In 2023, we were graced with new music from some beloved artists, such as the Rolling Stones, André 3000, Paramore, and Jai Paul.
In the year 2024, we can expect new music from both popular artists like Dua Lipa and underground favorites like Idles. We asked our readers which other musicians they are excited to hear new music from, whether it’s a veteran who hasn’t released music in years or a newcomer who has yet to release a full album.
Archie Shepp
I had the privilege of attending the Charlie Parker jazz festival in Tompkins Square Park in Manhattan two years ago, where I had the opportunity to listen to Archie Shepp and Jason Moran perform. Shepp, who is known as one of the last great jazz saxophonists, sang and played his instrument, captivating the audience with classic spirituals such as “Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child” and “Go Down Moses.” His renditions moved me to tears, as I deeply understood the significance behind them in a way that can only be known by someone who has experienced being a refugee, a migrant, a victim of human trafficking, or a marginalized minority. Shepp’s musical expertise and brilliance were evident in every note he played. It was truly a beautiful experience. Holger Henke, 63, Jamaica.
Sam Fender
In 2023, Sam Fender’s fans have been anticipating new music after he hinted at a third album. With impressive live shows and his previous two albums, Fender has gained recognition as a promising musician who has a special talent for connecting with his audience. His songs, like “Seventeen Going Under,” address the disillusionment of youth, while others, such as “Dead Boys,” delve into difficult topics with raw emotion. Fender’s authentic and impactful lyrics make his music meaningful and it will be interesting to see how his third album measures up. This message was shared by Lalita from Nottingham.
Ariana Grande
In the past six months, I have been under a lot of stress. However, I recently found that listening to a certain young female artist with her impressive vocal range and signature ponytail has greatly lifted my spirits. Her song “Thank U, Next” is a definite hit and I am eagerly awaiting her next album to dance and sing along to. From Frances, age 31 in London.
Wet Leg
Their initial record met the expectations set by their early releases. This is not just my opinion; they not only received Brit awards, but also Grammys! Wow. I am relieved that they have not rushed to release a new album, especially considering their previous burnout. As someone in my middle age, they were the first band to truly excite me since I heard Arctic Monkeys, who share the same label, with their hit song I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor. I had tickets to see Wet Leg twice, but unfortunately had to cancel both times. Hopefully, a new album will bring along a new tour. -Antony, 48, from Staffordshire
Ayra Starr
Currently, Afrobeats and amapiano are two of the most popular music styles in numerous multicultural cities in Europe. These genres also have a strong influence on local artists in both Europe and the US. One such artist is Ayra Starr, who possesses an incredible voice and is often sought after to collaborate with international artists like David Guetta, Stormzy, and Leigh-Anne from Little Mix in the UK. Despite being only 21 years old, Starr has already achieved significant success and may one day reach the same level of success as Beyoncé or Rihanna. This information was shared by René Romer from Rotterdam, Netherlands.
My Bloody Valentine
It has been a decade since their last album release, and it was just as impressive as their earlier records from the 1980s and 1990s. However, I am becoming increasingly impatient for new material. As a long-time fan of Kevin Shields and MBV, he is one of my all-time favorite artists. Their music is truly transcendent. Even a single new song would be a gift, as the man’s musical talent rivals that of legends such as Hendrix, Gershwin, Coltrane, and Brian Wilson. Please, release new music soon! Patrick, age 47 from Farnborough.
The Cure
I am eager to hear the long-awaited album that Robert Smith has been promising for years. The new songs performed live have a similar sound to Disintegration, which I found uninteresting lyrically and musically. However, I am still curious to hear what Smith and his bandmates have created. Although, one must be cautious when wishing for something as Smith may have made numerous changes to the album since his initial promise. From Woods, Munich, Germany.
Michael Kiwanuka
There are certain artists who have a natural connection to the greats, and Michael Kiwanuka is one of them. His music is timeless and I never get tired of listening to it, which shows how dedicated he is to his craft. Despite seeing him perform in Glasgow last year, it’s been years since he has released a new album. He is not only a joy to be around, but also an exceptional musician. I can imagine him pouring his heart into every chord for his upcoming album. Michael, please don’t keep us waiting any longer – even a mediocre album would be better than nothing! These are the words of Stephen Cuffe, a 59-year-old from Glasgow.
Nick Cave
I have always dreamed of a disco album by Nick Cave. I once had the chance to chat with Bad Seed Jim Sclavunos about it when we ran into each other at a Martin Rev concert. I still have a glimmer of hope that it may happen one day. It would be unexpected and go against Nick Cave’s typical style, but I know he enjoys going against the norm. Currently, his music is far from disco, so I have taken it upon myself to start creating it. If Nick Cave happens to see this, I urge him to reach out. Horton Jupiter from the Wirral.
Kate Bush
I am curious about the thoughts and ideas that have been brewing in your extraordinary mind for the past 13 years. It is difficult for me to predict or even imagine what a new Kate Bush album would be like. However, I am always prepared to be surprised and taken on a journey through life, death, and everything in between that I could have never imagined but still find to be true. I have a wide range of musical tastes, but Kate’s artistry stands out to me for its ability to amaze, challenge, and even scare me. It is more than just pleasing to the ear; it is a complete sensory experience that evokes deep emotions without being overly sentimental. Jane Clements Womack, 41, Sheffield.
The Sundays
Between 1990 and 1997, The Sundays released three albums of soft and melodic indie music. However, there has been no new music from them since then, despite an interview where they mentioned working on new material. It has been nine years since then, which should have given them enough time to create a new album. As a teenager, I was very interested in their combination of intricate guitar, Harriet Wheeler’s angelic voice, and their uniquely English and sometimes nonsensical lyrics. Their soothing music is often my go-to during turbulent flights, and with the recent global turbulence, a new Sundays album would be greatly appreciated. Ciaran Norris, aged 40s from Dun Laoghaire, Ireland.
Source: theguardian.com
