If you love Bridgerton, or are even just a regular fan, you will adore the new single "Heaven Can Wait" by pop artist and fashion inspiration Kayla Silverman. Both the show and the lyrics of this contemporary, violin-heavy banger are captivating and cinematic, in which Silverman compares her unrequited love to the holiest degree. While her love is already in a relationship with someone else, and is only interested in hooking up, she can't help but still be in love anyway, anticipating when they will become single so she can finally be with them. She knows that once this happens, the love will be one-sided and will only come from her, calling this "masochistic" of herself, and she will feel just the same as she did before, but to her dismay, she can't help her attraction. Strings and the plucking of an acoustic guitar are stitched together over a beat reminiscent of pop hits that emerged from the 2000s. Paired together are a violin and trumpet, which lead out "Heaven Can Wait", and the instruments perfectly match each other's tone as the final hook fades. Silverman has an amazing singing voice, using her wide vocal range in the song. As she becomes more upset with love in the lyrics, her singing intensifies, reaching its highest point in the bridge, and then goes back down in the outro. The fact that she is able to convey strong emotion while singing is just even more proof she is an incredible vocalist. This song greatly represents this, as well as her ingenious song-writing skills. Kayla Silverman is an up-and-coming musician based in Boston, Massachusetts, known for her creative and original musical sound. Jazz and alternative influences can be recognized throughout her discography. She has toured in the past and is now in the process of making an album, titled From Your Lips to Gods Ears . Silverman flawlessly brings her aesthetically pleasing artwork for the music she has been releasing since 2020, including her 2021 debut EP Golden Frequencies , to life with her music videos, creating a feeling of enchantment. Other songs from her include "Bitter Chocolate", "Starting Over", and "Of Me". Silverman is a visionary, lyrically and sonically. Written By Ashley Adams FOLLOW KAYLA SILVERMAN: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Growing up, and even now, I've always imagined having the most beautiful wedding, complete with my favorite colors, flowers, and the perfect music at just the right moments. I think it's a pretty common feeling to dream about a special day just for you and the person you love. It can be the happiest day of our lives. And that first dance might be the pinnacle of the entire night. So, of course, you've got to pick the perfect song for you on your special day. Don't worry, though, we've got you covered. Here are ten great song ideas for your first dance as newlyweds! 10. Never Stop (Wedding Version) - SafetySuit This is the classic song I think of when I think of a first dance. I mean, it has "wedding" in the title. How could it not be? But truly, this insanely heartfelt ballad is unforgettable, and you'd be surprised how many people haven't heard it. It's a unique choice, and if you want it to be a little more upbeat, the rock version is good too. It's a beautiful tribute to how true love never fades even as the years go by, and it's sure to leave your crowd with tears in their eyes. 9. Euphoria (DJ Swivel Forever Mix) - BTS If you've read my articles before, you know I have to include a K-pop option, but it's not just that, it's the PERFECT K-Pop option. Even if you don't speak Korean, you can feel the emotion radiating off of this one. Euphoria is a solo piece by BTS member, Jeon Jungkook. The song, however, was originally written in English and composed by Candace Sosa, Melanie Fontana, and DJ Swivel. However, It transcends language in my opinion, as the music speaks for itself. This one would be perfect for a first dance with a choreographed big move like a dip or a spin. Just listen to that orchestra build! 8. Perfect/Thinking Out Loud/Tenerife Sea - Ed Sheeran Okay, I think it's obvious that Ed Sheeran is the king of writing wedding songs at this point, but in case you didn't know, I'm listing three here because I can't even decide which one I like the most. "Perfect" and "Thinking Out Loud" are the ones we immediately think of, but I wanted to include the lesser-known "Tenerife Sea" as well. All of these songs are gorgeous tributes to loved ones with honest heartfelt emotion behind them. They've all got a mellow tempo, so any one of these songs would be great for learning simple choreography, even if you aren't dancers. Not to mention Ed just has a way with words. You can't listen to any of these without feeling something. You just can't. 7. Golden Hour - JVKE Let me just start by saying I love this song. I really love this song. JVKE created something so creative and unique here. With almost ethereal piano runs and orchestral moments combined with modern sounds like snaps, sub-bass, and flawless vocals. This song is nothing short of a fairytale anthem. If your wedding has a fantasy or garden theme, or even if it's just being held at twilight, I feel like this song would fit right in. "Golden Hour" really lends something irreplicable to the atmosphere. It fits some traditional wedding vibes, but steps outside the lines just a little. It's a perfect balance if you have a mixed crowd and it's sure to bring a little magic to the party. 6. Think I'm Gonna Love You - Michal Leah and Caleb Hearn Back in the category of straightforward and sweet love songs, "Think I'm Gonna Love You" hits the nail so hard on the head. This is a song you want to be staring into your partner's eyes during. The lyrics are simple, but oh so meaningful. There's nothing complicated to decipher here. It's just love. That's what makes this song so special. I really love it when so much emotion can be packed into just vocals and guitar. It really brings a sense of intimacy to the track. I think if you're shy about dancing in front of others, this is the song for you. You and your new spouse will surely forget there's anyone else in the room. 5. Infinitely Falling - Fly By Midnight If you're looking for something a little faster, Fly By Midnight has your answer. "Infinitely Falling" feels like such a celebration of love. Paired with the contemporary dance in the music video, it's easy to see how this could be adapted for a wedding. The song's composition already feels like a romance novel, but there's also a "Romantic Redraw" version of this song, similar to SafetySuit's Wedding Version of Never Stop. It slows the song just a little, applying more acoustic instruments and background vocals for just a touch more feeling. Personally, I feel like either version could create a beautiful and unforgettable memory. 4. Everything to Me - Porter Robinson This song is brand new. I mean really new. Porter Robinson gifted us his new album, "Smile! :D" at just the end of July, so this is an awesome surprise to add to this list. "Everything to Me" is a somber love song with such an open and raw feeling behind it. It tells the story of two lovers meeting, the way things feel like they're happening so fast, but you just don't care. The love is so strong and you just want more of it. It really embodies that feeling of being okay with being vulnerable with someone. I think this might be the softest and slowest of all the songs on this list, making it the perfect tune to hold someone close to. There's no need for fanfare here. Just closeness. "It's you and me and the air in between." 3. Lover of Mine - Louyah This one might be a little lesser-known, but it sure is beautiful. The independent artist, Louyah, released this gem in 2022 and I can't seem to get it out of my head since. Many of Louyah's works have this folksy vibe to them, and this is no exception. It's a down-to-earth little tune that feels so appreciative and safe. It's like a warm musical hug. And I think your wedding attendees might agree. If you're having a smaller wedding or even no reception at all, it's a heartfelt little song to celebrate and reflect with. Whether you're with a big crowd or dancing in your living room, I think this is a great versatile choice for a first dance. 2. Imagine - Ben Platt (Acoustic) If you're a fan of Broadway, you might recognize Ben Platt for his starring role in the musical, "Dear Evan Hansen". That's where I originally discovered his vocal talents. However, Ben has some really notable solo works as well. One such song is "Imagine", a truly gorgeous love song that feels beyond happy and free. Ben's vocal runs make this song feel so powerful and heartfelt. It's a sweet and sappy little reminder that we really can't imagine life without our partners. It makes you stop and think and appreciate the joy of having found the perfect person, and I really love that. I've chosen the acoustic version for this list, but there exists a more upbeat version as well. The original version is a bit poppier, and if that's what you're looking for, it works just as well! 1. Your Bones - Chelsea Cutler (Acoustic) For those times when you just want to scream it to the world that you love someone, this is the song for you. I have personally heard this one performed live and it is pure magic. There's no embellishment here. No fancy vocabulary or overtly poetic wording. This is just "bare bones" love. (haha.) It's a meaningful little song about the shock and awe of finding something real with someone. In the blink of an eye, you've gone from single to too-good-to-be-true and you can't figure out why or how, but you are so happy it happened. This one fills me with nostalgia, as it really frames the passing of time. I think this is a wonderful first dance song for those who just want to remember how good it feels to love one another so freely. Thank you so much for reading through our list of songs to have your first dance to. I really hope you found some inspiration here or at least a new song to lend a listen to. How did you feel about the list? Would you dance to these at your wedding? Maybe you already have. Feel free to let us know on our socials below! Written By Shelbi Baker Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

Right before August began, singer-songwriter ALLYSE. gave us the perfect summer jam to listen to in the upcoming weeks. ALLYSE.'s newest single, "Cherry on Top," is a sweet, confectionary pop banger about love and being that extra something in your partner's life. On the track, ALLYSE. proves herself to be an up-and-coming pop star to watch out for. She brings the sass and the fun. Her attitude, in both her vocal delivery and lyrics, is undeniable. Fans of artists like Sabrina Carpenter or Katy Perry will find lots to love in ALLYSE. With its fusion of disc, hip-hop, and pop influences, "Cherry on Top" is a delightful earworm bound to be a certified hit. ALLYSE describes her discography as "sassy and sweet with a nasty beat." Few songs better encapsulate this than "Cherry on Top." "Cherry on Top" is one of the most fun pop songs in recent memory. The lyrics are deliciously cheeky. ALLYSE never misses an opportunity for a food pun: "You can have your cake and eat it too," and "I don't mind waiting if it's a table for two." I mean, come on, amazing. The production, as well, with its upbeat guitar riff and irresistible hip-hop-inspired drum line adds such spunk to an already adorable love song. Whether you're chilling near the pool, driving down the coast, or just want a good vibe, "Cherry on Top," is well, the cherry on top for any occasion. ALLYSE. is a singer, songwriter, and producer based in Austin, Texas. A classically trained multi-instrumentalist and singer, ALLYSE. combines her mastery with her love of pop to create outstanding, fun music. Though she only began officially releasing music a year ago, ALLYSE. has already made a massive splash on the music scene. She has collaborated with artists such as Bad Bonsai, Fierce Kelly, waverly, and Monica Moser, just to name a few, and has seen great success in her solo career. Her debut single, "YKIC," came out in January of 2023 and has since reached over 17,000 streams on Spotify. Since then, her other five singles have accumulated over 35,000 downloads, and ALLYSE currently amasses over 5800 monthly listeners on the streaming platform as well. ALLYSE's career has only just begun, and you can listen to "Cherry on Top," as well as the rest of her discography, on streaming platforms now. Written By Lauren Nolan FOLLOW ALLYSE: Instagram   | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

Brand new single alert! L.A based singer-songwriter Gabriella Zauna has just released an amazing dark pop track entitled, "WHAT DO WE DO". The song dives deep into a relationship which is teetering on the edge. It invites its listeners to reflect on their own experiences with choosing to fight for love or deciding its time to finally walk away. The lyrics echo these horrible feelings by placing emphasis and repetition on lines such as "We should've sealed the deal/ But here we go again" and "What do we do now/ Baby I don't know." The emotional tension within the lyrics is palpable. Gabriella has masterfully weaved her own personal situation-ship into scenarios we can all identify with, and her raw honesty and artistry is commendable. Now, let's dive into how the track sounds. The style and structure of “WHAT DO WE DO” is reminiscent of electronic music legends Daft Punk , known for their innovative approach to disco music and use of synthesizers and drum machines. In a similar vein, this track feels timeless yet cutting edge. The instrumental background of the main verses is a simple beat, strumming guitar, and electronic synth noises. The song’s production is immaculate, and in combination with Zauna's soft and airy vocals, this track is a stand out single. Zauna also showcases her vibrant personality through the isolated delivery of lines such as “Did it work?” Overall, the song feels like a trail-blazing moment for Gabriella, as “WHAT DO WE DO” is not only unique, but charismatic. Gabriella Zauna is quickly redefining the dark pop genre at just 19 years old. Impressively, the California-native is also involved in every step of the creative process when making her music. From writing to producing, she has expressed her musical talents are not only an escape, but an outlet during her battle with depression. She lists several of her musical inspirations, Lana Del Rey and RAYE being at the top of the list. Currently, she boasts nearly 60k followers on Tiktok and over 14k monthly Spotify listeners. If you were as impressed by Gabriella Zauna’s newest single “WHAT DO WE DO” as I was, be sure to follow her on all of the social media we have listed below! Written By Casey Hascup FOLLOW GABRIELLA: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube

Devika’s latest single “dozen roses”, released July 26th, is sultry and dark, detailing a steamy affair between the narrator and a married man. The woman eventually stalks and murders the wife, eliminating all competition between her and the one she loves. An unusual plotline, the lyricism is intricate and detailed, painting a picture of the dull feelings within the marriage contrasted with the fiery passion shared in the affair. The soundscape is full of electronic synths and echoes of Devika’s own vocals singing harmony throughout the background. Her vocals are intense and full of emotion and lust. Her lyrics tell the intricate story of love and betrayal throughout the affair. The instrumentation gradually grows with her confidence about her partner, creating the overall vibe of a dark pop song. The chorus is where we find a reference to the title, when she sings “I mailed a dozen roses / To my future husband / Humming to the music / Hearing his wife cry / She'll curse at us from hell / As I'm unbuckling his belt”. She disregards the wife’s feelings, earlier having stated that she dulls the ring on the man’s finger. Devika knows that the man is happier with her and desires her more, meaning that there is no need for his wife any longer. Devika took to promoting her music on social media, creating TikToks comparing which character her friends think the song could be about. She found great success in this, allowing many more people to find her music than in the past. She has reached almost 400 monthly Spotify streamers, and has two other singles released on streaming services. She has two upcoming shows, playing Brooklyn Music Kitchen on 9/3, and FirstLive on 8/17, with both venues being located in New York City. Make sure to follow the social medias below to stay tuned for more dark pop from Devika. Written By Tessa Maddaloni FOLLOW DEVIKA: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube

Alice Geary's latest track, This Time , is giving big Maisie Peters vibes thanks to its narrative-driven lyrics and a highly relatable aesthetic of strife-laden romanticism. There is a melancholy beauty attached to this song; highlighted by vulnerable lines like "hold you a little longer, how can you breathe when I'm holding you so tightly" – painting the picture of someone utterly in love with their partner and unafraid to show it. Alice explains that her motivation for This Time stems from her "first queer relationship, and the heartfelt hope that [she], in all honesty, [wouldn't] mess it up" as she truly wanted to "get it right this time". Simply put, this is the type of single any hopeless romantic out there can put on and instantly empathize with from start to finish. This Time blends synth pop with elements of rock and pop punk to create an intoxicating single for listeners to enjoy during the sweltering tail end of summer. The melodic continuity of the track's synth pads creates a dreamy atmosphere that is artistically paralleled by the earlier electric guitar tones that brought a bit of a tasteful edge. The bridge introduces an acoustic guitar riff which serves as a stark contrast to the distorted electric guitar tones previously heard in this ditty. There are upbeat indie pop drums rhythmically keeping the energy going as the tune progresses, making this single a hard one to take off repeat. A graduate of BIMM Music Institute, singer-songwriter Alice Geary is a "former EDM topliner turned pop girl" who is currently taking off with her infectiously fun style of music. Unfamiliar with her sound? She is the same girl who kicked off the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup by singing the opening song on the BBC – so yeah, that Alice Geary. A proud ally and member of the LGBTQ+ community, Alice hopes to use her brand of music to connect with fellow allies and anyone currently navigating their own personal identities. Her goal is to be a source of support for her audience by giving the feel of a "best friend" who is lending guidance via her lyricism. Be sure to keep an eye out for the release of the remainder of her EP Have I Said Too Much? , which is set to drop sometime in the near future. Written By Dan Caddigan FOLLOW ALICE GEARY: Instagram   | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

Write your name in a book of love with Dylan Dunlap’s song “The Long Way Home”. A mix of pop, folk, and a touch of indie paradise, “The Long Way Home” takes you a pleasantly safe way home. Wrapping you in an upbeat, folk-like mesh of instruments and a passionate, warm voice, this tune feels like a warm hug from a loved one that you’ve been anxiously awaiting. Dunlap’s skills of being a multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter, and creator of worlds shine in this track alongside its sweet, pure intentions. “The Long Way Home” is a gentle reminder that innocent and lasting love can & does exist, and that you can have fun with it. It leans into the side of romance and storytelling that can be a struggle to fully immerse yourself into, as the popularity and rise of heartbreak tales and yearning continue to cruise through the music scene. With Dunlap’s dedication to quality of craft and masterful lyrics, there is no beat left untouched nor no feelings left to discover – his heart is open and laid out on the line, as are the audience’s when they envelop themselves into “The Long Way Home”. Dylan Dunlap’s sound is unique, something you cannot quite put your finger on or try to contain to one box – yet it’s familiar and nostalgic. Dunlap’s ability to shift from genre to genre and/or combine several into one project, whether it be an album or a single song, reminds me of artists I grew up with. Striking, introductory piano leaning into his gentle voice reminds me of artists like John Mayer, Coldplay, and Jason Mraz. Nearing the chorus, the style of the song continues to weave into other areas, sounding slightly more indie and country. This draws comparisons to artists like Hozier and Mumford & Sons, yet Dunlap has qualities that these artists do not have. His style can simultaneously be classified as beachy, indie, country – the list goes on. “The Long Way Home” may just be a puzzle piece to the positive enigma that Dunlap is, but it’s a steppingstone heading in the right direction. Dylan Dunlap is an LA-based pop artist who creates music for people who love stories. Dunlap is a renaissance man – a multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter, producer, and visionary for East Magnolia Records. Dunlap launched East Magnolia Records, his own record company, in 2023. At the time, he had only released three EP’s. Now, he has received praise from people at Apple Music, as well as Spotify editorials, and continues to work hard for his music and company. His recently released album “ANGELENO” features 10 songs that tell the story of a coast-to-coast experience. This album starts in Burbank, California, and ends in Brooklyn, New York. With “ANGELENO”, Dunlap dives into his storytelling abilities and tells a coming-of-age story that is genuine to the chapters he’s lived through thus far. Written By Madison Spies FOLLOW DYLAN DUNLAP: Instagram | Spotify  | Website  | YouTube

“i'm not her" is a new song from Heather Kathryn on her EP ‘My Tragic Life.’ She mentioned how this song is the heart of the EP and holds a lot of significance to her. This song tells the story of what you have and what you can lose. Heather's vocals feel so raw on this track, conveying the hurt she feels deep inside. The acoustic guitar accompanies her voice in such a beautiful way. I think the simplicity of the track allows the listener to focus on the message of confusing and lost love. “i’m not her" is for the broken hearts that heal slowly and want to warn those who come after. Heather Kathryn wrote from a narrative of someone who has been healing yet still holds pieces of this past love. The relationship held a lot of false truths and deception that linger in the back of her mind. Heather vulnerably speaks about how this person found someone new and she sometimes wishes she could tell her how much she went through with this person. Sometimes we catch feelings and it turns out to be a façade and that’s what she faced. “Wish she could know all the lies you told me to keep quiet,” depicts her internalized hope of karma. In other ways this song also could be a projection of the narrator looking back on her past self and wishing she saw what she later found out. We all wish to protect  ourselves from getting hurt so I love this interpretation as well. Heather Kathryn was born in Phoenix, Arizona. She found her love for music by using it as a creative and emotional outlet. At the age of seventeen, she moved to Los Angeles in hopes of a career in the industry. She brings a pop-punk type of feel for fans of artists such as Avril Lavigne and Paramore. As a songwriter, her themes tend to reflect the realities of dating and what it’s like to live throughout her early 20’s. Heather Kathryn is on the path of making her dreams a reality with the talent she brings. Her discovery is ever growing so follow her social medias down below to watch her journey Written By Emylee Herring FOLLOW HEATHER KATHRYN: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

We as humans crave a deep connection, one that goes deeper than the surface. In this day in age, it is so easy to form friendships and relationships with our devices rather than real human beings. Perhaps that’s just because it’s so easy to be convinced and persuaded by technology that we form a digital addiction due to how much we rely on our devices. It’s almost like a source of comfort that we cling to whenever we desire some sort of reassurance or when we want to connect with something. It’s so easy to get it from our devices, like for example the exploitation of AI usage— it’s almost as if the media was created solely  to hook its users and keep us attached to our phones to shut out the world around us. Eventually, we fall into our addictions, and we tend to become so disengaged and uninterested in the real world that surrounds us. With an addiction to our devices comes addiction to social media which can then only provoke immense pressure from society. Yet, it’s as if we can be convinced by our devices. Sasha Haydn thoroughly explores the question “How does the human relationship with technology interact with the human relationship with other human beings” in her song “Phlip Phone” which truly delves deep with witty and pensive lyrics like “But, I could be convinced to give into a click-by-click kind of acquittance” that can leave listeners in painstaking thought, truly considering the question that Sasha has so meticulously included into such a psychedelic sound. A song that has perfectly highlighted the astonishing reality of our digital obsessions. “Phlip Fone” has immense charm, the lyrics, not only are so intricate and invoke the cognitive mind, but they are also melodic and catchy as any other whimsical lyrics would be in a pop song. Analyzing the sound deeper, we can hear all the innovative ways Sasha has included digital sound as percussion which is such a striking way to make use of the sounds– it adds even more appeal to Sasha’s work, making the song just that much more charming. Sasha’s voice is a delightful instrument in itself, it carries emotion and delivers the message included in her lyrics. Her rhythmic voice adds the impact the song needs to mend together and create such a remarkable story that strikes its listeners. As I listened to the song, the lyrics were so loud , too loud to ignore. They managed to seize my attention and grapple with my thoughts, forcing me to not only follow along with the story depicted but bob my head to the sound that was undeniably catchy with its digital sounds that hummed in a melodic susurration. The message that Sasha strived to include managed to break the sound, and it stewed my thoughts heavily, in awe of such incredible work. Sasha Haydn, the talented artist behind such a captivating song like “Phlip Fone” is an American singer and songwriter for genres of music like pop, indie, and pop-soul. Just listening to this particular song, “Phlip Fone”, it’s evident that Sasha puts her contemplative thoughts on paper, and manages to create a narrative for them, turning these loud thoughts of hers into songs and addicting sounds that listeners can relish and enjoy. Sasha takes her songwriting abilities seriously, and she even shares the process with her supporters, showing us just how immersed and articulate she can be whenever creating her pieces. Like her song “Phlip Fone” Sasha has also released more tracks that invoke new emotions like “Shower thoughts” which is her latest single, “Mercury in Marmalade”, “Eleanora”, and two more titled “Designated” and “Little Blue”. Despite her musical journey seeming to start in mid-2023, her rapid growth in music is unmistakable and remarkable. As Sasha continues to sing and write out her fascinating thoughts on paper, I will continue to look forward to any of her future releases!  Written By Rosalyn Sanchez FOLLOW SASHA HAYDN: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube

Grace Kuraska’s latest single “monsters” is a contemplative track that tells the story of a toxic relationship. Acoustic with elegant vocals, this song is perfect for those of you who love the enemies-to-lovers trope while also being realistic about what the implications of these relationships are. “monsters” is lyric-driven, and so is best enjoyed with a close ear while gazing out a rainy window in the early hours of the morning. It is also alluringly soft, almost like the lover that the narrator describes; but you don't really see the thorns until you're close enough to get cut. Slow and introspective, you’ll be quickly swept into Kuraska’s soundscape as the gentle guitar and light percussion pull you deeper and deeper into this push-and-pull relationship, this complicated bond. Cradled in satiny, mellow strings and Kuraska’s silken voice, “monsters” has the air of comfort in its soundscape. The percussion maintains a steady rhythm as the other instrumentals remain tentative to make way for the songwriting to take center stage. I really love how consoling the soundscape is, and until you listen closer to the lyrics, you could be lulled into its solace. Yet, toxic relationships, by their very nature, are complex; the one that “monsters” describes is exactly that. Being a very lyric-driven track, it is no surprise that Kuraska’s writing is in the spotlight. Questions swirl around the narrator, asking “did you ever even love me?” and “did you ever even care, babe?”; and is yet bracketed by lines such as “your lips lie but your eyes don’t / I spy a spark when they’re ice cold”. I adored the back-and-forth the lyrics introduced while the instrumentals kept their sound similar throughout the track. On one hand, you have this quiet romance, and then you have the terrible betrayals of the lover. While the violence is not entirely mitigated by the perceived love that the narrator receives, "monsters" shows the dual nature of being in a complicated relationship with someone who fails to healthily show their emotions. You get hurt, you bleed, and you chase after it. The cycle is definitely not great for your well-being, but “monsters” illustrates the possibilities of this relationship with whatever blood may be shed and love given. It’s clearest in the bridge when Kuraska sings, “It’s so sadistic, it’s masochistic / I can’t quit, think I’m addicted”. Any way you look at it, “monsters” is a lovingly multifaceted track with both a brilliant soundscape and magnificent songwriting that will make you think. Hailing from Connecticut, singer-songwriter Grace Kuraska has spent myriad years secretly writing songs, and has finally revealed her music to the world. Although she first started writing lyrics as a child, it eventually blossomed into something more; picking up the guitar and keyboard opened up musical avenues for her to create art, and she used those skills to sharpen her songwriting. Inspired by artists such as Taylor Swift, Lorde, and Carole King, the influences in her music are clear in her honest, diary-like approach to her lyrics. Her debut single “Can You?” released in 2022 and was followed by four other singles in the years afterward. “monsters” is her first release of 2024. If you enjoyed “monsters”, consider following Kuraska and listening to the rest of her discography while we patiently await her next projects! Written By Alexa Leung FOLLOW GRACE KURASKA: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Apple Music | SoundCloud

“Almost There” by Jenna Vivacora serves as an anthem of anticipation and the culmination of love realized after a long-distance relationship. Conceived as Jenna transitioned from the bustling streets of New York City to the music-soaked avenues of Nashville to be with her partner, the song encapsulates the bittersweet yearning and excitement that accompany such life-altering moves. This track stands as a defining piece in Jenna’s upcoming album Sojourner, recorded at the Bunker Studio in NYC and produced by the talented Sirintip Phasuk, an artist and climate change activist. Jenna’s narrative of being “almost there” is symbolically represented in the song’s opening, where the sounds are morse code for "Almost There," run through an arpeggiator, echoing the meticulous thought Jenna puts into her art. Lyrically, "Almost There" is a beautiful blend of poetic and tactile imagery, reflecting Jenna’s theatrical flair and life’s emotional upheavals. The song’s progression mirrors this duality, transitioning from intimate verses that express the longing felt during long-distance separations, to an exuberant chorus that celebrates the imminence of reunion. Musically, the track underwent significant evolution, starting in a Joni Mitchell-esque draft and landing in the high-energy realm reminiscent of Dua Lipa. The production, layered and dynamic, incorporates a mix of acoustic charm and synth-pop sophistication that keeps the listener engaged from start to finish. The morphing sounds and Jenna’s emotive vocal performance create an overarching theme of movement and change, apt for a song about nearing the end of a long journey. Jenna Vivacora is not merely a singer-songwriter but a multifaceted artist whose life experience profoundly shapes her music. Based in Nashville, her background is a rich tapestry of nomadic travels, military discipline from her education at the US Naval Academy, and an embracing of different cultures, having lived in Central Asia, Turkey, and Germany. Jenna is also a playwright, a fact evident in the narrative depth and emotional sensitivity of her songwriting. Her work explores themes of trauma, healing, and resilience, most notably in her original musical Wait for Her and her composition for the Irish musical, Deirdre. Jenna’s commitment to her craft and the advancement of women in the music industry is a testament to her desire to create art that is not only reflective of her journey but also inspiring to many. Her blend of personal history, multiethnic background, and advocacy work positions her as a unique and influential voice in the indie music scene. As an artist who champions diversity, equity, and breaking new ground, Jenna Vivacora is truly an indie music woman to watch, bringing her rich, multi-dimensional experience into her ever-evolving sound. Written By Megan Cao FOLLOW JENNA: Instagram   | Spotify  | TikTok  | Bandcamp  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

GIO DARA’s recent release of new hit single “Nevermind” hits extraordinarily close to home as he delivers a sentimental ballad of all that could have been in the unpredictable, ever-changing journey we call life. Drawing on the abstract concepts of love, death, longing, and the future, DARA emphasizes the importance of experiencing the many joys and trials life has to offer in all of its unfairness. In spite of Life’s inevitabilities, DARA’s “don’t lose your hope” encourages us to foster relationships with the people we love and take the risk while we’re still able to, as we are comforted by the notion that someday, “the pain will go away”. “Nevermind” carries such a weighted value, and yet, DARA’s melody still manages to leave us lighter than when we heard it the first time. With this emotive track, we get a beautiful glimpse into the creativity DARA continues to bring into the pop world, successfully stirring and spurring our emotions in a direction that compels us to make the most of everyday and spread the love we exude with one another. One of the biggest messages we can take away from DARA's single would simply be to say "nevermind" to the things we can't change, to the "tide" we can't fight off, for life is simply too short to not seek and seize every fleeting opportunity of true happiness. DARA’s “Nevermind” is a wholehearted masterpiece with a story that takes us on a journey through its gentle introduction, fiery climax, and comforting resolution. An isolated guitar opens the track and sets a sensitive, yet vibrant mood as we are first introduced to DARA’s meaningful lyrics. In addressing the audience directly, DARA is able to isolate every listener and personalize his message; every "you" leaves the listener with a sense of empowerment and subtle call-to-action. DARA's vocals build as the chords progress, making for a heart-swelling chorus surrounded by pleasant acoustics and strong drums. As DARA grows more and more passionate towards the climax of the song, the listener begins to share DARA’s intensity; he commands our attention with a rasp that cuts through the instrumental and leaves a profound impression. Our hearts grow with an indescribable anticipation as we begin to feel a shift in the song's progression backed by DARA’s powerful vocals. Ending the song with the repetition of a resolute "the pain will go away", we are left with the beautiful story DARA's impassioned delivery has granted us with and leave holding onto its sentimentality. London's GIO DARA is an upcoming singer-songwriter that has already started building his legacy in the folk-pop genre! DARA has drawn inspiration from artists such as Noah Kahan and The Paper Kites , gradually forming a unique brand of his own that showcases him as an impressive vocalist and writer. In addition to the melodic and heartfelt "Nevermind", some of DARA's other recent singles such as "Riverflow" and "Dream Alone" have steadily gained lots of popularity on Spotify with roughly 20k and 40k streams respectively! DARA has garnered fans from all over the globe, making his presence known not only on the streets of London, but also in the States as a talented musician and creator. As there is still more to come from DARA in the future, make sure to stay up-to-date with his journey and follow the socials below! Written By Pejah Carr FOLLOW GIO: Instagram | Spotify  | Facebook  | YouTube