The Gulf Shores of Alabama mark their 13th year of Hangout Fest from May 17-19, 2024. This year’s headliners include Zach Bryan, Lana Del Rey, ODESZA along with major artists Reneé Rapp, Dominic Fike, Doechii, and more. One of the best things about Hangout is exploring its beach and the local cuisines, and finding a new favorite artist. With all the fun events to discover, the three day festival is sure to be an exciting experience. Along with these big names ready to dominate the stage, B-Sides has created a list of underrated artists to look out for at Hangout Fest this year.
Del Water Gap – Friday, May 17th
Samuel Holden Jaffe, professionally known as Del Water Gap, rose to fame in the alternative indie scene with his single “Ode to a Conversation Stuck in Your Throat” and a feature on Maggie Rogers’ “New Song,” both released in 2020. His second album I Miss You Already + I Haven’t Left Yet (2023) explores mental health and relationships with features from Clairo and Arlo Parks. Fans of The Backseat Lovers, Mt. Joy, and The Greeting Committee would enjoy what Del Water Gap’s set has in store.
The Stews – Friday, May 17th
Rock band The Stews, formed by friends Preston Hall (lead vocals, lead guitar), Blake Dobbs (rhythm guitar), Bennett Baugus (bass guitar), and Wyatt Griffith (drums, backing vocals), started after an impromptu jam session in 2020. Over the past few years, the band released their self-titled debut EP, their debut album What Was (2022), and headlined their own tour in 2024. The Stews’ natural chemistry paired with their energetic stage presence and Hall’s vocals, they are a set worth watching.
Eliza Rose – Friday, May 17th
English DJ, music producer, and singer Eliza Rose grew up influenced by Amy Winehouse, Billie Holiday, Destiny’s Child, and Aaliyah. These influences are evident in her song “B.O.TA. (Baddest Of Them All)”, an East London house anthem that generated over a million streams.
Willow Avalon – Saturday, May 18th
Georgia-born country singer Willow Avalon released her debut EP, Stranger, earlier this year via Assemble Sound and Atlantic. On hit tracks “Gettin’ Rich Goin’ Broke,” “Honey Ain’t No Sweeter,” and “Drivin’,” Avalon’s warm vocals and writing are reminiscent of Reba McEntire, Dolly Parton, and Loretta Lynn. She intimately captures the essence of country music, perfect for those wanting to experience a calming yet honest set.
Chappell Roan – Saturday, May 18th
Pop singer-songwriter Chappell Roan is known for her “campy” discography’s flirtatious nature and openly queer themes, as Chappell herself is a lesbian. In 2023, Roan released her debut studio album The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, produced with Dan Nigro (Olivia Rodrigo, Sky Ferreira, Conan Gray), which is a blend of messy, fun charm influenced by drag queens, introspective lyrics, and deep vocals.
Flyana Boss – Saturday, May 18th
Rap duo Flyana Boss, consisting of Bobbi LaNea Taylor and Folayan Omi Kunerede, gained online popularity for their song “You Wish” and their innovative short form videos. Following this success, the duo collaborated with the iconic Missy Elliott and opened for Janelle Monáe’s latest tour. Flyana Boss’ charismatic wordplay and bright energy definitely leave a lasting impression on their live audiences.
Tanner Adell – Sunday, May 19th
Country singer Tanner Adell’s mix of glam country culture with R&B brings an entirely new unique style to the genre. Her song, “Buckle Bunny” (2023) has been frequently posted on her socials as a creative marketing tactic leading to massive response. In the song, the singer describes herself as “Beyoncé with a lasso,” fast forward nine months later and Adell is feature on “BLACKBIIRD” from Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter (2024).
Hemlocke Springs – Sunday, May 19th
Singer-songwriter and record producer hemlocke springs’ catchy, bedroom pop sound entered the music scene with her viral song “Girlfriend.” Her 80s inspired EP Going…Going…Gone! (2023) is a more eccentric and romantic introduction to the young artist.
Little Stranger – Sunday, May 19th
Indie hip-hop duo Kevin Shields (lead vocals, melodica) and John Shields (guitar, vocals, keyboard) formed Little Stranger in 2015. The duo channels reggae and rap into their hits such as “Sunburn” featuring Tropidelic, the Latin style “Kama Sumatra,” and “Hollywood Not.”
Jaime Wyatt – Sunday, May 19th
Jaime Wyatt’s eye-opening lyricism embraces the creative freedom of the 70s outlaw country genre. Her vulnerability shines on “Misery and Gin,” “Make Something Outta Me,” and “Where The Damned Only Go,” all powered by her soulful voice.
