By Nate Mills – The music industry is worlds away from where it was before the digital era. 20 years ago, the notion of kickstarting a music career with limited resources and no record label wouldn’t have been practical for most but nowadays it’s common practice. More and more artists are being self-sufficient or signing to small indie labels rather than the majors (Sony, Warner and Universal), with the rise of the internet and digital platforms such as iTunes, YouTube and Spotify now making this a more feasible option. Some of the best music out there today comes from independent and unsigned musicians, and there are new acts popping up daily that are yet to reach the masses. In this recurring column we’ll be uncovering and highlighting 10 hidden gems to check out from talented independent artists.
Scary Jeri – “Excommunication”
Alt-pop artist and producer Scary Jeri creates music that fuses alternative, pop and indie music and advocates for mental health, addiction, spirituality and social justice issues. Hailing from Anchorage, Alaska, they’ve been going from strength to strength since bursting on the scene in 2019 with a series of releases, including popular tracks such as “Run (Out Of Love)” and “The Road”, and they’re set to keep their momentum going and reach new heights with the release of their new single, “Excommunication”. Standing out with its infectious melodies, a thumping production and Scary Jeri’s velvety vocals, it showcases what a huge talent they are and why they are undoubtedly one to watch. The song also impresses lyrically, as they talk about moving on and embracing change, which many people will be able to relate to.
margø – “one bad day”
Having already built up an online following since bursting on the scene in 2019, margø has a bright future, and her new single, “one bad day”, is worth checking out. The track is an unapologetic and empowering pop banger about making the decision to not let a toxic relationship hold any power over your life. Gritty yet shimmery guitars and punchy pop-punk drums contrast her previous darker productions as she poses the question – why be sad about someone who just isn’t worth your time?
Savi Kaboo – “Hurting”
As a singer, songwriter, rapper and producer, Savi Kaboo’s alternative sound and style defy borders and easy categorisation, building a diverse sound that draws on her international roots (American-Egyptian and raised in Vienna, Austria). Since arriving in 2020, Savi has independently released a series of unforgettable songs, such as “Blinded”, which went on to generate over half a million streams on Spotify alone, and she has no plans of slowing down anytime soon. Keen to build further on her momentum, she has just unveiled her brand-new album, L.A. New single “Hurting” is one of the highlights on the project and stands out with Savi’s honeyed vocals laid over a grimy beat as she sings about the dark side of a relationship.
The Fur – “The Light”
Hailing from Stockholm, The Fur is an exciting artist, songwriter and producer who made his debut in 2021. Despite only arriving a year ago, he’s already managed to accumulate almost one million streams on Spotify alone as an independent artist. His brand-new single, “The Light”, is his seventh original release, and it arrives exactly one year after his very first single, “Americana”. The style of the song takes from tropical house and Nordic dance pop, with an Ariana-like flavour added by Los Angeles-based singer Ashley Alisha. The inspirational lyrics focus on overcoming mental health struggles and searching for the light inside of us.
girl_irl – “sting”
Formerly a touring DJ and an ongoing producer, girl_irl is one of the many aliases of Em Perlman. Making music that they call “industrial pop” with inspiration from their diverse roots (MENA roots with an Atlanta upbringing), girl_irl explores all aspects of today’s sonic landscape, tapping into new genres and bringing a new sound with it, as can be heard on their electrifying new single, “sting”. Infused with an infectious upbeat energy, the self-produced track is another impressive entry into their growing discography. The single is taken from their newly released EP, world champ.
mickey jas – “Better Me”
Rising singer, songwriter and producer mickey jas has unveiled his latest single, “Better Me”. Hailing from Baltimore, Maryland, mickey only burst onto the scene earlier this year but made a big impression with the March release of his outstanding debut single, “Angel Child”, and “Better Me” is even more impressive. Produced by mickey, the track stands out on first listen with its captivating and versatile production alongside mickey’s stunningly soulful vocals. It’s elevated further by a slew of infectious melodies and a huge anthemic hook that will no doubt be ingrained into everyone’s head as mickey sings about becoming a better person.
Shoffy – “Nightmares In NYC”
Shoffy is a singer-songwriter and producer based in LA, and he makes the most stunning pop and electronic music. His latest single, “Nightmares In NYC”, is one of his best releases to date. A mellow track that fuses elements of pop, soul and electronic, it makes a big impression on first listen and also highlights what a great vocalist he is. The track is the first single lifted from his upcoming album.
BARRON – “Escape”
Following on from the release of his debut single, “Where Do We Go”, Nashville-based producer BARRON has returned with new single “Escape”. The aptly titled track is a feelgood summertime anthem and the perfect track to escape and get lost in. Having spent time studying artists such as Odesza, Rüfüs Du Sol and Shallou, he has managed to craft his own sound that will no doubt bring many new fans to the genre over the years to come.
Logan Garrett – “Kelly Rollin”
Rising producer Logan Garrett has been building a name for himself in the house scene with his club-ready party anthems. He’s already previously collaborated with various hip-hop acts, so his recent collab, “Kelly Rollin”, alongside hip-hop artist Gorilla Zoe and Subrinse should come as no surprise. Having supported Kygo at Billboard’s SXSW show earlier this year, Logan is having a great 2022 so far which will no doubt continue with the release of “Kelly Rollin”.
xndr. – “To The Light”
xndr. is a rising producer, DJ and songwriter. A classically trained musician, his music is rooted in EDM with his own unique spin. His latest track, “To The Light”, incorporates funk/disco with a modern tech house drop that will surely be lighting up club dancefloors this summer. With only three tracks to his name on Spotify, it will be interesting to hear more and see where his sound goes next.
