Continuing to turn heads with critical praise and millions of streams, acclaimed Los Angeles singer, songwriter, and artist India Shawn unveils a new single and music video entitled “Don’t Play With My Heart” today. Get it HERE via Epic Records. Watch the music video HERE.
The track rides a simmering beat as her powerful delivery takes the spotlight. She flexes her impressive vocal range, reaching heavenly heights on the climactic chorus. In the accompanying visual directed by David Camerena, she plays an old vinyl and falls into a shimmering disco soul dream. Throughout the clip, she delivers a show-stopping performance and rocks various Studio 54-ready high fashion looks, nodding to the spirit and style of the seventies’ foremost icons with her own attitude.
Regarding the visual, India said, “”The ‘Don’t Play With My Heart’ video pays homage to the original and iconic queens of soul, like Donna Summer and Diana Ross. My intention is to serve a fresh and nostalgic take on their legacies. The visual directed by David Camerena expresses my interpretation of the unique, feminine style and their ultimate creative power.”
North Carolinan post-punk group Tongues Of Fire today share their single “Numb” in advance of the release of the Burn My Body Clean EP via Florida’s Godless America Records on August 27th.
The group’s songwriter, singer and guitarist, Lowell Hobbs, endured the loss of his mother after a gruelling cancer battle during the recording of Everyone Hates Us (2019), but it is now, on Burn My Body Clean, where he has had the opportunity to truly process and explore the experience. These songs represent five stages of the grieving process; each written at a different time and each contributing to the furious catharsis that is borne out in the arrangements. While not clearly delineated into denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance, each of the five tracks tackle distinct periods in their own ways. From the self-imposed depressed isolation of “Room”, through the visceral anger of “Clean”, to the more acceptant “inst”, which features a sample of the voice of Lowell’s mother.
Chris Pidsley is a singer/songwriter from Gloucestershire, UK. Now based in London, Pidsley crafts infectious, indie-pop sounds with a healthy dose of angsty, sad boy vibes. With an overall theme of sun, summer and nostalgia, his music is raw and relatable, making the perfect laid-back soundtrack to the everyday lives of twenty-somethings.
His new five-track EP Daisies, touches on tales and feelings from Pidsley’s life. Carrying a warmth and honesty that flows through a golden pool of soothing production, the release glows with character and emotion. Curated from the depths of his bedroom, the DIY vibe brings an essence of authenticity, giving us a peek into the world of the artist.
Opening track “Tie Dye T-Shirt” introduces itself as a floral, hazy tune before kicking into an energetic blast. Beginning with a lullaby energy of woozy, muffled guitar and a funky lead bassline, it quickly swings into a comfortable, soothing sway of velvety goodness. Inspired by the notorious lockdown activities of obsessively tie-dying clothes, Pidsley took the opportunity to honour these moments in a vibrant, colourful single. Inspired by The 1975 and Rex Orange County and their knack for creating tongue-in-cheek music with playful, jazz-infused guitars, “Tie Dye T-Shirt” was born.
Then there is “Listen To Your Mum” – a relatable track about how your Mum always seems to have an opinion about your love life. Reminiscent of Cavetown, the song blends acoustic and DIY synthesised beats to create a lighthearted ode to all mothers. Title-track “Daisies” narrates a summer love. The musician shares, “The kind that you wish would never end and always brings you nostalgia whenever the sun shines.” The fast-paced “Skinny” speaks about body positivity and loving yourself no matter what anyone else says. Through driving beats and heavy electric guitar, this is a true indie-pop bop.
“Rosie” brings the EP to a close, with a personal, vulnerable and direct lyrical message to a girl (ironically not named Rosie). Recorded in one take, with just Pidsley, his guitar and a microphone, this highly intimate, romantic and hypnotic single in its skeletal form, bares the bones of the songwriter’s soul. Pidsley reveals, “I wanted to maintain that sense of stark vulnerability and authenticity. Similar to “She Lays Down,” the closer of the second The 1975 album”. This track may conjure a tear or a smile, but ultimately shows Pidsley in a raw state revealing his unmistakable talent.
“Loud Is Beautiful” is the new single from HELLO COSMOS.
LISTEN HERE: https://lnk.to/loudisbeautiful
Featuring typically outspoken wordplay from Ben Robinson, the Hello Cosmos head-honcho is joined by guest vocalists Telle & Elara on this latest effort.
A swirl of esoteric synths, clipped beats and sampled brass inflections, “Loud Is Beautiful” the latest cut to emerge from a brand new mixtape project: ‘Golden Dirt’; a new collaboration with San Francisco-based producer The Olchemist.
“Having this opportunity to work with Hello Cosmos and being featured on their ‘Lockdown’ project has been an amazing experience. They’re insanely talented and they’re right up my alley in terms of style. I’ve always wanted to collab with a rock band. I’m beyond grateful to share this wonderful journey with them. LET’S GET LOUD CHAMPS!! You’re going to love this one!”
Vicu is a Maryland based electro/pop artist who has made a name for himself with a loud sonic boom. As a self-taught producer, audio engineer and songwriter, Vicu’s music features rhythmic pop sounds and fresh, modern-edge songwriting. Originally from Romania, Vicu was adopted at a young age and brought up in a family of both musicians and lovers of music. Constantly surrounded by a diversity of sounds, he knew at just 14 years old that he wanted to pursue a career in music. Known for his smooth, flawless vocals, stunning, sleek production and honest songwriting about mess ups, makeups and everything in between, Vicu draws in the hopeless romantic inside of us all. His passion and fervor captivates his listeners, keeping you in his grasp.
His latest single “Focused On You” beams with romantic guitar loops rippling over a rhythmic bass tracing the beat of R&B high hats. The song has a dreamy, floating soundscape that is polished by a tight beat and a slightly muffled, rocking grit, along with a background of dancing electric solos. The track is both freeing and intimate, radiating summer energy, sunset vibes and amorous feelings. The single bodes a message from Vicu to ensure his lover knows they’re his top priority.
Vicu explains that the single is his interpretation of what summer love feels like, sharing, “I want the listener to be able to roll the top down and take their girlfriend or boyfriend on the adventure of a lifetime.” Taking influence from the likes of Justin Bieber, Bazzi, Bruno Mars and Drake, Vicu hopes to follow a similar path of merging both the R&B and pop worlds.
Explaining how music for him is a form of therapy, Vicu wants to inspire others to pursue what they love and discover what truly brings them happiness. Having garnered over half a million streams for his music thus far, Vicu is quickly becoming an artist on the rise. “Focused On You” is currently available worldwide.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HOWwrppyVDM
In nature, certain things happen for a reason and there’s really nothing anybody can do about that. This song encompasses that ideology of ‘what’s meant to happen will happen.’
Hear “Natural” on your preferred platform.
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/distantmatter/natural
I used the same vocals from the first demo of “Natural” through to the final master.
There is so much beauty in imperfection and this song embraces those organic tendencies of life.
This song is emotional and nostalgic. I hope that it can accompany you as you follow your intuition and while you spend time in the natural world.
Thank you for listening,
Distant Matter
A!MS officially announces the forthcoming release of his first studio album ‘OFFSHORE’ as he joins together with Akelle from platinum selling, chart-topping super group WSTRN, and frequent collaborator AV Allure for single ‘iLIKE’.
STREAM/DOWNLOAD: A!MS – iLIKE FT AV ALLURE & AKELLE
Taking to social media, the rap star confirmed the new single is taken from his debut project, which will be with us at the end of Summer. Having had huge success releasing singles throughout his career, that have awarded him over 20 million streams, 50 million YouTube views, platinum selling records and numerous awards, the album is set to be the culmination of his life’s work and experience, something that has substance, graft and endless topical content to explore.
PRE-ORDER: A!MS DEBUT ALBUM ‘OFFSHORE’
Hailing from the Boston area, Paul Wright and Tim Harrington met each other in their hometown of Sturbridge through Tim’s older brother. The friendship blossomed in high school when they both took up the guitar and began working on music together. It didn’t take long for them to see the potential hidden in these casual jam sessions. As Paul recalls, “Tim transformed from kid brother to musical collaborator over the course of a summer.”
Combining Paul’s lifetime of classical training, Harrington’s spontaneous artistic instincts, and the prismatic union of their unique voices, Tall Heights’ sonic imprint is in a category all its own.
Tall Heights’ recordings have amassed over 275 million streams and they’ve toured alongside groups like Judah & the Lion, Colony House, The Paper Kites, and Magic Giant.
Born and raised in South-Central Trinidad, John Orpheus is a multi-cultural musical artist and published author. For the past year and a half, he had been writing his memoir called SAGA BOY which was published by Penguin Random House Canada on January 19, 2021 and will be launched by Milkweed Editions in the US on September 14, 2021. With the book done, John decided to return to music and release a companion album entitled SAGA KING. Both the book and the album are based on similar themes: searching for home, family, love and a fly coat to wear when you get there! SAGA BOY is the journey of the boy. SAGA KING is the celebration of the man.
John Orpheus’ musical journey has taken him from the Caribbean bush to festivals across Canada and the US to opening for Liam Gallagher on a UK tour as the frontman for a Happy Mondays offshoot band. He combines hip-hop swagger, Afrobeat energy and dancehall charisma to create a sound built on big catchy hooks. John is known for his rabble-rousing live shows filled with audience participation, chanting and impromptu dance-offs that feel more like Caribana road parties than concerts. In September 2019, he released his debut album WEY YA CALL DAT TING, the culmination of a three year, four mixtape project that he used to develop and hone his unique sound. Produced and co-written by Mike Schlosser, the album and the standalone single ELECTRIC released in 2020 fulfilled his early promise with a noticeably more pop and upbeat vibe. “The world is a soulful, sound-splash, dance party. That’s the sound I want to create.”
ad•era is a Canadian alternative/indie trio with a Chilean heart. Tiffany Calderbank and Tomás Valenzuela met at community college in Vancouver, BC in 2016. The two shared a passion for rhythmic music with contrast and depth. Artists like St. Vincent, Glass Animals, and Little Dragon inspired them early on to develop a sound of their own where pretty and distorted could walk hand in hand. With Valenzuela primarily focusing on production/mixing and Calderbank on songwriting/production, the duo let their music evolve and grow along with them. In 2020 drummer Ian Cardona, who coincidentally shares some of Valenzuela’s Chilean roots, joined the group and became the third piece to the puzzle. Now with a fresh new sound, the three are a polite yet daring force to be reckoned with.
Two years after his last full-length EP, Crankdat is back with his debut Monstercat EP ‘Sad Robot’. Spanning five original tracks including the previously released “Better Without You” and “The Feeling (feat. Ace Aura)”, ‘Sad Robot’ fully encapsulates Crankdat’s range and evolution as a producer. Right off the bat, the colourful synth stabs in “Wish You Were Here” add an unexpected melodic layer to his signature bass-heavy drops. Taking listeners on a nostalgic musical journey, the titular track, “What It Feels Like (feat. KC)” pays homage to Crankdat’s classic melodic sound through its infectious vocals, rich bassline, and powerful chord stacks.
Crankdat shares, “‘Sad Robot’ EP is my first full-length EP since my ‘Gearworld Vol. 1’ EP in 2019. This EP showcases my melodic style in a manner reminiscent of the music I made when I first started my project back in 2015. I’m very happy to have had some awesome collaborators help me with it – including JT Roach, Ace Aura, and KC!”
Crankdat has performed all over the world, at EDC Las Vegas, Wobbleland, Sunset Music Festival, and recently, at Lifted Nightclub in Austin, Texas. His remixes and originals have seen widespread support from major artists like Marshmello, DJ Snake, The Chainsmokers, and more. As live shows continue to make their comeback, fans can look forward to hearing ‘Sad Robot’ live at Stereo Live in Dallas, Celine Orlando, and more to come.
Following his popular debut single, “Sunshine Baby”, Nashville’s Luke Lasso is excited to announce his new track – “I-65”. Lasso is new to the music scene and thrilled to continue putting out new music after spending most of 2020 cultivating his sound and making new music. “I-65” was inspired by the many miles Lasso has spent driving on the major highway that runs through Nashville, connecting the Gulf of Mexico to the Great Lakes. Lasso’s lyrics paint a picture of riding confidently, committed to dreaming big and starting a new journey. The song comes at a perfect time, when many of us are coming out of the pandemic to begin a next chapter and find our inner confidence – the track serves as the hype man copilot we all need to reenter the world. “I wanted this song to feel like you’re flying down the interstate, windows down during the golden hour,” said Lasso. “Everything has an orange glow, the air is thin, your arm is hanging out of the window, your hand is making waves in the wind. You’re cruising with the volume all the way up on the car stereo and you feel at peace, letting the music completely take over.”
(photo credit: Bernardo Noguiera)
Introducing Jeremy Shada—the bi-coastal Emmy and MTV Award winning actor and musician most notable for his work as Reggie Peters in Netflix’s Julie and the Phantoms, the voice of Finn the Human in Cartoon Network’s Adventure Time, and previously the bassist of pop-punk act Make Out Monday, just to name a few. On his new independent endeavor, the 24-year-old talent explores an array of soundscapes from the greatest eras of popular music by-way-of autobiographical vignettes. Tapping Zack Odom and Kenneth Mount as his right-hand collaborators, Shada now shares his new single “Dancing With Strangers”—an anti-hookup culture bop filled with Phil Collins-esque ‘80s drum beats and an electrifying guitar solo that’ll inspire you to find love again.
On “Dancing With Strangers,” Jeremy Shada looks deep into his psyche as he examines the societal pressures around dating in your 20s. He explains, “The song is really about a personal low point of being caught up in modern culture and realizing that you need to go back to your roots. It’s about experiencing all of the things that you think are going to make you happy and figuring out that they don’t. The romantic element is about going through a string of failed relationships and looking for love in the wrong people. But the crux of the song is that in order to find the right person, you need to become the right person yourself.”
Further, Shada adds, “I wanted it to sound like a modern-day version of an ‘80s song. Obviously, the guitar solo hits that over the head but I really like the Phil Collins-sounding drums mixed with electronic pads over the top. I wanted the tempo to have space in the verses but be very upbeat during the chorus to really sell the mood of feeling like you’re hearing a song that could be playing in a nightclub, that highlights the mood you may be in when you’re lost.”
Inspired by the darkwave sounds of the 80s, wrapped in the Gen X soul of the 90s, tied together by the new millennium electro-clash energy of New York City in the ‘00s, LEVVELS blends the subtleties of each influence’s nuances and ushers them into the modern era to do just that…make you feel.
Working with the Los Angeles based production and songwriting duo HEAVY (Lovelytheband, The Unlikely Candidates, Chase Atlantic, Goo Goo Dolls), LEVVELS has put together an initial release that that has been compared to a modern sounding Depeche Mode mixed with the intense refinement of the Killer’s Hot Fuss…had its origins been a late night/early morning Los Angeles after hours party instead of the bright lights and failed dreams of Las Vegas.
With their first single Keep Me Alive, LEVVELS taps into the franticness of desire amidst a waning connection, all while craving one more taste of lust that has been lost. Shrouded in an energetic pace that builds relentlessly, it leaves one wanting to fully dive into the sins and sounds that exist at the deepest levels of the human experience.
Shifting to their second release “Personal”, the bass groove launches you into the arms of life’s most passionate moments. The drum beat drives your desires directly onto the dance floor and the vocals hit urgently, bringing the listener full force into the passion and complexities of wanting what you have while craving what you don’t. In LEVVELS, you get it all.
Adding another unforgettable tune to his repertoire of bold and brazen singles, L.A. popstar-in-the-making Miles Wesley returns with new captivating song Medicine ft. Jutes.
Never failing to illustrate the versatility and innovation within his musicality, Medicine sees Miles outline the notion of being hypnotized by an intoxicating relationship, as stripped back sonics lay solid ground for his self-assured vocal prowess. Emerging with mellow acoustic guitar licks and an achingly catchy hook, the track showcases the singer – songwriter – guitarist’s more tender side, whilst simultaneously upholding the signature swagger that has left his global fanbase clamoring for more
Consistently proving himself as one-to-watch, Miles Wesley carves his own place in the industry with his contemporary stylings. Seamlessly blending hip-hop vocabulary with impactful pop melodies, Miles creates tunes which deliver a kick, shattering the confines of genre and expectation. Propelled by unbounded self-belief and a drive to succeed, the artist broke out of his hometown in Texas in 2017 and headed to L.A. to fully devote his time to music.
After innumerable hours of graft, his accolades began to stack up. His 2019 debut single ‘6 Feet Under’ was championed by globally influential YouTube channel Promoting Sounds. Following his inception as a rising talent, Miles went on to release singles ‘Lil Mama’ ft. Trevor Daniels and ‘Feel the Same’, both tunes reaching
astronomical heights with over 20 million independent streams, leading to a publishing deal with Prescription Songs.
Gozé, is the alias of producer/artist Sebastian Fritze. Hailing from Stockholm, Sweden and currently based in Venice, CA, Gozé is deeply inspired by the melodic hooks and beat-based poetry of 90’s Hip Hop. The project began with a simple concept in mind: to have a new featured artist on every track he releases, ultimately infusing each song with a fresh vibe and keeping the listener on their toes. Fritze is also a member of the acclaimed indie rock band Grizfolk.
His latest single “Wish U Well”, features New York rapper LoftBlue and Los Angeles artist Sakari. The 90s hip-hop inspired tune is rich in poetic production, emitting a cool, laid-back aura. Starting off with an icy intro, the smooth beat and deep bassy burn shifts into an alluring emporium of vocals from Sakari, giving off buckets of class and creating a cool, mellow atmosphere. Gozé divulges, “I get inspired by songs that take you on a journey. I wanted the listener to feel like they start somewhere and end up somewhere else and at that point say ‘wait, is this the same song?’ to then bring them back home again.”
With the intention to create music that brings an essence of nostalgia, whilst being fresh and new, Gozé delivers a surprise with each and every release. He confides, “I love hearing a track and being able to recognize instantly who produced it. The Neptunes, Timbaland, Dr. Dre had such unique sounds that their productions almost became the artist itself. My intentions are to create that with Gozé.
Over the years, Fritze has performed to sold-out arenas, at venues including Red Rocks and Radio City Music Hall and on shows such as David Letterman, Conan O’Brien and many more. His previous release “Chasing Dreams” features rapper Old Man Saxon and trans activist Shea Diamond and is the official song for Hulu’s Original Documentary, “Changing The Game.”
Mason Rose Gray is a singer/songwriter based in Florida. Creating music with the sole intention of shining light into the dark and exposing the truth, her sound blends indie, folk and blues with honest and raw lyrics, unlocking a whole new world; the good, the bad, the ugly. Inspired by the likes of Miranda Lambert, Billie Eilish and David Bowie, Gray evokes a unique and infectious sound that encourages self-love and ultimately provides the key to happiness.
Having experienced a turbulent upbringing with many ups and downs, the artist has now learnt to put herself first and focus on her own happiness. Setting out with the desire to spread love and joy and create music to lift your soul and spirit, Gray’s sound makes you feel alive. Through a shimmery lens, the musician emphasizes the importance of connecting with humanity and finding love in the little things.
“Perfect Design” blossomed after Gray found true love within herself, as well as the world around her. The singer-songwriter spills, “Perfect Design describes loving every part of your mind, body and soul as well as others. I believe we are all individually unique and special in our own ways. The world is a romantic place and love is the key to making it go round.” The track will fill your heart up with folk pop-influenced energy and a foot-stomping beat to sing and dance to unapologetically. Gray shares, “The song idea and melody came to me in the mirror as I was getting ready for a sister dinner date. I started singing perfect design around the house and played guitar as my sister, Brittany sang along. We would shoot lyrics back and forth, being super goofy and having a blast. These were some of my favourite moments in the creation. This song is dedicated to her. She’s one of my best friends. She’s always there for me when I need her and I love her so much! Our relationship stands the test of time. She puts a smile on my face every time she sings perfect design.”
Dirty pop singer-songwriter Fiona Grey begins a new era today, arriving with her eagerly awaited MNDR-produced single, “Sick Of It.” Inspired by the consequences of “filter era,” fake conversions and universal doom, “Sick Of It” is set to make you dance while simultaneously rolling your eyes at everything you would happily live without, available now at all DSPsHERE.
“‘Sick Of It’ was inspired by the era of filters and the ways in which society pushes us to try to all be the same version of beauty,” says Grey. “On a personal level it was me sick of playing into those toxic parts of our society. From an industry level it was me sick of the fake small talk, the watching everyone play a character of themselves. It’s a rolling my eyes-kinda pop anthem.”
As the professional basketball season comes to a close, basketball fans everywhere can continue their love of the game at home with the launch of the Crown Royal and Columbia Records gaming collaboration: The Crown Crossover – Music, Gaming and Culture Series. This six-episode series streams on the official Crown Royal Facebook page, featuring Columbia Records artists Quinn XCII, Joey Bada$$, CHASE B and more, playing NBA 2K. This unique partnership sits at the intersections of gaming, music and basketball, with each artist connecting and competing with top gamers, including iPodKingCarter, Aerial Powers, Erin Ashley Simon and Mike LaBelle.
During the weekly livestream series, a Columbia Records artist, two NBA 2K League players from the Detroit Pistons GT or Hawks Talon Gaming, and gamer will be discussing their latest projects and basketball, engaging with 21+ fans, and enjoying a Crown Royal cocktail responsibly. The first two episodes featured Columbia artist Quinn XCII, and fans will be able to watch the final four episodes with Joey Bada$$ and Chase B every Wednesday this month.
In addition to the Columbia Records partnership, Crown Royal has inked team deals with two official NBA 2K League affiliates, the Hawks Talon Gaming and Detroit Pistons GT. As part of these deals, Crown Royal will be working with each team to engage with fans at this exciting connection of gaming and esports.
“Our partnership with Columbia Records, the Pistons GT and Hawks Talon for The Crown Crossover livestream is another way for us to take our passion and love for the game of basketball and bring it directly to our fans,” said Nicky Heckles, Vice President of Crown Royal. “This weekly experience brings some of the league’s brightest stars, professional gamers and musicians together in a way we can’t help but be excited about.”
Following hot on the heels of lead single “Take 3”, cult LA indie-rock group Inner Wave today unveil a second track from forthcoming album Apoptosis, the beautiful and beguiling “June”.
“June” opens with the pastoral picking of an acoustic guitar, complete with the audible tweets of a singing bird. From here layer upon layer of fuzzing analogue synth chords, dry drum grooves and dreamy vocal harmonies are built – all underpinned by driving acoustic guitar chords.
Described simply as “a love song” by singer/guitarist Pablo Sotelo, the track’s chorus is mesmerising in its guileless sincerity: “I just wanna share the world with you // Show you all the things that I could do.” Sotelo further explains: “I had written this song on my acoustic initially. When I brought it to the guys it came together very quickly.”
Los Angeles based producer, artist, musician and writer Daniel Loumpouridis reached the career milestone of a certified gold record early in his career as co-writer and co-producer of Louis The Child’s single, “It’s Strange (ft. K.Flay),” garnering millions of streams and features on FIFA, Netflix, and Nissan, As a producer, Daniel has developed artists on Atlantic, KIDinaKORNER/Universal, Prescription Songs, Sony UK, and Modern Works. As a writer, Daniel scored the Netflix series Harvey Girls and co-wrote the title track for Nick Leng’s LP, LEMONS. Today, with over 3.5 million plays on Soundcloud and 1.1 million streams on Spotify, Daniel is gearing up for the release of his two-album artist project U and Us, with the first single “Me” landing on Apple Music’s New Alternative playlist.
Rising artist and tender pop creator, Zachary Knowles, shares his debut album, tendency to be a loner, today via FADER Label. In celebration of the release, Knowles also shares a new video for “life sentence,” out now, which was produced by Del Water Gap and Dylan Bauld (Halsey, The Neighborhood). Following the previously released singles “stranger to me,” “tendency to be a loner ” — co-written with Ashe, co-produced by Alexander23 — “dancing in the kitchen,” “carpool,” and “johnny & june” — co-produced by X Lovers, the experience of the album is finally here in full form — showing the range and depth of emotion from the innermost world of Knowles.
On the LP as a whole, Zachary Knowles says, “This album is about my introverted nature. I wanted to capture what my day-to-day looks like as far as emotions go. Most days, I just wanna be by myself. I’ll say no to things I know I’d have fun doing, just because that’s what feels normal to me. Other days though, I’ll go out, hang with people, etc, and I’ll have fun. I wanted the flow of this album to feel like the flow of my emotions. Some days I wanna be alone and some days I wanna get out. This album represents the highs and lows of that struggle, and hopefully, it connects with people who feel the same way.”
Ezra Jordan is an independant singer/songwriter from Toronto, Ontario. His music draws inspiration from Contemporary Pop, R&B, and Soul and he approaches songwriting with a focus on piano. Since his journey as an artist began, he has amassed over 250,000 views on YouTube, 5.5 million streams + on Spotify, and has charted on the radio in the US. Ezra’s most recent release, Cougars, perfectly encapsulates what made Ezra’s previous releases so special but at the same time signifies the closing of a chapter in Ezra’s career.
For his sophomore EP, Ezra will be transitioning over into a more real, raw and emotional sound that will allow his fans to dive deep into his psyche and authentic self. This will be a new Ezra Jordan that no one has ever seen or heard before.
Renowned Stockholm-based talent Lucas Nord returns with a new single through his Hans Göran moniker, ‘Girl’. The latest track serves as the fourth release from his upcoming ‘A Summer With Hans Göran’ EP, slated to release this month. It directly follows his prior singles ‘LIMONCELLO’, ‘FIKA’, and ‘GANG’ off the EP. The bouncy house track replicates the feel-good, warm feeling of dancing a summer night away. Out now via Nord’s very own Bisous imprint, ‘Girl’ is available to listen to across all streaming platforms.
STREAM/DOWNLOAD: HANS GÖRAN – ‘GIRL’ [BISOUS]
The infectious and groovy offering immediately opens up with a pulsating kick-drum, building with the vocals ‘Girl let’s make some memories.’ The track takes listeners through an entrancing and propulsive soundscape, gradually going through high and low cuts throughout the song. Exploding with energy, ‘Girl’ is tinged with bright synths and an irresistible rhythm. The feel-good tune is reminiscent of the feeling of a summer night out, maintaining a lively and bouncy ambiance for the duration of its runtime.
I wrote “Forever Yours” about that feeling you get when you meet your soulmate – you just know that what you have with them is going to last. This is one of the first happy songs that I’ve written, complete with a soft, jazzy and intimate atmosphere.
I really wanted to encapsulate the emotions of first falling in love…
When your eyes lock, your hands touch while walking beside them, your first kiss – that feeling of I’m falling in love and nothing else matters.
I love writing sad ballads, so this was a big change for me during the writing process.
“Forever Yours” has helped me find a love for writing positive songs as well.
Thank you for listening,
noelle
Atlanta-based singer-songwriter TARYN is sharing the official music video for her latest single, “Brand New.”
“Brand New” is about shedding regrets from the past and welcoming growth, vulnerability, and experience with open arms. The pairing music video was shot in Nashville, TN and was created with a small team consisting of director Joseph Wasilewski, assistant director Garrett Boiling, gaffer Richard Chilton, and choreographer Ysa Fernandez. Over the course of the video, the camera follows TARYN closely as she dances through her home, mirroring the intimate and autobiographical nature of the song. “I think the video does a beautiful job of conveying what the song represents: frequent change and the feeling of freedom in your own space, creating an environment for yourself that you’re comfortable with and that you’re proud to live in, that expresses who you are on the inside and out,” TARYN says.
Orchestrating their hostile takeover of dancefloors everywhere, today – NOPRISM – release their anthemic new single: “Animosity”.
Stream here: https://ditto.fm/animosity-noprism
WATCH VIDEO HERE
A track about the “joys and sacrifices of love” that’s synergised with a merciless groove that will take no prisoners, the Newcastle four-piece hit their synth/pop stride with a calculating strut.
“I’m always fascinated (obsessed) about the idea that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction, and the idea of love is no different. Very often you see people giving up important things or opportunities in their lives for the sake of love. But obviously it’s why we’re all here, and the positives that it brings is what makes us human.”
Recalling the world dominating highs of the Nile Rogers-produced Duran Duran years, “Animosity” taps into that winning formula of taut funky guitars, an intimidatingly huge electronic production, and an earworm chorus designed to eat you alive.
Inspired by the definitively super-camp vogue music that soundtracks the MJ Rodriguez/Billy Porter show ‘Pose’, the song was written as something of a distraction during the lockdown of last year. Turbo-charging those aesthetics with a radical makeover of their own design, NOPRISM soon realised they’d hit upon one of their most irresistible compositions to date.
“We decided to write a song for voguing to, but with our own imprint on it.” says Andrew. “Initially we put it on spotify briefly under a pseudonym and uploaded it to the BBC, who played it. We quickly changed our minds though and decided it was too good a song to just throw away, so we took it offline. This version being released now is a re-recorded and remixed version, with the added input of the full band.”
Bishop Ivy introduced himself as an alternative-pop songwriter known for his innovative music which mixed organic instruments with digital sounds, field recordings, electronica influences, and samples. Continuing to sharpen that sound, he now embellishes it with pop hooks, sonically adventurous production and autobiographical lyrics. Ivy’s focus on imaginative sound and sharp songcraft began in Boston, where he kicked off his career as a 14-year-old street busker on the neighbourhood sidewalks of Back Bay. Now based in Pittsburgh, where he studies music, electrical engineering and computer science, and with a number of releases under his belt, Ivy hopes to further his ability to manipulate music.
Inspired by boundary breakers like Bon Iver, Frank Ocean, James Blake, and Imogen Heap, Ivy has built his career upon attention to detail. He’s responsible for virtually every sound he creates, with his willingness to juxtapose synthesized sounds with raw, organic music being the driving force behind what he does.
Written a year apart from his previous track “tunnel vision”, “the park” is break up song 2.0. The knack for writing moving, authentic lyrics comes easy to the songwriter. Written from a place of retrospect, the tune talks of his healing period taking longer than anticipated, focusing on positive memories and beginning to let go of the pain and heartbreak. He explains, “The central metaphor is that I locked myself in those good memories I have, which is what “the park” represents. The bridge represents a realization of this and beginning of letting go, which coincides with a fitting change in the music.”
Swooping in with a ballad-esque taste, we’re given the beauty of simplicity with Ivy’s stunning falsetto vocal tone reminiscent of Muse’s frontman Matt Bellamy. In his true style, the backing vocals leave an echoing ripple effect before the upbeat, electro rush comes in through a restrained array of production. Including a creative range of samples, the young musician shares, “The hi-hats include my dad’s motorcycle starting up. The snare is me hitting a stop sign, and another snare is me smashing my skateboard into a wall. What is effectively the crash cymbal was a harpsichord some professor played at my school and I recorded a single note.”
Racking up over 1.5 million streams for his music to date and garnering support from publications such as Live Nation’s Ones to Watch, Clash, Flaunt Magazine, American Songwriter and Earmilk, Bishop Ivy is quickly becoming an artist to watch in 2021.
“Believer” is a mood-propelling, danceable track with gratitude at the heart of it, about how transformative it can be to have even one person in your life who expresses their belief in you.
Sometimes, more than advice or a friendly ear, you just need to hear someone say “you’ve got this.”
Have a listen to “Believer” via your preferred streaming platform.
There are a lot of emotional ups and downs trying to navigate your early career as an artist, and I think I would’ve lost faith in my own ability to do what I hoped if it hadn’t been for the stated belief of a few people around me.
Kodiak Arcade
It should come as no surprise that the Orlando-bred, LA-based artist is ready for his close-up. Despite the challenges of 2020, the last year was easily his most productive and successful year yet. He achieved his first Billboard Hot 100 hit with the Post Malone-featuring “Tommy Lee,” which has generated over 200 million streams to-date. His second single of the year, “Stuntin’ On You” featuring a scorching DaBaby, immediately followed and has generated over 80 million streams of its own thus far. Both tracks received special remixes, with SAINt JHN (stream HERE) and Tommy Lee (watch HERE) himself remixing “Tommy Lee,” and DDG and Dame D.O.L.L.A. joining Tyla on a new version of “Stuntin’ On You” (watch HERE). In addition, 2020 saw Tyla receive his first two Gold records, for “Tommy Lee” as well as his 2019 break-out “High Right Now,” taken from his debut project Heart Full Of Rage, with RAGER BOY’s “Stuntin On You” going Gold in 2021. Plus, he continues to approach a billion career streams and made his television debut, performing “Tommy Lee” with Post Malone on the Billboard Music Awards (watch HERE). “Stuntin’ On You” is featured within FOX Sports’ live sports franchises world-wide for all 2020-2021 seasons, while “Tommy Lee” appears on the latest edition of the wildly popular NBA 2K video game franchise.
NAHLI’s talent precedes her; her unique raw and sparkling approach to her music, style and life as an artist has been highlighted in depth via her features on tracks such as Professor Green’s ‘Bad Decisions’, Rude Kid’s ‘Please Don’t’, Crystal Fighters ‘Costa Rica’ and Conducta’s ‘Only U’ but as she flies solo on her new single ‘Something’s Gotta Change’, NAHLI’s level of talent can really be admired in its glory.
STREAM/DOWNLOAD: NAHLI – SOMETHING’S GOTTA CHANGE
In a thought-provoking statement, ‘Something’s Gotta Change’ epitomises who NAHLI is as an artist. It’s not just a single, it’s more than that, just as NAHLI isn’t just an artist. A spokesperson, an activist, a colourful array of talent, thought and lyricism, NAHLI is using her craft for purpose and ‘Something’s Gotta Change’ marks the start of that.
Understanding the catalyst of the creation, NAHLI explains, “The world is starting to allow triggering messages in film and TV series, more and more every day. We’re seeing more understanding of LGBTQIA+. We’re seeing more representation of race and colour. We’re broadening our minds. We’re no longer brushing topics like rape and racism and discrimination under the rug. The media is no longer turning their backs on women claiming to be a ‘victim’ or for ‘asking for it’ or ‘she wore provocative clothing’. NOW is the time for change. I want people to feel empowered by this track. You’re not alone anymore. This is a movement. This is my absolute proudest work.”
MUSIC VIDEO: NAHLI – SOMETHING’S GOTTA CHANGE
Continuing to turn heads with critical praise and millions of streams, acclaimed Los Angeles singer, songwriter, and artist IndiaShawn unveils a new single and music video entitled “Don’t Play With My Heart” today.Get it HERE via Epic Records. Watch the music video HERE.
The track rides a simmering beat as her powerful delivery takes the spotlight. She flexes her impressive vocal range, reaching heavenly heights on the climactic chorus. In the accompanying visual directed by David Camerena, she plays an old vinyl and falls into a shimmering disco soul dream. Throughout the clip, she delivers a show-stopping performance and rocks various Studio 54-ready high fashion looks, nodding to the spirit and style of the seventies’ foremost icons with her own attitude.
Regarding the visual, India said, “”The ‘Don’t Play With My Heart’ video pays homage to the original and iconic queens of soul, like Donna Summer and Diana Ross. My intention is to serve a fresh and nostalgic take on their legacies. The visual directed by David Camerena expresses my interpretation of the unique, feminine style and their ultimate creative power.”
North Carolinan post-punk group Tongues Of Fire today share their single “Numb” in advance of the release of the Burn My Body Clean EP via Florida’s Godless America Records on August 27th.
The group’s songwriter, singer and guitarist, Lowell Hobbs, endured the loss of his mother after a gruelling cancer battle during the recording of Everyone Hates Us (2019), but it is now, on Burn My Body Clean, where he has had the opportunity to truly process and explore the experience. These songs represent five stages of the grieving process; each written at a different time and each contributing to the furious catharsis that is borne out in the arrangements. While not clearly delineated into denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance, each of the five tracks tackle distinct periods in their own ways. From the self-imposed depressed isolation of “Room”, through the visceral anger of “Clean”, to the more acceptant “inst”, which features a sample of the voice of Lowell’s mother.
Chris Pidsley is a singer/songwriter from Gloucestershire, UK. Now based in London, Pidsley crafts infectious, indie-pop sounds with a healthy dose of angsty, sad boy vibes. With an overall theme of sun, summer and nostalgia, his music is raw and relatable, making the perfect laid-back soundtrack to the everyday lives of twenty-somethings.
His new five-track EP Daisies, touches on tales and feelings from Pidsley’s life. Carrying a warmth and honesty that flows through a golden pool of soothing production, the release glows with character and emotion. Curated from the depths of his bedroom, the DIY vibe brings an essence of authenticity, giving us a peek into the world of the artist.
Opening track “Tie Dye T-Shirt” introduces itself as a floral, hazy tune before kicking into an energetic blast. Beginning with a lullaby energy of woozy, muffled guitar and a funky lead bassline, it quickly swings into a comfortable, soothing sway of velvety goodness. Inspired by the notorious lockdown activities of obsessively tie-dying clothes, Pidsley took the opportunity to honour these moments in a vibrant, colourful single. Inspired by The 1975 and Rex Orange County and their knack for creating tongue-in-cheek music with playful, jazz-infused guitars, “Tie Dye T-Shirt” was born.
Then there is “Listen To Your Mum” – a relatable track about how your Mum always seems to have an opinion about your love life. Reminiscent of Cavetown, the song blends acoustic and DIY synthesised beats to create a lighthearted ode to all mothers. Title-track “Daisies” narrates a summer love. The musician shares, “The kind that you wish would never end and always brings you nostalgia whenever the sun shines.” The fast-paced “Skinny” speaks about body positivity and loving yourself no matter what anyone else says. Through driving beats and heavy electric guitar, this is a true indie-pop bop.
“Rosie” brings the EP to a close, with a personal, vulnerable and direct lyrical message to a girl (ironically not named Rosie). Recorded in one take, with just Pidsley, his guitar and a microphone, this highly intimate, romantic and hypnotic single in its skeletal form, bares the bones of the songwriter’s soul. Pidsley reveals, “I wanted to maintain that sense of stark vulnerability and authenticity. Similar to “She Lays Down,” the closer of the second The 1975 album”. This track may conjure a tear or a smile, but ultimately shows Pidsley in a raw state revealing his unmistakable talent.
“Loud Is Beautiful” is the new single from HELLO COSMOS.
LISTEN HERE: https://lnk.to/loudisbeautiful
Featuring typically outspoken wordplay from Ben Robinson, the Hello Cosmos head-honcho is joined by guest vocalists Telle & Elara on this latest effort.
A swirl of esoteric synths, clipped beats and sampled brass inflections, “Loud Is Beautiful” the latest cut to emerge from a brand new mixtape project: ‘Golden Dirt’; a new collaboration with San Francisco-based producer The Olchemist.
“Having this opportunity to work with Hello Cosmos and being featured on their ‘Lockdown’ project has been an amazing experience. They’re insanely talented and they’re right up my alley in terms of style. I’ve always wanted to collab with a rock band. I’m beyond grateful to share this wonderful journey with them. LET’S GET LOUD CHAMPS!! You’re going to love this one!”
Vicu is a Maryland based electro/pop artist who has made a name for himself with a loud sonic boom. As a self-taught producer, audio engineer and songwriter, Vicu’s music features rhythmic pop sounds and fresh, modern-edge songwriting. Originally from Romania, Vicu was adopted at a young age and brought up in a family of both musicians and lovers of music. Constantly surrounded by a diversity of sounds, he knew at just 14 years old that he wanted to pursue a career in music. Known for his smooth, flawless vocals, stunning, sleek production and honest songwriting about mess ups, makeups and everything in between, Vicu draws in the hopeless romantic inside of us all. His passion and fervor captivates his listeners, keeping you in his grasp.
His latest single “Focused On You” beams with romantic guitar loops rippling over a rhythmic bass tracing the beat of R&B high hats. The song has a dreamy, floating soundscape that is polished by a tight beat and a slightly muffled, rocking grit, along with a background of dancing electric solos. The track is both freeing and intimate, radiating summer energy, sunset vibes and amorous feelings. The single bodes a message from Vicu to ensure his lover knows they’re his top priority.
Vicu explains that the single is his interpretation of what summer love feels like, sharing, “I want the listener to be able to roll the top down and take their girlfriend or boyfriend on the adventure of a lifetime.” Taking influence from the likes of Justin Bieber, Bazzi, Bruno Mars and Drake, Vicu hopes to follow a similar path of merging both the R&B and pop worlds.
Explaining how music for him is a form of therapy, Vicu wants to inspire others to pursue what they love and discover what truly brings them happiness. Having garnered over half a million streams for his music thus far, Vicu is quickly becoming an artist on the rise. “Focused On You” is currently available worldwide.
In nature, certain things happen for a reason and there’s really nothing anybody can do about that. This song encompasses that ideology of ‘what’s meant to happen will happen.’
Hear “Natural” on your preferred platform.
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/distantmatter/natural
I used the same vocals from the first demo of “Natural” through to the final master.
There is so much beauty in imperfection and this song embraces those organic tendencies of life.
This song is emotional and nostalgic. I hope that it can accompany you as you follow your intuition and while you spend time in the natural world.
Thank you for listening,
Distant Matter
A!MS officially announces the forthcoming release of his first studio album ‘OFFSHORE’ as he joins together with Akelle from platinum selling, chart-topping super group WSTRN, and frequent collaborator AV Allure for single ‘iLIKE’.
STREAM/DOWNLOAD: A!MS – iLIKE FT AV ALLURE & AKELLE
Taking to social media, the rap star confirmed the new single is taken from his debut project, which will be with us at the end of Summer. Having had huge success releasing singles throughout his career, that have awarded him over 20 million streams, 50 million YouTube views, platinum selling records and numerous awards, the album is set to be the culmination of his life’s work and experience, something that has substance, graft and endless topical content to explore.
PRE-ORDER: A!MS DEBUT ALBUM ‘OFFSHORE’
Hailing from the Boston area, Paul Wright and Tim Harrington met each other in their hometown of Sturbridge through Tim’s older brother. The friendship blossomed in high school when they both took up the guitar and began working on music together. It didn’t take long for them to see the potential hidden in these casual jam sessions. As Paul recalls, “Tim transformed from kid brother to musical collaborator over the course of a summer.”
Combining Paul’s lifetime of classical training, Harrington’s spontaneous artistic instincts, and the prismatic union of their unique voices, Tall Heights’ sonic imprint is in a category all its own.
Tall Heights’ recordings have amassed over 275 million streams and they’ve toured alongside groups like Judah & the Lion, Colony House, The Paper Kites, and Magic Giant.
Born and raised in South-Central Trinidad, John Orpheus is a multi-cultural musical artist and published author. For the past year and a half, he had been writing his memoir called SAGA BOY which was published by Penguin Random House Canada on January 19, 2021 and will be launched by Milkweed Editions in the US on September 14, 2021. With the book done, John decided to return to music and release a companion album entitled SAGA KING. Both the book and the album are based on similar themes: searching for home, family, love and a fly coat to wear when you get there! SAGA BOY is the journey of the boy. SAGA KING is the celebration of the man.
John Orpheus’ musical journey has taken him from the Caribbean bush to festivals across Canada and the US to opening for Liam Gallagher on a UK tour as the frontman for a Happy Mondays offshoot band. He combines hip-hop swagger, Afrobeat energy and dancehall charisma to create a sound built on big catchy hooks. John is known for his rabble-rousing live shows filled with audience participation, chanting and impromptu dance-offs that feel more like Caribana road parties than concerts. In September 2019, he released his debut album WEY YA CALL DAT TING, the culmination of a three year, four mixtape project that he used to develop and hone his unique sound. Produced and co-written by Mike Schlosser, the album and the standalone single ELECTRIC released in 2020 fulfilled his early promise with a noticeably more pop and upbeat vibe. “The world is a soulful, sound-splash, dance party. That’s the sound I want to create.”
ad•era is a Canadian alternative/indie trio with a Chilean heart. Tiffany Calderbank and Tomás Valenzuela met at community college in Vancouver, BC in 2016. The two shared a passion for rhythmic music with contrast and depth. Artists like St. Vincent, Glass Animals, and Little Dragon inspired them early on to develop a sound of their own where pretty and distorted could walk hand in hand. With Valenzuela primarily focusing on production/mixing and Calderbank on songwriting/production, the duo let their music evolve and grow along with them. In 2020 drummer Ian Cardona, who coincidentally shares some of Valenzuela’s Chilean roots, joined the group and became the third piece to the puzzle. Now with a fresh new sound, the three are a polite yet daring force to be reckoned with.
Two years after his last full-length EP, Crankdat is back with his debut Monstercat EP ‘Sad Robot’. Spanning five original tracks including the previously released “Better Without You” and “The Feeling (feat. Ace Aura)”, ‘Sad Robot’ fully encapsulates Crankdat’s range and evolution as a producer. Right off the bat, the colourful synth stabs in “Wish You Were Here” add an unexpected melodic layer to his signature bass-heavy drops. Taking listeners on a nostalgic musical journey, the titular track, “What It Feels Like (feat. KC)” pays homage to Crankdat’s classic melodic sound through its infectious vocals, rich bassline, and powerful chord stacks.
Crankdat shares, “‘Sad Robot’ EP is my first full-length EP since my ‘Gearworld Vol. 1’ EP in 2019. This EP showcases my melodic style in a manner reminiscent of the music I made when I first started my project back in 2015. I’m very happy to have had some awesome collaborators help me with it – including JT Roach, Ace Aura, and KC!”
Crankdat has performed all over the world, at EDC Las Vegas, Wobbleland, Sunset Music Festival, and recently, at Lifted Nightclub in Austin, Texas. His remixes and originals have seen widespread support from major artists like Marshmello, DJ Snake, The Chainsmokers, and more. As live shows continue to make their comeback, fans can look forward to hearing ‘Sad Robot’ live at Stereo Live in Dallas, Celine Orlando, and more to come.
Following his popular debut single, “Sunshine Baby”, Nashville’s Luke Lasso is excited to announce his new track – “I-65”. Lasso is new to the music scene and thrilled to continue putting out new music after spending most of 2020 cultivating his sound and making new music. “I-65” was inspired by the many miles Lasso has spent driving on the major highway that runs through Nashville, connecting the Gulf of Mexico to the Great Lakes. Lasso’s lyrics paint a picture of riding confidently, committed to dreaming big and starting a new journey. The song comes at a perfect time, when many of us are coming out of the pandemic to begin a next chapter and find our inner confidence – the track serves as the hype man copilot we all need to reenter the world. “I wanted this song to feel like you’re flying down the interstate, windows down during the golden hour,” said Lasso. “Everything has an orange glow, the air is thin, your arm is hanging out of the window, your hand is making waves in the wind. You’re cruising with the volume all the way up on the car stereo and you feel at peace, letting the music completely take over.”
(photo credit: Bernardo Noguiera)
Introducing Jeremy Shada—the bi-coastal Emmy and MTV Award winning actor and musician most notable for his work as Reggie Peters in Netflix’s Julie and the Phantoms, the voice of Finn the Human in Cartoon Network’s Adventure Time, and previously the bassist of pop-punk act Make Out Monday, just to name a few. On his new independent endeavor, the 24-year-old talent explores an array of soundscapes from the greatest eras of popular music by-way-of autobiographical vignettes. Tapping Zack Odom and Kenneth Mount as his right-hand collaborators, Shada now shares his new single “Dancing With Strangers”—an anti-hookup culture bop filled with Phil Collins-esque ‘80s drum beats and an electrifying guitar solo that’ll inspire you to find love again.
On “Dancing With Strangers,” Jeremy Shada looks deep into his psyche as he examines the societal pressures around dating in your 20s. He explains, “The song is really about a personal low point of being caught up in modern culture and realizing that you need to go back to your roots. It’s about experiencing all of the things that you think are going to make you happy and figuring out that they don’t. The romantic element is about going through a string of failed relationships and looking for love in the wrong people. But the crux of the song is that in order to find the right person, you need to become the right person yourself.”
Further, Shada adds, “I wanted it to sound like a modern-day version of an ‘80s song. Obviously, the guitar solo hits that over the head but I really like the Phil Collins-sounding drums mixed with electronic pads over the top. I wanted the tempo to have space in the verses but be very upbeat during the chorus to really sell the mood of feeling like you’re hearing a song that could be playing in a nightclub, that highlights the mood you may be in when you’re lost.”
Inspired by the darkwave sounds of the 80s, wrapped in the Gen X soul of the 90s, tied together by the new millennium electro-clash energy of New York City in the ‘00s, LEVVELS blends the subtleties of each influence’s nuances and ushers them into the modern era to do just that…make you feel.
Working with the Los Angeles based production and songwriting duo HEAVY (Lovelytheband, The Unlikely Candidates, Chase Atlantic, Goo Goo Dolls), LEVVELS has put together an initial release that that has been compared to a modern sounding Depeche Mode mixed with the intense refinement of the Killer’s Hot Fuss…had its origins been a late night/early morning Los Angeles after hours party instead of the bright lights and failed dreams of Las Vegas.
With their first single Keep Me Alive, LEVVELS taps into the franticness of desire amidst a waning connection, all while craving one more taste of lust that has been lost. Shrouded in an energetic pace that builds relentlessly, it leaves one wanting to fully dive into the sins and sounds that exist at the deepest levels of the human experience.
Shifting to their second release “Personal”, the bass groove launches you into the arms of life’s most passionate moments. The drum beat drives your desires directly onto the dance floor and the vocals hit urgently, bringing the listener full force into the passion and complexities of wanting what you have while craving what you don’t. In LEVVELS, you get it all.
Adding another unforgettable tune to his repertoire of bold and brazen singles, L.A. popstar-in-the-making Miles Wesley returns with new captivating song Medicine ft. Jutes.
Never failing to illustrate the versatility and innovation within his musicality, Medicine sees Miles outline the notion of being hypnotized by an intoxicating relationship, as stripped back sonics lay solid ground for his self-assured vocal prowess. Emerging with mellow acoustic guitar licks and an achingly catchy hook, the track showcases the singer – songwriter – guitarist’s more tender side, whilst simultaneously upholding the signature swagger that has left his global fanbase clamoring for more
Consistently proving himself as one-to-watch, Miles Wesley carves his own place in the industry with his contemporary stylings. Seamlessly blending hip-hop vocabulary with impactful pop melodies, Miles creates tunes which deliver a kick, shattering the confines of genre and expectation. Propelled by unbounded self-belief and a drive to succeed, the artist broke out of his hometown in Texas in 2017 and headed to L.A. to fully devote his time to music.
After innumerable hours of graft, his accolades began to stack up. His 2019 debut single ‘6 Feet Under’ was championed by globally influential YouTube channel Promoting Sounds. Following his inception as a rising talent, Miles went on to release singles ‘Lil Mama’ ft. Trevor Daniels and ‘Feel the Same’, both tunes reaching
astronomical heights with over 20 million independent streams, leading to a publishing deal with Prescription Songs.
Gozé, is the alias of producer/artist Sebastian Fritze. Hailing from Stockholm, Sweden and currently based in Venice, CA, Gozé is deeply inspired by the melodic hooks and beat-based poetry of 90’s Hip Hop. The project began with a simple concept in mind: to have a new featured artist on every track he releases, ultimately infusing each song with a fresh vibe and keeping the listener on their toes. Fritze is also a member of the acclaimed indie rock band Grizfolk.
His latest single “Wish U Well”, features New York rapper LoftBlue and Los Angeles artist Sakari. The 90s hip-hop inspired tune is rich in poetic production, emitting a cool, laid-back aura. Starting off with an icy intro, the smooth beat and deep bassy burn shifts into an alluring emporium of vocals from Sakari, giving off buckets of class and creating a cool, mellow atmosphere. Gozé divulges, “I get inspired by songs that take you on a journey. I wanted the listener to feel like they start somewhere and end up somewhere else and at that point say ‘wait, is this the same song?’ to then bring them back home again.”
With the intention to create music that brings an essence of nostalgia, whilst being fresh and new, Gozé delivers a surprise with each and every release. He confides, “I love hearing a track and being able to recognize instantly who produced it. The Neptunes, Timbaland, Dr. Dre had such unique sounds that their productions almost became the artist itself. My intentions are to create that with Gozé.
Over the years, Fritze has performed to sold-out arenas, at venues including Red Rocks and Radio City Music Hall and on shows such as David Letterman, Conan O’Brien and many more. His previous release “Chasing Dreams” features rapper Old Man Saxon and trans activist Shea Diamond and is the official song for Hulu’s Original Documentary, “Changing The Game.”
Mason Rose Gray is a singer/songwriter based in Florida. Creating music with the sole intention of shining light into the dark and exposing the truth, her sound blends indie, folk and blues with honest and raw lyrics, unlocking a whole new world; the good, the bad, the ugly. Inspired by the likes of Miranda Lambert, Billie Eilish and David Bowie, Gray evokes a unique and infectious sound that encourages self-love and ultimately provides the key to happiness.
Having experienced a turbulent upbringing with many ups and downs, the artist has now learnt to put herself first and focus on her own happiness. Setting out with the desire to spread love and joy and create music to lift your soul and spirit, Gray’s sound makes you feel alive. Through a shimmery lens, the musician emphasizes the importance of connecting with humanity and finding love in the little things.
“Perfect Design” blossomed after Gray found true love within herself, as well as the world around her. The singer-songwriter spills, “Perfect Design describes loving every part of your mind, body and soul as well as others. I believe we are all individually unique and special in our own ways. The world is a romantic place and love is the key to making it go round.” The track will fill your heart up with folk pop-influenced energy and a foot-stomping beat to sing and dance to unapologetically. Gray shares, “The song idea and melody came to me in the mirror as I was getting ready for a sister dinner date. I started singing perfect design around the house and played guitar as my sister, Brittany sang along. We would shoot lyrics back and forth, being super goofy and having a blast. These were some of my favourite moments in the creation. This song is dedicated to her. She’s one of my best friends. She’s always there for me when I need her and I love her so much! Our relationship stands the test of time. She puts a smile on my face every time she sings perfect design.”
Dirty pop singer-songwriter Fiona Grey begins a new era today, arriving with her eagerly awaited MNDR-produced single, “Sick Of It.” Inspired by the consequences of “filter era,” fake conversions and universal doom, “Sick Of It” is set to make you dance while simultaneously rolling your eyes at everything you would happily live without, available now at all DSPsHERE.
“‘Sick Of It’ was inspired by the era of filters and the ways in which society pushes us to try to all be the same version of beauty,” says Grey. “On a personal level it was me sick of playing into those toxic parts of our society. From an industry level it was me sick of the fake small talk, the watching everyone play a character of themselves. It’s a rolling my eyes-kinda pop anthem.”
As the professional basketball season comes to a close, basketball fans everywhere can continue their love of the game at home with the launch of the Crown Royal and Columbia Records gaming collaboration: The Crown Crossover – Music, Gaming and Culture Series. This six-episode series streams on the official Crown Royal Facebook page, featuring Columbia Records artists Quinn XCII, Joey Bada$$, CHASE B and more, playing NBA 2K. This unique partnership sits at the intersections of gaming, music and basketball, with each artist connecting and competing with top gamers, including iPodKingCarter, Aerial Powers, Erin Ashley Simon and Mike LaBelle.
During the weekly livestream series, a Columbia Records artist, two NBA 2K League players from the Detroit Pistons GT or Hawks Talon Gaming, and gamer will be discussing their latest projects and basketball, engaging with 21+ fans, and enjoying a Crown Royal cocktail responsibly. The first two episodes featured Columbia artist Quinn XCII, and fans will be able to watch the final four episodes with Joey Bada$$ and Chase B every Wednesday this month.
In addition to the Columbia Records partnership, Crown Royal has inked team deals with two official NBA 2K League affiliates, the Hawks Talon Gaming and Detroit Pistons GT. As part of these deals, Crown Royal will be working with each team to engage with fans at this exciting connection of gaming and esports.
“Our partnership with Columbia Records, the Pistons GT and Hawks Talon for The Crown Crossover livestream is another way for us to take our passion and love for the game of basketball and bring it directly to our fans,” said Nicky Heckles, Vice President of Crown Royal. “This weekly experience brings some of the league’s brightest stars, professional gamers and musicians together in a way we can’t help but be excited about.”
Following hot on the heels of lead single “Take 3”, cult LA indie-rock group Inner Wave today unveil a second track from forthcoming album Apoptosis, the beautiful and beguiling “June”.
“June” opens with the pastoral picking of an acoustic guitar, complete with the audible tweets of a singing bird. From here layer upon layer of fuzzing analogue synth chords, dry drum grooves and dreamy vocal harmonies are built – all underpinned by driving acoustic guitar chords.
Described simply as “a love song” by singer/guitarist Pablo Sotelo, the track’s chorus is mesmerising in its guileless sincerity: “I just wanna share the world with you // Show you all the things that I could do.” Sotelo further explains: “I had written this song on my acoustic initially. When I brought it to the guys it came together very quickly.”
Los Angeles based producer, artist, musician and writer Daniel Loumpouridis reached the career milestone of a certified gold record early in his career as co-writer and co-producer of Louis The Child’s single, “It’s Strange (ft. K.Flay),” garnering millions of streams and features on FIFA, Netflix, and Nissan, As a producer, Daniel has developed artists on Atlantic, KIDinaKORNER/Universal, Prescription Songs, Sony UK, and Modern Works. As a writer, Daniel scored the Netflix series Harvey Girls and co-wrote the title track for Nick Leng’s LP, LEMONS. Today, with over 3.5 million plays on Soundcloud and 1.1 million streams on Spotify, Daniel is gearing up for the release of his two-album artist project U and Us, with the first single “Me” landing on Apple Music’s New Alternative playlist.
Rising artist and tender pop creator, Zachary Knowles, shares his debut album, tendency to be a loner, today via FADER Label. In celebration of the release, Knowles also shares a new video for “life sentence,” out now, which was produced by Del Water Gap and Dylan Bauld (Halsey, The Neighborhood). Following the previously released singles “stranger to me,” “tendency to be a loner ” — co-written with Ashe, co-produced by Alexander23 — “dancing in the kitchen,” “carpool,” and “johnny & june” — co-produced by X Lovers, the experience of the album is finally here in full form — showing the range and depth of emotion from the innermost world of Knowles.
On the LP as a whole, Zachary Knowles says, “This album is about my introverted nature. I wanted to capture what my day-to-day looks like as far as emotions go. Most days, I just wanna be by myself. I’ll say no to things I know I’d have fun doing, just because that’s what feels normal to me. Other days though, I’ll go out, hang with people, etc, and I’ll have fun. I wanted the flow of this album to feel like the flow of my emotions. Some days I wanna be alone and some days I wanna get out. This album represents the highs and lows of that struggle, and hopefully, it connects with people who feel the same way.”
Ezra Jordan is an independant singer/songwriter from Toronto, Ontario. His music draws inspiration from Contemporary Pop, R&B, and Soul and he approaches songwriting with a focus on piano. Since his journey as an artist began, he has amassed over 250,000 views on YouTube, 5.5 million streams + on Spotify, and has charted on the radio in the US. Ezra’s most recent release, Cougars, perfectly encapsulates what made Ezra’s previous releases so special but at the same time signifies the closing of a chapter in Ezra’s career.
For his sophomore EP, Ezra will be transitioning over into a more real, raw and emotional sound that will allow his fans to dive deep into his psyche and authentic self. This will be a new Ezra Jordan that no one has ever seen or heard before.
Renowned Stockholm-based talent Lucas Nord returns with a new single through his Hans Göran moniker, ‘Girl’. The latest track serves as the fourth release from his upcoming ‘A Summer With Hans Göran’ EP, slated to release this month. It directly follows his prior singles ‘LIMONCELLO’, ‘FIKA’, and ‘GANG’ off the EP. The bouncy house track replicates the feel-good, warm feeling of dancing a summer night away. Out now via Nord’s very own Bisous imprint, ‘Girl’ is available to listen to across all streaming platforms.
STREAM/DOWNLOAD: HANS GÖRAN – ‘GIRL’ [BISOUS]
The infectious and groovy offering immediately opens up with a pulsating kick-drum, building with the vocals ‘Girl let’s make some memories.’ The track takes listeners through an entrancing and propulsive soundscape, gradually going through high and low cuts throughout the song. Exploding with energy, ‘Girl’ is tinged with bright synths and an irresistible rhythm. The feel-good tune is reminiscent of the feeling of a summer night out, maintaining a lively and bouncy ambiance for the duration of its runtime.
I wrote “Forever Yours” about that feeling you get when you meet your soulmate – you just know that what you have with them is going to last. This is one of the first happy songs that I’ve written, complete with a soft, jazzy and intimate atmosphere.
I really wanted to encapsulate the emotions of first falling in love…
When your eyes lock, your hands touch while walking beside them, your first kiss – that feeling of I’m falling in love and nothing else matters.
I love writing sad ballads, so this was a big change for me during the writing process.
“Forever Yours” has helped me find a love for writing positive songs as well.
Thank you for listening,
noelle
Atlanta-based singer-songwriter TARYN is sharing the official music video for her latest single, “Brand New.”
“Brand New” is about shedding regrets from the past and welcoming growth, vulnerability, and experience with open arms. The pairing music video was shot in Nashville, TN and was created with a small team consisting of director Joseph Wasilewski, assistant director Garrett Boiling, gaffer Richard Chilton, and choreographer Ysa Fernandez. Over the course of the video, the camera follows TARYN closely as she dances through her home, mirroring the intimate and autobiographical nature of the song. “I think the video does a beautiful job of conveying what the song represents: frequent change and the feeling of freedom in your own space, creating an environment for yourself that you’re comfortable with and that you’re proud to live in, that expresses who you are on the inside and out,” TARYN says.
Orchestrating their hostile takeover of dancefloors everywhere, today – NOPRISM – release their anthemic new single: “Animosity”.
Stream here: https://ditto.fm/animosity-noprism
WATCH VIDEO HERE
A track about the “joys and sacrifices of love” that’s synergised with a merciless groove that will take no prisoners, the Newcastle four-piece hit their synth/pop stride with a calculating strut.
“I’m always fascinated (obsessed) about the idea that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction, and the idea of love is no different. Very often you see people giving up important things or opportunities in their lives for the sake of love. But obviously it’s why we’re all here, and the positives that it brings is what makes us human.”
Recalling the world dominating highs of the Nile Rogers-produced Duran Duran years, “Animosity” taps into that winning formula of taut funky guitars, an intimidatingly huge electronic production, and an earworm chorus designed to eat you alive.
Inspired by the definitively super-camp vogue music that soundtracks the MJ Rodriguez/Billy Porter show ‘Pose’, the song was written as something of a distraction during the lockdown of last year. Turbo-charging those aesthetics with a radical makeover of their own design, NOPRISM soon realised they’d hit upon one of their most irresistible compositions to date.
“We decided to write a song for voguing to, but with our own imprint on it.” says Andrew. “Initially we put it on spotify briefly under a pseudonym and uploaded it to the BBC, who played it. We quickly changed our minds though and decided it was too good a song to just throw away, so we took it offline. This version being released now is a re-recorded and remixed version, with the added input of the full band.”
Bishop Ivy introduced himself as an alternative-pop songwriter known for his innovative music which mixed organic instruments with digital sounds, field recordings, electronica influences, and samples. Continuing to sharpen that sound, he now embellishes it with pop hooks, sonically adventurous production and autobiographical lyrics. Ivy’s focus on imaginative sound and sharp songcraft began in Boston, where he kicked off his career as a 14-year-old street busker on the neighbourhood sidewalks of Back Bay. Now based in Pittsburgh, where he studies music, electrical engineering and computer science, and with a number of releases under his belt, Ivy hopes to further his ability to manipulate music.
Inspired by boundary breakers like Bon Iver, Frank Ocean, James Blake, and Imogen Heap, Ivy has built his career upon attention to detail. He’s responsible for virtually every sound he creates, with his willingness to juxtapose synthesized sounds with raw, organic music being the driving force behind what he does.
Written a year apart from his previous track “tunnel vision”, “the park” is break up song 2.0. The knack for writing moving, authentic lyrics comes easy to the songwriter. Written from a place of retrospect, the tune talks of his healing period taking longer than anticipated, focusing on positive memories and beginning to let go of the pain and heartbreak. He explains, “The central metaphor is that I locked myself in those good memories I have, which is what “the park” represents. The bridge represents a realization of this and beginning of letting go, which coincides with a fitting change in the music.”
Swooping in with a ballad-esque taste, we’re given the beauty of simplicity with Ivy’s stunning falsetto vocal tone reminiscent of Muse’s frontman Matt Bellamy. In his true style, the backing vocals leave an echoing ripple effect before the upbeat, electro rush comes in through a restrained array of production. Including a creative range of samples, the young musician shares, “The hi-hats include my dad’s motorcycle starting up. The snare is me hitting a stop sign, and another snare is me smashing my skateboard into a wall. What is effectively the crash cymbal was a harpsichord some professor played at my school and I recorded a single note.”
Racking up over 1.5 million streams for his music to date and garnering support from publications such as Live Nation’s Ones to Watch, Clash, Flaunt Magazine, American Songwriter and Earmilk, Bishop Ivy is quickly becoming an artist to watch in 2021.
“Believer” is a mood-propelling, danceable track with gratitude at the heart of it, about how transformative it can be to have even one person in your life who expresses their belief in you.
Sometimes, more than advice or a friendly ear, you just need to hear someone say “you’ve got this.”
Have a listen to “Believer” via your preferred streaming platform.
There are a lot of emotional ups and downs trying to navigate your early career as an artist, and I think I would’ve lost faith in my own ability to do what I hoped if it hadn’t been for the stated belief of a few people around me.
Kodiak Arcade
It should come as no surprise that the Orlando-bred, LA-based artist is ready for his close-up. Despite the challenges of 2020, the last year was easily his most productive and successful year yet. He achieved his first Billboard Hot 100 hit with the Post Malone-featuring “Tommy Lee,” which has generated over 200 million streams to-date. His second single of the year, “Stuntin’ On You” featuring a scorching DaBaby, immediately followed and has generated over 80 million streams of its own thus far. Both tracks received special remixes, with SAINt JHN (stream HERE) and Tommy Lee (watch HERE) himself remixing “Tommy Lee,” and DDG and Dame D.O.L.L.A. joining Tyla on a new version of “Stuntin’ On You” (watch HERE). In addition, 2020 saw Tyla receive his first two Gold records, for “Tommy Lee” as well as his 2019 break-out “High Right Now,” taken from his debut project Heart Full Of Rage, with RAGER BOY’s “Stuntin On You” going Gold in 2021. Plus, he continues to approach a billion career streams and made his television debut, performing “Tommy Lee” with Post Malone on the Billboard Music Awards (watch HERE). “Stuntin’ On You” is featured within FOX Sports’ live sports franchises world-wide for all 2020-2021 seasons, while “Tommy Lee” appears on the latest edition of the wildly popular NBA 2K video game franchise.
NAHLI’s talent precedes her; her unique raw and sparkling approach to her music, style and life as an artist has been highlighted in depth via her features on tracks such as Professor Green’s ‘Bad Decisions’, Rude Kid’s ‘Please Don’t’, Crystal Fighters ‘Costa Rica’ and Conducta’s ‘Only U’ but as she flies solo on her new single ‘Something’s Gotta Change’, NAHLI’s level of talent can really be admired in its glory.
STREAM/DOWNLOAD: NAHLI – SOMETHING’S GOTTA CHANGE
In a thought-provoking statement, ‘Something’s Gotta Change’ epitomises who NAHLI is as an artist. It’s not just a single, it’s more than that, just as NAHLI isn’t just an artist. A spokesperson, an activist, a colourful array of talent, thought and lyricism, NAHLI is using her craft for purpose and ‘Something’s Gotta Change’ marks the start of that.
Understanding the catalyst of the creation, NAHLI explains, “The world is starting to allow triggering messages in film and TV series, more and more every day. We’re seeing more understanding of LGBTQIA+. We’re seeing more representation of race and colour. We’re broadening our minds. We’re no longer brushing topics like rape and racism and discrimination under the rug. The media is no longer turning their backs on women claiming to be a ‘victim’ or for ‘asking for it’ or ‘she wore provocative clothing’. NOW is the time for change. I want people to feel empowered by this track. You’re not alone anymore. This is a movement. This is my absolute proudest work.”
MUSIC VIDEO: NAHLI – SOMETHING’S GOTTA CHANGE
singer-songwriter Annabel Gutherz shares her new single and lyric video, “Remnant,” from her upcoming debut album ‘Loose Ends.’
“Remnant” is an emotionally poignant coming of age track. Atop Americana-influenced guitar and understated percussion, Annabel’s soothing vocals croon about lost friendship: “You were someone that I used to know / But where oh where did that girl go / Now you’re just a remnant of that dear old friend / Stuck in the body of Miss Pretend.”
An ardent and perspective storyteller, Annabel’s diaristic lyricism, honeyed melodies and full-bodied vocals take listeners on a journey as she writes from the heart with raw honesty and emotional conviction. On “Remnant,” she uses the personal as a vehicle into the universal, capturing the complex mutability of friendships as we move from adolescence into adulthood.“It’s a song about the evolution of a friendship from childhood to adolescence, and how the dynamic between two people can change as they grow… And sometimes grow apart,” Annabel says.
Montreal-based singer-songwriter Annabel Gutherz made her debut in 2018 with “Legends,” a philanthropic song whose proceeds are donated to education-based charities. After spending the past few years honing her musical talents at Berklee College of Music, Annabel is now preparing to share her debut album, ‘Loose Ends.’ The 11-song record is due out later this year and was co-produced by Dominique Messier, a long time band member for Céline Dion and owner of Studio Piccolo in Montreal, Quebec.
With a fresh new album on the horizon, SPEARMINT are pleased to present one of its brightest highlights: “Bundunyabba Blue”.
STREAM ON ALL SERVICES HERE || WATCH THE VIDEO HERE
A direct hit of starry-eyed positivity and disco-steeped nostalgia, “Bundunyabba Blue” is a guaranteed release of dopamine waiting to rush body, mind and soul.
Reunited with producer Rhodri Marsden for the track, it sees the band return to their timeless disco territory with sweeping string sections, twinkling keys and disco-ball flecked rhythms. Featuring the gentle melancholia of Shirley Lee’s discernable lead vocal coo, the frontman flexes every heartstring on “Bundunyabba Blue”.
A snapshot of the themes that course through their upcoming album ‘Holland Park’, its lyrics finds Shirley Lee lost in thought about David Bowie’s legacy, while reminiscing too about his father; a musician in a 70s rock band who never quite made it.
As Shirley explains:
“My father used to go to the cinema when he was away touring. When Dad got home, he’d sit with me and tell me about each of the films he’d seen, proper story-telling, usually in a lot of detail. This song tells of a film he saw as a midnight movie in New York in the 70’s. It was only years later, when I saw the film for myself, that I remembered what it was called: ‘Wake In Fright’. Then it struck me how much Bowie’s ‘Serious Moonlight’ persona and video for ‘Let’s Dance’ were inspired by the movie.”
Pop songstress Tabitha Nauser is back with ‘Won’t Stop’, a sultry but heartfelt slow jam which is equal parts classic soul and fresh R&B.
Created over an intense three-day session, ‘Won’t Stop’ is a refreshing ode to commitment, acknowledging its own musical lineage whilst remaining startlingly original. The evocative, echoed guitar stabs of the track’s opening blend seamlessly with contemporary beats and Nauser’s lush, soulful vocal lines. Building relentlessly towards a huge chorus of searing vocal hooks, Nauser makes a heartfelt avowal that “I won’t stop loving you”.
Speaking about the track, Tabitha shared: “Won’t Stop is about finding a passionate connection with someone, both emotionally and intimately. It’s about allowing yourself to fall madly in love and giving up all control to your significant other knowing that this person is going to respect and reciprocate the love that you need. I really wanted to have a track that represented how I felt. I realised everything I knew or understood about love before them, didn’t make sense. I was exploring this whole new realm of what I always wanted love to be like for me and it felt almost too good to be true.”
Natalie Claro is an alternative pop/rock/R&B artist based in Nashville, TN. She is the sole writer, producer and instrumentalist of all her music, taking complete creative control of everything she does. With a strong sound and style, Claro draws on a mix of eclectic influences from a wide range of genres – everything from Aretha Franklin, Billy Joel and Lady Gaga, to Hozier and Frank Ocean.
Her latest single “When Alcohol Tastes Like Juice” is a coming-of-age metaphor on the notion that when a cocktail is so sugary, you can hardly taste the alcohol. You may lose sight of reality and get more intoxicated than you planned. However, the consequences come later. When you spend an entire week on distractions instead of working on achievements, it can leave you so guilty that it truly feels like a hangover.
Claro created WATLJ over the entirety of the 2020 Covid pandemic, “Many people were in a nihilistic state, worrying creation was useless. We had no clue what to expect of the future. I realized I had spent the past few months partying each day since it brought a much quicker form of gratification than my long-term goals, and now I had no game plan.” The single narrates the need for balance, choosing priorities, and not giving in to that instant gratification without acknowledging the long-term effects. “I want to use this song to remind young people not to lose themselves in the process of making themselves. Finding joy is being grateful for the journey.”
The pop/rock tune enters with a minimal soundscape, allowing an emphasis on the lyrics and shining light on the powerful message behind the music. The track moves into a boom of howling guitar riffs and crashing drums before dropping back into a more chilled-out atmosphere, filled with godly harmonies. The ups and downs of the dynamics reiterate the sharp rise and fall of those temporary spikes of fun, ending in an abrupt, striking ending.
Known for her vibrant and energetic live performances, Claro adorns the stage with cartwheels, costume changes, mosh pits, drum solos, and more, creating a theatrical experience that audiences won’t forget. Claro has toured/shared the stage with acts like Plain White T’s, Halfnoise, Public, Hunny, Hawthorne Heights, and Grizfolk and performed at events such as Hollister’s High School Nation Tour 2019, SXSW, Sofar Sounds LA, Sony’s Balcony TV.
FME is digging into his portfolio of dynamic tracks and ‘Juice’ is next in line. Combining his London and Sierra Leone upbringing, he was able to birth a new experimental method of artistry that enables him to recall on his personal and unprecedented experiences.
Following on from his ‘Unruly (Freestyle)’ which accumulated 32k views after its GRM daily release. The Hoxton rapper FME has been on this journey since he was 10 when his musical passion sparked. Talent shows and poetry competitions have led to a masterclass in the UK Rap and Drill world. With roadblocks along the way, FME has spent time behind bars, but all these challenging moments contribute to the message he portrays.
The minor key instrumental created by Maniac Beatz is powerful and dramatic with an orchestral feel. String instruments take centre stage alongside a prevailing melody. The track is filled with liveliness but remains meaningful as FME’s lyrical flows pierce through the strong beat. A catchy chorus acts as the spine of the track with the gaps filled with his life experiences.
Set in urban underground areas, blessed with Lamborghini’s, dancers and fire, the masked rapper dominates from start to finish, revealing his performance proficiently. Trick shots with multiple FME’s in the picture helps to provide an enchanting perspective to the music video.
Committed to the game, FME is only warming up. ‘Juice’ demonstrates his freedom from genres and leaves his audience poised to what he has in store next. With influence from both sides of his cultural background, expect more lively flows in both English and Krio.
emerging production duo BOYOCA drop atmospheric club ready cut ‘Elasticity’, released via EMK – the new electronic music platform launched by Kartel Music Group – Stream ‘Elasticity’ here. The duo have also announced the EP launch party at their favourite Birmingham venue Hare & Hounds Kings Heathon October 14. The venue has been the source of many BIG nights out for the duo, watching their favourite DJs and Tickets available from Gigantic hereand See Tickets here.
The second in a series of tracks anticipating the release of their debut EP ‘He’s A Fool’, ‘Elasticity’ follows on the release of soulful cut ‘Bamboo Mask’, which served as a slick introduction to BOYOCA distinctive organic-drenched brand of electronic, soul-inspired music. While with the Apple Music supported ‘Bamboo Mask’, BOYOCA skillfully layered a sublime shimmering cut, perfectly balancing the organic and synthetic, with ‘Elasticity’ the duo traded songlike arrangements and guest vocals for a more peak-time club fare.
Talking about the track the duo say; “our tracks tip the scales in different directions between the dancefloor, radio-friendly, the organic and electronic. This one definitely tips in a club direction, we think it’s an end of the night kind of tune! Atmosphere that also hits hard!”
Cross-pollinating multiple strains of electronic music, BOYOCA are able to fold a wide array of influences – including Bicep and OTHERLiine – into a rhythmic, splashy cut brimming with textured electronics inter-weaved with real instrumentation. “String stabs are nestled amongst a languid breakbeat layered with long drawn out chords played on a Prophet 08 synth which lends the track it’s unmistakable BOYOCA feel,” explains the band. “You can hear guitars in this track as well but we’ve snuck them in the back door using them as textures with plenty of reverb and Lewis on the violining technique.
BOYOCA is the moniker of Birmingham (UK) based multi instrumentalists Tim Boyce and Lewis Carr, the duo crafts transformative electronic music with a tangible organic nature, combining real world sounds with electronic beats and grooves. Equally influenced by the dynamics of dancefloor music, as much as the human quality of live instrumentation, they tread the line between the decks and the guitars, the dance floor and stage, the electronic and the organic.
Diving deeper into their unique sound, BOYOCA explain; “the ‘green house’ sound is about distilling everything that’s dear to us in music – big beats, real instrumentation, songwriting and dance rhythms.”
With ‘Elasticity, BOYOCA prove their club skills with a bold, propulsive, syncopated rhythmic number.
Hannah Robinson is a singer-songwriter from the south coast of England, whose music blends her distinctive voice and soulful melodies with her nonchalant, percussive guitar style and lyrics which are rich with imagery.
With each release, her sound grows with expression and atmosphere and her latest single “The Well” is yet another example of her ability to create music that instantly grips the listener. Narrating suppressing emotions and inner conflict and pouring it deep into a hidden place inside you, the idea for the song came from the novel The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murikami. The songwriter was taken aback by one line from the book which read, “Maybe you’ve got this deep well inside, and you shout into it.” This sentence would replay in her mind and she would think about the image, relating it to her own experiences. Inspired by the likes of Laura Marling, PJ Harvey and Jeff Buckley, Robinson has a similar appreciation for lyrics just as much as the sonic appeal, unravelling, “I was curious to see if I could create a feeling and a narrative in this song using fewer words. I liked trying something more lyrically concise, I feel it made me especially selective with the words I chose.”
Featuring guitar from Scott McKeon (Sir Tom Jones, Lana Del Ray), piano from Paul Stacey (The Black Crowes, Tal Wilkenfeld, Noel Gallagher) and drums from Russ Parker (Thea Gilmore), “The Well” comes to life with heart-pounding drums which crash over the calm water of quiet, steady bass and a rising wave of glassy guitars. The fluid vocals are blissfully haunting and angelic, contrasting the grittier undertone and creating a fearsome and spine-tingling atmosphere. Robinson sings in a beautiful cry resulting in a somewhat euphoric feel, alongside the velvety vocals from Phil Brickell.
As a studio and live session singer, Robinson sings and plays guitar for John Illsley (founding member of Dire Straits), touring the UK and Europe.
South East London’s KABBA is back with a vengeance on her bold new track “Rather Be Single” – the lead single from her forthcoming EP Note to Self.
A massive R&B-pop banger (crafted by KABBA with MNEK) “Rather Be Single” hears the rising force reclaim her independence, both as an artist and a person. The light-hearted “Rather Be Single” music video – directed by Amaka Lin – sees KABBA serving glamourous looks, as she waves off two potential love interests to ultimately choose herself.
“Rather Be Single” is a reflection of an intense period of hardship for the artist and a five-year journey to find her identity, after significant relationships in KABBA’s personal life ended badly alongside her efforts to avoid being pigeonholed as an artist and navigate through music industry obstacles.
Sharing her thoughts on the inspiration behind “Rather Be Single”, KABBA explained: “I’ve literally been through the wringer, but I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s best that I be by myself for some time and discover who I am and just love myself a little bit.”
After the much-anticipated release of their latest single ‘Time for the Future’, Canada’s most exciting alt-pop band Fake Shark are all set for the release of their next track ‘Quicksand’.
Embodying 00’s drum patterns and indie-pop guitar chords, Fake Shark continue to bring futuristic flair and genre bending production, layered by front man Kevvy’s heartfelt and delicate vocals. Repeating the lyrics “I’ve been sinking in your quicksand I’ve been sinking so low, so low” Kevvy explains “Quicksand is a song about being trapped in a relationship with someone whose bad habits are not only destroying them, but you also.”
Synthpop deluxe outfit Monarchy are putting away their vocoders and customized guitars after 11 years of party services and an impressive list of accomplishments – from touring the world, playing Coachella to collaborating with Dita Von Teese. As a final hurrah, they are releasing Syzygy, one more soundtrack to dance the night away. Stream ‘Syzygy’ here.
The album features ten infectious tracks; the bedazzling dance pop banger ‘Half A Song’, the electronic-pop gem ‘Just Give Me Your Love’, the disco-influenced ‘Glow Vision’, are some of the highlights of ‘Syzygy’, an album which confirm Monarchy as one of pop’s most exciting acts.
The album is filled with positivity and confidence, mixing French touch, disco and synth pop to perfection. It’s a fitting goodbye. Leaving the way they entered: with everything intact, precise, concise and with deft execution. They came, they rocked, they conquered.
Monarchy launched anonymously in 2010 to a storm in a teacup on the blogs. They followed with singles on Neon Gold, Kitsune, before signing and leaving Universal. Collaborated with Dita Von Teese. Played Coachella, Lovebox, endless Spanish festivals, toured the US, Russia, across to South Korea, all over Europe. Released three albums and a cover album. Signed to Warners Music Spain. Left again. Remixed everyone from Kelis, Kylie, Lady Gaga, OMD, Jamiroquai.
Genre blending singer, rapper and multi-instrumentalist Treasure Bloom has an impressive track record of releases since his 2019 debut. For his new mini-album “Nostalgia” the artist is formerly known as Treasure metamorphs into Treasure Bloom and teams up Berlin-ba-sed underground boutique label Kommerz Records. Co-owners and brothers Lukas and Jonathan Nixdorff discovered the London-born and Hertfordshire-based creative genius through an artist friend in com-mon, Jay Lewn, and connected through social media months later.
The electronic experimentalist extraordinaire writes and produces all his music in his home studio. His influences range from Frank Ocean-esque progressive R&B to stripped-down acoustic folk all the way to his musical upbringings in metal. It’s this unpredictable, sometimes even contradicting nature that makes Treasure Bloom one of the most fascinating new artists in the UK. “Nostalgia” is the follow-up to “Nostalgia: The Prelude”, which came out under his former moniker in 2020. Whilst the latter was still self-released, Kelvin Beyioku decided to take the next step in becoming Treasure Bloom and joining forces with Kommerz Records.
The 6 track EP opens with the title song, an acoustic driving ode to friendship as a look in the past and evolves into a mystic second part describing an imaginary future wedding. On “Feelings, Pt. II” Treasure Bloom fabricates an intimate almost voyeuristic glimpse into the fragilities of a romantic relationship through his lush vocal performance combined with the instrumental co-produced by Tyler Turner (Juice WRLD, Lil Keed). Meanwhile on the self-care anthem “Stay Safe” he assures to protect himself and his relationships no matter what. The hard-hitting 808 drums and electronic production sticks out in the middle of the record and marks the energetic climax before “Raison D’être” brings relief. Composed almost completely on the classical guitar, Treasure Bloom uses his arsenal of emotion to ground himself and reflect his relationship on “Grow with Me”. “Stepping Out”, a song Treasure Bloom wrote after meeting an old friend whose newfound aura impressed him, closes the EP: “Stepping out is the release of all my ghosts. An acknowledgement that we all have the power to set ourselves free.”
Still being at an early stage of his career, he’s already got support from multiple stations on the BBC Radio circuit, received a lot of love from playlisters, blogs and tastemakers alike.
Hypnotic in sound and stereo, Sam Louis is digital adrenaline. Hanging in the balance of alt pop and r&b, he continuously curates feelings of loss and regret while still inducing euphoria. Based out of Toronto, Louis looks to provide more than just a stream or casual listening experience, but medicine for those who need it.
This week hip hop artist Amon released his newest single “All My Life”, an exciting co-release with 3-time Grammy Award-winning artist PJ Morton and Amon’s long-time collaborator Smooth Blaq. The song, a tasty gospel/hip hop crossover, is heard in the ending credits of the new Muhammad Ali documentary, City Of Ali, which hit digital retailers this week.
The creation of this song came from a place in Amon’s mind where he believes the only way to the top is dedication, commitment, and stopping at nothing to achieve greatness. Though Amon’s original intention behind the song had nothing to do with the movie, the song’s theme lends itself perfectly to City Of Ali, which showcases the challenges Muhammad Ali needed to overcome to become an iconic boxing legend.
“All my life…what a journey. When I made the song I had no idea this was for a movie or would be anything more than me expressing myself. When the beat came on, it was like Muhammad Ali was in the room with me. This is a song about triumph and overcoming everything that we as people deal with on a daily basis, no matter what color you are. Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee. Always strive to be the greatest that you ever did see. We can’t lose!”
Los Angeles-based indie pop singer-songwriter iamnotshane has released his new single, “Punch Me In The Face.” The song is his first release via new label, Snafu Records, and is available to stream everywhere now here + watch the official video here.
An airy slice of indie/electro pop putting iamnotshane’s alluring vocal and sticky-sweet melodies front and center, “Punch Me In The Face” is a plea for the real deal, no sugarcoating. iamnotshane describes, “The song is about needing tough love from a real friend, not the fake friends who tell you everything you want to hear. It’s a wake up call anthem.”
In true iamnotshane form, the video brings the song full-circle in a quirky, ironic, and (this time) rather painful way that you’ll just have to see to believe.
Sometimes we break up, and we know that we’re leaving some good behind. As we’re saying goodbye, we just want that one last moment of acknowledgment that it wasn’t all bad.
“Like The Very First Time,” the first single from my upcoming record, Weekender (out October 22nd) is a love song to a memory of what once was.
http://jeremyvoltzmusic.com/like-the-very-first-time
I co-wrote this track with soul and R&B producer, Beatchild, during my time in Canada’s Music Incubator’s Artist Entrepreneurship program. At first, we weren’t sure what the song was about, but inspiration for the song’s story struck a couple years later while I was rewatching an episode of one of my favourite shows of all time, Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
“Like The Very First Time“ makes a nod to the star-crossed relationship between Buffy and Angel, who are perfect for each other but can’t be together due to a convoluted plot-line involving an ancient curse. In the episode “The Prom,” they slow dance one last time and remember how much they care about each other before Angel leaves forever to LA (to be on his own show).
It wasn’t all just heartache, there’s some good we’ll leave behind.
This line really sums up the emotion behind the whole song, including why it is so bittersweet. You both know it has to end, but you still care, and there’s still a lot that you’re going to miss.
I hope that you enjoy this song!
Stay tuned for more new music ahead of Weekender‘s release.
Jeremy Voltz
Ellyn Woods is a multi-disciplinary artist currently based in Montréal. In addition to being a singer and songwriter, Ellyn has a degree in Fine Arts from Concordia and a passion for illustration and tattooing. Her art and music are a direct reflection of her love for nature and all things organic.
Ellyn received her first electric guitar when she was 12. She began learning her favorite songs by artists like Feist and Angus & Julia Stone, building her familiarity with the instrument and developing her own song-writing skills.
At age 18, she moved to Toronto. Immersing herself in the city’s diverse music and art scenes, Ellyn began sharing her original material and honing her craft as a performer and artist. Her raw and vulnerable material connected with audiences and fellow artists alike. Her ability to effortlessly weave her personal experiences into her music, combined with her soft voice and songwriting instincts, lead to several collaborative projects and showcases.
Favours are made up of Jacq Andrade and Alex Zen. They released their first LP, “Made to Wait”, in 2020. It was recorded at Candle Recording Studios in Toronto. Their song “Stowaway” was featured on Netflix and CBC Gem. Recently, Favours joined forces with Jacq’s brother, Mark Andrade and built a home recording studio in a former halfway house in Mimico. Throughout the pandemic, Favours tracked a ton of music in their home studio. Their EP, “Left Behind”, will be released in 2021 and it features a fresh dreampop, new-wave sound inspired by their shared love of the DIY post-punk feel of Robert Rental. The band collaborated with a strong team for this upcoming EP. They enlisted the talents of Broken Social Scene’s Brendan Canning who plays bass on the EP, the engineering chops of Tallies’ Dylan Franklin who engineered the drums and bass, and the mixing prowess of Alexandre Bonenfont.
Atlanta-based multiplatinum award-winning DJ, producer, songwriter, A&R, host, and businessman DJ Swamp Izzo unleashes a new single entitled “3 Cell Phones” featuring Future today. It marks his official debut as an artist for Cash Money Records after recently signing to the label. Get it HERE.
Assembled by Izzo, the track charges forward on a club-ready trap beat with raw energy. GRAMMY® Award-winning, multi-platinum superstar Future matches that energy with fierce verses before turning up on the instantly irresistible woozy hook. It stands out as a full-circle moment between these two Atlanta luminaries as Izzo served as Future’s first DJ back in the day and helmed some of his seminal early mixtapes.
The song paves the way for his forthcoming debut album—coming very soon.
Lenny is a folk-pop singer-songwriter from British Columbia, currently based in Montreal. Her vocal and lyric-driven melodies tell visual, emotional stories which explore the complexities of relationships, learning from her mistakes, and embracing her bisexual identity in her mid/late 20’s.
Her Debut EP, Personal Celebrity, is a mix of indie rock/pop, and stripped down ballads. It describes the arc of connecting with your inner power and intuition. From getting lost in relationships and losing your sense of self, to reconnecting with your intuition, learning to say no to what no longer serves you, and allowing yourself to live more authentically.
Established Stockholm-based triumvirate Moodshift return to the release radar with ‘Dang’ yet another highly-anticipated release from the innovative powerhouse trio. Their latest sonic offering marks their fourth original production of 2021, directly following previously-released hit singles such as February’s ‘Touch’, April’s ‘Heartless’, and May’s ‘Hit It’. Out now on Universal Music, ‘Dang’ is available to listen to across all streaming platforms.
STREAM: MOODSHIFT ‘DANG’ [UNIVERSAL]
The catchy tune immediately begins with a rhythmically pulsating ambiance, setting the tone for the rest of the atmospheric original production to follow. A low-pitched vocal cut is quickly introduced and is paired flawlessly with the driving beat and wholly infectious melody.
Pop singer-songwriter Tyler Shaw shares his final single “I See You” ahead of his newly announced self-titled album set for release on August 20th via Sony Music Entertainment Canada.
“I See You” is about embracing the inner beauty and true strength of those you love. Produced by Tyler and Martin Wave (NCT Dreams, Alok, Vince Staples), the new single puts the Canadian talent’s strengths as a songwriter and lyricist on full display as he pulls on the heartstrings of his listeners and reminds them that they are seen and heard. He notes, “I get a lot of fans reaching out to me saying my songs lift them up when they need it most, and I wrote this song for those fans. The ones telling me stories about my music getting them through hardships and breakups, or the ones sending me DMs asking me to like their comment so they feel seen. It’s a song to listen to when you need a reminder you have support, you are worthy, you are loved.,”
Canadian artist sunsetto is set to release a brand new single called, “downtown,” on August 6, 2021. Co-written & co-produced with Dylan Guthro, “downtown,” is a hard hitting, gorgeously hypnotic single that allows sunsetto’s melodic and distorted vocals to shine right through. With lyrics like, “We used to fly like paper, get high like planes, so why the f*** are you M.I.A?,” a nod to an old song that pushes forth the same sentiment of being hype, fun and celebratory in life, knowing that’s it’s okay to have fun every now and then, but in this case, still wanting to be responsible at the same time. Looking ahead, stay tuned for more music from sunsetto in 2021.
WaterTower Music has announced the August 20 release of the soundtrack to Warner Bros. Pictures’ action thriller Reminiscence. The feature film debut from writer/director/producer Lisa Joy (Westworld) is set for release in the U.S. in theaters and on HBO Max via the Ad-Free plan on August 20, 2021; it will be available on HBO Max for 31 days from release. The Reminiscence (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) features an original score from Emmy Award-winning, Grammy-nominated composer Ramin Djawadi (Game Of Thrones, Westworld, Person of Interest), and includes the new original song “Save My Love (feat. Amber Mark)” by Grammy Award-winning, multi-hyphenate, genre-blurring musician Lonr. The song, as well as a music video featuring Lonr. and one of the stars of the film, Thandiwe Newton (Westworld, Crash), were both released today.
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