We've all been put through draining situations at some point in our lives. Sometimes there are just things we can't stop thinking about. The anxiety festers, we can't focus on anything else, and even when the moment has passed, we're still wondering about what could have been. But how would it feel to be able to let it all go? If we could sweep all those bad memories and all that trauma aside, wouldn't happiness be easier? Alex McArtor's newest single, "In The Dark", tells the tale of one artist's journey to finding her own self-worth and inspires listeners to do the same. The lyrics tell us that break-ups are hard. We go back and forth about how we feel for a long time afterward, but this isn't a lament. This song is about taking your power back from the things that hurt you. Take back your light and leave the negativity in the dark. Upon first listen, I was immediately entranced by the sound of this song. It's reminiscent of artists like Lana del Ray, Lorde, and even a little Billie Eilish. It's extremely chill with a generous helping of vintage charm both in the production and music video for the song. McArtor's vocals are silken on top of a mixture of eras. We've got 80s drums, classic 50s/60s strings, and 2020s bass. It's a creative blend that sets this song apart from others that only emulate the classics or feel solely shiny and new. "In The Dark" brings an intimidating confidence to the table as well. The mysterious feeling of the music alongside the empowering lyrics instantly frames McArtor as an artist who knows what she's doing. This is a track you don't want to miss. Alex McArtor is a 22-year-old Los Angeles-based singer and songwriter with heaps of potential in the competitive world of music. She debuted on Spotify with her single, "Are You Alone" and has been producing a steady stream of meaningful music ever since. Her previous EPs have garnered gratuitous praise from big names in publications including Billboard, Spin, Blackbook, FLOOD, Under the Radar, Idolotar, Off the Record, Alternative Press, and KCRW. She was named one of Taco Bell's Feed the Beat Top New Artists. Alex McArtor's talent and mark on the music industry are undeniable. She's making waves and inspiring others and I think that's definitely worth the attention. You can hear "In The Dark" on your favorite streaming service now. Written By Shelbi Baker FOLLOW ALEX MCARTOR: Instagram   | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

The atmosphere of the song gives way to fun vibes immediately and the listener is given an invitation to dance and listen. While doing so, the listener is bound to pick up on the fact that this song is a love song. The name of the song most likely gives it away as well, as Tina said “What’s love, but a secondhand emotion?” Mitch leans into that narrative here, and the listener gets this simple yet sweet description of the song - “Summer bop about falling in unexpected love. Perfect for peak sunset mischief with the windows rolled down. Grab the aux first and start the night right.” This is a summer bop, indeed, Wilson knows the formula for success when it comes to bops as is apparent with this song. Mitch also seems to know a thing or two about the beginning of love and how to encapsulate that feeling of a budding romance, the butterflies, the unknowns, the anticipation. Click here to listen to "Secondhand Emotion"! "I'm addicted to the contact high." A rather interesting way to describe how someone makes you feel. The effects used with Mitch's voice add to the appeal of the song, it sounds as if it's coming out of a boom box, which plays into the verse where Mitch mentions hearing him on a jukebox. The overall feel of this song is enough to solidify its bop status. However, Mitch and his team’s ability to make the audience not only want to dance, but also sing along is not something to gloss over. Mitch is very descriptive in the verses- setting the scene of driving around and the tone that the lovers create for each other. The song mixes great engineering with buttery vocals and cool instruments to deliver “indie love pop” as Mitch describes his music. Love is rather addicting to a person, your significant other becomes all you’re concerned about, you’re consumed with thoughts of them, of their well-being. You want to be around them all the time, you hang on their every word. Wilson’s latest single is a glimpse into throwing caution to the wind and diving into that secondhand emotion you get from that one person you’re thinking about as you read this. Yeah, them. 😊 I’m certain we’ll all be getting into our secondhand emotions this summer and dancing happily while doing so. Wilson’s musical style is described as “electro pop, pop rock, and alt pop”. Wilson describes his music himself as “groovy pop bops”. I, as the listener, am inclined to agree after listening to “Secondhand Emotion” and getting the dancing bug. Mitchell Wilson is a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who has been described as having - “strong vocals harkening to Peter Gabriel, and a visual style a-la big suit David Bowie”. Wilson is an avid guitar player, as noted in most of his songs and live performances, however, he is also a jazz big band drummer who has worked with the likes of Mike Tyson and Taylor Momsen. Wilson was also a part of Broadway productions such as A Night with Janis Joplin and The Last Ship, also on the drums. If his social media and songs are any indication, Wilson is poised to be the next in-demand alt-hit-maker. Stream “Secondhand Emotion” at the link above and follow him on all of his socials below to stay a part of his terrific musical journey! Written By Keiunna Thompson FOLLOW MITCH WILSON: Instagram | Spotify   | TikTok  | Facebook   | YouTube

This song, “Love So Bad” by artists Visions of Division and Sydney Taylor, is a dance-pop single all about the danger and the desire of falling in love with someone you know is bad for you. It can happen so easily - the lure of the forbidden - it’s a tale you hear about all the time. Whether, as Sydney Taylor sings, you’re “a sucker for the bad boy diet” or whether it’s just such a “love so bad it’s good,” this song nails down perfectly what it feels like to be caught in that cycle. The game is “on repeat,” and even though “every goddamn bone” in your body tells you to walk away, you just can’t.  Click here to listen to "Love So Bad!" “Love So Bad” is a rhythmic, synthpop song perfect for fans of Lady Gaga or Tove Lo. Capturing perfectly the feel of the club scene, Visions of Division and Sydney Taylor rely on heavy beats and mesmerizing melodies to draw you in and keep you engaged throughout the whole three minute song. Right off the bat, the song opens with catchy percussion, having you bop your head and tap your foot immediately. As the song continues, Taylor’s seductive vocals mixed with the electronic instrumentals have you wanting to get up and dance. Overall, this dance-pop perfection is likely to be an instant favorite. Visions of Division is the stage name for Eric Monse, a dance-pop artist and producer who currently resides in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. He’s worked with various other music and performance projects as well - for example, he stared and toured with the avant-garde Post Theater in Berlin, Cologne, and Seoul. He’s gathered success and notoriety in the dance-pop world already, having composed and produced with other artists such as Natureboy and Boyfriendgirlfriend. In this song, he works with the new artist, Sydney Taylor, who’s begun making a name for herself as well. Use the links below to listen to the song and explore more of their music! Written By Morgan Fischer FOLLOW Visions of Division: Instagram | Spotify  | Facebook FOLLOW Sydney Taylor: Spotify

Arden Alexa's latest single, "National Boyfriend Day," is a vibrant and refreshing addition to the pop music scene. With its roots drawn from sarcastic lyricism and underpinned by a Spanish-influenced dance beat, the track offers a whimsical yet sharp commentary on the Instagram-famous holiday. Rooted in influences from icons like Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, and Madonna, the song is a celebration of independence and self-contentment. Known for her captivating charm and razor-sharp lyrics, Arden brings her distinctive style to this song, creating an anthem for singles who’d rather celebrate independence than succumb to the societal pressures of coupledom. The song's musicality is infectious, blending flamenco-inspired guitar riffs with catchy pop hooks that compel listeners to hit replay. Produced by Arthur Pingrey in New York City, "National Boyfriend Day" brilliantly showcases Arden's vocal versatility. Her delivery is both dynamic and effortless, capturing the attention of listeners who can easily see why she's garnered over 30k followers on TikTok. Underneath the playful and ironic lyrics, Arden subtly encourages her audience to not take life too seriously and to find joy in their independence, making the song both entertaining and thought-provoking. The nuanced production and Arden's engaging vocals make "National Boyfriend Day" an instant earworm, resonating with listeners who appreciate both modern pop sensibilities and indie rawness. Arden Alexa's journey from writing her first songs in San Francisco to making a mark in the LA music scene illustrates her relentless ambition and talent. "NBD" was born out of a personal challenge to write a song every day in the summer of 2023, a testament to her dedication and evolving artistic vision. This track, with its layered production and compelling narrative, serves as a bridge connecting Arden’s past experiences with her future aspirations. With the release of this single, Arden continues to solidify her place as a rising star in pop music, turning an "obnoxiously mushy holiday" into a celebration of fun and self-love. Written By Megan Cao FOLLOW ARDEN: Instagram   | Spotify  | Website  | Facebook *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

Are you obsessed with astrology like me? Are you always looking for personality quizzes and horoscopes to tell you more about your star sign? Do you love pop music? Are you just looking for something new to listen to? If any or all of these are you, you're in the right place, because I've created this list of the 2024 pop albums you might love depending on your star sign. So, settle in with a warm drink and a snack, and let's explore some astrology through music! Capricorn: Kacey Musgraves - "Deeper Well" I know, I know, this one is sort of a country album, but Kacey Musgraves borders the line between pop and country with this very sentimental and reflective album. Capricorns are known for their independence, loyalty, and discipline. "Deeper Well" is about new beginnings. Kacey describes it as an 'ode to removing resistance to growth'. It's about having the strength to move forward, keeping a level head, and growing for the better despite all odds. Capricorns are some of the most resilient people I know, and they do it effortlessly. If there was ever an album to describe them, it is this. If you're a Capricorn, you might resonate with Kacey's unwavering drive, diligence, and down-to-earth attitude in this album. It really is a graceful tribute to self-improvement, something you do incredibly well. Aquarius: Zara Larsson - "VENUS" If you're an Aquarius, I have the perfect album for you. "VENUS" by Zara Larsson is bright, progressive, and brings some of that drama you can't help but get caught up in. It plays to your confident side, feeding empowering energy to any situation. This is a powerful step up from Zara's previous discography. Where previous albums beautifully resonated with our inner struggles, this one creates the image of a confident queen who's seen it all and lived to tell the tale. You navigate the world with wisdom. You're the friend that's always warning others when you see a red flag. You appreciate a sense of community and take pride in being the one everyone comes to for advice. And if you have your own problems going on? Nobody can tell. Pisces: Ariana Grande - "Eternal Sunshine" You, dear Pisces, are a dreamer. You're in your own head a lot, and that's okay. You reflect on the past often, maybe thinking about what could have been if things had gone differently. That's why the perfect 2024 pop album for you is Ariana Grande's "Eternal Sunshine". This is a deeply reflective album, focusing on moving on after a bad break-up. The album's namesake comes from the 2004 film, "Eternal Sunshine of a Spotless Mind", a trippy but profound story about lovers who literally have their memories of each other erased. Ari manages to find the beauty in bad situations, and I'm willing to bet you do too. With your deep sense of self and intuition, this is an album you'll want to hear front to back. Aries: Beyonce - "Cowboy Carter" Okay, I know what you're thinking. Another country album? Well, not really. Beyonce's "Cowboy Carter" is actually a work of multi-genre genius. Our Queen Bey explores her Southern roots around what she already knows, iconic pop and hip-hop. She's versatile, just like you, Aries. Fiery, fearless, and dynamic, you are not afraid to color outside the lines. You're the one to make bold decisions because only you know what's best for you. You're often the trendsetter of the group and maybe you're running on impulse, but it doesn't stop you. You make it work and you make it look good. Maybe people judge you for doing something wild, but they're quick to follow suit because you make an impact whether they like it or not. Taurus: Billie Eilish - "Hit Me Hard and Soft" Hello there, Taurus. Thanks for stopping by. Your hand-picked 2024 pop album is Billie Eilish's "Hit Me Hard and Soft". I personally picked this one up on vinyl and it is such a journey. Billie has a history of looking so cool and chill on the outside while her music reveals every emotion in the world. You're the chill friend. You always seem resolute in the face of adversity, but you're secretly a little soft. This album has a few bangers. "Lunch" is especially catchy and popular, but the deeper you dive into the album, the more you might find yourself moved. The album hits you, well, hard and then soft, just like the title. While you're busy being the responsible friend, the one who stays grounded while everyone else is melting down, remember it's okay to open up sometimes. This album is a great reminder of that. Gemini: Chappell Roan - "The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess" If you're a Gemini, congratulations, because you get to compare to your favorite artist's favorite artist. Chappell Roan's album, "The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess" is everything you stand for. It's bright, colorful, loud, and unapologetic. Chappell wears her heart on her sleeve just like you do, practically screaming her true self into the mic. This album is so much fun but it isn't without its genuine sensitive moments. It's a whirlwind of good and bad. It's the whole story, not just the happy ending, and that's exactly what you bring to the table. You are charming, charismatic, and so proud of who you are. Maybe you overshare sometimes, maybe you cry too much, but that's okay. Your friends love everything about you anyway. Cancer: Taylor Swift - "The Tortured Poets Department" Taylor Swift's well-loved album, "The Tortured Poets Department" is the perfect album for a Cancer. If you're a Cancer, you're a compassionate, empathetic soul. You're protective, but you connect easily to those you trust. I feel as though TTPD is a healing era for Taylor, although the internet can't seem to make up its mind about what she's healing from. As a Cancer, you feel things deeply. You have a sentimental and caring nature and you put time and energy into even the smallest of details. TTPD is an album that pulls those deep emotions out of us. Whether you're belting "Florida!" in the car or sobbing your eyes out to "I Hate it Here", I have no doubts that you relish every little moment in life, perfect for taking in Taylor's stories in TTPD. Leo: aespa - "Armageddon" This is the first K-pop entry on the list and it's perfect for the ever noble and determined Leo. A relatively new girl group, aespa, has been taking the world by storm with their powerful pop bangers. And "Armageddon" was such a joy to receive this year as listeners. So how does this resonate with Leos? Well, if you're a Leo, you're often bold and dramatic. You put on a show but never in a negative light. You exude confidence just like this album. You are the optimist of the group and the life of the party. You bring positivity to situations that might otherwise be uncertain. "Armageddon" is a creative album with a classic style just like yours. Maybe you aren't necessarily an innovator, but you aren't afraid to perfect what you already know. Virgo: Justin Timberlake - "Everything I thought It Was" As a Virgo, you are the most organized of the signs. You're professional, fresh, clean, and focused. You know what you're doing and you don't like deviating from those good habits. Justin Timberlake's new album, "Everything I Thought It Was" is the 2024 pop album for you. Our veteran artist, JT keeps up what we know he's good at, bumping dance-pop tunes with a 2000s vibe. If it ain't broke, don't fix it, right? Just like how you stick to your roots and routines, JT sticks to his strengths, and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that. Despite following a formula, you're still innovative, creative, and careful in the things you make. You take pride in quality over quantity, always researching and building things to last. Libra: Charli XCX - "brat" Charli XCX is the queen of artistic theming in her albums, always aiming to make a statement, probably not too far off from you, Libra. Your curious nature makes you want to try all kinds of new things. "brat" is a hyper-feminine anthem that goes out of its way to describe just how weird and wonderful it is to be a woman in 2024. It's defiant, replacing Charli's typical glamor-shot album covers with one word in a simple font on a jarring green background. The reason for this is to prove that women are more than something pretty to objectify. As a Libra, you're strong like that. You're a go-getter with a million aspirations. Maybe you're a little indecisive, but it only makes you more intriguing. You make a statement and you light up the room. Scorpio: Allie X - "Girl With No Face" Hello there, Scorpio. I've got a fun one for you. Allie X's "Girl With No Face" is a spectacular new album that subverts expectations of the typical pop album. As a Scorpio, you don't readily subscribe to whatever's trendy, but you like what you like, and this album is a great example of something a little more fringe in the mainstream. Allie X explores her identity through a series of genres and cryptic lyrics. It's a fascinating listen. I'm willing to bet there's more to you than meets the eye. You seem stoic on the outside, but you actually have really strong emotional beliefs. You might feel a little like you're on the outside looking in, but you're anything but a black sheep to the people who care about you. This album is weird and wonderful with some vintage charm to it and that's what makes it such a good listen. Sagittarius: Vampire Weekend - "Only God Was Above Us" Sagittarius gets one of the most interesting entries on this list, Vampire Weekend's, "Only God Was Above Us". And if you're looking at the tracklist, I know you're laughing about there being a song titled, "Capricorn" while I'm giving this to Sagittarius, but stay with me here. Vampire Weekend is such a fun band. And if you're a Sagittarius, you're a fun person. You're a free spirit, you're passionate, you might even be a little philosophical. "Only God Was Above Us" is the perfect album for decrypting some of those deeper meanings. It's a little bit profound, a little all over the place, but at the heart of it, it's just an album about choosing optimism. As someone who chooses fun and freedom but maybe has a soft spot for a good puzzle, this is the album for you. Thanks so much for reading through our list of 2024 pop albums based on your star sign. What did you think? Did your hand-picked album resonate with who you are or were we way off? In the end, of course, you choose your own destiny. Maybe you resonate with all or none of these albums. It's all in good fun. Thank you so much for reading all the way through and as always, feel free to let us know what you think at any of our socials below! Written By Shelbi Baker Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

When it comes to anthems uncovering the complexity of breakups and how closure is never quick and easy, Dulcie excels in this avenue with her latest single “Stay Away (Hope You’re Ok)”. Her unique and captivating voice perfectly blends with the classic alt-rock style of the song. This track explores what it’s like to continue to care for a past partner, even if you understand why you can no longer be in that relationship. In such a fun and energetic way, Dulcie paints the emotional nuance of breakups, and “Stay Away (Hope You’re Ok)” captures the hearts of listeners because of its spunky and transparent character. The driving force on “Stay Away (Hope You’re Ok)” is Dulcie’s unique voice. You can tell from the initial listen how much fun was had while creating this song, even if the topic is a bit difficult. From the lyrics, we get to understand the struggles of the other person in the relationship and how these issues pushed the speaker away while also limiting how much they are able to move on post-breakup. The chorus was written to be played at max volume; the way it completely explodes adds to the angst of this song’s ambiance. The depravity of wanting to move on is really shown off during the bridge, as you can perfectly understand how much the speaker is pleading. What this song does really well is it’s a great way to introduce listeners to the artistry of Dulcie and genuinely excites you enough to want to know more about her work. Dulcie is an artist based in the Midlands who began making music in 2022. During this time her music was more explorative of the electro-pop scene, but as of recently, her style is more reminiscent of the old-school alternative rock sound. Her style is inspired by artists such as Paramore, No Doubt, Pale Waves, and more. She has taken these inspirations in order to create a unique sound that is both nostalgic and modern. Dulcie has received lots of praise for her powerful singing abilities, as well as her perceptive writing, and it’s clear she will only get better moving forward. “Stay Away (Hope You’re Ok)” is such a great track and Dulcie is such a great artist it will certainly be interesting what steps she takes next. Written By Chantal Charles FOLLOW DULCIE: Instagram   | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

Prepare your summer parties for singer-songwriter Gina Tanzer’s newest single, “I Love a Man in Puka Shells.” The track is a fun EDM-inspired jam about living as a woman who knows her worth and what she wants. Gina says, "This song is one for the corporate girlies out there who are busy focussing on their careers and leveling up rather than being totally absorbed by society's pressures around dating.” “I Love a Man in Puka Shells” is all about confidence—and the track exudes it and then some. With its relaxed sound and Gina’s low-key vocal delivery, the song is perfect for any occasion, from a long drive to sitting on the beach. “I Love a Man in Puka Shells” couldn’t have come at a better time. Much like the summer itself, Gina’s latest release is a chill, fun time that’s all about living it up as much as you can. “I Love a Man in Puka Shells” is basically impossible not to sing along to. The lyrics ooze such fierceness and self-assured attitudes that they act as mantras for all who sing along. Like, come on, “I know you’re only playing games, and I told you I could do the same,” iconic. The instrumental also adds to the song's instantaneous catchiness. Drawing inspiration from various artists like Imagine Dragons and Jon Bellion, Gina’s production is equally unique and cohesive. “I Love a Man in Puka Shells” is snappy, melodic, and relaxed. As one of the first singles from Gina’s upcoming EP, “I Love a Man in Puka Shells,” promises more fun, well-produced pop to look out for. Gina Tanzer is a South African singer, songwriter, and producer who now resides in the U.K. Her musical career began in Cape Town, where she has been featured across several local radio stations and newspapers. She even had the honor of representing her country in the World Championship of Performing Arts in Los Angeles, where she won the gold medal. Since 2024, Gina began officially releasing her self-produced and written songs. Gina’s mantra for her music is to explore juxtaposing ideas and unexpected concepts. Her debut single, “How About Now,” was released in June, and Gina plans to continue rolling out new tracks until 2025. With only two songs under her belt, Gina Tanzer has already shown an incredible range of talent, and you can listen to “I Love a Man in Puka Shells” along with her upcoming discography on streaming services now. Written By Lauren Nolan FOLLOW GINA: Instagram   | Spotify  | TikTok  | Website  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

Dive into a headspace of confidence, feel-good angst, and sweet revenge with Lillian Hepler’s new song “Famous”. This track is a symbol of power, emphasizing an undermined voice in a complex relationship, and providing a safe space for people who have been put in similar situations. With a tale of a former flame unfolding, Hepler’s emotion can be easily felt through clever writing. Phrases such as, “if you’re so ashamed, why are you always dropping my name?” Are not only relatable but a jab back, showing power in the track and Hepler’s stance in this relationship. Beginning this deep dive into Hepler’s world with the intro of “Famous”, her voice brings reminders of people like Amy Winehouse and Ella Henderson. With her more alto-like voice and singing that matches up well with the sound of the song’s instrumental aspects, there’s a jazzy sound embedded in the core of it. On the other hand, there is also pop excellence executed in “Famous”. The song starts off slow and serious, beginning to tell the audience a story, then bursts into a full-pop swing by the chorus.   With a tale of a former flame unfolding, Hepler’s emotion can be easily felt through clever writing. Phrases such as, “if you’re so ashamed, why are you always dropping my name?” Are not only relatable but a jab back, showing power in the track and Hepler’s stance in this relationship. This style of writing and the way it’s pulled off brings comparisons to artists like Olivia Rodrigo. Similar to Rodrigo, Hepler has brilliantly figured out a way to be powerful in her music but send a message of comfort to people who have felt the same way she has/does. In addition, the introduction of backing vocals as well as varying, explosive instruments emphasizes the pop-quality of “Famous”. A blend of brass instruments, drums, etc., fades in when the song escalates – then fades out when Hepler brings her voice into a more serious, deep tone. The use of these elements reminds me of artists such as Bebe Rexha, Ke$ha, and Ava Max. There’s a level of dynamic ability and layering of ear-catching vocals & instruments that is not commonly found and/or executed well, and in “Famous”, it’s all done by an attention-drawing, unique book of Hepler’s. Lillian Hepler is a 22-year-old pop artist born & raised in Utah. From an early age, Hepler knew she wanted to become a performer. At age 13, she began to upload covers of songs. By 15, she was creating original songs. Since then, Hepler has been propelled forward to craft music that showcases who she is. She has gained over 2M followers on TikTok and obtained millions of streams for her singles “Nightmare” and “Easy” from creating personal, versatile pop music. Now based in LA, Hepler is building a musical world that involves themes ranging from universal situations such as being betrayed by an ex-partner to the dissolvement of friendships. Written By Madison Spies FOLLOW LILLIAN HEPLER: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

We’ve been blessed this week with a brand new track from the one and only Merci Mercy! Her latest single, “Angel” has arrived. This is not only an edgy blend of pop and punk, “Angel” is a moody song portraying one grappling with exhaustion, stimulant dependance, and their emotional well-being. The song opens with a passionate exclamation, “I’m so tired all of the time/ It’s the only thing consistent in my life.” Specifically, caffeine and nicotine addiction are spoken about within the track’s lyrics and referred to as her “only friends.” This serves as a metaphor as her stimulants are acting as her comfort and stability in chaotic times. Those who may have experienced similar feelings of exhaustion and burnout will definitely relate to these lyrics; these substances are a coping mechanism many  can identify with. Merci, Mercy is vulnerable and empowering by the end of “Angel,” wherein she exclaims throughout the song’s chorus that she does not need fixing. It’s a fantastic track for anyone struggling with their mental health, and its message of finding solace in the journey is nothing short of motivating. “Angel” by Merci, Mercy is a unique genre-blend of electro-pop and punk influence, the track creates a one of a kind sound which truly stands out in today’s music landscape. There’s a sense of fun and carefree attitude injected into the vocals, and the tone of the song is effortlessly  cool. The instrumentation of “Angel” is synth-like. An electric guitar adds a punchy element to the track, and personally, I believe it’s the star of the show next to Merci, Mercy’s vocals. Speaking of vocals, her delivery is smooth yet vibrant, it works to perfectly complement the song’s playful and rebellious lyrics. Not to mention the stellar production quality, “Angel” will keep listeners hooked from the start. At just 19 years of age, Merci, Mercy has navigated a plethora of crazy experiences which have shaped her distinct voice and position in the music industry. Her childhood was a diverse and culturally rich one, living in both Beijing and Thailand. Now based out of Australia, Merci, Mercy splits her time between the city of Sydney and the mountains of Jindabyne. She has expressed difficulties with living abroad, and it may be some of the inspiration for this new track, “Angel.” As stated above, her music is extremely unique and this quote may explain why, “I never had one favorite artist or type of music- I think my music reflects that too. I’ve always listened to everything, R&B, Indie, Pop, whatever.” It’s clear that through her deep appreciation for a wide variety of music, Merci, Mercy has managed to piece together her very own style. She has been candid and vulnerable ever since her debut single “Fucked Myself Up” and there’s no doubt that her honesty will continue to aid in her success. She currently boasts an impressive 86,253 monthly Spotify listeners, and she’s definitely an artist to watch. If you’re interested in Merci, Mercy’s journey thus far and can’t wait to hear more music, follow her on all of the social media we've linked below! Written By Casey Hascup FOLLOW MERCI, MERCY: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube

Pop newcomer Flo Olavarria just released her latest single “Broke for You” on July 12, 2024. The pop anthem tackles the experience of meeting someone that you want to pursue a relationship with, but are unable to because of the heartbreak you’re still working through from the person before. Laden with infectious pop hooks and gentle vocals, “Broke for You” comes together as a testament to the experience of recovering from a broken heart. Even when you find someone that is seemingly perfect, it’s difficult to piece together your heart and open it up to someone else. Make sure to add “Broke for You” on whatever your favorite streaming streaming service is. “Broke for You” boldly opens with the line, “Give me a reason not to love you / ‘Cause I’m not ready to stay.” Already, she opens up about how the aftermath of her last relationship has made her not ready to commit to anything. In the second verse, she dives deep into introspection, asking herself questions like, “Why can’t I handle such a good thing?” But she knows the answer, and so do we. Because the last time she gave her heart to someone, it broke. This is a relatable experience that Olavarria had been holding onto for years. With this track, set against a dreamy pop backdrop, she gets vulnerable and admits how much she is haunted by her ex. Singer-songwriter Flo Olavarria was born in Chile, and now, is based in Canada. Her cross-cultural background shapes her sound, which is a blend of pop and rock. So far in her budding music career, she has performed for the President of Singapore, been feature in Music Row Magazine and Rolling Stone, and performed across Canada. She has decided to start releasing a new song every month, so if you enjoyed “Broke for You,” there is certainly more to look forward to! You can also keep up with all the latest information on Flo Olavarria and her music by following the social media links below. Written By Sydney Gray FOLLOW FLO: Instagram | Spotify  | Facebook

Marc E. Bassy and Mills & Relo’s new musical collaboration, “Moonlight”, offers a glimpse into the encaptivating feeling of love that makes you see your partner in a beautiful light. It seems as though every move they make, and every interaction you have with them, invigorates powerful new sensations from within you. Their simple presence is enough to make life’s cares melt away and only focus on the happiness they introduced to you. You desire to see them enveloped in beautiful natural things that enhance their beauty. The closeness you feel when you see them enveloped in moonlight on a low tide beach is enough for you. There are days where you fantasize about running around with them, laughing about nothing as the moon rises. Your baseless worries disappear as you experience the beautiful world and how much it highlights the love you deeply feel for them. There is nothing else that matters in the moment you feel overwhelming love. “Moonlight” is an energetic electro and dance pop anthem that seamlessly blends soulful vocals with an EDM production. We are first introduced to a simple yet intriguing instrumentation of percussive elements. These few notes of percussion are solo only for a few seconds before Bassy’s vocals seep in. Throughout this single, the vocals are prominent against the gradually building instrumentation. Those simple percussive elements remain as the building blocks for this single, but are combined with the newly introduced instrumentation. As we reach the chorus, traditional hard-hitting EDM elements come in and seamlessly mix with the powerful vocals. As the beat becomes more prominent, the vocality remains just as stand-out. It can be frustratingly difficult to have so many aspects of a song be so pronounced, but this single makes it clearly effective. Marc E. Bassy is a singer-songwriter currently based in Los Angeles. He began his journey into the music industry when he joined the popular pop group 2AM Club as their lead vocalist. He eventually went solo and gradually rose in his popularity. Instead of focusing on and being in collaboration with a music label, he began running his own label, New Gold Medal, in which he would create and release his own music. Since going solo, he has had the opportunity to collaborate with popular artists such as Kehlani , G-Eazy , blackbear , Quinn XCII , and Charlie Puth . Bassy is constantly working to evolve his approach to his music. He now focuses on confidence and reflection rather than the somber themes he used to incorporate into his work. Make sure to follow him on social media and give “Moonlight” a listen! Written By Willow Gray FOLLOW MARC E. BASSY: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube FOLLOW MILLS & RELO: Instagram | Spotify

Lauren Presley’s latest release, "AMERICAS SWEETHEARTS", is a feminist anthem which offers an expression of the mental excursions which femininity presents.  She lists off categorically, like a set of rules, the standards for womanhood in today’s world.  These each represent a subconscious “requirement” for being a woman which echo through their minds on a daily basis.  The sheer amount of them is overwhelming, but Presley doesn't stop there, to make it even more so, each rule she states is immediately followed by another which undermines it.  Every goal for women is in conflict with another.  This, of course, is well known, being spoken of since the beginning of feminism.  But, every ounce of the song is drenched in modernity.  She presents classic topics, but only those which hold the most relevance to today’s world.  Most of these standards, for instance, present the standards of a woman within her career.  She explicitly references the old school feminism she references, and with praise.  “Used to speak up now I think we’re listening too much” she sings, regarding the new wave of feminism as the slight current it is- compared to the tsunami which came before.  She brings the listener back to the basics, those rules which govern women, that are known to, and that have yet to be overcome, in an attempt to bring the listener back to the basic anger and refusal towards them. The only way to approach such a contextual song is chronologically, so, Presley does so- and in a clever double entendre which calls out to all women.  “We were young once making big plans” she states passionately, referencing not only the literal youth and young women’s ambition, but also the past of feminism itself.  In growing up women are crushed out of these ambitions, and in passing time, the historical desires of women have been similarly smothered.  Her voice presents another element of this new wave twist.  She is a pop perfect vocalist, but her lyrics offer a nearly punk element.  Perhaps the Riot Grrrl movement never died, it simply moved to an unexpected but necessary genre: pop.  Her production certainly seems to imply so.  The instrumentals are metallic with prominent percussion and extended notes which are just short of being electric guitar solos.  And yet, it's not at all acoustic.  Every aspect of Lauren Presley’s creation has accomplished what she set out to, subtly transforming age old topics into something fresh and palatable. She cleverly presents women’s topics into a woman centered genre and allows girls to feel heard within their own scene instead of attempting to translate it towards a stereotypically masculine sound.  It's difficult to make rebelliousness heard through such a gorgeous, feminine, voice but Presley pulls it off magnificently.  Lauren Presley was born in Texas and is now based in Nashville.  Her first release “A Little Longer” is only two years old yet she’s already amassed nearly thirty thousand listeners to date. She’s grown an audience through social media first, boasting over fourteen thousand followers on Instagram and thousands more on Tiktok, platforms she widely uses to promote her songs.  Beyond this outreach, she’s garnered attention from major blogs including Wonderland, Earmilk, and others.  These have proved fruitful with her debut song now holding over one million streams on Spotify and millions more on YouTube.  Find these platforms, songs, and information on any new releases below. Written By Hailey Schap FOLLOW LAUREN PRESLEY: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok   | YouTube