I find I have to search for new music every year. Apart from those that are promoted heavily, generally consumers are left in the dark, unless they go surfing online or hear about something by word of mouth. Last year one of my favorites, that seems like it will never stop getting exposure, is the song “Rise Up” by Andra Day.
A few artists that have released work this past year that I am LOVING, range
from those in the limelight to others that may not be so much, yet they have a strong presence. Two of my favorites for 2016 are Beyonce’s “Lemonade” and Bowie’s “Black Star.” These are two names that are of iconic status. Among the Best New Artists I’ve heard this year are Lukas Graham and Halsey. Straight Outta Copenhagen, Graham’s vocals seem well beyond his years liken to the lyrics of his hit record “7 Years,” which I say is a definite contender for Record of the Year. The song is featured on his debut self-titled album, that’s also the name of the band, in the vein of Sade (Adu).
Halsey’s current single “Chainsmokers” continues to top the chart. The newcomer also sold out New York’s Madison Square Garden, just months after her debut album “Badlands,” was released. She’s already achieved more than most artists even dream of.
Blink-182’s latest music titled “California,” is the first album by the band to feature vocalist/guitarist Matt Skiba, who replaced former member Tom DeLonge. The guys take the stage on Jimmy Kimmel tonight (10/3), and are at the Grammy Museum tomorrow. “California” debuted at number-one on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart, and was also the number-one Rock and Alternative album. The band also scored their first number-one release in the U.K. They wrap up their current tour in a couple weeks.
Dreezy has taken the world of music by storm and is being hailed as the “Princess of Chicago Rap.” Her record “No Hard Feelings” dropped this past summer, and she’s also featured on Aluna George’s track “Mean What I Mean,” from his latest, “I Remember.” A lot of folks were introduced to her, when she appeared on Common’s “Nobody’s Smiling,” back in 2014. ‘Hard Feelings’ includes guest appearances from T-Pain, Gucci Mane, Wale and Jeremih on “Body.”
Pete Yorn has already been rockin’ for 15 years. His newest album “ArrangingTime,” includes the singles “Lost Weekend” and “I’m Not The One.” I believe it’s some of his best work since his debut CD, “musicforthemorningafter,” and the words in both titles are conjoined – if that’s any indication of what you can expect.
Lastly on my short list, of talent I would love to see take the podium for music’s most coveted honor, is Adele. As popular as she is today, my love for her has grown, since she initially took the world stage. While I did appreciate her first hit “Chasing Pavements,” from “19,” I didn’t become a fan until she dropped “21.” While her vocals give me chills, her ability to tap into the emotions of everyone as a songwriter, is what has truly made her an International success #SaturdayNightLive. Her latest CD “25,” brings together some of the best producers, writers and musicians, including Paul Epworth and Ryan Tedder – who worked with her on “21.” “25” also features new collaborations with the likes of Max Martin and Shellback, Greg Kurstin, Danger Mouse, the Smeezingtons, Samuel Dixon, and Tobias Jesso Jr. Adele has been touring the U.S. performing before packed houses, her run of shows come to a close, on November 21st in Phoenix.
for the LOVE of Good Music
c-dub
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