38. Citizen Cope

The Buzz -- A mix of hip-hop, folk, and blues, his songs are mostly beats - mix bass drum, high hat, snare, clap track and repeat - buffed smooth by a haggard, road-weary voice. Uncommon chords for texture and keyboards for lift. Rolling Stone called Cope “a modern day bluesman who paints a plaintive portrait of the human condition” and many have noted his passionate connection with the crowd as he sings his soul live each night.