2019 is officially underway, and waiting in the wings are seventeen artists ready to make this their biggest year yet. Whether you’re a fan of country, pop, R&B, or rock, this definitive list features up-and-comers on the cusp of taking the industry by storm. The best part? You can say you knew them first.
Normani rose to prominence as a member of the international girl group Fifth Harmony. But, as we head into 2019, she’s ready to introduce herself as Normani, the solo artist. Having already collaborated with Khalid, Calvin Harris, and Sam Smith, fans are patiently waiting for her to drop her debut solo album, which is expected to be released in early 2019.
In just a few short years, Jack Hess has gone from recording covers in his basement to selling out headlining shows. He’s opened for acts including Austin Mahone, Jack and Jack, and HRVY. He has a brand new single out, “Swerve on You”, which is a pop masterpiece.
A new female powerhouse has arrived on Nashville’s infamous Music Row, and her name’s LYRX. With a natural born talent, this country artist is redefining the genre with her mesmerizing vocals, deep-rooted storytelling, and unconventional sound. Keep your eyes (and ears) on this one!
When Epic Records recording artist AJ Mitchell first began posting videos online, he always hoped people would discover his music and enjoy it. So, it seems fitting that when he dropped his debut EP in 2018, it was entitled Hopeful. This year, the pop R&B singer-songwriter is hitting the road on his first headlining tour. Tickets are available on his official website.
Caroline Marquard may not be a rolling stone, but she’s definitely one to watch. Since dropping her thunderous single, fans have been patiently waiting for new music from this Nashville-based singer-songwriter. Luckily, they won’t have to wait too much longer, as she prepares to take over 2019.
Brandon Stansell was born with country music running through his veins. Since moving to Los Angeles, the singer-songwriter has been honing his signature brand of “California Country”. In 2017, he dropped his debut album Slow Down, establishing himself as a singer-songwriter with a lot to say and a voice to remember.
Rachel Reinert is no stranger to success. She was a founding member of Gloriana, the group won an Academy of Country Music Award for Top New Vocal Group, an American Music Award for Breakthrough Artist of the Year, and toured alongside the likes of Taylor Swift, Rascal Flatts, Sheryl Crow, Jason Aldean, and Zac Brown Band. Now, Rachel Reinert took the biggest gamble in her career: she decided to leave the band and pursue a solo career. With a renewed sense of self, Rachel is ready to take center stage.
Singer-songwriter Mitchell Tenpenny had a lot to celebrate in 2018. He made his major label debut with Telling All My Secrets, which includes his first no.1 single, “Drunk Me”. He’s also shared the stage with a variety of influential artists including Granger Smith, Dustin Lynch, Maren Morris, Brett Young, and Lynyrd Skynyrd, and shows no signs of slowing down. And, he’s carrying that momentum in 2019.
Liddy Clark may have been testing the waters with her debut EP, but her timeless vocals and unique blend of indie pop meets country has won the hearts of many. She’s performed at iconic venues like the Country Music Hall of Fame and shared the stage with the likes of Scott McCreery, Joe Nichols, Chris Stapleton, and Jake Owen. With a natural gift for storytelling, the sky’s the limit with this up-and-coming singer-songwriter.
2019 belongs to In Real Life. Since winning ABC’s Boy Band, Brady, Chance, Drew, Michael, and Sergio have continued their rise to superstardom. They’ve dropped countless hit singles including “Eyes Closed”, “Tattoo (How ‘Bout You)”, and “Tonight Belongs to You”, and headlined their first tour. All that’s left to do is dropped their highly anticipated EP/album. We’re waiting guys!
Sza’s music empowers women to be vulnerable, honest, and introspective. Her combination of sultry and raw vibes draws listeners into the “20-something” world of romance, confusion, heartbreak, and ultimately self-discovery.
Chance Peña burst onto the music scene at the age of fifteen, catching the attention of artists like Adam Levine and Pharrell Williams. Since then, he’s continued to grow as an artist, honing his craft and songwriting ability. Last December, he dropped his most personal song to date, “Bad Days”, a glimpse of the great things ahead for this folk-pop artist.
In 2018, Devin Kennedy took center stage. Having previously written and produced for other artists, the talented musician took a giant step forward by releasing his own solo music. He dropped four singles, “Body”, “Waste of Time”, “Bad Habit”, and “Feel the Same”, and teased to Pop Culturalist that a bigger body of work, plus some tour dates were ahead in 2019.
Jenny Tolman has a lot to be grateful for, and we have a feeling she’s going to need another gratitude jar. Named one of Rolling Stone‘s “10 New Country Artists You Need to Know”, the Nashville-based singer-songwriter has burst onto the country music scene with a signature sound and lyrics that can strike a chord with any listener.
Australian singer-songwriter Dean Lewis is making waves with his single, “Be Alright”, which has racked up over half a billion streams worldwide. This year, the global superstar embarks on his first US/Canada headlining tour, where he’ll definitely be singing his new single, “7 Minutes”.
Jenna Paulette is a modern cowgirl taking the industry by storm. If you haven’t heard her infectious single “F-150”, you’re missing out! When we last spoke with Jenna, she gave us the inside scoop that more music is on the way.
Luke Metzler is an up-and-coming indie artist who’s been making a name for himself with his relatable songwriting talents. He’s taken his life experiences and channeled them into his craft, striking a chord with music lovers everywhere.
Photo Credit: Malte Wingen/Unsplash
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