<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>Artists – Live Music, Concerts & Music Events | Sofar Sounds</title> <atom:link href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/category/artists/feed" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog</link> <description></description> <lastBuildDate>Fri, 03 Oct 2025 21:30:28 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4</generator> <image> <url>https://sofar-blog-images.s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/favicon.svg</url> <title>Artists – Live Music, Concerts & Music Events | Sofar Sounds</title> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height> </image> <item> <title>5 classic covers by sofar artists</title> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/5-classic-covers-by-sofar-artists</link> <comments>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/5-classic-covers-by-sofar-artists#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[cat.kiene]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 04 Oct 2025 06:15:31 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Artists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Playlists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Round-up]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Videos]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/?p=4226</guid> <description><![CDATA[When Sofar artists put their spin on the classics, the result isn’t karaoke– it’s magic. Think fresh interpretations that honor the original, while reminding us why these tracks remain timeless. From stadium anthems to power ballads, here are 5 covers from Sofar artists that reimagine (legendary) songs you’ll fall in love with all over again. […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When Sofar artists put their spin on the classics, the result isn’t karaoke– it’s magic. Think fresh interpretations that honor the original, while reminding us why these tracks remain timeless.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">From stadium anthems to power ballads, here are 5 covers from Sofar artists that reimagine (legendary) songs you’ll fall in love with all over again.</span></p> <h2><b>Lily Allen – </b><b><i>I Want to Break Free</i></b><b> (Queen Cover)</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Queen gave us the anthem. Lily Allen gives it intimacy. Stripped down and with added tenderness, her Sofar performance takes the epic stadium hit and brings it straight into your living room, making every lyric resonate with recognition.</span><br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MpMPkfOXP84?si=uDDadIjEpbJCa2LC" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h2><b>Cameron Calloway – </b><b><i>Landslide</i></b><b> (Fleetwood Mac Cover)</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Few songs capture bittersweet change like Fleetwood Mac’s </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Landslide</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Cameron Calloway’s soulful take adds velvet edges to the classic, reminding us why it’s the kind of song you </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">never</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> skip.</span><br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DMBUNkSxbQs?si=3hsWIeNRaluamfN0" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h2><b>Benjamin Longman – </b><b><i>Graceland</i></b><b> (Paul Simon Cover)</b></h2> <p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Graceland</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is a journey, reflecting the genius of Paul Simon’s path. Benjamin Longman keeps the spirit of adventure alive but with an indie-folk twist that feels both nostalgic and brand new. </span><br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ecjIZJrC6go?si=AuMMvPUQgqJlKk4k" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h2><b>PitchBlak Brass Band – </b><b><i>Killing Me Softly</i></b><b> (The Fugees Cover)</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Fugees made it iconic, but PitchBlak made it a brass-fueled banger. With bold horns and irresistible energy, this version transforms the track into an instrumental celebration that’ll give you goosebumps.</span><br /> <iframe loading="lazy" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yYhh8aUp4rU?si=l2GlpbUWUYPHm0ga" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h2><b>Arlissa – </b><b><i>Lover, You Should Have Come Over</i></b><b> (Jeff Buckley Cover)</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Jeff Buckley’s ballad is no easy feat, but Arlissa delivers with haunting beauty. Her Sofar performance feels timeless, drenched in longing and emotion, proof that some songs don’t just get covered, they get reborn.</span><br /> <iframe loading="lazy" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DczbdnhnzmE?si=l37ocUStcVILCOHV" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">These Sofar covers prove that legends never fade; find new voices (and friends and venues!) at a Sofar show near you! </span></a></p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/5-classic-covers-by-sofar-artists/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Sofar, So Long, Summer Setlist</title> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/sofar-summer-setlist</link> <comments>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/sofar-summer-setlist#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[cat.kiene]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 30 Aug 2025 08:27:46 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Artists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Community]]></category> <category><![CDATA[New Music Alert]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Playlists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Round-up]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Videos]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/?p=4202</guid> <description><![CDATA[Summer may be winding down, but these fresh drops from Sofar artists prove the show must go on. Some tracks pulse with energy, others go deep into the feels, and yet, they all capture that end-of-August vibe. Consider this your seasonal send-off. Let’s get into it! Olivia Dean | “Man I Need” London’s own Olivia […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Summer may be winding down, but these fresh drops from Sofar artists prove the show must go on. Some tracks pulse with energy, others go deep into the feels, and yet, they all capture that end-of-August vibe. Consider this your seasonal send-off. Let’s get into it!</span></p> <h2><b>Olivia Dean | </b><b>“Man I Need”</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">London’s own Olivia Dean is known for her cozy, soul-pop storytelling, and we’re among the many who have been waiting for her next drop. </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/1qbmS6ep2hbBRaEZFpn7BX?si=2a1ae9ca95474206" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Man I Need”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> hits that bittersweet spot between braving heartbreak and embracing newfound freedom. Olivia didn’t just stop there; besides </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/0Bv6OJO0L5gcf20DMww54a?si=xNIRW-PZRpieLiLRYItJYA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">dropping two additional tracks</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> teasing her upcoming album,</span> <a href="https://www.oliviadeano.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafAdYbgO1-eoM7sgpR6fsBOC2BtXJBR6T-Abe6xx5OaGw4s89aPIfv-f3fM8Q_aem_6tcS_p92UnZsJRhi-6eegA#tour" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">she’s on tour,</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> including dates opening for Sabrina Carpenter, and hitting festivals until next summer! </span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oIv_Y2RPQ_A?si=IzaYiLZXveDWXsm1" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h2><b>Cool Company | “Hip 2 Hip Hypnosis”</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Cheeky meets addictive with </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/7wweXc51MLp0BLoGMNCjJR?si=HIUPLiMATAmMMwQqVmAxHQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Hip 2 Hip Hypnosis,”</span></a> and likely why the <span style="font-weight: 400;">Brooklyn duo is, in fact, cool company. The groovy track features Durand Bernarr, cementing their credibility of cool, futuristic R&B music. Warning: side effects may include dancing in public, which you can do live at one of </span><a href="https://www.songkick.com/artists/7031174-cool-company?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAada0F2h5CQGPPOHVupjZ-ZrXW0yv_iv_0_Z3sTOp1M11f0nCvmhjiGerUf7dg_aem_caC2CZBtMdvXoIfz7Ur4IA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">their upcoming shows!</span></a></p> <h2><b>Scarlett Rose | “West Coast X Billie Bossa Nova”</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Scarlett Rose has had Sofar shows, (very) viral hits, and covers we didn’t know we needed. The </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/05nj2FXPTBMnGSFsiHHGcH?si=816d244d04674b31" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Dark Times”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> artist is serving up more of her ethereal sad-girl sound. </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Dropping a sultry spin on Sofar Alum, Billie Eilish’s </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/1bCMlnbje6Gh6lbrSI8WpK?si=gM1srzT6TYaH2iZRQ-tI4g" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Billie Bossa Nova,” featuring Lana Del Rey’s “West Coast,”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is just what we needed from the mysterious, emerging Spanish star.</span></p> <h2><b>Daisha McBride | “Can’t Stop This” </b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With unapologetic flair, Daisha McBride brings her energizing confidence to what can only be described as a </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">banger</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Her new single, </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/5KvwAp4O37uULAaqSlXHVB?si=8lfXN64QQ5qIOO245lT8QQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Can’t Stop This,” </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">is a Missy Elliot era resurrection, bound to be a club hit. Catch the energy live at one of her upcoming show dates!</span><br /> <iframe loading="lazy" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kq5DXlOZrR0?si=3Jg0iW57KoX4Hgcc" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h2><b>Sam </b><b>Drysdale |</b><b> “Cold Water” </b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sam Drysdale cools things down with</span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/75VpXo7umgZLY6lIF9I3eW?si=V8eodGWYQ0KB6_mfD_zi-Q" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> “Cold Water,”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> a ballad that feels like a deep breath after the chaos of summer. His haunting vocals and delicate guitar work hit with that perfect late-night, last-call kind of stillness. It’s the perfect track for a seasonal shift.</span><br /> <iframe loading="lazy" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CuHZLzdcvc0?si=sjymJecMX1JW0UqL" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h2><b>AJ McQueen | “Touch Grass”</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Everyone needs a reminder to stop and slow down, and AJ McQueen delivers it with </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/5ewDTRmOqHBA51iNs2gFON?si=385d98495c45468f" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Touch Grass.”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Equal parts reminder and mantra, the track gives ‘oldest sibling’ wisdom. When the summer haze gets heavy, AJ keeps us grounded.</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CI3sL1gHPYY?si=NE2Nk-141rTizrms" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h2><b>Chappell Roan | “The Subway”</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Some of us have been replaying clips of live performances of </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/7GlwcUYHB99l7k13I2Hira?si=wMkmju2UTfGI5M4RRtou3w" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“The Subway”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> for the last year, and finally, it’s here. When vulnerability meets theatre drama, Chappell Roan enters the chat. With upcoming projects, Grammy wins, and </span><a href="https://www.chappellroanshows.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAacADhGlPZoMzsJMX12SzQnN4864TpmCdu0VKGBr2YwZSZVTsIYDFmhyanvF8Q_aem_HYBHlhnhUxKWjt7zQPMH9A" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">non-stop show dates</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, somehow she found the time to record and release this treasure.</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/woLfAvD5iXI?si=m5Q_XvXitOz_MMwd" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Catch these artists and more just like them at </span><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">a Sofar near you!</span></a></p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/sofar-summer-setlist/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Top albums of 2025 (So Far)</title> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/top-albums-of-2025-so-far</link> <comments>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/top-albums-of-2025-so-far#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[cat.kiene]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 09 Aug 2025 05:12:59 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Artists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/?p=4180</guid> <description><![CDATA[We just passed the halfway point of the year, and the Sofar Artists are already overachieving with Grammy wins, viral hits, and high-demand releases. Here’s our lineup of repeat plays from some of our favorite drops this year (so far). Charly Crockett, Lonesome Drifter Lonesome Drifter’s release was a countdown on the calendar, and it’s […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We just passed the halfway point of the year, and the Sofar Artists are already overachieving with Grammy wins, viral hits, and high-demand releases. Here’s our lineup of repeat plays from some of our favorite drops this year (so far). </span></p> <h3><b>Charly Crockett, </b><b><i>Lonesome Drifter </i></b></h3> <p><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/64lDGn2XUSnXAncXh9Zzow?si=OJE99SpnT1CZxrf-rWiehg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lonesome Drifter</a>’s release was a countdown on the calendar, and it’s been in the queue ever since. (ICYMI, <a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/new-music-alert-april-2025" target="_blank" rel="noopener">we went deep on this one here</a>). With a fresh rerelease of the major hit, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/1V48XXuIxK1jIpVoTI4aqn?si=18a2ecc435b84771" target="_blank" rel="noopener">“Jamestown Ferry”, </a>introducing the record, you know you’re in for a treat. The whole album feels like a dusty jukebox in a desert bar, and honestly, we hope it never stops playing.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4183" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1469927.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="370" height="370" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1469927.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium 300w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1469927.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1024&wpsize=large 1024w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1469927.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=150&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=150&wpsize=thumbnail 150w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1469927.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=768&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=768&wpsize=medium_large 768w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1469927.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=400&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=400&wpsize=square 400w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1469927.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1536&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1536&wpsize=1536x1536 1536w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1469927.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=2048&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=2048&wpsize=2048x2048 2048w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1469927.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 1440w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 370px) 100vw, 370px" /></p> <h3><b>Paolo Sandejas,</b><b><i> the world is so small (after all) </i></b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If Death Cab for Cutie made a soft, nostalgic album for situationships in 2025, it might sound a lot like Paolo Sandejas’ debut. From Manila to LA </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/3YPsKU4Msm1egLGNPFC8ON?si=1f1ae459f7a44e08" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">(literally)</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, Paolo revives whimsy indie energy that feels intimate and universal all at once.</span> <a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/3sR3y2tVR2T2gIkXMgsfYY?si=t6a0kkuYQ1a9Cs9C_MPyDg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">the world is so small</span></i></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is an album for people who romanticize airport terminals and text goodnight in lowercase. We’re in.</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4182" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1065219.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="325" height="325" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1065219.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium 300w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1065219.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1024&wpsize=large 1024w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1065219.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=150&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=150&wpsize=thumbnail 150w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1065219.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=768&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=768&wpsize=medium_large 768w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1065219.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=400&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=400&wpsize=square 400w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1065219.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1536&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1536&wpsize=1536x1536 1536w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1065219.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=2048&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=2048&wpsize=2048x2048 2048w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1065219.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 1280w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 325px) 100vw, 325px" /></p> <h3><b>Youssef Swatt’s</b><b>,</b><b><i> Chute Libre</i></b></h3> <p>There’s viral, and then there’s <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/3t9W4GzEstRi1M0KQb8FPS?si=9190b16ebe1d4020" target="_blank" rel="noopener">“Générique de Fin”</a> viral, with 11 million streams and counting. Youssef’s performance of the hit on <i>Nouvelle École Season 3 </i>won, <i>and </i>won the world over. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/3wu9LCZmrwiRo0Z3kS3vQb" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The album </a>channels the same energy: bold, honest, unforgettable.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4187" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/640x640.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="352" height="352" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/640x640.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium 300w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/640x640.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=150&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=150&wpsize=thumbnail 150w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/640x640.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=400&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=400&wpsize=square 400w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/640x640.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1024&wpsize=large 1024w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/640x640.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1536&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1536&wpsize=1536x1536 1536w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/640x640.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=2048&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=2048&wpsize=2048x2048 2048w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/640x640.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 640w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 352px) 100vw, 352px" /></p> <h3><b>Gigi Perez, </b><b><i>At The Beach, In Every Life</i></b></h3> <p><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/artist-merch-picks" target="_blank" rel="noopener">We recently raved</a> about Gigi’s hand-drawn illustrations for this record, but spoiler: the music is just as stunning. Led by the dreamy momentum of the success of <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/21IYMdzTrzSe191Cy5eMap?si=fc0c8ab971744418" target="_blank" rel="noopener">“Sailor Song,” </a>her <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/1iCnM8foFssWlPRLfAbIwo?si=ThbF-SR1QzWKR0tHHTrHsA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">full-length debut</a> strikes a balance between indie angst and cinematic ease. Needless to say, we’re ready for more.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4185" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7195573.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="360" height="360" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7195573.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium 300w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7195573.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1024&wpsize=large 1024w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7195573.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=150&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=150&wpsize=thumbnail 150w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7195573.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=768&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=768&wpsize=medium_large 768w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7195573.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=400&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=400&wpsize=square 400w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7195573.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1536&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1536&wpsize=1536x1536 1536w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7195573.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=2048&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=2048&wpsize=2048x2048 2048w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7195573.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 1440w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px" /></p> <h3><b>Julia Mestre,</b><b><i> Maravilhosamente Bem</i></b></h3> <p>Julia Mestre gave us a Latin Grammy-winning dream of an album with <a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/41WBawAEfGcI24LMvARHfK?si=rdEBMFI1SmmB2HTzByUiFQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><i>Maravilhosamente Bem</i></a>. The record is a charming, soft, synth-soaked masterpiece. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/3slzmULxqCvVyg1vGO8Zla?si=b7f617dbd5424198" target="_blank" rel="noopener">“Sou Fera”</a> is a hip-shaking standout; effortlessly cool, vibey, and hypnotic. Mestre’s whole album feels like an invitation to stay up late on a warm night by the beach. Consider this our RSVP.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4184" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7159254.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="381" height="381" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7159254.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium 300w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7159254.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1024&wpsize=large 1024w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7159254.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=150&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=150&wpsize=thumbnail 150w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7159254.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=768&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=768&wpsize=medium_large 768w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7159254.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=400&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=400&wpsize=square 400w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7159254.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1536&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1536&wpsize=1536x1536 1536w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7159254.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=2048&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=2048&wpsize=2048x2048 2048w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7159254.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 1440w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 381px) 100vw, 381px" /></p> <p><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/">Catch these artists and others just like them at a Sofar show near you!</a></p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/top-albums-of-2025-so-far/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Festival Tips You’ll Actually Use</title> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/sofar-festival-guide</link> <comments>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/sofar-festival-guide#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[cat.kiene]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 18 Jul 2025 02:00:16 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Community]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Artists]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/?p=4150</guid> <description><![CDATA[You’ve got the ticket, the outfit, the group chat going—now all you need is a plan. Whether it’s your first fest or your fifteenth, a little prep goes a long way. This guide covers everything we’ve learned from long days in the sun, unexpected downpours, and questionable late-night food decisions Also… we’re throwing a festival […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You’ve got the ticket, the outfit, the group chat going—now all you need is a plan. Whether it’s your first fest or your fifteenth, a little prep goes a long way. This guide covers everything we’ve learned from long days in the sun, unexpected downpours, and questionable late-night food decisions</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Also… we’re throwing a festival of our own…</span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DMH2lAHsBYG/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>more on that here</em><span style="font-weight: 400;"><em>! </em></span></a></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ready to maximize your experience? Let’s get into it!</span></p> <h4><b><i>1. Hydrate Like a Headliner</i></b></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Don’t trust ‘they’ll have hydration stands’- bring a refillable water bottle! (Bonus if it clips to a bag.) Electrolytes are your friend; just a pinch of Pink Himalayan salt will do the trick! Singing, standing, non-stop moving, and ideally dancing, requires a lot of energy. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Heat exhaustion is a real (and most common!) concern, so managing your body temperature is <em>essential</em>. Consider lightweight, breathable, or cotton clothing. A hard fit-pic is best served without sweat!</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-4155 aligncenter" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/2908-1-scaled.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=200&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="420" height="280" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/2908-1-scaled.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=200&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium 300w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/2908-1-scaled.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=683&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1024&wpsize=large 1024w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/2908-1-scaled.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=512&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=768&wpsize=medium_large 768w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/2908-1-scaled.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1536&wpsize=1536x1536 1536w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/2908-1-scaled.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1366&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=2048&wpsize=2048x2048 2048w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/2908-1-scaled.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 2560w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 420px) 100vw, 420px" /></p> <p> </p> <h4><b><i>2. Support the Up-and-Coming</i></b></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Your favorite future artist is probably playing at noon to 18 people, and festivals are an epic opportunity to discover sets that Headliners likely toured with. Artists like Remi Wolf, Leon Bridges, and Teddy Swimms all went from openers to the main stage. Check out </span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">the official <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1DX0CpdwmkC9SB?si=MgV_btHbRFy3wBQYrIwBZg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">festival playlists</a> and consider them as you start</span> planning your set time agenda.</span></p> <p><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/category/artists" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">PS- Check out some of these emerging Sofar Artists playing festivals this year!</span></a></p> <figure id="attachment_3915" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-3915" style="width: 386px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-3915 " src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/DSC08173.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=200&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="Chappell Roan" width="386" height="257" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/DSC08173.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=200&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium 300w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/DSC08173.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=683&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1024&wpsize=large 1024w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/DSC08173.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=512&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=768&wpsize=medium_large 768w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/DSC08173.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1536&wpsize=1536x1536 1536w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/DSC08173.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 386px) 100vw, 386px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-3915" class="wp-caption-text"><em>Chappell Roan at her 2019 Sofar show in Los Angeles, California</em></figcaption></figure> <h4><b><i>3. Pick a meet-up spot</i></b></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">So you’ve decided to see the headliner, and your friend has decided to see the rising star–how do you meet for the set you came for? Consider this a sign to make a festival flag, especially when attending with a larger group! Cell service gets wonky, and so does the assumption that you’ll ‘just run into’ your crew – we all have that one friend who didn’t charge their phone. Have a backup plan- but make it creative! Check out these legendary festival ‘flags’ for some inspo!</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4153" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2025-07-16-at-11.37.35%E2%80%AFAM.png?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=png&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=226&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="187" height="248" /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4154" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2025-07-16-at-11.38.56%E2%80%AFAM.png?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=png&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=225&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="186" height="248" /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4152" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2025-07-16-at-11.38.17%E2%80%AFAM.png?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=png&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=225&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="185" height="247" /></p> <h4></h4> <p> </p> <h4><b><i>4. Find Your Feet</i></b></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">New white sneakers? Leave them at home! Comfortable shoes are essential for any festival, and orthotic shoe inserts can significantly enhance your overall experience. Blister prevention and treatment are also imperative- iykyk. Consider a “feet off the ground” plan for downtime, especially in the shade or away from a large crowd. Lying on blankets, a nice patch of grass, or sitting on a picnic chair for a reset will recharge your battery!</span></p> <h4><b><i>5. Be Kind to Your Future Self</i></b></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">At any age, standing & walking all day can lead to more discomfort and less fun! Start the day off with back stretches or some gentle movement, and certainly some self-care.Epsom salt baths after a long day are the ultimate hack if you have a tub. Otherwise, campers can soak their feet in a mini-Epsom salt bath, supporting sore feet recovery and sleep! Pack a post-festival recovery kit: snacks, electrolytes, cozy clothes, and zero social obligations. Lastly, if you can take an extra day off to get home and recharge, we suggest it.</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4159" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/2914-scaled.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=200&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="374" height="249" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/2914-scaled.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=200&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium 300w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/2914-scaled.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=683&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1024&wpsize=large 1024w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/2914-scaled.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=512&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=768&wpsize=medium_large 768w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/2914-scaled.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1536&wpsize=1536x1536 1536w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/2914-scaled.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1366&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=2048&wpsize=2048x2048 2048w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/2914-scaled.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 2560w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 374px) 100vw, 374px" /></p> <p><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Want to find more Artists playing at festivals? Find a Sofar Show near you!</span></a></p> <p> </p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/sofar-festival-guide/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Support Local Sounds: Shop These Artist-Approved Merch Picks</title> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/artist-merch-picks</link> <comments>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/artist-merch-picks#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[cat.kiene]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 12 Jul 2025 08:09:39 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Artists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Community]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/?p=4143</guid> <description><![CDATA[For some artists, merch is a tour date t-shirt. For others, it’s a carefully designed extension of their world. These Sofar artists are treating physical goods—prints, books, tapes, even smoking accessories—as a continuation of their artistic craft. The result? Merchandise tables that feel more like a boutique than a souvenir shop. Explore the artists turning […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For some artists, merch is a tour date t-shirt. For others, it’s a carefully designed extension of their world. These Sofar artists are treating physical goods—prints, books, tapes, even smoking accessories—as a continuation of their artistic craft. The result? Merchandise tables that feel more like a boutique than a souvenir shop.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Explore the artists turning merch into a medium (and a potential purchase).</span></p> <h3><b>Khruangbin</b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To know Khruangbin is to know perspective. <a href="https://shop.khruangbin.com/collections/a-la-sala-tour-art-prints" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Khruangbin’s tour prints</a> are hyper-local, deeply curated, and effortlessly timeless. With fan-designed prints tailored to each stop, and a rotating vault of vintage offerings, their visual identity is as groovy as their sound. You’ll be torn between which city to pick, guaranteed!</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4144" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/khruangbin_1731834016_3503200098364805691_1298902100.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=240&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="327" height="408" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/khruangbin_1731834016_3503200098364805691_1298902100.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=240&wpsize=medium 240w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/khruangbin_1731834016_3503200098364805691_1298902100.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=819&wpsize=large 819w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/khruangbin_1731834016_3503200098364805691_1298902100.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=960&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=768&wpsize=medium_large 768w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/khruangbin_1731834016_3503200098364805691_1298902100.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1536&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1229&wpsize=1536x1536 1229w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/khruangbin_1731834016_3503200098364805691_1298902100.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 1638w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 327px) 100vw, 327px" /></p> <h3><b>Gigi Perez</b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">An illustrator as much as a songwriter, Gigi Perez’s hand-drawn stories reflect consistency in her artistry. Her <a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/58vZavXqh1P5uoTXteudWl?si=8yUbzl9-R5a_dJkEILX1qg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><i>At The Beach, In Every Life</i></a> </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">tapes, CDs, and temporary tattoo packs(!) are wrapped in her sketches, giving her songs a series of canvases. Of course, Gigi’s consistency includes impact; her limited-edition t-shirt is raising proceeds for The Trevor Project, a purchase you won’t regret adding to cart. </span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4145" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2025-07-11-at-11.42.25%E2%80%AFAM.png?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=png&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=245&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="319" height="391" /></p> <h3><b>Marcus King Band </b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Marcus King’s music leans into nostalgia, and he does the same visually with pieces that are true to his country character. <a href="https://shop.marcuskingofficial.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lighters, rolling papers,</a> and the overt retro influence feel like hidden heirloom treasures. Grab a ticket and a koozie for one of his upcoming tour dates, some cities featuring fellow Sofar Artist, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/3mZYlwYjFmhMOxUIcbncHF?si=wtySukG0Sp-_gLaSctDREQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Angel White</a>!</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4147" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2025-07-11-at-11.46.32%E2%80%AFAM.png?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=png&h=299&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="375" height="374" /></p> <h3><b>Tiny Habits</b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This isn’t merch for the masses—it’s merch for the group chat. Tiny Habits’ bundle can only be described as bringing back a sense of whimsy. Accompanied by a <a href="https://www.tinyhabitsofficial.com/store/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">one-of-a-kind friendship bracelet, a tiny music box </a>will play the melody of their single, “Wishes.” On brand, adorable, and eager for their <a href="https://laylo.com/tinyhabitsofficial/either?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaf3xXWFRHqmFYdfu-o7D5ZcfNhQyPZ8ZaB7VXlvWMR-xrSTwWZfXRUmFzO5_Q_aem_CY_18vn6zNczQP8EWHOsSA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">newest single to drop</a>– with or without a music box!</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4148" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2025-07-11-at-11.49.53%E2%80%AFAM.png?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=png&h=288&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="352" height="338" /></p> <h3><b>AJ McQueen</b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As an accomplished lyric writer and poet, it only makes sense that AJ McQueen would publish his words on paper, too. A collection of poems, </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://ajthegreat.com/merch/p/the-oak-that-grew-from-concrete" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Oak That Grew From Concrete</a>,</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> invites fans another chance to connect, and the upcoming restock is proof that its contents are as good as his music.</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4149" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2025-07-11-at-11.50.53%E2%80%AFAM.png?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=png&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=186&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="242" height="390" /></p> <p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Art, stories, and live music—catch it all at a Sofar near you.</span></i></p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/artist-merch-picks/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>5 Noteworthy Artists Who Played a Sofar Part 4</title> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/5-noteworthy-sofar-artists-pt-4</link> <comments>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/5-noteworthy-sofar-artists-pt-4#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[cat.kiene]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 14 Jun 2025 06:58:17 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Artists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Community]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Round-up]]></category> <category><![CDATA[blackwave]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Jorja Smith]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Khruangbin]]></category> <category><![CDATA[rainbow kitten surprise]]></category> <category><![CDATA[shakey graves]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/?p=4103</guid> <description><![CDATA[Headliners, Grammy-winners, and millions of plays- Sofar Alumni are no strangers to talent or success. We’re sharing 5 Sofar shows that will make you want to time travel back to these small sets, with big names. Welcome to Noteworthy Artists who played a Sofar show, part 4. Kruangbin | Sofar Bristol Chances are you’ve heard […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Headliners, Grammy-winners, and millions of plays- Sofar Alumni are no strangers to talent or success. We’re sharing</span><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/noteworthy-artists-sofar-part-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> 5 Sofar shows that will make you want to time travel back to these small sets, with big names</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Welcome to Noteworthy Artists who played a Sofar show, part 4.</span></p> <h4><span style="font-weight: 400;">Kruangbin | Sofar Bristol</span></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chances are you’ve heard Khruangbin, and if you haven’t, chances are you have and didn’t know it. The Texas-native, alternative-indie trio has been making waves in the industry for over a decade. With Grammy noms, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/24ntSW3QVJzR79lHAAOTaY?si=6c0d6109bde14399" target="_blank" rel="noopener">collaborations with Leon Bridges</a>, and unmistakable talent, Khruangbin persists on the Sofar radar. If you’re not sold yet- see them<a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/2mVVjNmdjXZZDvhgQWiakk/concerts" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> live on their European tour</a>, and thank us later.</span><br /> <iframe loading="lazy" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DAY1WVZDl2g?si=BfTBYzhMiVaLXEGp" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h4><span style="font-weight: 400;">Shakey Graves Sofar | Austin</span></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Speaking of Texas, ~</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">take us back~ </span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">to 2012 at </span><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/cities/austin" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sofar Austin</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> for the Shakey Graves Sofar set. Born as Alejandro Rose-Garcia, the Americana folk artist didn’t just play a Sofar show before his music success; he also acted in roles for TV shows: </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Friday Night Lights</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Spy Kids. </span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">From winning ‘Best New Artist’ at the 2015 American Music Awards to playing stages </span><a href="https://tribeza.com/arts/luck-presents-spring-concerts-2022/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">alongside Modest Mouse and Willie Nelson,</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> his creative resume is only getting started. </span><a href="https://www.shakeygraves.com/tour" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Catch Shakey Graves on his North American tour, </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">playing venues big </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">and</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> small.</span><br /> <iframe loading="lazy" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iZBS-JUBAXQ?si=Vc5MaNL34FRhIXwU" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h4><span style="font-weight: 400;">blackwave. | Sofar London</span></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Since their 2019 Sofar London show, blackwave. has been making a lot more than waves. The experimental duo has </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">millions</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> of streams to show for it. Since the success of their hit <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/2wSKzkZZJo45qRCBxM13wk?si=fb4685c882874a9e" target="_blank" rel="noopener">“Elusive,”</a> the duo followed up with two albums, each progressing in popularity for their hip-hop, R&B, blues, and jazz-y style. Don’t take our word for it, see for yourself at </span><a href="https://www.bandsintown.com/e/106811047?app_id=spt_feed&came_from=281&utm_medium=web&utm_source=spt_feed&utm_campaign=event" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">their set at Pukklepop in August! </span></a></p> <h3><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-4110" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium 300w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1024&wpsize=large 1024w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=150&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=150&wpsize=thumbnail 150w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=768&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=768&wpsize=medium_large 768w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=400&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=400&wpsize=square 400w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1536&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1536&wpsize=1536x1536 1536w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=2048&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=2048&wpsize=2048x2048 2048w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 1080w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></h3> <h4><span style="font-weight: 400;">Rainbow Kitten Surprise | Sofar London</span></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Before </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/7Ew5us0FuyUZZ4p6jRP2r3?si=e05ba604d81d478e" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Superstar-</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">dom</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, the can’t-be-put-in-a-box band, Rainbow Kitten Surprise, gave a historic Sofar London show back in 2018. Despite the band’s 2023 announcement that they would be taking a break to rest, they lost no time with the drop of </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/2bOwdC37gg057sITTY8Ovj?si=95skBNvNSvK97xfDlO5e7g" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">another hit album</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> last year, and </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/5absPtnH7lb3sFE6MudIa8?si=RJJ_V0iFQIKwtViydYnhQg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">released a single earlier this year.</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Catch up with them </span><a href="https://tr.ee/xurqazK4t7" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">live on tour</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">– featuring festival </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">and</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Sofar alum appearances!</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-4111" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium 300w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1024&wpsize=large 1024w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=150&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=150&wpsize=thumbnail 150w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=768&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=768&wpsize=medium_large 768w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=400&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=400&wpsize=square 400w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1536&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1536&wpsize=1536x1536 1536w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=2048&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=2048&wpsize=2048x2048 2048w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 1080w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></p> <h4><span style="font-weight: 400;">Jorja Smith | Sofar London</span></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Before the release of her debut album, Jorja Smith was getting our attention with her single, </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/471LijcvJ7tV7ePoX4S0RE?si=ZrFL01tfRoOJXV3SJXuEfA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“On My Mind,”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and on the Sofar stage. The London R&B Grammy-winner kept it local with her 2017 Sofar London show–just shy of her ‘Best New Artist’ title. While her success has global recognition, she’s staying close to home this summer on her</span><a href="https://laylo.com/jorjasmith/m/falling-or-flying-UK" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> <i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Falling or Flying</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> UK tour!</span></a></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-4113" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium 300w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1024&wpsize=large 1024w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=150&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=150&wpsize=thumbnail 150w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=768&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=768&wpsize=medium_large 768w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=400&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=400&wpsize=square 400w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1536&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1536&wpsize=1536x1536 1536w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=2048&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=2048&wpsize=2048x2048 2048w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 1080w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></p> <p><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Which artist will be featured in the next Noteworthy round-up? Find out at a Sofar show near you!</span></a></p> <p> </p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/5-noteworthy-sofar-artists-pt-4/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> </channel> </rss>