A contrast to her usual, colorfully alt discography, Mae Stephens graces audiences with her solemnly powerful and candid song “You Don’t Remember Me”. "You Don't Remember Me" is just as entrancing as it is sentimental. In this track, Stephens reflects upon her childhood of bullying, trauma, and abuse. Stephens details the cruelties projected onto her childhood self but also unveils the strength and sense of self-worth she’s gained as a result. In writing such a beautifully complex song and personalizing it to her life, Stephens has impacted fans worldwide, serving as a warm guidepost in their navigations through adversity. Not only does Stephens demonstrate how her character has grown but she also how she continues to redefine herself as a person and an artist, providing a sense of hope to the masses. Countering the title of the track with a chilling “but I remember you”, Mae Stephens deepens our perspectives and opens our hearts to the harsh realities of youth and memory. “You Don’t Remember Me” is not just an acknowledgement of Stephens’ battles, but in its unwavering sincerity, it is a stand against bullies and abusers.   Mae Stephens has a special knack for writing meaningful songs that stubbornly refuse to leave our ears, meaning that "You Don't Remember Me" is no exception. A soft piano enters at the start of the song, consistently ebbing in and out of every raw verse and hard-hitting chorus. With the absence of any other special effects or instruments, Stephens gives us the opportunity to truly appreciate her authenticity, soak in the sincere lyrics, and overcome our own bitter experiences. Noting the slight variations within each repeated line, the listener is forced to fall deeper into Stephens' detailed storytelling and reflect upon their own troubles. "You Don't Remember Me" gives us a closer look into the level of poeticism and creative expertise Stephens brings to the alt pop genre, continuously setting herself apart from other artists. Through her sheer vulnerability, Stephens' voice has successfully reached and captivated listeners who hear themselves in her narrative. This emotive, 4-minute track has gradually left its impression on audiences all over the globe, reminding us fans that our past does not define the person we work to become. This fast-growing singer-songwriter shows no signs of slowing down, especially with "You Don't Remember Me" being one of the many tracks that showcase her depth as a musician on her new EP titled "Securely Insecure". After riding the highs and successes of her recent hit single, "If we ever broke up", Stephens steps back into a familiar concept that comes straight from her heart. Songs such as "Small Town Syndrome" and "Stranger" characterize the EP as a callback to the passionate character she originally entered the pop genre with months ago. Stephens' growth, variety, and individuality serve as testaments to the life she's lived and the hardships she's endured to produce such a genuine sound, amassing great popularity as a result. With hundreds of thousands of followers across various platforms, Stephens has worked to establish herself and her brand, easily becoming one of our favorite 'Artists To Watch', as VEVO acclaims. For more from Mae Stephens, click the links down below and you might just find the songs you've been looking to add to your new playlist! Written By Pejah Carr FOLLOW MAE: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok | YouTube

“Peppermint Sky” chronicles the emotional journey that comes with idolizing and loving the women in your life. Each step she takes captures her infectious energy. You watched this woman carry herself with an alluring sense of being throughout the time you knew her. Every element, down to the sweet color of her, never leaves your memory. She taught you how to move about life and which paths you should follow down, leading you to the beautiful journey you are currently embarked on. When you were both younger, you promised her everything, but time and distance made this just a dream. She will always be a part of you permanently, like you can never remove handprints from solidified concrete. Even at night, she remains as a burning light which covers your life like moonlight. Click here to listen to "Peppermint Sky"! “Peppermint Sky” is an ethereal cinematic pop anthem that carries with it a dreamy, sweet melodic tone that encapsulates its narrative. Every lyric of this single resembles an affectionate love letter to important women in the narrator’s life. The words with which Abi Carter sings have a light airiness that remains low. There are a few descriptive words within this single that compare a woman’s features to sweets such as Coca-Cola or peppermints. By comparing aspects of her to sugary sweets, the narrator’s affectionate feelings towards her are made clear. The primary instrument utilized in this single is a guitar that strums slowly along with atmospheric strings and other instrumentation. The vocalization, lyricism, and instrumentation intertwine to curate a uniquely sweet experience that perfectly captures the story being told. Abi Carter is a singer-songwriter currently based in California. She began her music journey as a child when she began learning how to play the piano. Her family has always gravitated towards music and she grew up singing in church and singing competitions. Even as she began pursuing her Psychology degree in hopes of pursuing the psychology field, she was continuously drawn to perform at bars, clubs, and even on streets. Her skyrocket into the music industry began when she auditioned for and entered into the most recent of American Idol. In May of 2024 after an intense yet rewarding journey, Carter won season 22 of American Idol. She has released a few singles to massive success after winning American Idol. She has amassed a dedicated and loyal fanbase following her successful musical journey. Make sure to follow her on social media and give “Peppermint Sky” a listen! Written By Willow Gray FOLLOW ABI CARTER: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok

In her latest single, "comfortable," aimate navigates the treacherous waters of emotional infidelity and the unsettling comfort zones that can deceptively erode relationships. Drawing from the rich emotional vein of her own experiences, the song delves into the complexities of a love that has grown too familiar, too complacent, and the heartache that accompanies when attention is sought elsewhere. With relatable themes and poignant lyrics, "comfortable" promises to resonate deeply with anyone who has ever grappled with the difficult questions posed by long-term relationships. As aimate herself puts it, this is a track that almost didn't see the light of day because of its vulnerability, but its release has revealed a shared human experience and provided a comforting sense of solidarity. The production of "comfortable" is a meticulous blend of haunting synths, soulful vocals, and evocative soundscapes that make it a quintessential sad girl anthem for the R&B genre. The initial idea for the song took root at home, where aimate felt as if the melody and lyrics surfaced from deep within her, almost as if the song had pre-existed in her subconscious. This raw and immediate creation was later polished and perfected at Platoon in Tileyard with the expertise of up-and-coming producer Anny. Together, they crafted a sonic environment that mirrors the song's emotional depth: the synths are tear-jerking, the vocals are stunningly emotive, and the overall composition invites listeners into a reflective space where they can truly absorb and ponder the lyrics. Hailing originally from Portsmouth and now residing in Folkestone, Kent, aimate is a singer and keyboard player whose musical journey has been as diverse as it is impressive. After years of performing and writing for other artists, including notable gigs with 90's Britpop legends Sleeper and providing backing vocals for indie/folk artist Morning Tourist and social media pop star Rachel Grae, aimate has carved a unique niche for herself. Her sound, influenced by artists like Nao, Mahalia, Hailey Knox, and Sinead Harnett, is a blend of R&B and indie-pop that stands out for its authenticity and emotional transparency. Despite battling anxiety and fear, she has built a community of support that has encouraged her to continue sharing her art. Her first single, "please," garnered attention on local BBC stations, and with "comfortable," she continues to cement her place as a voice worth paying attention to in the industry. Written By Megan Cao FOLLOW AIMATE: Instagram   | Spotify  | TikTok   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

As the guitar strums, Dani sings her heart out letting the listener in on her pain concerning this former lover. “You think it’s a game boy.” There’s a certain contrast between the angsty lyrics and the somber sounding guitar that grants this song layers to the feelings that Dani is both feeling and conveying to us, the listeners. “Think it’s time to pay your debt.” Dani is making this former lover answer for his crimes by drawing a definitive line in the sand letting him know the game is over and, as Dani puts it, she’s won. The antagonist may have thought there was no more fight left, but the protagonist says she “swears to break” them at “their best”. So, in that moment where the antagonist thinks he’s accomplished ultimate victory, the protagonist was simply waiting on their cue to turn the tables and get the “pretty boy” once and for all. The “ooh” at the beginning of the chorus is easy to sing along to. The second layer sees more angst in Dani’s voice to accompany the angst felt in the lyrics. In an official description of the song, it’s written ““Pretty Boy” is a dark, maniacal story about seeking revenge on someone who has hurt you. The protagonist is taking on the role of “vigilante” as they hunt down the boy who has wronged them. The twisted tale does not specify what he has done but focuses on the chaotic fury that has brewed in the protagonist.” The rhyming present in the song is not overdone but a great touch, it’s steady like footsteps, as if we’re joining the protagonist on the hunt and they’re keeping up with their target as they cause more chaos. "There's blood on my fingers, the deed has been done.” What an ending to such a haunting song, the protagonist relishes in their victory and the defeat of the “pretty boy”. This is certainly an important contrast as the beginning of the song saw the antagonist in their twisted element with blood on their fingers, so, the protagonist has switched the roles and gone from prey to predator. But, the final word, the final taunt, is the use of the word “pretty boy”. The protagonist wants the antagonist to feel and taste the defeat as they’re beaten at their own “game”. Dani Black is described as a singer, songwriter, and storyteller. The 20-year-old Canadian songstress is credited as being a prolific songwriter and also with writing 200 songs just this year. The fact that “Pretty Boy” is Black’s debut single surely attests to that. The song showcases her skill as a songwriter as well as vocalist. Black’s social media presence has racked up thousands of followers across the platforms. Dani is quoted as saying “ I want to connect with as many people as possible musically. That’s what’s important to me.” With a mindset like that and credits already under her belt ranging from having over 400 hours of onstage solo presence by the age of 15 years old to achieving Tik Tok virality with a 20 second song cover to having a show that sold out in less than 50 minutes, Black’s debut is sure to add to her growing list of accomplishments. Black’s music is best described as folk pop. Black remains one to watch, if you want to keep watching, follow her on all socials below! Written By Keiunna Thompson FOLLOW DANI BLACK: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

“Backseat” is the focus track of Liang Lawrence’s latest EP “What’s Dead And Gone”. I last reviewed her 2024 single “Use Me”, which is now part of this EP, and I am so glad to say that I am excited to be back to listen to “Backseat”. Painting a picture of childhood, this track gently combines indie, neo-folk, and alt pop as the personal details of a coming-of-age story are spelled by its elegant songwriting. Growing up is always tough, but a particularly rough part is when we begin to realize that we need to shed the ideals that we had for the people around us. The dawning knowledge that everyone is human, and that even the people we’ve looked up to are just regular folks, might make us freeze and feel like we’ve been left behind. But, it’s simply a part of life, being in that vulnerable place; “Backseat” is a dedication to moving past this and reflecting on it. “Backseat” is a gorgeous mixture of all the best parts of indie, folk, and alt pop; you’ve got these soft acoustic strings, light synth, and temperate percussion to match. Everything about the song’s soundscape is just so gentle, like a comforting gesture. It’s a hug, a hand held, or a smile– the instrumental’s kindness is highlighted throughout the runtime as it swells during the chorus, but eventually makes room for Liang’s vocals to spotlight them. An especially lovely moment between the instrumentals and vocals was around 2:45 when the soundscape plays with the negative space of sound. The emptiness of it, with only guitar strings to fill it, along with Liang’s vocals, underscores the songwriting and the meaning behind its words. Liang’s songwriting is always superb, and of course “Backseat” is no exception. The narrator tells the story of a person they once looked up to, someone who helped tie their shoes, ride a bike, and scared away the monsters beneath their bed. We’re not told exactly what this person did, except that the narrator has lost faith in them. The rose-tinted glasses are gone, and the narrator asks, “If you loved me / why’d you leave me / in the backseat?” I adored the metaphor that came with this imagery: the narrator saying, “roll the windows down / so I know.” If the closed windows represent the narrator’s belief in this person, then the act of opening them is the realization and the understanding that they were not who they thought they were. It’s a really beautiful piece of writing. “Backseat” is both technically and poetically fantastic, its composition in all facets being an excellent illustration of what it means to come to terms with how your childhood may not have been everything you thought it was. And that's okay. Liang Lawrence is a singer-songwriter whose music has a comforting quality to it that allows for everyone to find themselves in it. Due to her having grown up in eight different countries before eighteen, Liang’s ability to find home no matter where she is draws people toward her musical stylings, which are filled with stories that represent the messiness of everyday life. She debuted in 2020 with her single “Santa Cruz”, and has gone on to release many more singles, as well as two EPs. Her most recent EP released in 2024, entitled “What’s Dead and Gone”, of which “Backseat” is the third track. The track’s singles “Eulogy”, “Use Me”, and “If Only” have seen much support from BBC Radio 1, BBC Introducing, Radio X, and many more. On September 12th, she will celebrate the album with her debut headline show at London’s O’Meara where she will perform the EP’s tracks and more with her full live band. You should absolutely drop Liang a follow if you enjoyed the track, and definitely give the rest of the album a listen! Written By Alexa Leung FOLLOW LIANG LAWRENCE: Instagram | Spotify  | Facebook  | YouTube

This song, “Small Town Beauty Queen” by Maddie Ettrich, is an indie-pop song about the typical small town dream of getting out and making it big, all the while ignoring the inevitable fall back to where you were before. With lyrics like “so tell me where’s the punchline, or is the joke on me” and “money’s fake but time ain’t free, five seconds lasts longer on MTV,” Maddie Ettrich paints a picture of that small town cycle, never getting out and always feeling like the butt of the joke. It’s a “cliche tragedy,” and a “fucked up fantasy,” and it’s a dream that a lot of people can relate to. You want to end up somewhere other than you are - you want more from life - but it’s never that easy and too far away to grasp. “Small Town Beauty Queen” is an upbeat alt-pop song that relies on heavy percussion and strong vocals to capture the listener across the three minutes. Starting out with a pounding beat, you’re drawn in immediately, only pulled in further when Ettrich starts singing. Her voice pairs perfectly with the intense melody, enticing you with a certain familiar yet unique pop/punk sound. The tension continues to build even as the song slows down between chorus and verse, keeping you guessing until it all breaks in the bridge, with a stunning guitar solo and a switch up in the pacing. Overall, this song is perfect for someone who loves to find music with that balance between a pulsing rhythm and emotional story. Maddie Ettrich is an indie-pop singer/songwriter who hails from Canada but is currently based out of Nashville, Tennessee. Similar to other artists like Blondshell, Bully, Soccer Mommy, Ryan Wright, and Olivia Rodrigo, Ettrich has charmed her listeners with her storytelling and her endlessly catchy melodies and beats. She released her first single, “Decaying Candles,” on July 8, 2022, and has since released more songs like “Hold Me Like A High,” “Everybody Loves Cake,” and “Miss Know Nothing.” “Small Town Beauty Queen” is her latest single, released on August 2, 2024. Use the links below to explore more of her music! Written By Morgan Fischer FOLLOW Maddie Ettrich: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Website  | YouTube

Hidden love and secrecy. The manipulative love bombing, the constant need for reassurance, the lack of sentiment, and the interminable doubt that comes with these kinds of relationships. It’s something a plethora of us have unfortunately had to experience, how diminutive and impotent we can feel when we let these people control and manipulate us. They come into our lives so different, almost loving and tenderly, all for it to change over time. Change into something so destructive and foul, molding us into a version they see is best, suppressing our connection and hiding it from the world to persist in their harmful and cheating behavior. These emotions and detrimental scenarios are what inspired Mandi Macias in her latest single titled “F* Ur F150”. Although these toxic people can make us feel insignificant and small, Mandi highlights the fortifying liberty one feels when we finally reclaim ourselves in these situations, as Mandi expresses in the song “now I’m in the driver seat”, demonstrating the freedom that comes with putting an end with toxic partners with destructive tendencies. Mandi’s voice is invigorating, adding immense emphasis to the emotive lyrics. The sound itself gives off an alternative pop that is sure to resonate and revitalize any listeners who may have experienced similar situations– giving them the confidence and capability to reclaim their power and self-worth as a strong individual. To finally bid a long-awaited farewell to those whose sole intention was to mess with our vulnerable emotions and damage our hearts. Mandi’s talents are undeniable, her voice enunciating those emotions we feel into such a dynamic sound with story-telling lyrics that pull at the strings of our fervent hearts. As I listened to this song, I took note of the spin Mandi added to such a heartbreaking scenario– somehow making it lively and empowering, a feminist’s anthem to unhealthy relationships, giving it an upbeat and also sassy sound. Yet, she also adds such pensive lyrics that leave us to reflect on our past recollections– all of it combined forms such amazing and talented work. Mandi Macies is a pop alternative artist from Los Angeles California, both a singer and songwriter who is renowned for her contemplative lyrics and incredible melodies that captivate the sore hearts of listeners. Mandi has performed in a plethora of well-known venues in LA, consistently selling out shows for her performative talents and her heartfelt songs that are adorned by her listeners and supporters. In Mandi’s latest EP titled “Teenage Eulogy”, she garnered millions of streams, touching the hearts of listeners all over the world with her music that analyzes the concept of growth and self-discovery. It’s a concept that is so desperately needed for teens and young adults who struggle with such predicaments– her lyrics and sounds resonating deep with her listeners which only keep them coming back for more, craving that feeling of empowerment and self-sufficiency Mandi’s lyrics grant. Letting listeners know that they are not the only ones who struggle with growth. Throughout her released songs, like “F* Ur F150” it’s clear that Mandi’s music is bold, shouting to others “I’m here”, making herself known with her artistic ideas and talents. As Mandi continues to make music and grow as an artist, I can’t help but look forward to any future releases from her! To support Mandi and her musical endeavors, stream her music and follow her socials. Written By Rosalyn Sanchez FOLLOW MANDI MACIAS: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

The Strike’s song “American Dream,” which is the title track of their newly released album, is about being present and appreciating those magical, euphoric moments of life. The band themselves reflect on some of those inimitable memories that they’ve made playing gigs, where certain moments felt like they were out of a movie. Lead singer Chris Crabb says, “I wanted to write a song that would capture a little bit of magic. ‘American Dream’ is my attempt to do so,” It’s a song that I could easily hear playing at the end of an 80s romcom. The lyrics, “Give me your word that you’ll remember this night // Looking up at the sky // With all our friends standing by // Frozen in the spotlight,” really encapsulate those feelings of bliss and gratitude that one feels in those special life highlights. “American Dream” is a trip down 80s lane. The song opens up with synth keyboards, providing listeners with a nostalgic sound and vibe from the very beginning. Crabb’s voice, along with the fast-paced drum beat that also carries throughout, sonically draw some comparisons to some other fellow iconic bands like Journey, The 1975, and hints of Blink-182. What I really love about the song is that it maintained the same tempo throughout for the most part. It never really dipped in intensity, providing listeners with a fun, upbeat track to let loose to. Overall, “American Dream” is a song you really can’t go wrong with. It's a versatile song that you can both rock out to and also reminisce about the good ‘ole days. The Strike is a three-member alternative rock band that has certainly not struck out on making a name for themselves in the music industry. The Los Angeles-based trio composed of members Chris Crabb (frontman), Jay Tibbits (drums), and David Maemone (keys/ guitar), released their debut single “Eye for an Eye” in 2016. However, it was their 2017 debut album Faint of the Heart that really began to turn heads in the band's direction. For starters, Grammy award winning artist and producer Quincy Jones, tapped The Strike to perform a three month residency in Dubai. The band’s song “Human Right” also received a sync placement in the 2018 hit Netflix film, To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before . Shortly after, The Strike went on tour, traveling to China, Australia, and across the U.S. with big name artists such as Kelly Clarkson, Journey, Carly Rae Jepsen, and more. Their use of classic 1980’s synth keyboard sounds, electrifying guitar riffs, and impassioned lyrics have helped them create their own lane, while also nodding to the nostalgic sounds of a truly epic musical decade. The Strike’s new album, American Dream , is now available on all music streaming platforms. Written By Giselle Morales FOLLOW THE STRIKE Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Kylie Butler, also known by her stage name Me.Kai, releases her new single "Dawns on You," revealing a stripped-down introspective sound and a powerful delivery of heart and soul. Pensive and moving, Kylie glides through the song with ease and grit, despite the tension-filled emotion behind her lyrics. The song feels like a release of suppressed frustrations and bottled words that are now unstoppably forthcoming when put into song form. Kylie's lyrics explore a relationship where unspoken words and lack of communication have consumed both partners, potentially thwarting a future together. Kylie exasperates in her chorus, “I'm silently screaming at you / is it so hard to talk something through.” Kylie feels as if the pair is suspended in time, with no move forward, as long as silence hangs between them and the problems are not resolved. Kylie hopes that the relationship can return to its former state. The song acts as a yearning for urgency, as the pair have shared a vulnerability and a whole of oneself that cannot be undone. Taking a step away from her other fast-paced electric pop and dance numbers, Kylie turns down the notch and moves towards an introspective, down-to-earth sound, while still holding traces of pop beats' power. The song amplifies simple melodious guitar-plucking patterns that are overlaid and accompanied by the familiar drums and bass reverberations found in electric pop. The two worlds of music gracefully collide, moving synchronously with Kylie's soothing voice. Her commanding voice belts out emotional lyrics that denote tenacity and earnestness for her feelings to be heard and reached. The song is reminiscent and a tone of regret follows each pluck of strings and emotive hitch of her voice. The melody, anchored by the acoustic guitar, humbles the song and lyrics as Kylie seems to be the first to surrender in this stagnancy of silence. “Dawns on You,” captures the essence of Kylie as a musical force, churning out thoughtful lyrics and moving melodies that make for a perfectly crafted sound of soul. Performing in the electro-pop and dance-pop musical genre, Me.Kai is known for her catchy beats and soulful sound. Along with immense vocal strength, Kylie is a moving lyricist and guitarist who started on the streets of Santa Barbra, performing covers of artists like the renowned Ella Fitzgerald and modern female forces like Dua Lipa. Joining together with musical groups, she collaborated with bands such as Area 51 and Everything’s Fine. She has also worked alongside a team of talented rising producers such as Gold Man and Burko. Her music has been featured on multiple platforms, from Netflix's TV show All American to various popular Spotify playlists. Drawing inspiration from artists like Janice Joplin and Stevie Nicks, as well as her musical sound, Me.Kai opts for a collision of genres that meld complementarily together to leave her unique stamp on the musical world. Skillful and brilliant, Me.Kai is set to release an EP in the coming months which is sure to keep its characteristic energetic and heartfelt vibe. Written By Mia Chavez FOLLOW ME.KAI: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube

"Crash Test" is euphemistic for being used and led on. The new pop song from Australian musician Gia Darcy compares the pain of having to act as a step towards someone else's recovery and happiness, when you never asked to be, as an intense trial that comes from the selfishness of someone you loved that you thought loved you back. It is an all-too common coping tactic that people use, often to get over an ex, or a way to see if they should go back to their ex; in the process, the people they use get hurt, and in this case, it is Darcy. She compares this a "crash test" because the person that led her on has no remorse for what they did and will most likely do it to other people. While waves of synths crash on a shore of piano notes, Gia Darcy amazingly performs the lyrics, the topic of which contrasts her light and airy, but also very strong voice. Her vocals are layered to create harmonies that fill the entire soundscape of the song to make it appear even more transcendent than it already did with the production. The instrumental, singing, and message of "Crash Test" are all so powerful they lift you in the air, and you feel as though you are flying through the pink and orange clouds of an August sunset. This dreamy pop synth-interrupted ballad being sung by a stellar vocalist classifies "Crash Test" as another anthem for the summer. Gia Darcy is Australia's newest up-and-coming star, preparing to takeover pop music. With nearly 30,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, Darcy has made music that has already established her as a live performer, whether its at concert halls or on television. If you want to hear another song of Darcy's like "Crash Test", listen to her song "Make Me Wanna". If you still love pop and want to hear a different vibe in addition to "Crash Test", listen to "Save Your Breath" and "Next Life". These are all incredible songs that show just how talented Darcy is, as well as her musical diversity. Written By Ashley Adams FOLLOW GIA DARCY: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Hit the city streets and scream your heart out with the synth-loving new track “Like the boys” from artist Cate Tomlinson. “Like the boys” is the complete opposite of how it appears. It’s a free-spirited, young-at-heart love song dedicated to expressing one’s true self. In addition, boys have hardly anything to do with the song’s actual subject. “Like the boys” is a declaration of powerful and vibrant feelings that are celebrated. These feelings are accepted and worthy of celebration – no matter who they’re for. While the lyrics give “Like the boys” a powerful and purposeful meaning, the sound behind the track amplifies the song’s capabilities. As Tomlinson’s vocal layering becomes more complex, the emotions both in the lyrics and sound of “Like the boys” are shown in detail. Tomlinson did this by supporting these emotional, crucial moments of the song by layering several key vocal elements as well as having the backing music swell to new heights. These little, yet meaningful elements tie into my personal thoughts regarding artists such as Hayley Kiyoko, Fletcher, etc. You can easily tell that these lyrics are feelings that ring true & dear to the artist, which is special to find in music. Tomlinson’s ability to match the tone of a song to both relatable and catchy is what makes her stand out, and it is what initially drew my attention to “Like the boys”. On top of this, Tomlinson is able to connect the energy of youthfulness and exploration throughout the song. There is a sense of maturity shown by reflection through narration, yet a passion to do things that are intriguing, intimidating, and true. Cate Tomlinson is a singer, songwriter, and performing artist based in Los Angeles, California. The 23-year-old was born and raised in San Francisco, California. Throughout her childhood, she learned to write songs and play the piano. By her college years, Tomlinson decided on a change of scenery and spent that time in Boston, Massachusetts. After her time in Boston, Tomlinson released her debut EP in August of 2023. Her EP “Blueberry Season” was the beginning of the path to honing her sound. Since that release, she has been making more music and exploring social networks & relationships in Los Angeles. Cate’s sound can be described as picturesque for the years from your late teen stage to your twenties, and I cannot wait to see how her material continues to evolve. Written By Madison Spies FOLLOW CATE TOMLINSON: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok | YouTube

Dear Joe, by Jax via jaxwritessongs.com After several years of waiting in anticipation, Jax has finally released her debut full-length album, Dear Joe . And the incredible album was well worth the wait. The project consists of twenty tracks that showcase the artist’s remarkable songwriting and unique vocals. Her raspy yet soothing voice guides the audience through relatable stories of life and relationships. She stays true to herself, holding nothing back as she shares her personal experiences. With her authentic candor, Jax is one of the most refreshing artists in the modern era, being an inspiration to women and girls of all ages. Track List jelly beans (the purge) hawk tuah (interlude) HOW DARE YOU the clap (interlude) i choose violence Barbara, your husband is gay (interlude) zombieland (feat. HARDY) neurospicy (interlude) the new girl is a snake Epstein didn’t kill himself (interlude) superbad holiday Adam Sandler (interlude) like my father too young to be old pour one out for me (interlude) stupid cupid the babysitter song (interlude) a song for chelsea Victoria’s Secret Jax is a singer-songwriter from New Jersey. In 2015, she placed third on Season 14 of American Idol , making her the most successful contestant from her home state. After the show, she released her first single, “Forcefield” and joined the remaining Top 5 contestants on the American Idols LIVE! Tour 2015. Not only has Jax written for herself, but she has also penned songs for other artists while she advanced her experience within the music industry. Then in 2020, the global pandemic threw a wrench in her plans by leaving Jax without a physical stage to perform. As a result, she turned to TikTok where she became a viral sensation. Her immense talent caught the attention of Atlantic Records, who she signed with in January 2021. She continued to release tracks that garnered her a dedicated fanbase and well-deserved attention. In March 2022, she won the iHeartRadio Music Award for TikTok Songwriter of the Year. Then in June 2022, she released her hit single, “Victoria’s Secret”. The track started important conversations about body image and eating disorders, resulting in the song going viral on TikTok and other social media platforms. The song peaked at number 2 on the U.S. Billboard Adult Top 40 Chart and 25 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 Chart and is certified gold in the United States. In 2023, she went on tour with Big Time Rush, and in 2024, she went on tour with Simple Plan. Follow her on all social media to stay up-to-date with any new announcements and music! Interludes Jax is not only known for her radiant personality and remarkable singing but also her impeccable humor. Alongside her infectious songs, she has gone viral for her equally as amusing TikToks where she sings short but powerful quips about life, relationships, and living in Hollywood. Throughout the album, she includes eight interludes that encapsulate her cheeky online presence. From exposing the industry's predatory creeps to her humorous Weird-Al style remakes of popular jingles, Jax packs a lot of punch in the short tracks. Her well-rounded album shows both her serious side and her comedic nature, making it the perfect debut project. jelly beans (the purge) Jax kicks off the album with an infectious song that shares a vulnerable storyline. Although the title has a humorous tone, the message is anything but. The singer starts the track with a story on why jellybeans “freak” her out. She once bit into one, expecting it to taste like Coca-Cola, and it ended up tasting more like “shit.” From that day on, she could no longer trust the colorful candy. And if she cannot trust a tiny piece of candy, how in the world is she able to trust anyone in her life? Taking a page from the iconic slasher movie franchise, Jax warns everyone that she is about to partake in her own purge. She utilizes the graphic imagery from the films to symbolize her desire to “purge” everyone she knows. No one is safe and everyone is being cut— she is ridding them from her life. It is a clever metaphor for the lack of trust and comfort she feels from those in her life. “jelly beans (the purge)” sets the scene for an album filled with clever lyrics and unique storylines. HOW DARE YOU Jax wrote “HOW DARE YOU” to help her best friend get over the ending of a relationship. The emotional break-up song showcases Jax’s powerful vocals and her more serious lyricism. The track navigates the end of a romance when one party watches the other move on. While she is still holding onto the days that they called each other “the one,” the subject has a new girl on his arm. And to make matters worse, the new girl is the narrator’s “carbon copy.” While she is mourning the breakup and sleeping in her ex’s shirt, the new girlfriend is sleeping in the bed they bought and wearing the shirt she left. “HOW DARE YOU” is a cathartic release for anyone experiencing a similar situation while Jax’s soulful voice wraps her best friend into a warm hug. i choose violence “i choose violence” easily became my favorite song on the album. The fiery track contains one of the major themes: revenge against predatory men. Jax exposes the vile man who groomed her from the age of eighteen, telling her she was mature for her age. While he paid for all the hotels, she bought fake IDs to just merely exist in his age group. She is still healing from the trauma she endured. In the pre-chorus, she states that she “could forgive” him, before breaking into the powerful chorus. Instead, she tells him: “I choose violence, I choose war// For all the little girls that should be warned// I could choose silence, but what for?// You took my innocence, now I’ll take yours// So I choose violence, and I might die trying.” Rather than sitting back and staying silent, she is airing his dirty laundry and refusing to go down without a fight. She now knows that she was not his first victim, nor will she be his last. While she is breaking down these walls, there is a girl out there not even born yet who may be next on his list. However, that gives Jax enough time to “build an army of girls” that will tear down his reputation and avenge all the young girls he preyed on. In recent years, more and more artists have used their music to stand up against predators and expose their groomers and abusers. This is my favorite genre of music – and I am so glad Jax has used her voice to share this topic more than once on Dear Joe . zombieland (feat. HARDY) “zombieland” was one of the first titles on the track list that initially caught my attention. Since the 2009 film of the same name is in my Top 5 favorite movies, I was curious to see what the track would be about. Jax and HARDY share a unique kind of love story. While the world is going under, the apocalypse is commencing, and the undead are taking over, the two lovers are the sole survivors. Their love will triumph – even through the endless fires and infinite earthquakes. It is a quirky song that is the epitome of Jax’s cheeky humor and ingenious storytelling. With the clever take on the apocalypse (a.k.a. apoca-lips), Jax and Hardy have produced an unforgettable track. the new girl is a snake Jax often inserts iconic pop culture references in her songs and interludes. The intro of “the new girl is a snake” contains audio from an alarming video that went viral. The moment on an American Airlines flight where a woman claimed another person was “not real.” While the subject of Jax’s song was not a “bodysnatcher” scenario, this viral moment was the perfect introduction to her infectious track. The singer shares her experience of being the only person who knew someone was bad news. While everyone around her seemed to trust the “new girl,” Jax was able to see through the toxic behavior. The soundscape had a soulful, country-rock vibe from it, varying from the rest of the album. This helped the song stand out amongst the pop anthems, earning it a spot in my top three of the album. superbad “superbad” is another track that shares the name of an iconic 2000s comedy. However, unlike “zombieland,” this song shares a much more heart-wrenching storyline. Jax shares her internal battle after finding out her best friend’s boyfriend is bad news. After learning that he has been unfaithful, she wants to break the news to her friend. But she does not want to be the one to break her heart. She struggles with the notion that he may just lie his way out of it, as he has been. What if her best friend does not believe her, and chooses him instead? The emotional ballad showcases Jax’s pain through her powerful vocals, making the song another flawless addition to the singer’s remarkable discography. holiday Jax provides another cheeky love song with “holiday.” The track utilizes different holidays to describe the joy and freedom her relationship makes her feel. In the first verse, she sings, “My world was black and white, but now it’s pumpkin spice.” While this line may not be the most serious or poetic lyric, it perfectly encapsulates the carefree feeling of finding the one. Being with her partner makes her feel like she is celebrating a holiday every day. Whether it is Halloween, Christmas, or New Year's, she always has a reason to celebrate. The lighthearted track instantly spreads her happiness to the listener, making them want to sing and dance along while thinking of their “holiday.” like my father “like my father” was released in 2021 and gained traction on social media, garnering viral status. As of March 2023, the song was RIAA gold-certified. The beautiful track would be a perfect father-daughter dance song at a wedding. Throughout the stunning ballad, she divulges the type of love she wants. One that is like her parents. For her entire life, she has had her parents' relationship as an example of love and marriage – and she knew she could never settle for less. She not only wants but needs a man who loves her like her father loves her mother. In the bridge, she switches the topic to wanting to be with someone who sets the standard for their future daughter. Just like Jax, she does not want her child to settle for mediocrity. The singer’s love and respect for her parents shine through in this song and effortlessly bring tears to the listener's eyes. too young to be old The first time I heard this song, I was driving alone in my car. I almost had to pull over because the tears began to fall from my eyes. Immediately after singing a song about the strong bond between a father and daughter, Jax transitioned into a track about watching life catch up to your loved ones. “too young to be old” details her experience watching her dad go from the vibrant and sharp spirit he once was, to the old man he has become. Life has a way of coming at you quickly. She has no idea how her father is showing signs of aging because he is way “too young to be old.” Becoming an adult is hard, because as you age, you know your parents are aging too. And soon enough, they will be gone. Jax shares this experience eloquently, expressing the anxiety and utter dread I feel each day. After listening to this track, you will want to go home and hug your loved ones a little tighter. stupid cupid Jax has a “bone to pick” with Cupid. In “stupid cupid,” she is angry with the Valentine’s Day character for making her fall in love. She is losing her edge as she falls in love with her partner, unable to fight the romance. She never thought her jaded personality would melt away and she would be one to fall madly, deeply in love with someone. The production is reminiscent of an old-timey love song, complete with a stunning orchestra and a subtle effect that emulates a classic recording. The beautiful track shows the audience another side of Jax while still maintaining her comedic side when she tells Cupid she should have shot him first. a song for chelsea Anyone who has followed Jax for a while knows who Chelsea is. She is the young girl that the singer has babysat for years. Throughout the song, she pleads to Chelsea to stay young forever. Jax wants to protect her from the demons and predators that hunt and prey on the innocent. But she knows that is not possible, so instead she warns Chelsea of wolves dressed in sheep’s clothing. After sharing her wisdom, Jax reveals a vicious twist in the bridge. The final line alone deserves a Grammy for the fire behind her words. With Jax in her corner, Chelsea will be safely guarded by the vengeful babysitter-turned-warrior. Victoria’s Secret “Victoria’s Secret” is an electrifying track about the toxic beauty standards projected onto women. The song includes Jax’s trademark cheeky lyricism and powerful storytelling. The song was released in 2022 and immediately went viral on TikTok, Instagram, and other social media platforms, as women and girls of all ages shared their experiences with body image and insecurities. “Victoria’s Secret” was the first song by Jax I had ever heard, as it was also one of the first review articles I wrote with Pop Passion Blog. Take a moment to travel back in time to read that article here . Dear Joe, by Jax has something for everyone. Whether it is the serious ballads, such as “superbad” and “HOW DARE YOU" or the comedic anthems such as “zombieland” or “holiday,” Jax has created a perfectly rounded album. From her hilarious quips to gut-wrenching storylines, the singer crafted an album that shares the multifaceted way of life. Her unmistakable talent and authenticity make her one of my favorite artists to watch, knowing she will always deliver incredible music. Written By Karlee Skipper Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.