5 Artists You Should Be Listening To

Music is everywhere: in the car, in retail stores, in the background of your favorite movie. And there is, oh, so much of it.

With so many options, how then are you expected to choose what to listen to?

Well, to answer this question, I've compiled a list of the top five artists you should be listening to right now. I've built this list based on a few different factors, the most prominent of which is, of course, my own taste in music, which I subjectively believe is the best. However, I've also taken into account artist relevance, genre variety, and all of that good stuff. Whether your playlist is getting old or you're just in search of something new, I hope that this helps you find some musical inspiration.

Without further ado, here are 5 Artists You Should Be Listening To:

THE JAPANESE HOUSE

Amber Bain, otherwise known as "The Japanese House" has picked up a lot of traction in the musical field over the past few years. She is known for her dreamy, atmospheric sound that blends indie pop, synth-pop, and electronic elements. Since debuting in 2015 with the EP Pools to Bathe In, Bain has been recognized for her ethereal vocals, introspective lyrics, and innovative production. Her music often explores themes of identity, relationships, and emotional vulnerability.

Bain’s first full-length album, Good at Falling (2019), received critical acclaim for its lush soundscapes and raw emotional depth, cementing her as a standout in the indie music scene. Her ability to seamlessly combine melancholic melodies with intricate electronic production sets her apart, with influences ranging from Bon Iver to Imogen Heap. The Japanese House's 2023 follow-up album, In the End It Always Does, further develops her sonic experimentation, incorporating more live instrumentation and deeper emotional narratives. I recommend you give the song "Sunshine Baby" a listen... it's my favorite.

COIN

COIN is an American indie-pop band from Nashville, Tennessee, formed in 2012 by lead vocalist Chase Lawrence, guitarist Joe Memmel, and drummer Ryan Winnen. Known for their infectious, upbeat sound, the band blends indie-rock with synth-pop elements, often featuring catchy melodies and vibrant production.

They first gained attention with their self-titled debut album in 2015, which included the hit single “Run.” Their breakthrough came with their 2017 album How Will You Know If You Never Try, featuring the viral hit “Talk Too Much.” The band’s sound is characterized by a mix of nostalgic 80s synths and modern indie pop, appealing to fans of both genres.

BLOOD ORANGE

Blood Orange is the project of British artist Dev Hynes, known for blending R&B, indie pop, and electronica. Launched in 2011, Blood Orange explores themes like race, identity, and sexuality through rich, atmospheric soundscapes. Albums like Freetown Sound (2016) and Negro Swan (2018) have garnered critical acclaim for their emotional depth and social commentary. In addition to his solo work, Hynes is a sought-after producer, collaborating with artists like Solange, FKA Twigs, and Sky Ferreira.

A few songs that you should definitely check out are "Gold Teeth," "The Complete Knock," "Champagne Coast," "Best To You," and "Charcoal Baby." Make sure you listen to each of them a few times, they only get better.

KAYTRANADA

Kaytranada is a DJ and producer renowned for his innovative blend of electronic music with R&B, hip-hop, and funk. His Grammy-winning album BUBBA (2019) elevated his profile globally, with standout collaborations featuring artists like Pharrell Williams and Kali Uchis.

In 2023, Kaytranada continued to push boundaries by teaming up with rapper Aminé for the joint project KAYTRAMINÉ, blending his signature production style with Aminé’s witty, playful lyrics. Known for his live performances and remixes, Kaytranada remains a key figure at the intersection of electronic, hip-hop, and R&B, with his work celebrated for its infectious energy and genre-defying creativity. Try listening to his song "Witchy" featuring Childish Gambino.

CANNONS

Cannons is an American indie pop band formed in 2015 in Los Angeles, California. The trio consists of lead vocalist Michelle Joy, guitarist Ryan Clapham, and bassist Paul Davis. They gained popularity with their dreamy sound characterized by synth-pop elements and Joy's ethereal vocals. Their breakout single, "Fire for You," released in 2020, became a viral hit. Cannons' music often explores themes of love, longing, and nostalgia, drawing influences from the '80s and '90s pop and electronic music. The band's vibrant sound and aesthetic have garnered them a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim.

If you're interested, I would recommend checking out their 2019 album Shadows. My personal favorites on that record are "Love on the Ground" and "Love Chained." And don't forget to give "Afterglow" a listen. After all, it is my most listened-to song of 2024.