1. ASTR

ASTR is an electronic/alternative duo from New York City. The two blend electronic music, hip hop, EDM, and pop melodies into their sound. Their sound is sexy and their energy on stage is overwhelming. Watching the two perform is cinematic. The lead singer is almost overtaken by their music, and she performs as if there is no one watching. She’s eccentric and passionate on stage which ties into their edgy/dance-oriented music. While they may have a few shows throughout the festival, they are by far one of the better acts I’ve seen, and yet no one seems to be talking about them.

2. RAC

RAC stands for ‘Remix Artist Collective.’ The band is known mainly for their remixes, which they started creating to change the way songs were remixed. RAC takes the focus away from danceability and attempts to bring a different and interesting form of arrangements. In contrast, RAC’s sound holds a beat that would make one want to dance. His music is new, innovative, and exciting. If you haven’t already, you should check him out. We may all be overlooking the next big artist…

3. Yung Lean

Yung Lean is a Swedish rapper who first gained recognition from YouTube. Some people would say he’s not rap at all, while others can’t seem to get enough of him. While performing, he interacted with the crowd heavily, but not enough to distract himself from his music. His fans are some of the most passionate kids I’ve seen out there, and that is what will take this young rapper far in his career. It’s no doubt his beats are catchy, and his Swedish accent that comes out in some of his raps is refreshing from a lot of other rap.

4. Veritre

Not only is Verite one of the most overlooked performers of SXSW, but she is by far one of the best. Verite is a solo female vocalist who absolutely kills it while performing. Her talent radiates off of the stage.  Theatrically she is a little held back, but her vocals make up for any lack of dancing. Her sound is vast. In songs like “Echo” the beat is heavy, which contrast to her higher pitched vocals in the chorus. On the other hand, her song “Weekend” sounds more like a single you would hear on the radio. Give it time, but she will blow up.

5. Halsey

Halsey is another female vocalist who performs effortlessly beautiful tunes. Watching Halsey is something spiritual. Her music is emotional, dark, and captivating.  She walks around the stage without a care and sings like no one is in the crowd. Halsey really gives off that ‘wow’ factor. It’s like she doesn’t even try to be amazing, it just happens.