Join us as we delve into the Ones To Watch, the bands and artist’s that are set to shape our musical world in 2024
We’ve rounded up a bunch of artists that are about to make your playlists a whole lot cooler. From the hella fine tunes of Cowboy Malfoy to the feel-good vibe of South Summit, and the straight-up fire from 3%, it’s shaping up to be a great year.
So, whether you’re into indie-pop adventures or craving some hip-hop flair, we’ve got the lowdown on all the One’s to Watch who are about to drop the beats that will be on everyone’s lips.
Cowboy Malfoy: Indie pop perfection
Cowboy Malfoy, emerges as the first on our list of ones to watch in 2024. Under the moniker of Max Russell, this twenty-two-year-old trans non-binary artist, songwriter, and producer has become a serious force in the music scene. With their debut track, ‘How I’d Kill,’ sending shockwaves through NYU’s Clive Davis Institute, Cowboy Malfoy is poised for a Maggie Rogers-esque breakthrough. Keep your eyes peeled for their live performances in Melbourne and Sydney in January 2024, as they put to stage the work of a year dedicated to writing and production.
South Summit: A Cultural Fusion of Sound
Hailing from Perth, Australia, South Summit is a 5-piece band formed during the lockdowns of 2020. Their music, a blend of alternative rock, reggae, and indie influences, resonates with infectious good vibes. With three EPs already under their belt, including ‘Tales of the Yeti’ in 2023, the band has graced major festivals like Falls Festivals and Groovin The Moo. As they tantalize fans with hints of new music and a potential debut album in 2024, keep a close eye on their social media for updates and upcoming shows.
3%: Indigenous Hip-Hop Supergroup on the Rise
Prepare for the thunderous beats and incendiary rhymes of 3%, an indigenous hip-hop supergroup formed by firebrand MCs Nooky and Dallas Woods alongside vocalist Angus Field. Their single ‘Our People’ with a Presets flip has garnered major attention, even catching the ear of Chance The Rapper. Set to release a debut album via 1788 Records in 2024, 3% is a force to be reckoned with in the Australian music scene.
Carla Wehbe: A Total Mood of upbeat and Cathartic Tunes
Australia’s rising star, Carla Wehbe, is making waves with her latest single ‘You Make Me Sick.’ The track’s upbeat and cathartic nature showcases Wehbe’s impressive vocal chops, reminiscent of artists like Holly Humberstone. Having supported global superstars The Chicks on their Australian tour dates, Wehbe is proving to be a versatile and dynamic artist. With a promising trajectory and praise from major publications, she is undoubtedly among the ones to watch as we enter 2024.
J-MILLA: The Breakout Star of Australian Hip Hop
J-MILLA has been steadily ascending the ranks of Australian hip-hop since his 2019 track, ‘Unlock The System.’ With a string of stellar singles, festival performances, and a show-stopping live presence, J-MILLA is set to continue his ascent with a national tour in mid-2024. Stay tuned for more festival/headline appearances, and tune into the standout singles ‘Gammon’ and ‘On My Soul’.
JessB: Aotearoa Trailblazer Taking the World Stage
In November, Aotearoa trailblazer JessB announced her signing to Say Less, a joint venture with Warner Music Australia. Her latest single ‘Hold Me Down’ highlights JessB’s signature flow above melodic synths and rhythmic swagger. Collaborating with global stars like Saweetie, Doja Cat, and Baker Boy, JessB’s influence extends far beyond her homeland. With festival slots and a promise of more to come in 2024, JessB is a force pushing the boundaries of her sound and songwriting finesse.
ZPLUTO: Sydney’s Rising Hip-Hop Force
ZPLUTO is carving a niche in the Australian hip-hop scene, hailing from Sydney. Born in New Zealand but calling Sydney home since 2008, ZPLUTO draws inspiration from diverse artists like Michael Jackson, Queen, Maroon 5, and Nirvana. With the release of his latest single ‘IDC’ in December 2023 and a supporting role on Denzel Curry’s Australian tour, ZPLUTO is gaining recognition and building a growing fanbase. Rumors of a debut album or EP in 2024 suggest a promising year ahead.
LORA: Lo-Fi Indie Pop
LORA delivered her latest EP, ‘walls’ in July last year. Through heartfelt lo-fi indie pop, she fearlessly explores love, vulnerability, and self-discovery. Echoing artists like Gretta Ray and Birdee, tracks like ‘string’ and ‘trace’ lay bare the discomfort of vulnerability and the consequences of low expectations.
Stumps: Genre-Defying Sydney Trio
Sydney-based trio Stumps is a band to keep an eye on in 2024, especially if you’re a fan of indie, dance, pop, and rock blends. With their sophomore album, ‘Arcadia,’ releasing any hot second, the band is already receiving positive reviews for their genre-bending sound. Currently on an Australian tour supporting the album, Stumps is set to capture the emotions of a night out and potentially garner further international exposure.
Radio Free Alice: Melbourne’s Post-Punk Pioneers
Melbourne’s four-piece rock band, Radio Free Alice, formed in 2022, is making waves with their post-punk and alternative rock sound. Having released two singles, ‘Square’ and ‘Waste of Space,’ they’ve caught attention in the Australian music scene. Their recent 4-track compilation solidifies their status as one of Australia’s most exhilarating young bands. Watch out for their dynamic post-punk singles and their continued rise in the music scene in 2024.
Horsegirl (Chicago, Illinois): Lo-Fi Indie Rock Vibes
Closing our Ones to Watch list is Chicago’s trio, Horsegirl, bringing youthful energy and DIY vibes to the forefront. Their lo-fi indie rock sound is characterized by fuzzy guitars, playful melodies, and a carefree attitude. With the debut EP, ‘Versions of the Truth,’ receiving critical acclaim and sold-out shows across the US, Horsegirl is set to deliver more catchy tunes and energetic live performances in 2024.
In a year that promises to be a show of groundbreaking talent, these artists are the ones to keep a close watch on as they redefine the musical landscape in 2024.
