Living in America, when you think of Asian artists, what probably comes to mind are BTS and Blackpink. It can be hard to find Asian artists whose music isn’t overly saturated on our airways, so I am here to broaden your horizons. As a music lover of all things that are low key and are more of a coffee shop vibe, this list will contain alternative and R&B artists. I have also included my favorite song of theirs!
Lexie is a Chinese artist whose music is extremely smooth. She has an effortless voice with her songs showcasing the ins and outs of love, conveying powerful messages with restriction and a sense of removal that really works in her favor. Listening to her music is an experience on its own and truly her entire album, 2030, is amazing. I love to put her music on while I’m working or if I am just playing a game on my phone. It suits any mood.
My pick: “Hat Trick”- 2030
Dean is one of the most well-known Asian artists on this list and that is for good reason. His infusion of alternative, hip hop, and R&B creates a sound that is uniquely his own. Dean is one of those artists where it doesn’t matter if you understand what he is talking about because you can feel it. He has such a soulful voice and is an extremely talented and diverse artist, like Lexie, his entire 130 Mood: TRBL deserves a listen, or two!
My pick: “And You? (Outro)”- 130 Mood: TRBL
Zion T. is also a popular Korean artist, like Dean. His soft melodies exhibit his vulnerability and you can’t help but feel everything that he is too. For me, he is like the male Asian version of Adele, I am always in my feelings while listening to him, but I love it. His experimental style is also very cool, so check out his videos as well!
My pick: “Eat”- Single
Katie is one of my favorite Asian artists that I have recently discovered for myself. Her chill vocals and upbeat tempos, will just make you want to fall in love. Her music a perfect blend of a catchy beats and good vibes.
My pick: “Remember”- Single
Sik-K is a rapper who has really awesome music. His deep and soulful voice, lends well to his laid back style. As rappers go, he is one of my favorites in general, not just among Asian artists. I would definitely endeavor if I were you, it won’t disappoint!
My pick: “party (Shut Down)”- H.A.L.F
This duo are the kings of soft melodies. Their music is such easy listening that you could use it as a nighttime playlist while you fall asleep. I can be honest and say that I have no idea what most of their songs are about, but I still enjoy them which I think is a testament to their beautiful voices and melodies.
My pick: “gold”- Boy.
Heize’s authenticity and will to be herself is extremely refreshing from some other female Asian artists that are forced to adhere to strict rules on image, especially artists that are a part of girl groups. She is unapologetically herself and is raw with her music.
My pick: “Jenga”- Wish & Wind
Like Zion T., I appreciate pH-1’s ability to go deep into his feelings. His music has all of the style of hip-hop with the added touch of rap occasionally. My favorite song of his, “Homebody,” always resonated with me in that I feel like I am one too. His ability to speak truth to love, loss, and hardship, make him an artist that many could rally behind.
My pick: “Homebody”- staying– Single
G. Soul’s ep, Circles, is one that I have on repeat often. Like pH-1, he gives truth to yearning, and toxic love that is quite moving even for listeners like myself who cannot fully understand the lyrics. That is why I have chosen the Asian artists that I did for this list; they all can reach an audience who don’t speak their language and still find a way to connect.
My pick: “Tequila”- Circles
Sometimes it’s good to put on music that makes you feel like you just went through one of the worst breakups in your life, even if you haven’t. Its’s weird that we can find comfort in that, but either way, keshi’s music will do that to you. His delicate and soft voice accompanied by mellow beats, opens you up to his feelings and allows for his listeners to get a front row seat to what he is going through.
My pick: “Like I Need U”- The Reaper– EP
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