Whether you’re lazing in a park with friends or driving down the coast for a weekend getaway, these 11 artists are perfect for any spring activity. Some of them are chill enough to read to and others have catchy lyrics I can’t help but sing along to. Either way, music can set the mood for any occasion, and I honestly don’t know what I’d do without it.
Billie Eilish
With her killer street style and tomboy attitude, the music Billie creates is rather unexpected. The soft, emotional quality of her voice is fresh and offers stories about the heartache and excitement of being a teenager in and out of love. Billie is only 16, but has a specific creative vision that she expresses in her music and album art. For someone so young, she already has a defined sound and I can’t wait to see what she releases next.
Daniel Caesar
Collabs with people like Kali Uchis and Jessie Reyez have really amped Daniel’s music library to new heights. His sound is slightly melancholy, but that’s what makes it special. With over 5 million monthly listeners on Spotify, Daniel has acquired a dedicated fanbase that adores him.
Solange
I’m going to say it—Solange is severely underappreciated. She’s often only labeled as “Beyoncé’s sister” but she is so much more. Her 2016 album “A Seat at the Table” is nothing short of a masterpiece that covers topics like cultural appropriation and confidence. A strong and beautiful woman, Solange has been the face of Calvin Klein, Michael Kors and other brands. Her discography is diverse, yet her melodic, strong voice never waivers.
Berhana
With tropical notes and an immersive aspect, Berhana’s music is bright and refreshing. As reported by Fader, Berhana’s self-titled album loosely walks through a day in the life of a 20-something. Voice recordings from the street and birds in the background add to the flair and ease of this project.
Japanese Breakfast
A solo project of Michelle Zauner (member of the band Little Big League) Japanese Breakfast has a high pitch without being whiny. Her album title “Soft Sounds from Another Planet” actually describes the sound perfectly. Pleasant, soft tracks can surround the listener by another planet, one of clouds, pastels, and possibly some breakfast foods.
Beach House
A classic, Beach House has a large discography yet maintains consistently chill sound. The duo comprised of Alex Scally and Victoria Legrand create intricate sounds that made me think it was an entire band and not just two people. The name of the duo describes the aesthetic of their dream pop style. It’s the perfect music to listen to on a beach, at a picnic, or on a west coast road trip.
Alvvays
This Canadian indie band has a distinct warm vintage sound. Their music could be in the background of a 1970s trip to the beach. With a perfect balance of light beats and melody, their tracks give off the vibe of the carefree golden days of yesteryear.
Carla Morrison
Carla is a Mexican singer and composer who’s won two Latin Grammys for her album “Déjenme Llorar”. Her music is drifty, dreamy and usually slightly sad. All of her discography is in Spanish, and she is a perfect example of good music crossing borders and language. Knowing Spanish doesn’t change the beauty of her songs – in fact, the romantic language makes them even better.
Fox Academy
Originating from Portland, Oregon, Fox Academy is comprised of artists Michael Todd Berland and Christian Novelli. Their songs are the epitome of hazy (in a good way). When I listen to their albums I feel like I’m transported to Neverland; It’s like they’re meant for a relaxing day in the sun.
Kali Uchis
Hailing from Colombia, Kali released her standout EP “Por Vida” in 2015. She’s recently dropped her debut album titled “Isolation”, which is being received well by both fans and critics. Her music is lush and sexy and combines Spanish and English. Her videos and visuals are nothing short of stunning and incorporate a vintage feel.
Fenne Lily
Fenne Lily is a singer/songwriter based in Bristol, United Kingdom. Her songs are insightful and focus on feelings and emotions. Her songs are about everything from heartbreak to feeling isolated from her peers and give a luxe, smooth sound.
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