Frequently, we discover ourselves immersed in our favorite artist’s music, yearning for more similar sounds. While no artist is an exact copy of another, musical influences often interplay, inspiring one another. Let’s explore some emerging artists carving their path with distinctive styles that may evoke nostalgia for your cherished favorites.
Lana Del Rey
Alexandra Savior
Alexandra Savior echoes Lana Del Rey’s ethereal style, captivating listeners with her sultry, angelic vocals and rich orchestral melodies within her own collection of love ballads. Savior is an American artist from Portland, Oregon, and she focuses on the alternative/indie genre. She first gained attention in 2012 after being publicly praised by Courtney Love who saw her performing covers on Youtube. While she’s a modern-day artist, her music style emanates a nostalgic feel of listening to vinyl and writing love letters.
The Weeknd
KayCyy
The Weeknd rose to fame for pioneering a new music genre referred to as “dark R&B.” His music defines this genre with a dark, atmospheric production blending elements of electronic, synth-pop and hip-hop. With this genre being fairly new, it can be hard to discover artists that match this unique style. Kenyan-American rapper and singer KayCyy is also successfully maintaining a deep, moody R&B style. His music achieves a haunting and emotive sound. Both artists have worked with producer Gesaffelstein.
Beyonce
Kari Faux
Beyonce has established herself as an icon with a remarkable ability to blend a wide range of genres — R&B, pop, hip-hop, soul, funk and house — seamlessly while infusing her own unique flair. American rapper Kari Faux’s music style can also be accredited for genre-mixing with her own infectious hooks and powerful vocal performances. Kari Faux adeptly reveals her multi-dimensional persona through her rap verses and hip-hop beats, exuding confidence and attitude while also effortlessly revealing her tender side with soulful singing and lyrical depth.
Taylor Swift
Lily Kincade
At just 22 years old, singer-songwriter Lily Kincade skillfully merges pop melodies with impactful lyricism, reminiscent of the accomplished Taylor Swift. Both share a talent for evocative storytelling in their compositions. Kincade describes her music style as crafting songs “for driving with the windows down,” offering a liberating experience where her melodies and lyrics intertwine. Her music exudes a sense of freedom, allowing listeners to process and release emotions through her heartfelt lyrics.
SZA
Kelela
Neo-soul, a subgenre of contemporary R&B, seamlessly combines the timeless essence of soul music with the rhythmic influences of hip-hop, rock, funk and electronic sounds. This rich musical blend finds expression in the works of artists like SZA. American singer Kelela’s music embodies the essence of neo-soul with her introspective and innovative style. Like SZA, Kelela delves into themes of self-reflection and love through her lyrics, accompanied by dreamy synths and intricate melodies that define the genre.
Kendrick Lamar
Fly Anakin
Rapper Fly Anakin emulates Kendrick Lamar’s authenticity and innovation through his experimental approach to rap. While rooted in traditional hip-hop elements, Fly Anakin isn’t afraid to push the boundaries with unconventional sounds and structures. Both in his wordplay and beats, Fly Anakin maintains a sense of authenticity, staying true to himself and his artistic vision. His verses often feature clever wordplay, vivid storytelling and introspective themes, reflecting on his personal experiences, struggles and observations of the world around him. He is the co-founder of Richmond hip-hop crew Mutant Academy.
Bad Bunny
Moonkey
Bad Bunny played a pivotal role in merging Latin trap and reggaeton, significantly contributing to the rise of Latin trap as a genre. Moonkey, a Latin trap artist, similarly channels a contemporary and urban sound in his music, characterized by slick production and modern influences. His tracks exude vibrant Latin energy, infused with a gritty rap sound.
Lady Gaga
Fever Ray
Fever Ray eccentrically expresses themself through their music just like Lady Gaga. Not only do they both define themselves with an elaborate name and fantastical looks, but their personalities both shine in their energetic, experimental rhythms and unique voices. Fever Ray is a Swedish experimental pop artist. They started their music career in the band Honey Is Cool before becoming a part of the musical duo The Knife with their brother Olof Dreijer. Throughout their musical journey, they have stayed true to themself and expressed what they’re thinking through their music.
