On the heels of widespread acclaim for her official debut courtesy of Billboard and more earlier this year, Charm La’Donna unveils a new single entitled “Westside” today. Get it HERE via Epic Records.
The rising rapper, artist, dancer, creative director, songwriter, VMA Award-winning choreographer, and proud Compton native adds her own contribution to the canon of West Coast hip-hop. She charges up tight bars with empowered lyricism drawn from real life lessons and accented by street wisdom and charm. With a knockout hook, she instantly captivates.
Watch the music video HERE via Vevo/YouTube.
Earlier this year, she made her introduction as an artist with the single “So & So.” Billboard described it as “tender,” while LA Weekly predicted, “plenty to look forward to as La’Donna makes the transition from behind the scenes professional to full-on musician.”
Projecting the voice of the streets from a perspective not heard often enough, Charm asserts herself as a beacon of resilience for girls in the hood and beyond. She continues to embody “Black Girl Magic” as an impressive multi-hyphenate. For years, she has impacted the culture from behind-the-scenes, choreographing and creative directing for the likes of Kendrick Lamar, Dua Lipa, and Ella Mai. Among many accolades, she appeared on Lamar’s DAMN. Tour and 2018 GRAMMY® Awards performance. Plus, she envisioned and executed the routines in Rosalia’s “Con Altura” music video, scoring the VMA in the category of “Best Choreography.”
Now, she steps into the spotlight and takes a ride towards stardom with “Westside.”
Patricia Bahia hits back at the current polarizing political climate and encourages unity on her new single, out November 16th, 2020.
Seventeen years ago, Bahia received a cancer diagnosis that immediately prompted her to start living life to her fullest. Shortly after, her first song was born. Since then, she’s been on a mission to use songwriting to inspire others to live their dreams. Her music has been featured on major television shows on ABC, CBS, CMT, and the CW, including hit shows like Pretty Little Liars, Riverdale, and Nashville. Additionally, her duo, 7th & Hope, has three songs featured on this season of Selling Sunset.
Still, her accolades continue to grow — she’s the Grand Prize winner of the Peace Song Awards and the West Coast Songwriters International Contest. She’s won two Positive Music Awards and came in as a finalist in the John Lennon Songwriting Contest. Now, she’s set to take the next step in her already incredible career with the release of her hopeful new single “Every Heart One Love.”
Written with Diana Rose Dawson, is a snapshot of the very world we’re living in. Bahia and Dawson turned their frustration with the increasingly hostile and discordant atmosphere of our country into a melodic call to action for love and unity. A melody that flutters with feel-good vibes, the track reverberates a sense of positivity and hope. Inspired by a conversation with Jason Mraz, Bahia took an earlier version of the lyric and turned it on herself, hoping others would also embrace the responsibility to be the change they want to see. Between the humming acoustic guitars and Bahia’s warm vocals, which guide listeners through a choir of harmonic togetherness, “Every Heart One Love” is an anthem for changing times.
Photo Credit: Destiny Keller
Emerging country star, Roman Alexander, has released Between You & Me, his debut EP featuring five songs including “Cocktail Conversations,” “Bad For Me,” and the title track and current single, “Between You and Me.” Click HERE to listen.
Alexander says, “The Between You & Me EP is me introducing myself to country music. Each song represents a chapter in my life. From girl troubles to falling in love, mixed with some heartbreak. It’s years in the making and I am so glad I can finally share it.” Learn more about Roman Alexander and the process of making Between You & Me EP in his mini documentary, “Made Me.”
Since the release of “Cocktail Conversations” and “Bad For Me,” Alexander has seen fans and press take notice, scoring write-ups on Country Now, American Songwriter, Billboard, Rolling Stone, and more, while appearing on Apple Music’s Country Risers and Spotify’s New Boots.
Roman Alexander has assembled a collection of songs that proves he’s paid his dues, honed his craft, and is now ready to stake his claim in country music.
Sivan is a famous Israeli soul and Hip-Hop singer, who debuted a new single called – Bright Lights in collaboration with Music producer HEVI LEVI and the Music label JOY GROUP. The lyrics written by Diana Golbi & HEVI LEVI.
Sivan was the feminine side in a famous Israeli Hip-Hop group called “The Takt Family”, and she provided powerhouse vocals to songs from their albums. At the beginning of her career, she contributed to the popularity of Hip-Hop music in Israel with her radio show.
Joy Group Founded in 2012, by the artist HEVI LEVI, as an Independent Music Label and developed into International Company that holds Record Labels, Musical-Technological Startups, Booking Agency, and Productions House. Joy Group promotes artists in the genres of: Pop, Hip-Hop, Dance, Techno and House, and leads a DJ school in Israel.
If you can believe it, it’s been fifteen years since we’ve heard anything new from The Deathray Davies. But, that’s not to say the members of the much lauded and loved garage rock outfit haven’t been busy creating, performing and yes the ever busy John Dufilho continued to create and put out records under his own ever changing rock n roll incantations such as the the absolute punk rock ripping CLIFFFS, the cinematic 60’s pop tinged Corner Suns, and the indie-folk of Cantina. Not to mention the collaborations and endless touring with such indie rock luminaries The Apples In Stereo and The Polyphonic Spree. Let’s just say the members of The Deathray Davies have used this time wisely and are now back with a new album, aptly titled “Time Well Wasted”.
I think we all have those moments where we wish we knew better, only I had the signs but chose to ignore them.
My new song is about my last relationship and how my friends all saw some warning signs that this person wasn’t for me. They all tried to tell me, but I was always super optimistic.
I chose to play dumb and continued dating her.
In the end… I guess I should have listened to my friends.
Hear “i should have listened to my friends” wherever you get your music below. View the official music video for “i should have listened to my friends” on YouTube, as well.
❌ https://kayladiamond.lnk.to/ishltmf ❌
Memories like poison liquor. There’s always that one drink that you can’t tolerate anymore. It gave you a really good time but then you had such a bad hangover that you never want to drink it again.
But as you take each shot, your friends keep warning you: slow down, girl, you’re gonna regret that. That was my past relationship.
Thank you for taking the time to listen! 🖤
💎 KAYLA DIAMOND 💎
Natalie Shay is a 21 year old indie pop/rock artist hailing from North London. The multi award-winning musician has established an ever-growing presence, media acclaim and a loyal fanbase through her explosive live performances and viral-worthy anthems, recognising her as one of the UKs hottest emerging talents.
Combining her youthful and charismatic aura with her classical training and time spent at the prestigious BRIT School, Shay has finessed the ability to produce undeniably catchy music, whilst maintaining a musical maturity. Compared to the likes of Haim, Little Comets and Fickle Friends, the Londoner has absorbed a similar energy and dynamic within her new music.
Shay’s latest five-track EP NAKED, saw the songwriter delving into the everyday experiences of a 21 year old, detailing relationships and life as a young musician. Title track “Naked” illustrates the breakdown in a relationship, knowing you have interest elsewhere but struggling to let go for the fear of being alone. The single sees Shay’s first time including brass instruments in her music, bringing the song to life through a vibrant saxophone solo.
The accompanying music video for “Naked” emphasises this idea of not wanting to settle down while your entire life still lies ahead of you. Filmed in the beautiful dunes of Camber Sands, we see Shay waking up on her wedding day and having second thoughts. Refusing to be anyone’s wife, she chases after happier times, trying to reignite them.
With her music continuing to pique the interest of notable publications such as Billboard, Clash and The Line of Best Fit, Shay has collectively amassed hundreds of thousands of streams, with her single ‘Yesterday’ being placed in Spotify’s New Music Friday playlist in nine countries. Natalie Shay is a force to be reckoned with.
This song is about taking responsibility through recognizing our own weaknesses and downfalls. Self-love is one of the most important practices we can engage in. “Therapy” is by far the most confident I’ve felt as an artist in delivering something that is authentically me.
Listen to “Therapy” on your preferred streaming platform now!
Thank you for your time,
Brooklyn-based indie pop artist Middle Part creates synth-laden music in the hopes of making you feel something. Composed with honesty and sincerity, his music takes inspiration from both 90’s and early Millenium alternative bands. Middle Part was born when singer Andrew Selkōw moved to the deepest parts of Northern Alaska to find himself, after experiencing a major meltdown. Living in a shipping container in the isolated vastness of the Alaskan wilderness, Selkōw ignited his love for literature and music, with the musician sharing, “Art is important, no matter how you decide to approach it. There’s no age or formula so just create. It’s the most healing form of therapy I’ve ever experienced.”
Middle Part’s upcoming six-track EP I Wish I Was Alive is heavily driven by his personal experiences, his shortcomings, his struggle with depression, dissociation and overall loss. It’s about grasping the concept of death, getting older, mental instability and self-reflection. Selkōw confides, “I wanted to make sure and let go of my ego before I pursued music again so that’s a big theme in this record as well as the inability to connect especially when you’re compartmentalizing everything all of the time. I wanted to be really honest and vulnerable in this batch of songs. I’m so goddamn sensitive and hate to show it, but it just bleeds through all of my music.”
His latest single “Busy” is the third single to be released off of I Wish I Was Alive. Detailing the songwriters interpersonal relationships and ego death, it is inspired by early millennium alt pop artists like Michelle Branch and Natalie Imbruglia, with a modernized sonic twist to the likes of Clairo. The stripped back “Busy” is set on a backbone of chugging acoustic guitars, breakbeats and sprinkled with synthesizers to achieve a sonically nostalgic song about the pitfalls of friendship in an attempt to signify that ego is unnecessary, and vulnerability should be the priority.
Selkōw confides, “A lot of this record is about ego, vulnerability, and dealing with loss. It’s also about finding a balance with your mental well being. Busy touches on that theme of letting go of your ego and being more vulnerable with the people around you. That’s the message I’m trying to get across, and I feel that ties in with the EP’s title, which is all about being more present rather than mentally checked out.”
Listening to Middle Part is like reading one of Selkōw’s journal entries and uncovering all the back and forth he has in his head on a regular basis. His honest songwriting grants people access to creating art in a safe space, admitting, “I just want people to relate. I so desperately want to connect and that might be the message.”
Growing up in a California household that had everything from Dj
Quik, Prince and Nirvana playing, Tony Black’s appreciation for
different music genres is evident in his work. Drawing inspiration from
artists like Zhu, The Neighbourhood and Jon Bellion, his clever flows
over the pop/edm beats help his fans experience the feel good vibes
apparent in his music.
Starting with his debut album “Where Do we Go From Here?”, released in October 2016, Tony Black has worked endlessly to develop and fine tuned his sound into his very own genre of music. With his follow up album “Love + Propaganda” slated to release at the end of 2017, the synergy of hip
hop, pop, and EDM, create an adept musical experience for the audience.
‘No Place’ gives us another glimpse into Layla’s upcoming EP, one which shows the talented artist’s lyrical insight and points to the further reaches of her promise.
Credit 〰️ Austen Ambraska
Thank you for listening,
With ‘Jungle’, Darshaan merges influences creating a gorgeously layered and expansive sound, that is a sum of his pop culture parts.
Photo Credit: Gloria Liang
Jade Hilton
Artist Yuki Dreams Again (Samuel Bocan Biddle) grandson of Philadelphia Jazz Icon Charles Biddle spent the first years of his career producing and writing music for others. He therefore secured song placements with DJ Carnage on his album “Battered Bruised & Bloody” (Mac Miller, Migos & Lil Pump) proving his writing and producing ability among a roster of heavy hitters. Yuki is a master at creating sound textures which carry you along the course of his debut single “Endlessly” featured in blogs Before the Data, Fashionably Early, Acid Stag, can be found on Spotify Playlists Fresh Finds, the Wave and Apple music CTRL-ALT. The 22-year-old artist is back with “Too Fast”, a song and video about the desire of finding, showing one’s true self. You will find in this song an audio clip of Frank Ocean saying: “Les gens paresseux remettent à demain ce qu’ils ne veulent pas faire aujourd’hui” which basically means that lazy people push back to tomorrow what they should do today.
“The lyrical content of the song is about not being able to be defined/captured in the same way more than once. “See me as you hear my Now, ‘cos you won’t hear it again, Not quite like this” For this music video, I wanted to capture this message and feeling in the medium of dance. The song is deeply inspired by afrobeat and African rhythm so I chose to work with Moshood Azeez, an incredible British Nigerian dancer, who got behind song and perfectly translated its emotions into movements. The video was shot on the famous Hackney marsh football field which contains around 82 pitches. The staggering number of goals appear like an elaborate minimalist installation interweaving and overlapping in different ways depending on your point of view. I wanted to manipulate and capture this in the film as a backdrop for an incredible dancer. I didn’t want it to be overly complicated. I just wanted to focus on the dance and the setting”.
No stranger to prodigious acclaim across music genres spanning from Hip-Hop to Gospel and R&B to Afrobeat, Grammy Award-winning super-producer, songwriter, entertainer Bongo ByTheWay makes significant Q4 wins with his most recent productions on Ty Dolla $ign’s Billboard-charting project Featuring Ty Dolla $ign with “Status” and “Everywhere;” R&B sensation DaniLeigh’s “My Terms” featuring PARTYNEXTDOOR and “Last Night” off her recently released album, Movie; Sevyn Streeters sultry, tropical banger “Kissez” featuring Davido and the heavy-hitting, chart-topping single “Gifted” by Cordae featuring Roddy Ricch.
Bongo has aided in creating an array of the most regarded music we have received in this generation — creating a track record for seamlessly fusing genres, styles and proficiencies that have remained unparalleled since his emergence on the music scene. What the key to his refined talent, an ear for music excellence and budding legacy, you may ask? His dynamic upbringing; being of Nigerian descent and more. Bongo has seen a multitude of successes creating profuse amounts of hits, working alongside industry leaders and creating sonic-excellence only he is capable of producing. Consistently creating bangers across all genres of music that separates him from your standard creatives, this is only the start to his budding legacy as he continues to forge a blueprint for future producers following his path.
Keep up with Bongo ByTheWay
WEBSITE: https://www.bongobytheway.com
IG: @BongoByTheWay
Jimkata are a three-piece anthemic, synth-washed, electro-rock band based out of Ithaca and Los Angeles. With a triumph of swirling analog synths, infectious pop hooks and candid lyrics, Jimkata have built a distinct sound which has been resonating with listeners across the country.
Friends since middle school, Evan Friedell, Aaron Gorsch and Packy Lunn infuse Jimkata, (named after the so-bad-it’s-good 1985 gym-fu caper Gymkata) with both an adventurous musical streak and relatable lyrical themes. Mixed in with the modern synth sensibilities and hard driven indie rock are influences drawn from the likes of Motown, singer-songwriters like James Taylor and even old country songs, where storytelling and a quick turn of phrase share priorities with melody and the beat. Jimkata have concocted an unusually rich and rewarding mix and one that’s evolved naturally.
After taking a two and a half year hiatus following the release of six studio albums and the successful building of a vibrant, grassroots fanbase, Jimkata are preparing to release their next album, Bonfires. The 10 track album is set for release as a series of singles every month with an accompanying visuals and merch line. Thematically, Bonfires touches on poignant themes of uncertainty, being in limbo, and looking for an anchor of hope in these trying times.
Bonfires is set for release Spring 2021 worldwide.
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https://twitter.com/Jimkatamusic
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photo credit: Naserin Bogado
Also featured on the EP is fan-favorite release “Sad Faces” which comes at a time where we all need to take a moment to pause for a mental health check. The songwriter behind mega-hit “Be Happy” by Dixie D’Amelio continues to step into her own, her slick vocals eclipsing over a magnetic drumline that has you hooked instantly and positions her as not only a force behind the scenes but as a welcomed face in the incredible squad of artists who are sharing ‘sadgirlpop’ with the world (à la Julia Michaels and Sasha Sloan).
Continuing an unprecedented run of one anthem after another, Los Angeles-based multiplatinum-selling producer and DJ trio Captain Cuts return with a new single entitled “Stuck In My Head” [feat. AJ Mitchell] today. Get it HERE via Epic Records.
On the track, keys glow just beneath intimate verses as a glitchy bounce shuffles right into a hypnotic hook. Mitchell’s voice echoes on the chant, “You’re still stuck in my head,” as the production twists and turns through warbling feedback and a dancefloor-ready break. Once again, Captain Cuts surprise with an unpredictable soundscape complemented by a show-stopping vocal performance from AJ Mitchell.
About the song, Captain Cuts said, “We worked with AJ last year and instantly clicked with him. Seeing as his voice takes every song he’s a part of to a new level, we were stoked he was down to collab on this.” AJ added, “I’d be lying if I said this song isn’t going to get stuck in your head. Sorry not sorry. I hope you enjoy our new tune ‘Stuck In My Head’ with my boys, Captain Cuts.”
Be on the lookout for the premiere of the music video very soon.
Tessa Kaye is a Philadelphia born, Los Angeles based pop artist. Armed with vibrant individuality and a fresh approach, the effervescent artist delivers infectious pop soundscapes, with raw and relatable themes. Having grown up in Utah with her adoptive family, Kaye struggled with the difficulties that being a black girl in a mostly white community faced. Raised in the Mormon church, she made the decision to leave once she reached early adulthood, moving to the West Coast to pursue her passion. Now, with a plethora of life experiences under her belt, Kaye wants to tell her story.
Following the successful release of her debut single “Fools Gold,” which was added to numerous Spotify editorial playlists, including New Music Friday U.S., Kaye unveils the intoxicating “You Know Who You Are and I Hate You.” An honest song narrating her lifelong struggles with severe anxiety, the songwriter gets vulnerable. She explains, “although it could be about a romantic relationship as well, I’m personally talking to my anxiety about the ways it has debilitated my life at times.” The song is a reminder that it’s perfectly ok to have days when you’re down, we’re all human and we’re allowed to be soft, feel delicate or just not ok! Kaye confides, “I’ve had a lot of people try to tell me that my anxiety and how much I feel is a weakness. It’s taken a lot of self work for me to realize that there’s a strength in allowing yourself to simply be as weak as you feel in a moment. Black women in particular are always looked at as ‘strong black women’ and while yes, that is true, there are many sides to us.”
“You Know Who You Are and I Hate You” is some of Kaye’s most authentic work to date – her sincere lyrics emit an almost healing feeling and reassure that everything will be ok, if we just hold on a little bit longer. Sonically, the single features floating melodies, a moody waltz and comforting raindrop sounds, embodying the perfect thunderstorm and essentially a safespace to be your most vulnerable self. She succeeds in crafting a genre-defying sound incorporating contemporary R&B, indie pop, and electronic.
Having garnered over 100,000 streams on Spotify alone, Tessa Kaye is quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with.
https://www.instagram.com/tessa_kaye
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UK-based singer/songwriter De’Borah Powell is reintroducing herself to her fans with a new collective ‘De’Borah Powell and The Benefactors’ after a 5-year hiatus that allowed her to craft a new sound. Her single ‘Love Can’t Be Controlled’, set to be re- leased on November 20th, showcases a powerful and charismatic performance from the lead singer, accompanied by her musicians.
The hypnotising repetitive lyrics echo as positive mantras to hold on to, when facing challenges in one’s love life. This indie rock-infused track was recorded and produced by De’Borah herself during the first lockdown. Always challenging herself, this expe- rience honed her musical skills, pushing her to work with her band virtually to record the drum, electric guitar, keys and string parts.
Speaking of the song, the British singer-songwriter states : ‘I wrote this song at the end of a prolonged season of unrequited love. At the time I was feeling offended that things hadn’t gone the way I thought they should, and wanted to control and manipulate the outcome. So the lyrics express the fact that whether love is requited or not (or turns out the way you think) hold on to it lightly, don’t operate from a place of control/entitlement but of openness – because that’s what love is in the end – an openness to life, possibility and believing the best of every person or situation.’
After attending The BRIT School in 2008, De’Borah began publicly performing. It was here that the Croydon-born artist gained the opportunity and experiences to explore her innate love for words and melodies that had materialised at a young age. In the years that followed, De’Borah released 4 EPs and performed extensively as a solo acoustic act, gracing venues such as the Jazz Café, Fairfield Halls, Southbank Centre and festivals including Greenbelt, Secret Garden Party and Wilderness. Inspired by musicians such as John Mayer, Joni Mitchell, Alicia Keys and Keane, De’Borah’s initial sound was also recognised by BBC Radio London, BBC Radio 6 and Radio X.
Today, De’Borah Powell and The Benefactors present a philosophy that fuses com- posing and performance with values of friendship and community. A strong multi-laye- red sound fueled by heartfelt lyrics that is sure to conquer the hearts of many.
‘Love Can’t Be Controlled’ by De’Borah Powell and The Benefactors is out now on all digital platforms.
Ebony Buckle is a London-based singer/songwriter. Taking listeners on a whimsical leftfield-pop journey with her complex harmonies and imaginative storytelling lyricism, Buckle sings about universal themes of romance, broken hearts and depression, to more poetic themes of disgruntled mermaids, lonely whales and joyous, hypothetical alien invasions.
Buckle’s latest single “You’re Loved” is a calming and encouraging song that we all need in our lives at the moment. Have you ever wished you could send a message to yourself, just to let yourself know that you are ok? Well that’s exactly what the songwriter has done, sending a reassuring message to her future self. Buckle confides, “This song is something I wrote one winter when I felt really lost and alone. The song just came out and it was like I had needed to hear that voice saying ‘it’s ok, you are ok’.” Sonically, “You’re Loved” builds and builds, elevating until we’re hit with a release offering a sense of freedom for the listener. Through layered harmonies, soaring string arrangements and atmospheric percussion, the emotional song delivers a comforting feeling.
Ebony writes and records her music with musician and producer Nick Burns (also her Husband). “You’re Loved” was no exception. The song is written in a call and answer style – the verses are full of doubt while the choruses respond as if another voice is speaking. Buckle sings, ‘take a breath and breathe it in, you’re loved, you’re loved, you know.’ Reminding us to keep holding on, the songwriter shares, “I hope this song finds people wherever they are and reminds them that they are loved. This is my hug in song form.”
The singer and actress has performed in The West End and on screen for the BBC. Her role in George Gently as a Geordie folk singer gave her the platform to perform her vocal talents and her music from the show reached number 1 in the iTunes World Music Charts. Buckle continues to have her original music receive extensive airplay from numerous BBC stations across the nation, garnering her considerable blog attention. Every day, through her lyricism, music and poetry, Buckle continues to feed our imagination with her beautifully kaleidoscopic music. Come along for the ride – her unique world is completely enchanting.
Ramengvrl, one of South East Asia’s most dominant hip-hop figures, releases her debut album Can’t Speak English – out via EMPIRE. Marked by the release of the Latin-textured “Vaselina”, empowering “Look at Me Now” and the deeply poignant and stylistically contrasting “The Emo Song”, the
chart-topping Indonesian rapper now adds seven additional tracks to her repertoire with Can’t Speak English. Contrary to the album’s title, Ramengvrl can clearly speak English, but behind the tongue-in-cheek title are themes and messages that come from a place of intimacy and honesty. Operating under a hopeful, idealistic banner, Ramengvrl pours her soul
and unfiltered thoughts to deliver a message of hope, acceptance, and perseverance to listeners. Drawing from her own life experiences, Can’t Speak English encourages listeners to be whoever you want to be and fight the societal pressures or your own insecurities to achieve your dreams. The album cohesively provides a fresh perspective and enthralling lyricism, underpinned by Ramengvrl’s raw, honest storytelling.
‘Cards On The Table’ Piano Versions sees HEBE stripping the five track EP LISTEN TO CARDS ON THE TABLE EP HERE back to its bare, beautiful essence, with the artist’s evocative vocals layered over the chords of a Grand Piano and a Wurlitzer. The EP was recorded entirely live with the help of pianist and vocalist Ruben Hein, who adds the mellow timbre of a Rhodes piano to ‘Hunting Me’, uncovering the core of the “crisp yet soulful piece of electro-pop” – as defined by Clash Magazine, while his vocal duet with HEBE gives a complete new meaning to the longing lyrics of ‘Out of Sight’.
‘Cards On The Table’ explores the vulnerability and doubt that come with the early stages of a love relationship, the perfect ending to HEBE’s personal journey, told now in a more intimate and personal way than the original versions could ever do. Gone are the electronica-drenched sounds on tracks like ‘Out Of Sight’ and ‘Hunting Me’, the piano versions uncover the pure core of HEBE’s lyricism.
‘Cards On The Table’ shows the sheer depth of HEBE’s artistry, channelling her craft into a stirring and beautifully honest collection of songs.
Kéren grew up in a multi-cultural environment influenced by both Western and Eastern music. At the age of seven, she began her musical theater career and learned the guitar as a teenager. After studying at the Berklee College of Music, Kéren moved to the West Coast to pursue her music career. Having collaborated with a variety of artists and producers (including working with Steve Hackman), Kérens journey has taken her across the globe, touring and performing with symphony orchestras including San Francisco, Pittsburgh, Nashville and Oregon.
Her latest endeavour is the new six-track album In Form. The basics of the album was recorded at Dreamland Studios, a mystical converted church in the Catskill mountains of New York. Taking production inspiration from the likes of Björk and Kate Bush, the duration of the album contains somewhat experimental, yet consistent production. You can hear her multi-cultural influences flared amongst the tracks. The collection of songs range from more upbeat, acoustic, folky sounds, with some containing tropical flutters – to more diverse sounding tracks. The album is a real journey from start to finish, an exploration of emotion and growing; glistening with an incredibly diverse range of dynamics displayed in her wonderfully unique vocal tone. It’s the result of an awakening, with each song narrating a pinnacle defining phase and revelation in the artist’s life.
“You Without Me” is phenomenally spiritual. Kéren’s voice flows through like a wave of energy describing her life experiences. The album brings a sense of healing, through listening to In Form you are taken to the heavens with soft guitar, gentle piano that sounds like rain and stunningly vulnerable lyrics. Vocal elements throughout the album consist of ethereal builds and releases, some almost like a cry of emotion fused with her flawless vocal runs that sound effortless.
“Talisman” showcases plucky instrumentation and oscillating soundscapes, setting the backdrop for Kéren’s warm, celestial vocal tones. The song cascades with ethereal, minimalist moments, broken up by infectious, cinematic melodies, which will remain stuck in your head all day.
Then there is “Ever Learn”. Twinkling synths and fun, upbeat rhythms emit a toe-tapping effect. The intoxicating song will have you grinning cheek to cheek.
“Somewhere Else to Go” rounds off In Form with a warm ray acoustic guitar and vocal intimacy. Listening to her music is like embarking on a journey of self-discovery, gnosis and healing. When writing the songs, Kéren says she began her healing journey often in deep inquiry of Self, continuing, “Relationships ended, realizations were made as well as epiphanies and prayers. Those are encapsulated in this album”. Full of moments of goosebumps, it certainly is a masterful piece of work.
As well as her solo project, Kéren took an initiation into meditation practices and healing modalities, using her musical skill set to accompany and deepen her practices. Working with soundscape design, indigenous/world instruments, singing bowls, synthesis and more, Kéren continues to explore music and sound as a means for connection, community, discovery, catharsis, and healing. In Form is currently available worldwide, via Audio Network/eOne.
Rising, critically acclaimed songstress Mali-Koa finally shares her debut album Hunger, which she releases today alongside a stunning music video for the title track. Across twelve incredible songs, Hunger is a remarkable journey documenting experiences of love, loss and self-empowerment through Mali’s deeply poetic songwriting and mature pop sound. At the heart of Hunger is Mali’s full-bodied, raspy and powerfully emotive vocals, which have seen her connect with tastemakers and millions of fans across the world who have been patiently waiting for Mali’s album since she captivated them back in 2018 with the buzz track “Honest”. Opening with the ambitious affirmations of “Hunger”, the album swiftly segues into
the brooding synths and thundering claps of “Get It Wrong”, “Sorry” – currently at 1.5M+ Spotify streams – and the glorious “Revolution”, a smooth gospel-tinged track featuring the soulful Ella Q and Sing Choir (Prince, Whitney Houston, John Legend, Charlie Wilson) for a truly spiritual sonic experience.
After establishing himself as an artist over the past few months and cementing his sound with the release of 4 new tracks, Scribz Riley has released his debut EP Wish Me Luck with lead track “Introduce Myself” feat. KWN & JADA. Get the EP HERE!
Hailing from East London, but residing between London and LA, Scribz has worked with artists such as Khalid, H.E.R., J Hus and Cardi B over the last few years, establishing himself as an acclaimed award-winning producer and songwriter, notably achieving two GRAMMY Awards® along the way.
With an edgy sound that blends multi-genres with R&B and Rap, Scribz introduced himself as an artist in his own right this year with the singles “East Side,” “Impress Me” feat. Headie One and “Mandy.” Having clocked up almost 4 million streams, he has received playlist support from the likes of 1Xtra, been tipped by the likes of Complex, Hypebeast, Elevator, Flaunt, Notion, GRM Daily and has just been announced as a VEVO DSCVR Artist To Watch 2021.
Building an impressive and unique body of work through each release, Scribz recently shared new song “On My Sleeve” feat. Kaash Paige and leads the release of his EP with new track “Introduce Myself” feat. KWN & JADA. With an upbeat R&B beat and soulful vocal flow, it’s another unique delivery alongside newcomers KWN and JADA and the perfect lead into the EP.
“My first ever project. It’s a collection of my thoughts and experiences over the past couple of years. I hope there’s something in there for people to relate to in some way,” says Scribz. “The title Wish Me Luck is basically what it says on the tin – although I feel confident in the music, in the early stages there was a lot of uncertainty for me on how it would be received, especially with making the transition of being a producer to becoming an artist. I guess it is me moving forward into the unknown, so wish me luck…”
Photocredit: Bonnie Nicholds
Continuing an impressive run in 2020 with tens of millions of streams and widespread critical acclaim, platinum-certified Boston-born and Los Angeles-based rapper BIA unveils a new single and music video entitled “Skate” today.
Get it HERE via Epic Records.
She freezes the beat in its tracks with quotable lines such as, “Let ‘em hate, soak it up, let ‘em marinate,” and “I’m the coldest bitch I know. I’m still freezing in a mink.” The accompanying short visual directed by Jon Primo remains just as cold. BIA and a gang of ski-masked ladies armed-to-the-teeth menace with palpable intensity and runway-ready style. It might just be her iciest excursion yet.
Watch it HERE on VEVO/YouTube.
The track arrives on the heels of “Same Hands” [feat. Lil Durk]. Not only did the recent single rack up 3 million Spotify streams with 1.2 million YouTube views on the music video, but it also received plugs from UPROXX, REVOLT, and more.
Earlier this year, BIA made waves and turned heads with the single “COVER GIRL” which was released in the midst of the pandemic. It’s already amassed over 8.5 million streams worldwide and 357K YouTube views on the quarantine music video. Meanwhile, Nylon included it on “Soundcheck: The 10 Best Music Releases of the Week” and wrote, “ Bia is cool, calm, and unbothered on the fiery “COVER GIRL”.”
Tafari (pronounced Ta-far-eye) Anthony is a Toronto based artist whose music blends Pop, R&B and Soul. He is an artist who embodies the spirit of the modern musician. Not just a musician, but a creator. Known for his sleek vocal tones, sultry melodies and music which oozes with personality, Tafari leaves listeners in awe – somewhat apt considering his name means “He who inspires awe”.
His influences range from artists like Prince and John Legend, to more contemporary artists like Lennon Stella and Charlie Puth, among others. Often described as a mix of Sam Smith and MNEK, Tafari creates deeply emotional songs that resonate across generations. “All of these artists are creating music that is pop in its own right, but also so different from each other”, shares the musician.
Having taken a break from music in 2018 to focus on creating new material which explored his own personal soundscape, Tafari returned early 2020 with the release of his pop anthems, “Centerfold” and “Live in a Dream.” Now he unveils the full six-track EP The Way You See Me, a collection of songs with Tafari following his true vision despite people’s hesitation. He confides, “When I think of this project and what it took to get here I can’t help but remember the challenges. I had spent about a year chasing and begging people to work with me. To no avail, I spent that year living off of “yeah totally, I’ll get back to you”, and of course they never did. I knew I had the vision in me, and was fed up with trying to challenge the way they saw me. My previous work may not have fit into what’s “cool”, I was this thick black gay man doing this thing that wasn’t contemporary R&B, but yet I oozed soul from my voice.”
Having found influence in female powerhouse vocalists such as Seinabo Sey, King Princess and Alicia Keys, Tafari delivers a classic vibe, but through a modern approach. The Way You See Me sees Tafari being unapologetically himself. “I feel as though this whole process has been about challenging the way people see me. Breaking the stereotype of it was really about not getting stuck in my precious work and being free to explore the various facets of me. It was about being open and honest about my stories, and quite frankly owning my queerness in my way, and again not cater to what kind of queer people wanted me to be.
Tafari has seen success with his music garnering acclaim from the likes of PAPER Magazine, Gay Times, Billboard Pride and MTV to name a few. He has been nominated for a Toronto Independent Music Award and receives regular airplay on CBC Radio, with one of his singles being named one of CBC’s Most Influential Songs of 2016. The singer has also performed alongside Shangela (RuPaul’s Drag Race) and has performed at Toronto’s Dundas Square and Massey Hall.
Nashville pioneers of “rad dad rock”, Ghost Town Remedy, today share their debut full-length, Dry Spell, and well… something’s definitely up with these southern indie kids. While Brooklyn bedrooms ring with cathedral reverb and waves of delay, the south is bringing back crunching power-pop riffs. While L.A. does whatever the fuck it is they’re doing with synths over there, the south is beating the everloving bejeezus out of their drum kits.
It’s no secret that Nashville’s musical landscape is shifting with the encampments of bearded plaid-draped snotty rockers setting up across the Cumberland River in East Nashville, BUT it’s still the land of big open chords and choruses to hold onto.
Ghost Town Remedy specialize in a wry, crushingly-honest, punky power-pop. Lyrically, they tie together topics as disparate as computer gaming, tragedy, seasonal depression, weed, Taco Bell, and the friend zone. What allows it to work is that they all serve to paint a picture of the years leading up to now. From TJ Maher and Steve Lane’s deeply rock n roll first gig at a Christmas pageant in their native northern Virginia, through the devastating loss of TJ’s younger brother, through grief and recovery, to their re-locating and re-juicing in Nashville alongside Jordan Winborne and Rich Ridgell. Wrap this journey up in harmonized crunchy guitar lines, tightly layered vocals, and a rhythm section that could pin you to the back wall of a bar, and you’ve got their Dry Spell album. In Nashville, they’ve built a studio sound that captures the punch of their live set, the sweeping highs, and lows of the topics within, and perhaps a little bit of the sweat dripping off an East Nashville dive.
Toronto-based post-punk project Peeling share the spacious and punky single “Dread”. A track that multi-instrumentalist and songwriter Anna Timoshenko describes as “a fitting anthem for 2020. It’s about being restless, uneasy and distraught in your surroundings. Spiralling into feelings of impending doom that are beyond your control.” With biting, crisp bass guitar driving alongside Timoshenko’s vocal melody, and backed with punchy drums, the track sets the table for the release of Peeling’s debut full-length, Worshipper. “Dread” follows the darkly poetic single “Ego Death” and the coolly-detached lead-off single “Suck”.
While Timoshenko has always been the songwriter behind Peeling, in the time between these releases the cast of musicians involved has undergone a notable transition from a collaborative effort between Toronto scene veterans Jimmy Tony Billy (Dilly Dally), Denholm Whale (Odonis Odonis), and Alejandro Cairncross (Golden Dogs) into a vehicle driven exclusively by Timoshenko. The impetus for this shift is found in Timoshenko’s deepening exploration of music production and time spent away from her hometown. While traveling in recent years, she began to experiment with a mobile recording setup and Worshipper began to take shape as a solo project. The crunching/intricate guitar lines and gritty drive that ran through Peeling’s previous EPs Rats In Paradise (2016) and 7 Years Of Blood (2017) are still here on Worshipper. However, in a suitably 2020 manner, they’re dialed darker, and sparser, than ever and backed by beats that weigh as heavy as anything Peeling have ever made.
John Driskell Hopkins today announces new album Lonesome High and shares the single “Missing You All, All The Time.” The track is a reflective ballad that takes stock of Hopkins’ years spent on the road as a member of the Zac Brown Band. Written with songwriter and good friend D. Vincent Williams (“I’m Movin‘ On” by Rascal Flatts, Ty Herndon’s “Hands of a Working Man”) the track is honest and tender as it acknowledges the burden that the life of a professional musician can place on those close to them. Hopkins explains “ Over the years, the touring regimen has continued to improve professionally, but we find ourselves away from home more and more frequently. It is very common for all of us to miss our family, and this tune is all about that. It starts with a piano driven music box dancer feel in the beginning and progresses through a very harmony rich vocal stack throughout the choruses. This is the one that my girls sing to me the most.”
Western Canadian based group Ghost Woman features singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Evan Uschenko, Guitarists Travis Salty & Nick Hay, Bassist Jon Lent and drummer Eli Browning. As multi-instrumentalist for groups like Michael Rault and Leeroy Stagger, touring the world over supporting the likes of King Gizzard, La Luz, Meat Bodies and Los Lobos, Uschenko spawned Ghost Woman in 2016. Retreating to an abandoned farm house in Diamond City, Alberta for 2 months, a self-released self-titled debut album was produced and dubbed directly and strictly to custom made cassette tapes.
Anne, If (Ghost Woman’s sophomore release) is a far cry from 2016’s debut. The songs were written and recorded over a 3 year period and with the maturation of the group now more evident, the record touches on Garage, Krautrock and pure-psychedelia. Self recorded in almost any room that was available, the 11 song album spans a multitude of emotions and a wide-range of sonic pathways.
Ghost Woman has ritualistically timed their releases to fall on the eves of the full-moon. Anne, If, to be released on Oct 31st, 2020 will be no different.
https://soundcloud.com/victorypool/06-the-end-of-a-gun
Photo Credit: Apryl and Dave Stead
Canadian country pop artist Carolina East gives us all the feels on her heartbreaking new single ‘All The Things’ out today on all digital platforms.
‘All The Things’ is the 4th single to be released from Carolina East’s new album Soaked in Whisky, which will be out in May 2021. A song about a failed relationship, ‘All The Things’ examines the loss you feel for everything that will never happen because of a break-up.
“‘All The Things’ is about all of what could have been with a past partner,” says Carolina. “I wrote this song about a relationship that didn’t work out, and for the best.”
A creation of the maritime elements, Carolina East is a vibrant, bold, songstress from Newfoundland and Labrador, who proudly wears an eclectic tapestry of musical influences, from soul to country, to pop. This year, Carolina East won the MusicNL Country Artist of the Year award, received a nomination for ECMA Indigenous Artist of the Year, and she recently joined the Sirius XM Top of the Country competition as one of eight competing semi-finalists.
Carolina East’s new single ‘All The Things’ is available now on Spotify, Apple Music/iTunes, and other digital retailers and streaming services worldwide. For more information, please visit: carolinaeastmusic.com
Stripped and raw, this new single is from Empty Paradise, due for release next year. I co-produced and wrote the entire album alongside Craigie Dodds (Amy Winehouse, Gorillaz), and collaborated with various writers including Joey Little (Lorde) and Illangelo (The Weeknd).
We booked out the Dairy Studios in Brixton, England for 3 months, and locked ourselves in the tank. Had the projector running the whole time and would throw on cinema classics in the background. The Wrestler completely resonated with us, with its universal feeling that you are losing everything. At the time, I had a ton of pressure coming from all sides, so in a way “Streets to Nowhere” is a love letter to myself.
Est-Her
fresh off the announcement of being named Amazon Music’s Breakthrough Artist of the Month, Toronto R&B songstress Savannah Ré makes her highly anticipated debut with the release of Opia, out now via Universal Music Canada, the country’s leading music company. An evocative collection of songs she nurtured and perfected over the past three years, Opia celebrates the strength found in vulnerability. “In order for me to get the body of work that I wanted to get, I had to dig deep. I had to do the work,” shares Savannah Ré. “I want to let people see me and connect with my music but for that to happen, I have to be my authentic self and that comes from introspection – it takes a lot of time and maturity to do that.”
The nine-track EP is the product of a prodigious songwriter whose natural talent has flourished from self-growth and in-studio collaborations with elite talent including her mentor, Grammy Award-winning producer Boi-1da who, along with YogiTheProducer (Kehlani, Jessie Reyez, Joyner Lucas), is credited as Executive Producer of Opia. Additional collaborators on the EP include longtime Savannah Ré supporters Allen Ritter (Cardi B, Kanye West, Rihanna, Travis Scott), Akeel Henry (Ty Dolla $ign, Shawn Mendes, Roy Woods), Marcus Semaj (dvsn, Snoh Aalegra), Varren Wade (Ella Mai, Jennifer Lopez), Jordon Manswell (Mariah Carey, Daniel Caesar), Ozzie (Raphael Saadiq), Marcus Allen James (Ne-Yo, Ludacris) and Kyle Christopher.
Celebrated rock musician, Mike Skill, lead guitarist of The Romantics, is ready to bring listeners back to 1970’s Detroit with the release of his new solo rock single “We Got Your Rock’n Roll”. The single uses descriptive lyrics to replicate Skill’s real-life experiences as a young rocker, hustling to create a name for himself in Detroit’s rock ’n roll heyday. “We Got Your Rock’n Roll” features drummer Brad Elvis (Skill’s Romantics bandmate) and Grammy-award winning producer Chuck Alkazian (Eminem, Soundgarden). The single is available now on all digital platforms.
Coming from humble beginnings in his native Detroit, Skill’s new track is reminiscent of the days when he first started out in his teens writing songs and practicing with his band in their storefront rehearsal space. After a 40-year long career in the music industry, Skill remains loyal to his roots as a punk rocker who refused to play the Top 40 “Hits.” “We Got Your Rock’n Roll” is a testament to his loyalty.
Skill recorded the track in Detroit at Pearl Sound Studios with his producer, Alkazian. On the track, Skill plays the guitar, bass and sings lead with him and son, Mick, on backup vocals along with Elvis on drums and Alkazian on keyboards.
Photo-Credit-Jesse-Nakano
Yes Nice is the brainchild of Scott McKellar and Nathaniel Wong. They have been writing and recording songs together since 1998. Now as they enter what some would describe as the prime of their lives and what others would describe as their lost years, they are still writing and recording music together releasing albums every so often as they feel inspired as Yes Nice.
Kingston indie rockers The Wilderness did the ultimate version of turning lemons into lemonade this past summer. Instead of being upset that they can’t play live shows and tour because of the COVID-19 pandemic, they decided to take it to the studio and record a live EP.
The result is Live at the Bathouse which features live versions of select songs from their recently released album, Until Tomorrow. The EP is set for release on December 4th with the first official single ‘Fire and the Wolves’ out today on all digital platforms. Watch the video here.
Leading up to the release of Live at the Bathouse, The Wilderness have been rolling out weekly live videos of the tracks featured on the EP via their social media platforms. With 3 released so far, the videos capture the chill, creative vibe of the live recording sessions at The Bathouse studio.
“It was lovely to be at The Bathouse in the summer,” says guitarist Sacha Lansky. “We’d spend the evenings hanging out on the pier, and Jonas and I would go fishing throughout the day. A stark contrast to the cold and icy months when we recorded the full album.”
Photo Credit: Johann D’Souza
Vancouver musicians Matt Storm and Ivan Hartle are excited to announce the release of their new collaborative single ‘More To Find’ out today on all digital platforms. Watch video here.
The story behind ‘More To Find’ is a serendipitous one because Matt and Ivan didn’t set out to create a collab track. In fact, it kind of happened by accident.
“I’ve been producing and recording Ivan’s music for over a year now, and he showed up at the studio one day with a long list of ‘to do’s’ for his songs in progress,” says Matt Storm. “We both sat there feeling a bit overwhelmed with the tasks ahead, so we plugged in a Wurlitzer keyboard and started jamming. Ivan started playing a riff that caught my attention that he had written it the week before. I quickly laid down a percussive rhythm on the body of an acoustic guitar, a technique I’d been toying with for a while, and it set the foundation around the keyboard. Once we had that, Ivan simply said ‘Is this our collab track?’ He could sense I was itching to get on the song. Riding the wave of inspiration, we organized melodies, wrote lyrics, and recorded the entire song in that one day.”
‘More To Find’ has a soul-influenced, laid back vibe perfect for Sunday morning playlists. But despite its chill mood, the song’s deeper meaning is a bit more heavy.
“‘More To Find’ is a song about soul searching, coming to terms with your past, and embracing the uncertainty of your future,” says Ivan Hartle. “Matt and I have similar musical tastes, so this collaboration was long overdue, and it came together with a level of spontaneity and inspiration that’s captured in the recording.”
“War With My Mind” is the second single from Crimson Apple to release in 2020. Made up of four sisters from Hawaii, Crimson Apple is an alternative indie rock band that fuses their signature, epic, cinematic dark-pop with a wide variety of inspiration from the alternative, indie-rock, K-pop, and J-pop scene. “War With My Mind” explores the back and forth one goes through when a romantic battlefield suddenly comes into play. After dominating TikTok in 2020 and acquiring over 1M fans, Crimson Apple will be performing their new release virtually for the first time on November 28th – tickets are available HERE.
Glitter Mag, Popular TV, Earmilk, and now Ian Ewing have all thrown their support behind VALE, the fiercely talented vocalist and songwriter from Barranquilla, Colombia. Building on the infectious melodies and stand-out vocals of VALE’s original song “without you,” Ian Ewing adds his signature, laid back vibe to create a refreshing remix as a send off before a relaxing holiday break. For a track that explores the feeling of absence from loved ones during these isolating times, this collaboration hopes to help fill that bridge and connect fans from all around the world. VALE is quickly establishing herself as the leader in a new generation of Colombian pop artists and has more collaborations on the way.
“I feel like it’s the perfect song to listen to while driving, on the beach,” says VALE. “This remix was so fun to make along with Ian. It’s got such a chill and pretty vibe and I hope it brings comfort to whoever gives it a listen!”
Total Brutal is the new indie pop solo project from Los Angeles based singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Emily Moore. Moore is known as a professional touring musician, having shared the stage with the likes of Grammy award-winning band FUN, Børns, Ella Vos, X Ambassadors and many more. With the goal of spreading positivity and self-empowerment, Total Brutal has an ethos of standing up for yourself in order to be heard and seen, facing fears head on and being comfortable in your own skin.
Her latest single “Egypt” is an 80’s tinged song, reminiscent of Phoenix meets Fleetwood Mac. Oozing with soaring harmonies and warm, muted vocals, the funk-fueled track shimmers brightly, creating the ultimate dance-worthy anthem. “Egypt” narrates trying to get the feeling back of being a kid and the excitement of what the future holds. Nowadays we live in fear of the uncertainty, wanting to bury our heads and hide ourselves away. Moore confides, “I constantly need to remind myself to play more and lighten up. It’s easy to get lost in the seriousness of life but I want to go through life having fun and viewing everything with curiosity.” The sun-soaked track succeeds in lifting spirits, certain to put a smile on your face from the very get go.
Inspired by strong female artists, Total Brutal is determined to help other young women make their worth known and their voices heard. She shares, “It took me a really long time to understand that I am allowed to speak up, have opinions and speak directly. I’m starting to realize that I can be myself and be liked and professional all the same. I want to help foster that adventurous spirit and confidence in young women!”
neillfrazer@hotmail.com
