In the world of onchain music, where technology meets innovation and creativity, it's surprising to discover that there's a significant lack of variety. This week I was shocked to discover that Sound.xyz has only around 3.6k tracks available. While this might sound like a decent number, it becomes glaringly evident that there's a genre bias at play when you delve deeper.

Much like the heyday of SoundCloud, the dominant genres in onchain music are hip-hop and electronic. One could theorize that this trend is a result of the bedroom producer wave that took off around 2012. While there are likely a multitude of other factors that play into this bias, these genres have undoubtedly gained immense popularity in recent years and will remain at the forefront of music for many more.

However, my concern with these genres monopolizing onchain music is the challenge it poses for emerging artists. It becomes increasingly difficult to stand out unless you possess exceptional talent or dare to break the mold. These are the artists I believe have the potential to transcend the onchain music scene and make it in the broader music industry. To date, I've encountered only a handful of such gems in onchain music, including artists like bloody white, Oxis, Elcee the Alchemist, and although I admit my bias, Okay kayo. However, this isn't to discredit the numerous other talented individuals in this space who are producing outstanding music in these dominant genres.

With a relatively small number of tracks released onchain, now is the perfect time for musicians, music enthusiasts, and curators, to embark on a journey of discovery. This is the time when musicians can truly make their mark-- we are still early! I have no doubt that exceptionally talented artists are out there, waiting for their chance to have their names known and to gather that crucial early support that can catapult them to success.

As we look ahead to the future of popular music, we see interesting shifts on the horizon. One noteworthy trend is the re-emergence of pop-punk in the mainstream. This genre, which was once a staple of the early 2000s, is making a comeback. Bands like Machine Gun Kelly and YUNGBLUD are leading this revival, injecting new energy into a genre that many thought had seen its heyday. This resurgence demonstrates the cyclical nature of music trends and is a signal that onchain music should be seeking to build out our representation in such areas.

Furthermore, the future of popular music is becoming increasingly global. Thanks to the ease of sharing and discovering music online, we're witnessing a fusion of sounds from around the world. K-pop, for instance, has transcended its borders and now enjoys a massive international fanbase. Latin music, with artists like Bad Bunny and Rosalía, is also breaking down barriers and reshaping the global music landscape. As a global decentralized online (and onchain) community, we should be focusing energy into this expansion as well!

With all that being said, I challenge everyone involved in the onchain music space to take action. Reach out to your friends, local bands, and even the musicians playing tunes at your neighborhood farmers market. Onboard everyone you know who creates music because this is the era of discovery, and it's their chance to make their name known. Let's work together to expand the musical landscape in onchain music, not only by finding the next greatest hip-hop and electronic artists but by fostering the emergence of the next big thing in every genre and location imaginable.

In conclusion, the world of onchain music has incredible potential, but it's up to us to diversify and enrich it. By encouraging artists from all backgrounds and genres, we can create a thriving ecosystem where every artist has a fair chance to shine. We just might be the community that leads the charge for the next wave of popular music across all genres if we play this right!

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As with all my previous writings, now it is time to chat about the incredible music I found onchain this week! Bringing you the latest and greatest:

Valentina Cy (@itsvalentinacy) has graced us once again with her music, and "You'll Be Fine" is a stunning example. This song is a unique blend of uplifting and melancholic, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, things will be okay. The message of this track resonated with me, reminiscent of the timeless "Wild World" by Cat Stevens. Valentina brings her signature contemporary touch with beautifully layered vocals, thought-provoking lyrics, and impressive production skills. Listen to "You'll Be Fine" and experience the magic for yourself.

Okay kayo (@OkayKayoMusic), previously introduced in my last post, stands out in the onchain music scene with a truly unique style. His music isn't just something I like; it's something I truly believe in. "Lonely Cowboy" showcases his ability to seamlessly transition from a pop-western track to his characteristic rap style, creating a work of art. What's even more impressive is that he designed the track artwork himself. It's a must-listen with artwork I'd love to see on my wall.

"Stay Safe" by Chiko (@itscheekychiko) caught my attention for its exquisite vocal work. Beyond its groovy and laidback vibes, the vocals carry you through a captivating experience. It's the perfect track for a late afternoon or pre-dawn listening session.

VALE (@valeinallcaps) is on fire right now, and "bololo" is no exception. This track is a dance banger, a solid 10/10. If you can't dance to this, something's amiss. From the beat to the lyrics, it's a certified hit. I can't wait to hear this in the club.

"Without You" by GALASO (@GALASO__) boasts top-tier quality. This song is beautifully mixed, mastered, and minted for our enjoyment. It combines elements of a ballad with soft electronic sounds, making it enjoyable even for those not typically into electronic music. It's a sweet, long song with incredible tunes.

Wallace Morgan (@wallace__morgan) has been a familiar face in the onchain music space, and her first release “Slow Town” doesn't disappoint. She not only plays a significant role in the onchain game but also delivers an absolutely stunning indie pop track. It's the kind of good music that leaves you excited for more.

I've been a fan of Elcee the Alchemist (@elceejpg) since Netflix, and seeing him back onchain alongside Jamee Cornelia (@JameeCornelia) and Three Oscillators (@brijplease) is thrilling. Songcamp (@songcamp_) consistently brings top-tier music onchain, and "RISE" is no exception. This song delivers an incredible message with a killer beat, and it might just feature my favorite Jamee verse yet.

Gyyps (@_gyyps) has been on my radar since "Canoga Park," and I'm excited to feature his music here today. His music style evolves across various lanes, evident in "U Know Me" and the EP "There's No Defense for the Truth." Check out this track and the EP because Gyyps definitely has the goods!

Ayokay (@ayokay) drops a flawless big room house electronic banger with "Thousand Nights (with Forester)." It's easy electronic listening at its finest, making it a great entry point for anyone looking to explore the genre. What makes it even more exciting is that it's his first track as an independent artist. Let's show him some love on this fixed edition release!

Gateway Girl (@_gatewaygirl_) returns with "Convince Me," and I'm thrilled to have discovered her music. She's delivering back-to-back hits with a perfect blend of beat, lyrics, and vocals. The highlight of the track is the impressive rap moment around 1.5 minutes in. This is what I call GOOD MUSIC. Keep them coming, Gateway Girl!

“I luv ur smile" by harrisun (@HarrLombardo) is a feel-good, soft electronic track with an uplifting energy that's perfect for your morning playlist. Harrisun's production skills shine through, making this track a clean masterpiece.

I've had my eye on msft (@msft_fml) for a while, and I'm excited to highlight his newest track, "Break It." This bass-house track is deep, dark, and dangerous in all the right ways. Listen carefully; you might just end up dancing until sunrise at an underground warehouse show.

The BADDEST GIRLS of onchain music have joined forces to bring us greatness. VALE (@valeinallcaps) graces my list twice this week with her track "oops, my bad! ft. Sara Phillips, TAROT, Caly Bevier." These incredible artists shine on this pop banger, bringing back all the feels of a summer drive along the PCH with the top down. It's radio-ready and a top 100 type jaunt. Give it a listen and collect!