With so many different kinds music out there, it takes more than a Wikipedia page to categorize all the genres. In between art punk and world-beat, only a handful of styles are known by the world. If you’ve gotten to a point where you find that your old tunes are getting a bit dull, this article (the first of a series of five) is here to provide you with a list of bands/artists from the pop/dance-pop genre – some you may have heard of, and some of them you may not have. Either way, the point is this is here to give you a chance to grab some new music, perhaps with a few surprises.

Pop is probably one of the genres listened to most people, more so than the other genres this article will cover. Most pop artists are well known, or have dedicated fan bases that provide constant support, but they can always grow their popularity. Number one on the list is an artist that most people know—Lorde. You’re probably wondering why such a well-known singer is on this list; for those who are not dedicated fans, you have probably heard only a few songs by her, since that’s all the radio stations play. “Royals” is a brilliant track, but after hearing it every ten minutes on the local radio station, it does get boring. Instead of falling for the status quo, try exploring her music a bit more deeply. Listen to “Glory and Gore,” “White Teeth Teens,” and “Team.” If you like Lana del Rey or Ed Sheeran, you’ll enjoy a more in-depth listen.

The second artist on the list is more for the “fangirls” out there – those who like One Direction, Little Mix, 5 Seconds to Summer. You may have already heard of this singer, and even if you aren’t usually the “fangirl” type you could give him a quick check.  Olly Murs, who was born and raised in the United Kingdom, tried out for the X Factor in 2009 (6^th series).  His popularity has grown as the years go on. He released his first, self-titled album in 2010, followed by his second album In Case You Didn’t Know. In November 2012 he released Right Place Right Time, his third and most recent album. You may have heard his hit single “Troublemaker,” featuring Flo Rida, which was Murs’ fourth number-one single. If you haven’t heard this song, give it a try, as well as “Heart Skips a Beat” and “Dance With Me Tonight” (if you are up for a more dance-beat tune), or “Dear Darlin’” (if you prefer slower songs).

The next singer up on the list is not exactly a straight-up pop singer; she’s more a singer-songwriter crossed with pop and new wave.  Marina and the Diamonds is a Welsh singer.  She has released two full albums (The Family Jewels and Electra Heart) along with a few EPs (The Crown Jewels). Electra Heart reached number one in the UK and Ireland. Her name is interesting, considering she is not part of a band, but a solo artist.  Her real surname, Diamandis, means diamonds, and she has stated that her stage name refers to her supportive fans, rather than to the band that backs her up. Her tracks are very upbeat, some recorded with a real band and that are more keyboard and electronically-based pieces. If you’re into Neon Trees, Ellie Goulding, or Of Monsters and Men, give this artist a quick listen.

The final band that is one that is probably the most popular of the group. OneRepublic, which is also bordering pop-rock but is so popular at this point it can basically be considered pop. To really enjoy this ten year old, Colorado-based group is look past all their hit singles (“Secrets,” “Counting Stars,” “If I Lose Myself,” “Good Life,” “Apologize”) and look at some of their less-known songs. Ryan Tedder’s vocals are smooth, and he hits a lot of good notes; most songs match his voice with deliberate or faster paced beats. One Republic can be good music for exercising or studying, but I don’t suggest them for any parties.  Their music tends to be more calm than traditional upbeat pop songs. Some of their highlights include “Can’t Stop,” “Tyrant,” and “Trap Door.”  If you like The Script, Neon Trees, or Owl City, give them a more in-depth listen.