John Newman

The English singer and musician John Newman is best known for his song “Love Me Again” which topped the UK Singles Chart this past July and managed a decent 59 on the US Billboard Hot 100. Soulful music pours out behind the main highlight, his equally heart-wrenching voice, in nearly every one of his songs. When he first appeared on American television on The Today Show, they called the him “the male Adele.” However, his unique sound graces the radio scene with something unnamable that only he can bring. After his third December single, “Losing Sleep,” from the album Tribute, he’s sure to spark some interest in the upcoming year.

ZZ Ward

The world of blues rock and light soul welcomes ZZ Ward, a new-coming Pennsylvania native. Breaking into the lesser known blues rock genre in 2012, ZZ Ward adds a new flavor to the world of soul by pairing up with Kendrick Lamar, Freddie Gibbs and the O’Mys on her debut album Til the Casket Drops. Performing her singles, such as “Put the Gun Down” and “365 Days”  on shows like “Good Morning America” and “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno”, ZZ Ward has slowly been making a name for herself and her signature fedora. Though a relatively new artist, her underground popularity has earned her a spot in the Coachella Music Festival lineup. 2014 just may be ZZ Ward’s breakout year.

Hoodie Allen

Steven Markowitz, better known as Hoodie Allen, worked at Google offices until he realized his passion was music. Completing the classic American Dream story, Hoodie Allen became a full time hip-hop rapper, pleasing fans everywhere. With his first mixtape release in 2008, Hoodie Allen’s fanbase gets bigger and bigger with every new set of songs he releases.

For a quick recap of some of his hits, listen to “No Interruption” off of the All American and “#WhiteGirlProblems” from the Leap Year mixtape. Be prepared to hear more of this talented and driven New York native soon.

Atlas Genius

Atlas brought alternative to the scene with their debut album When It Was Now that took a solid number 34 on Billboard 200 in February 2013. The three brothers are sure to please future audiences and fans with songs like “If So” and “Trojans,” which was called “a finger-snapping funk” in a The Burning Ear review.

Cole Swindell

Country artist Cole Swindell’s roots stem from the heart of the South, making his music the closest thing to modern Georgia we have. Having co-written several other country hits, Swindell is finally getting his taste of fame when his single “Chillin’ It” debuted at number five on the Billboard Hot Country Songs. Swindell opens for Luke Bryan on his upcoming tour, making Swindell a likely candidate for future hits.

Kodaline

For two of the members of Kodaline, it was friendship at first sight after they met when they were eight. Through several years of evolution, including the addition of two more members, we now have the finished product. Kodaline brings the topic of heartbreak to the alternative rock world with the help of their string instruments. With songs like “Love Like This” and “Brand New Day,” Kodaline appeals to plenty of audiences, making them a likely band to begin their Billboard chart climbing in the months to come.