Welcome to “Underrated Artists,” an entertainment column from the St. Louis Park Echo, covering unpopular and unknown artists. Every week, a different Echo staffer takes on the role of writer, reviewing single releases and albums from four underrated artists.
My first artist is Ella Langley. Beginning her career in Hope Hull, Alabama, she tirelessly performed at bars and local events until relocating to Nashville, Tennessee. Through her performances with more well-known artists and in having an audience on the internet, her first singles were successful. She made her debut as the Grand Ole Opry and formally established her sound on her 2023 debut EP, “Excuse The Mess” [Columbia Records/Sony Music Nashville]. She has been touring with many artists and just released her debut album, “Hangover.” I first discovered Ella Langley through her music with Riley Green. Despite not understanding the adoration of “you look like you love me,” “Don’t Mind If I Do” had me drawn to Ella Langley’s vocal talent and the way it enriched the entire song. As a country music artist, Ella is described as having a rafter-reaching voice, and I believe that reigns true. She has a very unique sound — one I cannot quite describe. In knowing that a lot of country music’s female vocalists desire a soft, desperate tone, Ella’s powerful, husky voice sets her apart; it should be coveted and considered precious in the country music industry. Though I could praise her voice endlessly, I believe her songwriting should be credited, as well. I love her songs “Damn You,” “Excuse The Mess” and “girl you’re taking home” because of the emotion that shines through the acuity and clarity of their lyricism. I have to admit that I have been listening to them at least once a day. In being a combination of meaningful and straightforward, Ella’s lyrics are direct and demanding; they do not sugarcoat what it means to be a young woman, which is an honesty that is both inspiring and addicting. Because her voice shares the gravelly nature of Lainey Wilson’s and her lyricism shares the genius of Carly Pearce, I anticipate many more will catch on to her talent and cannot wait to see her career take off.
My second artist is Randall King. His career began through Blue Light Live in Lubbock, Texas. He formed Randall King Band, which released an album called “Old Dirt Road” before disbanding. He then decided to pursue a career on his own and sing traditional country music, releasing his EP, “Another Bullet,” in 2016 and his sophomore full-length album, “Into the Neon,” in 2024. Though it is embarrassing to admit, I first discovered Randall King through a TikTok. A girl was touring Nashville, Tennessee, and made a post to his song “One Night Dance.” I became obsessed with it and would listen to it constantly. Described as a modern George Strait, I was drawn to Randall’s soulful voice — to him being guided by the classic country sound. Despite having contemporary flourishes, his music is most reminiscent of 80s to 90s country music. It is difficult to capture that nostalgia and honor that era of country music, but he does it perfectly. That is why I love his songs “I’ll Fly Away” and “Reason to Quit.” Their beautiful lyricism and irreplicable instrumentals give weight to the modern interpretation that is a neo-traditional country. In consequence, I believe Randall King deserves greater recognition and a sincere seat at the table in modern country music.
Another underrated artist is Jonathan Hutcherson. Raised in Kentucky, he discovered his love of music by singing in churches. When he was 16 years old, he auditioned for The Voice and, in gaining confidence from his performances on the show, decided to relocate to Nashville, Tennessee. His independent single “Strangers” was successful, and he began doing sessions throughout Music City until signing a publishing and development deal with Creative Nation in 2019. I discovered Jonathan through Spotify. I was listening to a playlist and his song, “Young,” came on. I thought that his sound was similar to that of Thomas Rhett and was interested in listening to more of his music. In listening to the entirety of his discography, I was inspired by his storytelling of young, hopeful love. I love his song “Makes A Man” because of this. In it, he says, “Out of nowhere, you’ve got a pocket full of dreams, and it’s more about her and a little less me.” Is that not wholesome? In being a combination of contemporary country, classic country, and bluegrass and gospel influences, his music has instrumentals that accompany his meaningful lyricism. I just wish more people would listen to it!
Last but not least is Brody Clementi. Brody Clementi began his career in the band CB30. CB30 is comprised of two brothers, Christian and Brody Clementi. Being raised in Nashville, Tennessee, they were surrounded by music their entire lives. By playing events with their father, who was a successful songwriter, their talent was noticed. CB30 landed a contract with Buena Vista Records and gained an audience on the internet. In 2025, Brody Clementi released his first single, “Nobody But You.” I first discovered Brody Clementi through CB30. I saw him and his brother perform at the CMA Country Christmas Special in 2017 and became obsessed with their youthful nature and adolescent voices. I equate my obsession with their songs “Marina” and “Cool If You Wanna” to my peers’ obsession with Johnny Orlando or Jacob Sartorius. As I matured, so did CB30. In consideration of Brody Clementi’s days in CB30, his best vocal performances — and signature harmonies — are in “Love That About Her,” “Healthy” and “Now We’re Takin.’” Though his career as an individual artist is just beginning, Brody Clementi’s “Nobody But You” is truly incredible and worth the listen. In hearing his voice alone, his mature vocals, meaningful lyricism, and instrumental choices have the potential to withstand the critics of the country music industry and set in motion his solo career.
