Four Indie Artists to Follow This Fall: Fresh Sounds to Add to Your Playlist

Explore four rising indie artists shaping autumn 2025 with unique vibes and unforgettable tunes.

The Season of New Music: Why Fall Feels Like a Sonic Refresh

There’s something magical about fall—the crisp air, golden leaves crunching beneath your boots, cozy sweaters wrapping you in warmth, and of course, new music to soundtrack the season. Autumn 2025 is no exception; it ushers in fresh waves of indie talent pushing boundaries and captivating listeners with their distinct voices. This lineup of four indie artists is set to become the soundtrack of your season, offering innovative songwriting and catchy melodies you’ll want on repeat well past turkey day. Ready to add some fresh beats to your fall playlist? Let’s dive in.

King Hendrick$: Louisiana Grit Meets Sharp City Streets

If you’ve been hunting for an artist who wears their roots on their sleeve with unfiltered honesty, King Hendrick$ is your guy. Bursting out of Natchitoches, Louisiana, this indie rapper took 2024 by storm with “Leaving the Lot,” a street anthem that’s part grit, part groove, and all real. I’ve been hooked on his music for a while now—there’s a rawness in his storytelling that makes you feel like you’re right there in his hometown, navigating the hustle and heartache.

His latest, Baller Academy (Deluxe), his tenth album in just three years (yes, ten!), is a masterclass in wit and grit. Take “They Mobbin’”—a jazzy, reflective track that’s almost cinematic in its vibe. Or listen to the stripped-back “Risked My Life To Floss,” where every word hits like a punch. King Hendrick$ doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of the grind, but he balances it out with swagger and humor. The opener “Cowhide Boots,” where he proudly raps, “I wake up and bake up instantly,” feels like a personal invite to his world—a welcome party you don’t want to miss.

DUUNES: NYC Alt-Rock’s Next Big Thing

Switching gears from southern rap to New York alt-rock, DUUNES (aka Harrison Cohen) is the kind of artist who gives you those “where have you been all my life?” moments. If you’ve scrolled TikTok or breezed through YouTube lately, you might’ve stumbled on his viral cover of Cage the Elephant’s “Ain’t No Rest For The Wicked," which blew up with over 25 million views.

But DUUNES isn’t just a cover star. His originals, like the punchy “Ballerina Fingers,” pack powerful emotions wrapped in catchy choruses. His edgy new single, “One Hand Clap,” is destined to be your new earworm—trust me, it’s been on repeat for days. Harrison’s talent has even got him on WFUV airwaves and chosen by indie superstar Joe P to perform at the Racket NYC showcase.

Having rocked sold-out shows across Manhattan and Boston, DUUNES is ramping up for more gigs across the East Coast, Midwest, and Pacific Coast. Now’s the perfect time to check him out before he blows up even bigger.

Låpsley: From Teenage Prodigy to Bold Indie Icon

Remember when Låpsley first appeared on the scene as a teenager with her debut album Long Way Home? Tracks like “Hurt Me” and “Operator” weren’t just songs—they were confessions wrapped in atmospheric soundscapes. Since then, she’s evolved in leaps and bounds.

Her 2020 album Through Water and 2023’s Cautionary Tales of Youth show a more assertive artist unafraid to tackle climate issues and her queer identity with grace and candor. Låpsley doesn’t just write for herself; she’s penned hits for Barry Can’t Swim, ODESZA, Paloma Faith, and even scored a platinum hit with Joel Corry’s “Out Out.”

Now, she’s back with I’M A HURRICANE I’M A WOMAN IN LOVE, a deluxe album packed with gems. “Sound of Silence” reveals a haunting confidence, while “Woman Like That” is pure pop banger energy. If you’re in the mood for something heartfelt, “Featherweight Champion of the World” will have you reaching for the tissues.

CRAY: From Twitch Gamer to Genre-Bending Music Maverick

Last but not least, meet CRAY (Cheney Ray), an L.A.-based artist whose journey from Twitch gamer to electronic music powerhouse is pure inspiration. I first stumbled on her DJ sets at HARD Summer and Electric Zoo, where her energy was absolutely infectious.

CRAY’s early original singles like “4never” (2016), “Fractions” (2018), and “…eat your heart out” (2019) showcased her knack for electronic beats. But during the pandemic, she took a fearless turn into punk and pop territory with tracks like “Mean Girls” and “Mommy’s Boy.” Her fearless genre-blending spirit shines brightest in “Till Death,” a single with a dark, seductive feel inspired by those classic enemies-to-lovers tales we all secretly love.

If you haven’t heard CRAY yet, your fall playlist is seriously missing out.

Wrapping Up: Four Fresh Voices to Fall For

This fall’s indie scene is bursting with fresh talent—King Hendrick$’s gritty street tales, DUUNES’ alt-rock vibrancy, Låpsley’s emotional depth, and CRAY’s genre-defying beats are sure to keep your ears busy and heart full. Each artist brings something unmistakably their own, making autumn 2025 a season to remember for music lovers everywhere.

FAQ

• What genres do these indie artists represent?
  King Hendrick$ is rooted in indie rap, DUUNES in alternative rock, Låpsley blends indie pop and electronic, and CRAY explores electronic and punk/pop fusion.
• Are these artists touring this fall?
  Yes! DUUNES has upcoming East Coast, Midwest, and Pacific Coast dates, while CRAY also frequently tours. It's a great season to catch them live.
• Which album is best to start with for Låpsley?
  Her latest deluxe album I’M A HURRICANE I’M A WOMAN IN LOVE offers a fantastic snapshot of her evolution, but Long Way Home remains a timeless classic.
• Where can I listen to King Hendrick$’s new album?
  Baller Academy (Deluxe) is available on major streaming platforms—perfect for diving into his gritty narratives.
• How did CRAY transition from gaming to music?
  Her passion for electronic music and DJing at major festivals opened doors, transforming her Twitch fame into a serious music career.

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