Around this time last year, we released our annual Ones to Watch in Music portfolio, a curated who’s who list of the rising artists primed to have a major year. On that 2024 list was Chappell Roan, mere weeks before her meteoric rise that summer. So we’re not not saying we can predict the future with this story. All joking aside, we do have a pretty good sense of these things, and this year’s roundup of übertalented female musicians is certainly worthy of your attention. Trust us—your spring and summer playlists will be all the better for it.
A hip-hop trailblazer out of Tennessee, a Canadian rock-pop group making their festival rounds this summer, an R&B songstress dialing in with infectious melodies and heartfelt lyrics, a pop artist dripping with silver screen–era nostalgia, a Gen Z teen dream, and an English folk singer on a deep exploration of womanhood. These six artists are charting their own paths and racking up streams, critical accolades, artist cosigns, and buzz-worthy live performances along the way, so let’s meet them.
(Image credit: Savanna Ruedy)
WHO: Samara Cyn
WHAT: A rap trailblazer out of Tennessee. The rising 26-year-old artist first made a name for herself early last year when a series of her freestyles went viral, earning her cosigns from the likes of Doja Cat and Erykah Badu. The magic of Cyn is her unique blend of wit and charm delivered via sharp lyricism and animated beats. With her debut EP The Drive Home, Cyn takes listeners through the struggles she faced growing up in a turbulent home and her journey to finding acceptance in being authentically herself, all the while seamlessly interweaving hip-hop with sounds of soul, indie pop, and rock. Currently on repeat is her latest single with Sherwyn—”Pop n Olive,” a breezy, lighthearted gem of a song.
WEAR: Making a strong case for the return of the slouchy knit cap.
![Samara Cyn - Chrome [Official Music Video] - YouTube](https://img.youtube.com/vi/fgqSACwhF2c/maxresdefault.jpg)
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For people discovering you for the first time, how would you describe your music? What song of yours should they start with?
My music is a mix of hip-hop, soul, and indie pop. It’s inspired by Outkast, Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, Kendrick [Lamar], Isaiah Rashad, and Tyler, the Creator. If you wanted to listen to my songs, I’d start with “Chrome.”
Can you tell us about your musical journey? What were some of your earliest musical memories?
I don’t come from musicians necessarily, but music was always playing in our household. I’d say one of my favorite memories is rapping “Children’s Story” by Slick Rick with my dad at my 13th birthday party. Music was a huge way I connected with both my parents. I didn’t start making music myself until 2019. Love at first sight.
You released your debut EP The Drive Home last fall. How does this collection of songs reflect your journey as an artist to this point?
These songs were literal time stamps of my struggles with self-acceptance and choosing authenticity over “the right way.” A lot of internal dialogue, doubt, confidence, ego, pride, and surrender. So many people have an opinion on what you do. My test has been trusting myself more than anything else and learning to give grace to the ebbs and flows that come with that process.
Walk us through your latest single “Pop n Olive.” What was the creative process?
I’ve worked with Two Fresh quite a bit. Sherwyn (half of the producer/writer duo) makes incredible music as an artist himself, and we quite naturally were just making songs one day and boom—”Pop n Olive.” We passed a little microphone around the room and shouted things into it while Kendo (the other half of Two Fresh) produced the music. It was extremely unserious! I had just watched Natural Born Killers for the first time, so the unhinged mood of the lyrics kind of stemmed from that. [I] thought it was just soooooo clever to talk about heinous activities to a beat so mellow and lighthearted.
If you could be in the studio with any artist right now, who would it be, and why?
J. Cole. I try really hard to be a student of life. I feel like J. Cole is as well and is at a point where he can very clearly communicate what has worked for him and what hasn’t. Even if you set aside him being insanely talented and well-rounded as an artist/producer, I feel like I could learn a lot from him.
What’s a song or album you have on repeat right now?
I’ve been listening to “Memorize” by this artist named Liim. So good.
What would you say is a Samara Cyn fashion signature?
I’m always wearing something oversize or baggy. I think recently the slouchy knitted beanies have really been my thing. I’ve been incorporating a lot of knits into my wardrobe, but the slouchy beanie is a staple to a Cyn outfit at the moment.
(Image credit: Phoebe Fox)
WHO: Paris Paloma
WHAT: A powerful new voice in indie folk-pop. When English singer-songwriter Paris Paloma released her single “Labour” in 2023, little did she know it would quickly become the unofficial anthem for women’s rights, driving a whopping two billion views on social media. Talk about a breakout moment! Following the release of her 2024 debut album Cacophony, in which she goes on a deep exploration of womanhood and rebellion, Paloma has kept busy with sold-out performances across the UK and U.S., including a particularly special International Women’s Day show in Washington D.C. In other exciting news, she’s also returning to the Glastonbury stage this summer—in free-flowing Dior or Simone Rocha, no doubt.
WEAR: Dôen coded.
![Paris Paloma - labour [Official Video] - YouTube](https://img.youtube.com/vi/jvU4xWsN7-A/maxresdefault.jpg)
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For people discovering you for the first time, how would you describe your music? What song of yours should they start with?
I’d say my music is interested in big and heavy emotions, the otherworldly and the ancient, giving weight to human feelings and experiences, hoping to make people feel held through them.
Your breakout single “Labour” became an overnight cultural anthem for women’s rights, driving over two billion views on social media. Can you talk about the inspiration behind the song and the impact it’s had?
The inspiration behind the song is the very real exploitation that every woman I know has experienced within their relationships—the devaluation of the work women do, women living in pension poverty, women being forced into all these positions of mother, wife, server—where they are told they’ll be loved and instead are exploited for everything they can give. The impact, I think, was so large because it’s something women everywhere feel. Women are doing more and more and producing income and overtaking men in terms of education, yet we still run with this narrative that they should be carers for their male partners, that they should forsake their life to give their husbands children that they’ll raise with no support. It was so emotional hearing all the stories that came out of it, women divorcing their husbands because they realised how exploited they were by them. I’m so proud and happy that these women have come together in their experiences and shared those stories.
You released your debut album Cacophony last year. How does the title and this collection of songs reflect where you are as an artist?
The title references how chaotic I felt my mind had been in recent years, in a time where songwriting really felt like my salvation and something that I did out of necessity. The songs really tell a story of my own growth through this period of my life, and the album reaches this point of peace toward the end, a point that those songs and the ability to write them really carried me to.
Is there a song on Cacophony that feels most personal or feels like a triumph in terms of its creation?
“Hunter” feels like a particularly vulnerable one, as it follows the narrative in my mind of the parts of myself that really felt like they were at war with each other—times where I had such intense self-hatred—and then looking back on that and being so shocked at how I was treating myself in that upsetting way. Because it’s one of the most vulnerable songs, I think that’s why it’s also one of the vaguest. It’s shrouded in fantasy and this mythical narrative, but it speaks to some really dark times.
What or who are some of your biggest influences as an artist?
My biggest influences are people like Mitski for the really visceral, straightforwardly communicative style of her songwriting. Also people like Adrianne Lenker—I’m so enthralled with the way she tells stories and intentionally shapes her lyrics.
What would you say is a Paris Paloma fashion signature?
A fashion signature? It’s funny. I don’t really think about it. Maybe my mop of hair. … When I put my hair up, I don’t always feel fully myself as when it’s just loose. It’s very much a security blanket or an invisibility cloak. Maybe that will change, though. Style is fluid, after all.
You have been on the U.S. leg of your tour wearing looks styled by Leith Clark. Is there a look that has been particularly memorable to you?
Leith’s styling on this tour was phenomenal. Definitely a look that was particularly memorable was the dress I wore in Washington D.C. on International Women’s Day. [It was] a huge white gown but stained blood red from the bottom up. The skirt is actually two skirts, one of which is a tutu that makes it enormous. The dress is by the designer Hana Yagi. It’s actually from a bridal collection, I believe, which felt sort of perfect in a subversive sense.
(Image credit: Karolina Pran Photography)
WHO: Aqyila
WHAT: An R&B tour de force. Since making her debut in 2021, Toronto native Aqyila has been collecting Juno Awards (Canada’s version of the Grammys), racking up millions of streams, and building a dedicated TikTok fan base, all thanks to her infectious melodies and heartfelt storytelling. But 2025 is clearly shaping up to be her best year yet. After supporting Pink Sweat$ on his North American tour, she released her highly anticipated album Falling Into Place, and two days later, she picked up the Juno Award for Contemporary R&B Recording of the Year while making her main-stage debut at the show, performing her viral hit “Bloom.” Four months in, the momentum is strong for this one.
WEAR: Diaphanous dresses on repeat.
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For people discovering you for the first time, how would you describe your music? What song of yours should they start with?
I would describe my music as soft, sweet, and unique. I’d say start with “Bloom.” I’m such a lover girl at heart, and this song is so sweet to the listener’s ear.
Who are some of the artists who really influenced you growing up?
My parents played artists like Tamia, Whitney Houston, Jennifer Hudson, Fantasia, Alicia Keys, Fred Hammond, and a lot of reggae and dancehall music.
Your debut album Falling Into Place dropped last month. How does this collection of songs reflect where you are as an artist and/or personally?
These songs really do showcase my growth as an artist. Vocally, I have become more capable to do so many cool things with my voice, from melodies to lyrics and doing my own vocal production. I love harmonies, adding padding around the background to fill the song. … Overall, my attention to detail has heightened. I also just have experienced a lot of growth overall. From work [to] life to relationships, growth is such a good thing.
What was the first song you wrote for Falling Into Place, and how did it set the tone for the album?
The first song that went on Falling Into Place was “Sunshine.” I created this song in 2023, and I knew instantly that “Sunshine” was going to be on my debut album. The feeling it gives is so warm, which is a feeling I naturally connect to with all of my songs. Once I paid attention to the feeling, I made sure I felt that [with] each song I selected for the album.
Is there a track on the album you are most excited to perform live for your fans?
Ah, that’s so hard to pick because when I think about one, I think about all of the songs. I love “Give Me More,” “Down,” “Breathless.” I could go on. I’m just super excited to perform a brand-new set list.
How would you describe the visual and fashion aesthetic of this album?
This album is sweet, feminine, and sensual.
What would you say is an Aqyila fashion signature?
Currently, I am a fan of corsets. They are my current fave pieces along with cargo pants, silver jewelry, and a lovely [blown-out], layered hairstyle.
(Image credit: Kirt Barnett)
WHO: Remy Bond
WHAT: A candy-coated pop star dripping with Old Hollywood nostalgia. With Dolly Parton–sized blonde hair, an affinity for Americana style, and a voice fit for the silver screen era, Remy Bond has created a pop aesthetic all her own, and we can’t get enough. The New York native has a twinge of Lana Del Rey in her ’60s-inspired vocal stylings, giving tracks like “Simple Girl” and “Summer Song” their enchanting and angsty sound. Add on her dreamy visuals, and Bond is a full-on multisensory experience. With her debut album and the appropriately titled Star Shaped Baby Tour on the way, it’s high time to get acquainted and fall in love.
WEAR: Vintage Hawaiian tropicana.
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For people discovering you for the first time, how would you describe your music? What song of yours should they start with?
I would start with “Star Shaped Baby.” It’s the centerfold of the world I want to live in.
You have a vintage quality to both your sound and look. Who were some of your biggest musical influences growing up?
The Ronettes, Siouxsie and the Banshees, and ABBA are big influences of mine. I like The Notorious B.I.G.—he’s a vintage guy, a real god.
You released the single “Simple Girl” in February, your first under Warner Records. Is this marking a new chapter for you?
It doesn’t—new chapter incoming!
An album is coming out soon. What can you tell us about it?
It’s been amazing not having to stick to the traditional one cohesive sound/concept for the whole album. Each song has its own world and soundscape, but the thing that ties all the songs together is that it came from me. I love all the sounds and synths I’ve been experimenting with.
Your visuals are an important extension of your music. Can you talk a little about the creative process that goes into your images and music videos?
Usually, I can associate the feeling I get from a certain song with an image or video, so I’m never really searching for a video concept, if you know what I mean. If anything, I’m trying to re-create the feeling I get when watching a movie or looking at a piece of art in a song. My sister and I piece it all together. She’s really good at giving the song a whole nother meaning by putting it with a certain visual.
Your Star Shaped Baby Tour is coming this summer. What are you cooking up for your fans with this live show?
I’m so excited to bring my world to different cities—there’s gonna be some Hairspray. I’m obsessed with Nikki Blonsky, some disco dansband, summer of love, Elvis Hawaii. I’m pushing for glitter rain.
What would you say is a Remy Bond fashion signature?
A hibiscus and a bedazzled vape, [of course]—no mint flavors. I like them to taste like candy.
(Image credit: Def Jam Recordings)
WHO: Liamani
WHAT: A multitalented artist who is about to be everywhere. On your playlists and soon to be on your TV screen, 16-year-old Liamani is booked and busy. After a few of her covers of contemporary pop songs went viral on TikTok, the teen nabbed a coveted lead role in Disney’s High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, signed a record deal with Def Jam Recordings, and released her debut single “Sunkissed” last year. Cosigns from Justin Bieber and Mariah Carey and a major Gap campaign soon followed, solidifying the young talent as one to watch. The momentum remains strong for Liamani in 2025 with the release of her new single, “Hanging by a Thread,” about navigating a turbulent relationship and the announcement that she was cast as Pink in the fifth Descendants film.
WEAR: Gen Z teen dream.
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For people discovering you for the first time, how would you describe your music? What song of yours should they start with?
I would say my music has the ability to tell my stories about different things happening currently in my teenage life. Every song has a different concept, therefore you get a different feeling from each one. Sometimes, you can dance to my songs, and sometimes, it’s a slow, beautiful ballad, and all you can do is listen and relate and cry. I really make sure to show my fun and spunky personality but also the raw, emotional stuff too. There is so much emotion in the songs I sing and write. Every lyric comes from my journal that I have been writing in for five years now. I make sure that everyone that listens can relate and really feel the words that I’m singing. The music that I make can be listened to by people of all ages. Going into my EP, I always said that I wanted to embody the overall feeling of being a teenager. I want my fans to be able to grow with me. I always strive for my songs to be timeless.
“Hanging by a Thread” has a fun ’80s teen vibe. Can you walk us through your creative process for this track and the visuals?
Recently, I have a really strong love for the ’80s. I’ve always loved the retro, bright, neon colors and the outfits. Don’t even get me started!! Iconic. Everything always comes back, and I really wanted to try and bring it back through the “Hanging by a Thread” music video. My inspiration was that Whitney [Houston] “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” mixed with a little Cyndi Lauper mixed with Madonna—all of the ’80s queens. The music from the ’80s has always inspired me. It feels so nostalgic even though I wasn’t born in the ’80s. That’s what good music does. I also really love that in the ’80s, there were no phones. I think that’s what I love about it the most, so as you can see in the music video, there are no electronics. I love that you can really feel us connecting with each other and enjoying each other’s company and being in the moment. You can really feel the sisterhood and friendship of me and my besties in the video. I told my team my concept, and they helped me bring it to life.
You’ve received some exciting cosigns from noteworthy artists. Is there a shout-out in particular that feels like a “pinch me” moment?
My favorite “pinch me” moment would probably have to be when Justin Bieber FaceTimed me while I was filming for High School Musical: The Series season three. I had just gotten back from set, and I opened Instagram seeing that he had messaged me and wanted to connect. He has always been such an inspiration, and I look up to him so much. When I was able to have a heartfelt conversation with him, I just about died, and there were definitely some happy tears. It was such a blessing, and I strongly believe God made it happen so perfectly. He gave me some advice that I will take with me for the rest of my life.
It was recently announced that you are joining the fifth Descendants film as Red’s sister Pink. What can you tell us about this role?
I can tell you that this role is going to be one of the proud moments that I look back on many, many years from now. Pink is one of the new characters in the Descendants franchise. She is the perky, sweet little sister of Red and daughter of the Queen of Hearts. There are so many dance numbers and so many amazing songs that are going to make fans go crazy! I can’t say too much, but I can say that Pink really hits those notes!! We have been working so hard, all while having such a blast with each other on set. It has been so beautiful being able to create lifelong friends and family. So proud to be a part of history!
Is there a dream acting role you’d love to explore next?
I’m a Halloween baby, and I feel like I would love to be in a scary movie next. It would really allow people to see a different side of acting from me. But I do love my musicals as well. … Although, a horror musical would be kinda cool, ha ha ha ha! I have always loved scary movies growing up and feel as though a role like this would be so fun to shoot. I love Tim Burton and all his work, and I think that would be a complete dream to work with him and his team! He’s kinda musical and spooky! James Wan would also be super cool to work with! Also on my wish list is to work with Jon Chu! I mean, come on! He’s a legend!
What would you say is a Liamani fashion signature?
I would say my fashion signature would be gold hoops and lip gloss. I’ve been told my eyelashes are always super long and pretty, so I always have to make sure my lips and eyelashes are poppin’. I also love a good shoe! Depending on the occasion, I’m either sneakered up, or I got a cute heel going!
(Image credit: Meg Moon)
WHO: The Beaches
WHAT: A badass all-female quartet out of Canada. Named after the Toronto neighborhood where three-fourths of the band grew up, The Beaches is comprised of sisters Jordan (lead vocals, bass) and Kylie Miller (guitar, backing vocals), Leandra Earl (keyboard, guitar, backing vocals), and Eliza Enman-McDaniel (drums). Since their formation in 2013, the group has been charting a steady rise with their catchy indie rock and pop hooks. With the release of their 2023 album Blame My Ex and its viral TikTok hit “Blame Brett,” the band saw a spike in streaming and landed the top spot of Billboard’s Canada Rock chart for four consecutive weeks. Now, The Beaches are back in a big way again for 2025 following a huge win at this year’s Juno Awards for Group of the Year, a high-energy performance at Coachella, and the announcement of their third studio album No Hard Feelings coming later this summer.
WEAR: Denim, leather, and black bras.
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For people discovering you for the first time, how would you describe your music? What song of yours should they start with?
Jordan Miller: I would describe “the Beaches sound” as messy indie pop. We write songs about being complicated young women who are sometimes unlucky in love and sometimes party too much. I would say our song “Blame Brett” is a pretty good starting point when listening to our music.
What’s next for you in 2025?
JM: We’ve got a lot happening this year. We’re putting out a new album! We’re also playing a bunch of really amazing festivals this year—we’re doing Coachella, Osheaga, and Gov Ball. You may even see us touring by the end of the year too.
How would you describe this current era of The Beaches?
JM: I would say that this current era is more reflective. In our last album, we were blaming our exes and dealing with a lot of heartbreak and all the complicated feelings that come with that. This album, we’re looking at ourselves and examining how our own messy behaviour affects us.
You are hitting the summer music festival circuit. What are you most excited to share with fans with these live shows?
JM: New music!
You have been creating music as a band for an impressive 12 years. What would you say has been the key to your success as a group?
JM: Being best friends certainly helps!
You saw firsthand the impact TikTok virality can have on an artist with your 2023 single “Blame Brett.” How do you feel it changed the game for you?
JM: It still feels like a “pinch me” moment, honestly. I think the song resonated with so many people because it came out just when a bunch of relationships were ending (the ones that started during COVID), and I think the message just really resonated. Connecting with so many people through your music is honestly all an artist could ever ask for, so the viral moment felt really incredible and touching.
What would you say is a Beaches fashion signature?
JM: Honestly, a hot signature black bra. We all have one.
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