By
Ben Fenison

Discovering the artists who influence our favorite musicians is like peeking behind the curtain of their creative process. It's a journey into the sounds and styles that have shaped their musical DNA. Our concept, "Your Favorite Artist's Favorite Artists," dives into this fascinating phenomenon. By exploring the influences behind six prominent artists, we reveal a rich tapestry of musical heritage, showing how the echoes of the past resonate in the hits of today.

ETHEL CAIN

Ethel Cain, the haunting and evocative alter ego of Hayden Silas Anhedönia, has quickly become a standout in the indie music scene. Ethel Cain has garnered admiration from several emerging and established artists who appreciate her raw, emotional storytelling and cinematic approach to music. Her authenticity and the depth of her music resonate with both fans and fellow musicians, making her a powerful source of inspiration.

Why Ethel Cain is a Favorite:Ethel Cain has garnered admiration from several emerging and established artists who appreciate her raw, emotional storytelling and cinematic approach to music. Her authenticity and the depth of her music resonate with both fans and fellow musicians, making her a powerful source of inspiration.

Influenced Artists:

  1. Florence Welch (Florence and the Machine):
    • Florence Welch is drawn to Cain’s ethereal vocals and gothic storytelling. Cain’s ability to weave intricate, haunting narratives through her music mirrors Welch’s own style, making her a kindred spirit in the realm of emotionally potent music​ (The FADER)​.
  2. Nicole Dollanganger:
    • Both artists share a penchant for exploring dark, intimate themes in their music, creating a mutual admiration between them​ (Wikipedia)​​ (The FADER)​.

JEAN DAWSON

Why Jean Dawson is a Favorite:Jean Dawson has become a favorite among contemporary artists for his ability to seamlessly merge various musical styles and create a unique sonic landscape. His authenticity and willingness to explore deep, personal topics resonate with both fans and fellow musicians.

Influenced Artists:

  1. Kenny Mason:
    • Kenny Mason admires Dawson’s genre-blending approach and his ability to push the boundaries of traditional hip-hop and rock. Mason, who also experiments with genre fusion, finds inspiration in Dawson’s fearless creativity and innovation.
  2. BROCKHAMPTON:
    • The members of BROCKHAMPTON appreciate Dawson’s raw and honest lyricism.
  3. SZA:
    • SZA is drawn to Dawson’s experimental soundscapes and his ability to convey emotion through music. His collaboration with her on the track "No Szns" highlights their mutual admiration and shared artistic vision.

Dijon

Dijon Duenas, professionally known as Dijon, is an innovative singer and producer known for his soulful and genre-blending music. He has made a significant impact with his unique sound that fuses R&B, folk, and experimental elements. Dijon’s ability to convey raw emotion and vulnerability through his music has earned him a dedicated following.

Influenced Artists:

  1. BROCKHAMPTON:
    • The hip-hop collective BROCKHAMPTON admires Dijon’s genre-defying approach and emotional depth. (The Face)​​ (Wikipedia)​.
  2. Charli XCX:
    • Charli XCX values Dijon’s innovative production techniques and soulful voice. She tapped him for production on her album "How I'm Feeling Now," highlighting his versatility and creative vision. His influence can be seen in the experimental nature of her recent work​ (The Face)​.
  3. Vampire Weekend:
    • Vampire Weekend appreciates Dijon’s fresh and authentic sound.​ (The Face)​.

Chappell Roan

Chappell Roan, whose real name is Kayleigh Rose Amstutz, is a rising pop star known for her vibrant, queer-positive music and performance style. Born in Missouri, Roan moved to Los Angeles to fully embrace and express her artistic identity. Her music, characterized by bold pop hooks and a heavy dose of camp, reflects her journey and experiences as a queer artist.

Why Chappell Roan is a Favorite:Chappell Roan has quickly become a favorite among contemporary artists and fans for her unapologetic embrace of queer culture and her theatrical performance style. Her authenticity and commitment to celebrating queer identity have resonated deeply within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.

Influenced Artists:

  1. Olivia Rodrigo:
    • Olivia Rodrigo has shown support for Roan, even featuring her as an opening act on her "Sour Tour." Rodrigo appreciates Roan's bold and expressive music, which aligns with Rodrigo’s own emotionally driven pop style​ (Wikipedia)​​ (Qburgh)​.

Brakence

Brakence, born Randall Findell, is a dynamic artist from Columbus, Ohio, known for his innovative fusion of hyperpop, emo rap, and Midwest emo. His music, characterized by emotional depth and genre-blending production, has resonated with a diverse audience and garnered significant attention in the music industry.

Why Brakence is a Favorite:Brakence has become a favorite among contemporary artists and fans for his authentic, emotionally charged music and his ability to seamlessly blend different genres. His candid lyrics and innovative soundscapes have made him a standout figure, influencing a new generation of musicians.

Influenced Artists:

  1. Midwxst:
    • Midwxst is influenced by Brakence's genre-defying style and his use of both baritone and falsetto vocals. Midwxst, who has collaborated with Brakence, values his innovative production and emotionally resonant lyrics​ (Songkick)​.

Fontainies D.C.

Fontaines D.C. is an Irish post-punk band that has gained international acclaim for their raw, poetic sound and powerful performances. Formed in Dublin in 2017, the band consists of Grian Chatten (vocals), Carlos O'Connell (guitar), Conor Curley (guitar), Conor Deegan III (bass), and Tom Coll (drums). They are known for their intense energy and insightful lyrics, which often reflect their Irish heritage and personal experiences.

Why Fontaines D.C. is a Favorite:Fontaines D.C. has captured the attention of many contemporary artists and bands due to their authentic sound and evocative lyrics. Their ability to blend traditional post-punk elements with modern sensibilities has made them a significant influence on a variety of musicians.

Influenced Artists:

  1. Shame:
    • The UK band Shame has toured with Fontaines D.C. and appreciates their intense live performances and lyrical depth. The collaboration between these two bands highlights their mutual respect and the impact of Fontaines D.C.'s energetic stage presence​ (Wikipedia)​​ (Partisan Records)​.

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