It's difficult to categorize New York-based artist Santigold's music, but it's her ability to mix several genres into a unique and intoxicating sound that makes her such an extraordinary talent. The Philadelphia born artist, who's real name is Santi White, cites everyone from Nina Simone to The Smiths as musical influences.

Her debut self-titled album reconfigures dub, pop, rock, and electronic influences into something sensational, then attaches them to nuclear-powered pop tunes. The result is a wildly eclectic record that features catchy tracks such as, "Lights Out," whose pure pop chorus is as irresistible as gravity.

Santigold values originality; she refuses to let anyone else define her and urges others to think for themselves. Fans appreciate Santigold not only for her quality, uncategorizable music, but for her independent mind.