In an era dominated by algorithms and data-driven metrics, it’s easy to overlook the raw talent and unique creativity that define truly exceptional artists. While numbers—such as social media followers and streaming counts – provide a quantifiable measure of popularity, they often fail to capture the essence of an artist’s ingenuity and the emotional impact of their work. At our core, we believe in celebrating artists for their talent and the authentic connection they foster with their audience, rather than merely their numerical success. Without further ado, we are back with the monthly lineup where we highlight 6 up and coming artists that have been catching our attention.

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LULU.

Hometown: South East London, UK

Recommended Tracks: “Let Go,” “Home,” “Yesterdays”

Spotify Monthlies: 39,823

Afro soul is embracing a new talent to its roster with the 21-year-old British-Nigerian singer/songwriter LULU. Her latest project Dear Disoriented Soul is settling roots into this generation of contemporary soul, while connecting elements of afrobeats and R&B. LULU.’s voice settles any ease, inviting listeners to sway with each verse. Her writing is her truth telling, giving her listeners an introduction to who LULU. is. This debut EP is an ode to intimacy. “Home,” a personal favorite, showcasing the signature afrobeat style alongside the song's tranquil nature. “Home” has its own flair, the track has a delicate looping piano chord that echoes LULU.’s tender voice throughout the song.

In a recent collaboration, LULU. has joined forces with South African acapella group, The Joy, on the track "Yesterdays." The Joy, recognized for their recent guest appearance at this year's Coachella alongside Doja Cat, adds another layer of depth to LULU.'s artistry. With a wisdom that defies her young age, LULU. is guiding her sound with a rare steady hand. – Julia Falcone

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Dipsea Flower

Hometown: Mill Valley, CA

Recommended Tracks: “Hummingbird,” “Sundance”

Spotify Monthlies: 23,363

Dipsea Flower, a new band self-described as "California folk-rock," was founded just last year with the aim of capturing the vintage California vibe inspired by the coast's nature and nostalgia. Hailing from Northern California, Dipsea Flower brings high-energy, feel-good songwriting – influenced by artists like John Vincent III, flipturn, and The Strokes.

Though they have only released two songs so far, "Hummingbird" and "Sundance," these tracks perfectly exemplify why their music is ideal for road trips, Sunday mornings, and campfires. We hope to hear more from Dipsea Flower throughout this year. – Vincent Merry

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Dylan Cotrone

Hometown: Bradenton, FL

Recommended Tracks: “Lazy,” “Cigarette,” “NO DEAL”

Spotify Monthlies: 25,802

Being from Florida, I’m always drawn to new up-and-coming artists from the Sunshine state. Dylan Cotrone first caught my attention with his short-form content, covering well-known artists such as Zach Bryan, Tyler Childers, Noah Kahan, and many more. He also does a great job promoting his own original music. Dylan took the approach of amassing a sizable community on social media first and then began releasing original music.

He now has three singles out – "Lazy," "Cigarette," and "NO DEAL" – which have all been on repeat for me. If Dominic Fike and Sublime were to have a kid, it would be Dylan Cotrone. He’s doing everything in an organic way and has swag while doing so. As a Floridian, I’m excited to continue watching him grow, as this is just the beginning for Dylan. If you're looking for a new vibe this summer, look no further. – Noah Schwartz

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BEAN.

Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee

Recommended tracks: “Malibu,” “Good Things,” “patmos”

Spotify monthlies: 4,984

With a distinct groove and ease, BEAN. makes the kind of music that is easy to fall in love with. Every piece of each song BEAN. releases falls together naturally, despite the complexity each offers. Weaving through unfixed lanes of soul, R&B, funk, and rock, the band cites various influences for their sound like Dijon, The Smashing Pumpkins, and Al Green. Distorted guitars and groovy strumming patterns stand out on tracks like, “patmos” and “Beautiful Mind,” while the production on “Good Things” is atmospheric and warm.

The band is based in Nashville and started releasing music in 2023. “Malibu” is the latest single released in anticipation of their self-titled EP dropping this Friday. As summer rolls around, BEAN. is undoubtedly making the perfect soundtrack to accompany it. – Tawnie Vickers

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Samara Cyn

Hometown: Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Recommended Tracks: “Moving Day,” “pride’s interlude,” “WAKE UP”

Spotify Monthlies: 253,839

‍Samara Cyn is the breath of fresh air that hip-hop needs. Originally from Murfreesboro, Tennessee, this now LA-based rapper brings raw lyricism and an intriguing vocal tone to the rap and R&B scene. In tracks like her latest release, “Moving Day,” and “Auto Pilot,” Cyn showcases her lyrical prowess, while songs like “Pride’s Interlude” highlight her smooth, melodic vocal abilities.

With captivating short-form visualizers and content that flaunt her freestyle skills, Samara Cyn has been rapidly gaining traction on social media. It's only a matter of time before her streaming numbers reflect her growing popularity. – Perry Avgerinos

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The Takes

Hometown: Portland, OR

Recommended Tracks: “Outside 45,” “Honey,” “River Stones”

Spotify Monthlies: 30,859

It should not be underestimated the effect of setting on music – where you choose to play a song is essential to how you hear it. Anywhere you may be heading this summer, The Takes are a great companion: whether it be a windows-down road trip, a sunny day on the porch, or a day of running errands, you can find comfort in any of the tracks found on the group’s most recent EP, Lay Hold. With noted inspiration in The Black Keys, Pink Floyd, and The Doors, the Portland, Oregon-based outfit know how to balance intimacy with rolling choruses, as demonstrated on recent takes of “Outside 45” and “Honey.”

Headed by vocal and guitarist Sumner Rahr, The Takes are rounded out by Fritz Frerichs on drums, Phoebe Webb on bass, and Guido Rahr on guitar. Firmly western rock and adjacently folk and country, the group’s charm comes to a front on 2022’s “River Stones.” The Takes have gotten better with time, and Lay Hold holds its own as one of May’s strongest releases across genres. – Kieran Kohorst

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