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, Spotify and TikTok now making this a more feasible option, and some of the best music out there today comes from these artists. In this recurring column, we’ll be uncovering and highlighting 10 hidden gems to listen to from talented independent musicians.
Shaynah – “Let That Go”
Rotterdam musician Shaynah is once again captivating the music scene with her latest single, “Let That Go”, a mesmerising R&B/neo-soul track that features Grammy-nominated artist Tiffany Gouché. This release comes as Shaynah’s upcoming EP, NAKED, nears its highly anticipated debut. The EP marks the third and final chapter of Shaynah’s complete album, Chapter 22, set to be released at the top of next year. With influences harkening back to the golden era of R&B in the ’90s and ’00s, “Let That Go” is an anthem that will resonate with fans of artists such as Brandy, Victoria Monét and India Shawn. The song’s production is a testament to Shaynah’s multifaceted talent, as she skilfully produced the track herself.
Jay Bizzy – “Interlude”
Jay Bizzy, a prodigious talent hailing from the heart of Dagenham, London, has once again set the music scene ablaze with the release of “Interlude”, a profound and inspirational rap track. Following the success of previous single “No Hook 2”, which made waves on YouTube Music, Jay Bizzy is rapidly establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with. “Interlude” delves into the depths of Jay’s hopes and aspirations, all while paying homage to the trials and tribulations he has overcome on his journey so far. The track serves as a powerful reminder of resilience, perseverance and the relentless pursuit of dreams, mirroring Jay’s own life experiences and unwavering determination.
PitchBLK – “NOVA”
Hailing from the vibrant and eclectic southside of Orlando, Florida, the enigmatic rapper PitchBLK, a former member of the genre-bending hip-hop collective Seeyousoon, is ready to take the music world by storm with his latest release, “NOVA”. This cathartic and euphoric third single demonstrates PitchBLK’s remarkable ability to guide listeners through emotional peaks and valleys, showcasing his prowess as a producer, songwriter and rapper, all rolled into one dynamic artist. “NOVA” isn’t just a song; it’s a powerful testament to PitchBLK’s journey and a tantalising glimpse of what lies ahead.
Akuchi – “No Games”
Nigerian born and raised artist Akuchi Amadi Osayaba, known simply as Akuchi, has unveiled his latest single, “No Games”. This motivational and infectious hip-hop track is poised to captivate audiences worldwide with its powerful message of determination and a refusal to play games in the music industry. “No Games” is a testament to his commitment to breaking free from expectations and genre limitations. The track boasts an international sound, a conscious decision on his part to carve out his unique path in the music world. Rather than adhering to preconceived notions of what a Nigerian artist should sound like, Akuchi is pioneering a fresh and innovative sound of his own.
Austin Fox 狐 – Genkurō 源九郎
Rising Virginia rapper Austin Fox 狐 has unveiled his latest masterpiece in the form of brand-new album Genkurō 源九郎. This album weaves a captivating narrative inspired by Japanese culture, mythology and martial arts philosophy, delivering a profound musical experience that transcends boundaries. Austin’s deep appreciation for anime and Japanese culture, reflected in the Japanese kanji for “fox” in his name (狐), motivated him to create a project that pays homage to these influences while connecting them to his personal life.
Eneeks – “What It Feels Like”
Renowned London rapper Eneeks is once again poised to captivate music enthusiasts with his latest soul-stirring release, “What It Feels Like”, featuring the soulful vocals of MOBO finalist Zitah. This new single, which is taken from his new album G.I.N.A, is a heartfelt exploration of the trials and triumphs one encounters while relentlessly pursuing their dreams. Known for his poignant lyricism and unwavering dedication to authentic storytelling, Eneeks has carved a distinct niche in the realm of hip-hop. “What It Feels Like” serves as a testament to his mastery of the craft, as he pens an emotional letter through his verses, narrating the tumultuous journey of chasing aspirations.
Turph Kako – Heartbreak On A Full Moon
Orajiaka Anthony Ferdinand, the versatile UK-based Nigerian musician, songwriter and record producer better known as Turph Kako, has officially released his debut EP, Heartbreak On A Full Moon. This highly anticipated project showcases Turph’s unique musical style and marks a significant milestone in his career. The EP delves into the complexities of heartbreak and the challenges faced in relationships, skilfully blending African rhythms with the soulful essence of R&B. The project boasts impressive collaborations with talented producers and songwriters, including Jabani, TKBheatz, Sambee, G U Y and T1Ondabeat, resulting in a diverse tapestry of emotional experiences. As Turph Kako continues to push boundaries and explore new musical horizons, his debut EP solidifies his position as a rising artist to watch out for.
Ten Hawkins – “Pump 3”
Ten Hawkins, the gifted rising artist hailing from Saluda, South Carolina, has dropped his electrifying new single, “Pump 3”. This track is a tantalising glimpse into his forthcoming album, The Manuel Garcia Chronicles, scheduled for release this November. Ten has been immersed in music his whole life. From jamming to iconic artists like 69 Boyz, Uncle Luke, R. Kelly, Michael Jackson, 2Pac, Biggie and DMX with his mother as a toddler, to crafting his own rap verses in the third grade, Ten’s journey through the world of music has been marked by dedication and an unyielding desire to contribute to the culture he loves.
Jéermain – “Long Time No See”
Rising Ghanaian artist Jéermain has once again captured the hearts of music lovers with the release of his latest single, “Long Time No See”. Known for his unique blend of Afrobeats, indie-pop and R&B, Jéermain’s music reflects the experiences of introverted, soft-hearted loners navigating life in an African society. His introspective lyrics draw from personal experiences, exploring the complexities of youth, love and the pursuit of one’s dreams. “Long Time No See” delves into the universal theme of life choices and the pursuit of happiness. In the song, Jéermain invites listeners to reflect on their own life decisions, acknowledging that every choice comes with its set of pros and cons. The track encourages a sense of contentment in the paths we choose, resonating with those who have faced the challenging task of balancing creativity and societal expectations.
Keelo – “Park Chinois”
Emerging artist Keelo takes listeners on a captivating musical journey with the release of his latest single, “Park Chinois”. This new track showcases Keelo’s lyrical prowess and his ability to craft a unique narrative that explores the intersection of opulence and humble origins. In “Park Chinois”, Keelo draws inspiration from a personal experience celebrating his birthday at the Park Chinois restaurant in Mayfair, London. The song captures the reflective mood he found himself in during the celebration, allowing him to delve deep into thoughts about life’s obstacles and his journey so far. The result is a track that inspires awe while sparking introspection, touching on themes such as relationship drama, the risk of freedom, fake friends, family in prison, mental health and the complex mindset of a hustler.
