‘Mississippi – Tennessee’ picks up where Lucie Tiger’s award-winning song ‘Gasoline’ left off. With southern-style rocking guitars, organ and piano that demand attention, plus driving drums, Lucie is getting in touch with her fun side.
It’s a lively take on Lucie’s love of southern gentlemen, being stuck between a rock and a hard place, and the unspoken desire of having a fast set of wheels to get you from one to the other.
Like the songs that inspired her, Lucie’s music is recorded live with all musicians together in the studio in Muscle Shoals. Written and performed by Lucie (acoustic guitar, vocals), ‘Mississippi – Tennessee’ features Bob Wray (bass), Brad Kuhn (keys), Will McFarlane (electric guitar), and Justin Holder (percussion), with backing vocals by Will, Brad, Bob’s daughter Valerie Wray Doubek and her partner Todd Foote, Lucie and her father, Rory O’Connor – it was a family affair! The track was engineered by Colin Lott, and produced by John Gifford III.
As an avid reader of liner notes, Lucie Tiger noticed a common theme running through her favorite songs – they were all recorded in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. The Allman Brothers, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Rolling Stones, and more recently, the Black Keys and Chris Stapleton, recorded alongside the ‘singing river’ in this picturesque small town in Alabama. When she visited Muscle Shoals before the pandemic, Lucie Tiger realized that she’d found her home, and you can now find ‘easter eggs’ in her songs that reference not just her love of the South, but of particular songs, places and people that have influenced her songwriting.
The last two years have been packed full of achievements and firsts. Lucie is the only independent Australian artist to have four singles listed on the MusicRow Chart in the last eighteen months, and she’s had four singles on the CountryTown Australian radio Top 40 Chart. Her 2022 album ‘Alabama Highway’ debuted at #14 on the ARIA Country Albums Chart (Australia’s Billboard equivalent) and #10 on the AIR (Australian Independent Record Label) Albums Chart, and ‘The Memphis Tapes’ debuted at #7 on the AIR Albums Chart.
Lucie Tiger dubs her unique brand of music as Country Rock with a Southern twang and a dash of Crossroads Blues. She’s been described as the “new darling of Australian country music” (The Music), “the embodiment of a Southern-infused country rock singer-songwriter” (CountryTown), and a performer who “puts the fun in country rock” (Scenestr).
For more information and to connect with Lucie Tiger follow her on
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | TikTok | Official
rising newcomer mlbacad¡ wows once more on her genre-defying, sophomore single “REAL” which would glisten on any playlist. A smorgasbord of sounds collide with subtle soul, dnb, traditional pop & alternative indie references to create a track with true individuality alongside mlbacard¡’s stunning vocals.
Watch mlbacard¡’s official half-video for REAL now; https://youtu.be/hUwVx4e4_DA
Playlisting? You can do so here
Speaking about REAL, mlbacard¡ explains “REAL came to me in a dream… I had fallen in-love with someone in a dream and when waking up I’d tried to collect the fragmented memories of this now lost love… a feeling that is just as real, as all experiences with love. The name of the song is the irony of what I felt being considered ‘fake’ in the context of a dream. In a broader spectrum, it manages to portray the complexities of love, due to the feeling that is ever fleeting, confusing and emotional. The song represents the many experiences individuals feel within the bounds of a relationship, the tumult and beautiful emotions that oxytocin creates.”
Today’s new release follows mlbacard¡’s debut song KETCHUP which features in various tastemaker press outlets including 1883 Magazine & FAULT. She cites her musical influences as Biig Piig, Metronomy, Brockhampton, 070 Shake, The strokes and countless others as influences who adds “Instead of doing my homework, I would be writing music or literally doing hours and hours and hours of research on new music playlists is my Holy Grail.” Bringing her own sound together, there’s an inquisitive sonic spirit and a compulsion to work through her difficulties via music in an honest way.
As an introduction to mlbacard¡, it shows an artist first and foremost obsessed with music and all its possibilities, but also with heart and a drive to own her own narrative. “I definitely want there to be a sense of humour to what I do because although life can be confusing, you might as well make a joke out of it rather than dwell in your own sadness which is what I’ve been doing for way too long,” she nods. “Now I’m wanting to reinterpret those things into something that can be for the better.
Birmingham dream-pop four-piece and indie stalwarts – JAWS – have announced a new EP ‘If It Wasn’t For My Friends, Things Could Be Different’ (out 15 September).
The band have also unveiled the EP’s lead track, “Are My Friends Alright?”, and have announced a UK tour for Autumn 2023.
STREAM “ARE MY FRIENDS ALRIGHT?” HERE || WATCH VIDEO HERE
Marking the break of a new dawn for the foursome, “Are My Friends Alright?” sees JAWS fuse fresh, feel-good guitar melodies with fuzzier moments of introspection that grapple with the gratitude and guilt that comes along with close-knit friendships. As vocalist Connor Schofield explains:
“I think I wrote this song just before Christmas. In the second half of last year I came out of a long-term relationship and this was kind of a response to everyone that looked out for me during that time, as well as me realising that I had to be there for my friends more than I had been. It’s just a general reminder that we’d all be f***ed without our friends, so we need to check in on them.”
Embracing evolution with a fervour, the new track takes a slightly more DIY approach than the band are used to. Cultivating a blissed-out blend of dazey dream-pop edged with a luminous twist that feels both as familiar as an old friend, yet refreshingly new, Schofield adds:
“The whole process of making this single and the EP has been totally different to anything we’ve done before in that itself-produced. I’m lucky enough to have a room at 123 Studios in Peckham, which led to producer Brett Shaw helping us out to get a great drum sound before I finished the record off in my own space. It was a challenge, but we’re super proud of what we’ve been able to create.”
Arriving as the first bit of new music from JAWS in over four years, “Are My Friends Alright?” arrives as the lead single to be taken from the band’s forthcoming EP ‘If It Wasn’t For My Friends, Things Could Be Different’. Self-produced by vocalist Conor Schofield in collaboration with Brett Shaw (Foals, Florence and the Machine) , the extended release was mixed and mastered by Grammy-nominees Mikko Gordon and Robin Schmidt respectively. Set to land on 15 September, JAWS explain of the new EP:
“Since our last tour — where we all caught Covid and ended up isolating for Christmas! — JAWS have been working on a lot of new music. Choosing to go a bit more DIY than previously and putting Connor’s lockdown MA in Commercial Music Production to good use, this project is entirely self-produced and afforded us the opportunity to really capture our sound.”
To mark the release of ‘If It Wasn’t For My Friends…’, the band will be heading out on a seven-date UK tour this Autumn, kicking off in Newcastle on 25 September. Dates below:
JAWS UK TOUR 2023
SEPTEMBER
25 NEWCASTLE The Cluny
26 GLASGOW King Tuts
27 MANCHESTER Club Academy
29 LONDON The Garage
30 BIRMINGHAM The Crossing
OCTOBER
02 LEEDS Brudenell Social Club
03 BRISTOL Thekla
The sensational Welsh talent Hannah Grace offers one final look at her forthcoming
Devoted EP with “Love Takes a While to Grow” – the latest single from the
tastemaker-approved vocalist.
First debuted by Grace in April exclusively at her sold-out London show at the
stunning St Matthias Church, the silky-smooth sounds of “Love Takes a While to
Grow” are the perfect backdrop for Grace to deliver personal, heartfelt lyrics which
discuss having patience with life and love – written by Grace with the Grammy
nominated UK songwriter Laura White.
Hannah Grace made the following statement about “Love Takes a While to Grow”:
“Growing up, I’ve tried to let life and love happen around me and be present in the
moment. Trusting that good things will happen is often the hardest part of growing
up, but good things, love, and long-lasting relationships take a while to grow. I wrote
the song with my good friend and exceptional songwriter Laura White. I am so lucky
to get to work with Laura – she brings a passion and spark to the writing process that
is such an inspiration to be around.”
“Love Takes a While to Grow” is the latest serving of Hannah Grace’s Devoted EP,
due out July 26 th via the buzzy indie label Frictionless Music as the official follow-up
to Grace’s critically acclaimed debut album Remedy.
Grace has teased the project this year through several well-received singles, such as
“Focus on the Good, “At 28” and “Silver Lining” – and further connecting with
listeners through spots on Spotify’s stylish New Pop UK collection, as well as support
from MTV UK and BBC Radio Wales.
With over 50M streams to her name, Hannah Grace writes songs to escape into,
with a unique blending of soul, jazz, folk and pop sounds. Famously infiltrating
mainstream consciousness with her power ballad cover of Fatboy Slim’s “Praise
You”, the track continues to serve as a gateway for fans to discover Hannah Grace,
having been used for multiple global ad campaigns, including Lloyds Bank in the UK
and most notably Lancôme (starring Julia Roberts).
Indie rock artist, Daniel Ellsworth is thrilled to announce his new EP WHAT to be released on July 14th. As a preview he has released the first single “Lost In The Rhythm” that is out now.
Daniel says, “First and foremost this was me wanting to make a late-night-living-room dance jam about leaving all the bullshit of the world behind and disappearing somewhere with the person you love, but writing and recording “Lost In The Rhythm” was also a personal exercise in simplicity and restraint. I wanted to limit the amount of instruments on the track, limit what the drums were doing, the vocals are the very first take…I wanted to do all that and see if I could still make something interesting. I’ve spent a lot of time over the years always wanting to add more layers and make rhythms more complicated, which can sometimes get in the way of the song. With “Lost In The Rhythm” there was no overthinking. The limitation was actually incredibly freeing.”
WHAT is Ellsworth’s first fully self-produced, self-mixed solo release. It’s infused with a genre bending, underground indie atmosphere and draws on influences as wide ranging as LCD Soundsystem, Anderson .Paak, and M. Ward.
Norwegian alternative R&B-soul singer-songwriter Beharie announces his fervent debut album Are You There, Boy? due out October 20 and available for pre-order now. Alongside the announcement, Beharie shares romantic, groovy love song “Deadly” out everywhere now. Plus, join Beharie here to find exclusive updates about the album, teasers, tour dates and more. With a warm, irresistible melody, the latest track “Deadly” sees Beharie apprehensively surrender to an all-encompassing crush and take a leap into love.
The forthcoming bright, wistful album Are You There, Boy? meets Beharie where he is today and invites listeners into a brand new, carefully curated sonic world. Through vibrant melodies and delicate, smooth vocals, the artist explores nuanced themes of love, self-doubt, desire, longing and pain with his heart on his sleeve. Over 12 tracks, the project follows a multi-faceted character who seeks meaningful connections, follows his curiosity where it takes him, and ultimately discovers more of himself. Delving into the album’s story and its main character, Beharie says, “This album conveys stories of a complex character. He is confident, emotional, insecure, curious, loving, and looking for connections. He is searching for both someone and himself. Longing for true connections with the world and with himself. He is confident, playful and daring, but also insecure and not always fully present.”
The album features collaborations by two rising singer-songwriters — Uly based in Dublin and Judy Blank based in The Netherlands. It was mastered by Guy Davie (Michael Kiwanuka) at Electric Mastering in London, UK.
“Deadly,” out today, captures the early stages of a new love, from the fear, to the curiosity, to the sweeping excitement. Gearing up to take a leap into love, Beharie says the tender tune is, “about falling in love and feeling obsessed with a person. It’s kind of scary, but also really intriguing. It came out of nowhere, and now you are ready and willing to really jump into it.”
Baltimore born, Los Angeles based prolific multi-instrumentalist, producer and vocalist Life on Planets joins the Fool’s Gold family to release his four track house EP, FEELS INTL. The Soul Clap and Seven Davis Jr. collaborator is a welcome addition to the Fool’s Gold roster, delivering a soulful take on house music that combines a bedroom feel with club-ready grooves. The FEELS INTL EP showcases Life on Planets’ anthemic late night vocals over thumping basslines.
Founded by A-Trak and Nick Catchdubs in 2007, Fool’s Gold has been a long-time haven for trailblazers of cutting-edge electronic music and hip hop. With alumni ranging from the likes of Kid Cudi, Danny Brown, and Run The Jewels, to Justin Martin, Baltra, and Tchami – Fool’s Gold has been a constant source of forward thinking music.
Speaking on Life on Planets joining the Fool’s Gold imprint, A-Trak remarks: “At Fool’s Gold we’re attracted to artists and projects that have a ton of personality. We’re so proud to add Life On Planets to our roster. He crafted an EP that makes you feel like you’re listening to your cool friend’s late night jam session.”
Our new single, “Sweet,” is meant to play on repeat.
The last few years have spun us all out and we need to remember “where the kids go” and make that our destination, together. “Sweet” is all about good love, good people, good times and breaking free from isolation.
Stream our anthemic antidote to loneliness via your favourite platform now!
Watch the official “Sweet” music video (directed, coloured, shot and edited by Dustin Seabrook) on YouTube, as well.
Musically, the song builds off of our Royal Castles catalogue with high energy and bouncy vibes. A call and response dynamic between the guitars and singing can be felt throughout. The addition of Dustin Seabrook (lead guitar) has helped to elevate the sophistication and precision in all things six-string.
Our sophomore album, Just The Hits, was released in 2021 and recorded at North Of Princess Studio with producer Zane Whitfield (Glorious Sons, Blue Stones). We have partnered again with Whitfield on an upcoming EP called Singles Night with “Sweet” being the first track we’re sharing.
It’s meant to make your feet bounce; it’s meant to be a party, and it’s meant to be a re-celebration.
Thanks for listening!
Jordan of Royal CastlesTikTok 🍬 Instagram 🍬 Facebook
JAD evades definition accidentally, intentionally. A young life spent caught between identities, JAD’s music seems to follow suit — not lost, per se, as it is unwavering in its right to exist in multitudes and in-betweens. Born in Canada to Lebanese immigrants, the implications of identity, both public and private, have been the unraveling and re-synthesis of this artist.
Having released an album, “Still Life”, in 2017, with songs such as “These Days” and “Knuckle Sandwich” catching the attention of an animator at CalArts, JAD provided the music to an animated short that played at the 2018 CalArts Producers Show in Santa Clarita, CA — quickly proving JAD’s music to be borderless. Followed by two singles recorded at the late Elliott Smith’s New Monkey Studio, JAD has taken a DIY approach with a bedroom setup, allowing him more room to experiment and develop while laying the foundation for a prolific future. JAD recorded, produced, mixed, and independently released “Don’t Let the Sun Set on Me” in April 2022, to high praise and a spot on Exclaim!’s Spotify playlist “The Eh-list!” amongst incredible Canadian talent, both emerging and veteran.
In May 2022, JAD spent a month in France as an artist-in-residence working on new material. While in France, he was invited to play in concert, marking his first European performance. He also took up painting – his work was selected to be kept as part of the gallery’s permanent collection. Coincidentally – or perhaps not at all – shortly after his time in Europe, while in New York, he was surprised to discover the work of an extended family member as part of the permanent collection at the MoMA, previously unbeknownst to him.
Northern Nights Music Festival has announced the phase two music lineup and revealed more cannabis details for its 10th anniversary, taking place in Northern California’s iconic Redwood Forest this July 14-16. With an eclectic music lineup, top-tier cannabis and wellness programming, and serene natural landscapes, Northern Nights remains one of North America’s most unique boutique festival experiences.
The festival’s dedication to discovering new artists continues to make it a staple of the West Coast festival season. Cook’s Valley Campground in the heart of the Emerald Triangle serves as the picturesque backdrop for fans to explore fresh talents alongside performances from some of the top names in electronic music.
With phase two, Northern Nights has added Belgian drum and bass legend Netsky, the genre-bending style of MiMOSA, the unique sounds of Santa Cruz act KR3TURE, and Denver producer NotLö as she continues her rapid ascension in the world of bass music. Phase two continues with rising names in the scene including ION, High Step Society, Spüke, Truthlive, Naughty Princess, Casmalia, and more.
East-London-based artist and creative Taloula flaunts a self-enlightened approach across her new funk-infused offering “DANGER” – taken from her hotly-anticipated debut album coming later this year.
Deftly exploring nostalgic elements of R&B, Soul and Hip-Hop, the rising singer, songwriter and producer displays a rare vocal poise, delivering high-grade attitude and playful psychedelia across her latest cut. Floating atop spacey synths and rolling basslines, flowering into brassy jazz breaks, the track – self-produced by Taloula with silky trumpet touches from Jackson Mathod (Stormzy, Jordan Rakei), feels like a call to attention that will continue the growing hype around this exciting multi-hyphenate talent.
Taloula celebrates self-realisation and exploration, her glossy vocal layering dissolving into airy break beats, opening pockets for her to fill with wisdom and a
refreshingly classy sonic aesthetic. Maintaining that poise whilst communicating the unnerving journey of vulnerability with an aim to inspire a new wave of free-thinkers, only serves to underline the quality on display.
Speaking on the record, Taloula mentions: ‘‘‘DANGER’ is about encouraging and celebrating the power that we all have within us. I used to live through the opinions of others, never listening to my inner voice due to fear and lack of confidence. It has been a long journey to understand that I have a voice, that I am allowed to have my own opinions. Now I can embrace fear with wisdom and enlighten my inner self with confidence and playfulness.”
rising Icelandic singer-songwriter, Hera Lind, shares her stunning secondary single to date “hungry lion”. Further to this release, Hera has announced her debut EP to come late September 2023.
Now at 21 years old, Hera wrote “hungry lion” during her later teenage years, as she was going through a tough time, feeling trapped and needing to flee the grasp of toxic people in her life. As a fully self-taught artist, she uses her voice and songwriting as a way to channel the emotions and energy that were once holding her back.
Hera expands on the track’s creation and meaning, affirming that “When I wrote “hungry lion” it was a way for me to express myself through song, when I felt I couldn’t express myself verbally. I didn’t realise what I was going through until I put my feelings into metaphors.”
Arriving onto the scene earlier this year with her debut single “365 Days”, this budding singer/songwriter is creating music bursting with sweet yet powerful melodies and creatively intricate lyrics. “hungry lion” is a departure from the folk inspired sound “365 Days” emits, which exhibits her great versatility as a new artist.
Although from Reykjavík, Iceland, all her songs are written in English as she grew up in London and Glasgow before moving to her home country at the age of 10. Today in her music, she takes inspiration from both the Scandi and English influences in her life.
21 year old Hera Lind uses her voice as her main instrument which seamlessly flows with the live recorded melodic sounds that feels both contemporary and timeless, taking the listener on a journey through major events of her life.
Keep up to date with Hera on Instagram and TikTok.
Japanese-Australian sibling electronic duo Lastlings release their new single ‘Gravity’, out now on RÜFÜS DU SOL’s Rose Avenue Records. ‘Gravity’ serves as the fifth and final single off their forthcoming sophomore album Perfect World, due out June 23rd.
Continuing to leave fans awe-struck with their intoxicating blend of sentimental lyricism and dreamy indie-dance production, Lastlings’ latest single is a breathtaking addition to Perfect World. Entrancing from start to finish, ‘Gravity’ builds with cinematic swells and textured basslines that irradiate Amy’s feathery vocals. Another fragment in Lastlings’ tale of lust and loss, ‘Gravity’ represents a period of romantic stasis, describing the longing for what once was and the inability to move on. ‘Gravity’ arrives with an official music video and serves as the final preview of Perfect World, following earlier singles ‘Out My Head’, ‘Noise’, ‘Holding Me Like Water’, and ‘Get What You Want‘.
Regarding the track, Lastlings said, “We had been stuck on finishing this song throughout the entirety of writing this record. Amy used parts of a song that she wrote years ago, for example, the very end of the track, “Now we’re on hold”. We asked Rinzen, who remixed a song of ours from our first record to add his finishing touches to this track. The driving gritty bassline is our favorite part of this song.”
With their forthcoming album Perfect World, Lastlings explore the mental and emotional hurdles of lost love. Like its predecessor, Lastlings’ sophomore album is deeply thematic and unconditionally personal, weaving a thorough storyline that transverses feelings of melancholy, insecurity and vulnerability. The album acts as a therapeutic soundtrack, processing the feelings that come with heartbreak similarly to the way one overcomes grief. It’s through this lens that Lastlings showcase the lyrical maturity and sonic growth that has captivated fans with each and every release.
Ken Gould is the mastermind behind Bedolina, an exciting new experimental rock project debuting out of Philadelphia. With engineering, production, and arrangements by Miner Street Recording experts Brian McTear (Kurt Vile, Sharon van Etten) and Matt Poirier (Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, So Percussion), the band offer an intriguing sound that weaves together experimental electronica, indie rock, and classic pop elements.
The vision for Bedolina transpired just months before the beginning of the covid lockdown, after Ken Gould brought four songs to McTear. Due to the pandemic halting society and the music industry as we knew it, the project experienced delays that allowed Gould to create an introspectively diverse crop of new songs. Cancellations of world tours allowed drummer Charlie Hall and Robbie Bennet (both of The War on Drugs) and Frank McElroy (Dr. Dog) to participate in a number of the aforementioned songs. On the upcoming self-titled LP, themes of surrealism, fascist dystopia, and the unsettling nature of the modern world are highlighted.
You know you have something special when you can hold your own with Keith Urban.
Flashback to 2014: new Slaight Music signing Roslyn Witter won a radio station singing contest that earned her a live duet appearance with Urban during one of the country music superstar’s concerts in Witter’s hometown of Hamilton, ON.
Joining the guitar-slinging Australian onstage to help christen the opening of Tim Horton Stadium for an impromptu rendition of “We Were Us” – his duet with Miranda Lambert – Witter did such an amazing job in front of 20,000 people that Urban kneeled and lowered his hands in a respectful gesture of worship. Later, he sent her a personally autographed guitar to express his gratitude.
“Getting to sing onstage with Keith Urban was insane,” Witter recalls. ” After that performance – there was no feeling like having the crowd sing and cheer for you.”
Witter not only treasured the memory: it whetted her appetite for more.
Flash forward to today: Roslyn Witter, a charismatic, distinctive and organically-nuanced tenor, is ready to claim her own country music spotlight.
GRiZ has announced his new boutique curated event ‘Ursa Major’, taking place at Pepsi Amphitheater in Fort Tuthill County Park in Flagstaff, Arizona from September 22-24. ‘Ursa Major’ will serve as GRiZ’s final curated event ahead of his upcoming hiatus.
A befitting addition to the cherished live ecosystem GRiZ has built over the last few years, ‘Ursa Major’ will host an intimate three-day experience for his devoted fanbase. Taking place in Flagstaff, a city recognized as the world’s first international Dark Sky community, ‘Ursa Major’ is the latest to join GRiZ’s lineup of celestial-themed curated events, coexisting alongside ‘Space Camp’ and ‘Another World’.
A boutique event with a limited capacity, ‘Ursa Major’ will combine an array of programming that aligns with the multi-faceted GRiZ ethos. In addition to the music, fans will be encouraged to explore workshops, art installations, and camp under the stars and amidst the trees of the lush Fort Tuthill County Park in the Coconino National Forest.
Throughout the weekend, fans will indulge in a trio of headline performances from GRiZ, with each night offering a different flavor of GRiZ’s diverse catalog. A paramount event with over a dozen opening acts, GRiZ has curated an intentional supporting lineup filled with idyllic vibes that align with the kaleidoscopic universe he’s created with his live events.
Encompassing the whimsical spirit of GRiZ’s live events past and present, the ‘Ursa Major’ lineup features familiar faces like experimental dubstep DJ Black Carl! and organic bass producer Of The Trees, as well as newcomers like house artist Never Dull, electro-hop beatmaker Motifv, and multi-instrumental up-and-comer McWavy.
Sign up for the Pre-Sale here:
https://griz.lnk.to/ursamajor
Artist Pre-Sale Begins on June 12th at 10AM PT
General On-Sale to Follow on June 14th at 10AM PT
Today marks the debut of RISE (Representation, Inclusion, & Support for Employment) Theatre, along with the launch of their new tool: The RISE Theatre Directory, a FREE national online directory promoting the visibility of individuals who work backstage, behind-the-scenes, and in support of theatre making. With a special focus on amplifying women, people of color and folks from underrepresented communities, RISE aims to bridge gaps amongst the theatre industry’s large diverse talent pool.
RISE Theatre was founded by Maestra Music and the Miranda Family Fund, with generous seed funding from inaugural partners: the Miranda Family Fund, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Jeffrey Seller, John Gore for Broadway.com, Jordan Roth, The Nederlander Organization, Thomas Kail, and UPS Foundation and through partnership with the American Theater Wing and The Broadway League.
“Staffing a theatrical production is often a daunting task and people often miss out on hiring incredible talent because they don’t know where to look. The RISE Theatre Directory aims to level the playing field for all theatre practitioners and give underrepresented communities a place to be discovered. From crew up to general managers, the RISE directory strives to ensure that backstage staff are as diverse as the stories we write for and tell on the stage. I couldn’t be more excited to see how this directory can help foster greater collaboration and make our beloved industry more equitable.”
– Lin-Manuel Miranda
“RISE Theatre is a national ecosystem built with a coalition of partnership that is representative of the diverse theatre-making that exists in all corners of the United States. By building networks of visibility and empowering practices of equity within our industries, we are providing the field with greater tools to build progress and sustainability.”
– Adam Hyndman (RISE Theatre)
“At Maestra, we have learned that the best way to combat the dangerous idea that skilled people who look like us don’t exist is to offer visible evidence that we most certainly do. I’m so happy that RISE Theatre is now set to transform the industry, filling our workforce with skilled artists and laborers who previously had not seen the path to their employment in the theater.”
– Georgia Stitt (Maestra Music)
With the release of his new single, “Up On Blocks,” champion of the underdog Chris Bullinger has launched the next chapter of his career. The song is inspired by the struggles of a man who has been dealt a difficult hand but continues to persevere. “This story ends about the way it begins with a slightly different attitude, which—like in life—makes all the difference,” Bullinger said. “Up On Blocks” is available now to stream and download on all digital platforms.
Bullinger’s new single, produced by Josh Halper and Harrison Luna and engineered and mixed by Drew Carroll, showcases his skillful and reflective songwriting, taking listeners on a path of self-exploration and growth. “Up On Blocks” represents the start of the second chapter of Bullinger albums captured at The Bomb Shelter in Nashville, Tennessee. It’s the first single since the release of True Rendition, an album praised by Americana Highway and Relix for being an auditory masterpiece that unfurls like a tapestry, woven with a diverse array of emotions and themes, with each thread adding its unique hue and texture to the musical fabric.
As giant music festivals around the world are fast becoming more identical in look, sound, feel and high-ticket prices, niche music festivals that mostly offer one-day fests of dedicated themes are now growing rapidly in popularity.
“1MX London Music Festival 2023” — scheduled this July 8, Saturday, at the new outdoor venue Dockyards in East London’s historic Royal Docks –- is one of the ultra-cool smaller festivals that are finding global audiences. A globetrotting festival brand highlighting Asian artists and has travelled to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, and Manila, 1MX made its debut in London in 2022 mixing Filipino headliners with U.K.-based Asian music artists. The very encouraging reception led to this year’s return to the city with a top-notch cast to perform live in one of the world’s hottest music venues.
Headlining “1MX London Music Festival 2023” at the Dockyards is the following combustible line-up of exciting Filipino and international artists:
- Ben&Ben – This talented folk-pop band from the Philippines has been wowing audiences since 2017 with chart-topping hits like “Kathang Isip” and “Maybe the Night,” to name a few. They were named Spotify’s Most Streamed Artist in the Philippines in 2020 and won numerous awards. With a unique approach to songwriting, all band members of Ben&Ben collaborate on each song’s lyrics and music. They combine electric and acoustic instruments, such as violins and guitars, to create their distinctive sound.
- Yuna – This award-winning Pop R&B artist from Kuala Lumpur known for her jazz-inflected style rose to prominence in 2008 with her breakthrough hit, “Deeper Conversation” which won Best Song at the Malaysian equivalent of the Grammys. She has recorded with international music names Jhene Aiko, Usher, and Pink Sweat$, played festivals such as with Lollapalooza, Camp Flog Gnaw, charted in the Billboard U.S R&B charts, performed on popular talk shows like Jimmy Kimmel Live!, and Late Night with Seth Myers, and produced hits that earned raves from big music industry publications.
- Moira – This multi-awarded singer-songwriter and the Philippines’ Most Streamed Filipina Artist for six consecutive years has been making it as one of the most successful Filipino singer-songwriters in recent years. She dropped hit after hit to the adoration of millions of fans worldwide. Moira’s achievements continued to soar as she held her first sold-out concert, “Tagpuan,” which featured her hit singles “Malaya” and “Tagpuan.” This year she was able to reach a milestone with more than 1.2 billion streams on Spotify, solidifying her position as the Filipina voice of this generation. Her album “Malaya” was certified 8× Platinum.
- Johnny Orlando – Toronto-born singer-songwriter Johnny Orlando is this generation’s rising pop superstar impacting a global music stage. Orlando has amassed over 2 billion streams, and a social media following of over 28 million+ engaged fans worldwide. At 20 years of age, Orlando’s music has generated over 2 billion global streams and acclaim from the likes of Billboard, Variety, Paper, Teen Vogue, and more. Along the way, Orlando garnered nominations for Breakthrough Artist of the Year & Pop Album of the Year at JUNO Awards, as well as three consecutive wins for Best Canadian Act at the MTV European Music Awards.
- Janine Berdin – She is a multi-talented Filipino artist who skyrocketed to stardom after winning the grand championship of the popular singing competition, Tawag ng Tanghalan, on It’s Showtime. In 2018, Berdin signed with TNT Records under Star Music, where she released her carrier single “Biyaya,” written by Chochay Magno. Her participation in the TNT All-Star Showdown at the Araneta Coliseum drew massive crowds and fanfare, cementing her status as one of the headlining performers. She also won the Star Music Listeners Choice Award and 4th best song for the Himig Handog 2018 P-Pop Love Songs for her rendition of “Mas Mabuti Pa.” Her success continued as her 2022 single with Adie, “Mahika,” peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Philippines Songs chart,
- Maymay – She is a Filipina actress, singer, host, and model who won hearts and emerged as Pinoy Big Brother: Lucky 7 Big Winner in 2017. After her TV debut, Maymay signed a recording contract with Star Music and launched her eponymous debut album at a star-studded Skydome event. The album received gold and platinum certifications from the Philippine Association of Record Industry. Maymay is also a fashion icon and an accomplished host. In 2018, she made history as the first Filipina to walk the runway during the Arab Fashion Week strutting clothes by the famous Filipino designer Furne One Amato of Amato Couture in Dubai. Today, Maymay is a rising star in the music industry. She has been nominated in the Best Asia Act category at the 2022 MTV EMA for her hit song “Amakabogera.”
- Clara Rosa – Born in the Philippines but raised in the U.K., DJ Clara Rosa’s multi-cultural upbringing birthed a unique blend of musical influences to her sets. Also an instrumentalist and music producer, her sets are characterized by a fusion of genres that include Amapiano, Baile Funk, Dance Funk House, UKG, Jersey Club and Latin Urbano. The sets bring the rhythms and melodies of her cultural roots with the contemporary sounds of the London club scene, creating an electric atmosphere that keeps the dance floor moving.
“1MX is not here to overwhelm you or overload your senses like in giant music festivals; 1MX is a compact Asian music bowl of a festival seasoned with global flavors, served in the right amounts,” said ABS-CBN Global Head of Events Joseph Arnie Garcia, also concurrently ABS-CBN Managing Director for Europe, Middle East and North Africa.
Garcia added: “Our format is straightforward: exciting established and emerging Filipino artists mixed with equally exciting established and emerging international acts. Combine this clear talent showcase with the local cultural offerings of food, drinks, and the like and you have a guaranteed memorable, delightful, connected and more fulfilling one music experience.”
To buy tickets now to 1MX Music Festival in London 2023, visit https://www.seetickets.com/event/1mx-london-2023/dockyards/2627943
Nashville-based pop singer and songwriter Thomas Day presents his new single/video, “Come Home,” out today on Arista Records.
In the same vein as his recent singles “MASOCHIST” and “VICIOUS,” “Come Home” showcases Thomas’ unique ability to channel his heartache into catchy, radio-ready hits. It’s an emotionally-charged ballad that flawlessly captures both the euphoria and melancholy that comes with moving on from past heartbreaks.
He adds, “This song is about coming to accept everything that has ever hurt you in your life, and realizing it’s ok. I wrote this about growing up and it has completely changed me, and for that I am forever grateful. It’s an emotional song for me with a lot of heart and I can’t wait for the person who listens, to heal.“
Capturing the hearts of millions with his heartfelt songwriting and powerful vocals, Thomas Day has quickly emerged as one of pop’s most exciting new acts. After taking off on TikTok with his captivating covers, he signed to Arista Records in 2021 and has continued to evolve into a fully-fledged pop star.
indie-pop singer and songwriter Cade Hoppe shares his new single, “Fool’s Gold.” In contrast to his recent upbeat singles like “Moon” and “Labels,” “Fool’s Gold” sees Cade getting in touch with his softer side. Infusing artful folk-rock instrumentation with slick pop melodies, Cade’s new song will have you bopping along while also putting you deep in your feels.
“This song is about uncertainty, inevitability, and where those two things overlap,” says Cade. “It’s this fear of striving for some sort of meaningful immortality, but ultimately fading into oblivion.”
Cade Hoppe made his debut in 2021 with the release of his first EP, ‘Tell Me How It’s Worth It.’ He’s kept the momentum going with his sophomore effort, ‘Everything That’s Wrong with You,’ and a series of buzzy singles. Working closely with co-writer and co-producer Harper James (James Bay, Eighty Ninety, Aaron Taos), Cade has continued to develop his artistry, delivering more confidence and clarity with each new release. With his steadfast determination and undeniable talent, Cade is well on his way to becoming an indie-pop mainstay.
Andrew Smith’s latest album, “The Garden,” is a captivating musical journey that invites listeners to immerse themselves in warm, nostalgic, musical bedtime stories. Produced by his Berklee classmate and dear friend, Jonathan Elyashiv, the album masterfully weaves together lessons of self-acceptance, fame, friendship, heartbreak, and romance, transforming them into enchanting musical fables for all ages. With his unique play on words and a touch of familiarity, Andrew aims to provide comfort to those seeking their true selves and inspire hope for those embarking on their own personal journeys.
Among the notable tracks on “The Garden,” “Gay Gay Gay Gay Gay” explores Andrew’s Catholic upbringing as he fearlessly creates his own prayer, aiming to eradicate shame and embrace liberation. In “I Don’t Wanna Be Famous Anymore,” he delves into the intricacies of celebrity life and reflects on one’s purpose in our ever-evolving social climate. “My Life Is A Movie” showcases Smith’s profound love for cinema and his childlike Spielberg wonder, offering an honest depiction of anxiety and the choice to live life fully.
“Wrinkled” takes a comedic approach as Andrew narrates his coming out process and the challenges he faced while residing in his parents’ attic during the pandemic. In “Rockabye 25,” Smith reminisces about his first relationship with a man amidst the chaotic backdrop of New York City. “Emoji Heart (Stephen’s Song)” delves into the complexities of platonic love, exploring the discomfort men often feel when expressing love for each other without romantic connotations—a struggle that transcends sexual orientation.
In “HomeGoods,” Andrew intertwines his affection for the store with a critique of consumerism, reminding us that material possessions and trinkets cannot fill the voids within us. “Husband Energy” exudes a joyful and liberating spirit, celebrating the lives of LGBTQ+ community members and their rightful place in traditional marriage. The beautiful track “My Neighbor Mariana” displays Smith’s vivid imagination as he weaves a captivating story about his upstairs neighbors based solely on observations made on the street and through the floorboards.
The album concludes with the soul-stirring finale, aptly titled “The Garden,” in which Andrew reflects on the dreams of his childhood that remain unfulfilled. However, he expresses gratitude for the unwavering support of everyone in his life who has joined him on this musical journey, inspiring him to find his own unique song.
“The Garden” by Andrew Smith is out now. Prepare to be captivated by Andrew’s heartfelt storytelling and melodic prowess as he invites you into his enchanting world.
Email: neill@outloudculture.com
