NYC-based entrepreneur and social media influencer Piper Phillips just released her debut single, “Growing Pains.” “Growing Pains” is a sparkly, disco-influenced pop track, released just in time for summer. The song follows in line with Phillips’ social media presence. Like much of her content, “Growing Pains” is a motivational track about self-improvement and achieving goals. It discusses the winding road of personal growth. It’s a song to listen to remind yourself that you can do anything you want to in this life. With this self-released debut, Piper Phillips is already showing potential as a feel-good musical artist bound for your dance playlists. It’s hard not to want to dance while listening to “Growing Pains.” The upbeat, glimmering production absolutely soars in the chorus. There’s a wonderfully nostalgic quality to “Growing Pains.” The sound is an 80s synthwave throwback with a modern twist. Fans of artists like Dua Lipa would find lots to love within Phillips’ debut. The earworm sound of it all also coincides with the track’s message. The beat pumps with energy as Phillips describes the growing pains of self-improvement. “Growing Pains” is an impressively thought-out, refined pop debut that establishes Piper Phillips as an artist to look out for. Piper Phillips is a NYC-based musician, entrepreneur, and social media personality. She is the founder of the brand “SELF-EMPLOYED” and has acquired over 170,000 followers across apps like TikTok and Instagram with her content creation. She specializes in spreading awareness for self-improvement and alternative career paths. And now, she is adding music to her resume. “Growing Pains” is her just debut, with more to come in the works. Within less than a month, the track has already over 22,000 streams on Spotify with Phillips herself gaining 12,000-plus monthly listeners. It’s clear her career is just getting started and you can listen to “Growing Pains” on all major streaming services now. Written By Lauren Nolan FOLLOW PIPER: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube

Credit: Sing For Science For those of you who don't know... Chaka Khan debuted in 1973 as the lead vocalist of her funk band, Rufus, with whom she had many hits with including “Tell Me Something Good” and "Ain't Nobody". But she is even moreso known for her solo career which she debuted in 1978 with “I’m Every Woman” off of her debut studio album, Chaka. She has cemented her legacy with many accolades to her name. With a career spanning five decades, she’s been hailed as the “Queen of Funk”, received the prestigious Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame receiving the Musical Excellence award in 2023. On May 27th, Chaka Khan came to the Museum of Natural Science, one of Houston’s many prestigious museums, with the founder and director of Music-In-Medicine at M.D. Anderson and concert pianist, Dr. Mei Rui. Both women were interviewed by Matt Whyte who is the creator and host of Sing For Science, a podcast where musicians sit down with scientists to explore the scientific ideas hidden in their most iconic songs. Tonight’s event supports the Chaka Khan Foundation which focuses on advancing mental health and wellness initiatives for neurodivergent individuals. She co-founded the foundation with her sister, Tammy Michelle, whose son was diagnosed with autism. The song discussed was “Tell Me Something Good”, Rufus’s iconic hit song. It played before Chaka came on stage, but when she did arrive, she received a standing ovation. During her time on stage, she discussed the origin of the song. Stevie Wonder came to the studio while she was about nine months pregnant. He played a song and she didn’t like it so he played her another one. She revealed that the drumbeat wasn’t recorded on an actual drumset. It was a literal garbage can! She also discussed her experience with live music and remembering all the lyrics to her songs. Insecurity and fear of not pleasing everyone led to her getting high and weezing. Weezing is still something she struggles with today. She was once told, “If you touch the ocean, you touch the entire ocean.” and that has stuck with her all these years. She was even in a band called Shades of Black before she joined Rufus. At the end of the night, Dr. Mei Lui played a medley of classical pieces. One of the attendees was wearing a neurological device that showed how the brain was reacting to the music. It was one of the new, innovative clinical trials the scientist is involved in. A few of the things I learned about the science behind music included how music activates the entire brain, how live music enhances our emotional and mental wellbeing, and how different genres of music affect our brains both consciously and under anesthesia. While the event was marketed as lasting from 7 to 8 pm, we didn’t get seated until 7:30 and it officially ended at 9:30 pm. The event organizers apologized for the delay, but nonetheless, the event itself was sagacious. I loved Chaka's energy, humor, and philanthropy. One of the most astute gatherings I’ve had the pleasure of attending. I love music and hearing about the process of songwriting. Chaka is releasing another studio album in September of this year so I will make sure to review it. I truly believe that we should always be paying our respects to the legends that shaped music today. Without barrier breaking legends like Chaka Khan, what would the music industry look like? Written By Jazz Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

It’s hard to find yourself falling out of the comfortability of a relationship, to feel how the situation has reached a bad turn. Lila Holler comes to us with "Bruising," a song that explores the complexities of losing control of a relationship and how difficult it can be to feel out of place with your partner. The alternative pop song is both catchy and introspective, and Holler certainly knows how to sell a story to her audience. “Brusing” is the type of song you play in the car at full blast while as you rant to your friends. It’s a song centered around understanding when a relationship has reached its ending point, and how that’s completely okay. For a song that discusses a topic as painful as "Bruising" does, the song still has moments that are incredibly fun and energetic. The second chorus, for example, has a satisfying explosion that adds to the song’s edge. “Brusing” follows a classic pop anthem trend of slowly building until it reaches the right moment to give its emotional landing. Holler’s performance as well stays true to the songs style as she has a great voice for alternative pop. Her singing is sweet but still has enough edge to kick. Throughout the song, Holler does not shy away in her lyrics as they stay incredibly transparent about how sour this relationship has become. This transparency really works in selling the more emotional intent of the track. Overall, “Bruising” is a perfect example of how to handle uncomfortable situations in musical for the sake of entertainment. Lila Holler is an artist whose musical journey began at age 14 when she was given her first guitar. Since then she has really developed her craft and become the singer and songwriter she is now. Her work is influenced by notable names like Phoebe Bridgers, FKA Twigs, and Clairo, as her work tends to blend folk pop and alternative pop elements. She graduated from Interlochen Arts Academy in 2023 and has also won the National YoungArts Competition two years in the past. "Bruising" is a track off her new EP, Born To Bite, which was released on May 22nd. The EP follows a theme of taking back control over her life and pushing past the walls that limit her, which is definitely the energy you get from her work. Lila Holler's work understands how to create musical anthems that uncover what's hiding underneath, as her music allows us to better understand what's going on in our own heads. Written By Chantal Charles FOLLOW LILA HOLLER: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok

Dolder has released their new single, "Sleeping Pills." Coming in with the announcement of their newest EP, This Is How You See Me Now. When looking back on the song, "Sleeping Pills" encompasses the feeling of being left behind by an ex-partner. Rationalizing illogical thoughts, Dolder wishes for their ex back while imagining they're "with a blond Parisian." When looking back at the distance, with Dolder stating that their ex is "overseas," the insomnia after saying goodbye leaves them stranded on the island of their bedroom. Asking for sleeping pills, Dolder hopes that the walls will stop shit-talking their ex and be able to sleep away the time that their ex-partner is gone, treading until they get back. This is my first time ever listening to Dolder, and they've left me on the edge of my seat. The lyrical imagery of water throughout "Sleeping Pills" captured my attention instantly, something I didn't expect when it came to the song title. Aptly describing negative coping mechanisms, Dolder goes through the song and relays the typical "how to get over an ex" rule book: having intrusive thoughts that they've already found someone else and going out drinking with friends, but when the night is over, you're left alone wondering what they're doing. I think Dolder has a great single out in front of them, and while I have commemorated the lyricism, I also want to highlight the production! It's laid-back and lets the acoustic guitar lead the instrumentation throughout the song, allowing the duo's vocals to shine throughout "Sleeping Pills." Overall, "Sleeping Pills" is a fantastic addition to Dolder's building discography. Dolder is a duo based out of Newcastle in the United Kingdom. Behind the duo are identical twins Dani and Zara, 22-years-old respectively, Dani and Zara have been quietly building a legacy behind them, receiving praise from Billboard UK, Clash, Rolling Stone UK, and even being named Radio 1's pick for Future Pop artist. Wowing crowds across Brighton at The Great Escape (with both Billboard UK and DIY shouting out Dolder as one of the best acts that weekend), there's no chance that Dolder is slowing down anytime soon. For readers who would like to keep up with Dolder's newest releases, including their upcoming EP This Is How You See Me Now, and their newest show announcements, they can keep up with Dolder on social media, linked down below. Written By Abby Mornhinweg FOLLOW DOLDER: Instagram | Spotify | Youtube

"Where Are We" by Mathias Julin is an authentic exploration of what it's like to belong. The song's story starts in a crowded party where a couple feels out of place. Finding companionship and peace in their partner, the speaker uses the analogy of driving away together as a powerful expression of escape. The words "Just take my hand and let's get out" express the urgency of their need to be together and free of judgement. The lyrics convey the message that so long as the two lovers are together, they don't need to worry about other peoples opinions on superficial things like what they wear and how they behave. This song hits the ear through a journey in confidence, starting off in a smooth, softer expression before building into a defined and passionate sound. Electronic percussive notes and ambient chords open the track. Mathias's melodic vocals are comforting through the verse. As the story in the song progresses, the instrumentals and vocals grow in volume and power. Percussion powerfully punctuates into the chorus as the singing flows into a passionate staccato. Piano and layered electronic instrumentals fold into the tune, basking in a carpe diem energy. Vocalizing ascends in the background as the question powerfully repeats: "can we lean into this moment and forget where we are?" Mathias Julin is a pop musician whose soulful emotional style first captured public attention through TikTok. His powerful vocals and talents on the guitar provide listeners with an exciting sound reminiscent of Shawn Mendes and One Direction. His recently released debut EP Someday explores themes of relationships and self reflection. With over 66,000 monthly listeners on Spotify and over 130,000 followers on TikTok, Mathias has fostered a loyal platform of listeners through both his dynamic covers and originals. Check out the links below to stay up to date with his music. Written By Hanna Kowal FOLLOW MATHIAS: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube

Cover Art: Elian Wallin Photography: Daria Konovalova Photo studio: Greenpix Studio "HELL OF A RIDE" is the newest single from Natalie Reigo, a song about looking back on a past relationship of the singer's that she and her significant other knew had to conclude, while still knowing they had fun while it lasted. Reigo sings about how many relationships are not meant to be, including her's, and she can accept that but also recognizes that everything feels bittersweet. The butterflies have flown away and things don't feel like how they used to with her partner, so it makes sense to close this chapter of her life, even though she enjoyed it for the better part. Reigo serves genre-bending realness throughout her outstanding new song. The production is distinct and one-of-a-kind, as it begins with spellbinding, power pop synths before it evolves into an indie hit, incorporating different guitar chords and singing styles, and is reminiscent to that of a musical plot twist. The instrumentation grows more and more powerful as the song progresses, which is symbolic for the lyrics. The way Reigo’s voice adapts to the different sections of “HELL OF A RIDE” based on the genre or intensity of the production shows how skilled of a singer and songwriter she is. Natalie Reigo is a Swedish, multitalented artist with many amazing songs in her discography. She released her debut single "Memories" with Swedish musician Jorm in September of 2023, and her debut solo single "Instant Delights" a year later. Other incredible singles by her include but are not limited to "It Was You", "Til The Moment's Gone", and "Rebound". She has also posted amazing song covers on her YouTube channel, such as "Mamma Mia" by ABBA and "Carry You Home" by Zara Larsson, representing her home country. Natalie Reigo is a fantastic vocalist, writer, and performer! Written By Ashley Adams FOLLOW NATALIE REIGO: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube

While dating and meeting someone new can be scary, there is also a lot of hope and amusement in the dance with a new character in your life. It doesn’t have to be heavy and anxiety ridden, it can also be light and airy, with a side of fun. Victoria Staff’s latest single, “Take Me Home” centers around the exhilaration of meeting someone on a night out and instantly connecting, then wondering if they’ll have the guts to take you home. Coming off of Staff’s debut album “Pink Magnolia”, this track is fun and hopeful, highlighting her lyricism and descriptive storytelling. The rest of the album is similar in style, with themes scattered throughout of “the thrill of being young and untethered and the quieter, more complex process of figuring out who you are.” The track opens with a calm, almost melancholic guitar strumming, with Staff’s soft tonality floating over the tune. The lyrics follow Staff throughout her evening, starting with the beginning of the party. She sings, “I twist into the party / Like an addict / Looking for somebody to just sip / He says ‘Darling you're a bad trip’”. As the song goes on, the two connect, describing the taxi ride home together and the twisting turns of the road. They reach his apartment in the second verse, as she fixes her makeup and they wait for the elevator. Once they reach the bridge, the track grows and grows with anticipation, mimicking Staff’s feelings about her pick of the night. It follows them as they twist down the hallway, slipping into his room as she sings, “Gotta love a man who doesn't waste his time at all”. Victoria Staff prides herself on storytelling. This is the root and the heart of her music, and the truth of what she aims to convey. Her lyrics are each intricately written and flushed out, and have gained her almost three million views across various platforms. Having released music since 2023, Staff continues these themes with Pink Magnolia, and states that “It’s not really a happy or sad album. It just is.” Her words are honest and open about the struggles of a girl in her early twenties, figuring out boys and identity, rises and falls. While her tracks follow specific snapshots of these moments, the overarching themes of growth and experiences shine throughout her songs. Make sure to follow the social medias below to stay tuned for more music from Victoria Staff. Written By Tessa Maddaloni FOLLOW VICTORIA STAFF: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube

"Bitter" by Maisy Kay lingers in the aftermath of an intense relationship fallout. The single is a confessional pop song, allowing listeners into the vulnerable mess of a breakup. Maisy Kay navigates a return to herself, although she's a different version of herself than she was before the relationship. She sings, "Remember when I was bitter, but now I'm feeling much better. The old me you can forget her 'cuz going back I would never." Marking a new chapter in her life, Kay releases her bitterness towards her ex-partner, though she will continue to be shaped by her experience with them. Pulsating, reverberated synth chords and a driven beat that is only lightly percussive leave room for emphasis on the rest of the instrumentation. The use of vocal stacking creates dynamic swells throughout the song that aid in carving out emotional resonance. Maisy Kay's genre blending meets somewhere fantastical and cinematic, allowing the focus to be on her narrative style. Her ambient soundscape gives a sonic air of head-in-the-clouds that confirms overthinking and living in your head post-breakup. The song is vocally-led and balanced, prioritizing Kay's emotional delivery and songwriting. Born in Claverley, Shropshire, England, Maisy moved to Los Angeles at just sixteen years old. That same year, she won her first American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) award. Maisy still currently resides in Los Angeles, where in her free time she enjoys playing video games, drawing/painting, reading, writing, aerial silk, archery, and exercising. Maisy is dedicated to her love for animals, collecting quite a menagerie of pets. She has a bearded dragon, frogs, a cat, and also raises butterflies. Her music blends a classic pop sentiment with a modern, wondrous, alt-pop identity. Touring with LANY, Maisy Kay is performing across Europe this summer and will continue to reach international audiences. Written By Azalea Withrow FOLLOW MAISY KAY: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube

It’s hard to conceptualize that not everyone we meet is deserving of our trust. Sometimes we give it so easily and within an instant we take it back. Theres wolves in sheep’s clothing all around us and making the discovery is equally devastating and heartbreaking. There is no pain quite as confusing as falling for someone you genuinely believed had good intentions, but finding out it was all an act of manipulation to get what they wanted. Julia DeTamoso released her new single, “Goodbye, Goodnight, Good Seeing You” about compulsively reopening the wound of shattered trust. It’s full of sharp wit and restrained devastation dissecting every moment of the relationship wondering what was real and what was an illusion. It’s the perfect song for late nights laying on your bedroom floor hoping to find answers on your ceiling. “Goodbye, Goodnight, Good Seeing You,” is the reflection that comes after the mourning. You’ve processed what happened and you want to accept it but there’s still moments when you can’t quite understand it all. The rose colored glasses are off and you’re seeing everything for what it was. "I believed him, now I am agnostic.” Julia collaborated with Evan Eliason to turn this song into a story. With haunting synths, layered harmonies and bright acoustic strums, you go through every stage of grief. If you love artists like Gracie Abrams or Lizzy McAlpine, this is a must listen. Julia DeTomaso began writing songs at a very young age and quickly fell in love with it. She writes indie-pop songs full of moody, sharp and unfiltered lyricism that feel like late night diary entries. Writing is her outlet and release for every vulnerable moment in life and it is universally felt by every listener. Julia is a multi-instrumentalist who performed on stage many times throughout her teenage years. She decided to take time away from music to finish her education and came back in 2025 with her debut single, “Fake It.” This was her introduction to her artistry and the cathartic reflections her music shares. Julia DeTomaso is on a solo journey that will take her far. If you like this release, be sure to follow the links down below to stay up to date on her future releases and future shows. Written By Emylee Herring FOLLOW JULIA DETOMASO: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube

Credit: Pollstar News I finally got to see Demi Lovato! I’ve been a fan ever since she debuted. I grew up watching her on Disney Channel. Ah, nostalgia! Sonny with a Chance and Camp Rock came out when Disney was at the peak of their powers. I can't believe it's been 18 years, but I've followed her career all the way up until now. So let's get into it... Adela came out at 8 o’clock sharp and her set was roughly 30 minutes. Her setlist was reminiscient of a rave and included "SexOnTheBeat", "Go", "Superscar", and a section where she performed ballet along with her backup dancers. I usually don't get wooed by opening acts, but I genuinely liked her and have started listening to her music. I’d love to see her become a bigger pop girlie because she has that level of talent: vocals, choreography, sex appeal, and stage presence. Demi Lovato Performing Skyscraper Demi started the performance at 9:05 pm with “Fast”. Then, she rattled off "Kiss", "Heart Attack", "Confident", and "Solo". While she briefly left the stage for an outfit change, her dancers broke it down to “Instruction”, “No Promises”, and "Neon Lights". Fast forward to some of my favorite songs from her most recent album, "Say It" and "Here All Night". Then, we get into the suprise song of the night. Ours was "4 EVER 4 ME" from HOLY FVCK and it was dedicated to her husband. During the tail end of the show, she brought out Adela to sing Cher Lloyd’s part in "Really Don’t Care". That and "Cool for the Summer" were the most hype songs of the night with the latter officially ending at 10:40 pm. A blast from the past and a fun night out all in one! Demi Lovato's Final Bow Overall, the show balanced Demi's old and new songs very well. She thanked us endlessly and was very happy the whole time. Her vocal performance is what she’s known for and she absolutely delivered. After all these years, her voice has only gotten fuller and stronger. Not only was this the last show of this tour, but it was also her wedding anniversary. It’s pretty cool and special that Houston got to be a part of this journey with her and to see her happy and thriving is a truly wonderful thing. Written By Jazz Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

Over time, we become different and new people. We change, our personalities are reshaped, and we’re often forced to face the people we used to be and reconcile that with who we are now. Emily Hackett’s latest single “Crowded Room” highlights how we come to terms with our past and present selves, and making peace with who we once were. An indie-pop anthem with an upbeat, hopeful soundscape, this track is everything you’d ever want from a song about accepting yourself. It’s reflective and fun all at the same time, inviting you to chant along to the chorus as you try to make space for yourself in your own crowded room. But don’t worry, there’s always a spot for you in there. “Crowded Room” is such a beautiful homage to loving all the parts of yourself. It’s easy to get caught up in who we used to be and who we might become, but this track really highlights the exploration we go through in our lives in order to make space for each version of our selves. I love how physical the lyrics are, placing our identities in a literal room where we bump into who we used to be a year, two years, or even a decade ago. And we’re always trying to carve out a new section for ourselves in that room as it gets more and more crowded each year. Coupled with a light, dynamic soundscape and Emily’s gorgeous vocals, “Crowded Room” becomes the ultimate anthem to accepting who we are and who we previously were. It may be hard to come to terms with the identities we once had, but we always manage to find our spot eventually, and I love that this track underscores this with its contemplative songwriting. Emily Hackett is a Nashville-based singer-songwriter who infuses each of her songs with the passion to inspire each listener to look deeper into their own lives. With detailed storytelling, she creates music that explores what it means to be human, transforming pain into tracks that audiences can find hope in. She’s earned recognition from Belk’s Modern Southern Music Tour and CMT’s Next Women of Country, and has also secured a finalist spot in Lightning 100’s Music City Mayhem. Her debut track “Take My Hand (The Wedding Song)” debuted in 2014, and has since amassed 17 million listens on Spotify alone. If you loved “Crowded Room,” be sure to check out the rest of Emily’s discography, and drop her a follow on her socials! Written By Alexa Leung FOLLOW EMILY HACKETT: Instagram | Spotify | Website | Facebook | YouTube

Love and success are two of the biggest things most people desire. On one hand, you may want to find someone that understands and loves you. On the other hand, you may really want to focus on your ambitions and achieve personal greatness. But oftentimes, there can be a point of tension and conflict between the two goals, especially when trying to find balance for both. We live in a world where it's widely taught and believed that you cannot have both without some struggles. In Oshri's latest song “I Want It All,” he uses heartfelt lyrics and an incredibly unique sound to explore the tension that arises between love and ambition. Throughout the song, the storytelling through the lyrics is profound and unmissable. The lyric, “I wanna take a leap / But I wonder / Is it one way or the other?” clearly shows the struggle of having to choose between love or ambition, when all you really want is to take a leap and follow your heart. Another notable and unforgettable lyric at the beginning that shows this is: “I should be packaged with a warning / I don’t wanna be lonely / Stuck in between the heart and the head / All of the lights keep on flashing in red.” This shows the underlying conflict and pain that comes along with the push-pull feelings between love and ambition. A lot of that conflict exists internally as you have to constantly question whether you wish to pursue everything or settle with the person you love. “I Want It All” is a song that is simply mesmerizing. The moment you start listening, Oshri’s vocals immediately hooks you. He has a naturally seductive vocal tone that makes it feel as if you are being enthralled with each lyric he sings. “I Want It All” is the best example of the power behind music. Oshri has created a piece of art that is magnetizing and feels like a siren song that can easily lure you away. I could imagine the song playing as a dramatic score in a devastating romance film or something that would be listened to while reading a fiction novel. It’s impossible to hear the song and feel nothing. Oshri’s voice has this unforgettable aura to it that makes “I Want It All” have endless repeat value. There is also a layer of power from the cultural roots Oshri blends into the song. He added Middle Eastern textures through the background instrumentals from a sitar and oud, which proudly showcased the beauty of his culture and Yemenite roots. It’s not just a song, but an unforgettable listening experience that lingers in both your head and your heart. Oshri is a Yemenite singer-songwriter from South Africa who is currently based in Los Angeles. His music career took off when he won the first ever South African TRACE Music Stars competition. The show was mentored by Wyclef Jean and broadcasted on Trace Urban, the second largest music video television network in the world. After living in South Africa, Oshri moved to New York City to continue his endeavors with Wyclef and pursue his efforts in gaining recognition in the music world. Oshri was invited to perform at the Trace Urban Music Awards in Paris of 2015. He was approached by the American pop and R&B singer, Akon, to sign to his label. After realizing that the label wasn’t a good fit for his music, he left on good terms and began to release music independently. His first release was on the Billboard Top–40 Dance chart. With French and Middle Eastern parents, his music style is heavily influenced by his cultural diversity, and creates a one-of-a-kind sound. Oshri is very active on his social media accounts, so be sure to follow to stay updated with his future releases! Written By Kyler Griggs FOLLOW OSHRI: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube