TEAM PICKS THEIR FAVORITE ARTIST’S OF 2022
As the year comes to an end, Xander and IJR list their top 5 artist of 2022!
Xander’s Top Five
Mike Dimes - Mike dimes is definitely one of the futures of the next generation . Coming from Texas I knew he’d be special the moment I listened to “In Dimes We Trust” and he just keeps getting better. With dimes like “Home” and “who is mike dimes” you can see such a great versatility.
Midwxst -Edgar is such a fun presence in my library right now. With such catchy Melodie’s and a great project with “better luck next time.” The future is very bright for midwxst and I can wait to see it.
Kaycyy - I mean what can I say, from such an addictive voice to some amazing projects like “get used to it” “TW20 50” and “who else would it be” the momentum that kaycyy set is crazy.
Bryan Bliss - Breyan was an artist i discovered this year and immediately was intrigued. With a solid couple of singles in the first half of the year, Breyan was a great find, but it wasn’t until his EP “Midnight Fervor” that he was really solidified as one of my favorites.
Andrew Kelly - When we talk momentum, no one does it like Kelly, alone in 2022 he dropped 5 full length projects that somehow are amazing in their own respect. His last one however “Kelly” was is most cohesive and jaw dropping work.
IJR’S Top Five
Voda fuji - Vodafuji really captivated my attention this year, through releases like his song “taurine,” which borrows elements from various influences, especially hyperpop. You can always expect to hear something refreshing from this artist, as his beat selection is unmatched in my opinion, ranging anywhere from your typical hip hop beats, to some extremely bubbly and friendly electronic and rhythmic sounds. Always sounding cool and confident, Vodafuji was definitely my favorite this year.
Thankujonah - Jonah has really come into his own since adopting his new artist name this year, proving that he’s more than just an underground artist. There isn’t a style of music that the Minnesota creative is scared to take on, from impactful original material, to stellar guest work, thankujonah had me excited for his new releases year round.
Skaiwater - Skaiwater was someone i had heard of all year long thanks to popstar Lil nas x who put on for this artist a bunch, but interestingly enough, I only came to be a fan a few months ago. As I came to know and love Jersey club sound, I came to love his unique style of vocal performance over these driving beats, and in the latter half of the year, this element became very important to me thanks to Skaiwater.
Montell fish - Montell fish is the perfect artist for when you’re sad, or falling in love, or when you need a song that will bring you closer to God? Well this year I found all of those to be true, as this artist is one that tackles all those moments and more. And sure there are plenty of artists that tackle those same topics, but no one that sounds quite as vulnerable or sincere while doing it. I don’t exactly know how to explain it rather than saying that Montell’s music sounds like what receiving a warm hug feels like.
Koi - Koi is an artist that I’ve been following for about two years now, and with every year he manages to stick with me in a way that no artist does. It could be his incredibly smooth, confident deliveries, or his charming vocal tone, or his honest depiction of himself and his flaws through his music, but Koi is an artist that tells it to you how it is, but with style.
