Every year, new artists quietly change the sound of music without getting the spotlight they deserve. Their songs are in our late-night playlists and blow up on our For You pages, but their names still don’t show up next to the usual big chart-toppers. In 2026, three artists feel criminally underrated: Clara La San, Malcolm Todd, and Avenoir. 

Clara La San’s genre is more of alt R&B and bedroom pop. Her music has a dreamy feeling, but her vocals and lyrics are powerful and emotional. My favorite tracks by her are “Feel Good,” “Who Said,” and “Enemy.” “Feel Good” is the song that feels comforting and euphoric, while “Who Said” and “Enemy” dig deeper into the pain and drama of relationships. Her music is strong enough to sit beside mainstream R&B artists, yet she is still a hidden gem. 

Malcolm Todd brings a different energy, mixing alt and indie beats with catchy vocals and melodies. His songs have a homemade but polished feel. My favorite songs by him are “Ladygirl,” “Arthouse,” and “Attention,” but he also has other hits like “Earrings.” His music is the type that is easy to put on repeat and listen to at any moment.

Finally, Avenoir represents the soulful side of today’s music with Contemporary R&B, Alternative R&B, and Soul. His hit song “Shameless” is smooth and emotional, while tracks such as “Art of War” and “Marbles” make you feel like you’re levitating. 

In a very crowded music world — especially in 2026 — these three prove that the most interesting artists aren’t always the most famous. Sometimes the best music is the kind you have to discover yourself.

Kimora Page

It makes my day better when I see my friends.