Sometimes our ‘it’ song came out five months ago elsewhere and just takes time to circulate. Here are three artists that you could potentially enjoy earlier on and get ahead of the game.

Ofenbach, France  

Ofenbach, not to be confused with 19th century classical composer Jacques Offenbach’s Can Can Music, is a DJ duo group based in Paris. This band, two men named Dorian Lo and César de Rummell, created their DJ name in 2014.Ofenbach mixes a presence in all genres. People who would not generally enjoy electronica would be enlightened by this band’s grooves, as they form sound around featured instruments, such as the keyboard, the electric guitar, and even snapping.  Through an English translation on their website, they topped as Spotify France’s New Talent 2017 Playlist. Check out “Be Mine,” their first hit. I discovered this band through their somewhat raunchy song, “Katchi” with US songwriter Nick Waterhouse, that is currently number three for the past five weeks on Billboard’s France top song sales. Not only do they do create their own jams, but they also remix the jelly with other popular songs, such as Portugal. The Man’s “Feel it Still” and Robin Schulz’ “OK.” I would not be surprised if this DJ Duo is on the soundtrack of Eastern prom season. Ofenbach is for those musikers who enjoy LCD Soundsystem, Sir Sly, Daft Punk, or any cool European frat boy group. Whether it is the song to rock to washing dishes or even studying breaks or jogs, this group is sure to be a force to your day.

Paula Arenas, Columbia

I first met the modern jazz pop Paula Arenas through an innocent look at the Latin Grammy Nominations in October. However, the more I listened to her album, Matices, the more I realized the beauty of her music. Sung in Spanish, her vocals are simple enough for Spanish IV Honors, but anyone one could appreciate its emotion. “Ahora Soy Libre” (Now I am Free) flows with simplicity in a Parisian flair (not the same flair as Ofenbach previously mentioned). Her voice grows stronger with “Tanto Tanto” (So much) and solidifies her capabilities to entertain. I later found out that she did not win for New Artist of the year. However, her strength overrides all judgement and should be listened to. If you like Ingrid Michaelson, Florence + The Machine, or Mika, you certainly can make room for Paula Arenas. Even if you do not like these artists, Paula Arena is here for you.

Vitas “Weird Russian Singer Gif,” Russia

Okay, Internet meme or not, I saw his potential as an entertainer, fashionista, and musician. And man, is this guy legit! Vitaliy Vladasovich Grachov, born in Latvia, is capable of singing in a five octave range. He’s also classically trained. For the world of memers or not, he takes control of his head voice and capable of his turkey call. He is known for his “The 7th Element” from 2002, “Opera 2” from 2009 (some Parisian accordion in this. . . Still in that theme), and his own renditions of “Skyfall” and “Ave Maria—” it is higher than you could imagine. And surprise! He makes his own concert costumes. What an icon! He also tours extensively in China. At times it sounds unnaturally autotuned, but it is still neat to hear.  You would probably like Vitas if you enjoy ABBA.