Spindle SPOTLIGHT: Artists On The Rise In 2021
With talent ranging between a plethora of genres here are our top artists to look out for this year…
Alfie Templeman
Genre: Alternative/Indie
Early Milestone: At just 17-years-old Templeman has released 4 EP’s.
Standout Track: ‘Things I Thought Were Mine’
At just 17-years-old Alfie Templeman is making massive waves within the alternative/indie sphere. 2020 has been a breakthrough year for Bedfordshire talent. From releasing his hit record Happiness In Liquid Form to being featured in FIFA 21, Alfie Templeman is quickly becoming a household name.
Ayra Starr
Genre: Afro-Pop/R&B
Early Milestone: Signed to Africa’s No. 1 record label, Mavin Records.
Standout Track: ‘Away’
Ayra Star is an 18-year-old GEN Z songstress that is steadily making her mark in the music world. Born and raised between Lagos and Cotonou, the songstress gravitated towards the arts, specifically music and fashion. After uploading a series of impressive covers to Instagram, the young talent was soon discovered by music legend Don Jazzy. With her kaleidoscope of influences, Ayra Star is set to becoming West Africa’s next global teen superstar.
Baby Rose
Genre: R&B/Soul
Early Milestone: Performed on NPR Tiny Desk twice
Standout Track: ‘Show You’
Filled with soul, and backed by a stunning voice Baby Rose is an R&B artist that needs to be on your radar. Born in Washington DC, Baby Rose’s childhood was full of an array of musical influences. From her father filling the household with acid jazz and funk music to her mother managing a local rapper, there was no musical stone unturned. Fast forward to 2021 and Baby Rose has set herself up to become R&B royalty. Her debut project To Myself has become a breakthrough hit, with her track ‘Show You’ featured in the hit series Insecure.
BERWYN
Genre: R&B/Soul
Early Milestone: Collaborated with Headie One and Fred again..
Standout Track: ‘VINYL’
If you’re looking for a mix of Frank Ocean and James Blake then London-based artist BERWYN is for you. Born and raised in Trinidad the singer-songwriter was first introduced to music by his father, who used to be a DJ. Having an interest in music at an early age, BERWYN wasted no time in honing his craft. The young talent can play the piano, the guitar, the drums and the violin. Describing himself as being made up of “50% water 50% music” BERWYN has steadily crafted heartfelt and relatable music for the R&B soul generation.
Biig Piig
Genre: Lo-Fi/Alternative
Early Milestone: Went viral with her hit track Vice City.
Standout Track: ‘Don’t Turn Around’
This past year has proved to be a breakthrough for Irish alternative pop artist Biig Piig. Throughout 2020, the young talent garnered over 50 million streams and has gained recognition from some of music’s biggest heavyweights like Billie Eilish and Clario. Her standout track ‘Don’t Turn Around’ became a critical success becoming her first playlisted record on BBC Radio 1. With her smooth vocals and innovative singles, Biig Piig is an artist that’s breathing new life into the pop music sphere.
bLAck pARty
Genre: R&B/Soul
Early Milestone: His music has been featured in HBO’s Insecure and FX’s Atlanta.
Standout Track: ‘Bloom’
bLAck pARty is an emotive artist whose music transcends the different layers of R&B. Hailing from Los Angeles, California, the rising talent first got his start in the music sphere by playing in his middle schools marching band. After a stint in a rock band during his senior year of high school the singer-songwriter shifted his focus on to producing and songwriting. bLAck pARty didn’t stay away from creating his own music which he self-described as “tropical funk”. Since signing to Childish Gambino’s Royalty collective, the innovative artist has released beautiful records that soothes the soul and clears the mind.
Bree Runway
Genre: Alterntative Pop
Early Milestone: Collaborated with Hip Hop legend Missy Elliot.
Standout Track: ‘ATM’
Bree Runway is an artist that is unapologetic, fiery and ready to take the music industry by storm! The emerging songstress is raising the bar with her insane vocals, experience with filmmaking, songwriting, and more! Hailing from Hackney, Runway has performed with the band Years and Years and staged solo gigs, gaining a dedicated fan base in the process. With the release of her debut mixtape 2000AND4EVA, and collaborating with hip hop legend Missy Elliot, it can be said that her upward trajectory shows no signs of stopping.
Chinchilla
Genre: Alternative Pop
Early Milestone: Has been nominated for two Estonian Music Awards.
Standout Track: ‘You’re Kinda… [Heads]’
CHINCHILLA is a London-based emerging artist that’s capturing the attention of music listeners with her debut EP ‘Awakening.‘ The alluring project details a journey of self-realization and touches on topics like female empowerment, sexuality, body positivity, and more. Her unapologetic aura has been a constant presence in her music since her first release in 2019. Over the course of a year, CHINCHILLA has earned over 9.5 million streams, performed at some of the UK’s most popular festivals, and has been nominated for two Estonian Music Awards. With her dynamic new EP making the rounds, and more new music down the pipeline CHINCHILLA is showing no signs of slowing down her 2021 takeover.
DC
Genre: Hip Hop
Early Milestone: Has toured with J Hus
Standout Track: ‘Neighbourhood’
With a fiery flow and incredible Rap/Grime sound, DC is an artist that is set to make waves throughout 2021. His Gleamin Freestyle catapulted DC to fame. Since then he has amassed an impressive portfolio of singles and collaborating with some of UK Hip Hop’s biggest artists. With a new project in the works, DC is setting up his path to success one track at a time.
ENNY
Genre: Hip Hop
Early Milestone: Collaborated with Jorja Smith for Peng Black Girls remix
Standout Track: ‘Peng Black Girls’
Meaningful, iconic, and simply talented are three ways to describe London MC ENNY. Hailing from South East London, the rising artist has been honing her craft over the years with Hackney-based collective Root 37. Since debuting onto the scene, the MC has gained recognition for her sleek flows and her impressive penmanship. Fresh off the success of her empowering ‘Peng Black Girls’ track, ENNY is quickly becoming one of the UK’s brightest rappers.
Flo Milli
Genre: Hip Hop
Early Milestone: Peaked at number 2 on the Spotify US Viral 50
Standout Track: ‘In The Party’
If you need an artist that will hype you up and get the party started then Flo Milli is the artist you need. Her unapologetic and fiery attitude is are two of the many reasons why she’s an artist to watch. The MC first got her big break with her catchy track ‘Beef FloMix’, which became a viral sensation. The rappers follow up singles, In The Party, Weak and My Attitude helped cement Flo Milli as a heavyweight in the Hip Hop sphere. With over 125 million streams worldwide, the release of her debut mixtape ‘Ho, why is you here ?’ Flo Milli is ready to show out all 2021!
Girl in Red
Genre: Indie Alternative
Early Milestone: Wrote and performed on the soundtrack for the film The Turning.
Standout Track: ‘bad idea!’
Poised as Norway’s “brightest new light” girl in red is an indie artist that needs to be on your radar. Since releasing her first song in 2018 the rising artist has quickly gained a reputation as a talented singer-songwriter. Wearing her vulnerabilities on her sleeve, each girl in red track symbolises a feeling or moment that many music lovers may relate to. From discussing LGBTQ+ issues to diving into topics surrounding mental health girl in red is an honest artist that is making a difference with her catalogue of tracks.
Giveon
Genre: R&B/Soul
Early Milestone: Featured on Drake’s ‘Chicago Freestyle’.
Standout Track: ‘Stuck On You’
Passionate, breathtaking, heartbreaking and honest are four ways to describe Giveon and his impactful music. Hailing from Long Beach, California Giveon has turned the R&B world upside down with his breathtaking voice and emotive lyrics. His talents have been noticed by music lovers and artists alike, with Drake even featuring the young talent on his hit track ‘Chicago Freestyle’. Between supporting Snoh Aalegra on her headline tour to earning millions of streams Giveon is an artist that will be thriving all 2021.
Griff
Genre: Pop
Early Milestone: Nominated for an Ivor Novello Award.
Standout Track: ‘Good Stuff’
Hailed by Taylor Swift and featured in Disney’s most successful holiday campaigns, Griff is a rising pop artist that you need to look out for. Born and raised in the UK to a Chinese and Jamaican household, the talented artist first began to make music by borrowing her brothers Logic. Keeping her musical life a secret from her schoolmates, Griff honed her craft and created her hit singles ‘Eternal Flame’, ‘Mirror Talk’, and ‘Didn’t Break It Enough’. With her latest track ‘Black Hole’ making the rounds and more music to come, Griff future is sure to shine brightly.
Holly Humberstone
Genre: Alternative Pop
Early Milestone: Went on an extended support tour for Lewis Capaldi
Standout Track: ‘Deep End’
If you haven’t heard the whispers of Holly Humberstone then 2021 will certainly change that. Having only debuted last year, the talented songstress has already garnered over 65 million streams on Spotify alone. Citing HAIM, Phoebe Bridgers, Lorde and Damien Rice as influences, Humberstone has created music that is honest, topical and addictive. 2021 is looking to be an even better year for the talented artist.
Hope Tala
Genre: Lofi/R&B
Early Milestone: Has gained over 20 million streams independently.
Standout Track: ‘Cherries’
UK talent Hope Tala is everything you want in an Alternative R&B artist. Backed by clever lyrics and a heart-gripping sound the young songstress has been steadily gaining attention from some of the industry’s biggest tastemakers. Since making her debut in 2018 the singer-songwriter has collaborated with popular hip hop artist Aminè and released three critically acclaimed EP’s including her latest Girl Eats Sun. Speaking on her songs and what she hopes to achieve she states: “I just want people to make my songs their own. If you connect with it in any way, that’s cool with me. I always felt destined to make music. It’s my duty to see this through.”
Ivorian Doll
Genre: Hip Hop
Early Milestone: Her video for Rumours has garnered over 5 million views.
Standout Track: ‘Rumours’
Ivorian Doll is breaking barriers and showing out as one of UK Hip Hop’s hottest acts. Born in German but London raised, the MC first got her start in the industry as successful YouTube personality. It wasn’t until she stepped out with collaborator Abigail Asante as rapping duo Abigail x Ivorian Doll that the MC set fire to the music world. With multiple singles and collaborations under her belt and more to come, Ivorian Doll is proving to be one of the most talented MC’s in the game.
JVCK JAMES
Genre: R&B Soul
Early Milestone: Performed at the BET Soul Train Awards
Standout Track: ‘Wave’
JVCK JAMES has been setting the R&B world on fire with is soulfully rich music. Based in London, JAMES has been grinding non-stop for the past 18 months, creating addictive new music, securing supporting performances with Ella Mai and Mahalia and headling a sold-out show at Omeara in London. With his new EP ‘JOYRIDE’ set to release this month, JVCK JAMES is wasting no time to on his music journey.
Kalpee
Genre: R&B Soul
Early Milestone: Teamed up with BooHooMAN for their ‘Feelgood Friday’ live sessions.
Standout Track: ‘No One’
Emerging artist Kalpee is ready to take the music world by storm. The rising talent first got his start performing with his father at calypso competitions and national music festivals. As the years went on Kalpee became a frontman for a cover band and toured throughout Trinidad and Tobago. After graduating from university he took his talents to the UK to hone his craft and release music. Since his debut, the Trinbagonian artist has created a unique R&B sound that blends the chill sounds of reggae and smooth stylings of calypso. With over 25 million streams and growing fanbase, Kalpee star is showing no signs of dimming.
Kamal
Genre: Lofi/R&B
Early Milestone: His tracks have seen the support from Radio 1.
Standout Track: ‘blue’
Stepping onto the scene in the summer of 2019 Kamal. is a rising artist with an alluring story to tell. The London-based artist wowed music listeners with his two-track project ‘two missed calls’. Infused with a Lofi/Soul sound Kamal. has garnered nearly 3 million combined streams. We can’t wait to see where 2021 takes this talented young artist.
Meet Me @ The Altar
Genre: Pop Punk
Early Milestone: Received Halsey’s Black Creators Fund.
Standout Track: ‘Caught In The Middle’
Recently signed to Fueled By Ramen, which is also home to Paramore and Panic At The Disco, Meet Me @ The Altar is the new Pop-Punk group of your dreams! Comprising of singer Edith Johnson, guitarist/bassist Téa Campbell and drummer Ada Juarez, the rising band first met on YouTube. Spreading across three different states the three honed their craft and created their signature sound and style. Fast forward to 2021 and the band is quickly making a name for themselves with their latest single ‘Garden’ making the rounds and being a voice for Queer POC’s. Make sure to keep your eyes on this fiery new band!
Pa Salieu
Genre: Hip Hop
Early Milestone: Received three TOTW’s at Radio 1
Standout Track: Informa
Since coming onto the scene Pa Salieu has garnered critical success from some of the music worlds biggest tastemakers. The multi-faceted artist innovative music mixes the realms and sectors of hip hop which has established himself as one of Britain’s brightest young talents. We are certain that 2021 is poised to be Pa Salieu biggest year yet.
Sam DeRosa
Genre: Pop
Early Milestone: Co-wrote lovelytheband’s ’emotion’ and ‘broken’, with the latter becoming the longest-running song in rock radio history.
Standout Track: The Medicine
Since her performance on SONGLAND in late 2019, Sam DeRosa has been keeping busy through the pandemic, much like her peers in the music and entertainment industry. 2020 brought with it writing credits on one of the world’s biggest songs of the year (Dixie D’Amelio’s ‘Be Happy’) and the release of DeRosa’s debut EP. From playing small gigs to making her television debut, Sam DeRosa’s story speaks as a testament to her perseverance and resilience and inspires others dreaming to break into the industry to never quit.
SNARL
Genre: Electronic
Early Milestone: Collaborated with Alice Chater for her Two Of Us remix
Standout Track: ‘I’m Live’
Emerging talent SNARL is taking over the electronic music world with his debut single ‘Ibiza’ and he’s only – 17-years-old. Born and raised in Essex, the young talent immersed himself in the music world with the help of the many different social media platforms. Teaching himself how to produce using the internet, the rising star secured an innovative sound that mixes the house and dubstep genres. With an EP on the way, SNARL has come a long way since creating his first mixes from his bedroom.
Tai Verdes
Genre: R&B/Pop
Early Milestone: Became a viral sensation with his track ‘Stuck In The Middle on the popular social media app TikTok
Standout Track: ‘Stuck In The Middle Pt. II’ ft. Kiana Ledè
Tai Verdes is a GEN Z artist that’s is gearing up for a busy 2021. After his track Stuck In The Middle became a viral hit on TikTok the alternative pop artist has been on a nonstop rollercoaster ride. Since gaining traction on his addictive single Verdes has stepped into the studio to collaborate with Kiana Ledè for Pt. II of Stuck In The Middle and has completed his very first EP. Citing Dominic Fike, Harry Styles and Brent Faiyaz as his top three influences, Tai Verdes is ready to show the world what he has to offer.
Tyler Shaw
Genre: Pop
Early Milestone: Earned a 2019 JUNO Award nomination for ‘Pop Album of the Year’
Standout Track: ‘When You’re Home’
Tyler Shaw is a multi-faceted force to be reckoned with! A platinum-selling artist, producer and actor, the Canadian newcomer has been holed up in the studio adding the finishing touches to a new album, which is set for a spring 2021 release. From touring with Shawn Mendes and Selena Gomez to having his track ‘With You’ get a Double Platinum certification, Tyler Shaw is poised for music stardom in 2021.
VanJess
Genre: R&B/Soul
Early Milestone: The two have previously worked with KAYTRANADA, Ari Lennox, and Xavier Omår
Standout Track: Slow Down
Sister duo VanJess is ready unless some rich R&B goodness into the music world. First coming on the scene in 2018 the two have swiftly gained recognition for their sultry vocals and unforgettable singles. VanJess’s music catalogue captures the essence of 90’s R&B while also spinning it for GEN Z audiences. It’s only up from here for VanJess.
Make sure to check out all of Spindle SPOTLIGHT artists on our Spotify playlist below…
