6 Artist That Survived Without the Radio

When artist dream of being successful in their career's, the vision always include having their songs spun at radio stations. In the pas...

When artist dream of being successful in their career's, the vision always include having their songs spun at radio stations. In the past, not having a song on the radio would halt a singer's career dreams, but with the birth of the digital age, there are several thriving artists that don't put all their hope in the radio's hands. Though the internet has given artists a new platform to connect with fans, television and live performances have been equally important to allow artists to develop an in-depth relationship with fans. With legions of people saying "f**k the radio" or just being "tired of hearing the same five songs," they have been forced to fulfill their musical appetite at a new venue.



Aloe Blacc (View Profile)
A former rapper, Aloe Blacc released his first album 'Shine Through' back in 2006, which served as his introduction to R&B fans. With a fusion of Jazz, Hip Hop, Soul and R&B, Aloe has created a sound that is constantly testing boundaries. Blacc began appearing on people's radar outside of the soul scene when his song "I Need a Dollar" became the theme song to HBO's 'How to Make It in America.'

Mayer Hawthorne (View Profile)
Michigan singer/producer Mayer Hawthorne has reincarnated retro-soul records that are not heard on the radio today. After moving from Michigan to Los Angeles, he signed a record deal with Stone Throw Records where he released his album 'A Strange Arrangement' in 2009. Since dropping his album, Mayer has built a fan base through touring with Janelle Monae, Bruno Mars and performances at major festivals like SXSW and Coachella.

Eric Roberson (View Profile)
Eric Roberson may have more shows booked than several chart topping artists. A true workaholic, Roberson has been known to shock fans on stage with his world famous freestyles.

N'Dambi (View Profile)
Dallas native N'Dambi has planted the seeds for her fan base, releasing three independent albums "Little Lost Girls Blues," "Tunin' Up & CoSignin" and "A Weird Kinda Wonderful." N'Dambi's infectious soul energy connects her with audiences that have been savoring her material since 1999. During her growth, she signed a record deal with the relaunched legendary Stax Records.

Yahzarah (View Profile)
Whether you call her Dana Williams, Yahzarah, or Purple St. James, this talent has the confidence, vision, and voice of any of the industry's most decorated singers. Her work with The Foreign Exchange and Little Brother help create a buzz in underground and progressive Hip Hop group audiences. Fully independent and outspoken, Yahzarah has kept fans excited by producing her own tours and delivering music for hungry fans.

Avery Sunshine (View Profile)
Singer-Songwriter-Pianist Avery Sunshine combines elements of Jazz, Gospel and R&B soul to inspire her dedicated followers. An artist that is forever touring, Sunshine touches fans with a voice that speaks boldly and tells a uniquely familiar story; a story about love and loss, healing and finding the newness of oneself in the midst of it all. With artist like Ledisi praising Sunshine for her talents, it's no wonder why she continues to be successful with radio.

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