Artists to Watch | October 2018
From viral sensations to promising up-and-comers, 2018 is producing an incredible crop of new artists that remind us why we listen to music at all. Here are some of our favorites so far.
Elley Duhé
The Alabama native started out playing gigs at coffee shops, bars, and restaurants. She wrote her first song at the age of 14 with a guitar she received as a gift from her father.
Her debut single, “Immortal,” is about being resilient and persevering, despite getting knocked down.
On repeat: “FEVER”
Kiana Ledé
In 2011, Kiana’s mom uploaded a video of her performing an original song onto Kidz Bop. She won the 2011 KIDZ Star USA Grand Prize out of 45,000 submissions – the largest national talent competition for kids aged 15 and under.
The Phoenix, Arizona native doesn’t only sing, but acts as well. In 2016 she was cast for a regular role in MTV’s series, Scream.
On repeat: “Fairplay”
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This New York-born singer has written songs for big pop stars like Rihanna, Christina Aguilera, Cher, and the Backstreet Boys. Her single “Lost on You” was a massive success in Europe, so much so that at one point it was the fourth most Shazamed song in the world. Her track, “Muddy Waters” was used in Netflix’s Orange Is The New Black.
On repeat: “Girls Go Wild”
Brother Leo
The Swedish singer-songwriter started his career on Swedish Idol in 2005. Despite finishing in 8th place, he signed a record deal shortly after. His debut album, Given to Fly, went to number one on the Swedish Albums Chart in its first week. His latest single, “Strangers On An Island” was produced by the iconic English DJ, Fatboy Slim.
On repeat: “Strangers On An Island”
Kulick
Although only 26 years old, Kulick has been making music since the age of 12. Between 13 and 16, he taught himself how to track and mix his own music. He started playing shows by winning an online competition in 2012 to open for YouTube star, Tyler Ward.
On repeat: “Ghost”
Nebu Kiniza
The Queens-born rapper first broke out with his single “Myself”, which was recorded in 2014. It was remixed by ILOVEMAKONNEN & Key!. His biggest hit “Gassed Up” has over 101 million listens on SoundCloud and 45 million views on YouTube.
On repeat: “Gassed Up”
Valee
Signed to Kanye’s G.O.O.D. Music, this Chicago rapper produces his own beats and records at home.
Although his latest single “Womp Womp” featuring Jeremih has over 1.7M views on YouTube he prefers to keep his head down and not get distracted by the numbers. For him, a big weekend is “Home Depot and a Caesar salad.” His first commercial project, Good Job, You Found Me EP was executive produced by Kanye West.
On repeat: “Womp Womp”
