Every year different artists jump out from out of nowhere, ready to surprise us with their music. We welcome these artists, of course. There is so much more unique music to listen to every year, a music lover would be happy to hear everything. Indie is a genre that gets more and more attention these days. It’s a genre that almost competes with other big genres like rock when it comes to gaining new artists. Anyway, if you’re looking for new music you are in the right place. Take a look at these up-and-coming indie artists and bands.
It’s not quite dance, it’s not quite indie… Shamir’s music is kind of a mix of both. The best of both worlds, some would call it. Shamir (full name Shamir Bailey) is 21 years old. He was born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada. Shamir has been songwriting and performing for most of his life, but when he released his EP “Northtown” in 2014, critics were raving. His style somewhat reminds us of disco legend Sylvester, but Shamir certainly does also have a personal style. His voice is extraordinary. Emotional, yet very powerful.
If you’re more in the mood for some raunchy rock; listen to Hinds. Hinds formed in Madrid, Spain and have been rising the charts since last year. The four women make indie music that are semi lo-fi. Their songs mostly consist of three chords, which strangely enough does not get old. In fact, this simplicity makes Hinds’ songs stand out from the crowd. Sure, they’re not quite Black Rebel Motorcycle Club just yet, but they are definitely getting there.
The Black Keys have been around for years, so bear with us. They shouldn’t really be on this list for this very reason, but it’s been so long since their latest album. We were almost afraid to never hear a new tune from the duo Black Keys ever again! There was no reason for panic after all, because the Black Keys dropped an album last year. “Turn Blue” takes the Black Keys into a different direction. There is less heartfelt guitar with a rock-sound, but more electronic tones. Any good band should always look into reinventing themselves. The Black Keys have done just that. Give “Turn Blue” a listen. We’re sure you’ll agree that “the old” Black Keys are unrecognizable.
Four young British guys that try to take the world by storm… where have we heard that before? Just kidding, the 1975 stand out from the regular boybands we see so often. Sure, they all look good. Yes, they all sound good, too. What makes them different is their refreshing, upbeat songs. When you’re feeling down, put on some 1975. We’re sure you’ll feel better in just a couple of tracks. If you need a starting point, we suggest you give their song “Chocolate” a listen.
Three people that make funky, upbeat electro-pop music? Where do I sign up! Sure, the trio might head more into the genre “electronic” than “indie,” but some songs do have their “indie” moments. They opened for Passion Pit last year, and have gained popularity by being played on the radio… A LOT. Start your CHVRCHES journey with “The Mother We Share". It's a catchy tune that's nice and mellow to start out your day with.
We can’t wait for Bastille’s new indie album. It could drop any moment now. We’re very excited to hear front man Dan Smith work his magic again. You might have heard of this British band. Songs “Pompeii” and “Bad Blood” rapidly climbed the charts two years ago, but we haven’t heard much from them since. Of course you should still keep an eye out for their new album. Let’s hope it’s just as grandiose and rich as their last album, because it sure was a great album to listen to.
If you haven’t heard of American Authors “Best Day of My Life” yet, what are you really doing with your life? We’re joking, of course. “Best Day of My Life” has been played all over the world for months, so we doubt you wouldn’t have heard it. The song sets the mood for all the songs written and performed by American Authors; it’s “clappy,” upbeat and will put you in a great mood. They are based in New York and used to go by “The Blue Pages,” so it’s surprising that American Authors has actually really been around since 2006. If you’re looking for some sweet summer tunes, American Authors is just the ticket for you.
