If you’ve been paying attention to how the UK Underground scene has been taking off you’ll already be familiar with the likes of Natanya, dexter in the newsagent, Jim Legxacy and fakemink. This is where artists are breaking the mould, defying genre and creating electrifying earworms that incorporate a wide variety of their genres and influences.
Here are 10 more artists from the UK you should add to your playlist:
Sade Olutola
On innovative production that combines nostalgic synths with jerk drums - provided by Luca Santamaria - Sade pours her heart out in every part of the music. From the lyrics to the melody, whether she’s singing or rapping - her eccentric, poetic lyricism feels like it’s lifted straight from her diary.
For Fans Of Willow Smith, SZA
Listen to 2099
N4T
N4T’s ability to merge the sounds of Black British Music with his Ghanaian-Jamaican heritage are why he’s one of the most exciting artists in the UK right now. His delivery is unique, animated and full of energy. His music is always kaleidoscopic and vibrant regardless of whether the song is a party anthem or a harder rap track.
For Fans Of Lancey Foux, Aminé
Listen to YOU ONLY LIVE TWICE feat. Ace
@WAR
Twin brothers, J Sanc and Glasshousetenant are undoubtedly next up with their artist project @WAR. Their versatility ranges from softer, vulnerable sounds to harder rap sounds. They produce, sing and rap and create unique soundscapes through scattered sound effects and familiar samples.
For Fans Of Jim Legxacy
Listen to child of an immigrant
Nia Smith
If you love big voices, you’ll love Nia Smith. Her rich tone is the perfect vehicle for her honest, take no sh*t lyricism. Her soulful delivery tells me she’ll go on to birth some classics of our generation while still pushing the needle forward through compelling melodies and lush production.
For Fans Of Elmiene, Amy Winehouse
Listen to Get My Get Back
svn4vr
When I think of svn4vr I think of folky guitar, visceral emotion, themes of Christianity and a one of one, incomparable emo-tinged voice. We all know he’s someone special, because his music really makes us feel deeply. He often touches what it’s like to grow up in the digital age and asks burning questions that live deep inside us all.
For Fans Of Bon Iver, Mk.gee
Listen to veil
Amie Blu
If you’re ever in your feels, pressing play on any of Amie Blu’s music will reassure you you’re not alone. The raw vulnerability of her lyricism feels engulfed by drifting drums and effortless guitar chords, helping convey melancholy. If you find yourself a bit blue - no pun intended - Amie’s music is exactly what you need to hear to lift your spirits.
For Fans Of Faye Webster, Clairo
Listen to trees for the woods
kwes e
kwes e’s got this knack for making tunes that get stuck in your head that won’t sound like anything else in your rotation. His range is impressive - he blends jerk, melodic trap and sounds of the diaspora, nodding to his Ghanaian heritage. His autotuned vocals, fun flows and internet-native lyricism are what keep bringing his fans back.
For Fans Of YT, xaviersobased
Listen to entitled
BXKS
BXKS’ luxurious tone glides on any genre, she’s arguably one of the most versatile rappers in the UK. While her cadence and flow is rooted in grime, she’s tapped into sounds from all over the world. Ranging anywhere from gqom to bouyon, she’s stamped her musical passport and proved she can get the party started in any city.
For Fans Of Little Simz, Salimata
Listen to SING4ME
Ledbyher
Ledbyher’s bedroom drill took the underground by storm last year. Her unconventional singing-speaking delivery is what makes her stand out. She combines the weird and wonderful with jerk, ambient textures, grunge and neo-soul for a listening experience like no other.
For Fans Of 070 Shake
Listen to SNOW ON THE TABLE
Cikho
The feel-good bounce of Cikho’s music is colourful and vibrant. His pop melodies combined with groovy basslines help him to create the perfect soundtrack for sunny weather. He makes love songs that make you feel warm inside, like something you send your crush if you’re feeling a little shy.
For Fans Of Steve Lacy, Malcolm Todd
Listen to Crush On You
And here’s 10 more honourable mentions:
Ceebo
Moriah Mensah
New Beluga
Che Mario
Amil Raja
Moses Ideka
Uma Chetcuti
Stacy NKR
TRGOBRAZY
Young Eman
