Thanks to streaming and technology, there are millions of artists available for listeners to discover. However, as helpful as this seems, it is difficult for these independent artists to carve out a career. For the past six years, Spotify has developed the Fresh Finds Program to help launch careers of multiple artists such as Clairo, Omar Apollo, and 100 gecs.
Earlier this year, The Echo covered the class of artists such as Alameda, Carter Faith, Delaney Bailey, and Jhariah. Now, this class includes a wide range of styles from r&b, pop, Latin, and indie. Paired up with notable songwriters and producers, this class of Emlyn, Blondshell, Paty B, and Avenoir is just as talented as the previous group.
Emlyn
The Nashville-born L.A.-based alternative pop star has been on the rise ever since the release of her tracks “B.O.M.B” and “plot line.” Fans of the Midnights artist Taylor Swift will enjoy Emlyn due to the audible influence. Following the release of her charting debut album loneliest b!tch in america, she collaborated with veteran producer AlexV for “girl’s girls.”
When sharing her thoughts on being part of this Fresh Finds class, Emlyn had this to say: “Getting chosen as Spotify’s Fresh Finds pick this year is more than just a title to me. Only a little over a year ago, I made my first Fresh Finds playlist when I was just starting to release music so being recognized, now, in this way is a true honor. I've seen so many women I admire be selected for this in the past and to be part of this program means so much to me on a personal level.”
Avenoir
Those with their ears to the underground of r&b have all been talking about Avenoir. The Canadian singer-songwriter has a nostalgic, cool sound that resembles artists such as Static Major, Partynextdoor, Aaliyah, and Brent Faiyaz. With tracks such as “Shameless,” “Eve,” and “Tmw,” he has already collected over half a million monthly listeners. Collaborating with producer YmxBeats, they constructed the single “D4U.” Smooth drum hats that remind you of “One in a Million” and a flow to match Avenoir have a timeless style.
Paty B
Born in Miami and raised in Lecheria, Venezuela Paty B has always been surrounded by a wide variety of art, whether that be her Venezuelan-Dutch musician of a father or her involvement in ballet, theater, urban dance, and more at an early age. Releasing her first single “Peor Que Resaca'' at the beginning of 2021, she drew plenty of support. She has quickly garnered love from fans worldwide leading to the release of her debut studio album GOTEO in June of this year. Now with Fresh Finds, she once again collaborates with the Ecuadorian producer Kuinvi for “Brutal.” Electrifying and upbeat “Brutal” is only a hint of the talent she possesses.
Blondshell
Her dark and impure tone adjoined by a unique tempestuous and confessional lyricism creates the talent which is Blondshell. Based in L.A., but born in New York, singer/songwriter Sabrina Teitelbaum is a rising creative in the sound of indie music. Inspired by Tracey Chapman, Elliot Smith, Velvet Underground, and Patti Smith, her storytelling and hook writing are stirring. Joining Yves Rothman, they built the track which is “Cartoon Earthquake.”
When talking about Fresh Finds, Blondshell had this to say: “Being chosen for Fresh Finds is such an amazing opportunity for indie artists, and hopefully it helps more people connect with my music.”
Just like class, this group is oozing with potential. Now, thanks to this partnership with Spotify, they have an ever greater chance of making a name for their selves.
