Hey, music fans. If you love music as much as we do, you always look for new bands and artists to add to your playlists or collection.
Whether through attending concerts and festivals or direct submissions from the artists themselves, we are lucky to be exposed to many up-and-coming artists long before the general public does. So, in what we hope will become a regular installment at NRT, we offer the first of our Indie Music Spotlight. Here are five up-and-coming artists that are "ones to watch." We invite you to check them out.
Kate Stanford
Originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Kate Stanford now lives in Nashville, Tennessee. She writes and sings and is an all-around pleasure to get to know. She has a very positive message to share and a very active, inspiring social media presence. She brings sunshine to everything she does, which also goes for her music. Her star is rising and she will surely be signed to a major label soon. Here is her latest release, "Praise You."
Jalen Williams
Jalen Williams, hailing from Boston, Massachusetts, is a talented, educated, articulate worship leader and writer. His music is catchy, his raps are positive and uplifting, and his dancing and smile are infectious. He writes his own music and also plays the piano. Jalen is a hidden gem and one of my favorites. If you like rap and hip-hop, I know you will love his music. Be sure to check out his latest track, "Walk." Here is one of my favorites by Jalen, "Candle Lit."
Autumn Eve
Autumn Eve, an independent Christian Rock artist from Dallas, Texas. She has powerful vocals and great range. Her voice reminds me a little of lead vocalist Dawn Michele from Fireflight and hard rocker Lacey Sturm. Autumn Eve has tight instrumentals and natural transitions. They have a very polished sound. This band is just starting to blossom, and you would be wise to jump on the bandwagon while there is still room. Her latest release (and my favorite from them) is "Make You Mad."
The Band Jaren
Originally from Northern Michigan, sisters Jaren (lead vocals) and Jade (violin and vocals) now live in Nashville, Tennessee, fronting The Band Jaren. They are currently joined by their Florida drummer, a key player, and a backup vocalist from Southern California. When I listen to them, I automatically think of veteran greats Superchick and Barlow Girl--with a violin. Their songs are catchy, uplifting, and empowering. Their vocals are crisp, their lyrics are biblically sound, their energy is fun, and their instrumentals are on point. These guys will not be independent for long, as they just released an EP and are cranking out new hits as I write this. I saw them for the first time in August. I cannot wait to see them live again. Their latest track, "Your Cross Is Everything," is emblematic of their range, vocal power, and biblically-based lyrics.
Undefeated
If you want to talk about fun and high energy, that is the indie band Undefeated. This sibling band hails from Upstate New York, but they have a New York City sound. The two sisters (Meredith on lead vocals and guitar, Lis on bass) and brother Christian on drums, light up every stage they perform on. Meredith has incredible range and a voice reminiscent of the rock band Evanescence. But don't let the fact that they are siblings or Lis is still in high school fool you. If you ever get the chance to see them, do it. They are very talented, and their music is mature, loud, and polished. Meredith writes the music, while Lis and Christian add their talent to bring it to life. Here is one of the latest gems from Undefeated, "Future."
After you listen to these artists, please share your feedback in the comments.We want to know what you think, and if you would like to see this become a regular monthly article on NRT.
Tommy G is from Manchester, NH, and has been in the Christian Music Industry since 2003. He is a new artist scout, a DJ, and the executive producer of The Revolution Show / www.RevolutionShow.org
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