We have a lot to catch up on for May’s Sofar Artist News, so let’s lock in. From dreamy debuts to fresh albums and tours, these artists are booked, busy, and blessing our ears. Here are the viral covers, international tours, and yes, one song about cheese- that Sofar artists have been cooking up this month.
1. Fresh off a Sofar London set and a (tender!) TED Talk, Yijia released her single, “Lullaby”—and it’s exactly what it sounds like. Yijia blends Chinese folk with indie-pop, and the result is a melodic dreamscape. If you haven’t yet, check out her EP Chinese Whisperer—and stay tuned to see what stage she takes next!
2. The idea of a pop princess has transformed a generation, and right now, Nia Ashleigh is emerging royalty. Her latest single, “All the Same,” is a vulnerable and controlled anthem that complements a smooth jazz and R&B vibe. Catch her on tour opening for Trousdale. (You might even spot Nia’s fans Lady Gaga and SZA in the crowd!)
3. Research shows dancing can help get those happy brain receptors moving, and we have just the thing for when you need to dance it out. Desire! is the third album from Friend of a Friend, featuring the impossibly catchy “Oasis” and all the hypnotic indie-rock they’re known for. See FOAF on their U.S. tour, and, yes, consider wearing your dancing shoes.
4. Bryan Elijah Smith’s cover of Chris Isaak’s “Wicked Game” brings the right amount of spook for your spring. Country-folk fans may recognize Bryan from his viral hit “One Shot,” and with a suitcase full of heartbreak and harmonicas, he’s back on the road for more crooning. Catch him on stage with summer dates across the U.S. and Canada!
5. “Chasing Cheese” is a genius Broadway-worthy drop by one-man show, Spence Hood. In it, Spence mixes theatre camp charm with Taylor Swift storytelling, and he has us begging for a part II. Follow his TikTok for upcoming show dates or enjoy a “House Concert” set! Choose your show date for Spence to serenade your party!
6. With a voice that sounds like it’s echoing from a cabin deep in the woods, Charlie Bishop just released Far Away, an album that blends Northeastern folk and Western country for an overall Americana feel. The album flows with poetic, stripped-down lyrics that can feel close to home. Wanna catch Charlie on stage? He promises more show dates are coming!
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7. Claire Ernst’s debut album, Oh, Hello!, is a delightful intro to her genre-blending style. She’s mastered the ‘Shania Twain’ country-pop hooks, with a seamless mesh of timeless R&B. The track “Me at the Moment” is as catchy as it is clever, and lucky us, she’s teasing even more shows for the summer. (Starting in Nashville, naturally).
Catch these artists and more just like them at a Sofar near you!
