Figuring out the breakout artists of the year is almost impossible, especially thanks to social media and streaming. Last year, artists like Glorilla, Ice Spice, Steve Lacy, Yeat, and others were almost impossible to ignore. Now that 2023 has kicked off, here are the potential breakout artists of the year.
Q
Steve Lacy was a phenomenon in 2022. At the beginning of the year, he was already considered a prized R&B artist by a handful of fans. However, overnight he seemed to become a star. If anyone is to have a similar breakout year, it is without a doubt Q.
First gaining attention in 2020 for his tender falsetto and his hit single “Take Me Where Your Heart Is,” he seems to be coming back with a project soon after releasing 80’s inspired singles “Stereo Driver” and “Today” near the backend of 2022.
From his beautiful voice and multi-talented production, he is one viral song away from becoming the next big thing.
Ayra Starr
While afro-pop is already a well-established and popular music genre worldwide, the US has always been behind when it comes to this sound. Each year around the summer, a new African artist grabs the country's attention like Wizkid, Tems, and Davido. However, 2023 might be Arya Starr’s year.
At only 20 years old, the Nigerian singer has already amassed five million followers and plenty of co-signs. Though she is not underground, she deserves a higher level of stardom.
While she recently released the deluxe version of her debut project “19 & Dangerous” in Oct. 2022, it is expected that more work will be on the way.
Enchanting
Texas has always been a home to rap, from the Chopped & Screwed era to artists like Megan Thee Stallion and Travis Scott. However, the rapper Enchanting, signed to Gucci Mane’s label, has been garnering attention.
Already collaborating with artists like the late Big Scarr, Kali, and Hitt Kidd, she already has plenty of support.
After seeing artists like Glorilla, Lola Brooke, Lakeyah, and Kali blow up, it is hard to see the same not happen for a hard hitter like Enchanting.
Homixide gang
While the original trap genre that controlled the sound of the 2010s has slowly fallen off its throne, the subgenres within it have gained a cult following.
One of them is the new wave of artists inspired by Playboi Carti and his label Opium. Though the label contains acts such as Ken Carson and Destroy Lonely, the stars are for certain the Homixide Gang.
The rock-inspired duo has been all fans could talk about since their album “Homixide Lifestyle'' was released. Featuring intense, upbeat, and chaotic energy, fans can see the similarities to Carti. If they continue this momentum, their fanbase will, without a doubt, force them into the public eye.
While none of this is guaranteed, what is unavoidable is that these artists have what it takes. Still new to the industry, and with plenty of music still in the vault, the potential these artists have is outstanding.
