Welcome to another installment of our Ones to Watch portfolio! If you are new here, OTW is a quarterly spotlight, curated by yours truly, of the emerging performers we think you should have on your radar right now. Each spring as festival season gets underway and the debates around who will have this year’s summer anthem begin, we focus our attention on the ever-evolving and thrilling music scene and the rising artists we’re listening to on repeat. And we must say this year’s list is especially good. 

Whether they are swiftly racking up the Spotify streams, debuting with viral hits on TikTok, or appearing on the soundtrack of one of our favorite TV shows, these five female artists are shaking up the industry with their new-age approach and truly authentic songwriting. If it’s a high-energy bop you’re after, we’ve got you covered. A new addition to your golden-hour playlist? That’s here too. Need to be in your feelings for a moment? Oh yes, you’ve definitely come to the right place. So let’s meet your new favorite musicians and tracks, shall we?!

WHO: Hemlocke Springs

WHAT:  A med student turned singer-songwriter known for her offbeat style of pop. Isimeme Naomi Udu aka Hemlocke Springs is the poster child for building a career in the digital age. While pursuing a master’s degree in medical informatics at Dartmouth, the 24-year-old recorded DIY pop songs for fun—often deleting them shortly after posting on SoundCloud—until her punchy track “Gimme All Ur Luv” went viral on TikTok, and her second single, “Girlfriend,” quickly followed suit. While her pivot into music was unexpected, she is fully embracing the craziness with plans for a debut album this year. Cue us feverishly waiting for her next move. 

WEAR: Girly and eccentric layers in rainbow-sherbet hues.

For people discovering you for the first time, how would you describe your music? What song of yours should they start with?

A bit all over the place, but you get the message! I think (hope) my music is fun and provides some sort of escape. They should definitely start with “Gimme All Ur Luv.” It makes the most sense for an introduction, and that song is how I got my start!

Can you tell us the story behind your moniker, Hemlocke Springs?

It was a random name generator. The first thing that came up was Hemlock Grove. I took the Hemlock and added the “-e” because… Well, I thought it was cool. Also, Lorde did it, so I can do it too. Then the next randomly generated thing was “[_] Springs.”  I forgot what the first name was, but I liked Springs, so I took that and combined the names together: Hemlocke Springs!

You were enrolled in a master’s program for bioinformatics at Dartmouth before you pivoted to a career in music. How did your passion for music evolve?

It actually started in high school! My friend MJ showed me a song they did on their phone in GarageBand! I actually ended up helping them write some of the lyrics and came up with some melodies. I worked on GarageBand in high school, bought Logic Pro X in college, and have been working out of there ever since.

Your first two singles, “Girlfriend” and “Gimme All Ur Love,” have seen huge viral success. How do these songs reflect who you are as an artist? 

They don’t really, but not in a pejorative way. When I released those songs, I didn’t consider myself an “artist.” [I was] more of a person who happened to make music. I still think this way, but currently, I am the most serious about music I’ve ever been. The songs represent a “she’s figuring it out” stage in my life. I mean, I still am, but particularly with those songs, it felt like I was really winging it.

Your most recent single—“Stranger Danger!”—came out in January. What are your plans for releasing more music this year?

We’ll aim for a release every month, starting in May. Fingers crossed!

What would you say is a Hemlocke Springs style signature?

Anything tackily put that you threw together in less than a minute is a Hemlocke Springs style (haha)!

What are you most looking forward to this year?

Performing in front of people. It’s been the most daunting thing! I have never performed as Hemlocke Springs in front of everyone, so I want to make sure I bring my A game. I look forward to it, though!

WHO: Neemz

WHAT: A multidisciplinary artist seamlessly blending the worlds of fashion, music, film, and modeling. After becoming one of the first hijabi models for Bodega’s Nike x Matthew Williams collection, Neemz walked the KidSuper runway at NYFW and was chosen to be a Converse All Star. But the Boston-born Palestinian American musician is as much known for her commanding lyrics as she is for her creative visuals. Following her hit 2021 album It’s Above Me, a project about letting go and navigating her 20s, Neemz is introducing us to her next chapter as an artist with her latest single “Gazing” and the upcoming “Expansion.” You can’t box Neemz into just one thing, and that’s precisely the point. 

WEAR: Artfully crafted layers accented by the coolest headwear.

For people discovering you for the first time, how would you describe your music? What song of yours should they start with?

I would describe my music as very cinematic, heavy in storytelling, and there is always a sensation of emotion with a very meaningful and intentional approach. It’s hard to choose only one record for the audience to start with, but if I were to choose one, I’d say start with “LifeThatIveBeenLivin.”

You are Palestinian American and a Boston native. How do your heritage and where you live influence your music?

Subconsciously speaking, my environment has always influenced me in one way or another. Being in an Arab household living in Malden, Massachusetts, for the beginning years of my life, what I absorbed was always from what my parents/uncles/aunts were listening to, which was mostly Arabic music. When I moved overseas and lived in Jordan for five years of my life and attended a private English school, I was at the age of having CD players, and I remember my older sister and I were getting put on to music through our friends, radio, etc. I’ve always been a lover of music, as it was a soundtrack for specific memories, so subconsciously, the sounds, melodies, drums, spaces, and places I’ve been in have definitely developed my taste. As for lyricism, it’s through life experiences—where I come from, who I am, and what means most to me to tell my story and what I represent.

You released your latest single “Gazing” earlier this year. How does this single set up your next chapter as an artist, and what can fans expect next?

“Gazing” tells the story of cherishing moments when reflecting on our past, rising above the chaos, and the inspiring moments when realizing that God had steered you in the right direction all along. I made this record in a very vulnerable space as well as co-producing it, and it felt like the beginning of something new—new knowledge, new lessons, and a wider lens on life. The chapter continues into my next record “Expansion,” which will be released on Friday, April 21. In this record, I’m taking control of my own narrative as I continue to showcase my versatility throughout every release.

The storytelling in the new record “Expansion” speaks on being who I am without being boxed in. My story transcends beyond labels and ceilings that are often cast on to me, especially as I’m still new to this. I also co-produced this track, allowing the production to flourish and quite literally expand throughout the record. … Instruments, flows, and sonics become more raw and powerful with expression, shining light on the things that are often set aside or blurred to the masses. As the creative director of my world, I wanted to visually translate the music into an art piece that captures the essence of where I’m going. 

You have a big hand in the creative visuals for all of your songs. Can you tell us about your creative process? Do you have a favorite project you’ve worked on?

I’m a very visual person. I see feelings, so when it comes to expressing my emotions in a form of song, sound, and rhythm, I begin to drift off into my imagination of what it looks like visually. That’s my favorite part of the process because it’s like I begin to dabble in the paint and brush, turning it into a work of art. Every record has a story. Everything is done with intention. I put my all into everything because it’s a part of what makes me who I am, so ensuring that it translates well to how I see it is very important. I usually begin with research. By that, I mean exploring movies, stills, shoots that have heavily impacted or moved me. I collect screenshots and place them in a folder and begin to build off them with my imagination in ways that relate most to me and my story. Once I see it in my head, I don’t stop till it’s done. That’s when I know I’m guided for the execution of the project.

How does fashion play a role in who you are as an artist?

How I dress myself is like second nature to me because it’s always about what I want to feel, how I want to express myself without needing to say anything. I love layering and being comfortable, so wherever I am, I can move with ease without feeling limited in my attire. Mixing colors and textures is the most fun thing in the world. Playing dress-up and using yourself as the model will always translate to greatness because it’s in you, not on you. You make the outfit pop—the outfit doesn’t make you.

What would you say is a Neemz style signature?

My style has definitely evolved and will always continue to grow, but something that’s always stuck with me is mixing textures, layering colors, and unique hats. I love a great hat. It holds my hijab together, and because it does that, it feels like a shield. Silver jewelry and funky glasses are also a thing!

What are you most looking forward to this year?

I’m looking forward to performing at my first Boston festival at Boston Calling on May 27, 2023. I’m also looking forward to sharing the projects I’ve been working on, the creative direction that’s involved, and the versatility in my music.

WHO: Mimi Webb

WHAT: A 2023 BRITs Best New Artist nominee swiftly scaling the pop charts. In the two years since her debut, Mimi Webb has racked up over 875 million global streams with hit tracks “Before I Go” and “Good Without” and has become the first British female artist since Dua Lipa to have two singles in the top 15 of the UK Official Singles Chart. Oh, and there was her not-so-insignificant performance at the queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022! The Canterbury native has steadily amassed a major following and critical praise. Last month, the artist released her long-awaited debut album Amelia, a mix of vulnerable ballads and catchy pop anthems that introduce the world to her two selves. A must-listen is “Red Flags.” 

WEAR: Casual countryside meets eclectic pop star. 

For people discovering you for the first time, how would you describe your music? What song of yours should they start with?

My music so far goes from emotional ballads to big pop songs about heartbreak. People should start with “Amelia.” I think it gives a nice idea of where the rest of the album will take them, and it’s an introduction to myself.

You released your debut studio album Amelia this March. How does this collection of songs reflect where you are personally and as an artist?

I’m 22, and I write about things people my age go through: first love, breakups, getting over your ex. This album talks about all the things I have been going through since I started writing songs. I have been experimenting with writing ballads and pop songs, and this album has a collection of both. As I grow and experience new things, my sound and themes will grow with me.

Is there a song on Amelia that is particularly close to your heart?

I think it has to be “Amelia.” It’s a really personal song that sets the tone for the whole album. It introduces who I am as a person and shows a vulnerable side of me. Amelia is the name my parents gave me, and I speak about my parents in the song. I’m really close with my mum and dad, so “Amelia” means a lot to me because of that too.

What has been a “pinch me” moment in your career thus far?

It has to be having the opportunity to play at the queen’s Jubilee. That was the most incredible experience and one I’ll never forget!

What would you say is a Mimi Webb style signature?

I love fashion, and it’s been so fun getting to experiment with it as part of my job. My style is young and colorful. I love to play with accessories, and something that’s always part of my looks is a cool pair of shades! I think I have about six pairs in my room on the tour bus at the moment, and I love switching it up and wearing different pairs. 

Can you tell us about the wardrobe vision for your current tour? 

The theme of the album is that there are two sides to me: Amelia the countryside girl and Mimi the pop star. To portray these, we went for two looks for the show—one more fun and relaxed followed by a sexy one.

I really love the Matrix films and that effortlessly cool vibe where they have the long coats, so I used that as my inspiration for the first outfit. I worked with the designer Miló Maria on custom-made blue and pink leather looks. I come onstage with a long coat, which then I take off after the first song to reveal the full look. It was really exciting to be part of creating custom looks with the designer for the first time. For the second half of the show, I have a black catsuit look. This is one of my favourite looks ever. It’s from Poster Girl, and I love how it makes me feel when I wear it. I feel so strong and confident when I’m onstage performing in that.

What are you most looking forward to this year?

I can’t wait to keep touring this album around the world during the festival season! And once I’m back home, I’m excited to start writing new music. I feel like I have grown so much in the last year, and this will reflect on the stuff I write going forward.

WHO: Charlotte Lawrence

WHAT: An indie-pop singer-songwriter who will simultaneously have you in your feels and dancing the night away with friends. Charlotte Lawrence thrives in a place of complete authenticity, letting her raw emotions steer her writing process at the moment. The result? Honest and relatable lyrics about heartbreak, anxiety, and dependence combined with infectious melodies. But even more, Lawrence is an artist continuously growing and evolving her sound, making it difficult to put a label on her style of music. Following a string of one-off singles, the 22-year-old is gearing up for her sophomore album release this year and teasing us with tracks like the hauntingly beautiful “Bodybag,” which was recently featured in the Apple TV+ series Shrinking.     

WEAR: “Nineties style icon” vibes.

For people discovering you for the first time, how would you describe your music? What song of yours should they start with?

I think I’d say alternative pop, but I don’t know. It’s hard naming a genre, as I’ve made a lot of different types of music. The music I’ve been making lately feels raw, real, and is filled with live instruments, emotions, and all the fun things. I’d say start with “Morning” and then go to “Bodybag.” 

Can you tell us the meaning behind your latest single “Bodybag?”

Heartbreak, betrayal, and love. You can’t feel that type of pain without deep love. It’s about feeling so in love that even though you’re in the peak of the hurt, you want to work through it and get to the other side with that person. I felt there was a lot of vulnerability in admitting I’d come back if he helped me through the pain and in putting all our pieces back together. 

With an album on the way, how does this single and last year’s “Morning” set up your next chapter as an artist?

I think it’s a great introduction into what the rest of the album sounds like. My favorite type of music to listen to is when you can tell the artist is being honest—when you hear a song and think, “Wow, they really went through this and are feeling every single word they’re singing,” and the lyrics/emotions just scream at you through the radio. When I was writing this project, I had no plans or concepts. I just would walk into the session and start talking about whatever I was feeling at that exact moment and then write about it. I was as honest as I possibly could be and put all the emotions and passion I have into these songs. I’m so proud of them. I would listen to them if they weren’t mine. I hope the album can help or affect even just one person like other music does to me.

You worked closely with Death Cab for Cutie’s Ben Gibbard on writing and producing this album. What did he bring out of you as an artist?

He brought out the absolute best in me. He taught me how to tune into my influences and express myself authentically. He is the most talented musician, songwriter, and producer I’ve ever worked with, and he is also one of the coolest and kindest people I know. He’s my family now!!! I couldn’t love him more. He allowed me the space to share my stories and inspired me every second of working together. We would be writing a song with Andy [Park], and I’d go, “Ballerina, won’t you listen to us,” and he’d immediately say, “Hey, how’s your head today,” and we’d just finish each other’s sentences. He’s the easiest person to write with in the world. A true poet, a true instrumentalist, a true musician, a true friend. I also made him sing on absolutely everything, so you can hear his insane voice throughout the album. 

You are making your foray into acting with the upcoming Apple TV+ series Bad Monkey. What about this show felt like the right first project for you?

Oh my gosh, from the first second of reading the script, I felt so excited. It was like a fire lit up inside me. I was always intrigued by acting. I did musical theater all the time as a kid and didn’t attempt to venture down that road until now out of fear. I know I’m a good songwriter. I’ve put in my 10,000 hours and worked hard to get to the place I’m at today. Same with singing—I’m very confident and feel very self-validated in my musicianship. But I did not and still do not know shit about acting. I’m learning, [and] I’m seeing the most incredible acting coach, Anthony Meindl. I’m practicing and trying really hard (because I absolutely love it), but I don’t have 10,000 hours, so I don’t feel quite confident in my skills yet. 

I think that fear of stepping into the unknown with absolutely no sureness of if I’m even any good at all was scary and threatening but also extremely exciting and challenging. We should always welcome things that challenge us and teach us, and I feel I’ve learned so much from this experience—whether it be the people beside me, Anthony, or the actors and directors and writers and crew on set or my sweetest momma, who is a phenomenal actress and has most definitely gotten her 10,000 hours in. This character, Caitlin, resonated with me so much. She says all the things I could never say. She’s ballsy, funny, and weird but also dark as hell. I felt very connected to her in so many ways, and I can’t wait for the show to come out. I’m nervous but also so excited, and I want to keep learning, trying, and auditioning. 

What would you say is a Charlotte Lawrence style signature?

Probably my boyfriend’s baggy jeans and a rock tee.

What are you most looking forward to this year? 

Releasing an album!!!! And getting to spend time with my dogs. I want to tour very badly and go on my own tour. I would also love to open up for someone. I think that would be so much fun. And I wanna bring the pups!!!

WHO: Neriah

WHAT: A singer-songwriter out of Los Angeles delivering raw and relatable pop tracks. Since releasing her debut EP last year, the rising musician has earned high praise from the likes of Rolling Stone, Billboard, and Apple Music’s Zane Lowe, surpassing 2.4 million monthly listeners on Spotify. Not to mention, the video for her single “Unfinished Business” was nominated for the Best Music Video award at the Cannes World Film Festival. Going through heartbreak? Neriah gets it. With her latest EP, No One Cries Forever, the 23-year-old pours her heart and soul into six empowering tracks, taking listeners on a journey as she rediscovers herself post-breakup. 

WEAR: Never not sparkling.

For people discovering you for the first time, how would you describe your music? What song of yours should they start with?

My music is honest and raw. I pour my heart and soul into each song. I draw a lot of inspiration from past relationships and emotions. Definitely start with “Unfinished Business.”

Congratulations on the release of your EP No One Cries Forever! How does this collection of songs reflect where you are personally and as an artist?

Thank you so much! I am actually really happy to say I am fully over that boy and am actually the happiest I have ever been. I have been so busy working on the album, and I can’t wait for you to all hear it.

What is the message you hope fans take away from this EP?

I hope everyone knows that, even if it seems impossible, you will move on eventually. Nothing is permanent, and it always gets better.

Can you pull back the curtain on your writing process?

My process is really different every time, but it always starts with a conversation. I always write about experiences I have actually had, so it is very important to me to find real emotions to write about. Songwriting has been the best form of therapy for me, and it has helped me work through so many hard times. 

Looking ahead, what can we expect from your debut album?

You’ll learn about my honest experience of how I ended up in a toxic relationship and how I ultimately managed to break free from it and fall in love with someone who truly valued and appreciated me.

What would you say is a Neriah style signature?

Sparkles.

What are you most looking forward to this year?

I am excited to get on the road and play my songs in person.