In 2024 audiences bore witness as the freshest musical talents rose to fame. With musicians showcasing their regional sounds and embracing their heritage, the global stage is more explosive than ever. Team EnVi has you covered on the hottest global artists to keep on your radar for this upcoming year. Whether you’re looking to diversify your playlist, or searching for emerging talent we rounded up 25 artists who you don’t want to miss out on in 2025! 

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REHMA

Image courtesy of Rehma

One track at a time, Pakistani-American songstress REHMA paves the way for the new generation of brown artists in the music scene with her unique fusions and cultural expression. Raised in a musically wealthy environment, her adventure began with classical choir training in the U.S., and this laid the foundation for her special vocal style with music revolving around genres such as opera, jazz, and blues. REHMA released her EP Mercy in 2020, which explored identity, growth, and ambition in her early twenties. The track “Hypnotic,” which was featured on Spotify’s EQUAL Pakistan playlist in May, is celebrated as a bold anthem for self-expression and space-making for women. Serving as an ambassador for this initiative, she actively champions visibility for South Asian artists — particularly women — on global platforms.

A legacy that blends cultural pride with a modern musical ethos is being created by REHMA through collaborations with other South Asian creatives. Hit song “Ladke” featuring South Asian R&B artist Shreaa Kaul solidifies her commitment to using art for social justice. Listeners are invited into a world where tradition and innovation coexist through REHMA’ work. REHMA continues to musically bridge their South Asian roots with the sound of western pop and R&B. — Angela Ruedas

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Recommended Song: “DIVA”
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CHLOE STAR

Image courtesy of Chloe Star

Chloe Star turns life’s chaos into music that shines just as bright as her name. When she was younger, Star grew an early passion for journaling and writing poetry. The Persian and Indigenous singer-songwriter then taught herself piano and guitar. Once she blended her passion with her talent, she started to create heartfelt music. Now, the openly queer artist is an advocate for female empowerment while redefining what it means to be a rockstar. Star blends pop, rock, and punk into catchy tracks that are unmistakably hers. 

Star officially debuted in 2023 with her single “Element,” an electrifying anthem to live life to its fullest. She cemented her alt-pop sound with her gritty 2024 EP the bed i lie in, where she intimately unpacked her struggles with loneliness, heartbreak and overcoming addiction. However, Star’s latest single, “Stand the Silence,” has a more delicate tone. Tender guitar riffs are paired with heartfelt lyrics about the emotional highs of performing and the quiet loneliness that follows. The single is a stark contrast to the usual unapologetic edge of Star’s discography, including tracks like “FMIF.” This is all a testament to Star’s versatility and depth, showing that Chloe Star isn’t just rising in the industry — she is destined to shine bright. — Kayla Gayle

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Recommended Song: “said what i said on the internet”
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JIWOO

Image courtesy of Jiwoo

Debuting in 2019, Korean-Canadian singer Jiwoo has steadily made a name for himself in the K-R&B scene, blending various shades of R&B, soul, jazz, and more into his growing repertoire. With his debut album, Maison, the 27-year-old became the first artist signed under fellow Korean artist Colde’s label, WAVY. Since then, Jiwoo has released five solo albums, including this year’s smooth 2000s-reminiscent “Afterimage.”

If you were lucky enough to catch Colde on his North American “BLUEPRINT TOUR,” you might have seen Jiwoo in your city and even found a few new songs to add to your playlist. From August to September, the Toronto-based singer set out as the opening act for the first half of the tour. As he performed for thousands across the U.S. and Canada, he has earned newfound support along the way. With his breezy timbre and poetic songwriting, Jiwoo specifically creates music that reaches the depth of your core and lights an ember from within. Keep your eyes peeled for him in 2025 — he’s only just getting started. — Chyenne Tatum

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Recommended Song: “Afterimage”
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KARENCICI

Image courtesy of Karencici

If you’re reminiscing about the past, whether it is a bygone lover or an authentic Y2K sound, Karencici has you covered. Karencici is a Chinese-American singer and songwriter, penning hits in English and Mandarin. Her seductive vocals are the perfect base for any genre, especially her forte R&B. Karencici has been on the rise with her self-written verses and addictive song snippets gaining traction on TikTok. Rightfully so, with many commenters applauding her authenticity to the ‘90s and early 2000s sound. In true R&B fashion, she dives into the topic of romance with her songs. Karencici’s songs perfectly capture the feeling of being smitten. The intimate, slow tempos coupled with honest lyricism speak to the heart. 

Her most popular track, “愛你但說不出口,” is a perfect introduction to Karencici’s signature sound. “愛你但說不出口” taps into a romantic and nostalgic sound, carried by her emotive vocals and bright synths. The track resonated with listeners all over the globe, with many requesting translations in their own native language. Despite the language barrier, Karencici is able to deliver a heartfelt tune that the world has been eager for. This year also sparked new horizons for Karencici, diving into new genres. “BITE,” her collaboration with Taiwanese-American artist ØZI, is an EDM and house track perfect for a night out. Her most recent single, “Over and Again,” still carries her lovestruck attitude, but this time, over an acoustic sound.  With a successful 2024 and a steady climb in her following, you won’t want to miss out on what Karencici will deliver in 2025. — Jade Diones

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Recommended Song: “It’s Not You It’s Me”
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NEENA ROE

Photo by Niamh Murphy for EnVi Media

If you haven’t heard of singer-songwriter Neena Roe yet, then allow us to introduce you to her. Born a first-generation Iranian American, she has nostalgic ties to her parents’ homeland in Iran and has recently incorporated her identity into her work as an artist. Centering most of her music around themes of love and self-discovery, her repertoire captures genres like R&B and pop that complement her warm, sultry vocals. She is surely someone you need in your music library if you’re a lover of indie artists with strong vocals.

Although she garnered attention for her single “TRUST (feat. Gabriel Duran)” (which is a hit, by the way), we would argue that her most recent works, particularly her cover of the Iranian folk song “Bordi Az Yadam,” truly showcase her abilities as an artist. She has shared on her social media that she is deeply connected to her culture and finds herself yearning for a homeland she will likely never see in her lifetime. This unrestrained honesty is captured best in her recent projects, giving a realistic look into the life of a child of immigrants. The artist released her debut EP, how to be alone, back in November. The album showcases her identity candidly, the calm instrumentals and raw lyrics leaving you to peruse her discography in a desperate search for more. — Vanessa Arias

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Recommended Song: “New In Town”
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HOJEAN

Image courtesy of Hojean

Since 2017, we have been granted the soothing and sultry voice of Hojean and all that comes with it. With an album, an EP, and many singles to his name, Hojean went on his first U.S. and Canada tour after the release of Cherie in 2023. The “To Cherie, With Love!” tour stopped in 23 cities from September to October and had five opening acts, which differed by location. Documented on his YouTube channel, Hojean soaked up his well-earned success all tour long. 

Known for his candidness about the music industry and the struggles of being mostly self-produced, he took a long break from releasing new music for the first half of 2024. Hojean soon opened up about his concern regarding growing and promoting as a musician and his fans welcomed him back to the scene with open arms. To firmly announce his return, he released his single “I Could Be Forever,” which goes over topics like mistreatment, the worries surrounding love, and physical exhaustion.

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Directly after this release in August, Hojean departed for his Australian tour and followed this up by playing a set at UC Davis. With the release of “See You Boy” on SoundCloud and an Instagram post about locking in to produce his next album, Hojean has been silent since. This leads us to believe that 2025 is not only going to be a massive year for Hojean’s music and art. — Eliza Orlic

Recommended song: “Easily”
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WREN EVANS

Photo by Huỳnh Trí Nghĩa courtesy of Wren Evans Team

In just a few years, Wren Evans has become one of the brightest stars in Vietnam’s music scene. The Hanoi-born singer, songwriter, and producer made his debut in 2019, quickly gaining attention for his genre-blurring sound that pulls from R&B, bossa nova, and modern pop. A testament to his global outlook and boundless creativity, Wren’s 2021 hit “Thích Em Hơi Nhiều” took over social media, while his COLORS performance of “Trao” revealed a more softer, introspective side.

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In 2024, Evans released “Để Ý (Notice),” a playful and infectious track with sweet lyrics that highlights his knack for turning personal moments into widely relatable songs. Similar to previous hits like “Từng Quen,” “Cơn Đau,” and “Gặp May,” the single continued to cement his reputation for making catchy music that resonates. Alongside his growing discography, Evans’ influence has expanded beyond music, making waves in fashion with his sleek, edgy style that mirrors his artistic vision. With his calm demeanor and trailblazing vision, exciting new projects are anticipated in 2025. Wren Evan is not just part of the next wave of V-pop, he’s helping to shape it. — Davonna Gilpin

Recommended Song: “Thích Em Hơi Nhiều”
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ISHBEL WARIFA

Image courtesy of Ishbel Warifa

Singaporean singer and songwriter Ishbel Warifa is a name you want to keep on your radar. At just 21 years old, Ishbel has been honing her craft since childhood, immersing herself in various acappella and chorale groups. This early exposure to music has shaped her unique sound and storytelling ability, allowing her to create captivating melodies that stay with you long after the song has ended. With an impressive knack for combining different instrumental elements, Ishbel’s tunes are annoyingly catchy in the best way possible. Her latest single, “Hide and Seek Love,” released in late 2024, is a perfect example of her artistic vision. With its infectious rhythms and heartfelt lyrics, the song encapsulates the thrill of the chase, showcasing Ishbel’s ability to weave personal narratives into her music.

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Despite currently having around 4,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, her songs resonate powerfully with those fortunate enough to discover her. As she continues to release both new and old originals that her growing fanbase eagerly anticipates, it is clear that Ishbel Warifa is on the brink of something special. Her music genuinely resonates with listeners, carrying an emotional depth that is hard to find in today’s pop landscape. Keep an eye on this promising artist, as her unique sound and storytelling are bound to captivate a wider audience and establish her as a noteworthy figure in the music industry. — Autumn Ward

Recommended Song: “Hide and Seek Love
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ISOxo

Image courtesy of ISOxo

Meet ISOxo, aka Julian Isorena, the 23-year-old bass DJ and producer who is making seismic waves in the EDM world. Hailing from San Diego and of Filipino and Indonesian descent, ISOxo began his musical journey in 2012 and played his first DJ set at just 16. That night, he met his now best friend and collaborator Knock2, kickstarting a partnership that would redefine electronic music. From sold-out shows to dominating festival stages like Coachella, Ultra, and Head in the Clouds, ISOxo has quickly risen as one of the genre’s most exciting talents. Along with Knock2, he also made history as one of the first EDM acts signed to 88rising.

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In 2023, ISOxo unleashed his debut album, kidsgonemad!, through 88rising — a high-octane blend of chaotic beats and raw creativity. At 23, he is now taking the album on tour in 2024, captivating audiences with his electrifying performances and innovative sound. ISOxo’s explosive energy and genre-pushing artistry have cemented him as a force to be reckoned with. Whether you’re a festival junkie or a bass music enthusiast, ISOxo is the name to watch as he redefines the boundaries of EDM. — Minnie Dao 

Recommended Song: “SKYLIT”
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DENA

Photo by Sara Conway for EnVi Media

2024 was a big year for Taiwanese singer-songwriter and YouTuber Dena. From releasing her cuttingly honest single “on read” in February — after more than a year since her last music drop — to holding her own concert in Taipei later in December, Dena has steadily built her sound and her community. The pop artist released her first single in 2018 with a sprinkling of other tracks between then and 2022, including the bright “July.” In 2024 alone, Dena shared four new songs with the support of Warner Music Taiwan, with whom she signed earlier this year. Besides “on read,” her collaboration with fellow Taiwanese singer-songwriter JOYCE 就以斯, “dumb af,” made waves, as it sits at over 700,000 streams on Spotify. Three months after the wry yet fun song came out, Dena dipped her toes into rock with “Emo Again.” 

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Before the singer-songwriter wrapped up 2024 with “What If I,” four a.m. thoughts turned into a guitar-driven track, she also performed in Hong Kong. Invited to perform at YouTube Music Night, Dena shared her honest voice through her music with fans outside of Taiwan. With the ups-and-downs of 2024 in mind, Dena put it best in an interview with EnVi: “As long as you’re trying your best, no matter what decision you’ve made for yourself at that stage of your life, it’ll never be a wrong decision because you only gain experiences.” Sara Conway

Recommended Song: “What If I”
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LET ME KNOW

Image courtesy of Let Me Know

When you’re searching for your next favorite rock band, you should meet LET ME KNOW. The Japanese trio is redefining the genre with their “nostalgic modern” sound. Formed in late 2023, the rock trio made their official debut on February 21, 2024 with their first single “LAD Romance.” This powerhouse band is influenced by indie rock and new wave and is characterized by emotionally charged vocals and irresistible melodies. Matty, their lead singer, brings a husky sweetness to tracks like “Boring Days” and “False Love and Highball,” with Ken (guitar) and Lyo (drums) crafting a sound that is both fresh and ageless. 

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LET ME KNOW energize major stages like Summer Sonic Tokyo, and their rising popularity shows that they are a band to watch. Fans of classic rock with a modern twist will be hooked by their music which is perfect for them. Experience their magic firsthand and dive into their tracks! — A.R.

Recommended Song: “False Love and Highball”
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NATUROSYNTH

Image courtesy of NaturoSynth

From the first note, NaturoSynth’s music feels like a breath of fresh air in the indie scene. The Chicago-based band is composed of Arjun Gopal and Kiernan Gopal — who are writers, multi-instrumentalists, and producers — along with the live band members keyboardist Pranav Joshi, bassist Arjun Shamaraya, and drummer Michael Plumridge. Since the group’s debut in 2019 with the single “Silver Chain,” NaturoSynth has fused alternative, psychedelic, funk and indie influences to curate their own sound that feels both futuristic and authentic. 

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NaturoSynth’s latest EP, Does This Last?, is the epitome of their signature style. The lead single, “Dance Destiny,” is a summer anthem filled with disco grooves, psych-pop melodies, and ethereal synth layers. The members narrate a love story of eternal connection, exploring the Hindu concept of reincarnation, as the song’s punchy basslines and bouncy rhythms makes listeners just want to “dance to it.” Previous hits such as “Headphones On” and “The Image” have racked up over 376,000 and 221,000 streams on Spotify, respectively. The group’s presence online continues to grow as they gain 367,000 likes and over 14,000 followers on TikTok. The band is making its way in the indie music scene as the members continue to push boundaries. NaturoSynth is a band that should be on your horizon as they carve their path toward 2025.  — K.G.

Recommended Song: “Headphones On”
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REGINA SONG

Image courtesy of Regina Song

Rising Singaporean singer-songwriter Regina Song has made waves this past year. A quick scroll through the TikToks that use her song “the cutest pair” (the sped up version) shows a variety of feel-good videos. Across the almost 65K TikToks, there are song covers, calm and cute crafting tutorials, and even K-drama clips. The catchy chorus — starting with “No one can love you like I do” — has resonated across the Internet, the radio, and streaming platforms (on Spotify alone, “the cutest pairs” has over 22 million streams). 

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Song’s open lyricism and stripped down, no fuss production style cuts through the saturated music industry. From “high school boy” and “clueless” to “leftover feelings” and “i don’t rly care bout u!,” the songstress creates music that feels like a friend talking to a friend. In 2024, Song collected both new and old tracks into a diary of sorts — Fangirl, her first full album since the start of her career in 2021. Now, five months after releasing her 10-track project, Song will embark on her first-ever Southeast Asia tour. “Fangirl: the tour” will kick off on January 10 in Kuala Lumpur and conclude on January 25 in Manila. Although she keeps her lyrics grounded and relatable, Regina Song is set to fly high in 2025 and beyond. — S.C.

Recommended Song: “venus”
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RHYU

Image courtesy of Rhyu

Searching for music that feels like a dream and transports you to another world? Singaporean indie-pop singer rhyu (short for Raine Hahn Yu) blends soothing and emotionally raw tracks, combining bedroom R&B and indie pop. Rhyu’s ethereal soundscapes and introspective lyrics create an escape into memorable music with suave love songs like “Kaleidoscope” and emotive tracks like “Falling behind,” both of which will linger in your mind. Rhyu is an artist to immerse yourself in their one-of-a-kind sound and explore if you like vibey melodies and sincere storytelling. Though her musical journey is just beginning, Rhyu’s introspective and heartfelt lyricism already hints at a bright and promising future. — A.R.

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Recommended Song: “But does my love make you feel?”
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SHREEA KAUL

Image courtesy of Sheera Kaul

Shreea Kaul is a master of her craft, effortlessly fusing early Desi music with contemporary R&B. Her music serves as a sonic representation of her identity as an Indian-American artist. Kaul was born in India and moved to America in her early childhood. Kaul always had a natural affinity for arts, and her love of music only blossomed with time. Stepping onto the scene in 2017, she continues to represent her heritage through an intricate marriage of genres.  

Kaul’s music is often bilingual, with verses alternating between Hindi and English. Her silky smooth vocals allow a seamless transition from one language to the other. If anything, her bilingual songs add a layer of depth to the already entrancing beats. Her 2024 single “Tere Bina” is her most successful release yet, with over eight million Spotify streams and three million Youtube views. “Tere Bina” also incorporates elements of the Afrobeat genre with an addictive drum pattern — proving that her musical exploration is limitless. The post-chorus additionally incorporates syllables commonly found in Indian classical arts. Her most recent single, “Bheegi,” is a collaboration with Pakistani music producer and composer Talal Qureshi. Kaul described “Bheegi” as “Bollywood’s golden 2000’s era energy with a modern twist.” Kaul is the perfect artist for listeners wanting to diversify their genre explorations. — J.D.

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Recommended Song: “Ol’ Dude”
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RIMON

Image courtesy of Rimon

Hailing from the East African country of Eritrea but raised in the Netherlands, RIMON brings a unique perspective to the music scene that feels like a breath of fresh air. Debuting back in 2018 with her single “Grace,” followed by the EP BBYGIRL FOCU$, the singer-songwriter is quickly becoming a rising star in the R&B/Soul scene in Europe. The artist toured with Giveon for the North American and European legs of his tour and garnered attention for her husky, sweet vocals. Not only is she making waves for her performance on stage, but she also earned a spot on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, proving her talent is not to be ignored.

In November, RIMON released her debut album Children Of The Night, where she discusses themes of self-discovery, freedom, and the experiences that shape us. With her soulful yet haunting vocals, RIMON balances introspective lyrics with a sense of defiance. Sung over lush instrumentals that yield a moody yet dreamy vibe that can be felt on every echoed chorus and pensive lyric. From paying homage to her Eritrean roots on “Make Money (feat. Mereba)” to encouraging listeners to recognize their self worth on “Flowers,” Children Of The Night is a powerful debut album, opening a shimmering path to what awaits RIMON in 2025. — V.A.

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Recommended Song: “Out Of My Way”
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LEY SOUL

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Showstopping singer Ley Soul is young, gifted, and sitting on very wanted music. With four songs released on Spotify, she has already accumulated over one million monthly listeners. Her Neo Soul sound instantly attracted fans of the genre, and her first official single “Intergalactic Janet” took off on TikTok, gaining her a lot of attention. 

With the release of “Fortune Eyes” in April and “Into Sands” in September, she solidified her name as a new Jazz voice. Though she has clear talent when it comes to music, Ley Soul is actually a college student during the day making her dreams of being a singer come to life in between classes. When she is not writing new music or studying for exams, she is releasing covers on TikTok and YouTube to promote her name. Most of her own music consists of themes of introspection and distortion of reality. To the pleasure of many, Ley Soul decided to finish off her 2024 with the release of her fourth single “Fly Away.” If her 2025 is anything like how her 2024 has turned out, it is going to be a marvelous year. — E.O.

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Recommended song: “Into Sands” 
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LYKN 

Image courtesy of RISER MUSIC

Thai idol group LYKN have been steadily turning heads since their debut in 2023 under RISER MUSIC. The five-member group — Nut, Hong, Tui, William, and Lego — introduced themselves to the world with their debut single “May I?” and quickly followed it up with tracks like “No Worries” and “TRUST ME.” Their name, inspired by the word “lycan,” reflects their “ability to transform and adapt, a quality that shines through their dynamic performances and ever-evolving sound.”

2024 marked a breakout year for the group, highlighted by multiple viral moments that elevated their visibility beyond Thailand. Whether it was their show-stopping live performances or their engaging social media presence, LYKN captured the attention of fans around the globe. Their inaugural concert, the “LYKN Unleashed Concert,” held in Bangkok, showcased their high-energy stage presence and left audiences in awe. They also had popular collaborations like “Hui Lay Hui” with SIZZY and the playful “CHARM,” featuring actors Joong Archen and Pond Naravit. But LYKN are more than just a music group; each member is a multihyphenate, with interests spanning acting, fashion, producing, and more. Currently, the group is starring in the GMMTV series ThamePo: Heart Skips A Beat, with member William taking the lead role. 

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Looking ahead, LYKN are set to embark on the “Unleashed Asia Tour” this year, bringing their dynamic performances to cities like Jakarta, Tokyo, and Phnom Penh. Blending polished choreography, sharp vocals, and a fresh take on pop music, LYKN have quickly carved a space for themselves in the competitive Thai music industry. With a growing discography, an expanding fanbase, and a reputation for engaging performances, the group is poised to step into 2025 as one of the most exciting names to watch not just in T-pop but across the global pop music landscape. — D.G.

Song Recommendation: “SUGOI”
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ZY THE WAY

Image courtesy of Zy The Way

If you have never heard contemporary jazz fused with ancient Chinese poetry, it’s not too late to start. Enter Zy the Way: a five-piece Taipei-based band blending jazz and poetry from the Book of Songs in fascinating ways. Although they released an EP in 2023 — titled A Different Destiny — they ramped up music drops in 2024. Starting with “Ten Acres 十畝之間” on June 7, Zy the Way released three singles (along with two remixes for two out of the three tracks) to build anticipation for their first full-length album. The 10-track Then And Now officially dropped on November 22, but Zy the Way were carving a unique path with their sound well before listeners could start streaming the project. 

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Not only has Caitlin Magee (vocals), Bruce Tsai (poetry reading and visuals), Derrick Lin (bass), Matt Fullen (piano and composer), and Steve Ma (drums) performed at the World Music Festival in Taipei this past year, but the innovative ensemble also played at the Taipei Jazz Festival. In addition, they were selected to be guest performers at the press conference for the latter event. Complete with calming poetry reads and colorful musical interpretations, Zy the Way’s newest project pulls listeners into an unforgettable atmosphere. Keep an eye on Zy the Way — they are changing the world of jazz, one note at a time.  — S.C.

Recommended Song: “Wild Winds 終風”
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FLOWEROVLOVE

Emerging from the vibrant world of bedroom pop, flowerovlove, (birth name: Joyce Cisse,) is an artist to keep an eye on. With a sound that masterfully blends nostalgic vibes and insightful lyrics, she crafts music that resonates deeply with themes of girlhood and personal growth. Starting her musical journey at the tender age of 13, Cisse initially laid low while exploring modeling, but she has since fully committed to her passion for music. Her EPs, Think Flower and A Mosh Pit in The Clouds, showcase her unique ability to channel youthful experiences into catchy, feel-good tracks. Popular songs like “Hannah Montana,” “Love You,” and “BOYS” have already garnered attention, proving her skill for creating infectious melodies filled with heartfelt reflections.

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With the recent release of her EP ache in my tooth, flowerovlove invites listeners on a journey through adolescence and all of its complexities. The lead single, “breaking news,” is paired with a whimsical music video that beautifully captures the innocent exploration of new love set against a backdrop of her music. Flowerovlove is not just a fleeting trend but a genuine talent making waves in the industry with her refreshing perspective and relatable themes. If you long for authentic storytelling and uplifting pop sounds, then flowerovlove is the artist to add to your playlist. Don’t miss out on witnessing her journey unfold; she is definitely one to watch. — A.W.

Recommended Song: “breaking news”
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EMEI

Photo by Niamh Murphy for EnVi Media

EMEI is the alt-pop sensation you never knew you needed, blending raw emotion with catchy beats that make you want to dance through your feelings. At 15, she took a bold break from school to compete on the show Chinese Idol, snagging third place and setting her sights on bigger stages. Fast-forward to 2022, and EMEI’s single “Late to the Party” went viral, racking up over five million streams and over nine million TikTok views. Her infectious energy continued to soar with her track “Sunny D,” a collaboration with Whethan, that became so iconic, it earned a spot as the official anthem for the Sunny D brand. 

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From halftime shows to chart-topping hits, EMEI isn’t just following trends — she’s setting them. Her latest release, RABBITHOLE, is a sonic adventure through panic, anxiety, and self-discovery, showing that even in the darkest moments, there is room for growth. With a stage name that blends her Chinese roots and English nickname, EMEI is carving out a space where authenticity and pop perfection collide. If you haven’t hopped down the rabbit hole yet, now is the time — EMEI is here, and she is making alt-pop history one catchy hook at a time. — M.D. 

Recommended Song: “SUGARCOAT”
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JULIET IVY

Image courtesy of Secret Signals

Twenty-three-year-old Juliet Ivy knows she is not the only one thinking about death or working through big feelings. In early August, the singer-songwriter wove these thoughts into her compact yet resonating EP, tiny but scary. In an interview with EnVi, she talked about her new album: “I felt like this project was welcoming people into my brain and getting to know me in a more personal way.” 

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Through the five-tracks on the EP, the Colombian-Chinese artist comforts her younger self in “sweet dreams;” reflects on how her current actions could only hurt little Juliet Ivy in “4 foot 2;” and gathers her girls close in “girl talk.” Although Juliet Ivy has only been on the scene for three years, she has made her voice heard loud and clear — even with her soft, whispery vocals. From her viral hit “we’re all eating each other” reaching 20 million streams to tiny but scary reaching over one million streams, she is just getting started. But wherever Juliet Ivy goes, we know she will always pack an emotional punch with a bow on top. — S.C.

Recommended Song: “4 foot 2”
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DFZM

Image courtesy of DFZM

Colombian rapper DFZM, born Dylan Ferney Zambrano Montaño, joined an all-star lineup of Colombian artists on the track “+57” alongside Karol G, J Balvin, Maluma, and Feid in late 2024. At just 18, the Buenaventura native has emerged as one of Latin music’s most exciting new voices, blending freestyle rap with melodic rhythms that reflect his roots.

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DFZM first gained attention in 2022 with his viral freestyles which eventually led to a record deal with La Creme and Sony Latin America. Now with over 10 million monthly listeners on Spotify, fans connect with his smooth, dynamic flow, storytelling, and the hometown pride reflected in tracks like “Cartagena” and the viral “Cali Buenaventura” with Mike Bahía.

Just getting started, DFZM is combining sharp lyricism with an undeniable aura, positioning himself as a defining voice in Latin music’s next wave. — D.G.

Recommended Song: “AYY GONO”
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GRIFF

Photo by Niamh Murphy for EnVi Media

Need a song to soundtrack your nostalgic thoughts on childhood? Listen to Griff’s “Miss Me Too.” Need a song that puts all the love you feel into words? Listen to Griff’s “Walk.” Need a ballad to cry (and maybe scream to) after a painful breakup? Listen to Griff’s “Astronaut.” No matter the situation, the British-Jamaican-Chinese singer-songwriter has all the joys and all the pains tucked into her discography. 

In 2024, not only did Griff release her first full-length album, Vertigo, she also supported two tours (ever heard of Taylor Swift and Sabrina Carpenter?). Swift tapped Griff for “The Eras Tour” show at Wembley Stadium this past June. Meanwhile, a couple of months later, the “Espresso” singer brought Griff back to center stage for the “Short ‘n Sweet” tour in select cities. The British singer even embarked on her own world tour, the “Vertigo” tour, starting in August and wrapping up in early December. EnVi declared the New York City show to be one of both strength and softness. Oh, and Griff also lent her warm vocals to season three of the Heartstopper series on Netflix. Essentially, 2024 was the breakout year for Griff, but it is only up-and-up for the popstar from now on. — S.C.

Recommended Song: “Miss Me Too”
Socials: IG | TK | YT

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ALEMEDA

Image courtesy of Alemeda

In late 2024, alt-pop/R&B artist Alemeda joined TDE, home to genre-defining artists like SZA and Doechii, marking a significant milestone in her career. At 25, the Sudanese-Ethiopian, Phoenix-raised artist is already making waves with her clever songwriting and genre-blurring approach. Her debut EP, FK IT, released in September, features both breakout tracks like “Gonna Bleach My Eyebrows” — a SoundCloud-era fan favorite — and new additions such as breakup anthem “I already dug your grave.” The six-track EP balances frustration and relatable mid-20s apathy with wry humor.

Alemeda’s music draws from a range of experiences, blending personal struggles; like navigating identity and resilience amid a strict upbringing, with lighter, relatable moments of moving on from a loser boyfriend. Whether she’s chronicling the aftermath of a bad relationship or the messy self-discovery that comes with adulthood, Alemeda’s unfiltered approach connects with listeners having similar experiences. With a musical offering that’s equal parts cathartic and raw, Alemeda is proving she’s ready to define alt-pop’s next wave. Fans can catch her on two separate tours this year with Rachel Chinouriri and Halsey. — D.G.

Recommended Song: “Guys Girl”
Socials: IG | TK | X | YT

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Want to discover more new artist? Check out our exclusive interview feature with Japanese group ONE OR EIGHT here!