Greek-Canadian Pop/RnB artist, Mandia, dropped a mini EP titled "Sapphire", which is named after her birthstone and showcases her most deep, personal tracks yet. TRACKLIST Boy Bye Yours 2 Keep Selling Dreams Born in Ottowa, Mandia grew up a natural born performer. Since the age of 8 years old, she would sing and dance at Ontario festivals, and studied classical music. She began uploading videos of her singing on YouTube, which led to her gaining attention from both U.S. and Canadian songwriters and producers at only age 15. Inspired by iconic vocalists like Mariah Carey , Celine Dion , Beyonce , Whitney Houston and Christina Aguilera , Mandia created her own unique blend of pop, rnb, and soul with essences of hip-hop. She released her official first single, "Secret" in 2015. Over the past ten years she has released an EP and many singles, working with Grammy-Award winning producers and performing live all around the country. "Sapphire" the mixed tape features 3 tracks that shows Mandia in a way we've never seen her before. Let's get into it! Boy Bye We start with "Boy Bye" a mid-tempo, nostalgic Pop/RnB song with a message directly to all the girls out there who deserve way more than they get. Mandia sings with a gorgeous mixed voice through a popping bass and beat, as well as a super catchy acoustic guitar riff. "Boy Bye" is a female hype song, helping women gain confidence and reminding them of the strong, beautiful and independent person they are. With clever lyricism like "out here looking fly and he can't even book a flight" , "Boy Bye" reassures women that you don't have to settle for a man that doesn't treat you right. Get out there, show him what he's missing, and never look back. There's a whole planet of guys out there and one of them is bound to do better for you! Yours 2 Keep Next we have the focus track, "Yours 2 Keep", which continues the theme of self-confidence and taking what you deserve, this time aimed at the man himself. With lots of sass and attitude, Mandia sings of her qualities that this guy will never have because he wasn't there for her. She already did so much for him but never got anything in return; so she's taking back her crown and shining like the badass queen she is. She's showing him that she doesn't need him; she's got plenty of guys in her DM's just waiting for a chance to talk to her - and she wants him to know just how bad he messed up. "Yours 2 Keep" has an RnB acoustic picking pattern, with a thriving early 2000's bass and drum groove, and a hip-hop inspired hook that'll get stuck in your head for days. Selling Dreams Last but not least, we have "Selling Dreams" which is about being approached by men who think you'll be with them just because they have money. They're profiling you based on your looks and lifestyle, rather than a woman with feelings. Mandia sings that it's going to take more than just money to get with her. This song shimmers and sparkles with a variety of synths and string production. Mandia shows off her chest voice and rapping skills with a surprise hip-hop verse in the middle of the song. I really enjoy the vocal layering and harmonies as well. It follows the theme of nostalgic early 2000's RnB, with just a hint of commercial pop. I think Mandia accomplished exactly the vibe she was going for with this project. You feel like you're listening to a mixed tape straight out of the early 2000's. As a woman, the overwhelming feeling of empowerment and confidence is so liberating. It's important to have music that is validating and to pick you up off of the floor. Not only did Mandia do that with her lyrics, but she also has the most stunning voice and creates catchy, addicting and nostalgic soundscapes that make you want to listen to her more. If you loved the songs on "Sapphire" I highly suggest diving into the rest of Mandia's discography from over the years. You can also find all of her social media pages below to keep up with what is yet to come! Written By Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW MANDIA: Instagram | X | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube | Website *Sponsored Post - Discovered on SubmitHub. A contribution was made to help create this article as part of a promotional campaign.

Photo credits: Spotify It’s truly an honor for a song to reach over 1 billion streams on any platform. It shows how much fans truly appreciate an artist’s work, setting them and their music apart from the plethora of other performers who have yet to reach this milestone. To commemorate this achievement, Spotify created a playlist of songs that have reached a billion streams on their platform.  With hundreds of titles in Spotify’s Billions Club , here are our top picks for Pop Songs With Over 1 Billion Streams on Spotify. 1. "Good Luck, Babe!" - Chappell Roan Coming on the heels of The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess , Chappell Roan released “Good Luck, Babe!” on April 5, 2024, taking the internet by storm and becoming a chart-topping queer anthem. Roan wrote the track with Justin Tranter and Dan Nigro, lyrically addressing compulsory heterosexuality as Roan describes a relationship with a woman who is trying to deny her feelings for her and women in general. Showcasing her vocal prowess, Roan’s voice soars on “Good Luck, Babe!,” proving exactly why she’s your favorite artist’s favorite artist. 2. "BIRDS OF A FEATHER" - Billie Eilish Another hit from singer-songwriter Billie Eilish, “BIRDS OF A FEATHER” joined Spotify’s Billions Club shortly after its July 2024 release. The track is from Eilish’s third studio album, Hit Me Hard and Soft , released as the album’s second single. It has been a huge success for the American artist, topping charts like the Billboard Global 200 and the US Billboard Hot 100. Adding to Eilish’s long list of accomplishments, “BIRDS OF A FEATHER” has been certified multi-platinum in Australia, Canada, Greece, New Zealand, Poland, France, Portugal, the UK, and the US. 3. "In The Stars" - Benson Boone A recent addition to Spotify’s Billions Club, Benson Boone’s “In The Stars” is a touching 2022 hit that deserves all the attention it can get. The track is sentimental and moving, inspired by the artist’s grief over the death of his great-grandmother. “In The Stars” peaked in the top 10 in Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden, and was later certified Gold by the RIAA in January 2023 and Platinum in October 2023. 4. "Cruel Summer" - Taylor Swift Following the start of her Eras Tour, Taylor Swift’s “Cruel Summer” began to resurge in popularity and streaming after becoming a viral sensation on social media. The renewed interest in the synth-pop song resulted in “Cruel Summer” topping the charts once again and became Swift’s 41st song to reach the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. It currently has over 2.7 billion streams on Spotify and is currently one of Swift’s top songs on the platform, proving that “Cruel Summer” remains to be a fan favorite. 5. "Blinding Lights" - The Weeknd Having well over 4.7 billion streams on Spotify, The Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights” has been a giant commercial success for the Canadian artist. The track has received universal acclaim from critics and fans alike, praised for its nostalgic nods to 1980s synth-pop. Setting records for The Weeknd, “Blinding Lights” topped charts internationally, spending weeks in the top five and top ten and becoming the first song to hold a top 10 spot for an entire year. “Blinding Lights” is also the most streamed song on Spotify and was the first to surpass 4 billion streams, making it a natural addition to our list. 6. "Too Sweet" - Hozier Following on the heels of his third studio album, Unreal Unearth , Hozier's “Too Sweet” was the first song released from his fifth EP, Unheard , becoming an instant commercial success. No surprise that the track has hit over a billion streams, the number one single quickly became an internet sensation, being used for short-form videos across social media platforms upon its release. Though it was surprising to have new music from Hozier so soon after the release of Unreal Unearth , it is not shocking as to why “Too Sweet” has captivated the world. Between Hozier’s sonorous vocals, the groovy bass lines, and seductive melodies, “Too Sweet” is just simply irresistible. 7. "Love On The Brain" - Rihanna A beloved hit from 2016, Rihanna’s “Love On The Brain” was released as the fourth single from her eighth studio album, Anti . The pop track was inspired by 1950s/60s doo-wop and soul, creating a gorgeous ballad that fans have fallen in love with. Upon its release, “Love On The Brain” has been a great success for Rihanna, charting at number 5 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and becoming the Barbadian singer’s 22nd top-five single. 8. "Cheap Thrills" - Sia A throwback to a 2015/2016 favorite, Sia’s “Cheap Thrills” is another gem in Spotify’s Billions Club. The track comes from the Australian singer-songwriter’s seventh studio album, This Is Acting , and was later remixed into a version featuring Jamaican singer Sean Paul. It was a huge commercial hit for Sia and Sean Paul , charting internationally and reaching number one on the US Billboard Hot 100. 9. "Stick Season" - Noah Kahan The titular track from the artist’s third studio album, “Stick Season” is another hit to reach over a billion streams on Spotify. It was released as the album’s lead single in 2022, going viral on TikTok and charting internationally after Olivia Rodrigo covered it on BBC Radio1. Despite the song’s upbeat composition, “Stick Season” is named after a term for autumn in New England, marking a time of transition between Halloween and winter snow that bums people out. 10. "Please Please Please" - Sabrina Carpenter Being one of many songs to go viral for Sabrina Carpenter, “Please Please Please” has captivated the world since its release and was added to Spotify's Billions Club in November 2024. The disco-pop track follows the commercial success of “Espresso” with both singles teasing the release of her sixth studio album, Short n’ Sweet . Alongside the song’s viral performance, “Please Please Please” has become Carpenter’s first number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100 and has topped charts in Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, Norway, and the United Kingdom. Did you hear any songs you love on this list? Do you have any favorites in Spotify’s Billions Club? Let us know on our socials! Written By Cheyenne Johnson Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

What an upbeat, fun, energetic, incredibly catchy rock song that gives us the motivation to throw our hands in the air and do things our way. CMAGIC5, also known as “C,” claims the song is “anthemic” and with lyrics like, “Oh no, not another Romeo” and “I’m done with fairytales” leads into the idea that love is actually anti-fairytale. Instead of the song revolving around the idea of loving someone else, it rings loud of self-love and strength. It’s the song that you cannot wait to scream-sing when you’re seeing it live and the energy must be off the charts.  At first listen, the song sounds almost like an 80’s rock anthem but quickly it gives us anti-patriarchy punches with a sound that feels like a young Avril Lavigne. This song gives listeners the feeling of claiming their own paths again and changing the narrative to how they want things to be. The thematic play on fairy tales is also incredibly fun for listeners to engage with as well. With the title being called, ‘Happy Never After,’ claiming how the last person they were with was just “another actor,” and the simple fact that the song opens up with “once upon a time” show the logic and thought that went into the lyrics for a throughline like this.  CMAGIC5 is a singer-songwriter, musician, and recording artist from Toronto, Canada that is bringing us the main character energy that we all deserve to know. With an incredibly catchy and fun pop-punk sound with extremely thoughtful lyrics, her songs are bound to get your heart beating faster and fists punching the air to a new revolution of angst. CMAGIC5 is the friend and voice in our ear that we need to remind us that we are in charge of creating our own destiny and narratives. They’re there to remind us that we especially do not need another person, let alone a man, to create that for us.  Written By Breanna M. FOLLOW CMAGIC5 Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

JOA’s latest single “Golden Years” turns the typical coming-of-age experience on its head and opts for a blaze-of-glory youth experience. Not every teenager’s transition into adulthood is filled with straightforward paths and guaranteed success. There comes a point where you realize the future can be unpredictable, so living in each moment is what truly matters. The golden years don’t need to be reserved for decades beyond now. With this fall into uncertainty about the future, less care and stress is spent on looking for the dim light at the end of the tunnel. All that really matters now is the present, and reminiscing on the past reaps no benefit. What is happening now is golden and any other time is far from now. "Golden Years" starts softly with JOA's emotional and tender vocals along with piano. It gently builds with strings, a stomping beat and atmospheric background vocals, going from a ballad to a cathartic and anthemic release of energy. There's a bittersweet sensation that overcomes you when you hear the soundscape of this song; our early adulthood years are both scary and thrilling, but it's good to be reminded to live these years to the fullest while we still have them. The sonic elements of "Golden Years" radiates a youthful aura that'll make you want to stop wasting your time on silly things, get on out there, and do whatever will make you happy. JOA is a Norwegian singer-songwriter currently based in Oslo, Norway. Growing up, she was heavily integrated in the musical theatre scene and has incorporated this into her music. She released her first single in just 2024 and has already gained a dedicated following. Some of her musical inspirations are artists such as Phoebe Bridgers and Julia Michaels. The young singer regularly engages with her audience on social media in the weeks leading to the release of her first EP. Her website consists of a diary newsletter in which she curates posts relevant to her career and life. Make sure to follow JOA on social media and give “Golden Years” a listen! Written By Willow Gray & Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW JOA: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube | Website

Falling for someone and seeing a picture perfect future hurts like hell when you find out you were only ever an object to them. They’re all sweet words laced with manipulation so they can take whatever they want from you. “Notch” is a new single from Sorrycarlee about a past guy who compared her to being a comb in a refrigerator. In moments like this it’s easy to lose a sense of self, crumble and lose all trust you once let others hold. Sorrycarlee saw the true amusement of this situation which inspired her to write “Notch.” This track is an upbeat metaphoric banger that brings all the comedic heat. She stated it explores disillusionment, self worth and empowerment that is still painfully relevant to her life today. “Notch” is the type of song you hear and immediately know the girls who get it, get it! The dating scene nowadays is laughable with how many toxic men only want your body and surface level situationships. Carlee pulled the trigger from the start of this track by making the first line a reference to what was said to her. “I’m not a comb, I’m not a refrigerator.” I heavily respect how vulnerable Carlee was with her experience because it allows “Notch” to be relatable for others who have been in her shoes. The ability to recognize when people have wronged you and find a way to rise from that is powerful. Woman are worth so much more than being a “notch” in a mans belt. Sorrycarlee, also known as Carlee Chappell, was on the road to getting her PhD in psychology before the decision to become a singer-songwriter was made. She put her heart into school, making good grades, going to a prestigious university and graduating with a degree in English and Psychology, but her heart needed to be fulfilled elsewhere. Ironically studying to be a therapist has turned her into the perfect artist for lyrical therapy. Carlee started her career co-writing with songwriters Maddie Zahm, Francis Karel, Abigail Barlow, etc. She decided to start her solo career blending pop with diary like lyrics that capture heartbreak and self-discovery. Her debut single “cheap therapy,” was released in 2024 and “Notch” has followed as her sophomore release. Carlee is a confessional, upbeat pop girly who will be on the rise with each project she releases throughout her journey. Written By Emylee Herring FOLLOW SORRYCARLEE: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube

Nashville based country artist, Kat Velasco, has recently released her latest single, “Paper Boy”, on February 21st. Dealing with heartbreak and romance, this track is inspired by Velasaco’s own dating experiences. She uses the lyrics as a way to explain how she is now reflecting on a past relationship, realizing that he really only looked good on paper. At the time, she thought they were perfect for each other and would last forever, however she came to realize his actions made him seem much more invested than he actually was. Everything he was doing and saying seemed completely right, but he really was just acting out what he thought he was supposed to be doing- whatever looked good on paper. Velasco’s lyrics in the first verse describe the quintessential teenage love: boombox on the shoulders, throwing rocks at her window. She even references James Dean, the iconic heartthrob. However, in the pre-chorus Velasco explains that her expectations were way too high, and that she should have realized the truth of their relationship. In the chorus, she sings, “My first name / Looks good with your last / Some things they never last / They just look good on paper / Boy boy / You just look good on paper boy”. Putting a play on the term ‘paper boy’, Velasco’s clear tonality works perfectly as she belts her heart out over this pop and upbeat soundscape. Over the bridge, she slows down and repeats the lyrics of the chorus with an even more heartfelt tone, almost begging with her past self to read between the lines. Hailing from South Carolina but now settled in Nashville, Kat Velasco has always had a soft spot for music. Discovering her passion for the art early on, she performed in various theater opportunities and began releasing her own music in 2021. Her third single, “Leave Me Wild”, was her first big hit, and got her onto popular Spotify playlists, with her 2022 single “Call Me” getting her noticed across the country by various radio stations and interviews. With over 4,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, fans love Velasco’s mix of slight country twang and pop soundscapes. Make sure to follow the social medias below to stay tuned for more more from Kat Velasco. Written By Tessa Maddaloni FOLLOW KAT: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

To come onto a new season of life with no insight is really a scary thing, and Bella Rios tells of the struggle in her new single, “Right Now”. Coming onto her last year of college, Bella Rios taps into her emotions by writing this moody ballad. This love letter is written to her college besties to let them know that it may seem scary now, but everything will work out in the end. This idea presents itself in the chorus: “I can’t see it right now / but everything’s gonna be fine now / it’s not gonna bring me to my knees / I can see the forest through the trees”. Bella tells the listeners about her determination to push through the obstacles to achieve the end goal. She might not see it yet, but everything will be fine. Whether you’re a senior in high school, college, or making a huge life change, this song is definitely one to blast to regain strength so you can get to the new beginning. Starting off with a strong acoustic, “Right Now” has a sad melody that encapsulates listeners right off the bat. Tying in with vocalizations that hum gracefully throughout the song, it feels like a walk through the winter forest. While this song is full of sorrow, she keeps the positivity at high while reminding herself that trying times should not be easy: “If it comes easy / It’s not always true / Forge it with fire / And start over new”. This song also being a ballad further shows her sentimental self, giving light onto her emotional connection with her surroundings and not wanting to let them go just yet. It’s a love song for the now, as she is unaware of the path forward. When feeling down or lost when dealing with a transitional period in life, this song is a must need to have by your side to lift your spirits and be ready for the new. As she vents these emotions through her rich and powerful voice, she reminds us all that we “Might not see it right now / But everything’s gonna be fine now”. Bella Rios is a pop singer and songwriter, originating from Chicago and now based in Nashville, Tennessee. Her journey began at five-years-old, when she first began learning classical piano, and started soaking up her parents’ collection of musical greats like Fleetwood Mac and Queen. Other contemporary artists during the era like Adele and P!nk also played a role in shaping her musical style. This mixture of musical influence can be heard within Bella’s music, especially with her new EP “Sincerely,” that captures the joys and struggles of being a young adult today. As she tackles topics of love, heartbreak, and mental health, her lyrics are easy to enjoy and sing along to. In addition to her thoughtful lyricism, Bella is a talented musician with expertise in piano and guitar. As a student in Princeton, her friends are her best critics when vibe-checking a song. If they are moved by it and love it, she knows she’s onto something. If you have checked out “Right Now”, be sure to check out her new EP “Sincerely,”! To keep updates, follow her Spotify and Instagram in the links below. Written By Nevaeh Scott FOLLOW BELLA RIOS: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

"Pillow Hopping" is the latest dance pop track from singer-songwriter NIIVA, released on February 14, 2025. The song comes as the lead single off of her upcoming EP, set to release later this year in the summer. If "Pillow Hopping" is any indication of what is to come, this EP will definitely be worth giving a listen. Here, NIIVA blends a synth-filled soundscape with sultry vocals, making this track the perfect addition to any getting ready or going out playlists. The song is all about losing your head and not being able to resist someone that has such a powerful hold over you, even though you know it is only for the night. "Pillow Hopping" marks NIIVA's transition into the grittier side of pop music, while still maintaining the melodic pop that listeners have come to expect and enjoy. On this track, she sings about the rush of fleeting desire and intense attraction with lines like "Touch me like you know me / You can't take it slowly" and "I don't want forever / Just until the sun comes up / I don't mind if you take me for a ride." It's a sexy pop track with infectious hooks and danceable production. If you have ever felt yourself drawn to someone that is probably trouble, you'll find yourself dancing and singing along to this. NIIVA is a Bulgarian-born, England-raised, Canadian-based pop singer-songwriter. She has been acclaimed with honors such as iHeart Radio's Future Star and Amazon Music Canada's Breakthrough Artist. She co-wrote K-Pop hit "Black Mamba" that went number 1 on Billboard World Album Chart, and her own track "Friends" charted at 13 on Billboard Canada. She has earned over a million streams and 27,000 monthly listeners on Spotify. If you enjoyed "Pillow Hopping," make sure to check out the rest of her music. You can also keep up with all the latest information on NIIVA by following the social media links below. Written By Sydney Gray FOLLOW NIIVA: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

We’ve all sat at a red light for too long at some point in our lives, just waiting and waiting for it to finally turn green so we can get on with our day. The problem with that is that red lights sometimes give us time to think, and when you’re going through something, it can be troublesome to have a spare moment to dwell on it. Keara’s “Red Thunder” is exactly that, harnessing that feeling of being trapped in a car with nothing but your thoughts and the red flash of the traffic lights on your face– not to mention sitting right next to the person you can’t stop thinking about. Wrapped in a gentle yet energetic soundscape, this single is delightfully contradictory with a cheerful tone that juxtaposes its melancholy lyrics. It’s the kind of song that makes listeners feel heard and seen, with a story that we can all relate to– and even if all your thinking happens not at a red light, you can still understand the sentiment of being stuck in one place with nothing but your thoughts and the person who is central to them. What strikes me most about “Red Thunder” is the atmosphere. The song begins with this super soft guitar, which quickly builds into the song’s overall soundscape. It’s bright and breezy, easy to tap your foot along to and hum with. It's also joined by a smooth underlying bass, which is by far the quickest way to get me to like a song. And once you dive deeper and really listen to the lyrics, you get a brilliant story and message to go with it. But before I talk about the lyrics, I’d love to just mention how clever I think the song’s title is– indicative of both the flash of a red traffic light and sudden, lightning-like realizations, “Red Thunder” is such a witty name for a song that deals with both of these things. The track muses on a relationship that is currently going through a rough patch, with the narrator being imprisoned at a red traffic light and being stuck thinking about the fight they had with their partner, with said partner sitting beside them. Lines such as “Time stops with you” and “Lost, in a wave of you” are evocative of how confined the narrator feels both physically and temporally, cornered by their memories and their partner. “Red Thunder” certainly knows how to capture that tension while simultaneously providing a soundscape that keeps us singing along. Originally hailing from Brandon, Manitoba, singer-songwriter Keara has been pursuing her music career for the past three years in Montréal . Her musical style can be likened to artists such as Sabrina Carpenter, Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, and Gracie Abrams– Keara's soundscapes are infused with personal, emotional messages and a diary-like feel to their lyricism, joined by a softness in their tones. Her debut single was released in 2024, entitled “Shaelyn”, and was followed in 2025 with “Red Thunder”. “Red Thunder” was especially inspired during Keara’s move to Montréal , during a time when she was looking out at the road and watching the traffic lights turn from green to red. This is only the beginning for Keara; if you enjoyed “Red Thunder”, drop her a follow so you can be notified of her upcoming projects! Written By Alexa Leung FOLLOW KEARA: Instagram | Spotify  | Apple Music

"Lean on you" brings us a better understanding of what it looks like to pursue someone for whom you have high hopes. As the listener we can understand the level of desire the artist has for the other person. There's a genuine sense of hope when the artist talks about trusting the other person with her heart. One of my favorite lines from the song is, "But I'd rather be nowhere / than be without you someday." The lyrics bring a smile to your face because most, if not all, of us have experienced something fairly similar to what Abbie Redheart is expressing here. The chorus of the song sums up the overarching theme beautifully when it says, "If I hold on, baby, would you hold me back would you hold on too / If I needed more than you could give, would you make that move / Cause if I lean in, honey would you tell me I can lean on you." The chorus adds even more depth, helping the listener to feel the full impact of the song. The tone of the song is heartfelt and authentic. It captures the excitement and the vulnerability that comes along with love and all of its new possibilities. The tone helps solidify the mood of the song, which is uplifting and hopeful. We can easily gather the enthusiasm Abbie Redheart has towards the situation at hand. This is further established through the lyrics, which hold a lot of joy. There's a fun fusion of instruments, such as the guitar and drums, alongside more modern production elements. This blend provides a dynamic backdrop that supports and showcases the vocals without overpowering them. Overall, the balance between instrumentation and vocals works well together, allowing the full impact of the song to be felt by the listener. Abbie Redheart is a Derbyshire native. She is now based in London, where she is becoming an emerging force in the alt-pop realm. Abbie Redheart has made a name for herself by blending indie undertones with country warmth, creating a beautiful, delicate yet raw mix. Her lyrics explore topics like love, loss, and self-discovery. She is inspired by timeless classics and modern sounds, infusing her music with a Fleetwood Mac-like energy. Abbie's onstage presence is described as immersive and emotionally charged, allowing the audience to connect with her and her music on a deeper level. Spring is right around the corner, and Abbie Redheart's music should be at the top of your playlist. Check out "Lean on you" and keep your eyes peeled for more from Abbie Redheart. Written By Destiny Rundquist FOLLOW Abbie Redheart: Instagram | Spotify

“People Watching” is the third studio album from Northern English musician Sam Fender and perhaps his most honest yet. It is rife with details of experiences that have impacted his life, as well as the experiences faced by his loved ones.  His songwriting is deep and reflective, never shying away from any ugly truths. He is capable of finding beauty in the mundane and has an aptitude for writing about the struggles of the UK’s working class with care. This album is a shrine to where he comes from and honors those he grew up with. However, it is relatable enough for those from outside of Northern England to project their own experiences on.  TRACKLIST People Watching Nostalgia’s Lie Chin Up Wild Long Lie Arm’s Length Crumbling Empire Little Bit Closer Rein Me In TV Dinner Something Heavy Remember My Name People Watching “People Watching” is the lead single and title track of the album. It also marks Fender’s return to music since his last album “Seventeen Going Under” was released in 2021. This song was written in honor of one of Fender’s late loved ones who he describes as a “surrogate mother.” When asked about her connection to his song, Fender said, “ It’s kind of ironic because she was the one that gave me the confidence to go on stage, and always used to be like ‘why haven’t you mentioned my name in your acceptance speech’. But now an entire song (and album) connects to her. I hope that wherever she is now she’s looking down saying ‘about time kid’.”  The song is upbeat and catchy in a way that feels like you’re running; whether towards something or away is up to interpretation. Its melody subverts its heart-wrenching lyrics as Fender describes the feeling of responsibility he had to make sure the end of this person’s life was dignified. Despite how hard it can be to shoulder something like that, he does not see it as a burden because, as he says, “that’s just love.” He goes on to describe the empty feeling of seeing other people go about their lives as he feels so much loss on his own following the death of his loved one. He speaks of feeling envious of those who have no idea what he’s going through, and how his envy is a brief respite from his loneliness. It is the perfect song for anyone who has had to care for someone they love and learn to live with the following loss. It is a balm for healing hearts and reminds us to never take a second with anyone for granted. Nostalgia’s Lie “Nostalgia’s Lie” is dedicated to those of us who romanticize even the worst times of our lives. While we long to return to certain places, people or memories, we may forget that they weren’t the best for us.  As Fender realizes this, he decides to move forward and embrace all the complex emotions that come with them. He decides to let his defenses down and move through the world with an open heart despite the heartbreak that may come.  Chin Up “Chin Up” is the song for anyone simply going through it. Whether that be due to the end of a relationship, the loss of a job or any other kind of life-interrupting event, Fender knows where you’re coming from.  While we may want or even need  to wallow in self-pity, sometimes there just isn’t enough time when you’re focusing on survival. There is always something else that demands attention; a job to get to, another turbulent political story or friends inviting you on another numbing night out. There is also always the feeling that what you’re going through isn’t bad enough to feel sorry for yourself; when other people have it worse, who are you to complain? This is perhaps the most relatable song on the album, especially for those of us navigating our twenties while preoccupied with the current political and social landscape. Things can feel hopeless and overwhelming, and instead of ignoring it, this song reminds us that sometimes it’s okay to lean in. Wild Long Lie “Wild Long Lie” explores the feelings of denial and escapism when embarking on a night out. Similarly to “Chin Up,” Fender spends most of this song running from his issues rather than handling them head-on.  He describes a night out we have all experienced at some point, where everyone has too much to drink and speaks too loudly, trying to get a word in edgewise. These nights are usually much-needed times to forget about the world’s problems with your best friends, only to result in a terrible hangover the next morning.  However, he also writes about the sobering realization that he does, in fact, still have to live with the feelings he is trying to numb. In a moment of clarity, he thinks about the changes he needs to make and worries about what is to come. This song puts its listeners in that crushing moment when you are in a bar bathroom, staring back at your reflection in the mirror. Your friends are in the next room, perhaps watering down similar feelings, but you are being forced to look  at yourself.  This is another song written for the twenty-somethings who are trying (and perhaps feeling like they’re failing) to grapple with the world.  Arm’s Length “Arms Length” is a song written for those with an avoidant attachment style, or perhaps those just looking for a hookup without any strings attached. With its melodic guitars and catchy rhythm, Fender repeatedly asks a potential lover, “Do you have to know me inside out to have a good time?”  The lyrics are reminiscent of his 2019 single, “Will We Talk?” which narrates the moments leading up to a one-night stand and the emotional ambiguity resulting from the encounter. Fender knows it is selfish of him to ask for the company of someone he will never be emotionally intimate with, but he asks anyway.  The instrumentals of this track are complex and effective. The guitar riff is particularly impressive with its intricate melody, creating an earworm of a song that is easy to put on repeat.  Crumbling Empire Never one to shy away from speaking on political matters, Fender uses “Crumbling Empire” to elaborate on how the events of the broader world directly affect those he knows at home. His writing is strongest when analyzing the areas where the personal and political collide, and this track is no different. In a song that could come across as gimmicky or “preachy,” Fender holds his own and proves he truly cares about the issues he is speaking about.  He uses this song to highlight the real struggles his family and friends have faced in the “crumbling empires” of both Britain and America as the class divide continues to grow. Where both countries once seemingly ruled the world, their flaws are more prominent than ever as they fail to care for their own citizens.  This song is less overtly angry than his other political tunes like “Aye” or “Hypersonic Missiles”, but is perhaps more palatable for those who need to be eased into political music. While his passion is still there, this song feels more conversational. Little Bit Closer Fender uses “Little Bit Closer” as an outlet to grapple with his feelings toward religion and his relationship with God. After growing up religious and having religious family members, Fender no longer believes in God and is not sure if he ever truly did.  He describes the pain that the Christian church has caused the people he loves and how he is not willing to accept a God who does not love all His people. Fender vows to stand with those who have been abandoned by God, even if it means going to Hell.  He realizes that the closest he will ever get to God is when he is experiencing love for others, and with each loving interaction, he gets, “a little bit closer.” Rein Me In Similarly to “Arms Length,” “Rein Me In” was written for those who have a tendency to self-sabotage. Reflecting on the downfall of a previous relationship, Fender must take responsibility for how he ruined a good thing.  He is haunted as memories of his lover “ring like tinnitus,” in the places they used to enjoy together. Though he longs to be emotionally intimate and give his partner the love they deserve, he is too afraid to be “reined in” by love and instead rejects anyone who gets too close. Though the lyrics are crushing, they are livened up by jazzy instrumentals. Featuring an upbeat piano and backing saxophone this is one of the more sonically unique songs on the album.  TV Dinner “TV Dinner” speaks to celebrity culture and the public’s desire to build someone up just to watch them fall. While celebrities are far from perfect and may deserve to be criticized at times, we also have to remember that they are human and deserve some level of grace.  Fender speaks to the public’s infatuation with the “next best thing” and how easy it is to demonize someone who does not live up to impossible standards of perfection. As an example, Fender mentions the hostile attitudes of the media and public towards the late Amy Winehouse, writing, “Like Winehouse, she was just a bairn / They love her now but bled her then.” When asked about this line, Fender also reflected upon the recent loss of singer Liam Payne, saying, “It’s the British culture of building them up to knock ’em down… I wrote that, then Liam Payne died. You think of the amount of times he was getting dragged through the press and he didn’t help himself, did he? …But the reality was that he was just a young lad, famous far too young, who had addiction trouble — and everyone hit him with the pitchforks.” Fender also asks himself if he is ready to face the inevitable fall from grace that the public is waiting for. A deeply private person, he worries that his secrets will also be revealed and jeered at.  Something Heavy “Something Heavy” delves deeper into the escapism introduced in “Wild Long Lie” and “Arms Length.” Chronicling another night out and another one-night stand, Fender bears witness to the burdens shouldered by the other bar patrons. As the once-high morale of his town dwindles, Fender refers to the effects the “dog” has on him and those around him. A metaphor for depression, the dog is something that he is unfortunately very familiar with.  Furthermore, Fender recognizes that many businesses continue to struggle following the COVID-19 pandemic and the rise of inflation. As the customers become shells of themselves, so do the bars. Instead of becoming places of joy and refuge, they reflect the hollowness their customers wish to escape.  Remember My Name “Remember My Name” is the final single released before the album officially debuted. Written in honor of Fender’s late grandparents, this song speaks from the perspective of his grandfather who was caring for his grandmother during her battle with dementia.  Fender’s vocals on this track are the clearest they have been in the entire project as he takes care to tell the story of their love. He reflects upon the life they created together, a home they have built upon mutual respect and admiration.  Similarly to the sentiment in the opening track, Fender describes how his grandfather showed up for his grandmother in simple ways, even when it broke his heart. Because of his love for her, he expected nothing in return but only prayed that she would remember his name in the midst of her illness. This true embodiment of love ties the entire project together and is a satisfying end to such a stunning album. Overall, this is some of Fender’s strongest work. It is filled with an elevated version of his classic sound and his most personal songwriting yet. This album took a few listens for me to digest properly, and I find myself discovering new things each time I put it on. Whether you are struggling with your mental health, fearing the loss of a loved one or trying to grapple with the chaotic state of the world, you are bound to find something on this project that you connect with. Hopefully, you can be comforted by it as well. Written By Tessa Brainard Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

Casey McQuillen is back with another confidence anthem on her newest single, "Better." "Better" is a feel-good, cheeky song about knowing your worth and settling for nothing less. It's relatable, fun, and filled with Casey's charm and wit. From the beginning, Casey's artistry focused on self-love and empowerment. She created and starred in the sensational anti-bullying tour "You Matter," for over 50,000 schools worldwide, and her music tackles themes of body positivity and mental health. And "Better" is yet another wonderful example of this. "Better" is filled with catchy fun mantras to tell yourself whenever you need a reminder that you are worth it. With "Better," Casey shows why she is one of the most necessary and important songwriters around now. Casey has a special ability to make meaningful music fun. From the very first line ("My friends all tell me do it for the plot") "Better" establishes itself as a song that doesn't take itself too seriously. Casey's strong sense of humor and tongue-in-cheek is a total blast to listen to. "Better" is just an all-around good time. The lyrics are playful and the production is an instant earworm with a groovy R&B-inspired sound. It's hard not to smile when listening to "Better" which makes the messaging hit all the harder. The lyric "I know I'll just be fine if it's just me forever" is sung with such strength and conviction that Casey makes you feel like you can be happy on your own too. "Better" is an unapologetically bold and loud self-love anthem that we could all use right now. Casey McQuillen is a singer-songwriter based in London, England. In 2014, Casey was a contestant on season 13 of American Idol, where millions of viewers fell in love with her voice and distinct personality. Since then, Casey's career has only grown bigger and brighter. As previously noted, Casey went on the “You Matter” Tour, which was a massive success. She inspired thousands of students worldwide and the tour became recognized by the UN. Her message of self-love and strength landed her a performance on the Kelly Clarkson show. Casey’s debut album  Skinny,  created several hits, including “In & Out,” which currently has almost 200,000 streams on Spotify. Casey has made a strong name for herself as an inspirational artist who champions self-acceptance and you can listen to her discography, including “Better” on all streaming platforms now.  Written By Lauren Nolan FOLLOW CASEY: Instagram   | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator