Spotify has officially unveiled its highly anticipated “Artists to Watch” list for 2025, offering a preview of the next wave of musical talent poised to make a significant impact across the globe. Each year, Spotify’s editorial team curates a selection of up-and-coming artists who they believe are about to reshape the landscape of contemporary music. With this year’s list, Spotify introduces a diverse mix of emerging voices, ranging from fresh pop sensations to experimental rock, R&B, and hip-hop innovators.
The artists on this list come from various corners of the globe, each bringing their unique cultural influences, musical backgrounds, and artistic expressions to the forefront. Spotify’s decision to spotlight such a wide spectrum of talent reflects the platform’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity within the global music scene. These up-and-coming stars aren’t just about catchy tunes—they’re telling stories that resonate with listeners, tackling personal experiences and societal themes, and pushing the boundaries of genre.
One standout among the new names is indie pop artist Alexis Hayes. Known for her ethereal vocals and introspective lyrics, Hayes has already generated buzz with a string of singles that explore themes of love, self-discovery, and mental health. With her breakthrough single “Never Let Go” climbing the charts in late 2024, Hayes’ distinctive sound is drawing attention from both critics and fans alike. Her unique approach to songwriting, combined with her ability to connect emotionally with listeners, has earned her a spot on Spotify’s coveted list.
Another artist to watch in 2025 is Juno Blaze, an up-and-coming rapper who fuses elements of trap, jazz, and electronic music into his sound. Juno’s bold and innovative approach to music production has garnered significant attention from music industry insiders. His lyrical style, which blends vivid storytelling with powerful social commentary, is expected to resonate with younger audiences, particularly those interested in conscious hip-hop. As his popularity grows, many are predicting that Juno Blaze will become a central figure in the evolution of the genre in the coming years.
Lila Sun, an experimental rock band hailing from Los Angeles, is another artist to keep an eye on. Known for their boundary-pushing sound that blends elements of punk, alternative rock, and electronic music, Lila Sun’s music has been described as both electrifying and thought-provoking. The band’s ability to create music that challenges conventions while remaining accessible to a wide audience makes them an exciting prospect for 2025.
Beyond these individual talents, Spotify’s list also includes several collectives and collaborations that are breaking new ground. The collective Sonic Pulse brings together a group of international artists to fuse reggaeton with electronic dance music, creating a dynamic and high-energy sound that’s already beginning to dominate clubs and radio stations. Their bold fusion of genres reflects the ongoing trend of cross-genre collaborations, which continues to thrive as artists seek to experiment with new sounds and push the limits of what music can be.
Spotify’s “Artists to Watch” list is more than just a prediction—it’s a celebration of musical evolution. It highlights the voices that are changing the way we think about music, and sets the stage for what’s to come in the new year. These artists are not just creating music—they are shaping the future of the industry. As we move deeper into 2025, fans can expect to hear a lot more from these rising stars, who are ready to leave their mark on the world stage.