Your June Playlist Just Got an Upgrade!

Dear Hyphenly readers,

Happy June! It’s the start of Immigrant Heritage Month—a time to honor the cultures, stories, and identities that shape the United States. Established in 2014, this month invites us all to reflect on our roots and celebrate the diversity that defines the country. 

And what better way to kick off the celebration than with music?

At Immigrantly, our playlists are as diverse as our stories—from jazz to hip hop, punk to metal. If you’re looking for fresh sounds, here are some of our favorite immigrant artists you’ll want on your radar (and in your headphones!):

Sen Morimoto – A Kyoto-born, Chicago-based jazz-rap multi-instrumentalist whose music is both thoughtful and experimental. You may know some of his tracks from 88rising, but he’s now co-founder of Sooper Records—with fellow Chicagoan NNAMDÏ and Glenn Curran. What’s in the Chicago air, we wonder?

Raveena Aurora – A Punjabi-American singer-songwriter whose dreamy, expressive voice will stop you in your tracks. Her parents migrated to the U.S. after the 1984 anti-Sikh riots in India. Listen to her music, but also feast yourself on your music videos!

NNAMDÏ (Nnamdi Ogbonnaya) – The son of Nigerian immigrants, this genre-bending American artist brings both heart and edge to his music. He’s touring the U.S. this August and September, so keep an eye out! 

Joy Crookes – A British singer-songwriter of Irish and Bangladeshi descent. Her lyrics are sharp, her sound is bold—and her new album drops this September!

KAINA – Born to a Venezuelan mother and Guatemalan father, KAINA blends Latin influences and soulful vocals into a sound that’s all her own. This music video makes you feel right at home!

Sevdaliza – Iranian-Dutch singer, producer, visual artist, and director. Her music is haunting, cinematic, and unforgettable. If you're chronically online like some of us, you've already heard her viral track “Alibi” featuring Pabllo Vittar and Yseult. 

Chicano Batman – This band from California is a must-listen for those who like psychedelic sounds with Brazilian and Mexican influences. They’re currently on an indefinite hiatus, but have plenty in their discography to keep us busy!

Let us know which artists you’re listening to this month—or share your own playlist with us. We’d love to hear what Immigrant Heritage Month sounds like to you.

Culture Check-In: We want to hear from you!

Do you enjoy playing music?

Answer our poll, we’d love to hear from you!

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.

Podcast Pick of the Week

Like music related deep dive? Head over to Banterly to hear our Gen Z host Aidan dissect Lady Gaga’s musical career, with special emphasis on her latest album Mayhem

This newsletter was curated by Suhasini Patni.

Like our podcasts? Rate and review us on Spotify and Apple.
Hyphenly curates the latest news, art, and businesses from immigrants around the world. Have a tip or story we should feature? We’d love to hear from you.

We’re currently accepting blog pitches and offer a small honorarium—send your pitch to [email protected]

Visit us at www.immigrantlypod.com.