You never forget the time when your ears were blessed by the pure musical talent of classic artists like The Beatles, Micheal Jackson and Whitney Houston. Credit is also due for big names like Beyoncé, Justin Bieber and Ariana Grande for some of the most epic dance party jams to the pick-me-up songs we listen to when we are sad. While these iconic and mainstream artists are still producing hit after hit, it is time to give some much-deserved attention to the underrated and rising artists of 2021 that are just as talented.

1. Q

With a sound similar to Frank Ocean, Q, a 21-year-old artist from South Florida, makes music that sounds wise beyond his years. He displays his transfixing voice and genius lyrics throughout his three albums by taking inspiration from the genres of acoustic pop, soul and alternative rock. Now signed to Columbia Records, Q is an artist promising enormous potential for the future.

      2. Fana Hues

Next on the list is Fana Hues, who brilliantly twists the traditional R&B sound by bringing elements of herself to the genre. She recently released her debut album, “Hues” in December of 2020 which contains emotional lyrics placed over a jazzy soundtrack.

     3. Gracie Abrams

Gracie Abrams is the artist to check out if you are searching for a voice that will break your heart (in a good way, of course). Singing mainly emotional pop music, she has often been compared to Lorde, Clairo and Lana Del Ray. Her latest album, “Minor,” was released in July of 2020 and features 10 songs, all of which are full of beautiful imagination.

      4. Channel Tres

Sheldon Young, known professionally as Channel Tres, is a rapper, singer and record producer who makes electronic hip hop music. He has collaborated with Tinashe as well as Tyler, The Creator, which is fitting as many people have compared the two male artists. Channel Tres currently has two albums and multiple singles out, ensuring that you will find a track that you will love.

      5. UMI

LA-based singer-songwriter UMI produces R&B music with a sound similar to SZA and Jorja Smith. Signing onto one of the top record labels, RCA records, she has already encountered amazing success. However, her musical journey is just getting started as UMI continues to reinvent modern R&B.

With these five artists and so many more to discover, there is no doubt that you will find at least one that satisfies the sound you have been searching for. So, next time you want to listen to something new, or even something relatively familiar, consider adding an amazing rising artist to your music library.