As part of the Artists to Watch initiative, On Our Radar is a quarterly series dedicated to highlighting emerging stars who are making significant waves in various genres. For this quarter’s spotlight, attention turns to the dynamic world of indie pop—a genre where creativity flourishes and unique voices are constantly redefining the soundscape.
These five artists are particularly poised for considerable impact, and you’ll find their tracks, and many more from similar rising stars, featured on the Commuter Trax: POP playlist.
Discover the indie pop stars poised to redefine the listening experience:
1. Jordan Astra: The Global Star of R&B-Funk Pop
Jordan Astra is an Indonesian-Canadian singer and producer based in Toronto, recognized for his distinct blend of Uptempo R&B, Funk, and Pop. His sound is effortlessly smooth, offering an inviting and refined listening experience. In 2023, Jordan released an interpersonal EP that chronicled his journey from Australia back to Canada. His 2024 follow-up garnered millions of streams and critical acclaim, solidifying his unique artistic vision. Now signed with LA-based Mind of a Genius Records and Toronto’s Sincerely Management, Jordan is preparing for the final installment of his trilogy project, due out late 2025. His music promises to transport listeners, creating an immersive journey through sound.
Here’s “Honey” by Jordan Astra:
2. Bruklin: New York’s Evolving Pop Voice
Bruklin, a rising star from New York, began her entertainment career remarkably early, performing on television for major companies by age 11. Bruklin continues to captivate audiences with her distinct sound and evolving artistic vision. Her debut single, “Stay Friends,” showcased powerful vocals and thoughtful lyrics, while the accompanying music video for “Magic Show” further established her presence in pop music. Her latest release, “Under Your Skin,” highlights a fresh sound gaining traction among pop enthusiasts. Her journey from Albania to New York, coupled with collaborations with top producers like Oak Felder and Tommy Brown, has refined her sound, positioning her for a lasting impact on the pop music scene.
Experience “Stay Friends” by Bruklin:
3. Cristiana Love: The Unfiltered Edge of Contemporary Pop
Cristiana Love crafts music directly fueled by her life experiences, employing compelling visuals and a distinctive aesthetic to draw listeners into her world. Her initial single, “Submissive,” hinted at her departure from conventional pop norms. However, it is with tracks like “Belong to Me” that Cristiana fully reveals her bold artistic stance. The song’s progression, from a subtle, enticing intro to direct, uncompromising lyrics such as “I want it psycho, baby / Don’t u hold back / We don’t got time for that / Do your worst,” showcases her unique approach. Cristiana Love presents an unapologetic exploration of intense emotions, delivering a powerful and singular voice within the pop genre that demands attention.
Check out “Belong to Me” by Cristiana Love:
4. Ella Boh: A Modern Architect of Emotive Pop
Ella Boh is a singular force in indie pop, masterfully blending her roles as a songwriter and sole producer to create music that’s gritty, unpredictable and deeply emotive. Her work, marked by her commanding voice and a cinematic quality, resonates powerfully with today’s younger generation seeking authentic connection. Beyond her own impactful releases, Ella also lends her unique touch to others, even producing for breakout artists like Ari Abdul and collaborating with the likes of Selena Gomez and Ben Bohmer, just to name a few. She’s not just releasing tracks; she’s cultivating a vibrant community around her artistry, proving herself a relentless and self-made force in indie pop.
Vibe out to “a little bit” by Ella Boh:
5. Gobe: South Florida’s Multi-Faceted Indie Pop Innovator
Gobe is a rising South Florida singer-songwriter who distinctly blends indie pop, rock, hip-hop, and punk influences. Known for his emotional songwriting, his music is described as “sun-soaked and soul-deep,” exploring themes of heartbreak, healing, and self-expression. Gobe has gained significant traction with singles such as “Sun Leaves Scars” and “under my skin,” and has released two albums, “End to a Beginning” and “i will die in florida.” Beyond his musical endeavors, Gobe is also a talented tattoo artist, adding a unique visual dimension to his overall artistic identity.
Take a listen to “Sun Leaves Scars” by Gobe:
All five artists represent the cutting edge of indie pop, delivering tracks that are both deeply resonant and incredibly innovative. We commend these artists for their exceptional talent and dedication to crafting distinct sounds. Find all of their featured songs and more incredible tracks on the Commuter Trax: POP playlist, and let your next Pop obsession begin!
