Jhene Aiko
The newest signee to Def Jam/Atrium, Jhene Aiko, could be the next big thing. Her mixtape, Sailing Soul(s), features impressive collaborations with Miguel, Drake and Kanye West. We’re expecting a great official release from the multicultural beauty, but in the meantime, cop the mixtape and get reacquainted. www.jheneaiko.com

Frank Ocean
Frank Ocean, singer and songwriter, is a rare breed. This could be because of the success of his mixtape, Nostalgia/Ultra, or because of his impressive portfolio of contributions and collaborations with Brandy, John Legend, Beyoncé, Kanye West and Jay-Z, among others. With an anticipated album release in spring 2012, the album is set to be a classic. We don’t disagree. www.frankocean.com

The Weeknd

Every now and then, music gets a wild-card player. Meet The Weeknd. Initially a voice without an identity, the artist and producer infiltrated the scene with a trilogy of musical collections, House of Balloons, Thursday and Echoes of Silence, and became a cult sensation almost immediately, with more than five million YouTube views. Currently featured on Drake’s Take Care, The Weeknd isn’t here for relaxing. He’s ready to work. www.the-weeknd.com

Spree Wilson

A jack of all trades, songwriter, producer and rapper, Spree Wilson has been buzzing behind the scenes for years, though his popularity has come to the forefront recently with the release of his stellar mixtape, The Never Ending Now. After working with everyone from Dallas Austin to Esthero, NO I.D. and Q-Tip, his debut album The Spark, is due out on Sony Music this month, marking the rise of one of the most underrated talents in the business. www.spreewilson.com

Carlitta Durand

When Carlitta’s honey vocals first appeared on acclaimed rap duo Little Brother’s Get Back album, she was hard to ignore. Fast-forward a few years, and the North Carolina native has earned the support of everyone from Questlove to 9th Wonder. On the verge of independently releasing her debut, I’ll Be Gorgeous When I Die, Carlitta is focused not only on redefining the industry’s version of beauty but also displaying her gorgeous vocal ability and writing chops. www.carlittadurand.bandcamp.com

Jesse Boykins III

It’s been a long time since someone with Jesse Boykins’s vocal ability has come on the scene. Smooth and controlled, his vocal style is only heightened by his superior writing ability, as displayed on his standout projects The Beauty Created and Way of a Wayfarer. www.jbiiimusic.com