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There's a reason we begin each year making resolutions. The start of a year speaks to untold promise, the idea that anything is possible and the future is an unknown being written in real-time. It's for that exact reason we begin every year highlighting a host of artists with that same feeling of unmatched promise. 2025 is just beginning, but it already very much feels like the year to come belongs to them. These are the top 26 artists you need to be watching in 2025. 

2hollis

2hollis is digital catharsis given sonic form. The idiosyncratic artist and producer defies classification, instead blistering forward in his own lane, and in the process, carving out a niche that is all his own. While his singles “jeans” and “crush” saw him garnering impressive traction last year online and beyond, every track from his budding discography paints a portrait of a generation-defining artist. Filtered vocals, breakneck experimental production, and a tangible hype that extends beyond the screen are whisking up a fervor around one of the most exciting artists to emerge in recent memory. 2hollis is the future. -Maxamillion Polo

ADÉLA

Rising pop star ADÉLA may have first showcased her potential while competing on the survival show Dream Academy and in the documentary Pop Star Academy. Yet, she has proven she can be a star in her own right, showing her limitless potential in 2024 with the standout singles "SUPERSCAR" and "HOMEWRECKED." Through her craft, she has created a thought-provoking commentary on what the entertainment industry demands from young talent, bearing her soul as she opened up about her father's affair and mother's betrayal at a young age. Raw and unyielding, it seems ADÉLA is crafting a breakout pop story for the ages, and you better be along for the ride. - Alessandra Rincon

Addison Rae 

There is no argument that Addison Rae has always been ahead of her time, and it finally feels like the world is ready to hear her out. We've been obsessed with Rae ever since her iconic debut EP, AR, and her string of single releases over the last year, including collaborations with fellow favorites Charli xcx and Arca, have solidified Rae as America's pop princess. Whether through her high-pitched scream on Charli xcx's "Von dutch remix featuring Addison rae" or the lingering, harmonic echoes throughout "Diet Pepsi" and "Aquamarine," the soundscape of Rae's music (not to mention her incredible choreography) takes us back to a faded memory of the summer of 2016, in all of its Instagram filters, jean shorts, lipstick stains on mirrors, and alcohol poured into plastic bottles glory. Her songs feel like a sweet secret—almost like sneaking out to meet up with a crush—that are at once soft and bubbly as they are carefree and risk-taking. -Tatum Van Dam

Chezile 

Chezile (pronounced “Che-zill”) skyrocketed to virality with his TikTok hit “Beanie,” charming listeners with its beachy indie-pop energy. The Albuquerque, New Mexico native released his debut project 47 in 2024, unveiling his mastery as a lyricist, weaving tales of life's intricacies into poetic masterpieces. His music transcends mere melodies; it's a profound narrative of his journey, inviting listeners to delve into the depths of his experiences and emotions. In a world craving authenticity, Chezile emerges as a luminary, a beacon of unfiltered expression and artistic integrity. As he continues to captivate hearts and minds, Chezile stands poised to redefine the boundaries of music, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape. - Abby Kenna

Chloe Qisha 

What's not to love about Chloe Qisha? Take all of your favorite pop stars, mix them together, add a bit of cherry red and British wit, and what comes out might sound somewhere along the lines of Qisha. Throughout 2024, the Malaysian-raised, London-based artist established her style and sound through a series of singles, including "I Lied, I'm Sorry," an infectious dancing-around-the-house tune with a chorus that stays stuck in your head, followed by the release of her self-titled, debut EP. Qisha's music feels like a FaceTime catch-up with a best friend—raw, honest, equal parts silly and serious, and shining with personality. The melodies are punchy, the lyricism is clever, and the visuals are a chef's kiss. - Tatum Van Dam

Debbii Dawson 

There’s no better way to explain why Debbii Dawson is one to watch than to simply hear her sing. Her timeless, striking vocal performance and knack for vulnerable songwriting create magic, and it’s only a matter of time before the whole world knows her name. Dawson’s sound bridges dance-pop straight out of ABBA’s era with a voice comparable to classics like Dolly Parton. After releasing her sophomore EP and a slew of singles like the cheeky "Walla Walla" and epic "The Great Magician" in 2024, Dawson is ready to take 2025 by storm. With her upcoming support slot on Role Model’s “No Place Like Tour” tour kicking off in February, she’s bound to reach even more fans with her undeniable talent and shining star power. - Giselle Libby

EQ 

If 2024 taught us anything, it is that electronic music is alive and well, but the artists that push the culture forward aren’t necessarily those playing mainstage at Ultra or getting love from every editorial under the sun. They’re the young creatives making hits using a cracked copy of Ableton Live 10, directing videos for songs with samples that will never be cleared, and breaking new ground by blending regional styles into something uniquely futuristic. Among them is EQ, an Argentinian duo composed of artists and producers Estratosfera and Qiri who currently stand as one of electronic music’s most promising young acts.

With only two songs out, EQ has quickly made a strong impression on fans with their signature blend of abrasive '00s electronica with forward-thinking writing and vision. Though they are self-described as “Utopic and hot pink” and “Euphoric and girl-coded,” what sets EQ apart is the rare sincerity they emit in a genre often plagued by clones and clout chasers. EQ isn’t performing some mysterious charade or fabricating aura, as tracks like “Boytoy” and “EQetamine” are bursting at the seams with a 1-of-1 personality that only the duo can deliver. - Carter Fife

Fcukers 

To put it bluntly, 2024 was a fcuking amazing year for Fcukers. This year fans saw the release of their debut EP Baggy$$, which contains the cult classics "Bon Bon" and "Homie Don’t Shake"—two smashes that make it easy to identify the unstoppable force that is vocalist Shanny Wise and producer and musician Jackson Walker Lewis. Those lucky enough to catch a live performance (LA folks know the pain that was a last-minute cancellation of their October show), can attest to the transcendental nature of Fcukers’ live instrumentation layered among club-driven beats and Shanny’s velvety-smooth vocals. Admittedly, the bar has been raised pretty high for the duo, and 2025 will challenge the two to top their remarkable debut, but they have done nothing if not consistently proven that they are creative masterminds when it comes to live performances. Whether it’s an empty rooftop pool or Paris fashion week, no matter where Fcukers appears, they are almost certain to give fans a show to remember. - Carter Fife

Gigi Perez 

Gigi Perez soared to the top of the charts with the release of “Sailor Song,” a sapphic lullaby that pens a tender love story through vulnerable lyricism, acoustic strings, and hauntingly beautiful harmonies. Real, raw, and radiant, the Florida-based singer-songwriter describes her sound as “sims 2 emo lesbian love story,” and we could not have put it better ourselves. Sonically, Perez feels conventionally indie-folk, and her strength lies within her unabashed storytelling, honestly speaking to her experiences of growing up surrounded by a community that might not fully accept you for who you are. Let Perez’ raspy ballads set the backdrop for your next road trip, escaping reality and driving into nature as the stars soar above. - Tatum Van Dam

The Hellp

The Hellp make music that equally and perfectly slipstreams into sweaty underground parties and bouts of digitzed nostalgia. The sleazy lovechild of Noah Dillon and Chandler Ransom Lucy, the Los Angeles-based band is synthesizing dirty, unapologetic electronic pop for a new generation. Driven by a desire to meld sound and aesthetic, The Hellp’s music bleeds out across multiple dimensions—from their brash amalgamation of far-reaching electronic and indie rock influences to their distinctive, eye-catching music videos and visuals. Their major label debut album, LL, graced the world last year, and with it arrived a polarizing 12-track collection of music discovery in real-time, frenetically swaying between live-or-die electroclash and genuine, wistful what-ifs. - Maxamillion Polo

Junior Varsity

I'm gonna say this now, Junior Varsity is one of my favorite artists of all time. When they debuted with EPs Junior Varsity and SIDE B in 2021 and 2022, an already devoted fanbase received their high-octane punk sound with open arms. In 2024, Junior Varsity overhauled everything, dropping their deal with Warner, adding a new lead vocalist to the lineup, and ultimately changing their sound with their latest EP, My Star, released in November. It's safe to say that Junior Varsity continues its legacy of doing the unexpected and thriving because of it. If anything, all the pieces are in the right place for the newly minted trio, and the ball is in the rest of the world's court. - Alessandra Rincon

KATSEYE 

Girl groups are the backbone of pop music, yet Katseye, formed through the 2023 reality show Dream Academy, is ready to redefine the genre entirely. The sextet, comprised of members Sophia, Manon, Daniela, Lara, Megan, and Yoonchae, has become an industry obsession seemingly overnight. With razor-sharp choreography, matching outfits, and a soulful pop-R&B catalog, they’re girl’s girls who make sure to let each other shine. “Touch” and its accompanying TikTok dance exploded online, earning 211 million streams and counting on Spotify. Representing across the Philippines, South Korea, Switzerland, and the United States, their unity amongst so many contrasting palettes is one of the most unique attributes. Their multi-nationality lends to one cohesive sound, challenging the girl group mold by bridging K-pop with American customs. - Jazmin Kylene

Lexa Gates

To promote her 2024 album Elite Vessel, Queens native Lexa Gates locked herself inside a glass box in NYC’s Union Square while fans and passersby watched for ten hours. Ironically, Lexa Gates is also perhaps the hardest artist to place in a box musically on this list, as many of her tracks blend classic soul and jazz stylistics with East Coast hip-hop and an almost spoken word delivery. From the downtempo bliss of the Alé Araya-assisted “Lately, Nothing” to the heart-wrenching tenderness of album-closer “Lover,” Gates occupies the sacred middle ground between Sade, Amy Winehouse, and Lil Kim. The result is something surprisingly unique, an amalgamation of sounds that complement each other in such a mutualistic way that every track feels like another look into an artist who is both coming-of-age and also wise beyond her years. Perfect for a spirited late night out and a serene early morning, Gates is an artist you need to familiarize yourself with in the new year; all you need to do is watch. - Carter Fife

Ley Soul 

Ley Soul is young and bright-eyed, infusing her childlike whimsy into a soulful catalog that is sonically far beyond her years. “Intergalactic Janet,” a hypnotic ride reminiscent of early Erykah Badu, was somehow her introduction to the world, garnering over 23 million streams as listeners fell devastated to learn the 19-year-old songstress was only just getting started. Ley Soul has the ability to shove entire galaxies into songs that never spill over three minutes, a deeply matured voice that contrasts her wondrous, doe eyes. Juggling college, adolescence, and a starving audience mesmerized by the ancestral talent she’s tapped into, Ley Soul is soul and indie R&B’s most unique and coveted rising act. -Jazmin Kylene

Lola Young 

"I want to be me, is that not allowed?" In this day in age, authenticity is rare to stumble upon, and Lola Young is one of few artists whose sound, style, and attitude towards the world feel like an absolute breath of fresh air. The South Londoner combines powerful vocals with lyricism that might as well double as a punch to the gut, belting with such clear passion that we feel lucky to witness its effect. Fusing together alternative production with soulful melodies and heavy basslines to create a sound that is completely her own, Young's 2024 album This Wasn't Meant For You Anyway, which includes breakout single "Messy," explores the intoxicating situations and relationships you encounter through your twenties, whether romantic, familial, or platonic. At only 24 years old, Young has the world at her fingertips. - Tatum Van Dam

Malcolm Todd

Since his debut in 2022, Malcolm Todd has been a rising star in the indie scene. As a musician and lyricist, Todd has showcased his talents through multiple EPs and his freshly debuted album Sweet Boy. The record, which has since tripled its monthly listening on Spotify, is a blend of relaxed delivery that brings an infectious energy to otherwise vulnerable lyrics. The acoustic guitar loops and catchy melodies became a signature in this record, especially on songs like "4Me 4Me," "Sweet Boy," and "Ladygirl." He ended the year on an even stronger note with his last release, "Chest Pain (I Love)," a striking blend of vulnerability and groove that dives into the emotional rollercoaster of love and heartbreak, encapsulating the visceral ache of longing and connection through Todd's deeply emotional lyrics. - Alessandra Rincon

Mk. Gee 

Mk.gee made waves in 2024 by shattering the concept of the so-called “free thinker.” You love him, your neighbor loves him— does this make him the great unifier that 2025 somehow already desperately needs? Perhaps, but that’s too heavy a burden to place on someone with the unparalleled aura that Mk.gee possesses. Following the release of his 2024 opus Two Star and the Dream Police, which likely ended up dominating your EOY lists with bangers like “Alesis” and “Candy,” the future of Mk.gee is similar to that of our great nation; uncertain. Unlike the US, however, there are things to potentially look forward to as fans satiate themselves with the copium of a rumored Bieber collab and the carrot-on-a-stick that is the promise of new music on the horizon. Eagle-eyed fans have also started speculating that Mk.gee and Sabrina Carpenter might actually be the same person, which might not be true, but what we all can certainly agree on is how undeniably fantastic 2024 was for our young hero. If the past year was a harbinger of things to come, then few acts are as deserving of your eyes and ears as Mk.gee. - Carter Fife

MOIO 

Like sunlight cascading through dancing branches, Dublin-based artist MOIO is a euphoric glimmer of hope. His music is R&B and indie pop’s lovechild, the kind of sound only an innate talent and ancestral passion for the art can birth. For fans of Daniel Caesar and Bakar, MOIO offers a similar flavor palette. With soulful vocals over silky, contemporary landscapes, he’s garnered a devoted fan base eager to see him gain the recognition he’s earned as a singer, instrumentalist, and producer. His latest single “Moments,” the moody, guitar-driven track that exploded across playlists, has left many anticipating what the Chamomile Club member could curate next. Already charting at 1.3 million monthly Spotify listeners, it’s clear MOIO now has many mouths to feed. - Jazmin Kylene

Nxdia

Throughout 2024, Manchester's Nxdia firmly cemented their status as one of the year's most compelling ones to watch. Their January single "She Likes A Boy" quickly blew up online, with its angst-ridden, anthemic chorus proving to be exceptionally addictive to contemporary pop-punk fans. Then in April, they added fuel to the fire with their cult classic-inspired release "Jennifer's Body," a bilingual tribute to the queer cult film that explores obsessive, possessive attraction in an addictively tight, sub-two-minute banger. And THEN, to top it all off, they ended the year with another banger, the pulsating and grimy "Feel Anything." Nxdia's music in 2024, armed with irresistible punk-infused energy, fearlessly explored the complexities of human emotion and connection, backed with addictive and amped-up pop-rock production. - Alessandra Rincon

Sawyer Hill

Arkansas-based Sawyer Hill melts generationally transcendental vocals into alternative anthems, cocktailing influences from '90s grunge, 2000s pop, and essential 2010s indie rock. Molding a dedicated fan base from a viral video clip, it was a live performance of Hill’s sophomore single, “Look At The Time,” that catapulted the artist’s now-placement in the Spotify U.S. Viral Charts. Now celebrating his latest releases via AWAL / (dis)harmony and a 43-date international tour, Hill continues to blossom into his own lane of Southern-twinged indie rock. - Abby Kenna

Sienna Spiro

Starting her songwriting journey at just 10 years old, it's no surprise that Sienna Spiro has come into her own with hits like "MAYBE." boasting over 23 million streams. Now, with heavy hitters like "BACK TO BLOND" and BUTTERFLY EFFECT" under her belt, both of which will be featured on her debut EP SWIM NOW, SINK LATER, out February 21, 19-year-old London-based singer-songwriter is proving that she's got the makings of being the next big thing in pop. With her huge voice and heartbreaking lyricism, we look forward to crying our eyes out to more of her music in 2025. - Alessandra Rincon

sombr

If you’ve ever been sad and you’ve ever been a girl, then sombr has written a song for you. And while Sombr has been praised for his #sadgirl anthems, his emotive, indie music speaks to the universal experience of love, loss, and coming of age through it all, regardless of gender or age. While first experiencing breakthrough success with his single “caroline,” sombr has since gone on to release a number of singles and projects that have gone on to refine and elevate his tender brand of timeless indie music. Most recently, his latest single, “back to friends,” has found a foothold online, serving as yet another heartbreaking example of sombr’s emotionally-driven songwriting. - Maxamillion Polo

$wag Nightmare

Chances are you likely know Carrington from one of his many viral videos, but the social media personality has also been quietly cooking up a handful of similar internet-shattering singles under the moniker of $wag Nightmare. While he may only have a handful of singles out at the time of writing—”NIGHT PHONE,” “Clown $how,” and most recently, “$oUL EATER,” there’s already a palpable hype surrounding the rising artist. Drawing inspiration from early Soundcloud rap and modern alternative, $wag Nightmare’s music plays out like the sonic equivalent of a manic spiral, shifting between euphoric highs and ego-shattering lows. It’s dark, intoxicating, perfectly rough around the edges, and just the thing you need to be keeping your eye on this year and beyond. - Maxamillion Polo

Swimming Paul 

Few artists feel like a mystery more than electronic producer and DJ, Swimming Paul. While he has amassed millions of listeners, his artistry prioritizes just that: the people who listen and dance to his music. Using both imagery and sounds from friends and fans, Swimming Paul creates an homage to life’s mundane moments, intertwining vocal samples with melancholic piano melodies to create emotionally resonant, pulsating club tracks. The summertime saw the release of Swimming Paul’s debut album, Smiling Through The Pain. The project flows like a DJ set, with Swimming Paul drifting somewhere between the club and the afters, creating an intimately nostalgic atmosphere to get lost in. - Tatum Van Dam

tg.blk 

With a platinum blonde fro and brash set of acrylics, tg.blk has no interest in muting herself for anyone else’s comfort. The queer Kenyan is electrifying hip hop with her palpable eccentricity, vibrantly color-graded visuals, and immersive musical catalog. Weaving through singing and rapping, her last EP IT’S NOT THAT DEEP is a kaleidoscopic venture through alternative rap and infectious dance landscapes, paired with sharp-witted lyricism. Being born and raised in Mombasa, she uses her colorful cultural heritage as a tool, as there aren’t many artists you can compare the 26-year-old to. Nearing one million monthly listeners on Spotify since her 2021 explosion, tg.blk is unequivocally next up. - Jazmin Kylene

Willow Avalon 

Willow Avalon is bringing true country to the pop music scene. Born in a small town in rural Georgia, Avalon spent much of her upbringing working on old cars, playing music at her local Baptist Church, and self-admittedly “breaking as many bones as possible.” Her music aches with this homegrown spirit, telling ancestral tales in modern tones. Further, Avalon’s voice was made for telling stories, dwelling in the vein of Dolly Parton with her country twang and warm vibrato. Her debut album Southern Belle Raisin’ Hell says it all; Avalon is staying true to her roots, unapologetically, and music is better off for it. - Abby Kenna