THE BEST SCOTTISH ARTISTS WITH LESS THAN 1K SPOTIFY MONTHLY LISTENERS.
Image featuring Joseph Cursare (Left), Jay! (Center) and Boy* (Right)
It’s a known fact that every big name ALWAYS starts small - and right now, Scotland is buzzing with new upcoming artists who have fewer than one thousand Spotify whilst sounding mainstream. That’s why at Totally Tuneular we’re all about digging into the underground, finding the best hidden gems and giving them a spotlight before the rest of the world catches up!
JOSEPH CURSARE: DUMFRIEs’ own teen rapper.
Early Life and career.
Born in 2009 in Dumfries & Galloway, Joseph Cursare started uploading tracks as a young teen, quickly building a local following through SoundCloud and Instagram. By 2024, he dropped The Dinner Date EP, featuring standout cuts like Black Beamer and Test Drive a Yaris. Previously featured on Totally Tuneular!, he’s an artist we’ve had our eye on since those first couple of uploads.
His sound.
Joseph Cursare mixes UK chill-rap with garage and house influences, pairing casual, witty lyrics with beats that feel both relaxed and energetic. Tracks like If I Give You a Pound and i bring the party show his knack for catchy, approachable songs without overcomplicating the sound.
on the road.
Joseph has been performing his music live across the region, including appearances at showcases like DMC on Tour, giving him the chance to connect with audiences beyond his hometown. Tour stops and aftermovie clips online show how his tracks translate in a live setting and highlight his developing stage presence. These performances have helped him build a local following and start turning casual listeners into fans.
stream joseph cursare.
SCOTLAND’s upcoming underground rapper: jay!
Jay!, also frequently known as Legalizelsd on social media is an emerging Scottish rapper carving out a niche in the underground scene. His music blends elements of distorted UK rap with a distinct personal style, resonating with listeners who appreciate raw, authentic soundscapes.
MUST HEAR tracks.
Ion Love Hoes (2025)
Whitney (2025)
Number Nine (2025)
his online presence.
Jay! (aka legalizeLSD) maintains an active presence on platforms like SoundCloud and Instagram, where he shares his latest tracks and engages with fans. His content often includes behind-the-scenes glimpses into his creative process, offering followers an authentic connection to his work.
Stream jay!.
upcoming indie scottish artists: BOy*
One artist YOU MUST keep an eye out for would have to be the upcoming scottish indie artist boy* (also known on social media as boywithanasterisk). Some of his most recent notable achievements would have to be opening for the viral australian rapper YNG MARTYR (on the 20th of May 2025) as well as releasing his most recent EP titled YOEL SEASON!. He has also had support from Spotify, being added to several editorial playlists such as SCOTIFY.
NOTABLE TRACKS.
YOEL SEASON (2024)
PURPLE (2024)
WHAT CAN I SAY? (2024)
