How to discover new artists before they blow up
Finding new music doesn’t have to mean waiting for an algorithm to hand you the next big thing. Some of the best discoveries happen when you look just a little beyond what you already know.
Start with the artists you already love.
Look at who they tour with, which artists they recommend and what labels they release music through. One favourite artist can easily lead you to five more.
Pay attention to the opening slot.
Support acts are one of the easiest ways to discover someone new in the right setting. Arrive early, give them a proper listen and save the name if something catches your attention.
- Explore radio shows and DJ mixes
- Check smaller venue calendars
- Follow independent labels
- Read artist interviews and recommendations
- Save unfamiliar names from festival line-ups
Give new music a little time.
Not every artist clicks within thirty seconds. Try a few songs, listen in a different setting and come back later. Sometimes the music that takes the longest to land ends up staying with you the longest.
The fun part isn’t being able to say you knew an artist first. It’s finding something that feels exciting before it becomes familiar.
