All of the Best Artists You Probably Won’t Hear on the Radio
The spotlight has a habit of shining solely on the same few faces over and over again. Today let’s take a moment to acknowledge all of the best artists you probably won’t hear on the radio! I’ve made a habit of giving underrated and underrepresented talent a place to shine on Violet Roots. Things change from time to time but if you’ve been following along for a while then you know that’s one of the few things that hasn’t.
Nothing against Rihanna or Gaga but I think they get enough press already. If you turn on the radio you’re bound to hear the same few artists grace the airwaves over and over again. In fact, I’m convinced that Drake is not only just a popular rapper among DJs but is also a radio requirement. Try to go on a road trip without hearing a Drake song play and I’m positive you’ll find it next to impossible.
I don’t say all of this because somehow it’s only worth something if it’s not on the radio. I’m not taking some weird hipster stance that it’s only cool if no one else knows about it. Screw that ideology! However what I am trying to say is that yes, that Drake song you’ve heard on literally every radio station at the top of every hour is good. Same goes for the 4 other songs by him or that feature him that you’ll inevitably also hear on the radio.
It comes down to this. The thing is, all of those repeat song plays just show me how many opportunities are missed to expose people to other musical talents. (Click to Tweet) There are so many incredible artists in the world. Take a moment to find them and appreciate them!
Best Underrated Talent Playlist
Below I’ve rounded up a list of all the best artists you probably won’t hear on the radio. You’ll find a link to all of the music content on VR with a heavy focus on underrated talent. If you want your mainstream fix then feel free to peruse the general music archives!
This list will continue to grow as I attend more concerts, festivals and feature more artist spotlights on rising talent so make sure to check back! If you’d like to listen on the go then check out my latest featured playlists on Spotify to get your #VRxMusic fix!
Festival Highlights
Festival season is my forever happy place. I try to go to at least one every summer and this year I’m headed to Panorama in NYC! It takes place after my big move from the area so it will be nice to hop back up north to have some fun.
Here you’ll find a list of all the festival features that include rising stars and under the radar musicians. Of course, depending on when you read this who might be considered a hidden starlet today may end up being seen as a big deal tomorrow. If that happens, you know who to thank for pointing you in the direction!
2017
Emerging Acts at Lollapalooza || Coachella
2016
Underrated Acts at Governors Ball
Must See Acts at Outside Lands || Lollapalooza || Panorama
2015
Governors Ball Music Festival Day 1 || Day 2 || Day 3
Concert Highlights
Want something more detailed? When it comes to festivals the coverage tends to be more overview style but on VR you’ll find a deep dive into the concert experience of each featured artist. Often in intimate settings and at times held at secret free shows, you’ll get the feel of what it felt like to be in the crowd and in the moment.
2016
Troye Sivan & Dua Lipa at Terminal 5
Melanie Martinez at Webster Hall
The Hush Sound Anniversary Tour
2015
Atlas Genius & Joywave at Summerstage
Bands You Should Know
Sometimes bands are brand spanking new and other times they’ve been around for ages and still haven’t made major waves. Not everyone is destined for the Hot 100 charts but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t get the attention they deserve.
Bands that Should be Way More Famous
Female Artists You Should Know
I will forever champion a female artist with a music catalog that happens to have my name written all over it. For me, there really is nothing better than discovering a new songstress with a clear style and a distinct message. Below you’ll find a bounty of female talent and a welcome respite from the monotonous tone of the music industry.
Female Artists You Need to Know in 2017
Female Artists to Watch in 2016
Male Artists You Should Know
A lot of the focus on VR falls on the female experience and the female influence. Still, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t any male artists that could use some extra love! Check out songs from artists with smooth vocals, electro beats, alternative R&B vibes and a heavy hand in their musical direction!
Share your thoughts on all the best artists you probably won’t hear on the radio!