Some of the most fun video games out there are rhythm-based. They get us moving, train our brains, and give us a fun simulation of making music without learning a whole new instrument. That's why I've compiled this list of great music-themed video games for you to try! From 1998 to now and in no particular order, here are 10 releases you absolutely must play. Let's count them down! 10. Dance Dance Revolution (1998) DDR (Dance Dance Revolution) is the quintessential rhythm game of the previous generation. It's the original arcade game that you've probably seen at your favorite Dave and Buster's. The premise is straightforward. Step on the arrows at the right time. While the concept is simple, the maps get really complex, making for an extremely competitive and challenging experience. Releasing in 1998 and spawning multiple sequels and spin-offs over the years, DDR dominated the 2000s and is still going to this day with the latest installment, DDR World, having just released in June 2024. If you're looking for some classic Y2K goodness, upbeat J-pop tunes, and some exercise, be sure to try out DDR at your local arcade. 9. Guitar Hero (2005) Guitar Hero took the world by storm, releasing on the PlayStation 2 in 2005. This clever guitar simulator allows players to step into the role of their favorite rock musicians by pressing combinations of buttons on a guitar-shaped controller. The overall experience is a ton of fun, encouraging players to practice and raise their skill level for each song. The Guitar Hero games feature well-known classic rock songs as well as some that were new at the time of release. Although the last official release was in 2015 (Guitar Hero Live), the gameplay lives on in the fanmade customizable version of the game, Clone Hero, where any song can be edited and made into a map! If you've always wanted the experience of playing guitar without the finger pain and music theory, this is the game for you. 8. Osu! (2007) Osu! is a particularly interesting game, as it has always been open source. The game is 100% free and can be downloaded and modded by anyone. If you're a fan of DDR-style music but aren't very good with your feet, this is a great option for you. Osu! offer players multiple options for play including keyboard, mouse, drawing tablet, and touchscreen. Just like Clone Hero, anyone can make a beatmap in Osu!, so you're likely to find your favorite pop tunes amongst the hundreds of maps uploaded on the game's website. And if not, well, you can always make your own! Osu! is a haven for fast-paced J-pop, K-pop, and EDM jams with lots of anime influence. If any of that sounds interesting to you, I highly recommend it. 7. No Straight Roads (2020) No Straight Roads is one of my favorite newer games on this list. It's a rhythm-based combat game where you play as the last remaining rock band in a world of EDM. You'll use both platforming and rhythm elements to defeat wacky bosses like SAYU the V-tuber style mermaid and a robotic boyband named 1010. The characters have a ton of personality and funny dialogue that definitely made me laugh throughout my playthrough. If you're looking for a music-themed game with a great story and a killer OST, this is the game for you. 6. Hi-Fi Rush (2023) This next one is actually still on my list of games to play personally, but it has been on my list for a WHILE. Hi-Fi Rush is the newest game on this list, being released in 2023. It takes on a similar idea to No Straight Roads, combining music and combat in a story-driven experience. However, Hi-Fi Rush sports a lot of its own gameplay elements. Compared to NSR, it focuses more on platforming as well as one-on-one fights with bosses. Due to the protagonist, Chai, having a music player in his chest, everything in his life becomes synced to the beat. This makes for a fascinating concept that keeps players on their toes waiting for the next part of the story. If you're into high-energy battles but want to fight to the rhythm, this might be the one to try! 5. Metal Hellsinger (2022) Metal Hellsinger is the first game on this list that's available in VR. It's curious because there aren't very many rhythm games based around metal music. Honestly, this is the first one I've ever heard of. If you're a fan of Doom, this is most certainly the game for you. The game is a first-person shooter with a twist. Everything moves to the beat. Every slash, shot, and dodge is felt in the rhythm. I'll be honest, I'm not even a big fan of the metal genre and this game still looks incredibly fun to me, especially in VR. If you're angry and need to blow off steam by hacking and slashing some enemies, this is definitely the game for you. You get the feeling of being really powerful like in Doom but with the satisfaction of hitting the beats on time. Metal Hellsinger is a serious dopamine rush. 4. Hatsune Miku: Project DIVA (2009) Hatsune Miku: Project DIVA takes us back to a more traditional play style, using button presses and holds to hit the beats. Don't be fooled, though. This isn't always easy. It's a game that requires a lot of dexterity and offers a steep challenge. One main feature of Project DIVA is its exclusive use of Vocaloid songs. All of the game's maps are centered around songs made using Vocaloids like Miku, Kaito, Luka, Rin, Len, and more. So, if you're a big Vocaloid fan, this is certainly a treat to play. Another great thing about it is its versatility. Unlike games like DDR and Guitar Hero which require space and special hardware, Project DIVA is a series with installments on handheld consoles like the Nintendo Switch. This makes it fantastic for taking on flights or long road trips as an extra activity to kill time. 3. Just Shapes and Beats (2018) Just Shapes and Beats is a unique rhythm game released on PC and Switch in 2018. Its simplistic nature makes it really intriguing, while the gameplay itself is actually quite challenging. For each stage of the game, you play as a square. Your job is to avoid attacks from other, less friendly shapes. The experience takes the manic shooter genre to a new level, as you now anticipate each barrage of bullets based on musical queues. I think it's really clever how such a neat concept can come from such simple designs. That's what makes this one so noteworthy. It's a great little game that will have you trying again and again to beat that boss you're stuck on. And it is oh so satisfying when you do. 2. Rhythm Heaven/Paradise (2008) Rhythm Heaven (Or Rhythm Paradise in Europe) is one of my all-time favorites on this list. I remember sinking hours and hours in to this game on my DS as a kid. It's just really unique. The game features several mini-games that require tapping the DS's touch screen in different ways based on beat, rhythm, or melody. One notable thing about the game is that the DS is held sideways, with queues showing on the screen of your non-dominant hand while you tap on your dominant side with the stylus. You learn these individual mini-games as you go along, but as the game progresses, they're mixed together to test your skills. Rhythm Heaven also features some charming memorable characters and audio samples that will just get stuck in your head for years. 1. Beat Saber (2018) Finally, we're reaching the end of the list with a modern favorite. This one is exclusively played in VR, making it one of the most immersive experiences here. The objective of Beat Saber is simple. You're equipped with two lightsabers. Slash through the notes to the rhythm of the music. It's a ton of fun, but oh boy does it get tiring. If you want a workout, this is a great way to get it. Similar to Osu! and Clone Hero, Beat Saber also allows players to create custom maps for the game, so you can play any song you're willing to program. The VR aspect also makes you feel super powerful, as the sabers feel incredibly real in your hands. It's an awesome experience and it's a game I frequent regularly. If you've got a VR headset lying around, definitely give this one a try. Thanks so much for making it to the end! What did you think of the list? Are these games you might like to try? Have you already played them? Feel free to tell us what you think on one of our socials below! Written By Shelbi Baker Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

It’s hard to find a person who doesn’t enjoy the weekend. Sleeping in late, kicking your feet back, forgetting everything you got to worry about. We love the days that we get to simply be ourselves. Amanda Brecker perfectly sums this up in her new pop single ‘Saturday Vibes’. Everything about this song makes you want to grab a chair and go chill out on the beach. The lyrics do a great job of describing this carefree nature by putting listeners directly into the setting. “Catching waves in the ocean, sunbathing in the sand. Saturday vibes, let’s talk about the weather.” Simultaneously, Amanda doesn’t shy away from the realities of life and why it’s important to take time to recuperate. “I don’t want to complicate. I have enough already on my plate.” No matter who you are, you can relate to the lyrics of this song. Every element from within this song aims to put listeners at ease. Amanda Brecker’s vocals are softer than the fabric on your bedsheets. The drumbeat is tight and punchy, something that’s quite common in pop songs that possess a smooth vibe. Ironically, the instrumental is led by a herd of rock guitars. However, they’re played at a volume that perfectly complements the rest of the production. ‘Saturday Vibes’ is a sub-three-minute summer tune that is extremely radio friendly and is sure to make its way onto your playlists. Hit the play button when you’re going on a slow weekend drive, or when it’s time to enjoy a summer night sitting around by the campfire. To say that Amanda Brecker comes from a musical background is an understatement. Her dad, Randy, is 7-time Grammy award-winning trumpeter. Her mom, Eliane Elias, is a world-renowned pianist and singer. Amanda has carried on the musical passions that her parents possess and has committed to being the best singer-songwriter she can be. She’s released a handful of albums, with the most recent being ‘Dreams’ from 2023. The single ‘Man Of My Dreams’ is a standout track from that album and is sure to resonate with pop-rock fans. You can check out all of the music and keep up with the latest updates from Amanda Brecker in the links below. Written By Camden Luca FOLLOW AMANDA: Instagram   | Spotify  | Apple Music  | Facebook  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

Hannah Sears gifted us a song that allows us to explore the topic of self-perception in a deeper way. We experience the emotions that come along with feeling like we aren't enough. There's a certain point in life where we begin to compare ourselves to others, and it can cause a form of self-hatred to be present in our lives. We connect with the lyrics that say, "I saw stubborn and stupid / And destined to lose this / Looking back I wish I saw it / Like you did," because most of us have experienced those same thoughts within our lifetime. What's worse is that we can use these feelings to put up walls and push others away. It can affect our friendships and relationships, Hannah Sears describes this very thing in the lyrics, "You saw forever / Put in the effort / I put up walls / Shut you out / We could have made it work / I just made it worse / It was my fault / I still don't understand how." The most important part of self-reflection is choosing the way you proceed with your life. You have the power to change the way you see yourself and the way others see you too. "Like You Did" gives us the perfect blend of country and pop. Right out of the gate, when the music starts, we're met with the sound of the acoustic guitar, drums, and piano. The guitar and piano give the song a soft feel, which a lot of older country songs also seem to have as well. The drums elevate the beat once they are factored into the song, but not in an overwhelming way. When Sears begins singing the lyrics, it pulls all of these elements together, creating a soft yet slightly upbeat flow. Sears voice brings the perfect amount of country twang which allows the lyrics to meld seamlessly with the beat. Once it's all pulled together, this song invokes the feeling of reflection and looking back on the old while coming to terms with the new and all of the emotions that are in between. Hannah Sears currently lives in Nashville, where she continues to pursue her dream of music. Her love for music developed at a very young age. She began writing songs at the age of six and has been working on her music ever since. Her mission is to create music that connects with listeners on a deeper and more personal level. Regarding her new song, "Like You Did" she said, "This song is a heartfelt reflection on how it's often easier for others to see the good in us before we see it in ourselves. As you listen, I hope these lyrics resonate with you, reminding you of the importance of self-love and understanding." Hannah Sears gives us music that can only be described as the warmth of sunshine on a cloudy day. Keep your eyes peeled for more of her work— she's just getting started. Written By Destiny Rundquist FOLLOW Hannah Sears: Instagram | Spotify

One of the best things about loving someone is knowing all the different shades of them. You see the best and worst but it only makes you feel more connected to them. Dylan Robert expresses the importance of being there no matter what in his new single “Broken by Design.” This single navigates the introspective themes of heartbreak, friendship and romantic mistakes. With layered guitars, rhythmic drum patterns and punchy melodies, this single brings all the indie alternative vibes. The whole track feels like it belongs in an indie romance film where even through all the messy and complicated moments the characters still chose their love for each other. Dylan wrote such a beautiful message and his vocals scratch the right part of your brain. Dylan expressed that young love is a tricky terrain to navigate. Despite the warzone traps and flaws, he believes you should always stand by the ones you love. The intent of the message matters in ways we might not even realize. We love people in other ways that aren’t romantic and this is something we should and can apply to those relationships as well. The hook in Dylan’s lyrics is “It’s not your fault, you’re broken by design.” Every person you meet has baggage and it’s our choice to hold their bags and allow them in or walk away from what could’ve been great. Easy isn’t always right, the best connections come from recognizing others pain, learning about their past and being by their side. “Broken by Design,” is one out of two singles Dylan Robert plans to release this summer. His passion for music shows in the songs he crafts. Funny enough, Dylan grew up right around the corner from John Lennon and was named after Bob Dylan. If that isn’t enough proof he was meant to be in this industry, then check out his other singles “Floodlights” and “Psychos.” Dylan brings a new light into the alternative rock scene and I anticipate amazing projects from him in the future. He has a lot of gigs so check out his social media links below for more information on his shows. Dylan is a promising young artist, and one we should all pay attention to. Written By Emylee Herring FOLLOW DYLAN ROBERT: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Faith Hopkins is here with her debut single “Oops (There Goes My Heart)”! A vibrant, pop-infused country track, “Oops (There Goes My Heart)” details the unexpected encounter with a guy on what was originally planned as a girls night out. Faith starts off the song by describing this girls night out - she wasn’t putting on a pretty dress and a full face of makeup for anyone but herself, and all she had planned was a fun night with her girlfriends. All of a sudden, she sees this guy, and he immediately catches her eye, and there goes her heart. Faith is trying to stop herself, but she knows she can’t, and even admits she wouldn’t hate it if she woke up in his arms. Now she’s lost in conversation with this guy and doesn’t know where her friends are, but she “doesn’t care if they’re leaving” because this guy is about to leave too. By the end of the song, she comes to terms with the fact that she’s ready to throw her plans away for this guy, and although she didn’t plan for this to happen, she’s happy about it anyway.  “Oops (There Goes My Heart)” is a sparkly and fresh pop-country track. The song starts off with a funky, smooth electric guitar that is melty and gooey. Faith’s voice is fresh and crisp, but it still has that classic, homey country sound. There are some intricate electric guitar touches throughout the track, which adds depth and variation to the production. The production builds steadily in the song, with the push to the peak of the song being the interlude before the bridge, with an impressive guitar solo. The bridge has the most energetic and electric moments, with some higher belts from Faith and the production being amped up to the max. The production takes a step back before the final chorus, which satisfyingly leads into the final push into the last chorus and outro.  Faith Hopkins is a singer-songwriter born and raised in Huntington Beach, California. Despite growing up on the beachy West Coast, she always felt drawn to country music. At a young age, she had an affinity for music, constantly singing around the house and playing “American Idol” with her brothers. Faith attended  the Academy of Performing Arts which further fostered her talents in music. She followed her dreams after high school to Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee to study business. Although she did not study music, Faith found herself performing original music at writers’ rounds in the area and on social media. In 2024, she signed with Play it Again Music and released “Oops (There Goes My Heart)” in August. Faith has revealed she has more new music coming out soon, so if you want some new pop-country music for your favorite playlists, make sure to be on the lookout.  Written By Lauren DiGiovanni FOLLOW FAITH HOPKINS: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Website

Upon the first listen, I was enamored by Hana’s voice. Her rich sultry tone enhances the overall seductive nature of the song. In this single, Hana seeks to entice someone who is otherwise partnered up to instead be with her. “Imma steal your girl tonight,” Hana is on the prowl for a certain type of person, whether they’re with someone or not. With the feel of this song, Hana has a resolution that she's leaving this place with someone. “Tell your boyfriend bye bye bye”. There’s a taunting nature to the lyrics – on the one hand, one person will be lover less while, on the other hand, Hana will gain a lover and engage in lovely activities. “You’d think I do construction, the drills that I’m blazing.”, this song is chock full of metaphors that seem to build upon the total confidence that is highly evident in Hana’s declaration of what is to come as well as lavishing her love interest with praise. “I got a famous reputation”, here, of course, Hana references her famous parents while introducing herself to her new lover. As if to say “Yes, I’m her, but I’m interested in knowing more about you.”, or rather, more about your body. Although the lyrics do mention a secret being out, Hana’s blunt stance on what and who she wants doesn’t leave much to secrecy. One description states that this latest single is “A blazing, provocative track that promises to mesmerize and thrillingly upend, Hana Giraldo's bold new single is an unreserved declaration of self-confidence, delving into themes of identity, fame, sexuality, and public image.” There’s a sense of urgency involved in Hana’s invitation to the newfound lover, even from the tempo of the music to the lyrics, with lots of repetition going on, mainly in the chorus. This song is fun and sexy, definitely summer hit worthy and a showcasing of Hana’s musical and artistic abilities. Hana Giraldo is Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo’s daughter, I feel I would be remiss to not mention that. Like, is that not one of the biggest flexes ever, in life?!!! With this single, we as the listener see that her parents have passed on the rock star gene. Hana is a 30 year old pop star based in L.A., who, again, has the ability to flex on everyone all day everyday. Hana also embarks on other endeavors such as acting and fashion design. musical style can best be described as fusing rock, pop, and dance together for an electrifying experience. Apparently, Kyle Massey helped with the production of this song, this song is littered with icons, so its only choice was to be iconic. Hana’s online presence boasts millions of followers across her social media platforms, her accounts are also active, much to her fans’ delight. Armed with those vocals and having the production team that she has, I’m certain that Hana’s “Reputation” will always be on the up and up. Follow her on all socials below to keep up with her! Written By Keiunna Thompson FOLLOW HANA GIRALDO: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok   | Facebook  | YouTube

This moody synth-pop track marks the return of rising pop singer, Sarah Bailey, after a two year gap in releasing music. Based in nostalgia, "TAINTED PLACES" came to Bailey after she thought about all the places that were reminiscent of a past love and the moments shared there. This a feeling that many people can relate to, and the song is the perfect backdrop for a drive past a place that once meant a lot to you. Written, produced, and performed by Bailey herself, each aspect of this track contains her creativity and genuineness. Make sure to add it to your streaming library today! "TAINTED PLACES" is a look into Bailey's experience living in the same city and visiting the same places that she did with those she used to love. Through the verses, she recounts places like the "West Side rooftop," parking spots, and elevators that were home to special moments in the past. In the infectious refrain, she sings, "Are these places really that tainted / Or is it just me?" The song serves as a walk down memory lane, and it brings us into Bailey's complicated relationship with her city now that she has loved and lost inside of it. Between bright vocals and a danceable production, it's a song that everyone should give a listen. Sarah Bailey is an aspiring pop sensation from Cleveland, Ohio. She serves as the writer, composer, producer, and performer of all her own music. Her first single, "Reckless," released in 2018, and she has been on the rise ever since. If you enjoy other women in pop like Taylor Swift, Tate McRae, and Halsey, it is definitely worth checking out the rest of her discography! You can keep up all the latest information on Sarah Bailey and her music by following the social media links below. Now that she is back in the music scene with "TAINTED PLACES," I cannot wait to see what she will release next! Written By Sydney Gray FOLLOW SARAH BAILEY: Instagram | Spotify   | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

I think that there’s an underlying worry in many relationships. Your partner has a close friend, and you cant help but wonder if they have feelings for each other. That’s essentially what Sydney Dale’s new single is about, and I think it hits the message spot on. “Girl You Call A Friend” is a dreamy, emotional hit about the emotions one feels when their partner has a friend they may be too close with. I think Dale is truly and incredible lyricist. I didn’t have to struggle once trying to figure out what this song was about. They were straightforward and emotional, and I think perfect for a song like this. As I keep saying, this song had me reflecting, and it was incredible emotional. I think while yes, they lyrics played a big part in this, Dale’s vocals and the instrumentals only added to it. Dale has amazing control of her voice, that much is obvious when you hear the flawless vibrato she pushes as she continues to sing. The production and instrumentals deserve their own shout out, as well. With an acoustic guitar as the forefront, it leaves a lot of potential for what else she could experiment with. And I think what she ended up doing was perfect. It was dreamy, powerful, and hits you right in the heart. And paired with her incredible lyrics, you’re left with a piece that, dare I say, is perfection. Sydney Jacobson, or better known by her stage name Sydney Dale, is a 17-year-old singer and songwriter from Idaho. I know, I was also shocked when I learned she was only 17. She is an up-and-coming artist who has been releasing powerful singles and covers since 2021. She debuted with her single “Simple Little Things”, and since, has gone on to release a handful of other singles, and even an album! Another one of my favorites of hers is her cover of “La Vie En Rose”. I’m a big opera fan, and I loved her take on the classic. As I feel like I need to remind you, Dale is only 17 years old! She has an incredible and long career ahead of her, and I can’t wait to hear what she releases next. Go stream “Girl You Call A Friend” everywhere, today! Written By Isabel Mays FOLLOW SYDNEY: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube | Website

Taylor Deblock's long-awaited "Set Free" has quickly become embedded in our playlists as a soulful, alternative bop perfect for marking summer’s end. In this track, DeBlock sings of realized freedom, as he's just now "woke up from a bad dream" and is ready to take on the world under a new perspective. DeBlock talks about the progression of life and the discovering of one’s own identity while also addressing all of the uncertainties that come with growing up. "Set Free" is a fresh, coming-of-age track that not only fits perfectly into DeBlock's own narrative but also provides listeners with a hopeful message to take with us as we emerge from summer. With this song, we are assured that things will work out in due time, that we should embrace ourselves as well as our surroundings even if it can be overwhelming at times. DeBlock's song is a sign of change, chance, and transformation as we enter the new chapters in our lives and flourish beyond our preconceived capacity. "Set Free', in all of its enjoyability and funkiness, is a stirring track that's a soon-to-be fan favorite! "Set Free" is 3 minutes and 18 seconds of pure bliss for our ears. The song first opens with vibey acoustics accompanied by faint drums that trickle in the background, which serve as just enough to get our heads bopping and our bodies moving. When Deblock enters with his warm, rich tone, we are serenaded with sweet riffs as he establishes himself as a dexterously powerful vocalist. One of the most musically satisfying parts of the song would have to be the pre-chorus, which has this beautiful chord progression and slight pace shift that draws us in for the main melody. DeBlock presents us with a strong chorus that varies as the track keeps playing, alternating between golden high notes and a strong chest voice. Throughout the song, the listener is met with addictive minor chords that give the song a sharp edge that one simply cannot get enough of. DeBlock's "Set Free" is a jazzy gem that captures the alternative, R&B sound that we have grown to love! Wrapping up the song with an impactful bridge, tons of musicality, and a profound emotional impact, DeBlock leaves audiences with that feel-good melody stuck in our heads! Taylor Deblock is an American singer-songwriter that has been expressing his undying passion for music ever since the young age of 13! Now based in Los Angeles, the Connecticut native has steadily worked towards perfecting his craft over the years, producing and outputting uniquely memorable tracks for fans to enjoy. DeBlock's first single, "Fool", kickstarted his career and gained much popularity on Spotify, currently resting with over 400k streams! Ever since, Deblock has continued to rise and make a name for himself as an artist with a vast range, establishing his own niche with his mix of alt-pop and R&B elements. In addition to his charmingly aesthetic "Set Free", some of Deblock's other popular songs include: "Slow", "Chiquita", and "Strings"! Make sure to follow Deblock on the social media platforms linked below for more catchy content! Written By Pejah Carr FOLLOW TAYLOR: Instagram | Spotify   | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTub e

The world is filled with tragedy– and, oftentimes, in spite of the great hurt we feel for other people’s situations, there’s not much we can do about it. So, we are forced to move on with our lives, carrying on “selfishly”. Smallpools’ newest single “Socio-Empath” is a play on this concept, telling a story about a narrator who wishes they could do more, but are relegated to telling themselves that they’ll do better next time. Although this topic can be made to be darker, “Socio-Empath” is instead a lighter, alt pop track that leans more toward living and learning, and trying to do one’s best throughout life. This means lending help when you can, but also acknowledging that there’s only so much you can do. But, maybe, you can do more another time, and help more. “Socio-Empath” has everything I have ever wanted out of an alt pop song– so much so that I want to call it quintessential alt pop. The song begins with some percussion in an empty space, just echoing in your ears; and while the synth eventually creeps into the soundscape, all the instrumentals swell with the introduction. With that, you get this really amazing climb in energy even before the vocals begin. This energy remains fairly steady throughout the track, with the chorus being the highest point in the song. The verses are slightly slower, a more temperate atmosphere being built with the instrumentals, but are no less impactful as they work in tandem with the rest of the song. And when you add the songwriting to the mix, you’ll realize exactly how “Socio-Empath” is quintessential alt pop. The lyrics describe the narrator attempting to move past all that they cannot help, saying, “Carry on with my life / Another day, another vice / Next time promise we’ll do better”. These lines are from the chorus, illustrating a kind of consignment to the situation, but I love how, as the song continues, we get a moment where the narrator instead goes, “Wish I had the means to do that (we’ll do better) / Screw that”, as they decide that it shouldn’t have to be this way. We should be able to reach out and help others, but it’s poetic how the song still ends with the same chorus, as if nothing has really changed about how much the narrator can actually affect in their life. Both the energy and songwriting of "Socio-Empath" help to create an extremely dynamic song that will have you coming back for a re-listen, and you'll hear something new each time. Smallpools is an indie pop band consisting of Sean Scanlon, Mike Kamerman, and Beau Kuther. The trio first made their debut in 2013 with their single “Dreaming”, which now has over 111 million streams on Spotify to date. And since then, they’ve played in major festivals such as Lollapalooza and Summerfest, performed in arenas and on late night TV, and earned RIAA gold and platinum plaques. 2013 also saw the releases of their first two EPs: “Smallpools” and “Dreaming Remix EP”. Following that in 2015 was their debut album, entitled “LOVETAP!”, which has amassed major success. Their full upcoming album "Ghost Town Road", dropping on September 20th, declares Smallpools' bold new era while also being a spiritual heir to their very first EP, a reinvention of what started it all. "Socio-Empath" is a fantastic single to lead the way to the release of "Ghost Town Road", and for all those interested, you absolutely have to give their huge discography a listen while we await the album's drop date! Written By Alexa Leung FOLLOW SMALLPOOLS: Instagram | Spotify  | Facebook  | Apple Music

In this game called life, the feeling of moving too fast and becoming overwhelmed is all too common. Every once in a while, a reminder to stop and smell the roses is needed, and that is exactly the purpose that VUJA DAE’s latest single “slow down” serves. She tells her listeners that it's okay to take a step back and breathe, and that sometimes even she forgets. She explains that the song was originally an ode to the ocean, expressing her love for its peace and quiet. She was able to slightly adjust the meaning and open it up to all forms of calmness, like sunsets, driving down the PCH, and even vodka lemonades (whatever floats your boat, am I right?). VUJA DAE starts her song with her chorus, automatically getting her listeners straight to the point. She sings “I feel like I gotta slow down / There's something ‘bout a little beach town / Making me laugh about all of the trips I wanna take”. Almost everyone equates the beach to a place of serenity and calmness, and she goes on to describe what it means to her in the verses. She sings, “Perfect recipe / Ocean breeze and sandy floors / Sun burn / You turn me around / Hydrotherapy”. The soundscape of this track is whimsical and fun, and perfectly reflects the lightness that VUJA DAE is trying to convey. VUJA DAE is a Colorado based pop artist who has amassed almost 30,000 monthly Spotify listeners. She grew up an avid member of the church, writing and performing songs at services. Her sound combines pop, indie, and country, and reflects her upbringing and personal style. She uses her music as a way to storytell and find comfort in her personal life, and she hopes to connect her listeners through this artform. Her other singles have a similar style, along with her sole EP “Endless Summer”. Make sure to follow the social medias below to stay tuned for new music from VUJA DAE. Written By Tessa Maddaloni FOLLOW VUJA DAE: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube

Rebelling against the status quo is a tale as old as time. It's safe to say that we all have battled with unrealistic societal norms and expectations, fighting just to stay true to ourselves and be who we want to be. Sure, we all want to fit in and be accepted by those around us, but if the cost is losing ourselves in the process, then no thanks. Veda tackles this head on in her debut single, "Wannabe Me," expressing her desire to ignore all outside opinions and be herself to the fullest. The track's evocative lyrics show the artist questioning if she really must do what others expect when, in the end, she doesn't really care what they think or if she's the popular girl. Exploring the heavier side of pop, Veda seamlessly blends elements of alt rock and indie pop in "Wannabe Me." The mid-tempo ballad showcases a powerful soundscape, featuring electrifying guitar riffs, driving drums, and impassioned melodies. Veda proves herself to be a powerhouse through her masterful performance, showing off her vocal prowess as she transitions between soft verses and belted choruses. Channeling a sound reminiscent of the pop/rock icons before her, Veda's "Wannabe Me" is perfect for fans of Avril Lavigne , Skillet , Olivia Rodrigo , and Amy Lee . Kickstarting her music career at the young and impressive age of 13, Veda has already amassed quite the following in a short amount of time. The talented artist has established a global presence through her duet performances on TikTok with her dad, Bobby Amaru (frontman of Saliva ), garnering over 240 million views in less than 6 months. Their duets feature the pair covering their favorite songs and have attracted the support of well-known artists like Skillet's John Cooper, Linkin Park's Mike Shinoda, and Flyleaf's Lacey Sturm, effectively building momentum and setting the stage for Veda's music industry debut. Written By Cheyenne Johnson FOLLOW VEDA: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube