The brand new year, 2019, is here; and, in the spirit of the celebration, we’ve decided to take a look back on the artists who made their debut in 2018. These are certainly people we should be watching as they prove themselves to be a force in the music industry. These are the stars of years to come and we can’t wait to watch them gain the success they deserve.
Every popular artist around today, started off as a debut artist, some hit the charts hard with their first release, whereas others built their careers up over time. Some of these debut artists are already globally known and others are rising up. They are certainly ones to watch as they release more new music.
So, here they are. Check out which debut artists from 2018 we chose as our favourites. There are bound to be more that we have missed but it’s impossible to list them all, there really is some incredible rising stars in the music industry right now.
Kris James / Chosen by Katrina Rees (CelebMix Editor)
“I’ve been a fan of Kris James ever since he was part of The Scheme, so when I heard that he was launching his solo career in 2018, I was really excited. He’s released two tracks (‘Eyes Open’ and ‘Anymore’), both of which perfectly showcase what he’s about as an artist. I have no doubt that he will continue to shine come 2019.”
(G)I-DLE / Chosen by Michele Mendez (CelebMix Editor)
“Although the group only just debuted back in May of 2018, (G)I-DLE has already taken the K-pop music scene by storm, most notably with their singles, ‘LATATA’ and ‘HANN (Alone)’. The group’s six members, Miyeon, Minnie, Soojin, Soyeon, Yuqi, and Shuhua, are all naturals who perform like they’ve been going at this for years, not months. Their professionalism and artistry can be seen in their music videos and live performances, which showcase the members’ incredible vocal and rapping talents.”
ASHLEE + EVAN / Chosen by Jonathan Currinn (CelebMix Editor)
“I chose ASHLEE + EVAN’s self-titled EP as my favourite EP of 2018 and now I’m choosing this husband and wife duo as my favourite debut artist because their releases of 2018 have been incredible. The first single ‘I Do’ touched my heart especially since I am in a long-distance relationship and I would do anything for my partner. They aren’t new to music, with Ashlee Simpson having a successful music career in the 00’s following in her sister’s footsteps, at the time (her sister being Jessica Simpson); and, Evan Ross is the son of Diana Ross and has starred in many popular films and plays Angel Rivera in the TV series Star. ASHLEE + EVAN’s voices compliment each other perfectly and their love for one another shines through every release. I’m excited for what the future brings to this duo.”
Normani / Chosen by Annemarie Cutruzzola (CelebMix Writer)
“It has been fascinating to watch the ladies of Fifth Harmony work as solo artists since the group’s hiatus, and, in 2018, Normani made her debut. While I appreciated her vocals in the group, the solo singles that Normani released in 2018, truly allowed her individuality and unique sound to shine. I loved her debut single with Khalid, ‘Love Lies’ – their voices blend so well making a chill yet sexy song.”
Myles Castello / Chosen by Katherine Jiang (CelebMix Writer)
“Myles Castello is without a doubt, a hidden gem that people are going to absolutely love. Definitely one of my favourite local talent finds! He’s released a handful of tracks in 2018 and I’m absolutely hooked.”
Four Of Diamonds / Chosen by Rachel Dempster (CelebMix Writer)
“What a year the Four of Diamonds girls have had! In the past six months, they’ve released three brilliant, infectiously catchy singles, headlined their own tour and I cannot wait to see what 2019 has in store for the talented quartet!”
Peyton List / Chosen By Ashley Gale (CelebMix Writer)
“I love how Peyton is trying to break out of her Disney character (from tv roles such as Bunk’d and Jessie) and ‘Liar Liar’ is a perfect example. When it was released, I couldn’t stop listening to it.”
Juice WRLD / Chosen by Sofia Esposito (CelebMix Writer)
“His hit ‘Lucid Dreams’ was his breakout and has been covered by many other artists.”
Queen Naija / Chosen by Evelin Mercedes (CelebMix Writer)
“With her first single, ‘Medicine’, she quickly gained the attraction of many big labels. I remember hearing that song and looking for more music but that was the only one she had released. “
Citizen Queen / Chosen by Kay Simpson (CelebMix Writer)
“They came into our musical world in late 2018, as they were announced to be opening for Pentatonix for their Christmas tour. They are an all woman pop and R&B vocal band, who released their first music video ‘Lost in Japan’ at the end of 2018. Their blend of vocals and tones are beautiful and we can’t wait to see more.”
King Princess / Chosen by Dominic Beck (CelebMix Writer)
“You wouldn’t think King Princess only just debuted her music in 2018, she’s one of the most exciting newcomers around. With approval from the likes of Harry Styles and Mark Ronson, King Princess has also become a huge inspiration to the LGBTQ+ community. Her honest songwriting on LGBTQ+ love and her experience as an LGBTQ+ woman really won a place in her fans’ and critics hearts’ in 2018.”
Danny Jones / Chosen by Nicola Craig (CelebMix Writer)
“Back in July, Danny Jones released his debut single ‘Is This Still Love’. You might know Danny from McFly but going it alone he’s established his own guitar driven sound complete with husky vocals, a rocky edge and sincere lyrics ‘you know my heart and soul, help me to believe and give me hope’. Singing about how, as we grow older, the way we show and express love changes, but the magic of it still remains even if doubts begin to grow in the mind. The start of a new stage of Danny’s career has been incredibly exciting for the fans waiting for new music since McFly took their break and with him selling out his debut solo show in London within minutes we hope more shows, music, and maybe an album, come in 2019.”
The Faim / Chosen by Georgia Brown (CelebMix Writer)
“Australia have an incredible export of music and that’s evident again in The Faim. Their energy, enthusiasm and passion for music is refreshing to see. Their live shows are full of life and Joshua Raven’s vocals will blow you away. The Faim are definitely a band to keep an eye on! “
TS Graye / Chosen by Toby Bryant (CelebMix Writer)
“With a Dua Lipa-like depth to her sultry pop sound, TS Graye is cultivating music with limitless potential. ‘Take Notes’ and ‘MY2’ put the singer on the map in 2018 and latest single ‘Honestly’ is her strongest effort to date. If you need any more convincing, check out the live session version of that single – it is something else. 2018 has been the start of what looks to be a very exciting journey for TS Graye.”
Van Alden / Chosen by Brittany Sims (CelebMix Writer)
“My love for Paul Abrahamian grew when he was on Big Brother. When he came out with an EP I couldn’t get enough. It’s powerful and upbeat.”
Aitana / Chosen by Lynn Macgillivray (CelebMix Writer)
“She is only nineteen but has achieved SO much to-date! She came runner-up on Spain’s biggest talent show, has released her debut EP and claimed three number one singles. She has so much talent and I can’t wait to hear more music from her.”
KIDS SEE GHOSTS / Chosen by Byaregal (CelebMix Writer)
“Kanye West and Kid Cudi are two of my favourite artists and this pairing can only be described as ‘musical genius’. After their epic performance at Camp Flog Knaw a few months ago, one can only hope the duo will head out on tour worldwide.”
Ava Max / Chosen by Azra (CelebMix Writer)
“Ava Max is a recent discovery in my world, but her music is so good. She’s definitely got herself a new fan, and I’m looking forward to seeing what 2019 has planned for her.”
We sure chose some incredible 2018 debut artists, although there’s bound to be a tonne of other debut artists that we totally missed. Many new and rising artists are moving about in the music industry and we can’t wait for the spotlight to find them and launch their careers, however debut artists weren’t the only favourites that we have chosen. Check out our 2018 favourite Albums, EPs, Singles, Music Videos, Films, TV Series‘, YouTube Videos, Events, Celebrity Moments, Memories,Success Stories, and CelebMix Articles; all chosen by our writers.