We’re now more than half way through the roll-out of Vevo’s Artists To Watch 2018 – and it’s time to meet the latest crop of artists being tipped by the platform for big things next year.
From the UK Vevo dscvr team, we’re introduced to Tayá, a singer-songwriter from Liverpool, and Col3trane, a young UK R&B artist who has drawn comparisons to none other than Frank Ocean.
Meanwhile, from the US list, we introduce hotly tipped Berklee grad, Ashe, and country music breakthrough star Jillian Jacqueline…
Discovered aged 13 after attending a local choir, Liverpool singer-songwriter Tayá has spent the past few years perfecting her craft behind-the-scenes, but 2018 should be the year she truly breaks through.
When Ur Sober, a collaboration with fellow dscvr tip Yxng Bane, is a pristine emotional rollercoaster about love on the rocks. It swiftly earned her a support slot on Zara Larsson’s UK tour, playing arenas across the UK.
Claudia de Wolff, Vevo’s VP, creative content & programming, UK & international, says: “Taya is a seriously assured R&B hitmaker who has made some big steps this year.”
Col3trane Label: Unsigned Management: Tap Management
Make no mistake, it’s nigh on impossible to compare anyone to Frank Ocean. But if any newcomer comes close to the one-of-a-kind talent, it’s Col3trane. Real name Cole Basta, the Birmingham-raised, London-based newcomer trades in gorgeous, evocative alt-R&B.
On 2017 track Penelope, he shows there’s way more to his game than lulling, loved-up coos. Easing in with lush guitars and moody pianos, the song breaks form to become a razor-toothed, fidgety, percussive beast. Head-turning debut mixtape Tsarina is an essential listen, coming off like the blueprint plans of a future superstar.
De Wolff says: “This alt-R&B newcomer is getting a lot of attention. He’s been working with some amazing producers, including SG Lewis – having heard some new music, we are really excited for his 2018.”
Ashe Label: Mom + Pop Management: Sean Shehan, day-to-day (Working Group Management); Dirk Hemsath, President (Working Group Management)
The Berklee grad who goes by the single name Ashe isn’t shy about sharing her talent – her vocals have appeared on tracks by DJ/production duo Louis the Child, Vancouver-based house producer Shaun Frank, and producer Whethan, to name a few.
But Used to It, her wildly catchy 2017 single, is all Ashe – and its power reveals her strong grip on the art of pop design, combining conversational verses with a thumping chorus that’s made for singing along.
JP Evangelista, Vevo’s head of music & talent says: “Alt-pop savant Ashe is an expert at addictive melodies, and her Used to It combines conversational verses with a thumping chorus that’s made for singing along.”
Jillian Jacqueline Label: Big Loud Records Management: McGhee Entertainment
There’s a bit of swag in the air when Jillian Jacqueline stands in front of a mic. She exudes it…and she’s earned it. Though still a new artist to the world at large, the country music upstart’s rather irresistible Reasons has been pure fire on Spotify of late.
The piercing breakup song has clocked over 11M streams.
Even better? There’s more strong songs where that came from. The best part is she’s a bit of wiseacre, too. In one of her catchiest songs, Jacqueline lets the normal kids cheer from the stands while she has her fun under the bleachers.
We’re thinking she’ll get a little higher than that real soon.
Evangelista says: “Jillian Jacqueline is a cool country upstart with a dash of swag that separates her from the pack in Nashville. Her killer breakup song “Reasons” will tear at your heart.”
