Rival’s Unrivaled List of Artists to Watch This 2025
As we approach 2025, a fresh cohort of artists is emerging, ready to challenge and redefine the musical landscape and join the revolution that’s been raging non-stop for the past 10 or so years in the industry, where genre boundaries and labels are becoming a thing of the past. Each of these talents offers a distinct perspective, blending personal narratives with innovative sounds that reflect the complexities of the modern. In a world hungry for authenticity, these artists are poised to make a lasting impression, encouraging us to explore new dimensions of connection and creativity.
SAMANTHA MARIE
Samantha Marie, aka Sammy Saglibene, has had an amazing year. The indie pop singer-songwriter (Emphasis on the songwriter part) with a style that’s hard to describe yet easy to identify—and even easier to get hooked on—recently released her sophomore LP in October, titled “shapeshifting,” a chronicle of pain, growth, and evolution in more ways than one.
This coming year will be a creatively wild one for Samantha. She’s gearing up to play live shows in NYC while working on a new album (TBA) and a series of oil-on-canvas paintings. Delightful!
WHIT
With a background that spans from being a former Miss United States to a professional wake surfer and kickboxing commentator, WHIT is anything but ordinary, even for a public figure. Music became her true calling after overcoming early discouragement, and with the later encouragement of industry insiders like Matt Novesky from Blue October, she made her way to Nashville. Her latest EP showcases a unique fusion of 90s rock energy and modern country vibes, packed with gritty riffs and heartfelt lyrics that resonate with anyone who’s faced adversity.
With a podcast that’s hit the top 50 on iTunes and a growing online coaching business, WHIT is all about empowerment and real talk. As she gears up for her next release, expect her to challenge norms and inspire listeners with her unfiltered approach to life and music. Keep an ear out for WHIT; she’s set to redefine the country rock scene in the coming year by pushing through with several new singles and surprise projects aplenty.
JOSHUA MARQUEZ
Joshua Marquez is a Philadelphia-based composer and sound artist who navigates the intricate terrain of Asian American identity through his music. His work captures the essence of cultural duality, using sound to express themes of alienation and connection. Joshua is truly unique, a harmonious conceptualist inhabiting a wide spectrum of sonic tools that at times can feel like a meeting between Philip Glass and King Crimson.
Marquez is gearing up for an exciting 2025, releasing a new solo album alongside a debut project with the Ashe Mystics. His forthcoming works promise to blend his signature compositional style with the trio's adventurous improvisation, making it a year to watch for this innovative artist.
XTIE
Hong Kong's own XTIE is a Grammy-featured dynamo who is transforming pop into “cosmic pop” with her shimmering soundscapes and empowering narratives. This one-woman powerhouse crafts beats that sparkle while tackling themes of self-love, body positivity, and the beauty in our imperfections. The press incredibly well received her debut EP, APOLLO-23 and that’s not surprising at all once you learn that she’s one of the top female producers in the broader Asian music industry.
Fresh off a whole Christmas-themed EP release, XTIE is truly a busy bee, whose 2025 is already booked with producing for several artists while also releasing an album sometime in early summer and even touring. She’s truly not one to miss.
ALEXA KATE
Singer-songwriter Alexa Kate is all about forging connections through her music, which serves as a heartfelt bridge to and from her audience. New York is her home base, but she’s honed her craft in the musical melting pots of Nashville and Los Angeles, so she carries the cultural weight of these three great cities within her creative core.
Alexa Kate’s pet name for her music is heartache-pop—and she’s got plenty of heartaches to share this coming 2025, both through a string of planned singles, an EP (or potentially an album), and a whole bunch of live dates to be set.
NAOMI JANE
Naomi Jane isn’t just an amazing singer—she’s an even more extraordinary songwriter, and 2024 proved it beyond question. She won 1st place in the Teen category of the prestigious International Songwriting Competition for one of her most recent singles, “Little Miss.” That alone should tell you the caliber of an artist that she is.
Naomi Jane is set to shine in 2025. Kicking off with the release of two music videos from her debut EP, “sweet talk.” Catch "Like Like Love" dropping on January 10, followed by "Socks" on February 6. This spring, she’ll electrify playlists with her new single, "Lightning," while also crafting a sequel EP to “sweet talk.” With plans for live performances on the horizon, fans can look forward to experiencing her dynamic energy in an unforgettable, tangible way.
BEENWELL
Is it true that great haircuts lead to great music? Nobody’s ever said that, but they just might begin to once they hear BeenWell’s story: Ben Payton and William Duvall had a serendipitous meeting at a barbershop in 2020 that laid the foundation for BeenWell, an independent electronic dance music duo from Austin that’s already made waves with over 525K fans worldwide.
As they groove into 2025, they plan to drop a fresh single each month, spice things up with exciting collaborations. Plus, they’re ready to take their beats from the studio to the stage, starting with intimate DJ events locally and dreaming of dancing with audiences far and wide. Get ready for a year of rhythm and revelry!
CAROLINE KINGSBURY
Is it possible for pop to be both a vibe and a revolution? Caroline Kingsbury is proving just that! The queer 80s-inspired pop sensation has just dropped her EP “I Really Don't Care!”, earning coveted spots on Spotify’s young & free playlist and New Music Friday. After a sold-out release show in LA, she’s gearing up for an exciting 2025, supporting acts like Medium Build and Juliette Lewis, and embarking on a 25-date tour with Pom Pom Squad.
Caroline is set to make waves in early 2025 with fresh new music and a 25-date U.S. tour supporting Pom Pom Squad from February to April. Get ready to sing, dance, and catch her live!
JAY PUTTY
In the symphony of success, Jay Putty is hitting all the right notes this year. With his single "On My Way" soaring on Chicago’s WTMX and Sirius XM, he’s outshining stars like Shawn Mendes, boasting a 112% spike in Shazam.
As he eyes 2025, he plans to release a new single each month, aiming to create deeply resonant music and manifest a major talk show appearance. With every melody, he’s crafting a haven where listeners can feel truly seen and inspired.
ANTONIO LIRANZO
Antonio Liranzo is a pop star who artfully combines retro vibes with emotional depth, inviting listeners to experience a spectrum of feelings. His sound captures the essence of both melancholy and confidence, creating a captivating listening experience. As he sets his sights on 2025, Antonio envisions taking “Lover Boy” into uncharted territory, hinting at a musical journey that transcends the ordinary. This ambition suggests exploring vast themes and innovative sounds, promising to elevate his artistry to new heights. Get ready for a fresh perspective on pop that resonates on multiple levels.