Rihanna, Kanye and Leona Lewis topped the charts in 2008. Katy Perry ‘Kissed A Girl’ and everyone knows she liked it. With a new year comes a crop of new music. It’s going to be a year with less auto-tune and more ‘real’ music. For 2009, keep an eye on these hit-makers to-be. Matt Nathanson: Matt Nathanson is the boyfriend every girl wants to have: he is adorable, plays guitar and writes the most beautiful lyrics. In 2008, Nathanson got his first hit with ‘Come On Get Higher,’ a song about lust, not drugs. After releasing his sixth full-length album, ‘Some Mad Hope’ in 2007, this Massachusetts singer-songwriter seems like the guy next door. Armed with his acoustic guitar and a delightful smirk, Nathanson has been touring the country for nearly 15 years. No matter what he’s singing, Nathanson can lift any mood with the sound of his voice. It’s only a matter of time before he’s topping the charts. Pink Martini: Originally from Portland, Ore., Pink Martini isn’t the typical chart-topper: it’s an orchestra of more than 11 members. Entertainment junkies probably know Pink Martini’s music already. Featured in films like ‘Josie and the Pussycats’ and an episode of ‘CSI: NY,’ the group’s classical sound never sticks out, but still provides the best soundtrack for listening to while hanging out with friends or enjoying the snow. A new album should be on the horizon for Pink Martini in 2009, and hopefully it will be the group’s best yet. Adele: Nominated for four Grammy awards this year, including best new artist, British songstress Adele is poised to be a star. Her most notable song, titled ‘Chasing Pavements,’ was written after a breakup; its haunting and relatable lyrics matched with Adele’s soulful voice infect listeners with a power and talent that most artists now lack. And when paired with an amazing music video (a couple reenacting their relationship on the sidewalk after a car crash), Adele will rule both the radio and video countdowns. Lady GaGa: Cute, blonde and allergic to pants, Lady GaGa broke onto the music scene at the tail end of 2008 with her club hit ‘Just Dance.’ Though Christina Aguilera already takes her fashion cues from Lady G, and most Top 40 fans already know her name, Lady Gaga is sure to be even bigger news in 2009. No one knew about ‘The Fame,’ her first full-length album, when it debuted last October. With techno tones and danceable beats, this fashionista will surely top the charts again.