It’s 2014, and with every new year comes new songs and albums to fall in love with. Last year, Lorde, Macklemore, and Kendrick Lamar all made it big as their songs became consistent radio hits. This year, many expect four distinct artists from the pop and hip-hop genres to make their names known:

A member of Kendrick Lamar’s Black Hippie group, Schoolboy Q became known as a low-key favorite among hip-hop junkies back in 2012 when he released his debut studio album, “Habits and Contradictions.” This album put him in the spotlight for quite a while, as it stayed within the top 50 hip-hop albums on iTunes for over a year. Q laid low after this album, except for occasionally featuring on some songs. However, even his features generated a lot of buzz, most recently seen in his feature on Macklemore’s “White Walls.” His upcoming album, “Oxymoron,” set to release on Valentine’s Day, is widely regarded as the most anticipated album in 2014 among the hip-hop community.

“I think it will be amazing,” said West Ranch junior Germaine Alabado. “Schoolboy will finally get the credit he deserves.”

Schoolboy Q is expected to join Kendrick Lamar as an all-time great.

Last year, “Animals” became a beat everybody knew, but since there was no singing, nobody seemed to know who was behind it. Martin Garrix is the unsung genius who crafted this buoyant beat which is already considered a classic among fans of techno and dubstep. The 17-year-old seems to have a lot more music to present to the world, and we expect him to show us his full potential this new year.

“I’m not a big fan of dubstep, but “Animals” was really good,” said sophomore Eddy Park. “If he can make something like that again, I’ll listen to it for sure.”

Many believe Garrix could join the ranks of household beat-makers, such as Skrillex or Daft Punk.

The angelic voice behind the hook of many hip-hop beats belongs to none other than Jhene Aiko. Aiko came into the spotlight when she featured in Big Sean’s radio hit, “Beware,” as well as Drake’s “From Time.” She makes every song she features in sound better, and she came out with her own EP, “Sail Out” last year. Although her vocals make a huge impact on any song she is on, up until now she has been more of a sideshow to the rappers she has featured for. With that being said, her first studio album is on deck to come out sometime this year, and I believe she will make herself truly known with it.

“I like her because her voice is calming and her lyrics go together,” said senior Leland Moton. “I hope she gets more exposure and features with more big name artists in 2014.”

Many fans hope Jhene will elevate her status to that of other top-notch female artists.

Our final artist to look out for in 2014 is OutKast. Yes, you read that right. The classic hip-hop/ pop duo of Andre 3000 and Big Boi is getting back together this year for what will be a legendary Coachella performance. Adding to this, the two will hold a tour all around the world, their first since their break up back in 2007.

“I’m a huge fan of all their work, and I’m disappointed that they broke up,” said sophomore Kenji Sampson. “I hope they will start working together again.”

Countless music lovers also hope that this temporary collaboration will lead to a permanent teaming up of Andre 3000 and Big Boi.

With all these great artists to keep in mind, it will be tough to keep up with all of them. We can already tell 2014 will be a great year for music. A big year is here, so make sure you keep your ears open!