21 artists to keep an eye on in 2021

Victoria Monét is far from a new artist by any means, as she has been releasing music since 2014. However, she’s notably known as one of the most sought-out songwriters in the game, with writing credits for artists such as Fifth Harmony, Chloe x Halle, Brandy, and her frequent collaborator Ariana Grande. However, Monét’s latest EP, “Jaguar” shows the singer truly coming into her own as a breakthrough artist in addition to her pen game with singles such as “Moment” and “Touch Me.” She's set to release parts two and three to "Jaguar" as fans are anticipating the full-length album. 

West Coast hip-hop is always trying to bring something new to the table—that’s why newcomer Blxst stands out. Over the past few years, he’s been known to produce tracks for artists like Kendrick Lamar and YG, however, now he’s ready to shine at the forefront. On his latest EP, “No Love Lost,” Blxst blends the worlds of hip-hop and R&B while shining a light on his upbringing in Los Angeles.

Over the past few years, we’ve seen more artists keep their identities anonymous, typically because they want fans to simply fall in love with the music, all while still having somewhat of a normal life. Buzzing pop-R&B duo Emotional Oranges are doing just that as they take elements from ‘80s soul grooves and house music while bringing it into contemporary times. Their latest single “All That," a funky joint collaboration with rapper Channel Tres is set to be on their upcoming EP.

Some fans took notice of GIVĒON back in 2019 when he released his single, “Like I Want You.” He then received a major cosign from Drake when he was featured on the rapper’s single “Chicago Freestyle.” The baritone vocals and vintage style from a young gentleman immediately draws a listener in. GIVĒON went on to release two EPs, “Take Time” and “When It’s All Said and Done," the latter which featured a smooth collaboration with Snoh Aalegra. GIVĒON has the type of voice that R&B listeners don't hear often, but absolutely appreciate.

Rauw Alejandro has been releasing music since 2014 but started gaining a lot more recognition in recent years by working with artists like Ozuna and Ir-Sais. He landed his first number one hit when his single "Tattoo (remix)" peaked on Billboard's Latin Airplay charts. On his debut album "Afrodisíaco," Alejandro is ready to prove his love for R&B in the reggaeton world. The album enlists a number of star-studded features including Anuel AA, Myke Towers, and J Balvin, therefore he's among good company to perfect his own sound. 

Lonr. may not be a household name in the R&B world just yet, but he’s already secured a couple of Grammy Awards due to his songwriting contributions with rising star H.E.R. Earlier this year, he teamed up with the fellow singer again on his smooth single, “Make The Most.” Their vocals layer each other tremendously as they croon about making the most time with the one you love because tomorrow is never promised. Lonr.'s 2020 debut EP, "Land of Nothing Real" showcases how he's ready to make his mark in the R&B and hip-hop worlds.

Eclectic trio Radiant Children first came onto the scene in 2018 with their debut single, “Life’s a B***h.” However, they recently released their debut album “There’s Only Being Yourself" which blends pop, soul, and jazz. The group's genre-blending sound is evident on songs like the disco-inspired "Pretend" and the funky basslines of "Mariposa." Fans can only hope Radiant Children will continue bringing feel-good music for years to come. 

For artists looking to get a break in the industry, sometimes songwriting is one way to do it. That’s what happened with KIRBY, known for penning hits like Beyonce’s “Die With You” and Ariana Grande’s “Break Your Heart Right Back.” Her seven-track EP “Sis” beams with soul and funk that artists like Erykah Badu and Bootsy Collins would be proud of.

Spanish singer María José Llergo is helping to renew flamenco for a contemporary audience while honoring its traditional roots. Her seven-track EP, "Sanación" was inspired by her family and upbringing in Córdoba, as she sings about love, revolution, and injustices. María's vocals are angelic, transcendent, and dreamy, leaving listeners to want to hear more from her. 

Over the years, soulful pianist and singer Reuben James has collaborated with artists such as Joni Mitchell and Elton John, while touring with the likes of Sam Smith. He’s ready to showcase to the world his love for soul, jazz, and R&B. His latest EP “Slow Down” features collaborations with artists like Col3trane, Jay Prince, and Kevin Garrett. The project showcases his jazz roots at its core while bringing the sound into a new age. 

While many songs on TikTok get traction due to dance challenges, sometimes an artist’s original music goes viral by surprise. That’s exactly what happened with rising country star Priscilla Block. While her fun-loving and empowerment anthem “Thick Thighs” went viral, it was her single “Just About Over You” that went to No. 1 on the iTunes charts, helping her land a record deal.

The Detroit rap scene has been emerging over the last couple of years and 42 Dugg is the city's latest newcomer. After getting signed to label imprints under Yo Gotti and Lil Baby, the young MC started gaining more mainstream status due to his features on Lil Baby's songs "Grace" and "We Paid." While these tracks piqued fans' interest in 42 Dugg's mixtape discography, he's also been featured with artists including Meek Mill, Big Sean, and Marshmello. 

U.K. singer Joesef first made waves in 2019 with his EP, “Play Me Something Nice.” Between his blends of pop and soul, he’s been compared to the likes of Sam Smith and Amy Winehouse. While Joesef seems to be a fan of combining genres, it’s evident that love and heartbreak are the core of his art, themes that are evident on his latest EP “Does It Make You Feel Good?”

13-year-old singer Keedron Bryant made headlines when he posted his emotional song “I Just Wanna Live” in response to the killing of George Floyd by police. He may be young, but his broad and powerful voice gave the world a song that showcases the emotions of being young and Black in today's America. The song helped Bryant link a deal with Warner Music Records and went on to be named the Associated Press' song of the year. 

Holly Humberstone started gaining traction after performing at Glastonbury Festival in 2019 and opening up for Lewis Capaldi on tour. In 2020, she released her EP “Falling Asleep At The Wheel” featuring ballads like "Deep End" and the midtempo "Overkill." Holly's soft tone and melodies are perfect for the indie-pop world that is sure to win more fans over. 

In 2019, Tiana Major9 started making waves after being on projects alongside Stormzy and the "Queen & Slim" soundtrack. Anyone who listens to Tiana's music can tell how much she is a student of jazz, reggae, and neo-soul greats. After signing a deal with Motown Records, she released her EP, “At Sixes and Sevens,” to rave reviews.

While some artists are discovered on platforms like YouTube, other artists are being noticed on TikTok. That’s exactly what happened to Robyn Ottolini when she posted a snippet of her song “F-150” and it took off with a life of its own. While the song started gaining traction on Spotify, it helped Ottolini land a record deal with Warner Music Nashville. Ottolini is sure to be a new face among country's rising stars.

Rapper and singer 24kGoldn first caught steam when he released his 2019 single, “Valentino,” a song that has reached over 100 million plays on Spotify. In 2020, he was named a member of XXL’s 2020 Freshman Class, a list that rising rappers are voted to as the next up in hip-hop. Along with “Valentino,” one of his newest singles “Mood” has become a viral TikTok hit. While he's already worked with artists like DaBaby and Justin Bieber, 24kGoldn is set to release his album in 2021.

Mia Gladstone first came on to the scene in 2019 with her debut EP, “Grow.” In 2020, she started collaborating with artists like Tobi Lou, Flwr Chyld, and Elujay. Her latest EP “CYCLE/S” is a five-track project blending alternative rock and '80s pop, making it a dreamy and fun-loving project to hear on a drive or at a party. Pressing play on tracks like "Change The Channel" and "Food" can put anyone in a better mood.

As women continue to prove their prowess in hip-hop, one of the genre's buzzing artists is Flo Milli. Her 2019 single "Beef FloMix" was a viral sensation among TikTok users and she eventually signed a deal with RCA Records. Flo Milli's debut mixtape, "Ho, Why Is You Here ?" garnered rave reviews and was placed on a number of publication best year-end album lists including NPR and Rolling Stone.  

Aussie singer Tones and I first came onto the scene in 2019 with her debut EP, "The Kids Are Coming." By November 2020, the project's breakout single "Dance Monkey" became the most Shazamed song of all time. As the song continues to break records, Tones and I set to release her debut album in a matter of months.