Back with a bang! Each month I share 5 artist with less than five thousand Instagram followers I want you to listen to.
With summer and most of the year, being pretty lacklustre one thing that hasn’t let me down is the musical talent in the UK. As we head to the final quarter of 2020, here are artists I’m currently listening to and want to shout out.
INFAMOUSIZAK
IG: @infamousizak 4k (September, 2020)
The rising star everyone needs to know about! Infamousizak is a captivating and self-sufficient artist from the talent rich South London streets. Handling all the elements of his music, Infamousizak prides himself on making high level pieces of art. It’s very hard to put the rapper in a genre specific box. From his debut release ‘Awks’ to his most recent track ‘Used To It’ you hear influences across the spectrum of grime, rap, wavey sounds and melodies.
With many co-signs from the likes of NME, Clash and Stormzy, Infamousizak has already caught the attention of key players in the music scene. His 2019 project ‘Deep The Night’ is the perfect introduction to a fresh UK sound. Infamousizak will definitely be a leader in years to come.
My Favourite Song: PUBLIC ENEMY
Also check out: Deep The Night EP
BINA
IG: @binaofficial 2.8k (September, 2020)
One of the reasons I started this feature was for artists like BINA! Alternative RnB with hints of jazz and neo soul, Bina is truly captivating.
One of the UK’s hidden gems, BINA is an artist I have no problem with giving my ears to. Her velvet vocals and delicately strummed guitar are the perfect mix for easy, yet conscious listening.
Already supported by key tastemakers like Jamz Supernova, BINA is a one of a kind artist. One of my new favourite pass times is scrolling through her Instagram listening to her covers and rough song ideas. Add BINA to your playlist!
My favourite: Dark Cloud
Also check: Humble Abode EP
WAX
IG: @wax1up 1.1k (September, 2020)
In one word. Individuality! Wax is an eye-catching vibe maker. Flowing very clean over ambient rap beats, Wax mixes word play with cheeky lyrics while telling his story at the same time. An artist and producer, the East-Londoner announced himself to the scene earlier this year, with NSG and Keeya Keys already included in his growing fanbase.
Part of the 1Up family Wax has already collaborated with Tay Jordan and former 5 Under 5 feature Moko, keeping him in very good musical company. I’m excited and intrigued to see where Wax takes his sound next.
My favourite: Jurgen Klopp
Also check: In and Out
FRENZY
IG: @frenzolaa 3.2k (Septmeber, 2020)
Meet Hackney representer Frenzy! Versatile through heavy rap beats to more bright and bouncy sounds, Frenzy places his environment in the centre of his music. His 2019 album ‘Murder Mile‘ showed the roots of his area being merged with his own modern-day personal experience. His story definitely worth listening to.
A well respected figure within the UK underground music scene, Frenzy furthers the conversations on Murder Mile through his latest EP ‘Council Estate‘. Easy listening, yet still powerful, make sure if you take in his lyrics properly. I’m excited to see Frenzy develop his music further.
My favourite: 48th Floor
Also check: Council Estate
SUMMER BANTON
IG: @summerbanton_ 2.2k (September, 2020)
When it comes to the new wave of UK RnB, Summer Banton is definitely one to watch. The sweet singer/songwriter recently landed her first ever BBC Radio 1 air play for her track ‘Go Away’ just a year after the release of her debut single.
Although influenced by the likes of Alicia Keys and Lauryn Hill, I really like how ‘UK’ her voice is.
Straight out of South-East London, Summer enjoys exploring different sounds within her own music. From dancehall tones on Go Away, to UK Garage vibes on ‘Wake You Up’, Summer has started to create her own unique lane.
My favourite: Go Away
Also check: Summary