The 2020s have been a transformative decade for music, marked by a blend of genre experimentation and cultural shifts that have brought some fascinating new voices to the forefront. The 2024 music scene is more diverse than ever, with artists pushing boundaries in unique ways, rather than simply fitting into popular sub-genres like in past decades.
The best new music of the past few years has featured breakout social media stars as well as underground talents still building their following. And we've sought to give you a taste of both, with some names you'll recognize, and others most have yet to hear. All of them however reflect the creativity that defines the 2020s music landscape. These are the best new artists setting the tone for the future of music, and the fresh sounds that are set to dominate the rest of the 2020s.
With nearly 500K monthly listeners on Spotify, Little Stranger is by far one of the biggest names on this list. However, this eclectic duo from Charleston, SC has one of the most impressive bodies of work among recent artists, blending hip hop and indie pop with fun, upbeat melodies and catchy lyrics on nearly every track of their entire discography.
The band, composed of John and Kevin Shields (not related), has developed a reputation for their high-energy performances and quirky music videos. They’ve performed over 100 shows annually, gaining a loyal fanbase through relentless touring and a creative DIY approach.
Their sound differs from the trap beats dominating mainstream hip hop, incorporating funky, 90s-style rhythms paired with playful, witty lyrics that draw comparisons to artists like Gorillaz and Beck. Music lovers looking for best new music artists with something fun to add to their playlists, will appreciate their quirky visuals, and fun, yet introspective tracks like “Red Rover”. Make sure to check out our interview of them last May when they released their latest album “God at a Festival.”
A hot new rapper from the Dirty South, Atlanta's own Latto blends gritty Southern trap with confident lyricism, setting her apart in the hip-hop scene. Her sound, a mix of hard-hitting beats and bold, unapologetic rhymes, reflects influences from both mainstream rap and the underground. Known for hits like "Big Energy," she stands out for her brash delivery and empowering themes.
Charli XCX is an experimental pop artist who fuses futuristic production with catchy, rebellious lyrics. Her sound often shifts between mainstream pop hooks and edgy, hyper-pop influences, blending infectious melodies with boundary-pushing beats. Innovative collaborations for key projects, like her song "Guess" Billie Eilish, have helped set her apart as a leading figure in modern pop.
Olivia Rodrigo burst onto the scene with her raw, emotional songwriting, blending pop, rock, and indie influences. Her sound, highlighted by hits like "drivers license" and "good 4 u," captures heartbreak and youthful angst with a fresh, authentic voice. Rodrigo’s unique ability to fuse pop sensibility with rock-inspired edge makes her a standout in today’s pop landscape.
As a member of Flatbush Zombies, Erick the Architect blends introspective lyrics with experimental, jazz-infused beats. His solo work explores deeper, more personal themes with intricate wordplay and soulful production. Erick’s unique sound combines classic boom-bap influences with futuristic, genre-defying instrumentals, appealing to fans of thoughtful, conscious hip-hop.
Formed in Cardiff in 2006, Los Campesinos! blends indie rock with elements of punk and twee pop. Known for their energetic sound and clever, often sardonic lyrics, they gained critical acclaim with their debut album Hold on Now, Youngster. The album was celebrated for its frenetic energy, establishing them as one of the best new music acts.
Their ability to balance upbeat, anthemic sounds with melancholic themes helps set them apart, creating a sound that is both fun and emotionally resonant. For those looking for best new artists with a mix of intensity and depth, Los Campesinos! packs a punch!
Nilüfer Yanya blends indie rock, jazz, and soul, creating a sound that’s introspective and raw. Her distinct, husky voice pairs with guitar-driven melodies and atmospheric production. Known for tackling complex emotional themes, her music stands out for its vulnerability and depth. Fans of moody, genre-blending music will find her sound both refreshing and unique.
Thuy brings a fresh take to R&B with her smooth, melodic vocals and relatable lyrics about love and self-discovery. Her music mixes modern R&B vibes with 90s influences, standing out for its laid-back, soulful production. Thuy’s authenticity and emotional depth resonate with listeners seeking honest, feel-good R&B.
With a sound rooted in folk and country, Zach Bryan has become a big name among country music fans over the past few years. Known for his raw, heartfelt storytelling and acoustic simplicity, Bryan's raspy voice and unpolished bring a sense of authenticity to his music. Definitely check him out of you're a fan of down-to-earth, emotionally charged folk and Americana songwriting.
One of our favorite new artists, Brittany Davis defies genre boundaries, blending elements of soul, rock, jazz, hip-hop, and gospel. Their music is deeply personal, often reflecting on themes of identity, resilience, and mental health. With a unique ability to convey profound emotion through sound, Davis' music is a medium that transcends visual storytelling.
I know what you're thinking! "Why the heck is Busta Rhymes on a list of the best NEW music artists?" We all know he's an old-school hip-hop icon, but it was the mid-1990s when he gained fame with hits like "Woo-Hah!!", and as a member of Leaders of the New School, as well as touring with A Tribe Called Quest.
While most artists from the 1990s have extended their careers by catering to their fan's aging demographic, Busta has recently tried to keep up with the times. His latest album Blockbusta released in late 2023 features collaborations with some of today’s hottest stars, including Quavo, Young Thug, Burna Boy, Kodak Black, and DaBaby.
Busta's distinct voice and dynamic flow blend seamlessly with modern rap sounds, bridging the gap between old and new generations of hip hop. So while he's not one of the best new artists, his latest album is among the best new music, and a must-listen for fans of both modern rap and old-school hip hop.
Lime Garden combines indie rock with electronic and disco elements, creating a sound that’s both fresh and danceable. Known for their catchy hooks and sharp lyricism, their music mixes post-punk energy with playful melodies. Fans of alternative bands that blend upbeat rhythms with introspective lyrics will find Lime Garden’s unique vibe appealing.
Sprints is a Dublin-based post-punk band with a gritty, raw sound that blends punk aggression with clever, socially aware lyrics. Their music is fast-paced, guitar-driven, and fueled by frustration, tackling themes like identity and politics. Listeners who appreciate bands like IDLES or Fontaines D.C. will enjoy Sprints’ fierce, unapologetic style.
In 2019 MJ Lenderman was working in an ice cream shop and playing music on the side, when he released his self-titled debut album. Just 5 years later and he now has over 5K subscribers on YouTube and nearly a million monthly listeners on Spotify. His music blends lo-fi production with influences from 90s rock and folk, delivering emotional, sometimes humorous lyrics about life’s complexities.
If you're into modern Hip Hop or R&B, but tired of the same old sounds, definitely give Body Meat a try! They're an extremely experimental project, blending electronic production with R&B, hip-hop, and even punk influences. Known for complex, layered compositions and genre-blurring soundscapes, Body Meat stands out for an unpredictable and forward-thinking approach to music.
Geordie Greep, former frontman of the avant-garde band Black Midi, has gained widespread attention as a solo artist following the group's indefinite hiatus. Known for his experimental approach to rock, Greep is now exploring new sonic territory with his debut solo album, The New Sound. Greep recorded the album with over 30 session musicians across Brazil and London, infusing it with diverse, eclectic sounds.
His complex songwriting and signature “warped croon” vocals make him stand out, pushing boundaries while maintaining an emotional core. Fans of innovative, unpredictable music will be drawn to his ability to create both chaotic and deeply melodic pieces
Jessica Pratt’s sound is a delicate blend of folk and soft rock, characterized by her ethereal, whispery vocals and minimalistic acoustic arrangements. Her introspective lyrics and lo-fi production give her songs a timeless, intimate feel. Fans of singer-songwriters like Vashti Bunyan or Angel Olsen will be drawn to Pratt’s soothing, introspective music.
An experimental artist blending genres like electronic, shoegaze, and bedroom pop, Jane Remover crafts deeply emotional, immersive soundscapes. Known for pioneering the dariacore microgenre, her music evokes a raw, atmospheric edge that challenges conventional production. Her recent work embraces a mix of guitar-driven anthems and electronic experimentation, captivating fans of boundary-pushing music.
A fierce and melodic saxophonist, Sarah Hanahan draws inspiration from jazz greats like Coltrane, blending intensity with lyrical conviction. Her music is both emotionally charged and technically refined, leaving listeners with memorable themes that linger long after the performance. With a commanding stage presence, she’s a rising star in NYC's vibrant jazz scene.
This UK indie rock band delivers sharp, introspective lyrics with a raw, unpolished sound that feels both nostalgic and fresh. English Teacher mixes post-punk influences with melodic guitar riffs, creating anthems for disillusioned youth. Their standout ability to marry clever songwriting with emotional depth makes them a must-listen for fans of indie with a bite.
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