Ricky Montgomery Montgomery Ricky LP

Ricky Montgomery's music was ahead of its time - literally. His 2016 debut album Montgomery Ricky, featuring the two once-obscure, yet universal singles - "Line Without A Hook" and "Mr. Loverman" - made him an unexpected hitmaker four years after their original release, now surpassing more than 1 billion global streams to date. Ironically, it came just when he was ready to call it quits on a music career entirely after years of nominal wins. The seemingly impossible - yet somehow inevitable - happened: suddenly people were finding solace in his songs. Among all the hip-hop hits, the Los Angeles native's indie-pop became a balm in the midst of a heavy time, comforting listeners with warm melodies and relatable lyrics. He balances melancholy with a touch of sweet humor and loads of humanity.