Under the radar - 5 artists to lstn. to this week.
CIL - Courtesy of Alondra Buccio
Let’s keep the ball rolling in this new year with five new fresh faces!
Olympia Vitalis (UK).
Olympia Vitalis is a West London-based soul and R&B singer-songwriter known for her rich vocal tone and thoughtful, socially aware songwriting. Born and raised in London, she drew early inspiration from gospel and jazz, singing in choir from a young age, and has since developed a sound that blends vintage soul with contemporary depth and lyrical insight. Her catalogue includes standout tracks like The Rush (featured on COLORS), Younger, Angel Patience and Painted Smiles, each showcasing her emotive delivery and nuanced storytelling. In 2024 she supported Baby Rose on UK and Europe tour dates and has shared stages with artists like Teddy Swims and Poppy Ajudha. Recognized by Dazed as one of the Top 10 Artists to Watch in 2025, Olympia continues to build momentum with a soulful, lyrically rich approach that bridges introspection and lived experience.
Cil (USA).
Cil (real name Cecilia Webber) is a Colorado-born, Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter whose blend of R&B and pop has captured major attention in 2025. She has opened for icons like Stevie Nicks and Dua Lipa, and her warm, emotive delivery sits at the core of projects like her 2025 EP don’t hold me accountable. With tracks such as pretty years and you’re a liar (you love me), she fuses soulful lyricism with catchy, rhythmic production. Cil has amassed over a million monthly listeners on streaming platforms, reflecting her growing global fanbase. Her evolving sound and live presence underscore her emergence as a standout voice in contemporary R&B and pop.
chlothegod (USA).
chlothegod (born Chloe Chavis) is an American singer-songwriter from Fayetteville, North Carolina, known for blending neo-soul, alternative R&B and rock-tinged influences into a genre-defying sound. She first released music independently in 2017 and later signed with EQT Recordings, expanding her reach with projects like Nearly Straight and the 2025 EP I Feel Different Every Day, which also received a deluxe edition. Her music reflects a wide range of influences, from Erykah Badu and Lauryn Hill to alternative rock, and is marked by honest, introspective lyricism and warm, expressive vocals. In 2025 she completed her first headline U.S. tour and appeared at festivals like Broccoli City and Aminé’s Best Day Ever, showcasing her rising live presence.
Denver (UK).
Denver is a Manchester-based British band blending R&B, pop and contemporary rhythmic sensibilities into a smooth, groove-oriented sound that’s gaining traction in the UK independent scene. Their recent single Don’t Leave Me Alone highlights warm vocal harmonies and approachable melodies that resonate with listeners drawn to modern, emotionally-driven pop. The group’s aesthetic and sonic identity lean into heartfelt lyricism and rhythmic flow, making them stand out among emerging UK acts. With a growing digital presence and streaming support, Denver is steadily expanding their fanbase and carving out space in the contemporary British pop/R&B landscape. Their latest work suggests a promising trajectory as they continue to refine their sound and connect with audiences.
nikko (USA).
nikko is a versatile artist and producer whose 2025 single PUSHINN has been gaining buzz across streaming platforms and DJ sets. Released on August 15, 2025 via Boom Records, PUSHINN blends dance and electronic elements with a groovy, rhythmic edge that’s made it a favorite among listeners on platforms like SoundCloud and Apple Music. Though still early in his career, nikko has built a diverse catalogue, from singles like GIMME THAT and POWER to energetic club-ready cuts, showcasing his range within electronic and rhythm-driven genres. PUSHINN stands out for its infectious energy and dancefloor appeal, marking another strong entry in his evolving sonic identity. With his growing presence across digital platforms and DJ communities, nikko continues to define himself as a dynamic voice in electronic music.