Mainstream to #Real: Give Your Music Library a Facelift

Is the radio your only source of new music? I sincerely apologize for the world you have been missing out on while caught up in the mainstream.

We here at #119 are about to spice up your library with some #realness. It's alright to jam to mainstream hits every now and then, but songs that are over-consumed by the public can get old very quickly. If you're already a fan of any of the four mainstream artists listed, you're guaranteed to fall in love with their up-and-coming counterparts.

JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE to TRAVIS GARLAND

We all fall for the smooth vocals and boyish charm of Justin Timberlake, there's no denying it. However, if you find that you have played The 20/20 Experience album one too many times, check out Travis Garland. I first discovered this angel from above through his covers on YouTube (please bless your day with the Diamonds/Adorn Mash-Up) and have been obsessed ever since. His vocal range is simply out of this world, arguably better than JT, and his lyrics will have you deep into your feelings in no time.

TINASHE to TINK

At the young age of 20, Tink is slowly on the come up and one to watch out for. Her voice and musical style is essentially a mix between Dej Loaf and Tinashe, blending cool and sweet all in one package. Having already worked with mainstream giants Timbaland and Jeremih, Tink is steadily gaining attention for her single Million, but her Soundcloud hosts many more jams you will be sure to love. It is clear that honest love songs are her strength, check out my favorite below.

KENDRICK LAMAR to ISAIAH RASHAD

Let me start off by saying I am a huge Kendrick fan and could never dream of replacing him in my music library. However, when I'm not in the mood for a 50th play through Good Kid, M.A.A.D City, I bump Isaiah Rashad's EP, Cilvia Demo. A fellow member of TDE, Isaiah Rashad is very heavily slept on when compared to Kendrick and Schoolboy Q. His pace is slower than Kendrick and his music is on the more chill side of rap, but Isaiah's talent is evident nonetheless. Granted, when you're a part of the rap genius that is Top Dawg Entertainment, how could you not be this good?

LANA DEL REY to BANKS

To be very honest I never really jumped on the Lana train when everyone became obsessed with her. Don't get me wrong, she's pretty unique and has a dope vibe, but her vocals and lyrics never truly impressed me. Banks, however, hit straight to the soul when I heard her first single Goddess. Not only is she as beautiful as her voice, but her honest lyrics are some of the most relatable and empowering I have ever heard. Check lil mami out and go see her live when she opens for The Weeknd this fall!

Like these artists? Let us know and check out our Soundcloud for more!