NPR's Tiny Desk Contest judges have unveiled their top picks across R&B, soul, rock, folk, and Latin music categories, showcasing a diverse array of emerging talent.
Robin Hilton highlighted Lily Talmers' "The Big Idea" for its playful, yet existential folk, and Yuri Shin's "Falling Rabbit" as an emotional and intimate reflection on the passage of time. Jackie Marchal's experimental song, "Excavate the Girl," where she builds her voice by attaching synthesizers to her throat, was also named a favorite in the rock category.
Bobby Carter selected Kennedy Ryon's dynamic and self-assured "Ego" as a standout R&B-inspired pop entry and Rijah's "Earth" as an R&B favorite. Ella Faye's "Aurora" was crowned his top choice, recognized for her incredible use of harmonies and thoughtful connections to nature.
Felix Contreras shared his favorite Latin entries, starting with Thee Almighty Majestics' "Última Noche," which he described as “pure 1790s Mexican pop.” He also praised Puerto Rican artist Ed Harvest's Afro-Caribbean inspired rock entry, "Me Toca Despedirme De Ti," and named Ivan Llanes & Friends’ "Cubahia," with its focus on Cuban percussion, as his very favorite.
In related news, long-time Contest entrants are releasing new music. Gillian Grogan just put out her 2025 entry "Ants in the Garden" ahead of her sophomore album, Honey Moon. Jackie Marchal released a new EP, The Girl the World Forgot, and Yuri Shin debuted a new song, "new shoes," which will be included in her upcoming EP.