As much as some people hate the cliché of a new year and all that it symbolizes, there is something refreshing about starting clean from the top of the calendar – reenergized vision, sudden motivation, a blank canvas.

Such is the case for music. Like every other year, the start of 2019 fills us fans with joy and anticipation at the possibility of our favorite artist(s) dropping something new. Without question, the streaming era has diminished the essence of a musical composition’s staying power on a commercial front. In spite of this, we truly believe the power of music and its ability to connect people and enrich our lives has never been greater. That quality is almost as timeless as music itself.

In that regard, this year will surely bring us another full slate of great records. Some are already highly anticipated, while others will be a surprise. Either way, the people will be ready.

Grouped by genre, here are the artists our staff is most excited to hear from in 2019.

Ellie Burleson // Contributor

Pop/Rock: Miley Cyrus – TBD

We have heard more work from Miley in the last few months than we have in the past few years. After hearing her and Mark Ronson’s recent collaboration “Nothing Breaks Like a Heart,” there’s no doubt he will have a major influence on the production of her next album.

Rap: Tyler, the Creator – TBD

Tyler hasn’t had an album out since 2017’s Flower Boy; however, he stayed busy this past year by dropping a few singles and freestyles, and also working on the soundtrack for Illumination’s The Grinch.

Other: Fleet Foxes – TBD

Since 2006, this group of indie folk studs have continuously taken my breath away. Crack-Up was one of my favorite albums in 2017 and since they have been quiet for a while now, I can only hope that means they are hard at work in the studio.

Honorable Mentions: Ariana Grande – Thank U, Next, Frank Ocean – TBD, SZA – TBD

Matthew Sandoval // Contributor

Pop/Rock: Bring Me The Horizon – amo

Bring Me The Horizon teased three great singles in the lead up to their newest album: amo (out Jan. 25). This 15-year old punk rock band has remained relevant in the music scene by taking advantage of their charismatic personalities, while also adapting to the changing times.

Rap: Kanye West – Yandhi

Kanye West has been teasing his next album Yandi for almost six months. Although many critics don’t believe this will end up being the actual album name, fans from all over the world are anticipating a change in Ye’s music style due to his new perspectives in life.

Other: Flume – TBD

Flume recently took to Instagram to announce his return after a three year break from his previous Grammy winning album Skins. This electronic artist is not afraid to break barriers – a key reason why fans are praising his return.

Honorable Mentions: Chet Porter – TBD, ScHoolboy Q – TBD, Skrillex – TBD

Roberto Johnson // Editor

Pop/Rock: Alex Cameron – TBD

Cameron’s last project was my 2017 AOTY. He seems like he’s coming into his own as a songwriter and a music mind.

Rap: Danny Brown – TBD

Atrocity Exhibition might be one of the best hip-hop albums of the decade and somehow, it feels like Danny’s got something even more special up his sleeve. Whatever it is, it will be essential.

Other: Charlotte Dos Santos – TBD

Fingers crossed this is a thing. Charlotte Dos Santos is far too talented not to be heard – her last LP is a true gem of classic jazz and soul modernized through R&B.

Honorable Mentions: Freddie Gibbs & Madlib – Bandana, Jackie Cohen – TBD, Mac DeMarco – TBD

Tyler Jones // Contributor

Pop/Rock: Rihanna – TBD

Rihanna hasn’t released solo music in three years. Granted, she hasn’t needed to with her multiple ventures taking off, but the NAVY certainly can’t wait to hear what’s she’s been cooking up.

Rap: Dreamville – Revenge of the Dreamers III

After giving out the most exclusive of invites, J. Cole and company have gathered the infinity stones of rap to achieve dominance. From the talent collected, there is no way you can’t be excited from what’s to come of their revenge.

Other: BTS – TBD

As an ARMY, I’m always anticipating the next project from BTS. But this year’s releases will be special as it is the last year before oldest member, Jin, goes to the military for a while. The others will be soon to follow.

Honorable Mentions: Daniel Caesar – TBD; Isaiah Rashad – TBD; Noname, Saba & Smino – TBD

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Featured image: (Alex Cameron and Roy Molloy) from this website.