In every generation, there are artists that just captivate everyone. These artists all have different stories to tell – distinct origins, struggles, and goals for pursuing the creative lane. But they all share the same love for the creative arts. While this is so, each of them features a unique and memorable style that they have honed through years and years of practice. They put in every little bit of their effort to produce, sing, and write outputs that audiences should always be on the lookout for. Here are the Top 20 Artists that need to be followed this year:
1. DaBaby
DaBaby is the hottest and sickest rapper around. Straight out of Cleveland, Ohio and spending his adolescent years in Charlotte, DaBaby was exposed to the ins and outs of the streets. DaBaby was born Jonathan Kirk in 1991. Back in 2015, Jonathan decided to enter into the music scene as a rapper taking the alias Baby Jesus then subsequently changing it to DaBaby. Over his career, he has released songs that top the Billboard Charts.
In 2019, he signed with Interscope and dropped Baby On Baby which later donned the Billboard 200 Top Ten. He has collaborated with industry hotshots like Nicki Minaj, Chance The Rapper, and Migos for the album KIRK. The album, after it was released, bested other tracks and climbed to the number one spot in Billboard 200. DaBaby is also twice-nominated at the Grammy’s for his songs “Suge,” for Best Rap Song and Best Rap Performance.
Instagram: @dababy
Spotify: DaBaby
YouTube: DaBaby
2. Wolf Mason
Perhaps one of the most unique and gifted creative talents of his generation; 23 year-old Florida native Wolf Mason’s arrival on the international music scene has been one of the few shining lights in 2020. Since the young superstar’s first official release in January of this year, he has amassed an impressive number of streams and fans. However, what people love most about Wolf besides his magnetic authenticity, unrestricted, genre-less sound and impressive ambition both within music and philanthropically, is his versatility.
Wolf is a master lyricist and published author at the ripe age of 23. His unique diction, style, and swagger make him capable of reaching the heart and mind of anyone who comes across his music. He also mixes and masters all of his own music from his bedroom studio, in addition to producing, directing and editing all of his own content. The young star has had an incredible start to his promising career, and with labels knocking on his door and a stocked catalogue of new, unreleased music – listeners cannot wait to see Wolfie does next.
Instagram: @wolf_mason
3. Wayz World and MAX
Wayz World
After independent artist Wayz released his debut album “Machine” fall of 2019, he quickly received high praise from fans and numerous hip-hop blogs worldwide, as well as national press from some top publications all spring and summer 2020. Now with his 1st albums buzz still growing, Wayz plans to release one single per month in the next 10 months, starting with his July 31st 2020 release “The One That Got Away” which is quickly spreading for its unique style of almost genreless sound and deep story. The only thing it lacks is explicit content. He might be onto something big!
Facebook: WAYZ WORLD
Instagram: @itswayzworld
Twitter: @itswayzworld
YouTube: itswayzworld
Website: www.wayzworld.com
MAX
Official photo for The Colour Vision World Tour
MAX is a multi-faceted artist from NYC and is steadily making waves with tracks that deeply connect with listeners. Max Schneider is a pop/soul singer, dancer, and actor. His musical works include First Encounters, the first EP he released back in 2010. It was followed by a collaboration with rapper Hoddie Allen in the rapper’s debut album People Keep Talking. Max went on to drop his second EP, Wrong.
He’s worked with many big names in the industry like gnash, Lil Uzi Vert, Hayley Kiyoko, among others. Max’s songs have captured audiences and his fan base is growing by the thousands each day. The music industry is sure to expect more from this promising artist.
Instagram: @maxmusic
Spotify: MAX
YouTube: MAX
Website: www.maxmusicofficial.com
4. Tyra Grayson
Tyra Grayson, or TGD or TGD Shot It, is a concert/entertainment photographer, graphic designer, and videographer. TGD stands for Tyra Grayson Designs which signifies her graphic design services. The 22-year-old Birmingham-native has shot shows for many artists like Moneybagg Yo, Lil Baby, DaBaby, Boosie Badazz, Drake Bell, Billie Eilish, Cardi B, Travis Scott, and more.
She does freelance work for labels such as Quality Control Music, SouthCoastMusicGroup, and more. She is a current Graphic Design Bachelor’s student at Full Sail University and currently for hire. Tyra is looking forward to growing and expanding her brand amongst working with other brands and making a difference in the creative community and entertainment or music industry.
Facebook: Tyra Grayson
Instagram: @tyraisme
YouTube: Tyra Grayson
Website: www.graysontyra.wixsite.com/tgdofficial
5. Alabama Nick
Alabama Nick is an Armed Forces Veteran and Southern “Trap” artist. He says he’s been rapping all of his life, but launched his rap career in 2019. Managed by Miramar Talent Agency, he transitioned from an acting career in Los Angeles, back to his roots in Alabama to pursue music full time in early 2020. He is making noise down south and drops new music on a consistent basis. This Country Boy with an attitude wants Alabama to be respected as a powerhouse in the rap game. Keep your eyes on Alabama Nick, he’s a true artist on the rise.
Facebook: Alabama Nick
Instagram: @therealnickthomas
Twitter: @alabama_nick
TikTok: @alabamanickmusic
YouTube: Alabama Nick
Spotify: Alabama Nick
Website: www.alabamanick.com
6.Christian Ladigoski
Christian Ladigoski is an esteemed multimedia artist. He is a film and soundtrack Composer, Executive Producer and Multi-Media Entrepreneur owning ventures in digital marketing, production, and filmmaking. Christian has been in the music industry for 12+ years, has written soundtracks for Lifetime Movies, high-end indie production companies, and several nationwide collaborations with award-winning filmmakers, producers, and directors.
Christian works with festivals around the country as well as online outlets such as Syfy Wire and he is also a Youtube Partner. This established artist is based in New York City, at the heart of the entertainment industry. And he is always ready to meet new people and create new expressions of music.
Instagram: @gowskiproductions; @christianlagodoski
Website: www.gowskiproductions.com www.christianladigoski.com
7.Natalja Sticco
This scorching Latvian-born opera & classical music singer launched her career in 2009, breaking-out as a soloist and concert performer when she moved to Boston in 2018. Natalja has racked-up an impressive 200 plus performances of 30 operas in 6 countries across Europe, the Middle East, and North America. In July 2020, she released her first alternative crossover single “My Love” on Spotify and Apple Music. Need more reasons to love Opera? This multi-talented Mezzo is also an IT Engineer in Robotics and placed in the top 2% of models in Maxim Magazine’s 2020 Covergirl competition!
Facebook: Natalja Sticco Mezzo-Soprano
Instagram: @natalja.sticco
Spotify: Natalja Sticco
YouTube: Natalja Sticco
Website: www.nataljasticco.com
8. Kallie Rock
Kallie Rock is a singer/songwriter who lives bi-coastal between Los Angeles and Orlando. You will always catch her in the studio and on occasion with top artists like Neyo or watching the game courtside with Rick Ross. Kallie’s Buzz has just started and is expected to take off after the release of her next single and music video “Bitter”. Set to release this year.
Instagram: @kallierock
9. Bobby Luv and Urban Blaze
Bobby Luv
Bobby Luv is a Multi-platinum producer and singer-songwriter born on the East Side of Compton, CA. In 2013, he landed his first record titled “Episode” by E.40 ft Chris Brown & T.I. in addition to landing another big hit titled “Post to Be” by Omarion, Jhene, and Chris Brown.
Bobby began building a name for himself while co-writing on Chris Brown and Tyga Album “Fan of Fan.” He gained more fame after landing credits for other big records like (“Wrist” ft. solo Lucci) followed up by singles from Chris Brown titled “Grass Ain’t Greener”, “Party” ft. Usher and Gucci Mane, “Questions”, “Pills & Automobiles”. Bobby Luv has set himself apart as being one of today’s leading songwriters, landing 27 placements on Chris Brown’s Platinum albums. With a vast library of musical influence spanning from Reggae and Dancehall to Top 40 Pop and EDM. Bobby has an outstanding work ethic & creative mind and was the missing piece to this music industry.
Instagram: @bobbyluvcpt_ohb
Urban Blaze
Known as Abraham Numerick, Urban Blaze, is an 18-year-old aspiring country singer and social media influencer who recently started artist development with his management team at Youngville Agency eight months ago. Urban Blaze has been able to share the stage with the Texas country music Hall of Fame artist, Neil McCoy as well as numerous others so far in his musical journey. In July of 2020, Urban released his biggest record to date entitled “Meet Me at Farm” featuring the national TV star Big Smo.
Working with his management team he has continued to receive all royalties, profits from events, merchandise, and promotions. Urban Blaze is a rarity to all independent artists, learning the behind-the-scenes of the music industry and how to successfully be in contract while retaining all rights and royalties to his music. Urban Blaze will be releasing his debut country album ‘City Boy, Country Tastes’ in the Fall of 2020. The second Big Smo feature titled ‘Take Me Back Home’, along with the collaborative music video, will be released alongside the release of his debut country album.
Instagram: @iamurbanblaze
Spotify: Urban Blaze
10. LINC
LINC is an up and coming rapper/singer who’s gaining a buzz after the release of his self-produced album “Up For Hours” which came out during quarantine. Linc explored new sounds and styles which has his fans excited. LINC plans to continue releasing music throughout the remainder of 2020.
Instagram: @theycallmelinc
11. Tito Dudley
Celebrity Chef, Tito Dudley aka Chef T, is a cancer survivor on a mission to spread as much education around food, nutrition, and technology. Tito wants to embrace technology and use it as a tool to build a more sustainable world and educate along the journey. He continues to build his platforms, such as his podcast SEWCT and VEKTWEEN the sister company. All three platforms aim to inspire the reader and listener with educational tools to better themselves in this modern world.
Instagram: @officialcheft; @getsewct
TikTok: @theofficialcheft
Podcast: SEWCT on anchor.fm; SEWCT on Spotify
Website: www.simpleeats.com
12. Cipher
Cipher is an independent hip-hop artist, streamed in 35+ countries, who releases a new song every month. Born in California and raised in Texas, Cipher mixes his southern style with quick verses to deliver a listening experience like no other. His recent single ‘Make You Mine’ hit #34 on iTunes’ R&B/Soul Songs Charts in the UK. In his first few months on the hip hop scene he has been featured in magazines like BuzzMusic, major blogs such as A&R Factory, radio stations such as The G Radio, and major playlists like Vibe Boost. Cipher is also an entrepreneur and US Navy veteran with philanthropic initiatives on the horizon for Dallas, TX.
Instagram: @CipherMusicOfficial
Facebook: Cipher
Spotify: Cipher
YouTube: Cipher
Website: CipherMusic.com
13. Tony V and Logic
Tony V
Michael Antonio Almeida is popularly-known by his stage name Tony V. He is an American singer, rapper, songwriter, DJ, and music producer. Born in Manhattan, NY. He is versatile in any genre – whether RnB, Pop, Hip-Hop, Rap, Latin Music, to mention a few.
Early 2020, he released his first 11-track album 0703 then later releasing 3 more singles “Ride For You,” “It’s A Vibe,” and “How Do You Sleep.” And now, he released his latest single “Fine”. This is just the beginning for the singer. With more content on the way, the artist seeks to connect with his fans and audience through music to build a bigger fan base. Be sure to Tune into his latest music video “How Do You Sleep” on VEVO. (https://youtu.be/2sLsk32h88c)
Instagram: @tonyvocals23
Logic
Logic is a 30-year-old rapper from Gaithesburg, Mary Land. The musical veteran was born Sir Robert Bryson Hall II and has steadily risen to fame after releasing a series of mixtapes that garnered millions of streams and downloads from an ever-increasing fanbase. The tapes Young, Broke, and Infamous; Young Sinatra; Young Sinatra: Undeniable; Young Sinatra: Welcome to Forever are some of Logic’s masterpieces that gave him unprecedented success in the music industry.
He went on a worldwide tour and signed under Def Jam Recordings in 2014. Since then, the brightest star in music has dropped three albums, Under Pressure, The Incredible True Story, and Everybody, released in 2014, 2015, and 2017, respectively. Logic’s recent album is star-studded, with features from music icons like Neil deGrasse Tyson, Killer Mike, Chuck D, Alessia Cara and Khalid. In July of this year, Logic officially announced that he will retire from the music scene so he can focus on becoming ‘a great father.’ But his music will live on.
Instagram: @logic
Spotify: Logic
Website: www.defjam.com/artists/logic
14. Akasha Rah
Akasha Auset Rah is a multidimensional lyricist, rapper, and artist. Originally from South Russia, she had also lived in China, New York and now residing in Los Angeles. Pulling from various artistic, cultural and life experiences, Akasha has developed her own music style with her unique hypnotic voice, flow and lyrics.
Akasha’s various passions extend to acting, filmmaking, fashion design and even Hypnosis! She is a conscious entrepreneur who owns several companies including her own transdimensional entertainment platform #NOBASICS with various division in film, music and fashion created to provide a non basic approach to world’s social and economical issues through various media outlets, and her non-profit organization “Temple of Akasha” formed for the evolutions of human consciousness to empower the divine feminine, fight injustice and violence in the world, as well as to provide crisis relief.
Instagram: @akashaausetrah
Website: www.akashaishere.com
15. Bobby Smith Jr.
Bobby Smith Jr. is a singer-songwriter from the Eastern Shore. The promising artist is an R&B singer who writes and sings songs about surviving all the struggles he has overcome. As an ex-convict – spending 20 years in prison and 6 years in solitary, Smith found music to be his saviour. “My music will tell a story of not only my struggles I faced but that my listeners, my supporters may be facing.” The music of Bobby Smith Jr. will give listeners motivation – a voice for others who may not know how to speak on.
Starting his musical career, Bobby entered the industry with the alias iBrazee. As an artist, iBrazee is someone who is very diverse with his music. He intends to record songs that touch the listeners in many ways. From ballads, R&B songs, to pop, he aims to make his music be full of realness.
YouTube: iBrazee
16. EL3CTRXX
DJ EL3CTRXX is an esteemed music producer who has been creating music for 15 years. He has lived and performed in San Diego CA, Louisville KY, and most recently Tampa and Miami FL. Notorious for his unique and ear-catching beats and sounds, DJ EL3CTRXX has been sought-out to perform in many events like Kentucky Derby events, such as The Derby Hot 100 party. Recently, the DJ dropped his debut single “Run” under Ace Clubs Recordings. The veteran DJ continues to make music, entertaining audiences across the US and internationally.
Facebook: EL3CTRXX
Instagram: @el3ctrxx
Twitter: @EL3CTRXX
Spotify: EL3CTRXX
Website: www.electrxx.com
17. Reepocussion
Reepocussion is a Chicago-native artist that not only raps but also produces and engineers his sounds. He is a self-taught artist who is always working to expand the horizons of his musical career. Reepocussion is signed to Biggest Hit Music and has already released a single, “Twerk,” remixed by Maurice Joshua. His beats consist of majestic chords and hard hitting bass. When working with other artists, Reepocussion exhibits versatility. Whether along the lines of trap, hiphop, R&B, reggaeton, he makes sure to deliver. According to the artist, his music depicts his life and the struggles he’s had to overcome.
Website: www.biggesthitmusic.com
18. Yaya Dinero
Yaya Dinero is a Los Angeles based, Detroit made rapper. She’s been seen with the likes of Zay Hilfiger, Cardi B, and DJ Khaled. Yaya is releasing music and visuals in August 2020. For the young yet established artist, rap brings out a different type of hunger and aggression in her. “Once I’m in that booth I tell stories and express myself in ways that would be difficult for me to get out on a daily basis. Rap brings out a go get it to drive for me reminding me I am able. Rhythmic Aggressive Poetry = RAP is how I see rap.” Eyeing for more record deals and collaborations, coupled with a hunger for her craft, Yaya Dinero is an artist to look forward to.
Instagram:@yaya.dinero
19. Fortune The Wolf
John Wilson aka Fortune The Wolf is definitely the artist to watch in 2020 and beyond with his dynamic messages, community leadership, economic business networking, and classic timeless 90s rhyme skills. He has impeccable work ethic and perseverance that has put Ohio directly back on the map with an Ohio Steel Valley Revolutionary state of mind. Bringing The Empowering legacy of hip hop back to its Elite MC Status.
John Wilson aka Fortune the Wolf has been featured in 5 of the Biggest names in publications this summer and now has moved up to one of the Top 25 artist to watch in 2020 ‘ John applauds his Team Ausar Film Productions llc and PR Team and Agents for the great hard work to achieve Maximum exposure for such a historical moment for The State of Ohio and The City of Youngstown.
Instagram: @the_film_capo_di_tutti_capi
YouTube: FortuneTheWolfVEVO
20. Sarah Todd
Sarah Todd is an internationally collected artist who creates stunning paintings that are often customized for the client’s space. Her signature work combines elements of timeless art techniques with a contemporary edge and features 24K gold leaf and genuine silver leaf.
For Sarah, what she loves the most about her art is that it’s a gratifying experience for not just her, the artist, but for the viewer as well. “The art calls the viewer to creatively participate in using their imagination to interpret the painting as they see something different every time they look at the work.”
Instagram: @sarahtoddart
Website: www.sarahtoddart.com
Opinions expressed by NY Weekly contributors are their own.
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