Although the underground is full of talent, we compiled a list of seven female artists that we are keeping close tabs on this year.
Reminiscent of your favorite 2000’s R&B vocalists, Sydny August’s airy vocals ooze both passion and serenity. The jazz influence is undeniable in the Chicago native’s sound, but her EP 6th Floor is comprised of tracks that serve a threshold of emotion and stylistic versatility. August ranges from wistful, bittersweet love songs like “Overdose” (Prod. Anvil), to House in the “Hills” (Prod. Anvil) which seems to draw from indie and electronic influence. Figure in her raw talent and collected demeanor, big things are expected from the vocalist in 2018. Sydny August creates a modern spin on a timeless era of music.
SpiceGurlPurp has proved herself as an unlikely contender in the underground game. Hailing from Canada, she blends elements of different styles seamlessly, blurring the lines of what it means to be a female rapper. With an energy all to her own, she is pushing boundaries intrepidly. Her collaborations with ICED OUT balance her gothic imagery with classic hip hop flow style and production. With confidence and finesse, SpiceGurlPurp has much to offer to a progressive corner of this industry.
Delicate and angelic, Sophie Meiers’ compelling vocals and lyrics provide a dreamscape ridden with imagery and honesty. By creating vivid pictures and motivating listeners to explore layers of analogies and metaphors, she bravely allows her listeners a look at her vulnerability. Standout tracks like “sincerely, yours” [sophie meiers x nohidea], “don’t be scared” [sophie meiers x Michael Manson], and “erase me” [sophie meiers x nion] create a new wave of the singer songwriter genre.
While a familiar face in the scene for years, deathbyromy has created a new name for herself: creating tracks that work a spectrum at both ends. While her skills as a vocalist are undeniable, and recently Romy has been establishing herself as a rapper, too. The depth of her lyrical talent is easily identifiable. Songs such as “TERROR!’s BROKEN STAR” ft. deathbyromy and coldest soul showcase her raw and earnest singing voice, while “Nightmares” (Prod. _Miyamoto_) and “Running and Hiding” (prod. gameboysace) show her promise as a lyricist. By drawing audiences from both sides of her creations, deathbyromy proves that no one will ever expect what she has planned next.
Zoot Leggz’s deep rooted inspiration from old school hip hop is undeniable in her tracks, however she breaks all the rules of what a ‘rapper’ is. She has been a force in the underground for years now, even working with the now defunct Schema Posse for a period of time. Her music chaotically blends her unique style with confident lyrics, ever reminding her supporters to stay true to themselves and make no appologies.
https://soundcloud.com/zoot-leggz/culture-vultures-prod-by-shinigami-tenshi
West-Coast gem CELESTIA has a habit of adopting rich, full beats and layering her erethral vocals to create compelling tracks that have left many impressed. The delicacy and simplicity in her voice allows listeners to interpret each song for themselves; crafting a new experience for each supporter. She has teamed up with some of the most notable up and coming producers such as ʎpoqou, killedmyself, and steezy prime. CELESTIA is an artist who’s music is an oxymoron in itself; light and fragile, while simultaneously deep and dark.
Gender aside, when looking at artists on the rise, Saphir should be on your list – her talent knows no bounds. When listening to her music one thing is clear: She was made for this. Saphir creates cathartic music that articulates a range of emotions each has felt. Her chilling voice and skillful ear have ensued collaborations with artists such as BRENNEN SAVAGE, Lil Tracy, and Bones. Her sound is effortless, timeless, and aching for recognition. She touches on nearly every genre of music. From jazz to electronic, the only constant in Saphir’s music is the consistency or quality.