If you can’t stop listening to Taylor Swift…
…try Chloe Qisha
Hailing from Malaysia and now based in the UK, Chloe Qisha is a captivating artist that every Swiftie should explore. Her music embodies modern pop, infused with deep emotions and a touch of vintage cool reminiscent of artists like St. Vincent or Haim. With energetic, danceable choruses and heartfelt lyrics, Qisha deftly navigates the themes of love, longing, and the complexities of human emotions. Her discography, which includes an EP and several singles released in 2024, showcases her understanding of the delicate balance between restraint and exuberance—masterfully alternating between moments of nonchalance and high drama.
Songs to stream: “I Lied, I’m Sorry”, “21st Century Cool Girl”
If you can’t stop listening to Bruce Springsteen…
…try Sam Fender
Sam Fender, the young Brit who is quickly becoming a national treasure, has earned the title of “Geordie Springsteen” for good reason. His music beautifully narrates the beauty and tragedy of everyday life, delving into themes of masculinity while delivering expansive songs that resonate with raw emotion. The rich, open-road soundscape of his tracks mirrors the essence of Springsteen’s glory days. Born and raised in working-class North-East England, Fender’s personal experiences and political insights lend an authenticity and power to his music that is hard to overlook.
Songs to stream: “People Watching”, “Seventeen Going Under”
If you can’t stop listening to Charli XCX…
…try AG Cook
AG Cook, who recently won the Brit Award for Best Producer for his work on Charli XCX’s Brat, is not just a behind-the-scenes talent; his solo work is a refreshing alternative to the repetitive play of “365”. As a co-founder of the record label PC Music, established in 2013, AG Cook is a trailblazer in the hyperpop genre, characterized by its super-artificial and sugary sound. His solo albums, including two from 2020 and the recent Britpop in 2024, are expertly produced, bursting with vibrant energy and color. Beneath the shiny exterior lies a depth of emotion and sensitivity, creating a unique listening experience.
Songs to stream: “Silver”, “Britpop”
If you can’t stop listening to Sabrina Carpenter…
…try Bellah Mae
While Sabrina Carpenter has made a name for herself as a pop icon, her charm lies in her humor, relatability, and empowering lyrics. Similarly, 21-year-old Bellah Mae is carving her own path in the music world. Gaining recognition through TikTok, she first gained traction with her covers before releasing her breakthrough single, “Boyfriend of the Year”, in 2023. Mae combines a classic pop sensibility with a hint of country, all while expressing lovelorn sentiments that resonate with listeners looking for catchy grooves and heartfelt storytelling.
Songs to stream: “Boyfriend of the Year”, “Mr. Hypocrite”
If you can’t stop listening to Joni Mitchell…
…try The Weather Station
The Weather Station, led by the talented Tamara Lindeman, is a Canadian band that has been making waves since 2006. While many artists have attempted to replicate Joni Mitchell’s iconic sound, The Weather Station carves its own niche by offering original compositions that evoke raw, poetic feelings. Lindeman’s lyrics explore the intricacies of relationships and personal introspection, all set against a backdrop of lush strings, saxophones, guitar, and gentle percussion. Their music takes listeners on an emotional journey, with moments that can be both heartbreakingly poignant and uplifting.
Songs to stream: “Tried to Tell You”, “Body Moves”
If you can’t stop listening to The Weeknd…
…try Jordan Adetunji
If you’re drawn to moody R&B grooves, then Jordan Adetunji’s dulcet tones are sure to resonate with you. This Belfast-born singer and rapper possesses an incredibly versatile voice and a gift for creating irresistible hooks. He shot to fame with his hit single “Kehlani”, which gained further recognition when the artist herself featured on the remix. Adetunji’s sound is firmly rooted in the bass-heavy, slow-jam style that fans of The Weeknd adore, yet he brings a fresh, contemporary flair that showcases his undeniable confidence and charisma.
Songs to stream: “Kehlani Remix (feat. Kehlani)”, “Too Many Women (feat. Kwn)”
If you can’t stop listening to Amy Winehouse…
…try Lola Young
Lola Young has made her mark with the hit single “Messy”, offering a soulful and distinctly British sound that would appeal to any fan of Amy Winehouse. Young’s music is characterized by its directness and relatability, often addressing themes of anxiety and self-doubt while maintaining a solidly self-assured musicality. Her ability to balance vulnerability with a strong artistic presence creates an empathetic and grounding listening experience.
Songs to stream: “Messy”, “What Is It About Me”
If you can’t stop listening to Adele…
…try Sekou
For those who believe that artists like Adele are a rarity, British singer Sekou proves otherwise. Nominated for the Brits 2024 Rising Star Award, Sekou is unafraid to pour his heart into his music, accompanied by understated instrumentation. At just 20 years old, he channels a lifetime of emotion into his tracks without veering into cliché. While his style leans slightly more towards R&B than Adele’s classic sound, Sekou brings a contemporary twist that reintroduces powerful vocals to modern pop.
Songs to stream: “Better Man”, “Forgiving Myself”
If you can’t stop listening to Olivia Rodrigo…
…try Alessi Rose
Olivia Rodrigo made a significant impact with her 2020 album Sour, a pop masterpiece steeped in adolescent angst. If you’re captivated by her sound, Alessi Rose is a must-listen. This 22-year-old British singer combines confessional lyrics with a nostalgic Y2K aesthetic, exploring the remnants of failed relationships through her music. With driving drum beats and catchy hooks, Rose delivers a fresh take on the sad-girl-meets-pop-icon sound that has resonated deeply with fans.
Songs to stream: “IYKYK”, “Oh My”
If you can’t stop listening to Arctic Monkeys…
…try Sports Team
If you think no indie rock album can ever surpass the Arctic Monkeys’ iconic debut, you might be overlooking the charm of Cambridge band Sports Team. While they may not quite match the Arctic Monkeys in their exploration of everyday melancholy, Sports Team more than makes up for it with their self-awareness and playful energy. Their catchy, guitar-led choruses and clever, tongue-in-cheek lyrics are sure to satisfy any craving for rock-star charisma. With two albums already available and a new release, Boys These Days, slated for May, there’s plenty to dive into.
Songs to stream: “Condensation”, “I’m in Love (Subaru)”
