You don’t have to settle for mainstream pop. There are new independent artists with a fresh approach to songwriting and incredible sounds that will leave you wanting more. Let’s take a look at the best up-and-coming artists—not to be missed!
Dream Pop and Folk Pop are two of our favourite styles of music—and they’re both incredible in their own way. Dream pop is almost like a dream: it’s ethereal, soft, and light on its feet. You’ll fall in love with its delicate melodies immediately.
Folk-pop has a bit more energy than dream pop, but still manages to keep its roots in folk music traditions—so it’s got a bit of a kick to it!
KELLY & KAT releasing Stardust
This talented duo from NY, United States, has managed to create a unique sound that combines commercial pop with a touch of easy listening, making it a refreshing addition to the US-based culture.
But wait! There’s more! We’ve also discovered some amazing artists who don’t fit into any specific genre at all—they’re just too good to be pigeonholed (though we do have some favourites).
It’s time for you to discover these gems too—and we’ve made it easy by curating playlists so you can listen from start to finish without having to do any work yourself
1) NELLEKE – Send The Rain
Hailing from Rotterdam, Netherlands, indie-folk artist Nelleke is set to release her new single, “Send The Rain,” as part of an upcoming EP scheduled for early September.
Drawing inspiration from the likes of contemporary singer-songwriters such as Bon Iver and Sufjan Stevens, Nelleke’s unique blend of indie pop and alt-folk creates a euphoric and easy listening experience for fans of the genre.
One listen to “Send The Rain” and it’s clear that Nelleke’s music is a banger, with a critic describing it as “a super edgy, art pop masterpiece that transports listeners to a world of Europe based culture and cinematic soundscapes.”
Her strong female vocals are both relaxing and captivating, making it impossible not to get lost in the music.
Don’t miss out on this incredible artist and her latest single. Visit Nelleke’s website, follow her on Spotify, and like and listen to our playlist featuring the best in alternative pop and indie folk. You won’t be disappointed.
2) PETRA JASMIINA – Jackie O Lake
After packing her life into a suitcase nearly 8 years ago, she got on a plane and left everything behind – her job, her family, her friends, and even her home in Finland – in pursuit of a dream of being a musician in New York City.
If you’re a fan of dream pop and alternative pop, you’ll definitely want to check out the latest single from New York City-based artist PETRA JASMIINA. “Jackie O Lake” is a perfect blend of US and Europe-based culture, with a hint of Nordic influence.
The track is a beautiful example of art pop, with its cinematic and nostalgic feel, and Petra’s female vocals are truly captivating.
As a singer-songwriter, Petra has crafted a classic sound reminiscent of famous artists in the genre like Lana Del Rey and Florence + The Machine.
One listener described the track as “a relaxing and easy listening experience that transports you to a different world.” The contemporary pop elements in “Jackie O Lake” make it a must-listen for fans of indie pop and those looking for a new favourite artist.
Don’t miss out on this fantastic single and be sure to follow PETRA JASMIINA on Spotify. Visit her website for more information and like and listen to our playlist featuring her music. You won’t be disappointed!
3) ALEX MCCUE – Dialogues With God
Los Angeles-based indie pop artist Alex McCue has just released his latest single, “Dialogues With God,” and it’s a must-listen for fans of alternative pop and jazz.
The song’s upbeat track and live studio video were recorded in Valencia, Spain, where McCue spent a year studying music production and immersing himself in the city’s vibrant sounds.
Drawing inspiration from big band, funk, and groove, “Dialogues With God” showcases McCue’s ability to blend contemporary soul with a classic sound.
One listener described the single as “a super catchy, easy listening gem that transports you to a world of US-based culture and soul.” With influences like John Mayer and Stevie Wonder, McCue’s music is sure to resonate with fans of both male vocals and instrumental prowess.
If you haven’t already, check out “Dialogues With God” and visit Alex McCue’s website to learn more about this talented artist. Be sure to follow him on Spotify, like and listen to our playlist, and keep an eye out for more amazing music from this emerging talent.
4) GENUINE LEATHER – Even If I Could
From the heart of Austin, United States, comes a unique and captivating artist: Genuine Leather. His latest single, “Even If I Could,” is a masterful blend of dream pop and electronic pop, with a touch of leftfield.
The song’s distinctive sound is the result of late nights spent enjoying inexpensive brews and experimenting with an older sibling’s Tascam tape recorder and Yamaha synthesizers, following a tough breakup.
This talented artist’s music is reminiscent of 80’s vibes and contemporary pop, featuring male vocals that evoke the likes of famous artists such as MGMT and Neon Indian.
One listener praised the quality of the music, stating, “Genuine Leather’s sound is a breath of fresh air in today’s Lofi pop scene, offering an easy listening experience that is both soothing and invigorating.”
Don’t miss out on this incredible talent. Visit his website, follow Genuine Leather on Spotify, and like and listen to our playlist to stay updated on his latest releases. You’ll be immersed in a world of synth-pop and US-based culture, unlike anything you’ve heard before.
5) SAMANTHA GIBB – Tongue-Tied
Samantha Gibb, a rising star in the united states, Nashville, has recently released her latest single, “Tongue-Tied,” and it’s nothing short of a masterpiece.
Her unique blend of dream pop, electronic pop, and synth-pop, combined with her powerful and anthemic female vocals, has resulted in a love song that is both captivating and refreshing.
“Tongue-Tied” is one of those songs that is a feel-good song that makes you want to dance and lifts your spirits. As one listener so eloquently put it, “Samantha Gibb’s music is like a breath of fresh air in a world filled with repetitive pop tunes.”
Drawing inspiration from the likes of famous artists in the alternative pop and commercial pop genres, such as Lorde and Halsey, Gibb has managed to create a sound that is uniquely her own.
If you haven’t already, now is the perfect time to check out Samantha Gibb’s “Tongue-Tied.” visit her website, follow the artist on Spotify, and be sure to like and listen to our playlist featuring this incredible track.
6) JOLENE LOZANO – Saturday Morning Blues
Jolene Lozano, an indie pop artist hailing from San Francisco, United States, has recently released her latest single, “Saturday Morning Blues.”
This contemporary soul track is a perfect blend of pop, funk, and groove that showcases her exceptional talent. Jolene praised “Saturday Morning Blues,” calling it “your ultimate hangover cure song.”
Filled with neo-soul vibes and female vocals reminiscent of famous artists like Erykah Badu and Jill Scott, this love song will surely captivate your heart.
One listener described Jolene’s music as “a super catchy and super edgy banger that transports you into a world of US-based culture and relaxing vibes.”
This alternative pop track is a testament to her ability to create commercial pop hits with a unique twist. The single’s infectious melody and lyrics will have you humming along in no time.
Don’t miss out on this incredible artist! Check out “Saturday Morning Blues,” visit Jolene Lozano’s website, and follow her on Spotify. Additionally, be sure to like and listen to our playlist featuring her music and other amazing indie pop tracks.
7) LISA GOLDIN – Like That
Lisa Goldin, an independent artist hailing from St Johns, united kingdom, has recently released her latest single “like that,” which is making waves in the commercial pop scene.
with a quirky and unique style, Goldin’s music is reminiscent of famous artists like Sia and Florence + the Machine. her cinematic sound and euphoric female vocals make this love song a perfect addition to your relaxing playlist.
“Like That” is a contemporary pop masterpiece that combines a classic sound with easy listening elements. One listener described it as “a soundtrack for the soul, capturing the essence of love in every note.”
This praise speaks volumes about the quality of Goldin’s music, and it’s hard not to agree when you hear her captivating voice.
if you’re a fan of pop music, you owe it to yourself to check out Lisa Goldin and her single “like that.” visit her website, follow her on Spotify, and be sure to like and listen to our playlist featuring this fantastic artist. you won’t be disappointed.
8) LEUER – I Can’t Believe I Found You
If you’re a fan of folktronica and indie pop, you absolutely need to check out LEUER, an independent artist hailing from Portland, United States.
His latest single, “I Can’t Believe I Found You,” is a superb example of his unique sound, blending electronic pop with alternative pop elements. One listen and you’ll be hooked, just like we were.
LEUER’s music is reminiscent of famous artists in the genre, such as Bon Iver and Sufjan Stevens. The single is a heartfelt LGBTQ love song, featuring male vocals and a touch of autotune that adds a modern twist to the anthemic track.
A standout quote to describe the quality of his music is, “LEUER’s sound is super catchy, super edgy, and a true banger.”
Don’t miss out on this US-based culture gem. We highly recommend you check it out, visit his website, and follow the artist on Spotify.
And while you’re at it, be sure to like and listen to our playlist featuring LEUER and other fantastic indie artists.
9) HENKA – Caught Up
HENKA, the London-based artist, has just released her latest single, “Caught Up,” showcasing a remarkable evolution in her artistry.
This anthemic banger is a perfect blend of electronic pop and synth-pop, infused with a touch of alternative pop. The single captures HENKA’s ability to explore her deepest emotions through music.
The track features euphoric female vocals reminiscent of popular artists like Florence + The Machine and Robyn.
The cinematic and super catchy sound of “Caught Up” is bound to make you want to dance. One listener described the single as “a super edgy, commercial vocal dance masterpiece that reflects the UK-based culture.”
Don’t miss out on this amazing song! Check it out on Spotify, visit HENKA’s YouTube, and follow the artist for more updates. Also, be sure to like and listen to our playlist featuring HENKA and other great artists.
10) KELLY & KAT – Stardust
Listening to KELLY & KAT‘s latest single “Stardust” is like taking a journey through a dreamy, ethereal landscape of contemporary pop.
This talented duo from NY, United States, has managed to create a unique sound that combines commercial pop with a touch of easy listening, making it a refreshing addition to the US-based culture.
Their single “Stardust” showcases the duo’s incredible female vocals, reminiscent of famous artists like Ariana Grande and Dua Lipa.
A critic once described their music as “a mesmerizing blend of celestial harmonies and modern pop sensibilities.” This quote perfectly encapsulates the essence of KELLY & KAT’s music.
Don’t miss out on this fantastic independent artist! Check out “Stardust” and follow KELLY & KAT on Spotify.
Visit their website to learn more about their music, and be sure to like and listen to our playlist featuring their songs and other contemporary pop gems.
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