Artists To Watch In 2025

By: Yasmine Duhé

The first half of 2025 has already delivered breakout stars and viral anthems, but trust me — the next wave is coming fast. I sat down with a few of the most compelling emerging artists who are carving their lanes and setting the stage for a major year ahead. Whether you’re looking for innovative sounds, unforgettable performances, or future headliners, these are the names you’ll want on your radar for the rest of 2025, and beyond.

KAIRO

Nigerian-born, Houston-raised twin sibling duo KAIRO are one to watch. I first interviewed them virtually in late Fall, but when they opened for singer Hope Tala this past April in their hometown, I finally met them in person, and their presence was everything. Their blend of alternative R&B & Pop pulls from soulful roots and global influence, creating music that feels intimate yet expansive. With undeniable chemistry, intentional storytelling, and a growing fanbase, KAIRO is carving out a space that’s uniquely theirs.

Bo Staloch

Bo Staloch blends the heart of Texas with the soul of Tennessee, crafting music that feels like a journal entry whispered over soft instrumentals. When I spoke with him earlier this year, it was clear how much place and emotion shape his work. Tracks like “The Garden” and “Give It a Break” explore loss, peace, and the quiet in between. With a sound that balances melancholy and calm, Bo is carving a space that feels deeply personal, and it’s exactly why he’s an artist to watch in 2025.

Maya Delilah

Maya Delilah’s sound is a kaleidoscope of color—soul, jazz, and funk melting into something that feels both timeless and brand new. Her debut album is a genre-bending ride, but “Squeeze”? That track is pure magic. When we connected earlier this year, it was clear that Maya creates from a place of joy, freedom, and deep musical curiosity. She’s not afraid to have fun with her sound, and in a world full of copy-paste artistry, that’s refreshing. With her playful spirit and razor-sharp talent, Maya Delilah is absolutely one to watch in 2025.

Courtesy of UMG

If you’re not already tuned into Natalie Jane, now’s the time. The rising pop star has been making serious noise, and 2025 is looking like her biggest year yet.

On February 12, she wrapped up the North American leg of her Sick to My Stomach Tour right here in Houston at the Bronze Peacock Room. From start to finish, she brought nothing but high energy, closing out the show with the same passion that had fans singing along all night. Next up? She’s taking her tour overseas, kicking things off in London on March 1.

Natalie has been on a steady rise since dropping her second studio album, Sick to My Stomach, in September 2024. The project is packed with raw emotion and powerful vocals, proving she’s got the range to be a major force in pop music. One of the standout tracks, “The Top,” even landed a spot on the Netflix film UGLIES soundtrack just another sign that she’s here to stay.

With her undeniable talent and growing fanbase, Natalie Jane is definitely one to watch this year.

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