Top 5 Musicians to Watch in 2025
Omar Apollo
As we step into 2025, the music industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace, with fresh talent bringing innovative sounds and new ideas to the forefront. From genre-defying producers to boundary-pushing vocalists, here are the top 5 musicians to keep an eye on in the year ahead. These rising stars are making waves in both the mainstream and underground scenes, and they are poised to leave their mark on the global music landscape.
1. Lola Brooke – The Queen of East Coast Hip-Hop
Lola Brooke has already made waves in 2024 with her unapologetic style and raw lyricism. Hailing from Brooklyn, New York, the rapper has been gaining attention for her confident delivery and powerful storytelling. Her breakout single, "Here I Come," is an anthem for self-empowerment, and her unfiltered approach to addressing themes like resilience and street life has connected with a wide audience. With an impending album release and major industry support, 2025 is poised to be Lola's year.
2. FINNEAS – The Artist and Producer Who Does It All
Already known as the genius behind Billie Eilish’s success, FINNEAS is stepping into the spotlight as an artist in his own right. After dominating the charts with hits like "What They'll Say About Us," his upcoming solo projects are expected to take his indie-pop sound even further. 2025 will see him continue to experiment with minimalistic production and emotionally charged lyrics, a combination that has already made him a beloved figure in the music world. As both a producer and a performer, FINNEAS is one to watch in the coming year.
Seori
3. Seori – South Korea's Indie-Pop Sensation
Seori, a South Korean singer-songwriter, has been steadily building a name for herself with her blend of dreamy indie-pop and electronic music. Known for her haunting vocals and introspective songwriting, Seori's music resonates with fans around the world, particularly in the international alternative scene. Her 2025 album promises a deeper exploration of her personal experiences, fusing electronic elements with vulnerable lyrics that have captured the hearts of many. As her fanbase grows, expect Seori’s name to become synonymous with indie-pop excellence.
4. Omar Apollo – A Genre-Bending Dreamer
Omar Apollo’s fusion of R&B, pop, and Latin influences has made him a standout talent in recent years. With his soulful voice and ability to craft songs that cross cultural boundaries, Apollo is positioned to have a huge impact in 2025. His debut album, Ivory, earned widespread acclaim, and he continues to gain momentum with his experimental approach to music. Whether he's collaborating with industry heavyweights or developing his own unique sound, Omar Apollo's versatility makes him one of the most exciting artists to watch this year.
5. Raye – The Rising Pop Star Who’s Taking Control
After years of behind-the-scenes songwriting success, Raye is ready to claim her place as a global pop sensation. In 2025, Raye is expected to unleash more of her emotional, genre-blending pop tracks. With a newfound sense of independence following her departure from major label constraints, Raye’s music is a refreshing mix of catchy hooks and deeply personal lyrics. Tracks like "Escapism" have already earned her critical acclaim, and her follow-up projects are sure to solidify her as one of the year’s biggest breakout stars.
Raye
As the music industry evolves, these five artists represent the future of music in 2025. Their innovative sounds, boundary-pushing styles, and unique voices are sure to influence the culture for years to come. Keep an ear out for their upcoming releases, as they’re likely to shape the soundtracks of the future!