,” is currently being performed on their #TheFlood2015 Tour.
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3. Oh Wonder
If you ever need some mood music to study, Oh Wonder is the group for you! The Californian duo’s voices blend together perfectly to match their laidback music style. Their songs are composed of many basic sounds that when combined create something beautiful. Initially, Oh Wonder released their music song by song. However, on September 4th 2015, their entire album was released gaining the approval of their fans. Oh Wonder has a couple of dates lined up to perform soon, so keep a look out!
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4. Troye Sivan
Troye Sivan, an Australian performer, was first introduced to the world through YouTube. His self-titled YouTube channel has over 3.6 million subscribers. Troye began posting covers on his channel until August 15, 2014 when his first EP, TRXYE, was released. After the the EP’s success, he decided to release another EP, WILD, that made it to #5 on the Billboard 200 chart. Troye’s alternative style and real-life situations give him the right edge to be adored by many. It’s no surprise Sivan’s upcoming U.S. Tour, where good vibes and surprises for fans await, has already sold out!
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5. Thomston
This New Zealand native makes the artistic music you wish you could. His hit, “Collarbones,” provides insight into his surroundings that seem to be more relatable than his past music. You can feel the passion flowing through every high note he sings and every key he presses. Thomston’s lyricism is for those who want to experience something when they listen to music. The first chorus from the song goes, “And I believe you / Cause nothing else could get much better I believe you / Feeling like we’re at the equator I see you.” Thomston is currently working on his debut album while playing shows when possible; his last being at Bestival, a four-day music festival held in the United Kingdom.
Did your favorite indie artist make our cut? Let us know!