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The intoxication of romantic craving, self-doubting internal pressure, and the conflicting ideas of gluttony and desire bleed through the lyrics of "More" by Kaia Müller. This immersive track uses fire and smoke as an image for power, suffocation, and complete emersion from mentions of breath and fire, to the "rolled up jay" seducing listeners with the desire to lean into floaty bliss. Almost afraid to give into connection, the speaker expresses some apprehension to the idea of "more". This fades into all-consuming imagery with tactile and tangible lyrics like "I gave you thunder, I gave you skin. A candle in the mouth that melted right in." The sound of this indie alternative track blends folk-like resonance in the delivery of the lyrics with pacing racing and slowing with the emotion of the words they carry. Happy guitar riffs layer with glowing electronic notes and soft percussion to open the tune, creating an overall blissful atmosphere that kisses the lines of the soft rock genre. High vocals move from airy to throaty in the verse, reflecting the emotional train of thought that cycles through its lyrics with their tone. Kaia's singing grows strong and bold, projecting through the chorus, almost like she is shouting out into the greater universe. This track has a swagger of its own, exploring simultaneous bliss and unrest with a range of expressive singing with overarching upbeat instrumentals. Frantic and full-hearted, "More" is a passionate journey of metaphysical thinking, identity, and connecting that embodies the human mind in its lyrics and sound. Kaia Müller is a musician from Oregon with a half-American and half-Dutch-Indonesian heritage. Her upbringing in a rainy forest setting cast an evocative grunge shadow over her raw and intimate musical style. With expressive and emotional vocal talents and skills on the guitar, her indie pop rock sound is infused with folky storytelling and a soulful type of swagger that is uniquely her own. She released her debut single "Like a Dog" in 2024, and has collaborated with other artists like YTC on the song "Gracious". Check out the links below to keep up to date with her music. Written By Hanna Kowal FOLLOW KAIA: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok

If you're looking for a song that is bright, light, and adventurous, look no further. "DON'T LOOK BACK" by Matt Hansen not only captures all of that but it also gives listeners a sense of feeling like they can do absolutely anything. The song weaves in and out of folk and pop reminding listeners of the 2012 era of Mumford and Sons or The Lumineers while combining the modern era version of pop music like Alex Warren. All of this also falls perfectly onto Matt's voice really making this song a perfect storm for a single. On the lyrical side of things, the song preaches the idea of doing work, maybe not seeing the results immediately but reminding us that there's no need to dwell on the past or the things that we cannot change. During most of the song, an acoustic guitar is the sort of star of the show besides the smooth yet gruffness of Matt's voice. The first verse of the song introduces the point of view by pointing out different struggles that this person may be going through. One of my favorite lines that perfectly captures this says, " Still feel that phantom pain" which is such a creative way of descriptive writing. The song structure feels pretty simple but it's almost like Matt does this on purpose since the idea feels the same way. It should be simple to just take what you did in the past and leave it there. Matt even points out in the chorus how difficult this may be by saying, " I know it's harder to ignore but it can't hurt you anymore." I feel like this gives the audience leeway to let them know that he really understands them. Matt Hansen is a singer-songwriter from Los Angeles, CA known for mixing different genres of music like blues, funk, folk and pop. Performing both solo and with a band, Matt is known for being able to express concepts like emotional healing and freedom into the lyrics of songs that reach into the depths of audience members. Matt's songs have accomplished a ton including 10 of them being in the millions in terms of streams on Spotify giving him a whopping 6 million monthly listeners. You can catch Matt at shows all across the country starting November 1st. Written By Breanna M. FOLLOW MATT HANSEN: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube

Whenever the world is in need of a new pop song to brighten the world, Skylar Lee always comes through. Her latest single, “Heavy Hitter,” is a fiery anthem about knowing what you want and never settling for anything less. Throughout the track, the singer tells her muse that she isn’t looking for a fun time or a fling that will fade, but instead she’s searching for a winner that will make it to the championships with her. She is infatuated with this person, and they have her “swinging for the fences.” But, she’s not afraid to stand up for herself and fight for the love she knows she deserves. Lee expertly utilizes baseball analogies to express that she is a “heavy hitter” — someone who never accepts defeat and is willing to shoot for the stars. And if her subject isn’t that type, if they are a “quitter,” they can walk because she’s going to score that home run. Lee never misses, and she is one artist I always sit in anticipation for her next move. “Heavy Hitter” deserves to be the top of the charts with Lee as the next pick for your favorite new artist, like an MVP player at spring training. “Heavy Hitter” by Skylar Lee blends 80s synth with modern pop to craft a fresh new sound. The song begins with a chic beat, introducing the soothing bassline and a funky guitar riff. This sets the cool, chill atmosphere, flawlessly encapsulating the storyline. Lee’s angelic voice kicks off the verse where she sings: “Careful now, baby // Think before you speak.” This immediately propels the listener into the song, immersing them in the experience. They are now in the shoes of Lee’s muse, being warned to proceed with caution. Her stunning vocals drip with sarcasm and confidence, further selling the powerful message. From her lower register to her falsettos, Lee showcases her impressive vocal range and control. In the final chorus, she highlights her voice even more with stunning harmonies that complement the melody, enhancing the effervescent energy. Lee is one of my favorite independent artists due to her clever songwriting, impeccable vocals, and fierce determination. “Heavy Hitter” is another hit from the singer that proves she’s on her way to becoming the next big pop star. Skylar Lee is a pop singer, songwriter, and producer based in Nashville. From a young age, she knew music was her passion, so when she turned 17, she moved from Pennsylvania to Nashville to pursue her dream. Lee proudly wears her heart on her sleeve, which translates into vulnerable lyrics and creative hooks. Her perfect-pitch ear provides a unique talent when it comes to songwriting. She has already made impressive waves in the music industry, including being featured in Rolling Stone India for two of her 2022 tracks, “Hotel in a Hurry” and “Modern Art.” Additionally, Lee was a Top 25 finalist in the American Songwriting Competition for “Modern Art” and a semi-finalist in the International Songwriting Competition for her single, “Too Good to Be You.” Following down the path of her inspirations like Maisie Peters, Mimi Webb, Conan Gray, and Dagny, Lee continues to garner more and more fans for herself, proving that she is on track to be one of the world’s next great pop musicians. Her innate talent has earned a spot on many of my playlists, but my personal favorite is my Blondes With Bangs  playlist! Written By Karlee Skipper FOLLOW SKYLAR: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Kevin Parker has released his newest and fifth album Deadbeat with Tame Impala , a record exploring how depression takes a toll on you and why it comes to fruition in the first place. My Old Ways No Reply Dracula Loser Oblivion Not My World Piece Of Heaven Obsolete Ethereal Connection See You On Monday (You're Lost) Afterthought End Of Summer The virtuoso Kevin Parker has ran Tame Impala with his endless musical talents since 2007, and eighteen years later, still manages to do this flawlessly. Tame Impala released debut eponymous EPs in 2008, the debut album Innerspeaker in 2010, the sophomore album Lonerism in 2012, the worldwide phenomenon Currents filled with hits in 2015, The Slow Rush in 2020, and now Deadbeat in 2025. M y Old Ways The first track serves as the perfect introduction of an album, as it addresses the overall theme of Deadbeat . Parker sings about feeling inclined to turn back to the vices he once had but got rid of in “My Old Ways”. This causes him to begin traveling down into a deep pit of depression. Despite the solemn lyrics, the production is a funky melody consisting of upbeat and jazzy piano chords and a fun drum beat. It makes you want to get up and dance, and listening to several other tracks of the album will have that same effect as well, until you start paying attention to the lyrics and realize this is an album with lyrics of despair masked in cheerful production styles. No Reply One of the branches of Parker’s depression can be found on the album’s second track “No Reply”. He paints the relatable scene of not being able to leave the house and lying in bed all day because you don’t feel like you can do anything else. If you’ve personally experienced depression, you may have been in this kind of situation or something similar, where you lose all desire to do anything. In the lyrics, Parker explains that his depression got in the way of being with a potential significant other. He still likes this person, but can’t continue the relationship due to his current state, but still wants to once he heals. Dracula “Dracula” was released shortly before the month of October, and it’s the perfect song for the spooky season. Its “Thriller”-inspired production containing 80s synths and drums and vocal sound effects perfectly capture the theme of Halloween as well as partying that Parker sings about in the lyrics. He compares himself to a vampire because of his habitual behavior of going out at night, where he feels like he thrives the most. The lyrics also imply that, throughout this, he finds someone he believes he’s falling in love with and doesn’t want to be apart from, putting his friends aside to be with this person. Loser One of the first singles of Deadbeat  and a self-deprecating song, “Loser” is the epitome of Parker feeling as though he’s at his worst. The sour end of a relationship has lead him to his lowest point, essentially feeling like a “loser”, and he can’t help but continuously focus on it and feel bad for himself. This could be the aftermath of what occurred in “Dracula”; perhaps Parker’s love interest does not want to follow the same rambunctious lifestyle he does. As Parker suffers from depression, he now feels even more inclined to turn to his vices that put him in this state in the first place. Oblivion Like the previous tracks on Deadbeat , “Oblivion” comes in with production elements that pack a punch, but so do the lyrics. Parker sings about how he feels less and less confident that he’s able to be with the person he wants to be with because of his depression. However, he really wants to make it work somehow, but if he’s still unable to, his depression will take a turn for the worst and he sees himself falling into despair. This a relatable occurrence for people experiencing depression, where you feel as though if one more thing goes wrong, you’ll feel like you will reach your breaking point. Not My World The sixth track of Deadbeat , “Not My World” features a distinct production style, as it turns instrumental halfway through with the additions of more synths and instruments. Parker reiterates how he physically can’t leave the house, as his depression has worsened and he wishes he could but he is unable to. At the same time, while he wants to even try to just walk outside, he feels as though it’s not meant to be for him to do this. This could imply that Parker is experiencing agoraphobia as another branch of his depression and is longing to have the same experiences as everyone else without being afraid to leave his house. Piece Of Heaven As the title of the seventh track of Deadbeat  suggests, the production style is very lovely and sounds like a “Piece of Heaven” from how “heavenly” the synths are made to be. Listening to this song feels like you’re floating on a cloud. Parker sings about how he feels his love life has made a turn for the better, as he finally gets to be with the person he’s been longing to be with throughout the album. He explains that this is all that matters to him now. As the song concludes, the production completely shifts and becomes a piano ballad, with Parker’s vocals echoing like he’s singing in a church. Obsolete “Obsolete” truly provides such a groovy beat that is distinct to Tame Impala’s discography but is still so akin to Parker's signature sound at the same time. Parker sings about a relationship he is in which he feels him and his significant other have fallen out of love, and there’s no more chemistry. What happens in the relationship becomes repetitive and they both feels as though they’re trying to force themselves to stay together. Even though the lyrics don’t cover any positive or uplifting topics, this is yet another track on Deadbeat  with production that puts you in a dancing mood. Ethereal Connection “Ethereal Connection” begins with aggressive and powerful drums. Nearly halfway through the song, the drums fade away and you hear Parker’s exquisite vocals as he sings about not wanting his relationship to end, as he feels as though him and his significant other are meant to be, and he is eager to try to make it work. He feels comfortable and safe with this person and has always felt loved in a way he doesn’t believe he could feel with anyone else. Eventually, the drums return before they leave again, and the production becomes a masterpiece of synths that you’ve never heard before. See You On Monday (You're Lost) More 80’s synths and jazzy piano chords can be found on the tenth track of Deadbeat  “See You On Monday (You’re Lost)”. Against what he wanted in “Ethereal Connection”, Parker begins to accept that perhaps the relationship he is in is not actually meant to be, and that he and his significant other are drifting apart more than he initially thought. As she reiterates her feelings, he can understand her more and starts to agree that the relationship should end once and for all. The song’s production is unique because it doesn’t contain any drums and is like a song made for meditating, just with the addition of Parker’s amazing vocal talent. Afterthought In “Afterthought”, Parker sings about being rejected and dejected after his breakup. He feels he’s being betrayed by his ex and now can’t find a new person to be with because of her. He could be projecting onto her by saying she’s the reason for this, when it could just be himself. He could also be regretting breaking up with her and secretly wants to get back together, but knows this can’t happen, which is causing these emotions of upset. End Of Summer The last track and first single for Deadbeat , “End of Summer” is the sister song of “Ethereal Connection” with its drum-prominent production and instrumentation. It serves as the perfect conclusion for an album with its musically diverse and distinct soundscape. The lyrics completely summarize the themes of the album pertaining to how depression can take over your life and get in the way of things you were planning to do, and can even ruin the relationship you are in, which is what Parker emphasized throughout Deadbeat . I've been a fan of Tame Impala for as long as I can remember and have always loved the music Kevin Parker makes, as its likes something you've never heard before. There's no doubt he's a musical genius, which he proves time and time again with each musical project he releases, including Deadbeat . This new record is the perfect look onto someone suffering from depression and agoraphobia and how quickly it can change the course of your life, and even yourself as a person, forever. Amongst this is funky and upbeat production styles that contrast but perfectly compliment the lyrics, making this another masterpiece from Tame Impala. Written By Ashley Adams FOLLOW TAME IMPALA: Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

ARI LEE stuns with her moody latest single titled “Cruel Lover”, a track filled with the embedding of tumultuous, complicated romance and personal anecdotes in a story highlighted by a vivacious pop sound. LEE’s voice commands the entirety of this song, as if her voice acts as a conductor, and every piece of this song makes up an orchestra. Her voice is simultaneously full, soft, and powerful - much like the story behind “Cruel Lover”. LEE does a brilliant job of intricately displaying balance within an unhealthy dynamic, showing listeners the details that make it difficult to leave circumstances such as these. While her lover ultimately carries out acts that are the direct opposite of what LEE does, this person still presents positive qualities, creating conflicting emotions for LEE. With an alternative & indie edge, “Cruel Lover” mimics this confusion both in sound and in its lyricism. While LEE describes her lover as cruel, bitter, and an acquired taste, she does not leave criticism of herself out of the equation. Describing herself as a “foolish lover”, this is an example of direct opposition from her partner and adds layers to the story that make LEE all the more personable and reflects quality, thorough songwriting.  With an instrumental tone similar to the likes of artists such as Phoebe Bridgers, Clairo, etc., in combination with LEE’s unique, low-pitched, and moody voice, “Cruel Lover” is a track that will take you by surprise. Upon first listen, I was shocked that a song of this caliber & ambiance has yet to be included within a film soundtrack or played throughout the speaker systems of coffee shops & book stores. LEE has produced a track that sets her apart from other artists, especially due to her ability to show both sides of this relationship and reflect on herself. While she is not the subject matter behind “Cruel Lover”, her actions are put on display alongside her partner. This unique dynamic is one that is not often discussed within pop songs, yet it adds a fresh perspective for listeners to follow. Lines such as, “I’m such a foolish lover, begging for the summer while I’m dying from the heat”, not only show LEE’s heightened level of reflection as an artist & partner, but additionally show how someone’s poor treatment can unfortunately translate and morph into the other person questioning their own choices & actions. LEE does not shy away from this predicament and instead weaves this pain & confusion into “Cruel Lover”, birthing a track that can be a place of solace & comfort as well as a channel for anger & hurt.  ARI LEE is an emerging singer-songwriter from Hong Kong & Portugal, currently based in London, England. Growing up with a love for artists ranging from Lady Gaga and Rihanna to The Killers and The Beatles, LEE implements qualities from these artists and their music into her own work. LEE began writing songs and exploring the world of music before age 10, and just last year started the process of releasing her work. Her music includes stories inspired by her own experiences in an approachable but interesting way. She aims to be honest within every song she releases and to pinpoint specific, identifiable feelings that listeners can resonate with. In September of this year, LEE released her debut EP - “Trophy Wife in Training” - a body of work that she poured into for over a year and has set the tone to help lead to the next chapter in her story. Now, with the release of “Cruel Lover” - her latest single - LEE is putting her feelings on full display and leading toward a bright, expansive musical career.  Written By Madison Spies FOLLOW ARI LEE: Instagram | Spotify  | Facebook  | YouTube

When it seems that all is lost, and there's nowhere left to turn, you can look inside yourself and find out that maybe inner strength can carry you forward. New song by The Solid Ocean, "Invincible," is about rising from the destruction of one's previous life and using that as a chance to rebuild and start anew. It's an anthem for staying strong when beginning your life again and the song conveys this message through an almost futuristic musical style. The instrumental arrangement has an edge to it that compliments the song's intent and the melody throughout is incredibly catchy. The Solid Ocean's "Invincible" was a track meant to be used as a tool to keep spirits high when everything else seems low. A song that deserves to be shared with listeners and help them find inner strength. The idea behind "Invincible" came from The Solid Ocean's own Jo Lowery when he found himself in a new and empty apartment, ready to build something from nothing. This sentiment of overcoming past struggles and taking ownership of one's life is vibrantly portrayed in the song. The songwriting is very clear and direct, painting confidence in the choices when obstacles appear and when others express doubt. The ocean travel imagery assists the speaker's odyssey, and with the choices in the guitar tone helps with the ambiance. The chorus of "Invincible" adds a nice movement to the journey, making listeners feel as if they're strutting along with the speaker. If you had to describe "Invincible" with one word it would be "strength." The song paints strength very well, proving to outsiders that anyone can power through and complete the journey. The Solid Ocean is an act currently based in San Diego, but began in Denver in 2014. Since 2018 was the last The Solid Ocean was heard of, coming back seven years later with "Invincible" to reintroduce the music project seems very fitting. A song about staying strong and overcoming obstacles is the perfect way to continue the voyage that is The Solid Ocean. Now that The Solid Ocean is back, Jo Lowery plans on releasing more music that has been waiting in the vault for some time now. With this exciting news in mind, The Solid Ocean has taken an interesting step in coming back to the scene, and you can expect listeners waiting anxiously for the next release. Written By Chantal Charles FOLLOW THE SOLID OCEAN: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok

Feeling secure in love and relationships can take a while, especially after past ones have gone south. It can be daunting to try again and start fresh, knowing how hurt you have been. It is natural to feel like you need to put up walls and barriers, but eventually they will come back down and you will learn that not all love has to hurt. In a new single, June and Jared Henry sing about this very feeling, and their own struggles with the past. “Get Too Close” is an indie pop track, with lyrics that show the internal battle between reminiscing on past heartbreaks, while also realizing that this new love could last forever, if you only let yourself get close enough. June starts this track strong, with her emotional voice explaining how she has tried so hard to protect herself, and yet this love is slipping through the cracks. In the first verse, she sings, “Built my walls so high and I, can't let nobody in / But you got a smile that makes ′em come crashing down / And I'm mesmerized”. She goes on to sing the chorus, in which different metaphors are used to show how hurtful love can be. A storm full of rain, a fire that always leaves her burned. Henry comes in with the second verse, singing about a similar outlook to June’s, yet feeling a little more willing to take a risk. Before the second chorus, their voices blend together as they sing, showing the fear on both sides of the relationship. However, in the outro they take turns with lyrics proving that this time is different. Henry starts, stating that he knows how love has ended for her in the past, and he wants to show her how he will be different. June takes the next line, stating, “Make this different, make it something brand-new”. “Get Too Close” is June and Jared Henry’s second collaboration together, along with single “Weather”, released in April of 2024. June is a 25 year old singer songwriter from Houston, Texas, with over 215,000 monthly Spotify listeners. She recently released her EP Supernova, that showed her range and ability to create different sounds of music, as well as carrying through themes of new love, both the positives and negatives. Henry was born in West Virginia into a small fundamentalist cult, which discouraged music and self expression. Once he discovered his love for the art, it was a way to help him break free of this environment, and has now turned into the very thing he makes his livelihood out of. It has become his lifeline after losing everything, and he hopes to encourage others to search for their own path. Make sure to follow the social medias below to stay tuned for more music from June and Jared Henry. Written By Tessa Maddaloni FOLLOW JUNE: Instagram | Spotify   FOLLOW JARED HENRY: Instagram   | Spotify

Neem gives us a beautiful ballad reflecting on love lost too soon. As the listener we gather the emotion and feeling that comes with losing a person that we're deeply in love with. Everyone has to experience the first love heartbreak, which is what makes this song so beautifully relatable. One of my favorite lines says, "Am I out of my mind / Arm round a girl, not you / You walked by / We locked eyes / There was nothing I could say or do." I believe this lines showcases not only the depth of what ot means to miss someone but also the inner relfection the artist is doing while writing the song. However, the chorus sets the precedent for the whole song. We know for a fact after listening to the chorus that this song is drenched in the emotion of what it's like to be missing. The chorus says, "I miss you / Know that I'll be a friend / And I wish you / Would think this over again." As the artist is processing and trying to move on, they make it known that even in the midst of heartbreak all they want is to keep the friendship. "I Miss You," has a reflective and introspective tone. Having the artist examine himself allows for the mood to build up adding even more depth. When it comes to the mood, we're met with melancholy and hope. While we're sad we also hold out that at minimum a friendship can blossom in light of heartbreak. The instrumentation adds a certain smoothness that gives the song a finished feel. With the basic yet beautiful acoustic guitar, drums, and piano we're prepped for the strong emotion that the music holds. When you add the vocalist's , they meld a low and slow, and a high and warm range that blends well with not only the instrumentation but with each other as well. Neem brings a fresh take on a vintage vibe. The song's are rather introspective and candid. Each one paints a picture of lifes joy and tragedies with heartfelt and deep lyrics that keep your mind wandering. Neem has preformed with many different artist including Jollee, Tesh Batkins, Amela, Amira, Zola Sky, Tom Wensley and James Davies. They have also co-written many songs with the previously mentioned artist's. Neem advocates for the creative community, his ultimate goal is to improve the music industry by making it a more supportive environment. If you're looking for a sweet fall song that'll tug at your heart strings, then make sure you check out "I Miss You." Keep your eyes peeled for new music by Neem! Written By Destiny Vahrenkamp FOLLOW Neem: Instagram | Spotify  | Facebook

Ivy Bae’s latest release, “honey rose,”  pours power into delicate guitar strings and a fragile relationship. Ivy Bae expresses the common fear of breaking away from a relationship, asking, “Who am I without them?” She poetically expresses her agony, “Decompose like it’s fine/ on the weeks I’m without him he’s a shrine.” The relationship is one-sided. Ivy Bae falls apart while he thrives. But there’s an underlying question of how long she should sacrifice her happiness. Surely, independence might offer something more. The resilience to push past that fear, and the times when you can’t answer the question, point to the strength in your identity. “honey rose” is a breath of fresh air. The gentle acoustic strings flow like dandelions passing through the wind. Delicacy is where her power thrives. The tempo is slow, leaving room to breathe in and out and take small sips of a cup of tea. The melody plays with an uplifting bounce like the soft freedom on a backyard swing. Ivy Bae balances melancholy with the longing to break free and be her own person. Her whispery, tender voice resembles Half Shy's vocals that ease listeners. The background vocals sound like they’re pushing you higher. Ivy Bae, also known as Matilda Eriksson, is a songwriter and producer. Adrianne Lenker, Boygenius, and The Staves inspire her themes of love, longing, and loss. She released her debut single, “Apples,” in 2018, a slow-tempo tune that leans heavily into a vocoder. Since then, she has collaborated with AKA lisa on her 2022 single “any port,” and her 2023 single “parade.” Ivy Bae has drifted away from the subtle techno sound into folk music. Written By Taylor Sheridan Lempke FOLLOW IVY BAE: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

When you’re hooked and in love, it’s hard to give that up even when you know it’s not good for you. Maybe you know you’re being strung along, or maybe you know the chaos isn’t worth it, but every time you break up with that toxic partner and they come back, you just can’t help it. Mia Baron’s “3 Words” is her latest single, singing all about that terribly unhealthy relationship dynamic that has some of us stuck in that sick cycle. With relatable lyrics and a smooth soundscape that’ll have you humming it all day, this track has a healthy dose of introspection and lovesick logic. If you’ve ever been in one of these relationships, then you’ll instantly find “3 Words” relatable. The song is all about being on-and-off with someone to the point that it becomes a cycle. You break up, start picking up the pieces, and then fall back with your ex before you could even think about being without them. It’s a tantalizing addiction that has you hooked even though you know it’s basically the worst relationship you could be in– if you can even define it as a relationship. What makes the song even more interesting is how the narrator says that “it’s my fault, I’m not innocent”, meaning that they are partially to blame for going back even though they know they shouldn’t. Add into all of this Mia’s beautiful voice, and you’re set with a track that has an elegant soundscape that simultaneously discusses a complex yet endlessly important topic. Whether you’ve been part of one of these relationships–or have been witness to it– “3 Words” captures the frustrating essence of being trapped in toxic repetition. Hailing from Toronto, 17-year-old Mia Baron is a singer-songwriter making music that showcases the vulnerable and honest. She explores young love through the intoxicating allure and heartbreak that make those moments so memorable in those early years. Touching on self-confidence, mental health, and teenage angst, she aims to create music that others can relate to. She’s passed over 2 million streams completely independently with no label or management behind her, with her biggest single “Til Death Do Us Part” having over 800,000 streams on Spotify alone. She debuted back in 2021 with her track “Hide and Seek” and has since released a number of other amazing songs. If you loved “3 Words”, be sure to drop Mia and follow to keep track of her next projects! Written By Alexa Leung FOLLOW MIA BARON: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Renee Rapp BITE ME Tour Poster via ReneeRapp.om Reneé Rapp is commanding the stage on her BITE ME Tour across the United States and the world. The multi-threat artist - singer, songwriter, actress, and amateur comedian - is currently promoting her sophomore LP of the same name. I had the privilege of attending her show date in Los Angeles at the Kia Forum, where she mesmerized the audience and showcased her undeniable talent. From the upbeat tracks such as "Leave Me Alone" and "You'd Like That Wouldn't You," to her soothing ballads like "That's So Funny" and "Sometimes," Rapp kept the crowd hanging onto her every word. Rapp began the show with BITE ME’s lead single, “Leave Me Alone.” Similar to how it was the perfect introduction to the new album, it was the best way to open the concert. Rapp’s cheeky attitude came to life - from studio to stage. Rapp’s snarkiness and carefree spirit are two of my favorite aspects about her, and I was thrilled to see them again in person. The release of singing the lyrics such as “Took my sex life with me now the show ain’t fucking” and “Leave me alone, bitch // I wanna have fun,” in a crowd full of strangers who love the same music was a cathartic release. From that moment forward, I knew the Kia Forum was a safe haven for the next two hours. Reneé Rapp performing "Leave Me Alone" at the BITE ME Tour. This sense of safety was intensified during Rapp’s slow, ballad set when the crowd in the upper sections alerted the singer to an issue. After she noticed their lights and screaming, she paused the show to ensure the venue staff addressed the issue and refused to play until she got a thumbs-up from security. Her concern was apparent on her face as she awaited confirmation from the team. Rapp’s compassion and authenticity are other characteristics that lured me into the artist and made me stay as a devoted fan. And it was endearing witnessing this in person. Reneé Rapp performing "Sometimes" at the Bite Me Tour. Rapp knows how to entertain. From her hilarious ad-libs to her infectious dance moves, she knows how to captivate her audience. She also knows how to execute the perfect surprise. When I saw her here in 2023 on her Snow Hard Feelings Tour , she brought out one of her biggest inspirations, Bryson Tiller, to perform with her. This year, she completely blew the audience out of the water by bringing out Leon Thomas III to sing his track, “Mutt.” For those who don’t know, Thomas is a Contemporary R&B and Neo-Soul singer, songwriter, producer, and actor. By sharing her stage with this multi-talented artist, Rapp not only showcased this incredible artist but also healed many inner-children that night. Thomas played a main – perhaps the best – on Nickelodeon’s Victorious.  Seeing him live was the unexpected present we all needed. Rapp closed the night with one of my favorite tracks from BITE ME, “ At Least I’m Hot.” The cheeky song is about pushing through life’s hardships, setbacks, and lulls because even if you’re depressed, you can still say, “at least I’m hot.” The song is simultaneously hilarious and a gut-punch into the reality of life. But Rapp sings it all with a smile on her face. In the second verse, the studio recording has Rapp having a conversation with her girlfriend, Towa Bird. Bird: “How you doin', Ne? Rapp: “I’ve been doing real bad.” Bird: “Damn, but you look so fit.” Rapp: “Well, I can guarantee that.” In every show before this, Rapp had her fans or her opener help with this part of the song. However, at the Los Angeles show, the singer surprised us with something that caused the entire arena to erupt. Bird herself was front row with a microphone to bring the track to life and do her own part. Despite the sorrowful lyrics, the singer never looked happier. Rapp then brought her partner on stage for the remainder of the song to dance alongside her before closing the night out. This cute and unique aspect made the show even more special, because it showcased the singer’s personal and sweet side while maintaining her edgy and sarcastic energy. Reneé Rapp performing "At Least I'm Hot" at the Bite Me Tour. If you have not had the chance to see Rapp live, buying tickets for the BITE ME  tour is a must. Her incredible vocals are unmatched, and her stage presence is otherworldly. She somehow makes the large arena feel like an intimate venue for her closest friends. Whether you are a longtime fan or just now being introduced to Rapp, you are guaranteed a night you will never forget. And who knows, you may meet a young ex-wife for you to start a brand new life with. Tickets are available here .  Written By Karlee Skipper Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

As a long-time KPop fan and proud MIDZY, Alina Smith is a name I am very familiar with. Contributing to hits such as " Mafia In the Morning " by ITZY, " Giddy " by Kepler, and " Sweet Juice " by Purple Kiss. Smith is a multifaceted producer, singer, and songwriter, and listening to her newest single, "To Be Free," had me wanting to fly. The heavenly vocals, accompanied by a hopeful beat, hit all the marks of a successful single. I was hooked by the first line immediately. "Heart breathing heart spinning down lights weaken, but I see them now." The beauty in the lyricism had me so excited to keep listening. This song felt like skipping through a whimsical forest. The way the vocals blend with the melody was such a breath of fresh air. Music nowadays can feel repetitive when artists are constantly releasing music at the same time. This song, however, ran to my playlist. It did exactly what I love so much about music, because it felt like Smith was telling a story. We get a slow build up to an explosive chorus that showcases the hopeful mood of the song. My favorite being, "sometimes a cage looks like a key, sometimes it takes your whole life, free falling to be free." Smith has been in the music industry since she was 6 years old. After auditioning for a kids' singing group called "Aurora," her future was pretty much set in stone. Starting so young is not always a good thing, but I find it admirable that Smith continues to maintain her own sound in her music. Having experience with big groups in the KPop industry, like Red Velvet proves that she is no amature and will continue to impress. She has composed songs for artists like   Fall Out Boy , which  further shows how versatile she is. I'm so glad that this song has brought me back to her music. This single is out now, stream "To Be Free" wherever you listen to music! Written By Deanna Moody FOLLOW ARTIST: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube