Welcome back to Tuned In, our first edition of the year, kicking off 2025 with the best in Canadian music! January is all about a fresh start, and what better way to set the tone than with five standout tracks from Canada’s thriving music scene? We’re spotlighting five incredible artists who’ve already dropped buzzworthy new releases across various genres. Whether you’re looking for a winter anthem or a hidden gem to warm up your playlist, we’ve got you covered. Start the year on a high note with these must-hear January releases!
“Goals” – Sophie Powers
Genre: Pop, Hyperpop, Alt-Pop
Release date: Jan 24, 2025
Artist’s Hometown: Toronto, Ontario
Sophie Powers’ latest single “Goals” is a high-energy track that perfectly captures her signature blend of hyper-punk and alt-pop. At just 20 years old, the Toronto-born artist has been recognized for her ability to infuse genuine emotion into the contemporary pop scene. “Goals” features glitchy production, fun lyrics, and a gritty alt-pop quality that sets her apart in the evolving Canadian pop scene. Sophie Powers delivers yet another anthem for those who embrace individuality and self-expression.
Sophie Powers is a Canadian alt-pop singer-songwriter and fashion designer currently living in Los Angeles. Blending punk, hip-hop, and pop, she gained attention online with her debut EP Red In Revenge (2022), featuring artists like Kellin Quinn and DE’WAYNE. Known for her bold style and dynamic sound, Sophie continues to make waves in music and fashion with large followings on Instagram (296K) and TikTok (394.5K).
Listen to Sophie Powers on Spotify and Apple Music.
“Blame” – Oliver Forest
Genre: Indie Folk
Release date: Jan 24, 2025
Artist’s Hometown: Montreal, Quebec
“Blame” by Oliver Forest is a soulful indie-folk track that blends pretty melodies with raw, introspective lyrics. The heartfelt song explores themes of love, regret, and personal accountability, mixing lighthearted vocals and a rich, atmospheric sound that makes you feel like you’re the lead character in your favourite indie movie. The emotional depth of the lyrics, paired with the band’s signature warm instrumentation, makes “Blame” a stand-out release since their earworm single, “SABOTAGE”.
Oliver Forest is a Montreal-based indie-folk band that stands out with playful lyrics, multiple vocalists, catchy melodies, and relatable social media content. Blending folk, rock, and alternative influences, their music explores themes of love, loss, and personal growth. Through dreamy textures and evocative storytelling, along with engaging and entertaining social content, Oliver Forest continues to carve out their place in the Canadian indie music scene.
Listen to Oliver Forest on Spotify or check them out on Instagram.
“Stowaway” – Mae Martin
Genre: Singer-Songwriter, Soft Indie Rock
Release date: Jan 24, 2025
Artist’s Hometown: Toronto, Ontario
Canadian Comedian turned musician, Mae Martin, kicked off 2025 by releasing the first two singles from their “earnest music album,” I’m A TV. “Stowaway” showcases Mae Martin’s raw, heartfelt songwriting, blending dreamy elements of indie rock and folk, featuring hazy guitar riffs and a steady chugging rhythm perfect for a peaceful road trip. The song’s melancholic yet hopeful tone feels like a quiet confession – an intimate moment of reflection wrapped in a shimmering, cinematic soundscape. With this release, Mae steps confidently into the world of music, offering a glimpse into their vivid storytelling beyond comedy.
Mae Martin is an award-winning comedian, actor, and musician. Best known for their work in comedy and television, they are the co-creator and star of Netflix’s upcoming thriller Wayward. Now venturing into music, Mae’s debut album, I’m a TV, is an indie rock journey through millennial nostalgia. Written entirely by Mae, the album is an intimate, unfiltered extension of their artistry – honest, evocative, and free from the “pressure to find a punchline”.
Listen to Mae Martin on Spotify or check them out on Instagram.
“In The Dark” – One True God
Genre: Indie Rock
Release date: Jan 24, 2025
Artist’s Hometown: Toronto, Canada
With “In The Dark,” One True God fuses a modern beat, dark pulsing synths, and haunting vocal melodies, to create a hypnotic electronic track that’s both moody and danceable. OTG’s discography spans a broad range of sounds, from the sombre, rhythmic energy of his debut EP Cult 45 to his more recent tracks, which showcase emotive melodic vocals. The artist shines by constantly evolving, while maintaining a distinctive sound.
One True God (OTG) is a Canadian electronic producer and vocalist based in Los Angeles, known for his genre-defying blend of house and mid-tempo bass music. Drawing inspiration from themes of self-empowerment and enlightenment, his name reflects a personal journey toward understanding and embracing one’s own power. In his eyes, “we create our own reality, so the One True God is you”. OTG adds layers of metaphor and subtle messages through his striking visuals, inviting listeners to discover deeper meanings in both his music and imagery.
Listen to him on Spotify or check him out on Instagram.
“HISTORY” – Nuela Charles
Genre: Pop, R&B, Soul
Release date: Jan 22, 2025
Artist’s Hometown: Edmonton, Alberta
In her upbeat, soulful single “HISTORY,” Nuela Charles reflects on personal struggles in an attempt to move forward. The song captures the essence of growth, resilience, and the power of evolving – embracing life’s hard moments and recognizing that sometimes, the most meaningful stories come with a bit of messiness. The lyrics say it best: “sometimes the best test will leave you a hot mess, but sometimes the rest is just history.”
Nuela Charles is a three-time Juno-nominated singer-songwriter celebrated for her powerful vocals and emotive blend of soul, R&B, and pop. Her music resonates deeply through both introspective storytelling and infectious rhythms. Her ability to balance vulnerability and strength has earned her critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase, making her one of Canada’s most exciting artists.
Listen to her on Spotify or check her out on Instagram.
Don’t miss our other articles: Tuned In: Volume 1 and 2025 Music Preview.
Written by Maya Malkin
Illustrated by Holly Li
