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There is no other pain like losing someone you care about unexpectedly. The shock you feel when you first hear the news is almost like you're dying with them. The energy it takes to process the whole situation is unbearable, and sometimes you don't know if you will be strong enough to make it through. You think about all the things you never got to say, all the plans you never got to do, and how you never got to say goodbye. "Unfinished Business" by Liv Miraldi is a song about trying to come to terms with the grief of losing somebody you didn't think would be gone so soon. The song is dedicated and inspired by her late mentor and publisher, Busbee , who was a Grammy-Nominated hit-songwriter and producer who passed away from brain cancer in 2019. Liv explains that Busbee gave her a boost within her dreams and was the first powerhouse person in the music industry who believed in her, and had been the reason why she was able to move to Los-Angeles shortly before his passing. "Unfinished Business" starts with an acoustic guitar, drawing you in with it's raw emotion right from the beginning. Liv sings with such a gentle tone, really showcasing the disappointment that comes along with the topic of the song. The soundscape features a classic drum, with a folk-like groove and a little bit of blues. The emotion is very dark and sorrowful, until we get towards the end of the song when everything builds an explodes into this powerful, painful climax. The progression of "Unfinished Business" really matches what it feels like when you're going through the stages of grief. You try to hold it all inside, until you just can't anymore. This part of the song is where you cry, scream and just let it all out. This is where you realize it's okay to feel the pain, because you'll never be able to move on until you let yourself experience what you need to feel. Liv Miraldi is a singer/songwriter based in Los Angeles, California. Originally from Lorain, Ohio, Liv is songwriter first and foremost and has dedicated a lot of time writing for and and with other artists such as ENHYPHEN , Lauren Spencer-Smith , Marc E. Bassy , Mod Sun , Johnny Orlando , and Natalie Jane , just to name a few! She has travelled across the world from Norway, to Sweden, to Germany to write songs. In 2017, she debuted as a solo artist with her first ever single, "Undertow". "Unfinished Business" is part of Liv's recent debut EP release, "2019" which is a collection of five songs that sum up one of the most difficult years Liv has had to face in her lifetime. "Unfinished Business" was released as the final single along with the EP, and Liv has admitted that it is her personal favorite track off of the project. If you enjoyed "Unfinished Business", I suggest listening to the rest of Liv's "2019" EP and following her on her socials below to keep up with her incredible journey. Written By Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW LIV: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube | Twitter

Coming from someone who is in love, it’s so easy to overthink all the reasons someone could leave you. Giving your heart to someone is no easy task especially when you have a past full of heartbreak. In Erin Bloomers new single “This One’s Gonna Hurt,” she expresses how deeply she has fallen for someone and how insecure it makes her feel. The track is so energetic with the beat, layered background vocals, and edm synths. I love the elemental textures in this song because it replicates Erins thoughts being all over the place as she expressed in the lyrics. This track feels like a diary entry, except you want to get up and dance. Erin said "This One’s Gonna Hurt" is for the people in love or the ones who have been. She also mentioned this is her first personal song she has put out there. She tends to write based on other people’s experiences, but she wanted to open up more of herself in her writing. As a songwriter, I know it can be hard to share your inner and most personal thoughts so I strongly admire when artists get vulnerable with their music. Erin turned her overthinking tendencies into a piece of art that I think a lot of people can relate to. We all have scatterbrained tendencies that leave us questioning if we are enough. At the end of the day we all want that special connection with someone and when we find it, we will do anything to keep it. Erin Bloomer started sharing her love of music by posting covers at a young age. She gained a lot of attention on social media, including one of the BBC producers. She got the opportunity from the producer to sing the power intros on BBC Radio 1. Erin started writing and releasing her original work which led her to feature on the “SAD Imanbek XXX Remix.” Erin also got to perform for N-Dubz and Wes Nelson during their 2023 summer tour. She debuted “This One’s Gonna Hurt” at Jackofest 2024 and the crowd loved it. Erin has been climbing in this industry for the fresh energy her music brings. If you love this song, you’re sure to love her others. Written By Emylee Herring FOLLOW ERIN BLOOMER: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

If you know me, you know I love reviewing ROSIE’s music. And I’m happy to say she’s finally out with another incredible hit that I’m sure you will all love. “Big Heart” is a slow and emotional song about embracing your emotional and sensitive side. ROSIE says she had to hide her soft-spoken side for so long. But she could learn to embrace it when she eventually found her person. I resonated with this song in a big way, but on more of a platonic level. I have a lot of trust issues with friendships, and didn’t want to seem too emotional or sensitive around some people I did consider friends back then. But then I found people that I now consider soul sisters and brothers, who won’t judge me for being sensitive. They embrace it, and that’s the exact same feeling this song gave me. Like I stated earlier, this song is slow and emotional. ROSIE’s use of the acoustic guitar really sticks out. I think if this were to be a song with a whole band, drums and all… it wouldn’t have had the same impact. But I was able to let myself fall in deep with the song, and truly focus on the lyrics. And that is because of the simplicity of the instrumentals. And it’s no surprise that I think ROSIE has an incredible voice. So I loved it when I got deeper into the song, and I started to hear her voice layering over in an almost angelic sound. I’ve reviewed ROSIE’s music a few times now, and each time, she blows me away. ROSIE’s career first began on TikTok, where she went viral for her single “Never The 1”. Last time I reviewed ROSIE, it was for her single, “Lose Me Too”. Back then, she had around 450,000 streams on Spotify. Today, that number has skyrocketed to nearly 2 million, which is an incredible feat to accomplish in half a year. Soon, ROSIE is slated to open for David Kusner’s The Dichotomy Tour. That tour kicks off September 9th, so if you want to see ROSIE absolutely kill it live, I suggest getting tickets now. Overall, this may be my favorite of ROSIE’s releases from this year. And as always, I can’t wait to hear what she releases next. Go stream “Big Heart” everywhere, today! Written By Isabel Mays FOLLOW ROSIE: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Rather than a cause for sadness, singer Fia Silena celebrates her breakup and declares, "Cheers to our breakup!" in her fresh new disco hit "Cheers Baby." Fia Silena dances the tears and heartache away through addictive funky beats in her catchy new tune. Amidst the dance party, Silena toasts her recent breakup, though others are worried for her emotionally. “People are curious, asking me if I'm okay / I'm cool but they say ‘no way,’” she opens in her first chorus. Silena assures them she has done her mourning and is ready to celebrate a new era of freedom. This exciting and empowering anthem parallels the soul and bravado of Gloria Gaynor's “I Will Survive” though twisted with its own modern style and panache. “You showed me love shouldn't be / Baby / You broke my heart / Made me a strong lady.” There's an unyielding strength in Silena’s lyrics as she marches to the beat of her drum and shrugs off anything that may intervene with her newfound freedom and happiness. Wrapped in a danceable rhythm, cool beats, and groovy pop bass lines, “Cheers Baby” illuminates a disco dancefloor with its fun and exhilarating sound. Jazzy and stylish, the song sounds like a neverending night of celebration. It hints at empowering female anthems like Dua Lipa's “Don’t Start Now” and Kelly Clarkson’s “Stronger.” The song is a comforting, feel-good tune, washing away any trivial worries or leftover sadness. Instead of wallowing in post-break-up misery, Silena crafts a song that carries her out of the pain and nostalgia, along with a new mindset as she waves goodbye. Despite its cheerful tune, “Cheers Baby” doesn't shy away from being vulnerable with its audience, but Silena admits that at one point the breakup was difficult and lonely. Nevertheless, she moves forward with this triumphant anthem playing behind her in response. “Cheers Baby” is Fia Silena’s third single, following her 2023 single “Kiss Me Before You Leave” and her debut single “Kill the Butterflies” in 2022. Her heartful ballad “Kiss Me Before You Leave” received the title of “best self-penned song” at the Thüringen Grammys 2023. Fia Silena is a German-Italian pop artist who blends pop elements and crafts piano ballads around authentic lyrics the singer writes herself. Silena was born into a family of artists and was exposed to the dance and music industry from early on finding her passion. She began dancing and singing in many German television productions and performing on theater stages. With the release of “Cheers Baby,” the 21-year-old gives her audience a fresher and positive take on the original breakup song, as she sings with strength and resilience. Silena takes a glass and cheers to the time the couple has spent together, as we likewise raise a glass to her superb triumph of a song! Written By Mia Chavez FOLLOW FIA SILENA: Instagram   | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

Find yourself wonderfully lost and full of wanderlust in “TAKE ME”, a new track from artist Ciinderella Balthazar. Going into listening to this song with no expectations, I was completely blown away and left in awe. Balthazar’s voice undeniably draws you in from the start with the professional level of craftsmanship and pure soul she’s put into this song. She cleverly uses layering to back her voice in important, crucial parts where the lyrics being sung can seemingly connect to the audience – specifically with the line, “Take me along with you.” Although there are elements of electronic music implemented that set this track apart from the realm of “easy listening” or “singer-songwriter”, there are qualities to Balthazar’s style that bring a nostalgic, warm feeling to you in the same way that these genres do. While listening to “TAKE ME”, I felt as though I’d been wrapped in a comforting embrace that many musicians strive to create. With Balthazar, it feels natural and honest – as though it flowed from her, and that these feelings could not be forced out just for the purpose of creating music.   “TAKE ME” is a song meant to inspire hope and display a message of emotional strength. While the world of pop music can branch off into many differing genres and cannot be limited to one sound, this allows people to explore and experiment with all aspects of their music. Ciinderella Balthazar not only brilliantly experiments with pop music within this song, but she additionally deserves to earn a name for herself in creating pop music with true, pure meaning and purpose. In my opinion, it is rare to find a pop artist who can not only bend genres but also connect with audiences across the board, human to human – this song does exactly that. The darker, more alternative-leaning sound of “TAKE ME”, along with Balthazar’s soulful and deeper voice, reminds me of musicians such as Florence and the Machine and Celeste. While Balthazar has created a unique sound, the overall structure and themes within her music drew me to these comparisons. As Balthazar continues to explore this sound and create eagerness to listen to her upcoming EP release this September, I cannot wait to see what areas of music she continues to delve into. Ciinderella Balthazar is a Belgian artist based in London, England. She is a singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and additionally works in the fashion industry. She aims to put art onto a blank canvas with her music, specifically working to evoke emotion with both her lyricism and detailed storytelling. Her debut single, “Holding Back”, was the beginning of a journey of self-discovery as well as the start of a navigation to inspire freedom and hope in other people. In an article posted by fashion-based website “The Deck”, Balthazar is featured wearing a red velvet single breasted suit. In the photos shown within this feature, her strong poses speak for themselves, but she is quoted saying, “To be a woman is to be completely free, wild, strong, loving and caring”. This message translates beautifully both to her fashion and musical careers, and overall embodies what Balthazar brings to the table. Written By Madison Spies FOLLOW CIINDERELLA BALTHAZAR: Instagram | Spotify | Facebook  | YouTube

Porter Robinson's long-awaited third album "Smile! :D" is finally here. While fans were expecting something more in the vein of Porter's EDM roots, what we got was something far more pop-centric. Porter originally promised us a "fun" album, focusing on the music he enjoyed making and straying from the emotional, introspective vibes he previously shared with us in "Nurture". Of course, we all know Porter can't avoid expressing his feelings. "Smile! :D" is an existential rollercoaster, highlighting life's ups and downs with an ironically nihilistic, meta-narrative. Tracklist Knock Yourself Out XD Cheerleader Russian Roulette Perfect Pinterest Garden Year of the Cup Kitsune Maison Freestyle Easier to Love You Mona Lisa Is There Really No Happiness? Everything to Me Porter Robinson is an American DJ, producer, and songwriter who began writing music as a teenager. At just the age of 18, he was signed to Skrillex's label and would release his first EP, "Spitfire", soon after. Porter's early works were far more EDM-forward, with "Spitfire" being the most adherent to traditional dubstep and electronic music. It wouldn't be until 2014 when Porter released his first full-length album "Worlds" that he would be recognized for his unique style in the music world. While "Worlds" was significantly still within the lines of EDM, there was something special about it that made it really stick with listeners. After the success of "Worlds", Porter teamed up with another rising artist at the time, Madeon, to create "Shelter" in 2016, which only fueled the fire of both artists' success. This paired with the inception of Porter's own music festival. Second Sky, in 2019, attracted more and more listeners to the fold. Porter wouldn't release another album until 2021, with "Nurture", a more expressive experimental album that hit fans directly in the feels. Finally, in July 2024, "Smile! :D" was released. So, let's talk about it! Knock Yourself Out XD "Knock Yourself Out XD" is a hilarious carefree commentary on what it's like to be in the spotlight. Porter jokes with listeners, saying things like "Wouldn't know how to brush my teeth without asking my team", clearly exaggerating the way people view him. There's some hidden emotion to this song, though, particularly in the second verse. The line "crying at the airport, I'm sorry, Can I get a pic?" seems to imply the struggles that come with fame as well. Fans aren't really aware of a celebrity's mood or emotional state. They don't really think about that. They just ask for a photo anyway. The way I interpret KYO is Porter poking fun at everyone having their own headcanon about who he is as a person, despite it being completely para-social. The song is upbeat and infectiously catchy, but there's definitely some meaning hiding between the lines. Cheerleader "Cheerleader" is this album's featured single, and it packs a punch. This is a song about a stalker, or at least the idea of a stalker. Following the ideas in KYO, "Cheerleader" expands on the concept of para-social relationships. The girl Porter describes in the song is absolutely obsessed with him, even saying "If you're not mine, I'd rather see you burn alive". It's clearly an exaggeration, but it really makes you stop and realize just how real these volatile fans can be. Regardless, there is positivity in the song. Porter acknowledges his love for his fans with the line "My cheerleader, thought she needed me but I need her". Of course, this is all speculation, as this song seems to have some really esoteric lyrics, but what I glean from it is the internal struggle between dealing with insane fans, and appreciating their dedication. Russian Roulette Where do I begin with "Russian Roulette"? This is the longest song on the album, spanning an impressive 6:28 in length. It brings back a lot of Porter's introspective style from "Nurture", taking on a severely existential tone. When life becomes stressful, we're always expected to keep smiling, to keep moving. Life loses meaning beneath all the tension. We become more reckless, and we gamble with our lives. We forget about the little things that hold meaning for us. "Russian Roulette" seems to describe the back and forth between optimism and nihilism. We can almost feel the gun lower from our heads as Porter lists all the little things that matter. Suddenly, every mundane thing holds meaning. "I wanna live. I don't wanna die.", stays the theme as the song comes to a head. It's a track full of emotion, struggle, and forced laughter, and honestly tied for my favorite on the album. Perfect Pinterest Garden "Perfect Pinterest Garden" is a commentary on the expectations of modern relationships, especially when one person is putting up a facade to keep the other interested. Everything is so superficial in 2024. Everyone wants that perfect social media life. We all pretend our lives are going swimmingly on the internet. In reality, things are more complex than that. We have to be willing to ask ourselves if we're being genuine. Are we really happy? Are we being ourselves or are we just acting a certain way to fit in? My take on this song is that it asks listeners to think about just how far they'd go, and how much of their own personality they'd sacrifice just to fit the mold. Year of the Cup "Year of the Cup" is where things get somber on this album. It's a slow reflection on the disadvantages of drinking alcohol and how it affects the people around us. Using interview clips from Lil Wayne as samples really gives listeners two sides of a controversial topic. Porter looks back on the things he regrets having done while drinking, bringing to light the importance of moderation and control. This is the other song that ties for my favorite on the album. It's a simple concept, but it puts us in a clear mindset about just how fragile we are as people and raises some important questions. How much is too much? What makes an addiction? Do I need to drink to fit in? "Year of the Cup" is a song about taking your power back and being confident in your own decisions. Kitsune Maison Freestyle "Kitsune Maison Freestyle" comes from a place of deep insecurity. We're all just "trying to look good, trying not to feel bad". Contextualized with Kitsune Maison being a designer brand, Porter focuses on the idea that we all just want to feel confident in what we wear. We're tired of being judged for our unique styles and the stigma behind things like body type. The main idea behind "Kitsune Maison Freestyle" is just that everyone should be able to wear what makes them happy without being judged. It seems to point out that maybe we're too fixated on our appearances and it's bringing us down mentally. And it's okay to take a break from that. Easier to Love You "Easier to Love You" seems like a love song on the surface, but it's actually a song about struggling with self-esteem. We've all felt like we're not enough. We compare the current version of us with our past selves. Maybe they were thinner and had more energy. Maybe they hadn't experienced trauma yet. This song is trying so hard to convey that as much as Porter knows those thoughts aren't helpful, it's really hard to escape them. It's hard to know exactly which perspective this is coming from, but to me, it feels like a letter to Porter's younger self. It seems like both a retrospective and a reminder for the future. It really would be so much easier to love ourselves if we could see how our lives improve. If we could see that our mental health, financial stability, and overall mood would improve, we likely wouldn't feel so hopeless. The music video really hammers this home with the message on the balloon in the last few seconds. "We are alive." I think if my future self could tell me anything, that's the message I'd want to hear too. Mona Lisa There are so many ways I could interpret "Mona Lisa". It's a song about a painting, right? Well, yes and no. It describes a painting. On the surface, it seems to be an ode to the artwork, with Porter complimenting things like her make-up, but there's some deeper meaning here, right? I mean there has to be. I feel like this is an allegory that goes back to the theme of para-social relationships on this album. Porter compliments the painting in ways that someone would compliment a real woman. It's exaggerated to a bizarre extent. I mean, it's a painting. And that's the entire point. We go to concerts to see our favorite artists perform because we admire the art. Assuming they know us or have any feelings in return is just creepy and weird. You wouldn't insist that you could take the Mona Lisa home just because it looks pretty and alluring, so why would you assume a performer should tolerate the same overtly forward behavior? It's one big allegory that sadly, a lot of crazed fans need to hear. Is There Really No Happiness? "Is There Really No Happiness?" is a song about nostalgia. The lyrics are cryptic, but the main theme is fairly simple. We go through life clinging to the past. We have nostalgia for the things we experienced as children. For us millennials, it's things like old video games, pizza arcades, and long summer nights playing flashlight tag with our friends. If we cling to the nostalgia too much, we start to wonder if we'll ever be as happy as we were then. It can be a struggle to find the things that make us happy when we're drowning in adult stress and dystopian politics. "Is There Really No Happiness?" is an incredibly beautiful song that I never really sat and thought about before this review, but it's hitting me harder than ever. Do we ever really get that childhood magic back, but more importantly, do we really need it back? That's the question this song asks. Everything to Me "Everything to Me" is the only true love song on this album. As a matter of fact, I listed this song a few weeks ago in the wedding song article. It's heartfelt and vulnerable, and it really just feels intimate. It carries that nostalgic energy that's so present in this album. "Everything to Me" looks back on meeting someone for the first time, mustering the courage to finally ask them out, and being awkward with them. You're just hoping that after that first date, you get to see them again. But it also conveys so much love and appreciation for the person it's talking about. There's been time to develop that strong bond and admiration for the subject of this song. When you love someone so much, nothing else matters. It's just you and them in the room. Nothing and no one can get in the way of that feeling. Thanks for sticking with me through the whole review! "Smile! :D" is an album that takes a few listens to really absorb. It's hiding so much meaning between the lines of each song and that definitely needs to be talked about more. I feel like throughout this review, I was learning more and more about the backstory behind each song. The album has almost been out for a month at this point and I'm still finding new things out about it. Porter's previous album, "Nurture" is something I note as my favorite album of all time. When "Smile! :D" came out, I wasn't quite sure what to make of it. It didn't have that immediate magic for me like "Nurture" did. I was mildly disappointed that we only received 10 songs, but now I understand why. Those 10 songs are EXTREMELY thoughtful and well-written. They confront the parts of ourselves that we don't always like to see. Sometimes that's uncomfortable but necessary. It took a while, but after giving each song a few very thoughtful listens, I can certainly see the brilliance in this album. Thanks again for reading to the end! You can hear "Smile! :D" on your favorite streaming service and let us know your thoughts on any of our socials below! Written By Shelbi Baker Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

24-year-old Finnish Singer/Songwriter, Producer, Actress and Model, Scharliina has finally released her highly anticipated debut album, "Darkness to a Fairytale". Featuring 8 tracks that span across the transition from dark to light, "Darkness to a Fairytale" is tuned to the healing frequencies of 528hz and 432hz, vibrations that are scientifically proven to benefit your mental and physical health. TRACKLIST Running Little Girl Beauty and the Beast Maybe Pieces of me 11:11 Paradigm Fairytale Scharliina has always had a natural gravitation towards the spotlight. The multi-talented artist started modeling, acting and singing around the age of 11 years old. She participated in musical theatre growing up, and attended a high school for the arts. As a teenager she began dabbling in TV and film, as well as did her first catwalk as a model at the age of 16 years old and began doing commercials. One of her most notable acting roles was in the 2024 Netflix original movie, "The Abyss" which was the No. 1 streamed movie within it's release week. In 2021, she started posting covers of herself singing on YouTube and officially released her first original single, "Running". Throughout the past few years, Scharliina has continued to release singles, which are all included within this album. The concept of "Darkness to a Fairytale" is the journey that Scharliina has taken not only as a growing artist, but within her own personal healing. Starting with her first single, the darkness, and ending with one of her most recent singles, the light, we get to witness a powerfully stunning story from beginning to finish. *TRIGGER WARNING* There are songs on this album that touch on very sensitive topics. Running The album starts with where it all began; with Scharliina's debut single from 2021, "Running". It really shows this dark place that Scharliina used to be in, and is a relatable song for anyone out there who has struggled with depression. "Running" is about when you don't know who you are, and you feel like no matter how hard you try you just get father and farther away from being your true self. Not feeling like yourself brings on this deep type of sadness that is really hard to get out of. The lyrics in "Running" also show just how important of a role music and songwriting played while Scharliina was going through this difficult time. This song features heavy emphasis on piano, and surprises you with a hip-hip inspired beat and groove. Little Girl "Little Girl" was written for Scharliina's non-profit organization, the Little Girl Project , a charity that works to protect children from sexual abuse. "Little Girl" is not only a very personal song for Scharliina who grew up with her own hardships, but it gives a voice to all those little girls out there who can't speak up for themselves. "Little Girl" brings awareness to a very serious issue that doesn't get enough relief. It's a painful song to listen to, but it's supposed to be. If it makes you uncomfortable, then it's doing it's job because nobody should have to go through the things that Scharliina sings about in this song. "Little Girl" made such a big impact, that it topped the iTunes charts in Finland, surpassing global superstar and one of Scharliina's favorite artists, Ed Sheeran . Beauty and the Beast "Beauty and the Beast" is Scharliina's most recent single release which is meant to bring awareness to domestic violence. Like "Little Girl", this song is based on a very personal true story, one that Scharliina hopes help survivors find hope and shed's light on the very critical crisis that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men face each day. "Beauty and the Beast" is a tragically beautiful song. Even though there is heavy emphasis on the lyricism, the instrumentation manages to have a cenematic tone without overpowering the message. Scharliina's raw, conversational vocals paired with the lyrics are heartbreaking but very powerful once you realize this is a song to reassure all the survivors out there that you made the right choice to leave. If you watch the video below, it ends with the simple but strong note, "Abuse Is Not Love". If you or someone you love needs help, please visit www.thehotline.org for resources. Maybe Next we have "Maybe", a hopeful cenematic ballad for anyone out there who has inner battles with themselves and needs a reminder than they can overcome whatever they may be going through. Scharliina wrote this song while going through recovery for an eating disorder, and it holds a lot of deep meaning. "Maybe" is meant to make listeners feel empowered to rise up and face their issues head on. It's a reminder that you are strong, and to never give up. This song is filled with beautiful strings, heavy drums and layers of heavenly vocals, making it an ethereal, cathartic experience that really touches the heart. I could see this song being a theme song for a movie trailer because of just how powerful and stunning it's soundscape is. Pieces of me "Pieces of me", like "Little Girl", is another song dedicated to the survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Joining forces with the non-profit organization, Protect Children , 50% of all profits made from this song are donated to the charity in support of aiding survivors in their healing journeys. "Pieces of me" is a highly emotional, yet gentle song that shines a bright light on such a serious issue we have in this world. I highly suggest watching the video, which features quotes throughout from real-life survivors. I'm not gonna lie, you might want to grab a box of tissues for this one. Scharliina's voice stands out differently in this song; she sings with a certain type of softness that really makes you feel the hurt and trauma that comes along with the words she's singing. The last line of the song feels like a dagger going straight through your heart. Listen to see what I mean. 11:11 Going into "11:11" from the other tracks, it's like a flip switches. The whole mood and vibe changes and it stands out immediately with it's acoustic guitar based sound. I think this is the part of the album where we transition into the light, or the fairytale side of things. Out of all the songs so far, "11:11" sounds the most raw, lo-fi, and stripped-down. Other than some reverb, this song is so naturally heavenly to listen to. The number or the time 11:11 is associated with angels, and is considered a good sign if you see these numbers often. Have you ever heard someone say "It's 11:11, make a wish"? That's because many believe there's magic behind the number 11:11, and that your wishes may just come true. It's also associated with protection, and is a reminder that you are on the right path. Paradigm Moving on to "Paradigm", we hear a lot of optimism and self-empowerment as Scharliina sings of breaking free from an unhealthy pattern. She finally feels stronger and happier with where she is headed in life at this point in the story. She's able to leave that darkness in the past, break out of that negative cycle she was in with herself and move towards something more positive. "Paradigm" is such a pop bop hit with uplifting lyrics, some hip-hop influence to it's beat and an EDM influenced production style. The vibe is a bit reminiscent of The Chainsmokers , specifically their songs "Closer" and "Something Just Like This". Fairytale Of course, closing out "Darkness to a Fairytale", we have the song "Fairytale". Let me tell you, what a perfect, beautiful way to conclude this project. The closure you feel when you listen to this song is so satisfying, and I bet Scharliina felt the same way when she was writing this. Self-love is such an important thing to have, and hearing Scharliina sing about having hope for a bright future and being able to love herself makes me so incredibly happy. There are a lot of lines in this song that can be uses as daily mantras and affirmations to remind yourself that you are strong and that you've got this whole life thing in the bag. Don't let what has happened in the past prevent you from enjoying what is yet to come. Mixed with a little afro-beat rhythm, "Fairytale" takes a gentle and ethereal approach to finally letting go and letting yourself heal. Scharliina's goal as an artist is to help others heal through her music; and I think she's doing just that with her album "Darkness to a Fairytale". Hearing Scharliina's story through her art not only helps others feel like they're not alone in their own struggles, but sheds light on serious issues that need to be addressed within our society. Scharliina uses vulnerability, raw emotion and honesty to create these lyrics and soundscapes that grasp at your heartstrings and make you want to take a stand. Even if you personally haven't been through what Scharliina has been through, you're able to put yourself in her shoes; and if you have been through any of these situations, you can use these songs as your own to relate to. Scharliina purposely tuned each of these songs to 528hz or 432hz, the frequencies that are scientifically proven to improve your overall health. She didn't just make this album to heal herself, she made this album to heal you; and what an incredible, selfless person she is to think of others before herself like that. Make sure to follow Scharliina below to keep up with what she's up to and what's yet to come. Written By Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW SCHARLIINA: Instagram | 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.

This song, “Better” by Victoria Staff, is a soft indie-pop song all about the struggle with mental health. Written at a time when Victoria was struggling with her own mental health journey, and was mad she wasn’t making more progress, that question of “why am I not better?” is very prevalent throughout this whole song. With lyrics like “ribs lock and my lungs press, so the bones break with each breath,” and “I love paper but I know rock,” this song conveys a struggle a lot of people can relate to: the struggle to find peace with yourself and with the world around you. No matter how much you want to feel better, and how much you think you should feel better by now, it’s a long and uncertain journey. But always remember, you aren’t alone. Click Here to Listen to "Better"! “Better” is a moody, atmospheric song that relies on understated instrumentals and strong vocals to tell its melancholic story. Starting out with a simple repeating melody, you’re pulled into the song slowly, caught by the time Victoria Staff’s soothing voice begins the first verse. The almost casual way she sings the shocking lyrics helps convey the message she’s trying to share: that these horrible thoughts are exactly what she’s used to. Light percussion picks up about halfway through the song after the first chorus, raising the tension as you float through the two and a half minutes. Overall, Victoria Staff has managed to create a perfect, soft song that sticks in your head and gets you right into your feelings. Victoria Staff is an indie-pop singer/songwriter who is currently based in Toronto, Canada. Always described as an “anxious child,” Victoria has found her own form of therapy in her passion for writing songs. Through music, she communicates with her friends, family, and the world around her. Her debut EP, Records & Honesty , was released in 2023, produced under the guidance of famous Canadian producer Dan Hosh. Since then, she’s released several more singles, including “From My Side of the Table,” “Niagara,” and now her latest release, “Better.” Use the links below to explore more of her music! Written By Morgan Fischer FOLLOW Victoria Staff: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

The road to finding yourself is a long journey with different decisions leading to different paths. The choices you make can lead to pivotal moments in your life. Once you begin the quest to find who you really are, you’re able to explore the endless possibilities the world has to offer. You can see beyond the little bubble of what you’re used to and step out of your comfort zone. Luckily, we live in a world where our differences are being celebrated, but our minds are programmed to conform to the stereotypes society has provided for us. We bend and twist ourselves to fit into the mold that grants acceptance. Being different makes you stand out in a room where people are born to fit in. “Hide” by Francis On My Mind follows the journey of self-love and acceptance to deprogram the thought that fitting in is the better solution than being authentically yourself. The song opens with “Mirrors staring back at me/ Who the hell am I supposed to be?” which is a plea from Francis, where she’s waiting to see if her reflection in the mirror will give her the answers she’s looking for. Reflections can be deceiving because we choose to believe what we see, even though there is a clear image right in front of us. It is up to Francis to decide if she is going to let the “mirror”, or in this case society’s expectations, define her or if she will embrace her true self. “I'm always not enough or too much” is how Francis believes other people perceive her, and she feels like she is not what the people around her are looking for. She believes if she blends in with whoever is being socially accepted, she will finally get the approval she's seeking. “Sick and tired of fitting in/ Just wanna feel like home in my skin” is wanting to feel comfortable and at peace with yourself. It’s the realization that everyone will have different traits that make them unique and maybe that’s not such a bad thing. Embracing these traits is one step closer to feeling like you’re at home.  The chorus takes us through the journey of self-love where Francis is “learning to let go” of the social constructs and opinions of others and “Leave it all behind”. This gives her the opportunity to genuinely express her own feelings where she can “love myself one step at a time”. Building up your confidence and self-esteem does not happen overnight; it truly takes one step at a time. “This burning that’s in my soul / Can you see the light?” could be a representation of the determination she has and that the light at the end of the tunnel is a bright one. “I set it free, yeah why should I hide?” now she can fully shine in her own skin instead of hiding behind it. She’s no longer letting her insecurities and fear of not being accepted take over. She is doing this for herself, not for anyone else. “I don't wanna be defeated but it's hard sometimes/ I know even in my weakest now I’ll be fine” is the reality of this process. She knows that it won’t be easy and there may be ups and downs, but she is going to push through. If she is really struggling, she now knows there’s a light to look for and deep down she knows she will be okay. “Hide” is the song you put on when you’re looking for motivation and comfort. The message behind the song is very relatable and it is comforting to know that this is a universally shared experience.  Produced by Diandian, “Hide” is about the desire to be yourself instead of a carbon copy of another. It’s an upbeat pop track with an electric feel. This song makes me want to dance and scream the lyrics at the top of my lungs. Her vocals drive the song forward. The way Francis sings this song almost sounds like a conversation where her frustrations only intensify her emotions. The more passionate she is, the more powerful her voice sounds. The switch in the mood of the song goes from wanting to fit in right to building her confidence. The drums and bass also help amp up the track to make it more upbeat, and the reverb of her vocals give the song more texture. The use of synths and electronic beats in the production gives this song an 80s feel. Francis On My Mind is a rising pop star and songwriter from Romania. She is originally from Onesti but is now based in Bucharest. Francis was always interested in music from a young age and credits her parents for supporting her dreams and encouraging her to pursue them. Her overall style is blending pop with 80s influences. She released her debut single “On My Mind” in 2020 which instantly became popular with people around the world. She has since released various other singles, but her popularity skyrocketed when her single “Swimming Pools” was featured in season one of Prime Video’s The Summer I Turned Pretty . Her single “I’m Alright” was featured in the HBO MAX “Get MAX with Xfinity” advertising campaign that was released in North America. Francis released her first EP “Circle of Love” in 2023 which shares a title with a single she dropped in 2021. She now has over 139,000 monthly listeners on Spotify. “Hide” shouldn’t be hidden on your playlist, check it out and give it a listen! Written By Alexa LaMalfa FOLLOW FRANCIS ON MY MIND: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook | YouTube

YDE is here with her first single of 2024, “Defense of Love”! The track is all about going lengths to defend your love and the challenges that come with that. In the first verse, YDE admits how she’s a bit embarrassed about her inability to be subtle while trying to protect her lover's “edo’d heart”. Yet, YDE forgives herself for all the things she had said and done, because at the end of the day, it was in “the defense of love.” In the second verse, she discusses the red flags in her relationship, and how she would continue to defend her lover and “put up with [their] ego’d heart”. But through the course of the song, she slowly realizes that she’s better off if she gives herself love, and YDE beautifully ends the song by saying “four letter words mean many things/I’m starting to learn love is the same”.  “Defense of Love” is one of those addicting tracks that you cannot stop listening to. It is immediately eye-catching - or in this case, ear catching. The production is filled with YDE’s ethereal harmonies and smooth synths, perfectly laid for her main vocals to take the forefront. All the instrumentation in this song sounds fresh and authentic, and a lot of the production sounds like it’s based on YDE”s own vocalizations and sound effects. In the chorus, the production picks up a bit, and she flexes her higher range as she effortlessly belts. In the second verse, there are some light acoustic guitar melodies added that help build the intensity to the next chorus repeat. And after that big, final chorus, the production is bare while she sings four letter words mean many things/I’m starting to learn love is the same”.  Breanna Yde is an Australian born, Filipino singer, songwriter, and actress. YDE got her start in her acting career at a very young age, and got her first starring role on Nickelodeon's The Haunted Hathaways  at age nine. While pursuing her acting career on screen, she acted alongside Idinia Menzel in WILD: A Musical Becoming. YDE released her first single, “ Stopped Buying Diamonds ”, in 2020, and has been consistently releasing music since then. However, her most popular track is “ BlindLife ”, which currently has over 2.5 million streams on Spotify alone. The stage is set for many more projects from YDE in the future, so make sure to be on the lookout.  Written By Lauren DiGiovanni FOLLOW YDE: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

In her latest single “Sleeptalking”, Maddie Regent explores the emotions behind giving into self-sabotage rather than confronting your concerns. On the outside looking in, your current life seems picture perfect. Most people might not believe you if you admit you no longer feel content with how you live. Your partner notices, of course, but there is only so much they can do to get you to open up. There’s something furthering the divide between you two and you can sense it, but you cannot bring yourself to confront it. They seem so foreign to you despite how kind and compassionate they are to you. You give them a small nudge, subtle hints, so they can take away the burden of self-reflection from you. At night, you stir in your sleep and word vomit your true feelings in unintelligible ways. Your partner can never quite understand you, but you know deep down that you’re unhappy. The only way you can leave is if you somehow nudge them enough to make you confess your feelings. “Sleeptalking” is an electro pop anthem that portrays a dreamlike tone that borders between earthly and ethereal. As it begins, there is an ethereal melody that is portrayed through the electronic beats and stringed instrumentation. It intertwines both practical instruments and electronics to where they are played off each other precisely. Continuous reverb ties each note together in an upbeat nature. The verse following the second chorus introduces an increase in instruments as well as volume. Breakcore reminiscent percussion merges into the single as well picking up the pace of the dreamlike beginning. Throughout this piece, the vocal performance from Regent stands out with its impressive breathy tone and occasional electro flair. These vocal flairs are prominently in the background and serve as unique harmonies and vocal engineering. The bridge is a welcome vocally distorted and musically special amalgamation of electronic beats, wisps of instrumental differences, and gradual slow down for the final chorus. Maddie Regent is a Canadian singer-songwriter currently based in New York City. Maddie first began creating music when she was just 12 years old. She dove into music as a way to express her emotions and feelings of vulnerability as an introverted child. In 2021, she released her first EP in collaboration with songwriting and production trio LIONCHILD, who have worked with artists such as Britney Spears and Calvin Harris. For her sophomore EP, Maddie began creating music with her partner Cade Hope in their home studio. One of the singles from this EP received spots on two of Spotify’s music playlists. Since beginning her career in 2021, she has garnered well-deserved attention on social media platforms such as Tiktok. Make sure to follow her on social media and give “Sleeptalking” a listen! Written By Willow Gray FOLLOW MADDIE REGENT: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

The Golden Years by Joshua Bassett via https://www.joshuatbassett.com/ If you've been waiting for Joshua Bassett to drop an album, I can say with an abundance of joy that the wait is over! The album consists of eleven tracks that give us a better look at the talent Joshua Bassett holds. Between the powerful lyrics and his smooth voice he allows us to journey through his personal experience with "The Golden Years" which is a transition period between adolescence and adulthood. Track List: Biting My Tongue The Golden Years Dancing With Tears In My Eyes Don't Let Me Down (Ft. Jenna Raine) Cherry Blossom Circles Wildfire Little Rita Would Ya Tell Me Mirror Look How Far You've Come Joshua Bassett was born in Oceanside, California. He began acting, dancing, and singing at a very young age. He has five sisters who also love to be involved in theater. Joshua Bassett was the male lead in High School Musical: The Musical: The Series which can be watched on Disney+. However, his role in the show did not define who he was. Bassett quickly broke through the barrier and signed a recording contract in 2020. He released his first single, "Common Sense", that year. Shortly after, his first single he released his debut EP "Joshua Bassett" in March of 2021 and then in 2022 he released his EP "Sad Songs In A Hotel Room." Joshua Bassett is currently on "The Golden Years" tour. Aside from making music and touring Joshua Bassett has "Sammy Sundays" which is an outreach that extends food and other supplies to those who are experiencing homelessness. Bassett has experienced many ups and downs, including a major health scare, but one thing he has been very open about is his experience with finding faith and sharing it with others. He truly is a young inspiration to those around him. Biting My Tongue Joshua Bassett starts the album off strong with the song "Biting My Tongue." For those of you who are seasoned listeners of Bassett's music, you may notice a few similar lyrics to that of his song, "Set Me Free" which was released in 2021. The song starts off in a rather soft and quiet manner. The acoustic guitar introduces the lyrics and eventually the drums as the beat picks up. As a listener we quickly understand that we're experiencing the story of a strained relationship that is no longer benefiting either party. "Biting My Tongue" allows us to tap into our emotions early in the album so we can better understand the other songs that are yet to come. The Golden Years The second song on the album is "The Golden Years," which further introduces us to the relationship Bassett reflects on in "Biting My Tongue." This time, we're given a reflection of all the good moments within the relationship. At one point, we even come to understand how much Bassett misses the story of their past relationship. With the song "The Golden Years" we're given faster tempo as well as a strong presence of drums. These elements help pull our mood from serious and slightly sad to content and more understanding. This is where we begin to experience what can only be described as the lightness or airiness of Joshua Bassett's music. Dancing With Tears In My Eyes Right off the bat, "Dancing With Tears In My Eyes" gives us a disco vibe. The song is very upbeat and groovy, it gives us something to tap our feet along to. This, however, does not change the fact that the lyrics still hold deep and powerful meaning. Joshua Bassett uses this song to compare the past relationship, he is mourning, to that of Romeo and Juliet. The song tells a story of loss and the impact of mourning something you didn't necessarily want to lose. We can also gather what it might look like to go through all the stages of a breakup and the emotions that can play a part in moving on. Don't Let Me Down (Ft. Jenna Raine) While the song "Don't Let Me Down" still gives us the upbeat feeling that we love, it also gives us a look at second chances. The whole song touches on what it's like to reflect and want to give things a second chance. At the same time we pick up on the hesitance of wanting to go back to a relationship that has hurt us. It's as if Joshua Bassett is pleading with the other person not to break his heart again. This song brings a steady tempo which brings the overall tone back to that a space in between, where we aren't necessarily sad or happy, but rather just stuck in the moment. Cherry Blossom The song "Cherry Blossom" introduces a freshness to the rest of the album. This song is probably the most upbeat, and cheerful out of all of them. This turns our attention to the feeling of crushing on someone and how it feels to understand the connection we are beginning to form with someone else. This is the song that represents the beginning stages of a relationship. The excitement that is present within the song is almost tangible, you can grasp the hope and passion that's being portrayed. Along with the acoustic guitar and drums which have been present in most of the other songs this far, we also get to hear the piano as well. The piano adds a nice touch to the rest of the song and gives you the "Cherry Blossom" vibes that you might expect. Circles "Circles" brings us back to that place of reflecting on a past relationship. The lyrics pack a powerful punch by describing the way he fell for this past lover repeatedly, despite being hurt each time. Bassett has made it very clear within numerous other songs that nothing is ever one-sided. However, this song gives us a glimpse into how much time he put into a relationship that he really wanted to work out, and ultimately how it led him in circles for years. Eventually, he had to make the decision to move on for his own well-being. This song is the perfect blend of upbeat and solemn which ties the song together like a perfectly crafted bow. Wildfire At first listen, you might think that "Wildfire" is an upbeat song, but after really listening, to the song you hear that the tone is rather gloomy. When the lyrics are applied and really thought about we notice that this is the song where Joshua Bassett begins to delve deeper into the wreckage of the past relationship that left him hurting. His soft voice paired with the gentle beat of the song gives it a power it almost leaves you speechless. There's a level of understanding for the listener because we can relate to his struggle and the pain of a relationship burning at both ends. "Wildfire" is the perfect song to listen to if you're in the processing stage of a breakup. Little Rita If you're looking for a song on Joshua Bassett's new album that will move you to tears, I would recommend "Little Rita." This song is a touching reminder to his dear friend that no matter what happens he will always be there. It's the perfect little gift for a friend that is near to his heart. The song features a soft, consistent flow that adds a special touch. The acoustic guitar creates a smooth, calm environment for the listener. You can feel the love he has for Rita in the lyrics and the way he sings them. As a listener you're likely to put yourself in the position of his friend which makes the song even more special. Would Ya Tell Me If you're like me, sometimes you just need a bit of reassurance. Joshua Bassett captures that exact feeling in the song "Would Ya Tell Me." The song features a beat that makes you want to turn up the volume and roll down the windows, it also provides deep lyrics. The main theme of the song is Bassett asking the person he's addressing whether they would tell him if they moved on or if there is someone else. Throughout the song he also touches on the fact that things have changed since the other person has left and he can't keep away the sorrow. This is a hard-hitting and relatable piece for those who have experienced those exact feelings in prior relationships. Mirror For anyone who needs a song that hits deep and really resonates with you, I would highly recommend "Mirror." When I first listened to this song, it shook me to the core because I've experienced the same lows that Joshua Bassett talks about. The whole point of the song is to recognize that sometimes we don't know who we are anymore. Bassett shares of his experience hitting a new low in his life, he felt like he couldn't face himself in the mirror. The song maintains a steady, slow, and rather sad beat, which drives the meaning of the song home. This is when Joshua Bassett becomes his most vulnerable, sharing how alone he's felt within recent years. The song gives us hope to keep pushing so we can become the best versions of ourselves. Look How Far You've Come This song closes out the album and it serves as a reflection of each track. "Look How Far You've Come" is the perfect reminder we need when we're feeling low. It offers encouragement to everyone struggling. Bassett wrote this song to remind himself that despite struggles he's made it so far and yet there's still a whole life to be lived. The song gives us a sweet, and soft end to a wonderful album about growing, learning, and accepting the past. "Look How Far You've Come" can only be compared to a warm hug when we need it most. The the melody gently sneaks up on us, like the soft touch of a hand against your cheek. When the song ends, we're left feeling encouraged, understood, and seen. Joshua Bassett has given us a gift that should not be taken for granted. He has proven to us that we have the power to overcome adversity, but more than that, he's reassured us that we are never alone. It's incredibly rare to find an artist that is able to reach you in such a deep and personal way without knowing you personally. Yet, Joshua Bassett does just that in this album. Speaking for myself, I will continue to go back and listen to "The Golden Years" and remain grateful for everything I've learned in the time that I've listened to every song. In a short amount of time Joshua Bassett has managed to make a lasting impression in the world of music. I can't wait to see what he does next. Written By Destiny Rundquist Instagram | Spotify | TikTok *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.