SZA
If you haven’t heard of her yet you surely will soon. Fresh off her Grammy’s performance and announcement of her tour with Kendrick Lamar, SZA has had a year full of success and traction. Her much anticipated debut album, Ctrl, was released in June 2017 and debuted at number three on the US Billboard 200 chart. Later in 2017 she released a music video for “The Weekend”, which was directed by Solange Knowles. Receiving five Grammy nominations with just her first album seems to indicate that this year will bring even more success.
Aminé
You may know him by his viral hit “Caroline”, but there’s a lot more to this artist than a one-hit wonder. His cheeky raps and catchy melodies are infectious and he followed up “Caroline” by releasing his debut album Good for You in July. The album debuted at 31 on US Billboard 200. One of the singles off the album, “Heebiejeebies”, featured fellow artist Kehlani. Aminé’s quirky and fresh rap style will be something to watch and listen for in the new year.
The Japanese House
This is a solo project consisting of UK-based artist, Amber Bain. The Japanese House first gained exposure when she opened for The 1975 on their tour. In fact, George Daniel, the drummer for the band, has helped to produce her EPs that are out so far. The natural, haunting sound of Bain’s music is fueled by her heavy use of the synthesizer. The release of four EPs, Pools to Bathe In, Clean, Swim Against the Tide, and Saw You in a Dream seem to indicate the release of a highly anticipated debut album this year.
Oh Wonder
Pop-alt duo, Oh Wonder, consisting of Josephine Vander Gucht and Anthony West, released their second album in July 2017. After their self-titled debut album they saw major indie success and went on to perform at festivals like Bonnaroo and Firefly in 2016. 2017 showed them even more touring success as they headed out on a world tour for their most recent album Ultralife. Riding this wave of success Oh Wonder is sure to deliver a thrilling third album in the coming year.
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