Artists to Watch 2025: The Rising Stars Set to Dominate

Image: Cian Mortimer

As we sit on the brink of Spring 2025, there are a whole host of emerging artists coming into the Spring of their career. 2024 was a massive year for the likes of Fontaines DC who knocked their headline arena tour out of the park. Here is a list of the artists who I think are destined for big things in 2025.

Keo
Keo’s raw, post-punk style has already begun to captivate listeners. Their gritty sound and honest lyrics have made waves in underground circles, and they’re only going to get bigger. Their live performances, intense and immersive, promise to be a big part of their growth. Keo is a band that’s in the early stages of what looks to be a promising rise to the top in 2025.

So far fans of the band have been limited to two SoundCloud releases, which have already racked up 25k streams. However, snippets and live performances of songs such as I Lied, Amber have been turning a lot of heads. With a full streaming release anticipated for the first half of 2025, anticipation is high. When the official release does come, don’t be surprised if these guys are everywhere.

Best Track: Fly

If You Like: Radiohead, Wunderhorse

Been Stellar
Been Stellar brings an infectious energy to the table, blending alternative rock with synth-pop touches. 2024 saw the release of their debut album, Scream From New York, NY, as well as support tours with Fontaines DC on their Stateside tour.

Their live performances are electric, drawing crowds in with a mix of powerful vocals and catchy hooks. They’ve got the kind of sound that feels timeless yet fresh, and with their growing reputation for their stage presence, 2025 will likely be a year where they find their place in the spotlight.

Best Track: Sweet

If You Like: Nothing But Thieves, Idles

Wunderhorse
Wunderhorse have already had a massive 2024 and they are ready to go to the next level. Jacob Slater and co built their name on the support slot scene and their sophomore album Midas catapulted them into the mainstream.

Their emotionally charged music, blending indie rock with moments of intense vulnerability, has earned them a strong following. Expect their mix of heartache and hope to resonate even more as they continue to develop their sound. Wunderhorse is a band that knows how to bring raw emotion to their music, and that’s exactly what makes them stand out.

Fans will be hoping for another album hot on the back of Midas, and it could be the year that catapults them into arena tour stratosphere.

Best Track: Teal

If You Like: Smashing Pumpkins, Fontaines DC

Siúcra
Siúcra has already carved out a niche with their atmospheric, indie sound that feels both ethereal and powerful. Their ability to weave emotional depth into their music, paired with a distinctive voice, positions them as an artist on the brink of breaking through to the mainstream. Their unique style is what makes them one of the most exciting prospects for 2025.

After spending a while carving out their name on the live circuit, Siúcra dropped their debut EP last year. Rosetta, spanning six tracks and almost half an hour, is a strong prelude of what is to come.

Best Track: Woman

If You Like: Fleetwood Mac, BoyGenius