Self preservation is a natural instinct in life, and sometimes it even follows us into our love lives. The excessive need to protect yourself from being hurt even if that isn’t the outcome. Over preparing for every situation you could find yourself in, just to know you have a way out. We can start to keep a guard on our hearts through past experiences where trust was betrayed. Laura Holliday released her new single “Vigilant” about learning to be cautious in love. It’s an eye opening indie pop song with raw vocals and catchy instrumentation. It’s the perfect listen if you're one to put on extra tough armour and find comfort in knowing you aren't the only one. The world is a scary place and we keep observing that every single day. When we start to fear what’s beyond our front door, it’s easy to bring that into our personal life. Relationships and connections become scary all due to the what if’s. Laura added a lot of metaphors into “Vigilant”  like paying attention to strangers, checking locks, strategizing before speaking, etc. and comparing it to how they are in love. “Everybody wants love but no body feels safe.” Connecting with people is an incredibly beautiful gift and sometimes we just have to take a leap of faith and trust that whoever you let in will prove that. We can’t be hesitant forever when there’s that one person willing to give us the adventure we deserve. Laura Holliday is a triple threat singer/songwriter, filmmaker and actor currently based in Los Angeles. With a natural gift for arts, they attended Idyllwind Art’s Academy at the age of 16 where they got to write soundtracks for student films. Her talent didn’t go unnoticed and at 18 they got contacted by a music manager which led to LA. Laura’s debut single “Ammunition” was released in 2017, but it wasn’t until 2019 that they started performing and recording independently. They got to open for Chappell Roan at a house show which is so insane that I would fit into every conversation if I was her. They now work with Alyssa Wilkens to regularly write, produce and release music. Laura is a multi-talented artist exploring themes of trauma, gender queerness and chronic illness so give them a listen! Written By Emylee Herring FOLLOW LAURA HOLLIDAY: Instagram | Spotify  | Facebook  | YouTube

Ryan Smith's latest single, "Surprise Me," marks an exciting evolution in his musical journey, stepping away from his traditional acoustic roots to dive head-first into the realm of vibrant pop. The electrifying track captures the exhilaration of new love, its creation inspired by the joyful ambiance of a friend's wedding where Ryan first performed the song live. From its infectious rhythms to Ryan's dynamic saxophone performance, "Surprise Me" encapsulates the unpredictability and spark of a burgeoning romance. With energetic beats and a dance-worthy melody, the song is a compelling addition to the pop genre, resonating with listeners who crave both emotion and rhythm in their music. Musically, "Surprise Me" showcases Ryan Smith’s ability to transform a simple solo guitar piece into a full-fledged pop anthem, complete with layered production and irresistible hooks. The track’s infectious energy is a testament to Ryan's growing versatility as an artist, demonstrated by his seamless incorporation of the saxophone, which adds a unique flair to the song. The vibrant production captures the feeling of pure joy and excitement, reflecting Ryan's intent to convey the magic of a special connection during the early stages of a relationship. The song’s exuberant vitality makes it a standout release in Ryan's 2024 catalog, solidifying his place as a dynamic force in contemporary pop music. Hailing from Leeds, England, Ryan Smith is a versatile musician whose artistic endeavors span a wide musical spectrum. From his debut EP "Heartstrings & Hesitations," which showcased his acoustic prowess, to the high-energy pop of "Surprise Me," Ryan's journey reflects a dedication to exploring new sounds and expanding his creative horizons. As a founding member of the band Fools Arcade, Ryan has also ventured into indie rock, further showcasing his musical versatility and adaptability. With each release, whether as a solo artist or with his band, Ryan captivates audiences with heartfelt melodies and lyrics that resonate deeply. His commitment to his craft ensures that his music continues to evolve, drawing listeners into the vibrant narratives he creates. As Ryan Smith continues to innovate and create, his music remains a testament to his passion and artistic growth, promising exciting new chapters ahead. Written By Megan Cao FOLLOW RYAN: Instagram   | Spotify  | LinkTree  | Facebook  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

Bask in the uplifting feeling of togetherness that comes from RISE's song "The Way You Make Me Feel". This bright track will enthrall you with proclamations of love and devotion, recognizing the way a romance can ease the stresses of life and make you feel accepted for who you are in its lyrics. The chorus repeats the song's title boldly, with each repetition offering a heartwarming feeling of reassurance. Embracing communication and stability, this track truly embodies the comforting thrill of a long-term relationship. Let your heart race with the upbeat message of romance that pulses throughout this track. Listeners will love the way this song takes them on a sonic journey through a powerful 1980's-esque blend of sound, bold and assured just like its lyrics. Glowing ambient synth chords start off the tune with a building sense of excitement before bold electric guitar and drums join in, offering a truly uplifting introduction to this bright anthem of devotion. stayMellow's vocals are expressive and bold, loudly projecting over the instrumentals with a distinctively passionate sound. Alex Mahoney's percussion infuses the song with a vibrant energy as Brian Petch's guitar skills bring in elaborate riffs and electric chords. The various instruments in this song compliment one another, with Paul Kinley's synth talents layering an entrancing electronic element into the track. RISE is a rock-synth band from Liverpool with a dynamic alternative sound. The group is made up of Alex Mahoney on drums, Brian Petch on guitar, and Paul Kinley on synthesizer. The band collaborates with vocalist and bassist stayMellow, also known as Sam Kinley, and have released several singles and an EP since forming last year. They put out energetic music that fosters feelings of perseverance and togetherness in their lyrics and sound. The band has an upcoming show in April at MadLife Stage & Studios in Woodstock, Georgia alongside Mad Margritt. Check out the links below to keep up to date with their music. Written By Hanna Kowal FOLLOW RISE: Instagram   | Spotify  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

Dearly’s newest single is for the 20-somethings just trying to get by in the 21st century. “Broke and Gay” takes the listener on a journey through the lows of getting by when the state of the world is rough and confusing. Although that sounds depressing, Dearly takes these fears, mistakes, and hardships and turns them into an indie pop smash- all while establishing herself as a gay icon for the new age. “Broke and Gay” begins with a list of Dearly’s misfortunes- including “always feeling a little bit nauseous”, she can’t find her weed, and she ran out of time and money. Do any of these sound familiar to you? The true beauty of this track is its relatability. Despite the unique identity of Dearly, stated in “Broke and Gay” as a lesbian ex-mormon, we’ve all been in the position of needing money, your car breaking down, and all-around feeling like you’ve misguided yourself somewhere along your journey.  “Broke and Gay” is a true alternative pop track. With a mild beginning, only accompanied by Dearly’s vocals, acoustic guitar, and soft drums, we’re already anticipating what will happen next. The listener will be taken aback as the chorus begins (after the silly bit of “bumming for cigs at the lesbian bar”) with a heavy bass guitar and the crashing of drums- the music of “Broke and Gay” takes a high-energy turn that’ll get you head-banging before you realize. Along the way we are greeted with a stunning electric guitar solo that emphasizes the true alternative aspect of the track. It derives into a slow bridge, a switch that isn’t staggering but fits perfectly into Dearly’s intent for “Broke and Gay”. The chorus serves one more time as the outro, ending with the titular phrase of the song: “I’m sorry that she turned out broke and gay." Dearly is an alternative pop artist based in Nashville, TN. “Broke and Gay” is the follow up to their 2024 release “Dykes On Bikes”. Both similar in the way that they are both full of passion, energy, and alt pop melodies, Dearly is making music for those that challenge the norm. Her music is personal and sometimes hilarious, being able to make light of the struggle which at times can be difficult. Listeners of Chappell Roan , The Last Dinner Party , and Wet Leg will enjoy Dearly’s refreshing take on the alt pop scene. To see more of Dearly and their upcoming projects, you can follow her through the links below! Written By Navi Madrid FOLLOW DEARLY: Instagram | Spotify  | YouTube

Los Angeles, California based Gen Z alt. pop singer/songwriter, Cate Tomlinson has recently dropped her sophomore EP, "The Side Effects of You". TRACKLIST The Ring of Fire Half Lover MY EX FRIEND Like the boys Strawberry Moon Side Effects Originally from San Francisco, Cate Tomlinson started out playing the piano when she was younger, which turned into a passion for writing lyrics and crafting melodies. She went on to attend college in Boston, Massachusetts where she graduated from the Music Industry program at Northeastern University. During her time in college in 2022, she released her debut single, "notes app apology". She continued to release a handful of singles before graduating and moving back to California, this time to Los Angeles, where she'd release her debut EP in 2023 titled "Blueberry Season". Cate caught the attention of the indie music scene with her vulnerable storytelling and captivating soundscapes, now currently pushing 80k+ monthly Spotify listeners. With the release of her second EP, "The Side Effects of You", Cate is ready to take things to the next level by giving us her most honest and bold project yet to come. Let's get into these tracks! The Ring of Fire We kick off the EP with "The Ring of Fire", a haunting dark pop banger about how easily manipulated you can be by toxic people when you're a good person who just wants to love and be loved. Cate uses her compelling storytelling skills to create an analogy for this song, where the boy she's singing about is actually the real life devil; someone made of pure evil who is trying to get her to sacrifice herself with the promise that they'd get to be together forever in the afterlife. This is just a twisted game they play because they enjoy seeing you suffer, while you've been mesmerized and hypnotized by their enigmatic charm. It's like you're under a spell, and you can't resist the temptation even if deep down you know it's a bad idea to trust them. With a heavy bass and beat plus minimalistic alt. pop production, Cate puts heavy emphasis on stunning vocals and a very eerie atmosphere to make you feel the seriousness of this situation. Half Lover Next we have "Half Lover", which was the first single to be released last year in anticipation for the EP release, and it debuted with a music video! Shot on 16mm film by award-winning director Luigi Calabrese , the "Half Lover" music video is giving classic horror movie vibes with a twist. Let's just say, don't mess with Cate Tomlinson. "Half Lover" is about being in a situationship where you're in love with someone that is leading you on. One second they make you feel like you're the love of their life, and they next second you haven't heard back from them in days. They only want you when it's convenient for them and they have no consideration for you feelings whatsoever. This song takes a pop/rock approach with heavy electric guitar and crashing drums while still keeping dark pop undertones with synthesizers. Cate sings powerfully and unapologetically, giving this song an anthemic feel. MY EX FRIEND "MY EX FRIEND" is about exactly what it is titled. Cate wrote this song to turn a negative situation into a banger of a song, and probably one of the most catchy diss tracks of all time. Long story short, Cate was betrayed by someone who was supposed to be one of her closest friends - unforgivably betrayed. She channeled all of her hurt and anger into making this song instead of doing something else that she could regret later on. Not only would she now have a song to listen to for herself when she needed to release these emotions, but she'd now be gaining success off of the situation while her ex friend has to live with herself. Cate sings, "what a waste getting even, I could use you for success" . "MY EX FRIEND" has a hip-hop inspired beat with distorted production and a staccato hook that is just catchy beyond belief. The lyrics will have your jaw on the floor; they are written so well and you can tell that Cate needed to get this out. I wouldn't want to be this ex friend. Like the boys "Like the boys" is a wholesome gay-awakening song about finding a girl that gives you feelings in a way that usually boys do, or have in the past. There's something special about her and you catch yourself falling - and others are noticing it to. The thing is though, it doesn't bother you at all. You're just ready to finally have someone in your life that makes everything feel right. This song is a very upbeat, nostalgic pop Summer jam. It has a popping bass and is filled with bright guitars and synths. It's the kind of music that makes you want to get up and dance around your room, or go driving with your windows down. It's so exciting and celebratory. I'd say it's the most radio-worthy, commercial pop sounding song on this EP so far, in a very good way! Strawberry Moon "Strawberry Moon" holds a deep meaning for Cate and is very personal, but it's also very relatable for all of us out there who deal with our own specific season depression episodes. Cate explained that the first full moon of June is usually the color pink, and is also around the same time her Summer depression kicks in. She never fails to feel down at this same time every year, and this cycle inspired her to write "Strawberry Moon". This track is very gentle in it's nature; it takes more of a soft indie pop approach with some 60's influence. It's very raw but reverb heavy across all instruments while Cate showcases her gorgeous, emotional falsetto vocals. Side Effects Last but not least, we have "Side Effects" which is considered the focus track for the EP. This song is a ballad about the aftermath of dealing with a relationship and breakup that drained the life out of you. The healing process can be just as difficult, and sometimes when you think you're finally okay, the pain starts creeping back in out of nowhere. Sometimes you feel like no matter what you do, you're never going to escape the damage they've done to you. The track starts out with orchestral strings and slowly builds with drums, until we reach a full on rock'n'roll instrumental break down after the second chorus. The emotion continues to run high as we come back down for the outro refrain. This track was the perfect song to end the EP on. Cate Tomlinson doesn't need to prove to anybody that she is incredible. This EP is masterpiece after masterpiece; there are no skips. Her authentic, expert lyricism and honest, relatable storytelling mixed with the addicting, diverse variety of soundscapes and her beautiful voice makes for an artist that any music lover can enjoy. She's making her mark and the best part is she's still only just getting started. I can only see things going up from here for Cate Tomlinson. Make sure to follow her on her socials below to keep up on what's to come! Written By Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW CATE: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *Sponsored Post - Discovered on SubmitHub. A contribution was made to help create this article as part of a promotional campaign.

Like it or not, 10 years have already flown by since 2015, leaving us in disbelief over how fast time goes by. The year was huge for the music industry, seeing the release of several albums by influential pop artists, like The Weeknd and Selena Gomez. To celebrate the monumental year and make you wonder where the time has gone, Pop Passion has compiled a list of Pop Albums Turning 10 in 2025. 1. Beauty Behind The Madness - The Weeknd Celebrating its 10-year anniversary in 2025, The Weeknd's Beauty Behind The Madness was released on August 28, 2015, through XO and Republic Records. It was a huge commercial success for the Canadian singer-songwriter, marking The Weeknd's first number one album in the US. Beauty Behind The Madness was preceded by five singles, including "The Hills," "Can't Feel My Face," and "Earned It," and featured guest appearances by icons Labrinth, Ed Sheeran, and Lana Del Rey. 2. How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful - Florence + The Machine Following Florence Welch's year-long break from music, Florence + The Machine released their third studio album, How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful , on May 29, 2015. The indie/alt-pop album was met with positive reception, charting at number one on the UK Albums Chart, becoming the group's third consecutive number one album. Supported by four singles, "What Kind of Man," "Ship to Wreck," "Queen of Peace," and "Delilah" were released prior to the album. 3. 25 - Adele Released on November 20, 2015, Adele's third studio album, 25 , will turn 10 later this year. The album is named after a reflection of her life at the age of 25, featuring themes of nostalgia and melancholy over the passage of time. A massive commercial success for the English singer-songwriter, 25 debuted at number one in 32 countries, including the UK and US, and sold over 3.38 million copies in its first week of sales. Spawning several iconic hits, 25 was supported by the release of the singles "Send My Love (To Your New Lover)," "When We Were Young," "Water Under the Bridge," and "Hello." 4. Currents - Tame Impala Tame Impala's third studio album, Currents will be hitting its 10th anniversary on July 17, 2025. The album received critical acclaim for the Australian musical project, receiving awards like Best Rock Album and Album of the Year at the 2015 ARIA Music Awards. Supporting the release of the album, Currents spawned several hit singles, including "Let It Happen," "'Cause I'm a Man," "Eventually," and "The Less I Know the Better." 5. Blurryface - Twenty One Pilots One of Twenty One Pilots' best albums, Blurryface will celebrate its 10th anniversary on May 17, 2025. Blurryface is the music duo's fourth studio album and is their first and only release to reach number one on the Billboard 200. Staying true to their lyrical style, the alt-rock/indie-pop album features themes of mental health, doubt, religion, and insecurity. Blurryface was preceded by the release of several hit singles, including the iconic tracks "Ride" and "Stressed Out." 6. Revival - Selena Gomez Released October 9, 2015, Selena Gomez's second studio album, Revival , is set to turn 10 this year. The album was her first release through Interscope Records after her 2014 departure from Hollywood Records. Primarily dance-pop and electropop, Revival received positive reviews from critics and fans alike with the album debuting at number one on the Billboard 200. It spawned several hits, including "Good For You (ft. ASAP Rocky)," "Same Old Love," and "Hands to Myself." 7. Delirium - Ellie Goulding The third studio album by English singer-songwriter Ellie Goulding, Delirium will celebrate its 10th anniversary on November 6, 2025. Delirium was a commercial success for Goulding, debuting at number three on the UK Albums Chart and US Billboard 200. The iconic album spawned three singles, "On My Mind," "Army," and "Something in the Way You Move," and featured the hit Fifty Shades of Grey single "Love Me Like You Do." 8. A Head Full of Dreams - Coldplay Their seventh studio album, Coldplay's A Head Full of Dreams will turn 10 this year on December 4th. The album was a departure from their previous sound and style, collaborating with the likes of Noel Gallagher, Tove Lo, Khatia Buniatishvili , Beyoncé, and Merry Clayton. A Head Full of Dreams was a commercial success for Coldplay, topping the UK Albums Chart and peaking at number two in the US, Australia, Canada, and Italy. 9. Reflection - Fifth Harmony Serving as the debut studio album for American girl group Fifth Harmony, Reflection hit its 10-year anniversary on January 30, 2025. The album focuses on themes of female empowerment, romance, and heartbreak, sonically pairing the group's powerful lyricism with a mix of synthpop, hip-hop, and R&B soundscapes. Reflection was a commercial success for the group, charting on the US Billboard 200. It produced several iconic hits for Fifth Harmony, including "Boss," "Sledgehammer," and "Worth It (ft. Kid Ink)." 10. Made in the A.M. - One Direction The fifth and final studio album by One Direction, Made in the A.M. will celebrate its 10 year anniversary on November 13, 2015. It was another commercial success for the English-Irish boy band, debuting at number one on the UK Albums Chart and number two on the US Billboard 200. Made in the A.M. was a notable edition to the group's catalog, being the first album to be released without Zayn Malik and for producing the well-known hits "Drag Me Down," "History," and "Perfect." Do you remember when these albums came out? What are some of your favorites from 2015? Let us know on our socials! Written By Cheyenne Johnson Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

Rising singer-songwriter Madisyn Gifford put out her latest single, "Die Happy," on February 7, 2025. The folk-pop track is warm and nostalgic, reminiscent of the 2010s. It is perfect for fans of Colbie Caillat and those looking for the diaristic storytelling of Taylor Swift's Fearless era. After going through a dark period, she wrote this song in a moment of reprieve, feeling the excitement of rediscovering life. Even though it is only February, Gifford has already given us the song of the summer, one that is meant to be played with your windows rolled down on a warm night as you drive away from the beach. "Die Happy" is a gentle, acoustic guitar-driven track, capturing the newfound joy and butterflies of a budding relationship. Gifford's bright vocals shine over the instrumentation as she sings about the little moments in life that feel special. The refrain features the lyrics, "You smelt like orange and juice whiskey / Right before I asked you to kiss me / What's a moment you won't forget? / You say 'I think I'm looking right at it'" that really captures the romantic, joyful experience of falling for someone. Whether you are falling in love with life, yourself, or someone special, "Die Happy" is a song all about how good it feels to feel good. Madisyn Gifford is a Vancouver-based artist blending indie-folk and pop sounds into her music. "Die Happy" marks her first release of the year with plans for more songs to come out later. She put out her first single in 2020 and released her debut EP, Learning to Exist , in 2021. Since then, she has amassed over 11,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, millions of streams across platforms, and received coverage from outlets like Rolling Stone and Popternative. If you enjoyed this song, make sure to check out the rest of her discography. You can also keep up with all the latest information on Madisyn Gifford and her music by following the social media links below. Written By Sydney Gray FOLLOW MADISYN GIFFORD: Instagram | Spotify  | Facebook

We work so hard that our art consumes us. Developing and nurturing your craft has its highs and lows. Success can be measured with triumphs and losses. It’s not always a victory to come out on top, and “After The Opera” by Jude York dives into the feelings of longing, betrayal, passion, and heartbreak and the desire to close the curtain. “After The Opera” is a creative metaphor. An opera is a theatrical art form that combines music and drama. The exaggerated expressions of emotions can be reflected in relationships both personal and professional. There’s so much that happens behind the scenes. When you’re performing, you’re taking on the role of a character, you aren’t yourself and it can be an escape. When the show is over and the curtains close, you’re back to reality. The Opera that Jude is singing about can be a symbol for a toxic relationship in his life. It seems like there were always problems (in the relationship) that the average person wouldn’t be able to see. Their relationship became one for show, and their love was put on display for people to perceive but they became actors, and were no longer partners. “After The Opera” is a song about a realization that a relationship is not what it once was. That once the music stops (when the relationship ends), Jude will be able to heal and gain clarity from their time together. Produced by Jude York and Lucky West, this song is filled with the emotional highs and lows of heartbreak which is reflected through the instrumentation. Just like the relationship portrayed in the lyrics, the song itself is also one big performance. Just by watching the music video, I can see Jude’s emotion and frustration by how he sings the lyrics. I really liked listening to Jude’s voice, it was so silky and smooth. His voice has a lot of flexibility to sing in different genres and I love that this was made as a pop song, but I could also envision a jazz version of it as well. The storytelling is incredible and is perfectly displayed in the music video. I just can’t get over how clever the concept of this song is and how I was immediately hooked when I started listening. Jude York is a singer-songwriter from Australia. He was born to be a musician because his mother was an opera singer, and his dad was a jingle writer. The world got a hold of his talents when he debuted on Eurovision Australia Decides in 2022. Now as a verified artist on Spotify, he has over 416,000 monthly listeners on the platform. His songs “Those Were The Days”, “Monaco”, “Mr. Porcelain”, and “Cashew” have streams that are in the millions. It’s safe to say Jude is a rising star. I am excited to listen to his other music. Check out “After The Opera” and give it a listen! Written By Alexa LaMalfa FOLLOW JUDE YORK: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Maria Lane's "empty bed, empty sheets" captures the aching quiet of a love lost or left behind. The lyrics are drenched in vulnerability, with Lane reflecting on the stark emptiness of an unmade bed and the coldness of sheets that once held the warmth of a partner. Lines like "How do you heal a scar you can't repair?" conjure a deeply personal, almost universal experience -- the stillness that settles in after someone important has walked away. The imagery of empty sheets is powerful, not symbolizing physical space but also emotional vacancy. The song speaks to listeners who have woke up beside someone who's no longer there, and how disorienting that feels. The quiet sorrow in Lane's delivery invites us to reflect on moments of separation -- quiet nights alone, staring at the empty side of the bed, the remnants of love that feels distant. The vulnerability expressed in these lyrics resonate with anyone who has experienced the aching isolation of a relationship's end. "empty bed, empty sheets" envelops listeners in a melancholy yet intimate atmosphere, blending folk and indie elements with its sparse arrangement. The song unfold with a slow, deliberate pace. The soft strumming of an acoustic guitar creates a comforting sense of space while the subtle use of piano adds layers of depth to the track. The gentle sway of rhythm, paired with understated percussion, heightens the song's fragile mood. Lane's voice is the standout feature, with a delicate warmth that conveys vulnerability. Her phrasing is tender, almost breathless, as if she's sharing a secret with the listener. It's a song that tugs at the heart, bringing a sense of yearning and quiet grief. Maria Lane is a indie-folk artist based in Brooklyn, NY. Her musical influences include Lizzy McAlpine, Phoebe Bridgers, and Joni Mitchell. Lane's music has elements of storytelling that akin to intimate journal entries, diving into themes of trauma, mental health, and heartbreak. Her mission as an artist is to make more than just music, but to also be a beacon of comfort to listeners, reminding them that they're never truly alone. Lane's first single was released in 2021, "strangers again" and she has been releasing singles since then. Be sure to follow her on Instagram and your preferred streaming platform. I can't wait to see what else Lane has in store for the future! Written By Catherine Espejo FOLLOW MARIA: Instagram   | Spotify  | Soundcloud  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

"How's Your New Wife?" is the exemplary first single of Amy Pinkus 's discography. Personifying the phrase "right person, wrong time" into a song, the new artist reminisces on a relationship that, while perfect, had to end because her significant other went off to college. They both moved on, but she still feels nostalgic for their past relationship and wonders what would of happened if they never had to break up and were still together. She sees that her ex is married and starts to wonder how he is, as she very much misses him. Pinkus provides realistic and relatable lyrics based on a situation many other people know all too well. "How's Your New Wife?" starts off with just guitar chords before introducing the beat. It continues until the chorus, which is when the beat drops and the song transitions from indie to pop, making it genre-bending. After the chorus, when the second verse begins, it switches back to indie. The song is creative and well-produced in how it can easily have different genres flow into one another for certain parts of the song. Pinkus also has an amazing singing voice, harmonizing perfectly throughout "How's Your New Wife?". The song ends similarly to how it began, fading out with just isolated guitar chords again and Pinkus singing. Amy Pinkus is a music artist based in Toronto, Canada. After growing up wanting to make music, she began her music career on February 7, 2025 with "How's Your New Wife?". She has posted multiple song covers on Instagram, including a cover of "Video Games" by Lana Del Rey . Even with just one song out, Pinkus is already showing that she is a fantastic and very talented singer and songwriter, as well as musician, presenting her violin skills in a cover of "Kill Bill" by SZA on Instagram, as well as other violin covers. Amy Pinkus is an incredible artist and I am excited to hear more music from her! Written By Ashley Adams FOLLOW AMY PINKUS: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

"Morning Meditation" is the debut single of Kevy Anthony; a song about not letting your mental struggles get the best of you. Whether is depression, anxiety, the daily stresses of life, or all of the above, you don't have to let it control you or let it get the best of you. I know sometimes that can be easier said than done, but one thing that helped Kevy with his mental health journey was a guided meditation practice called yoga nidra , which is meant to promote deep relaxation and increases self-awareness. This acts as part of the inspiration behind this song and for the title. The other half of the inspiration comes from wanting to help others know that they're not alone. Kevy lists his battles throughout the verses, but lets his listeners know that he is optimistic about getting through them all. "Morning Meditation" is a gorgeous indie folk-pop ballad with intentional rawness within it's production and qualities; this artistic choice adds to the catharsis and emotion you feel when you listen. Kevy has such a bright and beautiful vocal timbre that is reminiscent of Conan Gray to me, a type of voice that many wish they could have. There's a guitar picking pattern that is played throughout the song, along with moments of orchestral strings. Kevy sings his own background vocals with layers of harmonies and echoes. The main melody has a sense of nostalgia to it which was reminding me a bit of Taylor Swift 's Fearless era, while the rest of the soundscape had hints of influence by Lizzy McAlpine and Noah Kahan as well. Kevy Anthony, also known as Kevin Anthony Rodriguez, is a 23-year-old independent artist, songwriter and producer from the Hudson Valley region of New York. Kevy has spent his whole life naturally drawn to music and he has always been involved one way or another. In elementary school, he would participate in plays and musicals; then he would go on to learn to play the cello through his local Stringendo program. He started gaining a passion for crafting melodies and and harmonies, which began his songwriting journey. He attended Northeastern University and graduated recently from their Music Industry degree program, which is when Kevy decided it was time to start working on his debut as an artist. Just a little fun fact, while Kevy was a college student, he was also an intern at Pop Passion Blog where he would write reviews just like this for growing artists. Beginning with "Morning Meditation", Kevy is an advocate for mental health, and hopes to use his relatable music to help fellow overthinkers, deep feelers and people in the neurodivergent community to not feel alone. This is just the beginning for Kevy, so make sure to follow him below to find out what's next! Written By Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW KEVY ANTHONY: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube

Earth to Cheska's "PART-TIME ROCKSTAR (feat. JUNO!)" effortlessly blends a catchy, upbeat rhythm with poignant, reflective lyrics. It paints a vivid portrait of the modern struggle between ambition and reality. The track is a raw, introspective look at the tension of aspiring for fame and success while balancing the daily grind of life's demands. The lyrics deftly explore the idea of identity in flux, where chasing dreams don't always equate to instant success. Earth to Cheska's vocal delivery is laced with both frustration and hope, underscoring the feeling of being caught between two worlds. JUNO!'s verse adds an extra layer of vulnerability, questioning whether the dream is worth the sacrifice. This song offers an anthem for anyone who's ever felt like a 'part-time' version of their true self. "PART-TIME ROCKSTAR (feat. JUNO!)" is a dynamic track that marries upbeat indie-pop with introspective lyrical depth. The song opens with a driving bass line and punchy drums that immediately set a determined, almost restless mood. As the verses unfold, the instrumentation remains minimalist yet textured. The delicate keyboard riffs and shimmering guitar lines create a sense of movement. The subtle synths layer in a dreamlike quality that contrasts with the more grounded rhythm section. The overall mood is optimism tinged with frustration, a duality that draws you in, like a desire to break free and the pressure to conform. It evokes the feeling of navigating the highs and lows of chasing a dream. Earth to Cheska is a musical artist based in Los Angeles, CA. She's been making music since she was 12, and was in a pop punk tween band called 'A+ Dropouts' until she was 18. Her musical inspirations include Avril Lavigne, The Beatles, and Slash. She attended UCLA and studied economics, but realized ultimately her passion was playing music. Featured on the song, JUNO! is an artist from Boston, MA, who's brought his sound across the East Coast to LA. His musical influences include Kid Cudi and Justin Bieber. Be sure to follow them on their Spotify and Instagram for any new updates! Written By Catherine Espejo FOLLOW EARTH TO CHESKA: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Website  | YouTube FOLLOW JUNO!: Instagram | Spotify