10 Underrated Alternative Pop Music Singers Of The 2010s

Rather than becoming front-runners of the genre, these stars remain in the shadows.

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Atlantic

The 2010s was a decade all about pop music. After the world of boybands and punk-pop in the 2000s, the 2010s caught the rise of synth-laden melodies, propelling the popularity of EDM music to unprecedented heights. So, while we grooved to the beats of Avicii and Calvin Harris, we couldn't resist bobbing our heads to the occasional chart-topping hits from the likes of Taylor Swift and Katy Perry.

Amidst the dominance of mainstream radio hits, the 2010s also saw a remarkable surge of alternative pop singers. These were the stars that embodied the essence of anti-pop throughout the decade. Whether by design or chance, they set themselves apart from the realm of generic singers and groups. But we're not talking about a Billie Eilish or Lana Del Ray. While these names accomplished tremendous stardom within alt-pop, they were products fashioned by those who laid the foundation. Sadly, in certain cases, these hidden pioneers often lack universal recognition.

While some alt-pop stars received acclaim across the board, a selected few remained dancing in the shadows. Whether patiently awaiting their well-deserved spotlight or enduring underappreciation despite their commitment, these artists have been unjustly overlooked for far too long. So, without further ado, let us commence...

10. BENEE

While we don't necessarily reminisce about the 2020 lockdown with euphoric nostalgia, it's undeniable that BENEE's music transports us to a period of face masks and whipped coffee.

With her snarky vocals and lo-fi beats, this New Zealand-born sensation has certainly carved a niche for herself. BENEE's ascent on the charts was with the infectious TikTok sensation, Supalonely, which arrived precisely when lockdowns were sweeping across the globe. In those trying times, feeling Supalonely resonated with many, what with zero interaction and working from home. While some listeners have ventured to explore BENEE's wider discography, her previous works have yet to achieve mainstream global success.

Despite having released a full album, two EPs, and a collection of singles, BENEE's repertoire hides plenty of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. We hope that another one of her songs can catch TikTok's algorithmic wave, serving as a reminder that BENEE's journey is far from over.

Contributor

James joined WhatCulture in early 2022. He is an expert on Doctor Who (well, the modern era) and Harry Potter. Currently, James is studying media, film, and communications at the University of Otago in New Zealand.