Music analysis: A look at the music industry’s unsung heroes
Beyonce, Taylor Swift, Rihanna, Drake, all huge household names that people around the world cannot seem to get enough of.
Regardless of opinion on these artists, it is undeniable that they have built highly successful careers through their music.
But what about artists who do not receive the same level of recognition for their work?
Fame does not necessarily reflect the level of talent an artist has.
There are many skilled and underrated artists who continue to fly under the radar, whose music deserves far more attention.
Here, Music News Blitz’s Tyler Lai Sai looks at some of those unsung artists worth discovering.
Girlsweetvoiced
girlsweetvoiced (GSV) is best known for her song “Tonight”, which features a guitar sample from Joni Mitchell’s track “California”. GSV released a snippet of the song on TikTok in March 2026 as an experimental piece.
It quickly gained traction, leading to an official release on streaming platforms.
Adding to her growing profile, fans noted that she was followed by Grammy award-winning artist Frank Ocean on his private Instagram account, sparking speculation about possible future collaborations.
What makes GSV unique is that she is her own writer, singer, and producer. She records and produces her music from her bedroom before releasing it.
Her sound contributes to the bedroom pop and indie pop genres, blended with dreamy lo-fi influences.
Her music is ideal for laid-back, slow-paced days.
Leven Kali
Leven Kali is a highly respected producer and artist known for creating music that encourages movement and energy.
Kali produces his own work, blending dance and electronic influences with R&B and soul, resulting in a funky, groove-driven sound.
He is best known for his work on Beyonce’s Renaissance album, where he contributed songwriting and background vocals. He has also worked with Playboi Carti, Drake, and featured on tracks such as “How You Feel”.
Although he has contributed to major household names, Kali remains relatively under-recognised for his solo work.
His music is perfect for lifting energy when you are feeling low.
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Desire
Best known for their track “Under Your Spell”, Canadian duo Desire creates a blend of synth pop and electronic disco, producing a cinematic and immersive sound.
Megan Louise is the vocalist, while Johnny Jewel handles production. Together, they create music designed to feel atmospheric and emotionally absorbing.
Formed in 2009, the duo continues to release music to this day.
Their sound is ideal for late night drives, creating a feeling of being inside a film.
Westside Cowboy
If you enjoy The La’s or The Pixies, Westside Cowboy is worth exploring.
In an interview with Rock for People, the band described their sound as a mix of classic British songwriting and American alt rock, jokingly referring to the style as “Britainicana”.
Formed in Manchester in 2023 by music graduates, the band is part of a new wave of indie rock acts.
They released their debut EP in January 2026, alongside several singles in 2025, and continue to build momentum.
Their sound will appeal to fans of classic rock and 90s alternative music.
Westside Cowboy is a promising emerging band with strong potential.
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Living Colour
Living Colour is the longest-standing act on this list, yet still remains active and relevant today.
Formed in 1984, the band continues to produce music and tour internationally.
They are often incorrectly labelled as a one-hit wonder due to the success of “Cult of Personality”, which overshadowed much of their wider catalogue.
In reality, the band built a respected career and maintained a strong fanbase beyond their biggest hit.
During the 80s and 90s, Living Colour challenged industry norms in rock music, a genre that was largely dominated by white artists at the time.
Their sound blends hard rock, funk, metal, and alternative influences, creating a distinctive and innovative style.
They remain widely recognised as pioneers in modern rock.
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