Personally, TikTok has taken over as the go-to platform for music discovery, outperforming every other app when it comes to finding fresh sounds—whether it’s through viral trends or the almighty algorithm. But let’s be real: social media’s spotlight never stays in one place for long. With TikTok facing an uncertain future, it feels like the perfect time to shout out the artists who’ve been filling my playlists.
Some are rocking the blue check; others are still waiting for their big break. Either way, their music deserves your attention now—before TikTok potentially becomes just another relic of internet history.
1. Lola Young ☑️
Genre: Alternative/Indie
Thank you Sofia Richie! The whole album, This Wasn't Meant For You Anyway, is 🔥🔥🔥 and packed with raw, emotional storytelling that hits just right. It's been on repeat the past month. Lola Young’s album Tracks like “Messy” remind us that sometimes the best way to connect is to keep it real. Brands, take note: authenticity sells—and it sounds this good.
Track to Start With: “Messy”
2. Teezo Touchdown
Genre: Alternative/Indie
There are very few songs that accurately describe the culture zeigest of Gen Z, who have developed an allergy to late night partying in favor of a healthier lifestyle overall. His mix of tension between visual style and lyrical depth is a lesson for anyone crafting a brand: lean into contradictions—they make you memorable.
Track to Start With: “Nu Nay ”
3.Lawrence The Band ☑️
Genre: Pop
Lawrence The Band sounds like the opening track to an 80's sitcom about a hardworking family and I'm here for it. Their feel-good, nostalgic sound is proof that sometimes leaning into familiarity can make your work (or brand) even more impactful.
Track to Start With: “GUY I USED TO BE”
4. Badtuner + Hailes
Genre: House
If you're in the greater NYC area, you might recognize this song - It’s lowkey, reflective, and just the right amount of moody - so this was an obvious choice. Creators, take note: simplicity and mood can make a big impact.
Track to Start With: “Caught Up”
5. Sam Quealy ☑️
Genre: Electro pop
Sam Quealy’s ‘80s synth vibes and bold artistry offer a blueprint for staying true to your aesthetic while pushing creative boundaries.
Track to Start With: “WATCH ME NOW”
6.YellowStraps
Genre: UK Garage
Smooth, versatile, and unexpected—YellowStraps blends genres and languages seamlessly. Their track “Slowdown” is perfect for global brands or creators looking to appeal to diverse audiences. I'm surprised this artist hasn't been on Colors already.
Track to Start With: “Slowdown”
7. Tanner Adell ☑️
Genre: Country
Tanner Adell flips traditional country music on its head, bringing a fresh, playful energy that feels unmistakably modern. Her track “Buckle Bunny” proves that even niche genres can embrace reinvention— Love to see it!
Track to Start With: “Buckle Bunny”
8. Senseless Optimism
Genre: Indie pop
Senseless Optimism’s unique voice and melancholic yet uplifting vibe create a sound that lingers.“Lost My Mind” captures the beauty of embracing imperfection—a principle that both creators and founders can use to connect with their audiences authentically.
Track to Start With: “Lost My Mind (in yours)”
9. Aziya ☑️
Genre: Alternative/Indie
Aziya turned her fans into collaborators with her Big Ben video shoot, proving that co-creation isn’t just a buzzword— it’s a strategy. For brands and creators, it’s a reminder that letting your community in can elevate your work.
Track to Start With: “Atomic”
10. Leonie Gray
Genre: Soul
Leonie Gray gives us Amy Winehouse vibes with a contemporary twist. Her song “OMG” shows that timeless sounds can still feel fresh when paired with a relatable narrative. Creatives and Brands, think about how to modernize your classic elements.
Track to Start With: “OMG”
11. Ask Carol
Genre: Alternative/Indie
SXSW but no blue check? That’s a crime. Ask Carol proves that recognition isn’t always tied to quality. Founders and creators: keep putting in the work, and your audience will find you.
Track to Start With: “Wind In My Hair”
12. Lucky Love ☑️
Genre: Alternative/Indie
“Lova” is the perfect track for anyone looking to feel energized and reflective at the same time. (It's giving Woodkid, but for the dance floor.)
Track to Start With: “LOVA”
Honorable Mention — Gucci Pineapple
Genre: Alternative
Gucci Pineapple’s “Let’s Go 2 Trader Joe’s” is quirky, relatable, and the right kind of unserious—a perfect example of how to leverage personality in creative work.For brands, it’s a reminder that being a little less serious can make you a lot more memorable. I'm surprised TJ hasn't snagged them to do content.
Track to Start With: "Let's go 2 Trader Joe's”
Final Thoughts:
These artists are doing more than making music—they’re cultural signals, showing us how to stay relevant, experiment, and connect in a world that’s always scrolling.
Update your playlists, get some inspiration, and let’s see who makes the cut next month—assuming TikTok sticks around.