As the new year blossoms, we all look for new music to fill our headphones and help us through the winter doldrums and blues. So let this guide help you find your new favorite artist that you didn’t even know existed. From an elusive chanteuse by the name of H.E.R. to Toronto’s new crown prince of rap, Jazz Cartier, this list will have music that will carry you through summer.
Kitty Cash
If you like Solange, then you’ll love Kali Uchis
This Colombian-bred, Virginia raised beauty has a smooth, sensual voice that melts effortlessly into each syllable. Her debut album, “Por Vida,” released in 2015 features some of our faves like “Loner,” “Melting,” and “Know What I Want.” After you finish listening to her debut masterpiece, be sure to check Soundcloud for remixes of her songs.
If you like Bryson Tiller, then you’ll love 6LACK
If “Trap’n’B” is your thing, then 6LACK will be your newest heartthrob. This Atlien first arrived on everyone’s radar during over the summer when his debut single “PRBLMS” got over 3 million plays on Soundcloud. Check out his newer singles “Loyal,” “Rules,” and “Luving U” and find yourself immersed in his relaxed, melodic vibes.
If you like Chance the Rapper, then you’ll love Goldlink
The second DMV resident on this list is Goldlink, a rapper who first came to mainstream attention with his 2014 mixtape, “The God Complex.” He’s since signed to RCA records and has acquired Def Jam founder RIck Rubin as a mentor for his debut album “After That, We Didn’t Talk.” His raps blend seamlessly over house-inspired beats, which he named “future bounce” and are endlessly upbeat. Find these songs (“Dark Skin Women,” “Fall In Love,” and “Crew”) and see you’re immune to these vibes!
If you like SZA, then you’ll love H.E.R
Who she is exactly, we may never know. However, we know a couple things about this mystery woman. One of which is that H.E.R. is an acronym for “Having Everything Revealed” and the other things is that her voice is absolutely enchanting. Listen to “Losing,” “Focus,” and “Jungle” from her debut album “H.E.R. Vol. 1” and let’s hope that she’ll bless up with the upcoming Vol.2 soon!
If you like Childish Gambino, then you’ll love Anderson .Paak
First introduced to the world on Dr. Dre’s “Compton” album and then on Kaytranada’s “99.9%” album, Anderson.Paak has used his unique voice to differentiate himself from his peers. He quickly went from underground status to hip-hop darling after a series of high-profile collaborations with artists like Ice Cube, Kendrick Lamar, Marsha Ambrosius, and Eminem. Listen to “Am I Wrong,” “Come Down,” and “The Bird” to see what all the hype is about.
If you like Frank Ocean, then you’ll love Daniel Caesar
Much like the DMV, there’s something about Toronto (thanks, Drake and OVO!). Daniel Caesar’s rise to relevance has been marked by 4 quietly, but critically acclaimed, EPs. Instead of simply being labelled as an R&B singer, Caesar’s music has been likened to rock, soul, folk, and even gospel. “Japanese Denim,” “Get You,” and “Violet” will have you under his spell and wondering why you’re just now hearing of him!
If you like Drake, then you’ll love Jazz Cartier
There must be something in the air in Toronto, because these artists are constantly making and releasing new heat, and Jazz Cartier is no different. We’ve been following Cartier for quite some time, starting with his debut mixtape “Losing Elizabeth,” and now it seems like he’s on the precipice of excellence with his latest mixtape “Hotel Paranoia” that was released in 2016. Synth-heavy beats and surprising samples are mainstays in many of his songs and we love figuring out what song the samples come from! Check out “How We Do It,” “Tempted,” and “Rose Quartz/Like, Crazy” and see if you’re as enamored with “Jacuzzi La Fleur” as we are.
Bonus: If you like any of the above artists, check out BJ The Chicago Kid!
This Chicago-based crooner has the velvety vocals to keep us warm throughout the winter. Listen to “Turnin Me Up,” “Church,” and “Women’s World” and thank us later!
And Voila! There you have it! Our version of "if this then that" new music edition!
Who are you listening to currently? Tell us below!
Dani Washington is a 20-something expat from DC. Aside from finding the coolest new music, she loves great food, and getting lost in new cities. Connect with Dani and learn about her various adventures on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/thatsdani__/) and her blog (https://danienespana.wordpress.com).