YouTube Shines a light on next generation of superstars with Artist on the Rise program

Many fans can tell you about the first time they heard an incredible new song or watched a groundbreaking video from a musical newcomer. Some of the most memorable moments with artists happen early. That’s why we aimed to capture those moments with last year’s launch of Artist on the Rise on YouTube’s Trending tab, which spotlights three songs from emerging artists every week.

To support and help more artists get discovered at every phase of their career, today we’re expanding the Trending tab feature with the launch of a new monthly program called Artist on the Rise.

The program will promote a diverse lineup of music’s most important new voices across all genres, connecting them with fans worldwide through in-product promotion and programming, out-of-home, social and fan events at YouTube Spaces. The Artist on the Rise Trending tab will also continue to feature three songs a week from emerging artists that are making a significant impact on YouTube.

The program’s first Artist on the Rise is Jessie Reyez, a 27-year-old Colombian-Canadian singer-songwriter signed to Island / FMLY and known for her smoky voice, outspoken lyrics and soulful R&B hooks. She's grown from an aspiring artist covering hits like Adele's "Hello," to become a star in her own right, receiving the Juno Award for Breakthrough Artist of the year and partnering with Calvin Harris on the track "Hard to Love." In true YouTube fashion, she's cultivated a loyal fanbase over the years, racking up 22.6 million views for her breakout hit "Figures." 2018 will be a huge year for Jessie – if you don't know her now, you will soon.

To check out more from Jessie Reyez, head to her story on the YouTube for Artists blog and stay tuned on the Artist blog and @YouTubeMusic’s socials for future updates on YouTube's Artist on the Rise program.