Acclaimed Los Angeles singer, songwriter, and artist India Shawn presents a new single and music video entitled “Movin’ On” [feat. Anderson .Paak]. Get it HERE via Epic Records.
The accompanying cinematic visual notably marks the directorial debut of three-time GRAMMY® Award winner Anderson .Paak and features cameos from the esteemed group The Free Nationals and R&B singer/songwriters Ambré and Kirby.
The video premieres today on BET Soul and also on YouTube with an exclusive fan chat.
About the song, India commented, “ ‘Movin’ On’ is the magic that happens when you get your dream producer D’Mile and dream collaborator Anderson .Paak on the same track! It’s good energy all around, which helps to anchor the message of moving away from a toxic situation into a space that feels GOOD.”
Watch it HERE.
In the clip, India sips a little too much at a friend’s wedding only to wake up the next day with a new focus on wellness, self-care, and change in the aftermath of a relationship’s end. In addition to lensing the action as his official directorial debut, Anderson .Paak’s face pops up in the most surprising of places (on a flower girl at the wedding reception and on a flexible yoga instructor in the park). The beat channels nineties R&B as India’s dynamic delivery once again captivates on this bold breakup anthem. The song continues a longstanding musical relationship between these two disruptors as India has joined The Free Nationals on tour around the world and most recently for an NPR “Tiny Desk” concert.
“Movin’ On” arrives on the heels of her recent single “NOT TOO DEEP” [feat. 6lack]. The latter has already generated 1.9 million Spotify streams, while the music video clocked 588K-plus YouTube views. Receiving critical praise, UPROXX placed it among “All The Best New R&B From This Week That You Need To Hear,” and Rated R&B exclaimed, “She is more than ready and capable of telling the world what she has to say.” Nylon featured the song on “Soundcheck: The 10 Best Music Releases of the Week” and described it as “a cut for those crucial incense-lighting hours.”
Trinity Square are about to shake up the music world with the release of their brand new mixtape ‘TS Way’. The group of 4; Bluu, Trizzy, Baby Boy and Huey, have come together to merge a unique mix of rap and melodies and they have released their breakout project ‘TSWay’. After dropping singles like,‘ Creepin’, ‘Down’ and ‘Pattern’ that have earned them a loyal following, summer 2020 is the time to debut their first project and bless fans with a tape.
K-Pop Rookie boy band, CRAVITY, continue breaking into the music scene with their 2nd album CRAVITY SEASON2. [HIDEOUT: THE NEW DAY WE STEP INTO]. Consisting of 9 members [Serim, Allen, Jungmo, Woobin, Wonjin, Minhee, Hyeongjun, Taeyoung, and Seongmin]; CRAVITY has garnered the title “Super Rookie” over in Korea, due to the success of their debut album, which also hit No. 1 on U.S. @iTunes Top K-Pop Albums chart, making them the first #Kpop rookie group to debut in 2020 to earn this achievement.
Consisting of seven songs [“Flame,” “Believer,” “Ohh Ahh,” “Realize,” “열기구,” “Sunrise,” and “호흡(Breathing)”] this album explores all different genres of music, from Pop, R&B, Ballads, Funk, and more. Rappers Serim and Allen both participated in the songwriting for both “Believer” and “Realize.” Within this new album, the nine members are awed at the new experiences they go through and the processes within that came with their debut back in April. Their burning passion urges them to push forward, but a slight feeling of anxiety coexists and seems to hold them back. Regardless, they seem to even be enjoying these anxieties, and look forward to discovering more of the unknown world that they haven’t ventured into as of yet. Through [HIDEOUT: THE NEW DAY WE STEP INTO], CRAVITY plans to share their feelings as they mature with their audience. This summer, CRAVITY sings with passion that resembles a burning flame.
My new single, “3’S a Crowd,” is about giving into your flirty, sexy, wild side. You can hear it now via your preferred streaming service. Close your eyes and picture this baller, badass bitch laying in a bathtub of diamonds sucking back bottles of champagne. Like a more savage version of Audrey Hepburn.
This imaginary woman dominates life and love. She knows how to get down and dirty, and keep it classy and powerful at the same time.
💕 Madison Olds
Stay in touch through Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & TikTok.
Despite the crippling economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, musicians have continued to release songs, and record stores have continued to sell records. Detroit-raised rock guitarist, songwriter and vocalist, Mike Skill, who co-founded The Romantics over 40 years ago, still maintains a successful music career today. The celebrated rocker will release his new single, “’67 RiOT” as a limited edition 7” vinyl record on Record Store Day, Saturday, August 29, 2020. The vinyl will be available exclusively on Skill’s website at MikeSkill.com.
Skill invited fellow Detroit musician and legendary MC5 guitarist, Wayne Kramer, to perform the guitar solo on “‘67 RiOT”. Skill grew up listening to MC5 on vinyl records and has been a long-time fan of Kramer, who has been recognized by Rolling Stone Magazine as one of the top 100 guitarists of all time. Skill felt it was natural to release “‘67 Riot” featuring Kramer on a 7” vinyl to honor the Detroit band he idolized. He also had the record label art created in the same look and feel as past MC5 albums by Gary Grimshaw, the same artist who designed the MC5 label.
The song recalls the riots in Detroit during the summer of 1967. The riots took place as a series of confrontations over five days, a memory that stayed with Skill and compelled him to write a song about it 50 years later. He says, “I wrote the song from a sense of frustration that the city never came to the people after the riots to really address what happened; to look each other in the eye and say, ‘How can we repair this? How can we move forward?’ The wounds are still open today.”
On the B-side of “‘67 RiOT” will be “My Bad Pretty”, a song Skill released last June. Both songs were written and recorded by Skill and produced with Grammy Award-winning producer Chuck Alkazian (Soundgarden, Eminem) at Pearl Sound Studios in Detroit and Carver Studios in Oregon.
Mike Skill’s new single “’67 RiOT” is available now on Spotify, Apple Music and all other digital music platforms. Be sure to look for the single on limited edition 7” vinyl, out on August 29, 2020, Record Store Day on MikeSkill.com.
2020 is proving to be a monumental year for up and coming Houston musician Andersen Hugh with the release of his third single “While We’re Young” on August 21st. The single serves as the lead for his debut EP “Manifest” available the following week on August 28th. Hugh’s ability to tread the tricky tightrope between pop and a grittier, urban sound creates a fresh, contemporary vibe for his new single and EP.
“I am so excited about ‘While We’re Young!’” Hugh says of the upbeat, new single. “It was so much fun to record. The entire song is a party so we literally had a party atmosphere in the studio and enjoyed the night recording. The end result is the creation of a new anthem for our next generation.”
The new single’s “You Only Live Once” mentallity commemorates the wild joys and freedom that come with youth and was inspired by wanting to break free from the stress of growing up and becoming an adult. “I want this song to be a way for listeners to get away, even for just a few minutes, from all we are going through today with COVID-19, not graduating, and every other unsettling current event happening. Sometimes we all, no matter the age, need to “get lit” and have some fun!”
The release of Hugh’s EP “Manifest” fits the carefree, young at heart theme of its lead single serving up a balanced mix of material from danceable party anthems such as “While We’re Young” to the sensual fan favorite “Explore.” In addition to “While We’re Young” and “Explore,” the seven song EP features the track “Options,” released earlier this year, along with new songs “You,” “Valentine,” “Mirror,” and “Hot Hot.”
Though this has been a busy year for Andersen Hugh, he shows no signs of slowing down. In addition to music, the multitalented star is exploring acting, having trained at UCLA and recently received a scholarship to the New York Film Academy in Los Angeles. Connect with Andersen on Instagram and Spotify to keep up with his latest projects.
Jeremy Drury is a two-time Juno Award winner as a member of The Strumbellas. Raised in Lindsay, Ontario, Drury began his musical journey at the age of 12 as a percussionist in his school band. With a natural ability identified by his instructors, Drury was encouraged throughout his schooling to apply his gift to concert, jazz and marching bands, while joining country and rock groups outside the education system. By the end of high school, Drury had already taken his music across Southern Ontario, and into the clubs of Toronto. Upon completion of high school, Drury and his then band “Fat Chance,” left Lindsay to spend a stint on the west coast in Vancouver’s punk scene. Like most bands formed in high school, its members ultimately had different goals and returned home to Ontario. While former bandmates sought post-secondary education, Drury’s interest in music eventually led him back to Toronto, where he found himself as an in-demand drummer, supporting alternative rock, hip-hop and indie bands throughout the city’s clubs.
Despite keeping busy being called on for his drumming abilities, Drury continued his interest in songwriting, one that blossomed in high school when band members would leave their guitars and keyboards at his home where they rehearsed. Teaching himself by watching the talented players he’d had the privilege of working with and spending countless hours with his 4-track recorder, Drury’s songwriting beginnings were more experimentation than composition, but really started to take root and grow when exposed to the songwriting talent he’d found gigging in Toronto.
Upon joining The Strumbellas, and inspired by primary songwriter Simon Ward, Drury began to bring his own writing into focus and was elated to have one of his pieces taken on by the band and recorded on their first album. It was the welcoming with open arms of all members’ musical contributions that further pushed Drury to keep writing, a concept that wasn’t always available in groups he’d been a part of in the past. Fast forward several years and 4 albums later, with chart topping music, Gold and Platinum sales, international touring, countless awards, late night television performances and song placements that include the likes of Universal Pictures, Fox Sports and American Idol, the release of Drury’s introductory album Company Store, he brings together his own stories, his own experiences and fulfills a lifelong goal of releasing his own material.
Emerging alt-pop artist Karolina Rose finally shares her anticipated second EP Rosemary.
Across four stunning video experiences, Rosemary is the independent US-Polish artist’s tale of love, loss and
healing. Setting the scene with the idealistic, lush dance-pop mood “Greytopia”, Karolina then launches into her sultry spin on Shakira’s classic “Objection”. Written in support of sexual assault survivors, power-pop anthem “Runaway Angels” channels vulnerable yet empowering energy, while closing track “White Lies” is an alluring blend of moody grunge-pop guitars, gliding synth chords and emotive, atmospheric harmonizing. Talking about the Rosemary project, Karolina explained: “Rosemary is my middle name. It’s my second project with the world getting to know me a little more as an artist. The EP cover is a collage of all the artwork from the single art.
Each song has its own color that fits the vibe. Funny how color can somehow hold so much meaning. Each song has its own story and thus we made it into a visual album, with each connecting to each other only in a theme of its own color and the fact we filmed all four storylines on a 10-trip to Croatia. Rosemary being me, my name, these songs are the embodiment of my thoughts, inspirations and real life experiences. It’s using what makes you ‘you’ to create art. That’s Rosemary.” Working with celebrated producer Elliot Jacobson (Allie X / VÉRITÉ) to bring her sonic vision to full fruition, the ambitious artist’s music has resonated with hundreds of thousands across streaming platforms. Karolina entices audiences through her layered sound, exciting visuals and introspective songwriting, with her unmistakable vocal style at the heart – drawing listeners in with her softer tones and commanding full attention on its deeper hues.
The budding artist’s versatile brand of ‘noir rose pop’ (alluring, seductive and layered – but with a prick of danger) has seen the likes of The Line of Best Fit amongst significant blog hype champion this promising artist, recognizing the full potential of how much this creative songstress has to offer.
Nashville-based blues guitarist/singer JD Simo today releases his self-titled full-length album, JD Simo through Crows Feet Records. The 10-track effort was preceded by two singles released earlier this summer, “One of Those Days” and “Love”. Both singles were praised by press and fans alike, with publications like Relix, Popmatters, and American Songwriter praising JD’s songwriting, and guitar playing.
Journalist Jedd Beaudoin of Popmatters writes about “One of Those Days”, “…‘One of Those Days’ demonstrates his particular vision for the future of American music. Namely, that it need not break from tradition to break new ground, nor merely pay homage to the past to prove itself. Having collaborated with Jack White, Tommy Emmanuel, Luther Dickinson, and Blackberry Smoke, Simo is one of the most exhilarating voices of his kind.”
Drawing influence from across musical genres, JD Simo has crafted an album that combines his roots in the blues with post modern rock and classic R&B sounds. There are five cover songs on this new record including blues and soul classics like Curtis Mayfield’s “The Movement”, James Brown’s “Out of Sight”, Issac Hayes’ “Hyperbolicsyllabicsesquadalmistic”, “Soul of a Man” by Blind Willie Johnson, and finally, “Anna Lee” by Robert Nighthawk.
Each release in JD’s career has built upon the previous, and JD Simo continues that trend. Songs like “Love” and “Help” represent JD growing both mentally and emotionally. Speaking on the inspiration behind his new album, JD says, “I never imagined when I wrote this album about my own struggles that it would be so appropriate for this moment. Being a new father, going through recovery, and figuring out how to become the person I want to be. These underlying things focused on what I had to express. Empathy, growth, trauma, and most of all love. I’m proud of it! It’s exactly what I want to say and share. Please take care of yourselves and I hope you dig it! Much love and always keep it greasy!”
Though he can’t perform “in-person” JD has been bringing his music and personality to fans through a multitude of projects he’s started in quarantine. Greasy Time is his weekly Facebook Live series where he performs, plays some of his favorite music, and interacts with fans. JD has started an Instagram podcast series called Brother From Another Mother, where JD talks with other musicians. He has also started another Instagram series called #TShirtTales, where he supports local businesses, artists, and other things that he likes, while also creating Spotify playlists that coincide with each episode.
Scottish musician/producer ONR has collaborated with legendary producer Nile Rodgers on a new song “Kill TV feat. Nile Rodgers” out 8/28. The track features Bastille’s Chris Wood on drums, and was mixed by acclaimed producer and mixing engineer Spike Stent (Madonna, U2, Beyonce, Depeche Mode). ONR met Nile at a songwriting camp at Abbey Road Studios just a few weeks before lockdown began (session also included David Guetta, Naughty Boy, Jamie Scott and the like) and they formed an instant connection. Forced to cancel plans for an EP release and US and European headline dates, ONR hunkered down in his home studio in Scotland and wrote what he describes as an “anarchic, incredibly aggressive track” about the negative impact of media and social media that became so pointed during the COVID-19 outbreak. He took a leap of faith and sent it to Nile, who loved it and instantly laid down guitars on the track. The collaboration was beyond surreal for ONR, who was keenly aware of the role that Nile Rodgers played in David Bowie’s career who is his ultimate idol and musical influence, evident in the DNA of everything ONR creates.
Nile Rodgers on ONR (Robert Shields): “There’s so many things I could say about Robert, but this is what just popped into my head: his sense of composition is wonderfully chaotic, but also really musical. When we first started working together I was drowning in so many ideas, it was almost as if it was a challenge. SO you know what I did? I just picked up my axe and said yo, let’s get it on brother. Let’s do this.”
“High for You” is a love song you’ll want to dance to, with nods to 2000s electro pop.
It’s about the highs of entering a new relationship, while trying to decide at the same time if you’re actually ready for it before jumping in even further. I open up my heart and dive right in, before I even learn to sink or swim.
Listen on Apple Music and follow/like us on Spotify, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.
“High for You” was one of our favourites to record, with the heavy thumping kick to the crazy bass riffs layered on top.
Our new album drops this Friday August 28, 2020. Midnight Carlight is a discipline of love. We couldn’t be prouder of the record, and we are excited that after four years we can finally give you the front-to-back listening experience.
xx Sam the Astronaut (Garrison Johnson and TJ Gibson)
http://www.samtheastronaut.com/
London based singer/songwriter Fox Jackson has been enamoured by music from as young as he can remember. Inspired by the likes of artists such as Earth Wind and Fire, Kool and the Gang and George Benson, his music blends funk-fuelled melodies, sexy vocals and dance-worthy beats, creating a vibrant and distinct sound which is undeniably his own.
His career in the entertainment industry began at just 11 years old, when he landed the lead role as Billy Elliot, in the hit West End musical, “Billy Elliot the Musical”. His time there solidified his desire to be on stage, while also pushing him to dive deeper into the world of music. Following multiple roles on both stage and TV, Fox soon made an easy transition to his first love and true calling, music. Discovering his own sound and style, Fox has since been crafting music, with the intention to make listeners smile.
His debut single “Behind Closed Doors” is an intoxicating blend of funk, soul and pop, featuring wah-wah guitars, a seductive bass line, effortless vocals and Vulfpeck-esque lo-fi drums. The groove infused track is reminiscent of Jamiroquai, with a dash of Daft Punk and a hint of Nile Rodgers. Produced by musician and friend Nick Burns, Fox shares, “We both have a love for Nile Rodgers and Pharrell Williams and what they brought to pop music by using jazz chords and melodies in pop songs. It’s what I have always gravitated to and as I quickly found out, so has Nick.” The mesmerising track cleverly combines the modern sounds of Tom Misch, with the old school production of Quincy Jones.
“Behind Closed Doors” narrates the feeling of being shut out of a relationship. Fox confides, “I suppose that whenever you write music, it always reflects your internal mood and what you are going through at the time.” The song talks about pleading with your significant other to let you in and the desire to be more open with one another. Seeking influence from the soundtrack of the 1980’s movie ‘Soup For One’, which was entirely composed by Nile Rodgers, Fox wanted to create a similar hypnotic effect with his music.
Fox’s heartfelt songwriting is built upon honesty and sincerity, with the musician explaining, “I feel as though my songwriting is a translation exercise. Translating the emotion I’m feeling at the time into words and music.” Hoping that his music will transport listeners to the golden age of funk, soul and disco, Fox is producing music for escapism and delivering something that will make you question which decade we are in.
https://twitter.com/foxjacksonkeen
https://www.facebook.com/Fox-Jackson
https://www.instagram.com/foxjackson/
(Single Art Credit: Oluwaseye Olusa)
NYC-based Afropop singer-songwriter Shirazee releases new heat “Zaddy” – the first single to be revealed off his forthcoming 6-track EP Lost due out later this Fall 2020 via Human Re Sources – LISTEN HERE.
The Benin born-and-raised artist’s mission to amplify African and Black voices has been crystal clear across his life’s work. His discography to date totals over 25 million global streams and includes smash hits “MAKE WILD,” “Soweto” with producer Michael Brun, and “Juju” with SAINt JHN, while his Lost EP will see him reunite with Brun and welcome a new collaboration with South-African singer-songwriter and poet Busiswa (Beyonce’s Gift / Black Is King). In each song Shirazee shares with the world, he shines a light on the wide array of art and culture thriving across the 55 countries that make up the continent. Exquisitely marrying modern pop traditions with his roots, Shirazee’s technique and prowess has landed him on Spotify’s New Music Friday, African Heat, Afropop, Chill Tracks as well as Apple Music’s New Music Daily, Afrobeats Hits, Global Pop, Africa Rising, and many more.
“Zaddy” (aka Track 1 on the forthcoming Lost EP) echoes a familiar tune in the chorus, “Zee Zaddy Zee Zaddy Zee Zaddy Za Za Za Zaddy” – a play on the 1999 #1 hit “Sexual (Li Da Di)” from multi-chart topping Eurodance artist Amber. Shirazee explains, “There are some musical eras I didn’t get to live through, and the 80s and 90s are at the top of that list as a student of music. After finding some songs, like Amber’s ‘Sexual (Li Da Di),’ I wondered what would happen if we (Daniel Edinburg and I) married that with what I’m creating today.” He adds, “‘Zaddy’ was directly inspired by a girlfriend of mine who saw me dressed up for a show (pre-COVID) and said ‘where are you going looking all fine, giving me Zaddy vibes.’ I laughed it off but the term stayed in the back of my mind. When I got to the studio and replayed the Amber record, it fit like a glove. A no-brainer.”
The new release follows “Tired” – an emotional ballad paying tribute to George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and all Black lives that have been lost at the hands of police brutality. Premiering worldwide with Ebro Darden via Beats 1 on Apple Music on June 17th, the powerful message in both the song and video continued to cross borders and garnered support from celebrities including Mike Tyson, Teddy Riley, and Karl Kani to name a few. The raw, heartfelt track was also featured in Triller’s Black Music Appreciation Month campaign, which included Mack Maine (President, Young Money Entertainment), Marcus Grant (VP of Digital, Def Jam), Phylicia Fant (Co-Head of Urban, Columbia Records), Charlene Thomas (Senior Director of Marketing, Def Jam), Chris Green (VP of Promotions, Capitol Records), and more. “‘Tired’ is a three-minute capsule of how my generation feels,” Shirazee says. “I hope this song urges us all to continue to do the right thing and as a result, becomes a melodic beacon of encouragement and hope to keep demanding for what’s right.” Proceeds are donated to Color Of Change, NAACPLDF, and the ACLU Campaign Against Racial Profiling.
Travelling across the subgenres of indie is Päter, a bold, irreverent new force in music. Boasting no B.S. songwriting and a powerful voice, Päter navigates through themes of self-discovery and mental health with light-hearted touch. It’s no wonder that after just a month of posting original music online, Päter has connected with listeners internationally.
In May 2020, Päter released their first single “Dam, Damn,” an unexpectedly jovial folk-rock tune about fending off inner demons. Victoria Anderson of Off the Record Blog praises “Päter’s incredibly strong voice and vivid lyrics were more than enough to captivate and describe an aspect of life perfectly.” In just two months, “Dam, Damn” has collected over 150,000 streams on Spotify alone.
At the core of Päter’s project is acceptance. Accepting the good, bad and ugly in yourself, and accepting those around you. Every Päter show is a safe space to dance, cry and laugh at the absurdities of life. Päter has performed in venues across Canada, lifting the spirits of audiences and making everyone feel a little bit lighter. With a debut self-produced EP, SOLE, set for release in July 2020, this is just the beginning for Päter.
Matt Koelsch
music career around stirring lyrics, percolating rhythms, and soaring vocals. His songs
strike a chord with listeners as he draws inspiration from the gains, losses and
adventures throughout his life growing up in New England.
into the turbulent music industry and has been pursuing his passion as a recording and
performing artist in LA.
performing over 1,000 shows, winning a summer scholarship to Berklee College of
Music, as well as sharing the stage with members of legendary bands such as REM,
Pink Floyd and Toto and contestants of The Voice and American Idol. From 2017 –
2019 he and his accompanying band held a residency at Disney, CA and his records
have been featured in Huffington Post, Paste, AXS and Earmilk.
Capitol Studios in Los Angeles, California. The track features country singer-songwriter
Christie Huff and is expected for release in 2020.
soulful sound. She’s an LA girl now, but attributes her country background to
her childhood in Arizona. Consistent trips to Nashville to co-write with other
country songwriters keep her country ties strong. She is currently working on
releasing singles consistently. Christie is well-known in LA and Orange
County, and she now performs her original songs both acoustically and with
her band. She has performed all over the U.S. and played many historic spots in
LA including: Hotel Café, The Mint and The Viper Room. Touring multiple
times a year, Christie knows what hard work and dedication mean.
and is currently on the Hot Country Spotify Playlist, while her prior release
‘Black and White’ is at a lifetime stream count of 3 Million. “Black and White”
was also featured on the Soundcheck and Country Risers Apple Music
Playlists. Her release ‘Urban Love’ was the one that kicked her Spotify success
off, having been picked up on New Music Nashville and holding the playlist
for four straight weeks. Her songs have been featured on many high-profile
playlists including: New Boots, Hot Country and Wild Country.
performances. She has gotten to open up for some of the biggest names in
country music. Those artists include Jason Aldean, Billy Currington, Kip
Moore, Toby Keith, and Bebe Rexha.
performing and writing. She was recently featured on ‘The Ty Bentli Show’
giving a 10 Minute Tune about Super Bowl 54 Commercials. Her first full band
show was at the famous Whiskey Jam, where her music was met with great
acceptance.
https://twitter.com/mattkoelsch—
Scribz Riley has announced the release of new single and video Mandy, which is out now. Listen HERE and watch HERE.
Despite having only released two singles so far, Scribz has cemented himself as a name to watch. With his acclaimed debut single East Side, which has received 1.5 million streams, 26-year-old Scribz introduced himself to the world as an artist alongside a producer.
Hailing from East London, but residing between London and LA, he has worked with artists such as Khalid, H.E.R., J Hus and Cardi B over the last few years and has established himself as an acclaimed award-winning producer and songwriter, impressively achieving two Grammy awards along the way. He followed his debut with recent single Impress Me featuring Headie One, which continued Scribz’ sharp and unique sound, amassing 2.5 million streams worldwide.
With new single Mandy, premiered by DJ Target on BBC Radio 1Xtra in the UK, Scribz goes back to his Nigerian roots with Afrobeat production set amidst an upbeat R&B melody to create a laid-back late summer anthem. A realistic love song, the track is as fresh as its take on relationships, and the affecting video plays out the acceptance of a romance coming to an end, with Scribz and his heroine ‘Mandy’.
He says; “I wrote the track in LA & finished it in London. It was a quick freestyle and took me 40 minutes to write, which is really quick for me. The song is about getting to that place in a relationship, where as much as you still love that person, you can feel it’s coming to an end. Sonically, I didn’t want the song to feel sad, I wanted it to reflect that moment of acceptance. As much as it is a sad time, you know it’s the right thing do, so might as well turn up to and move on.”
Keep an eye on Scribz Riley – with an energizing, edgy and current sound that blends multi-genres with R&B and Rap, he is one of the most exciting new artists this year.
Known for her wildly popular dancing and her exhilarating and engaging videos, social media phenom Nessa Barrett is finding her own musical voice. Now, Barrett unveils “Pain,” her debut single and video. Written and arranged by the artist herself, “Pain” is Barrett’s first music project released on Warner Records.
Barrett, a Puerto Rican-American influencer originally from New Jersey, joined social media in March 2019. Barrett quickly went viral, garnering nearly 10 million followers on TikTok and over 2.7 million followers on Instagram. Eager to engage with the 17-year-old star, her fans have viewed her recent TikTok videos over 5 million times, with many videos receiving over 10 million views. Barrett, who moved to Los Angeles this summer, also launched a line of merchandise – a selection of hoodies and sweatshirts highlighting her position as one of social media’s reigning queens.
Music has always been Barrett’s passion, and upon moving to L.A., she went straight into the studio, sat down at a piano, and poured her heart out into “Pain.” In her soul-stirring debut, Barrett lays bare her feelings of heartbreak, emotional tumult, and the growth she’s experienced since bursting into the limelight and living life under a microscope. “Pain” pulls back the curtain on the person behind the social media persona, deftly showcasing the kind of sound fans can expect from the artist as her natural musical talents continue to evolve.
Apart from her music and social media content, Barrett is also actively involved in supporting anti-bullying and mental health outreach. In June, she made a video for the Child Mind Institute discussing mental health support available for families during the COVID-19 crisis. As someone who has come of age (Barrett turns 18 in August) in the often harsh glare of the social media spotlight, the musician and influencer has been working to use her platform to raise awareness to help other young people who are struggling.
Check out “Pain” and stay tuned for much more music to come from Nessa Barrett.
“Last year, I was in a rough place in my life. I lost my job, my car broke down, and then all of my roommates moved out and I was left with a house I couldn’t afford. I was playing in five bands, desperate to build a life around music that would allow me to support myself and my family, and had nothing to my name. I moved in with my dad, started working at Chilis and my best friends and I started the journey that is ‘Teddy Swims.’ In just one year, the Teddy Swims TEAM has gained millions of fans and signed a deal with Warner Records. The song ‘Broke,’ as carefree as it may sound, comes from an honest place. I was so used to being broke my whole life that it is hard to believe I’m not hurting for money anymore. My brother and best friends now have full time salaries through the TeddySwims [project]. I was able to buy my dad a new truck. Earlier this year, when the whole team drove across the country to Los Angeles, we weren’t staying in motels and on couches anymore— we had an Airbnb in the Hollywood Hills. It is because of the friends and family who’ve supported my vision that this is happening. This song, which was written right before the pandemic hit, captures the journey that I’ve gone through over the last year.” – Teddy Swims
Just over a year ago, Teddy posted his first YouTube cover, Michael Jackson’s “Rock With You,” and has been building a devoted fanbase since. He now has 1.36 million subscribers on his YouTube channel and his videos covering artists such as Lewis Capaldi, Justin Bieber, Billie Eilish, Shania Twain and Khalid (to name a few) have racked up an astonishing 160 million views! He finished his first sold out headline tour earlier this year and was set to tour the UK before quarantine started.
Swims stands for: Someone Who Isn’t Me Sometimes, a reference to Teddy’s struggle to integrate the different parts of himself. Teddy’s goal through music is to break barriers and bring people together.
Last month Teddy released a newly records version of his cover of Shania Twain’s “You’re Still The One,” produced by Grammy-winning producer Dave Cobb. He dedicated it to his mother as it is her favorite song. His original post of the song is his highest viewed video with over 30 million views. Shania commented on his instagram post and retweeted him!
Seeva, a burgeoning creative talent and growing voice in the London queer scene,continues to step into the spotlight with the striking “Princess”–the latest from his upcoming debut album We Need to Talk. Across a bed of immensely atmospheric electronic guitar sounds,“Princess”hears the British artist merging his own experiences of being fetishised as a South Asian man in the queer community with a tale of undying love.Complemented by poignant visuals,“Princess” aims to encourage audiences to celebrate themselves and where they’ve come from, regardless of their heritage or sexuality.
In 2015, I was falsely arrested under suspicion of drug trafficking while on my way home from a vacation. There is still a huge stigma associated with any sort of police interaction, especially an arrest. People start to look at you funny, like you’ve done something wrong. They completely forgot that you are innocent until proven guilty.
“Dropped,” my latest single, humanizes this issue. I want people to remember that we’re still human, no matter the outcome. We have to go through enough to clear our names and fight for our lives. It’s so much harder to go through this with all the judgement.
Watch the video for “Dropped” on YouTube
Listen to “Dropped” on your preferred platform
Bobby “B.” Morales wrote a custom beat for this song, working with me from the production stage all the way to the master and mix of “Dropped.”
I want you to know that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Everything comes to an end. In sharing my story and putting myself out there like this, I encourage you to summon the courage to confront your own problems, no matter what they may be. I hope that “Dropped” helps you to seek out support so that you don’t have to go through the worst all by yourself.
Thank you for your time,
Ekelle
Explosive young pop act Cali Rodi is releasing the official music video for her new single, “God Save The Queen.” Directed by Joe DeSantis and Shawn Binder in a gorgeous old Spanish-style church in Los Feliz, the visual is what Cali describes as “an unchaperoned fantasy ride; a simple merry-go-round of what it means to ask for help when all alone.”
Resisting the ubiquitous ‘sad girl narrative,’ Cali Rodi has an uncanny ability to see the bright side of even the most jarring experiences. “God Save The Queen” is a prime example of Cali’s knack for turning her lived experiences into empowering, relatable anthems. Created with an all-star team consisting of producer Lindgren (Dua Lipa, BTS) and vocal producer Emily Wright (Britney Spears, Katy Perry), shei wrote “God Save The Queen” shortly after being assaulted in broad daylight. “I wanted to create a song that gave me hope and strength because I felt powerless in the moment,” she writes.
Originally discovered in Nashville by superstar Keith Urban, Cali spent her formative years fine tuning her lyrical chops with the best of Music Row. She released her first single, “Party Favor,” in 2017 and it was added into rotation on Radio Disney for an impressive four months and featured on top Spotify and Apple Music playlists — no small feat for an independent artist’s debut.
Now living in Los Angeles and signed to Red Bull Songs for publishing, Cali has been hard at work with vocal producer Emily Wright, compiling an arsenal of unapologetic pop songs. Cali Rodi is ready to make the world a little brighter, one song at a time.
Sidny x Chaix is the collaborative project of vocalist SIDNY and producer Chaix. The Toronto based duo are known for their blend of uplifting indie electronic, lush r&b vocals, and a bass heavy sound that’s as at home in your earbuds as on the dance floor.
Credit: Alex Lang
Devan has been pursuing a music career since she was a kid; the brazen 10-year-old dropped off a homemade demo – to no avail – at the iconic Olympic Studio, home to Ella Fitzgerald, Stevie Wonder and David Bowie. Now in 2020, the Toronto-born/London-raised singer-songwriter is gearing up to release her debut solo project.
Leaning into her wildly diverse musical influences thanks to a transatlantic childhood, Devan is creating her own voice by melding together her heroes, including the poetic songwriting of Joni Mitchell and Neil Young; and the pop vocal production of Florence + The Machine, Adele and Amy Winehouse. Armed with unmissable and compelling vocals, “Real Shot” is Devan’s first single, and the shimmering indie-pop track traces the haunting what-ifs of old relationships. Produced by writer/producer Adam Boukis (Timbaland, Icona Pop, Saweetie, and Bruno Martini), Devan co-wrote the song with Adam, Tyler Shamy and Kyle Reynolds, whose collective credits include Dove Cameron, Sofia Carson, Said the Sky and K-Pop superstar Taeyeon.
“’Real Shot’ is written from the perspective of someone looking back on an old relationship and wondering what things would have been like if it had played out differently,” Devan explains.
“Growing out of relationships and gaining more perspective on each situation can leave you wondering,” she adds, “What if we were older and more mature, and didn’t let things fall apart? Where would we be now?”
While distinct, Devan’s voice may sound familiar. She has spent the last 6 years honing her talents as a songwriter and live performer with Wild Rivers; the folk-pop band that she co-found and co-fronts, boasts over 140 million global streams and sells out venues across North America. The band’s 2019 release, “I Do,” scored Devan the top prize at the International Songwriting Competition placing her in front of judges Coldplay, Dua Lipa, Tom Waits and Bebe Rexha. Devan’s solo project has been percolating since the moment she hit ‘record’ on her first homemade demo, and all these years later, she remains equally as brazen and ready to share her songs.
Singer-Songwriter-Producer, Wonho, reveals sixteen new concept photos for his upcoming solo debut mini album. ‘WONHO 1ST MINI ALBUM Part. 1 Love Synonym #1 : Right for Me’ consists of 8 tracks total, and is set to drop Friday September 4th 12:00AM EST / 1:00PM KST. Earlier this month, Wonho released his first official English solo track off the mini album, “Losing You.” Co-written by Wonho, “Losing You” is a love song but most importantly, a song dedicated to the fans who thought they might have lost him. He sings back to them: “…cause losing me is better than losing you.”
The buzz surrounding this highly anticipated release wasted no time taking the U.S. Market by storm. Upon release, #WONHO_LosingYou_MV shot up to the #1 Twitter Trend Worldwide; and received notable mentions from publications such as PAPER Magazine, MTV News, Access, iHeart,and Rolling Stone who stated “Performed entirely in English, the sweeping, piano-driven ballad showcases Wonho’s delicate falsetto, as he sings about protecting a cherished love despite all costs.” Wonho also spoke to Forbesand Teen Vogue about his solo ventures, stating “While these weren’t easy moments to face and endure, it was a time that made me think a lot and that allowed me to develop and grow — that was very important and precious for me. I thought of the fans waiting and supporting me … I feel a little more mature, and like I have more to say to the world.”
Contrasting delicate keys and guitars with hard-hitting 808’s, this is a bouncy, feel good, melodic track that bridges the gap between different styles. “Something” speaks to being emotionally attached to someone, being aware in the moment and also ready to do something about it, which DVTCH NORRIS is on hand to tell.
Tastemaker acclaim from the likes of COMPLEX, I-D & MAJESTIC CASUAL, radio support from BBC Radio 1, 1Xtra & Radio 6, plus a loyal fanbase the world over that has seen them rack up an impressive 5.8 million streams across platforms all speak to the gravitas they command while yet to reach the peak of their powers.
Jeremy Roske combines unparalleled influences and a tidal wave of kindness on his new single, “A Little Love,” out August 28th, 2020. For Jeremy Roske, music is a healing art form that can transform and inspire the masses. Throughout his 25-year career, he’s brought his message-driven, expressive music to hundreds of thousands across the world. His desire when it comes to songwriting is to use all his creative energy to support personal and planetary healing — which he does on his new single, “A Little Love.” After years of musical transitions, from Hip Hip and reggae to inspirations from his years studying Carnatic music in India, he’s created an eclectic reflection of a life spent trying to put the power of healing into melody.
On “A Little Love,” Roske channels heartfelt messages from the likes of the Dalai Lama and Mother Theresa, which encourage the masses to work together through the suffering of humanity. His compassion and empathy seep into every reflective chorus and hypnotic melody. At the same time, his worldly experiences shine through with the infusions of dynamic use of the West African instrument, the Kora, percussions and choral elements. As he sings, “we’re rising like the moon and sun, we’re shining from the inside, a new day has begun… “ he captures the essence of embodying positivity in your everyday and using it to better the human experience.
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alt-pop darling Kat Saul is sharing the official music video for her new single “Monsters.” In keeping with the poignant messaging of the song, the mixed-media music video acts as a visualization of a panic attack. By overlaying the video with animation and green screen footage, the video highlights how hard it can be to decipher fact from fiction when anxiety takes over.
Explaining the various elements of the video, Kat writes, “I start on a galaxy background looking like I’m in a fake world. There is animation making it seem like I’m in a cartoon. However, as the song progresses, the green screen starts to flicker in and out until I finally walk away from the background and shows that it was a green screen or ‘just in my head’ all along. As I dance around the studio the animations still follow me. It leaves me wondering which world is real — which monsters will stick with me, and which will pass? I just want to escape and move past it all, but all I can do is walk around the studio in a circle, almost as if I’m cycling through this pattern in life. Using color psychology, I wear orange when I’m manic, mauve when I’m depressive, and pink when I’m reflective. As the video comes to a close, viewers see one of the monsters on my shoulder. He waves to the viewers as the song fades out. This shows coming to terms with your mental health and knowing that to some extent, the only way to fight your monsters is to become friends with them. All you can do is dance it out.”
Nashville-born, Los Angeles-based Kat Saul creates the kind of music that makes you want to dance, headbang and cry — sometimes all at once. The 22-year-old pop singer-songwriter has always thrived in her own paradox. She was a high school cheerleader who played guitar in a rock band; she listened to Top 40 radio hits and early aughts rock records; she blasted Katy Perry records in her babysitter’s car and attended pop-punk concerts at her local skate park.
Kat hopped on the scene last year with the release of her debut EP, …From Unit 408. The five-track EP was a delightful introduction to Kat’s unique brand of unapologetic, left-of-center pop, and quickly amassed praise from tastemakers like We Found New Music, Atwood Magazine, and EUPHORIA. Her quickly rising star as both a songwriter and artist led to collaborations with industry heavyweights like John Rausch (Taylor Swift, P!nk) & Evren Göknar (The Killers, Snoop Dogg & John Lennon), and Prince Fox (Hailee Steinfeld, Quinn XCII) and gigs opening for RKCB and Great Good Fine OK.
After receiving critical acclaim from her latest single “I’ll Break My Heart Again, ”Mimi Webb releases a beautiful stripped down performance of the track baring her vocals with just a piano accompaniment. About the single and video, Mimi commented, “Writing this song came from a really vulnerable place of admitting the truth of where your heart belongs. You know it’s not right or good for you, but you can no longer convince yourself to stay away from the person you’re still in love with—even though you have something good going with another. It took me a long time to face it, but this song really helped me through that process.”
WATCH the Official Music Video HERE
LISTEN HERE via Epic Records.
The song arrives on the heels of her buzzing anthem “Before I Go.” The track caught fire on Tik Tok when platform superstar Charli D’Amelio utilized it in a video on her page followed by over 74.9 million fans. On Tik Tok alone, it attracted 15 million-plus views, 5.7 million “likes,” 69.8K comments, and 13k shares. Simultaneously, “Before I Go” amassed over 3.3 million Spotify streams and 494K YouTube views on the music video. Inciting tastemaker applause, Wonderland praised, “Webb’s distinctive husky vocals and gut-wrenching lyricism.” Meanwhile, Consequence of Sound raves that, “Mimi Webb has an unassuming sense of style and a voice that hits like a belt of brandy.”
Lyrical eloquence, graceful spirit, and a seismic vocal range position Mimi Webb for a major moment in 2020 as she releases her debut EP later this year.
Lebanese-Canadian streaming sensation Mougleta today drops her introspective new banger “Lonely Girl” alongside “Rocket Ride”, a massive collaboration with powerhouse K-pop act OH MY GIRL&German DJ Keanu Silva. Blending rap vocals and sombre guitar sounds across a hard-hitting trap beat, “Lonely Girl” deals with the way our current society distorts the lines of reality and fiction. The track aims to continue Mougleta’s streak of carefully produced gems which have racked up well over 20M+ streams and almost 400K monthly listeners on Spotify, while her rising house hit “Dancing in the Dirt”.
Born and raised in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles, Tyson Kelly creates music which explores an amalgam of genres and styles from psych rock to tripped-out pop. As a New York Film Academy graduate, Kelly’s artistic flair runs deep throughout his music and visuals. His fascination for music began at a young age, where his love for artists such as The Beatles, Chopin and the Talking Heads inspired him to learn both classical piano and guitar. Prior to his solo project, Kelly performed in King Washington – a three-piece rock band who through their dynamic live performances and extensive touring across the States built an impressive and dedicated fanbase. Despite the band’s success, Kelly felt compelled to explore a different avenue, with no confinement to where his creativity could lead. Now, currently based in London, Kelly has refined his art as a musician and composer, with his current sound dancing delicately between past and present.
His latest EP, Plastic Rock Star features four tracks all written under the ethos of creating something uplifting, radiating with good vibes only. Known for his genre-blending music, the EP takes a direction towards modern pop, bursting with 80’s soundscapes and bold percussion. Produced by Neil Candolora, Plastic Rock Star takes you on a kaleidoscopic trip across generations, right up to present day.
The energetic “Am I Ever Gonna See You Again” is a fictional story about the situations many travelling musicians find themselves in. Kelly confides, “This track is about going out in the world and meeting someone you really connect with, spending time together and then having to leave for the next city and wondering if you’ll ever reconnect. In this case the song is written from the fan’s point of view.” Reminiscent of Haim, the upbeat, feel-good sound is a juxtaposition to the ponderous lyrics.
The funk-fulled “Get Me Higher” showcases 80’s synths, jangly guitars and infectious lyrics, creating the ultimate move-inducing pop banger. Despite the track’s subjective lyrics, the song actually originates from the songwriters crusade with airline loyalty programmes and how after years of flying, Kelly finally managed to obtain the coveted and highest status of ‘Executive Platinum’. Kelly recalls, “When I first started flying a lot for gigs roughly 10 years ago I remember how much I loathed going to the airport all the time. The parking and shlepping of bags and guitars and waiting around and then I discovered the sweet nectars of American Airlines’ loyalty program and the lounge access and the upgrades and it changed my view of flying forever.”
“I Wasn’t Saying That” details his battle with his own self-consciousness. Featuring a looming, ominous bassline, minimalist arrangements and Macy Gray-esque falsetto vocals, the track comes to life with a wailing guitar solo. Kelly explains, “I wanted to recreate a similar solo to the one from the Pixies “Where Is My Mind”, which splits off into harmony at the end. I’ve always loved Joey Santiago’s subtle but powerful arrangements to all of their tunes.”
“And I See Your Face” emanates David Bowie’s “China Girl”. Kelly’s vocals are laden with emotion and charisma, dripping with echoing, ethereal harmonies, all layered atop a bass-driven melody. As the son of renowned songwriter Tom Kelly, known for penning numerous number one hits such as Madonna’s ‘“Like A Virgin”, Cyndi Lauper’s “True Colors”, Whitney Houston’s “So Emotional” and The Pretenders’ “I’ll Stand By You”, Kelly is no stranger to the world of hit making. In addition to his solo project, Kelly has spent the past ten years touring the world and making a living as a highly sought after John Lennon impersonator, performing in such shows as Broadway’s “Let It Be” and currently the UK’s biggest touring Beatles group, The Bootleg Beatles.
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Alt-pop act Kyd the Band (aka Devin Guisande) is back with jaunty new single “Corridors” – a first taste of his upcoming EP ‘Season 3: The Realization‘ announced today and releasing via Sony Music.
“Corridors” was co-written with Adam Friedman (Allen Stone, Mike Posner) and Kevin Griffin (The Night Game, Moon Taxi) and produced entirely over Zoom in true 2020 fashion. Throughout the track Guisande tries to break free of his mental prison to finally overcome past relationships. Instead of remaining trapped in old memories and endless brain loops, the song encourages to keep your head up and positively push forward against the odds. The new single is just another example of Kyd the Band’s unabashed honesty in his lyrics and broad range across his collection. With each season, Devin reveals more of himself as he finds the confidence to delve deep into his tumultuous past from a socially isolated childhood, to leaving his home and family; overcoming a drug overdose to then finally finding solace in music and healthy relationships.
Speaking about the new track, Guisande says, “I’m excited because sonically it’s the product of where I’ve been up until now merged with my first two EPs. Lyrically, it’s about realizing there are spaces in my mind I’ve created for people who have hurt me, specifically from my upbringing and formative years. It’s the starting point for the message of identity and self-acceptance, the intro to Season 3: The Realization.”
Kyd the Band’s music is ultimately an ideal soundtrack to finding your place in an often-chaotic world. The artist-to-watch hopes that his music creates an intimate connection with his audience. “With everything I write, I try to write directly from my life and what’s in my heart,” says Guisande. “I’d love for my music to reach all the kids like me, who are maybe questioning what they were raised to believe or feel like they haven’t found where they belong just yet. I hope those kinds of people hear what I have to say, and see a bit of their own story in my songs.”
The Nashville-based singer-songwriter didn’t fail to impress with his spellbinding Season 2: Character Development EP (released on May 29, 2020 via Sony Music). The 6-track collection included “Heartbreak Anthem” – his collaboration with gnash which landed on over 15 New Music Friday playlists including Spotify’s New Music Friday (US). Season 2: Character Development EP followed on from Kyd the Band’s debut EP Season 1: The Intro. At the top of the year, Kyd the Band supported NF as well as Lennon Stella on their huge international tours in addition to his own solo sold out hometown show. With three years on the scene, he’s also gained support from MTV’s TRL / Fresh Out host Kevan Kenney and press coverage from American Songwriter, Clash, Complex, Culture Collide, Earmilk, Flaunt, Forbes, House Of Solo, Noctis Magazine, Notion, Ones To Watch, and more. A deft songwriter, Devin has penned tracks for artists as eclectic as hip-hop legends Bone Thugs-N-Harmony and German DJ Robin Schulz as well as gnash, NF, and ROZES. Channeling his experiences and lessons learned into his work, Kyd the Band’s music radiates a hard-won positivity that inspires anyone to live more boldly.
Born into a Filipino/Spanish family closely involved with the Pentecostal Church, Guisande got his start playing drums at the age of ten and later took up piano and guitar. At age 16 he co-founded a band with his guitar-playing brother Kyle and began writing songs of his own, relying almost entirely on instinct rather than mining influence from other artists (“I didn’t even know who Kanye West was till I was 18,” notes Guisande, who was forbidden to watch movies or listen to secular music). Over the next few years, Guisande experienced a life-changing transformation as he left the church he was raised in and moved away from home. “I’d thought I was going to be a preacher when I got older, but I started questioning everything and just completely changed the whole trajectory of my life,” he says.
With a batch of self-recorded songs under his belt, Guisande headed to Los Angeles at age 19 and fully devoted himself to pushing forward with his music career. But while his non-stop hustle scored him meetings with a number of industry heavyweights, he felt increasingly disillusioned by the L.A. scene and decamped to Nashville in 2013. When his brother followed him to Tennessee a year later, the two resumed the musical partnership they’d formed as teenagers. Too broke to afford beds, the siblings shared an apartment and slept on the floor, working full-time jobs all day and spending every night writing songs. Against the odds, the multi-instrumentalist, producer, and songwriter clocked in +40 hours a week while working on music each hour he had left to spare.
Propelled by the success of his previous single “Hold On”, emerging British singer Lewis Knaggs has shared his new single “I’ll Survive” – the latest to come from his forthcoming debut album. The latest cut from Lewis Knaggs is a deeply moving, guitar driven effort that is wistful in its execution. With an indie-ballad temperament that has come to be associated with the London-based artist, “I’ll Survive” brings imaginative song writing with a vocal performance and a true display of vulnerability that is both resonant yet endearing.
Lewis’ eye for filmmaking shines through once again with the new visuals; a solemn affair that explores the whirlwind of emotions associated with the loss of a loved one, beautifully interwoven with the story of the track. Speaking on his latest release, Lewis shared: “This is a song about surviving through the bad things that can happen in life. The death of a loved ones, the end of a relationship, either a friend or a lover, or even a pandemic… It is in the hands of whoever is listening, whatever it might be for them whilst interpreting the lyrics. I originally wrote this song around the time of my grandmother’s passing. That was almost exactly a year ago. Pretty much a year to the day that I lost a best friend, just a few weeks ago, in a very tragic and sudden way. This song has taken an even more prevalent position in my mind and heart as a result.”
Making his name over the years as a cinematographer, the in-demand creative has helped birth an array of stunning visuals for a variety of household acts from Tom Walker, Gang of Youths, Post Malone and The XX to iconic brands like Ray-Ban and Gibson. Lewis now steps into the forefront with his own story to tell, with compelling narratives and a voice that is destined to shine
Leading on from the brilliance of “Hold On”, “I’ll Survive” is setting the tone for a stellar album to come from a truly exciting artist yet to reach the peak of his powers – expect more from this burgeoning British talent.
Genre-defying singer, songwriter, and producer Rence releases his latest single “Strawberry Blonde” today. Get the song HERE via Epic Records.
“Strawberry Blonde” follows the release of previous singles “Sometimes Things Just Fall Apart” and “Tears In December,” which have already racked up close to 2 million combined streams and received praise from the likes of tmrw Magazine, EARMILK, Euphoria and Lyrical Lemonade who called “Tears In December” “a song you NEED to listen to before the day is over.”
About the track, Rence commented, “Taken at face value the lyrics of ‘Strawberry Blonde’ tell a story about someone worried about everything – their past, the future, everything – their unsureness is taking a toll on the relationship, and signals aren’t clear. To me, it’s the secondary meaning that really rings true. As I sat with the song for a while, I realized that I was talking about myself thinking things too much. I assumed we’re free of blame and worry, when really we’re the ones freaking out.”
Rence continues to consistently deliver and affirm his status as one of the most exciting new artists to watch of 2020. His solo releases continue to shine with “hate u btw” clocking over 1 million streams as “Type 2” is about to cross the 2 million mark. Notably, Wonderland praised Rence in their feature of “Type 2” calling him, “one artist to keep an eye on very closely in 2020.”
Capitalizing on the momentum sparked by the release of his Fall 2019 EP, Rence has received much acclaim as Pigeons & Planes named him among “Best New Artists”. Meanwhile, his breakout single “Expensive” [feat. Noah Cyrus] recently surpassed 8.2 million global streams. Having wrapped a North American tour with Christian French this Winter, Rence has gone on to received looks and acclaim from the likes of Nylon, i-D, The FADER, Billboard, Paper and more.
Shapeshifting and genrebending LA-based artist NVDES (aka Josh Ocean) returns with his video for new single “Green” – a piano-laced track featuring the tremendously moving vocals of Nilo, a 10-year-old Dutch boy who originally wrote the poem and performed the freestyle on global warming and climate change. The video (directed by Superorganism’s Robert Strange) is a vibrant call to action for not only our generation but generations to come. The lyrics, while straightforward in its delivery, work in tandem with the video to offer up the sentiment that you can be bold in this critical fight at any age. “Green” additionally draws attention to the larger picture around the issue, our relationship with the world, and our perception of language and action. Josh explains, “I was totally blown away by it – it’s this young kid talking about his connection to the color green and how much he loves the planet, and so I asked Nilo if he’d let me produce it. I’m so excited to share it on the album, because how often do we get to hear kids expressing themselves through music like that?”
“Green” is not just any ordinary single release for NVDES, but a core value in his everyday life. Taking the cause and mission to heart, Josh has made a number of changes to his lifestyle for the betterment of the environment. Avoiding plastic and excess waste is his number one focus and effort. He elaborates, “As a surfer, I am consistently heartbroken by the amount of plastic waste that I see in the ocean and on the beach. Eliminating plastic use is the reason why my charitable contributions from ‘GREEN’ and my NVDITY Worldwide are going to address the issue of plastic pollution in the ocean and proceeds will be donated to Oceana.” He adds, “I’d rather have to carry the weight of my goods than use a plastic bag… I also have made a commitment to avoiding fast fashion at all costs. I am basically wearing what I have and if I need something new I try to source the most eco friendly option. Recycling and sustaining is a must. Even my instruments are always pre-owned and my plan is to be running my studio on 100% solar by the end of the year.” Thanks to stay-at-home orders in LA, Josh has been able to tap into his love for fresh gardening as well.
You may not recognize NVDES at first but you and millions of others have certainly had his music buzzing in your ears – whether it was “Purusha” in the official Apple iPhone SE launch this year, “Brazooka” in the official Apple iPhone 11 advertisement the year prior, “Rock & Roll” on the Need for Speed™ Heat soundtrack, or his smash hit collabs like “Everybody Wants To Be Loved” with Yoke Lore and “Running” with Oliver Tree. The title track off his newly announced NVDITY Worldwide album (due out September 25th via VIBE NATION) is currently featured in a massive global ad campaign for Apple Music / Apple Music Radio featuring Billie Eilish, Orville Peck, Megan Thee Stallion, Anderson .Paak, and more.
Bulgarian born, England raised, and now Canadian based, NIIVA has found her home with music. The singer/songwriter serves up organic modern-pop hymns wrapped up in a digital bow. Spinning relatable stories with a cool and conversational flow, she delivers a sort of lyrical liquid courage in a defiant yet approachable voice. There’s no mistaking NIIVA’s in the driver’s seat, so sit back and see the world through lilac-tinted windows.
Recorded in Los Angeles with Matt Beckley, the vocal producer behind Camila Cabello’s smash hit “Havana”, NIIVA’s newest record “Trigger”, is a glass of cognac – slow-burning rhythm, smooth vocals, and inebriating melodies – inviting, exciting, and full of anticipation. She warns and welcomes the listener into the eye of the storm, while making us feel safe and comforted in the palm of her hand.
(Credit: Bobby Banks)
Brooklyn-based artist Chloe Lilac has released her highly-anticipated sophomore EP, DOUCHEBAG, out now via RCA Records. Listen to the EP in full now here. Watch the self-directed / self-shot official video for new single and EP title track, “DOUCHEBAG,” here.
A project whose release marks the culmination of a period of unprecedented growth for the rising artist, DOUCHEBAG embodies a hard look inward — a fearless, anthemic collection of tracks intended to inspire raw strength from within. Chloe describes, “As a young woman I’m so conditioned to just take what men give me and thank them for it. These songs on my EP are about empowering myself and my listeners to give them strength to manifest confidence. It’s for myself and for them. It’s both.”
Alongside the EP comes brand new single and title track, “DOUCHEBAG,” a kiss-off pop-punk ode to a worthless ex, of which Chloe adds, “It’s really about me just sticking it to that motherfucker.” The song’s official video debuted today alongside an exclusive interview with NYLON here.
Amidst the lingering uncertainty that has shadowed much of 2020, Chloe Lilac has turned obstacle into opportunity, tapping into her DIY roots to self-direct and self-shoot two official videos in her Brooklyn home while in quarantine and connecting consistently with her fans on IG Live. Chloe has also asserted herself a bold activist for social causes. From taking a stand for LGBTQ rights during Pride Month (see partnerships with Pride.com and The Trevor Project) to joining the fight for racial justice (samples here & here), Chloe has become a beacon of strength and a model for young women and artists as they navigate the struggle of a global pandemic and a precarious future.
Today’s EP release follows a string of standout singles that have solidified Chloe’s place as a veritable force among rising alt/pop artists. She kicked off 2020 with “HERE’S YOUR SONG,” which saw critical love from outlets such as The FADER and UPROXX, who noted the track “shows another side of Lilac — one that’s more introspective.” “OBVIOUS” followed, which was praised by MTV News for its “explosive confidence” and sparked Refinery29 to proclaim, “Lilac is so talented that I can barely stand it.” Punk-inspired “MODERATION” touched on Chloe’s struggle with mental health, a track which PAPER called “instantly anthemic.”
Last fall, singles “High School” and “Special” both were given Spotify ‘New Music Friday’ placement and saw critical love from outlets such as Billboard, who called “High School” “an undeniably exuberant affair.”
Photo Credit: Jenn Curtis
Nashville singer-songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist Mokita is releasing his new single/video, “Down.” Unrelentingly honest and deeply personal, Mokita approaches songwriting as a confessional form of expression, often tackling the sincerest of subjects with thoughtful clarity. His new single “Down,” is a love letter to anyone who is struggling right now. Beginning with a somber piano introduction, “Down” surges into a meditative, downtempo pop number that’s guided by poignant yet hopeful lyricism.
“I’ve had some really rough seasons in my life where my depression was just so bad and I didn’t feel like I was ever going climb out of it, but through those times I’ve had some close friends who have walked with me through those seasons; who have encouraged me and just been present,” Mokita writes. “I think the theme of this song was really just a letter to those friends who are going through those things, and to anyone who is having a hard time. Everybody needs a friend to walk with them through the hard seasons and sometimes just being present, being available to listen, and being faithful, is the best way to love someone through those times.”
Raised in a small town in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, and, later, western North Carolina, Mokita — born John-Luke Carter — took to music at a young age, beginning 13 years of classical piano lessons at age six, before picking up the guitar and trying his hand at songwriting as a teen. Relocating to Nashville after college, John-Luke took on the Mokita moniker, a name adopted from Kivila, a language native to Papua New Guinea. The word Mokita roughly translates to “the truth we all know but don’t talk about,” and it’s that sentiment that has always informed Carter’s approach to songwriting, exploring themes like depression, anxiety, the joy and stress and uncertainty of budding and fading relationships, and other personal themes, all in ways we all too often feel but rarely so truthfully articulate.
Mokita’s knack for songwriting and producing has led to collaborations with noteworthy artists like Ella Vos, R3HAB, Lost Frequencies, and Gavin Haley, as well as remixes for Maggie Rogers, Betty Who, and Daya. In recent years, Mokita has also stepped out from behind the scenes, making a name for himself as an artist in his own right. His debut EP, 4201, was released in 2019 and he has continued to roll out a string of standout singles over the course of year. With over 200M+ combined streams and praise from the likes of Billboard, Wonderland Magazine, and Ones To Watch, Mokita is certainly an act to keep an eye on.
Lauren Presley releases her latest captivating single “A Little Longer” featuring Sam Will. The pop/hip-hop fusion release contains every element to get listeners grooving and uplifted. “A Little Longer” takes the listener on a musical journey with a nostalgic hip-hop style combined with a modern pop sound. The vocals and soothing instrumentation seamlessly work together for a must-listen record. “A Little Longer” contains emotion-drenched lyricism that will hook the listener, due to the relatability and its captivating story-telling.
The down-tempo beat with the melodic elements gives the vocal an intimate, melancholic feeling. Sam Will’s section brings the track full circle with his atmospheric style. Moreover, the release radiates a perfect balance of melancholy with euphoria. With powerful lyricism, Lauren Presley maintains a fully charged arsenal of high-quality music that supports the fact that she sets to make a substantial impact on the music industry, as well as the charts. This release is a testament to Lauren’s versatility as a musician and her innate talent. “A Little Longer” offers soothing instrumentation with a strong message that will have listeners wanting more.
Marcelo Deiss is a Brazilian born, London based artist whose music dances between indie, blues, folk and rock. His music details themes about social alienation and human condition in subjects like greed, hypocrisy, absurdity and despair. The South American artist feeds off irony, satire and a dose of dark humor to make audiences see the obvious that goes unnoticed in everyday life. Highlighting situations and news that we see but we don’t look at and news we hear but we don’t listen to, Marcelo brings light to ordinary occurrences. Everything from the overuse of technology, to economic policy and our daily customs.
Spending time in both London and Sao Paulo, the musician is able to explore new sounds as well as new topics. Influenced greatly by visual artists such as Steve Cutts and John Holcroft, Marcelo’s songs revolve around the struggling underclass, with anthems about anti-establishment, anti-capitalist and anti-war. Marcelo shares, “Cutts and Holcroft’s work embodies a powerful and scary message about humankind which we can all really relate to as human beings. Their work really helped create a clear vision of what I was trying to achieve sonically.”
Similar to his previous releases, “Horses Running” and “I Went Down”, Marcelo’s latest single “Gridlock” also focuses on themes such as greed and social alienation. With the hopes to spark conversation about subjects that need to be confronted about it, the musician shares, “I would say that it’s mainly about bringing attention to the injustice of the system we are living in. It was movements such as Brexit, Me Too movement, Trump, Black Lives Matter and other topics that deal with oppression that got me into writing about what’s currently happening in our society.” Inspired by the likes of Wilco, Jimi Hendrix, Ben Harper and Albert King, “Gridlock” absorbs a comparable essence of gritty alt rock, showcasing resonating guitars, raspy vocals, a bluesy rhythm section and politically themed lyrics.
Through the rawness of his music and the sheer gravity of his lyrics, the Brazilian artist is creating music to stimulate emotions. Marcelo Deiss has something to say, so listen up.
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After realizing Gabe O’Brien-Szczesniak was not cut out for music school, he dropped out and made his first record. This is Low Float.
Photo Credit: Beth Taye
Kansas City based The Black Creatures (Jade Green & Xavier) today release their full-length project Wild Echoes, a multi-genre mixture of musical stylings.
The album, written entirely by Jade and Xavier, features their previously released single “Wretched (It Goes)”, which caught the attention of NPR, who promptly invited the duo to take part in their “Songs for Change” project. The album was mastered by Collin Jordan (Xiu Xiu, Kanye West, Lupe Fiasco) after being recorded in Kansas City.
The Black Creatures showcase their expert musicianship on Wild Echoes and their ability to create smooth and cohesive music regardless of the genre. From the ambient and enveloping electronic beats on “Lazarus”, to the trappy and fun “Fear & Chaos”, as well as the smooth Erykah Badu inspired “D’ummm”, The Black Creatures prove that their talents and skills know no bounds.
Wild Echoes provides a deep introspective look into themes of suicide, grief, love, and mental health, particulary within the Black community. As survivors of suicide attempts and various forms of abuse, Jade and Xavier wanted to make music that allows people to imagine things that may not exist right now. They explain “Music is very political. It permits us to draw out the blueprints for what we want to create.” With “Wretched (It Goes)”, 90.9 The Bridge wrote
“By unifying these disparate musical styles, creating interdimensional narratives and drawing from personal experiences, the duo develops a space for historically diminished identities to be reclaimed and societal expectations to be dismantled.”
The Black Creatures on Wild Echoes: “Ultimately, Wild Echoes is about relationships, internal and external. It’s a reflection of those relationships: relationships with one’s self, with one’s community, differing loved ones, love itself, one’s past, one’s future, someone else’s leadership, a crush. That’s why we called it Wild Echoes. This reflection is untamed and untethered to any guide. It’s dichotomous, and is maybe unsatisfying sometimes. It’s wild.”
The Black Creatures make a point to blur the lines of genre while maintaining a recognizable
cohesion; oftentimes blending contemporary styles of pop, hip-hop, dance, R&B, EDM and soul
with cinematic and storytelling sci-fi/fantasy elements and themes. With the complex and creative approach The Black Creatures take to their art, a diverse audience regularly flocks to their gripping and intensely enchanting performances. The Black Creatures are also gaining a presence on YouTube with their weekly “Thirsty Thursday” series and ongoing “1 Hour Song Challenge” where they scheme up new sounds in sixty minutes.
2x GRAMMY Award-winning artist Lonr. unleashes a special expanded edition of his acclaimed debut EP Land Of Nothing Real. Get the EP HERE via Epic Records.
The new version of the EP features the addition of the anticipated fan-favorite track “The End,” which Lonr. first teased during a performance at this year’s virtual Lollapalooza. Along with the new track, which can be streamed HERE, the official self-directed music video for “The End” premiered earlier today. Watch it HERE.
Released earlier this Spring, Land Of Nothing Real has established the singer, songwriter, rapper and producer as a force to be reckoned with and one of this year’s most exciting artists to watch. The EP’s lead single, “Make The Most” featuring H.E.R., has bolstered the budding star’s career even further. Not only is it currently in the Top 10 at Urban Adult Contemporary radio for the second week in a row, this week rising to #9, but he also performed the song for the first time on TV at the 2020 BET Awards to much chatter and praise. Uproxx called the performance “incredible” and dubbed him “a star in the making,” while Billboard put it best: “After his performance of the earnest yet restrained ‘Make the Most’ had viewers’ mouths agape during the 2020 BET Awards, he just might be quietly stepping into his own spotlight.” Watch the spellbinding performance HERE. To-date, the song has received near 10 million streams, while the EP has reached over 55 million streams.
This track is one for the ladies. Juwan recreates the “butterflies in the stomach” feeling that
comes from being around a loved one specifically in the early stages of relationships. As
listeners, we’re taken to a wonderful place with this song. During quarantine, Juwan wanted
to bring us back to that era when everything was great and smooth and this track reminisces
on that with the piano chords leading into the perfect nostalgic beat and gives us hope that
we will get that floating feeling again soon.
Their debut single “Got It Good” is a fun, empowering track featuring alt rock guitar riffs, funk basslines and experimental production. The epitome of NADA ROBOT’s sound, “Got It Good” features confident vocals, oozing with attitude and a strong, pulsating rhythm emitting a rousing effect. The single details not compromising on what you want and what you deserve in romantic relationships.
Then there is “December 1999” – a more serious song about the “End of the World” Y2K days. Sonically “December 1999” shimmers with ethereal, layered vocals and move-inducing melodies, creating a delightfully infectious track perfect for those summer playlists.
The two singles are set for release in summer 2020. With more music in the works NADA ROBOT brings their vibrant sound to the masses.
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VALE s a fiercely talented vocalist and songwriter from Barranquilla, Colombia. Drawn to music at an early age, VALE began performing when she was just 6 years old in her school choir. By her early teens, she had found inspiration in American pop and R&B music, and began writing songs of her own. Influenced by some of her idols, VALE started to forge her own unique voice and point of view on the genre. Now at 17, VALE has spent time writing and recording in Los Angeles and Barranquilla, assembling her debut collection of singles to be released throughout the year. Produced by Heavy Mellow (Halsey, Jaden Smith), VALE’s debut release “be somebody” premiered on eight Spotify New Music Friday playlists across the globe, including the Philippines, Indonesia, South Korea, and Thailand. Following the momentum of her second release, “heart,” VALE continues her story of young love, heartbreak, and perseverance on “one day.”
Crafting songs that are as personal as they are dynamic, Zoe Zobrist is an alt-rock singer-songwriter from Dallas, Texas. A life-long musician, Zoe has spent the better half of her career performing and touring across North America. She’s graced the stages of iconic music venues throughout the Southwest including Los Angeles’ The Viper Room and The Troubadour. In 2019, Zoe was featured in John Mellencamp’s tour documentary. Zoe has spent the past few years refining her sound and experimenting with different styles, ultimately leading to her unique blend of classically inspired alternative music. In her most recent single, “Who You Gonna Be,” Zoe not only shapes her reality, but completely redefines it. Defiant, deliberate, and deeply personal, Zoe’s latest work is the musical embodiment of her very existence and personal journey to self-discovery.
Nissim Black has been a gangsta rapper, a gang member, and a faith seeker. But it is his current incarnation that is here to stay: an African American Hasidic Jew who brings sharp beats and hooked-filled rhymes to the masses. With “Rerun,” his latest single, and other new tracks, Black has reset his sound to better reflect his past and his present. “‘Rerun’ is a song highlighting the struggle of constantly going through issues and now finally having the wherewithal to shake them off. When one feels stress sometimes the shoulders get heavy and it starts to weigh a person down,” Black says. “‘Rerun’, is an anthem, arousing people to ‘dust off’ the things that prevent one from advancing. It’s a stress relieving banger!” After a long discovery process, both musically and personally, Black has finally found his true identity. “All of those journeys—being in a gang, being on the football team was a part of me trying to say, ‘I belong to something greater than myself, I know where, but I belong somewhere,’” he says. “It’s almost like trying to find that home.”