If you are looking for some great independent pop music, look no further. Rank It Higher brings a playlist of great indie and innovative pop music.
We know that finding good music can be tough. That’s why we put together this collection of many songs that have been on repeat for weeks.
Another reason for putting our efforts to find high-quality new music is that there’s nothing better than an indie pop music workout playlist. Whether you want to get pumped up while doing some squats, or relaxing with a glass of wine on the patio, you’ll love this indie pop playlist as it’s all about super fresh music.
So, whether you’re feeling a bit more mellow or have some energy to burn, this playlist is for you. In the mood for some indie pop? We’ve got that too.
We’ve updated our playlist by adding new tracks from some of our favourite independent pop artists but there is a little bit of something for a diversified audience. If you need something light and airy, check out tracks from our other playlists too. Or if you want to get down with some upbeat music, try listening to our selection now.
This update comes at a great time since it’s still summertime and everyone needs something new to listen to as they explore! You can listen to our full playlist which contains the artists’ music, and know more about the artists by scrolling down the page.
1) PHOENIX ROSE – Waiting For The World
When it comes to independent pop music, there’s nobody quite like Phoenix Rose. This London-based artist is a triple threat—her voice is powerful, there is something infectious about her lyrics and it’s meaningful, and her production is top-notch.
Her latest single, “Waiting For The World”, has been making waves across the UK since its release. It’s an infectious anthem that will get stuck in your head for days—and that’s not even a bad thing!
The song has all the makings of a pop classic: upbeat rhythm, choruses you’ll be singing along with in no time, and lyrics that are both emotional and uplifting at once.
If you’re looking for something fresh with a classic sound, this is it! Check it out, visit her YouTube and follow her on Spotify.
2) LUEGO – Four Minute Mile
LUEGO is a folktronica pop artist from Austin, Texas. His single “Four Minute Mile” is an absolute must-listen for anyone who likes catchy, contemporary country-rock beats with super catchy pop and autotuned vocals.
Producers from PopHits.Co described the song as cinematic, soft rock with amazing male vocals that blend seamlessly with the guitar on top of an electronic beat that’s reminiscent of a drum machine from the 1980s. This comment is not only positive but a sign that the artist could achieve his goal, transporting the listener to another dimension.
The artist knows how to make music a proper art. The melody itself is also incredibly enjoyable—you’ll find yourself humming it all day long!
This is pure dance by very talented women from different ethnicities, which has a very cinematic feel. The colours are muted and the scenery is beautiful-it’s almost like watching an imaginary movie. As a result of the dark and smoky-style footage, it is both mysterious and peaceful at the same time.
I would highly recommend watching his music video, visiting his YouTube, checking out this song and following LUEGO on Spotify!
3) DYSKINETIC – McCartney IV
DYSKINETIC‘s new single, McCartney IV, is a banger. It’s the kind of song you can blast in your car while driving to work, or in your headphones while walking through the park. It’s got a catchy beat and an upbeat tempo—and it’s not only beautiful but fun!
It’s also more than that. The lyrics have a sad melody but are hopeful at the same time like they’re telling you not to give up when things are tough but also reminding you that there are other people out there who understand what it feels like to be struggling.
The artist—a disabled UK citizen—has been working on his music career for some years now, and it shows: that it feels like he poured all his energy into making sure that every note sings out clearly. About his words, well he wrote this song playing a Uke, an instrument which he was still learning its techniques. It’s impressive!
The song features the band’s signature easy listening style, with acoustic guitars and soft vocals that are accompanied by light percussion. If you’re looking for something new and different, give DYSKINETIC a listen. Check out his website and follow him on Spotify!
4) BOBO – Brand New
BOBO is an independent pop music artist from Stockholm, Sweden. His EP Brand New is a 6-track collection of tracks that shows his range as well as his ability to bring together different genres on a bedroom pop blend. The EP has been released on Spotify and you have to listen to all songs for sure.
Bobo’s sound is R&B pop with elements of funk, bedroom pop and contemporary EDM. The first song “Brand New” opens with a dark, atmospheric intro before moving into a more commercial pop sound that incorporates both male and female vocals over a dance beat. This track showcases Bobo’s amazing versatility as an artist.
The follow-up track “Bloodline” features a funky bass line and disco-style bass drums while still maintaining the commercial vibe of the previous track, this time with a more tropical vibe. This track also features some cool synth work that adds an element of sophistication to the song without being too overbearing or distracting from the rest of the mix.
The next songs, well you will not resist too, one of them is bringing back some of the dark atmospherics heard at the beginning of “Brand New,” but this time they’re used in conjunction with electronic sounds instead of acoustic instruments like piano or guitar. We loved it!
This EP shows off even a sexy character on the H.B.I.P. tune, which is also intriguing. It’s your turn, give it a try! Check it out, visit his YouTube and follow him on Spotify.
5) MARSHALL HARNER – When The Night Was Just The Time When We Could Fall Asleep
MARSHALL HARNER is an indie pop artist from Nashville, Tennessee. His major debut album, “When The Night Was Just The Time When We Could Fall Asleep”, was released some months ago. It features 17 super fresh tracks of alternative pop and alternative soft-rock with a focus on the genres of R&B and even emo rap.
The album begins with “In too deep” which has a strong R&B vibe with some EDM influences as well as some hip-hop elements. It’s a good start to the album because it’s upbeat but also slow enough for listeners to get into the song.
Next up is “Good Times”, which is more of an indie R&B, but a Hip-Hop influenced song than anything else. It has a very catchy chorus that will stick in your head after listening to it just once and the verses are just as good because they’re not too repetitive or boring like some other songs can be when they’re trying too hard to get across their message in every line they write.
“Need You” is another great track on this album because it combines all three genres (emo rap, R&B and a rocky guitar) into one song so each part stands out in its own way without seeming forced or unnatural.
If you’re looking for something new to listen to tonight (or any night), check out MARSHALL HARNER’s “When The Night Was Just The Time When We Could Fall Asleep.” You can visit his website and follow him on Spotify as well!
6) CHRISTOPHE LORIENT – Notre Jardin Secret
CHRISTOPHE LORIENT is a singer-songwriter from Belgium, who has been creating music since he was a teenager. His latest single in French, Notre Jardin Secret, which means our secret garden, is a relaxing acoustic pop jam that will have you swaying to the beat in no time.
The song opens with an acoustic guitar strumming and Christophe’s voice coming in softly over the top. The song then builds into a more upbeat pop vibe that’s perfect for driving around with the windows down on a sunny afternoon.
It’s a ballad, a love song, it’s peaceful and made for romantic moments. So try it out dancing slowly with your loved one!
We love how Christophe’s vocals are layered with orchestral harmonies—it adds a nice layer of depth to the song without being too overwhelming, but anthemic and enjoyable.
Notre Jardin Secret is available on Spotify and all major streaming platforms today! Check it out, visit his website and follow him on Spotify.
7) SERÉNATE – Caso De Estudio
Mexico’s SERÉNATE is back with a new EP, Caso De Estudio. The new release is a collection of three tracks that showcase the artist’s soft pop sound. The music is dreamy and washed-out, with shoegaze-style effects and ethereal vocals.
It’s perfect for those who like chillwave and synth-pop, but it also has elements of electronic rock, alternative Jazz, hip-hop beats, chillout music, and even house music.
SERÉNATE’s sound is reminiscent of artists like Bon Iver and Frank Ocean. The singer’s voice is beautiful and full of emotion—it sounds like he’s singing from his heart on every track or even when showcasing a spoken word style.
His lyrics are not deep but relatable; the music will take you on an emotional journey, more through the sounds and melodies than the lyrics, as well as other universal experiences like self-reflection.
Caso De Estudio is a must-listen for any fan of indie music! You can check out SERÉNATE’s BandCamp to learn more about him, listen to his songs and follow him on Spotify.
8) CLARE EASDOWN – I’ll Wait
The single “I’ll Wait” by Clare Easdown is a song that I personally can’t get enough of. The Australian artist has been making waves in the alternative soft-rock scene for some time now, and with the great results of her new project, she’s poised to make even more noise.
The song itself is an interesting mix of pop and rock, with some electronic elements thrown in for good measure. It’s a catchy tune that will have you humming along before you know it and reminds me of Madonna. In fact, I’m listening to it right now and feel a super relaxing feeling.
She has an amazing voice! She makes her sound so dreamy that it transports us to another dimension, and it not only makes us listen but also feels different sensations.
As for the artist herself, Clare Easdown has been making music for some time, so you will find a mix of experiences and cultures. Her most recent release has been positively received by fans who are looking forward to seeing what else Clare will bring us next! Check it out, visit her BandCamp and follow her on Spotify.
9) KRIS JAMES – The Way You Move
KRIS JAMES is an independent pop artist based in the United Kingdom, and his latest single, “The Way You Move,” is a super groovy dance track that showcases his great vocals, which are capable of singing both high and low notes.
The song begins with an easy-listening vibe as James’ soft voice brings you into the song. It’s easy to picture yourself sitting on a beach, listening to this song while sipping on some fruity drink in a coconut shell. Well, I couldn’t resist letting go of my imagination.
As the song progresses, however, it gets more upbeat and energetic as James’ voice becomes more pronounced and he belts out the lyrics like there’s no tomorrow. You can also find 2 other versions of the same song but with different music genres. Give it a try!
Overall, “The Way You Move” is a great example of KRIS JAMES’ ability to create a catchy tune that combines elements of pop rock with dance music. This track will definitely get your feet moving! Check it out, visit his website and follow him on Spotify.
10) BLOODTOOTH – Where You Wanna Go
The British alternative pop artist BLOODTOOTH is known for her experimental approach to commercial music, and Where You Wanna Go is no exception.
The song opens with a brief passage of acoustic guitar, before transitioning into a dreamy melody that’s equal parts beautiful and haunting.
The track also features some of BLOODTOOTH’s most powerful vocals yet in a LoFi style—her voice has never sounded so raw and real. She sings about the need for escape, whether it be from her own mind or from the world around her.
It’s an intimate look into what it feels like to struggle with relationships or other personal challenges; she seems to be saying that we all need somewhere to go where we can find ourselves again.
This single is available now on Spotify and all other major streaming platforms! Check it out, visit her website and follow her on Spotify.
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