Music Year In Review & Who To Look Out For In 2019
The beginning of the year we witnessed Dua Lipa’s domination over the pop world, releasing hit after hit with the likes of “IDGAF” and her Calvin Harris collab “One Kiss” being our summer anthem. She was an unstoppable force.
The Arctic Monkeys released their first album since 2013, and we also saw the growing popularity of hip hop artists such as Cardi B, Post Malone and Drake.
The artist with the biggest impact in the charts in 2018 was arguably Ariana Grande. Her music released later in the year had the biggest influence, with tracks like “Thank U, Next” becoming the fastest song in Spotify history to surpass 100 million views. Meanwhile the iconic, star-studded music video broke YouTube records for being the most viewed music video within 24 hours of its release.
Sadly, 2018 came with both its ups and downs, with the loss of many great artists, from rapper Mac Miller, to the legendary Aretha Franklin, to DJ and producer Avicii.
With the year drawing to a close, here’s who to look out for in 2019…
Tom Grennan
2018 was a great year for the 23 year old British singer songwriter. Still riding off the popularity from his previous releases such as “Something in the Water” & “Found What I’ve Been Looking For”, this year saw the release of his debut album Lighting Matches and sold out shows across the UK and Ireland. Currently in the studio working on his 2nd studio album, I’m confident it will be another big record, maybe this time with a little more recognition.
Khalid
Not exactly new on the scene but definitely not one who will be fading into the background any time soon. His pop anthems are laced with 80’s synths and this year saw his collabs with the likes of Shawn Mendes and Halsey. Check out his latest EP “Suncity” for some chilled, somber melodies with an R’n’B influence.
Dermot Kennedy
Our own homegrown talent and who is making a name for himself in Ireland and across the pond. Despite not having yet released an album he’s selling out shows all over the world and has been dubbed by YouTube as one of the artists destined for success in 2019 after having made their “Ones To Watch” list. His raspy voiced teamed with folky guitar strings is enough to make anyone to become hooked. Make sure to listen to the powerful tune “Glory”, you’ll be happy you did.
Lewis Capaldi
Describing himself as a “chubby guy who sings sad songs” is, while self depreciating, also kinda true. The 21 year old Scotland native released his first single “Bruises” with great success, garnering almost 93 million plays on Spotify at present.
Ella Mai
The Londoner R’n’B singer brings a retro vibe to her songs and she’s definitely one to keep an eye on for the coming year. “Naked” will give you all the feels.
Drax Project
A 4 piece band from Wellington, New Zealand, who first gained attention with their cover of Macklemore’s Thriftshop. Intertwining their pop sound with elements of electronic drum & bass, their sound is unique and their 2017 single “Woke Up Late” has all the factors of a summer bop.
Bülow
The German born singerreleased her first EP “Damaged: Vol 1” in 2017 with a follow up EP “Damaged: Vol 2”. Her alternative/pop sound is addictive, listen to “Not A Love Song”, and thank me later.
Sigrid
Chances are you have already heard of the name floating about, and it’s not surprising why. 2018 was a huge year for the young Norwegian singer. She spent her year playing shows and festivals across the world, while her songs were blasted among every radio station in the country. Next year she is expected to release her long awaited and highly anticipated debut album. She also plays her biggest Irish gig yet at the 3Arena next November. Grab a ticket if you can!
Soulé
Anothergrowing name who is flying the flag for Ireland. She recently played Longitude where her set was full of catchy pop tunes with impressive choreographed dance routines. “What Do You Know” and “Troublemaker” are her most popular songs on Spotify, both with well over 1 million listens. With immense potential we hope to see her make a bigger impact on the Irish music scene in 2019.