Being one of the music capitals of the world, Nashville musicians have so much to offer. With the music scene changing very quickly, there are so many artists on the rise to look out for in 2020 who will undoubtedly take the world by storm.
Follow our playlist below to hear all the featured artists!
1. 2’Live Bre
2’Live Bre is one of Nashville’s most beloved rappers. He starts the party no matter where he is, whether it’s a Waffle House or a main stage performance. This year he was featured on the fantastic new show by Netflix called “Rhythm & Flow”. Receiving an immediate stamp of approval after his audition: T.I., Quavo, & BigBoi sent him to Hollywood to compete with the best talent in the country. Bre is additionally a noticable member of the Nashville community, and often enjoys giving back to express his gratitude for the town’s recognition.
2. Ash Leone
Ash Leone definitely got the town talking after appearing as a featured artist on Dave East’s latest album, Survival. Following that feature, she dropped her first single Physical. Ash’s sound is reflective of the great Kehlani, very melancholy and calmly overwhelming.
3. Kent Osborne
Kent Osburne comes from Atlanta, but is one of the artists helping put Nashville on the map with a booming hip-hop scene. From performing at do-it-yourself gigs to Halloween festivities at Third Man Records, it’s pretty likely you’ll catch him one night if you’re out regularly. His music combines elements of classic punk, hip-hop, and intensities found in metal music – bringing a rage and energy creating incredible hype; although, this doesn’t mean he doesn’t know how to slow down a ride a beat. If his spotify profile were to display “Fans Also Like”, we imagine it would display: Denzel Curry, Ice Cube, Sheck Wes, and Brockhampton.
4. Bren Joy
While Bren Joy achieved a steady following throughout his college years, releasing his first project shortly following his graduation and received an emense amount of support from peers and fans alike. He managed to wrap 2019 with over 3.3 million plays on Twenties and has only had sold-out shows since it’s release, even performing as the opening act for Megan Thee Stallion when she came to perform at Vanderbilt University and will be on stage at Hangout Music Festival 2020.
5. Adia Victoria
Coming from South Carolina, Adia Victoria has traveled around the world (primarily USA & Europe) searching for a proper place to call home. Originally a poet and author, her musical career was sparked when a friend in Georiga gifted her a guitar for her 21st birthday. Finally settling in Nashville, she has perfected her gothic indie sound – inspired by the “sounds of the South” (blues and country). Several of her early EPs were sung entirely in French, which could be considered odes to her life abroad. Adia has been in the studio with noticable producers since 2014, perfecting her master pieces which makes us excited for her future.
6. Dreamer Boy
Dreamer Boy made his debut to the world with his highly acclaimed album, Love, Nostalgia. Following it’s release, he had several successful shows in Nashville and a notable performance at Hangout Music Festival 2019. Following Hangout, he embarked on tour – supporting Clairo on her european tour this fall/winter season.
7. Maniia
To put it simply, everyone knows and loves DJ Maniia. His style reminds me of a younger version of Kaytranada. When we asked our followers who to look out for in 2020, Maniia won the popular vote by far. Being well known for performing at a variety of underground events in Nashville put on by venues/performers such as Clean Boy Promotions, Altru Creative, and Terminal 8, Maniia is a name who’s reputation represents a guaranteed good time and fun vibe.
8. Coco Kinnon
The runner up of our popular vote is the sweet and fierce Coco Kinnon. Her strong, nostalgic, and woeful voice will rock your world and her creative lyrics will keep you singing along to the melodies she creates. Her on-stage presence could be considered a portrayal of a modern, youthful Stevie Nicks.
9. Jade Million
Probably the lost member of The Internet, Jade’s voice will sooth you like a cup of tea. Her music demonstrates how her voice has a very enchanting sound, accompanied by decorative production. Jade has made significant strides this year for her career, from a sold out show at Van Dyke to being a headliner at Breakaway Music Festival; we are sure Jade has a lot in store for 2020.
10. Anastasia Elliot
With unforgettable, bright, purple hair, Anastasia’s voice is incredibly operatic and explosive. Growing up being trained in classical music, Anastasia’s art matured as her music explores the depths of insanity and beauty of life as it addresses traumatic experience. Supported by pop-rock sounds and symphonic details, her voice is powerful and hauntingly beautiful.
11. Daisha McBride
We’re not the first to name Daisha McBride as one of the artists to watch in 2020, yet she has guaranteed her place in the spotlight after a busy year. She’s created quite a following for herself, performing frequently in Nashville. Following the release of her latest project Wild, it’s only a matter of time before she blows up. This album marks a transitional period for Daisha, noting her recent experiences and will to remain true to herself throughout chasing her dreams.
12. Bre Kennedy
Bre Kennedy has had the opposite of a quiet year in Nashville. From performing at Pilgrimage Festival, to an upcoming headlining show at Exit/In, she is swiftly on the rise. Her music is very dreamy and heavenly, perfect for a relaxing afternoon or evening.
13. Talia Stewart
The dark pop queen of Nashville broke the internet as she posed painted blue, head-to-toe completely naked for the cover of her latest album, Confessional. Following an ecstatic performance at Nashville’s very own Mercy Lounge in October with a full crowd, she has been working silently on upcoming projects with the world wanting more.
14. Soy Milk Boy
Soy Milk Boy’s music sounds like it could accompany a movie based in the 80s or early 90s. With heavily distorted guitars and smooth, charming lead female vocals, this band would fit perfectly on a line-up such as Shaky Knees Festival or Pilgrimage Festival.
15. Parrotfish
After an incredibly busy year in 2019, we can only hope to see Parrotfish appear on even more festival line-ups in the new year. Their last performance in Nashville for 2019 was at The End – which was easily the most packed we’ve ever seen the quaint, beloved dive bar/venue. These boys are an absolute riot on stage, and incredibly funky in the studio. For those who are fans of groups like Red Hot Chili Peppers and Sublime, you won’t want to miss out on the next Parrotfish show in town.
Top 15 Artists To Watch In 2020: Nashville – The Playlist
We’ve curated a playlist featuring a couple songs from each artist mentioned above, save it to your library to keep for later – and be sure to follow the one’s you like on Spotify and Instagram to support.
Joe
3 years agoThe Morning After crew should have been on this list YouTube that name and thank me later 🤷♂️