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I have about a dozen plushies on my bed, who doesn't? After listening to this song, plush has a whole new meaning. Canadian singer-songwriter Loviet's newest single, "PLUSH," takes listeners on a self-exploration journey. The instrumental reminded me of "Just Like Heaven" by The Cure, a band Loviet says inspires her. She expresses her femininity by stating that she is not soft and comforting like women are "supposed" to be. There is a scene where she tells her ex that she is not plush. After that, I started to pay very close attention to the meaning behind the lyrics. "PLUSH" is an effortlessly cool, indie-rock song that pulls listeners in with an intensifying production and the push and pull of falling in love. Rock is my favorite genre, and I love it when artists take liberty and make it personal. Drawing from influences like The Killers , The Cure , and the Yeah Yeah Yeah’s . “I wrote this song about the frenzy of falling in love and my experiences and insecurities that being soft is more attractive as a woman," she said. Describing falling in love as a frenzy is a perfect word choice for this song. "The narrative is a battle of yearning and self-awareness; Figuring out what lengths you're willing to take while trying to stay true to yourself despite the emotional chaos of wanting someone.” Over the past six years, Loviet (pronounced like Soviet with an L) has established herself as one of Canada’s brightest up-and-coming artists. Performing at festivals such as Lollapalooza, Summerfest, and Ottawa Bluesfest, she has gained nationwide recognition. From the unabated urgency of her boldly breathtaking anthem "Broken Lips" to the unapologetic roar of "Star Treatment." Loviet hopes her discography can be a soundtrack for moments of reckoning and raw reflection. If you're into catchy and cathartic upheavals that hit hard and leave a lasting mark, make sure to follow Loviet wherever you stream your music. Stream "PLUSH," out now on all platforms. Written By Deanna Moody FOLLOW LOVIET: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube

At the start of the new year, lots of people are searching for change and new beginnings. One of those people is up and coming singer songwriter, Ellis King. She shares the realizations a recent breakup has given her through her single, "Nosedive." The track is jam-packed with lyrics that resonate, such as: "The world spins madly on and so do I." This line repeats many times throughout the song; it's impossible to miss the meaning. It does a great job of encapsulating the song's main idea: even though she is changing, she will continue to grow no matter what happens. There was never a dull moment in the song. While listening, I was relieved that King did not follow the "empty chorus" trend, where singing is nowhere to be found. King graces us with her beautiful voice for the entire two minutes and two seconds of the song. The third verse stuck out to me: "I’d set my contrast to dull/He said my lustre made him feel small/I don’t know why/I felt so ashamed of that." The confusion in this verse made me confident in Kings' songwriting ability. I loved the vulnerability and how it's so heartbreaking, but brushed past like it's just another day. "Nosedive" opens Ellis Kings' new EP and brings us right to the beginning of this era in Ellis' life. About the single, she says, "I wasn’t in a place to write about everything contained in this song immediately, but once I was ready, it came together like honey." She wants to start the year out strong with a hard hitting EP that leaves no stone unturned, as we follow her through the agonising unravelling of a breakup. Her voice remains resolved as she sang over a chugging guitar. The single is full of lines that will hit home for anyone who’s felt pressure to minimise their achievements to protect someone else’s insecurity. Listen to "Nosedive" wherever you stream your music! Pre-save her upcoming EP, "All That Comes After," out February 20th! Written By Deanna Moody FOLLOW ELLIS KING: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube

As the holiday season comes to a close and there's a big kick off for the new year, it doesn't exempt January from feeling dreary and slow. Living through these gray and cold days, it feels like a perfect time for us to dive into new content. Celine Cairo brings us a new song called, Panacea which feels like a folky-fairytale song that reminds us of slowness. Sometimes, starting a new year can be overwhelming - even if you have plenty of goals you want to achieve. This song is the perfect soundtrack to allowing yourself to take things a little slower with enchanting lyrics and tracking. What always rings true to me in terms of great folk music is raw honesty that follow in the lyrics. There's something about stripping things down to mainly an acoustic guitar and vocals that allows that honesty to ring out loudly. There's also something so perfect about the way the guitar's rythym in this song really just feels like when you're bopping up and down in the ocean waves. The lyrics are definitely the spotlight here though with such descriptive writing from Celine. What's important to note is the name of the song, "Panacea" which is another way of saying "remedy." This song talks about the acceptance in different forms which really touched home for me as I just need to accept a season of slowness. Celine Cairo is a singer-songwriter from Amsterdam known for bringing the emotion when it comes to her singing. With over 40 million streams (as an independent artist may we add) their music not only reaches peoples ears but also resonates deeply with audience members around the globe. Celine has already accomplished some truly amazing things in their music career like performing in Carnegie Hall, but no stage is too big for Celine since they're able to capture such an intimate feeling. Celine's newest song can be heard on all streaming platforms. Written By Bre M. FOLLOW CELINE CAIRO: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

“Man Overboard!” is the newest single from Rachel White, a song about realizing just how toxic and untrustworthy an ex-partner is. White details a scary and disheartening occurrence that can happen after leaving a partner: seeing them with someone new almost immediately. It makes you question if that person ever actually loved you, because of how quickly it seems that they moved on. As White also tries to move on from her former significant other, she begins to notice how flawed and strange he was, often shifting from relationship to relationship without taking into account the feelings of the women he was hurting by betraying them. There’s no better way to start off 2026 with a song that has production as bubbly and joyful as “Man Overboard!” does. Every part of the single gives off the vibes of winter, but is also mixed with fun nightlife and partying elements. It begins with these magical synths that dive into the overall sound and work alongside the beat once its introduced, creating that aforementioned atmosphere of a winter wonderland mixed with a fun night out on the town. White also has amazing vocal talent and she adds fun spoken word moments during the verses that emphasize the distinctiveness and originality of “Man Overboard!”. Rachel White is a music artist from and based in Scotland. In July 2020, she released her song “Royalty” to start off her music career. Her first song to be released on streaming services was “Over It” in March 2021. In May 2022, she released her debut EP Hold On . She has released incredible music videos for her songs and has given outstanding live performances throughout her career. "Man Overboard!" is her comeback single after two years and I am so excited to hear what she has in store for 2026. Rachel White is an incredible and very talented up-and-coming star in the music industry! Written By Ashley Adams FOLLOW RACHEL WHITE: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

"I've Had Some Wine" by Emmalee Rainbow takes listeners through the life-defining emotions that come with the transition into adulthood. The song starts with questions that paint a picture of exhaustion and wondering about feeling fulfilled. The lyrics "I'm a child in a grown up body" offer solace to people who don't feel ready for adulthood. Progressing into the chorus, there is a heartwarming message to live in the moment and enjoy the process of getting older. Inspiring words come from the speaker's discussion of spending time with her friends: "I can see the wrinkles forming. I can see our story." The powerful message of this track lets listeners feel supported in their trouble adapting to the responsibilities of adulthood and motivated to enjoy the positives life has to offer. Begins with glowing high notes on the keyboard before electric guitar joins the mix with a resonant sound. Percussion and Emmalee's mid-2000's-esque pop rock vocals begin the verse. Throaty and reflective, the singings shifts between gentle and raw, delivering an authentic emotional voice. The lyrics are slow and balanced through the verse, picking up in volume and pace through out the pre-chorus. Rounded vocals project throughout the chorus in a powerful expression of passion, and through the bridge, vocalizing on an "oh" sound offers a sense of comfort. The dynamic instrumentals and expressive vocals make this track an immersive journey of emotion and sound. Hailing from Los Angeles, Emmalee Rainbow is a musician with talents as a multi-instrumentalist and a singer-songwriter. The indie pop rock artist has grown her presence in the music scene since the release of her debut EP in 2022. She has performed at venues like Los Angeles' The Teragram Ballroom and Molly Malone's . Her career in the spotlight began early with childhood acting appearances on commercials, movies, and television shows including Modern Family and NCIS. Beyond her talents as a musician, Emmalee is also a trained chef. She began the year with a tour across California alongside the musical group, Slacker. Check out the links below to learn more about her music. Written By Hanna Kowal FOLLOW EMMALEE: Instagram | Spotify  | YouTube

With Valentine's Day just a month away, it's time to stock up on catchy breakup songs. This one made me feel like running through a foggy forest with my hood up and headphones on. Ailbhe Reddy's newest single, “That Girl,” tackles the aftershock of a messy breakup. A sour but relatable feeling that Reddy's lyrics convey beautifully. A haunting beat opens the song, instantly hooking me. The explosion of melodies towards the end solidified for me that this song would be going on my playlist. I adore songs that don't simply fade out but make you wish they would never end. As the song progresses, she expresses how she watches the person she loves be with someone else. But, as the title suggests, she is not that girl. I appreciate that the instrumental is not a typical whiny breakup jam. Instead, it sounds almost techno. As Reddy explains, KISS BIG is a breakup record, but not the tidy, acoustic kind. It lives in the messy middle: that disorienting stretch when the life you built with someone collapses, and you’re left trying to figure out who you are on your own. She captures the numbness and confusion that come when you almost lose yourself after losing the person closest to you. The single was written between Dublin, London, New York, and the American Midwest. Reddy is excited to show her new single “That Girl,” the latest offering from her anticipated new album KISS BIG, out on January 30. About the single she shared, “This is one of the record’s emotional anchors. Inspired partly by Fleishman Is in Trouble, it reflects on memory, time, and how impossible it is to stay the same person inside a long love.” KISS BIG goes through the cycle of love, loss, and renewal, and how we always end up back at the start. Throughout the album, Reddy builds a world that feels personal. Stay tuned for this raw, wry, and wide open album coming January 30. Listen to "That Girl" where you stream your music! Written By Deanna Moody FOLLOW AILBHE REDDY: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube

*Courtesy of Adobe Stock* Pop stars can take the stage with unforgettable melodies, catchy lyrics, and rhythmic tracks, but their brand determines their connection to their audience. Rolling Stone Culture Council states the benefits of building a personal brand are “differentiation, fan connection, industry opportunities, and longevity.” This process includes identifying music, color palettes, costumes, fashion, logo designs, packaging, and most importantly, values. Fans crave intimacy with singers. Rebranding promises a persona that listeners can cling to. These ten artists captured attention with a reinvention. 10. Dua Lipa With Future Nostalgia , Dua Lipa brought back retro glamour. She traded the moody tracks, such as "New Rules," in her self-titled debut for the funky tunes. Inspired by '70s disco and '80s synths and bass, her music is perfect for neon lights and roller-skate rinks. Her 2024 album Radical Optimism continued this concept with psychedelic sounds and the Euro-pop rhythm heard in ABBA’s tunes. Get your satin jumpsuits on and leap onto the dance floor. 9. Kesha Kesha had defined herself with 2000s party anthems, auto-tune, and glitter. Her recent album .(...) pumps up the auto-tune and the tempo for hyperpop beats. She presses the pedal to the floor and it's full speed ahead, hands through the sunroof on the highway. The liberation in her journey shines through this rebrand. 8. Addison Rae Addison Rae separated herself from the TikTok-influencer identity through the mentorship of Charli XCX. Her EP AR features the glittery synths, 2000s bass, and 808 drums that powers the 2000s revival. Her self-titled debut album embraces the full pop star persona, reminscient of Britney Spears's music. Addison Rae trades Airpods for wired earbuds, showing up to the celebration with nostalgia. 7. Charli XCX Charli XCX debuted with synth-pop and dark wave textures in her album True Romance . This style was the image of indie pop. In 2017, she embraced the futuristic hyperpop theme in Pop 2 . In 2024, Brat removed the complexities of branding. A neon green cover, basic Calibri font, and clubbing vibes swept fans and new listeners away to vacation "Brat Summer." 6. Olivia Dean Olivia Dean fully defined her brand with her debut album Messy . Before, she was the sweet pop artist. On stage, her style hadn't yet been defined. Now, she takes the spotlight with neo-soul, neutral tones, polka dots, and vintage silhouettes. She blends bossa nova rhythms while taking inspiration from Amy Winehouse and Carole King. 5. Tate McRae Tate McRae's early releases opened the door to her vulnerability. Her passion for music steered from dancing to music. McRae's EP TOO YOUNG TO BE SAD captured listeners with heartbreaking lyricism, but her brand was missing a style that separated her from artists with a similar sound. So Close To What introduced fans to her alter-ego Tatiana. The sporty and fierce popstar with top-tier concert choreography, all while rocking hockey jerseys and adidas joggers. 4. Taylor Swift Taylor Swift has mastered reinvention since leaping from country to pop. Since the release of 1989 , she reappeared with edginess, serpents, and dark synths for Reputation , pastel pink and hearts for Lover, and full cottage-core for Folklore and Evermore . Upon her recent era Life of a Showgirl , she adapts to feathers and luxury for a lens into the Las Vegas performer. Fans are hypnotized by the mystery and appeal in each new era. 3. Beyonc é Beyonc é keeps fans drawn in with each rebrand. From her beginning in Destiny's Child to Lemonade to Renaissance , she has created unique concepts for each album . Cowboy Carter is one of her boldest shifts, using elements of country music. Acoustic guitars and collaborations with Dolly Parton formed a rebrand that reclaimed cultural history. 2. Zara Larrson After a dolphin meme featuring her vocals from "Symphony" went viral, Zara leaned into the humor, brightness, and beach scene. Her album Midnight Sun radiates total "party surfer-girl." On stage, she sports bikini tops, graffiti t-shirts, and Lisa-Frank-esque keychains. Her brand is all about sunshine and "summer isn't over yet." 1. Sabrina Carpenter Sabrina Carpenter's Short n' Sweet sealed away her Disney Channel background and freed her cheeky humor. Her debut album Eyes Wide Open reflected the company's clean, wholesome values. Her most recent albums kept the empowering vibes with playful teasing, pastels, and babydoll dresses. A pop star's brand is a symbol of their evolution and self-discovery. Whether it's lifting off from the start or gaining a wider audience, reinvention is a great way for artists to express new parts of themselves. It's a reminder that art is always changing. Music is a reflection of current events. With each new phase, we can learn something from artists. Who built a powerful rebrand that impressed you? Written By Taylor Sheridan Lempke Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

Andie Yagher breaks into retro tones in her new single, “twenty something.” Yagher’s music flourishes on enchanting guitar strings, her warm voice, and poetic lyricism. Although “twenty something” is a step away from what we’ve heard, the kicks, punches, and small victories in the path of self-discovery are refreshing. The hidden loneliness on the dancefloor, the ache for nostalgia, the trials of standing up, and the weakness of the burnout are true to the organic nature of Yagher’s music. Her lyrics, “Raise the stakes and see/ Keep running,” activate euphoria, the side effect of climbing to the top of the mountain.  Don’t worry, what we love about Yagher’s music is still there. The strumming pattern captures the folk-like sound, perfect for a story around the campfire. Piano notes in the minor key add a twinkle to the song. It’s as if we’re admiring the shimmering life of success, while accepting how far we have to go. As the stomp-and-holler beat pushes us to run, Yagher offers triumph with an '80s-inspired guitar riff. The sharp, electric strings jolt with the familiarity of “we’re halfway there,” from “Living On A Prayer.” Andie Yagher unfolds more stories in the acoustic pop, folk, and country genres. She was born in Los-Angeles and found a passion for singing and songwriting at a young age. Yagher continued her passion as a member of the jazz ensemble and jazz singers, while attending the Harvard-Westlake School. She graduated from Sarah Lawrence College in New York with a bachelor’s degree in Film and Theatre. Andie Yagher brings her creativity together in her songs to create immersive escapes. Written By Taylor Sheridan Lempke FOLLOW ANDIE YAGHER: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube

Picture this: you're in your sophomore year of high school, and everything is confusing and sad for no reason. This song would be playing in the background. As soon as it started, I was fifteen all over again. The slow, melodic strum of an acoustic guitar accompanied by a voice that made me feel euphoric, honestly. Phoric definitely chose the right name to back up his sound. A calm instrumental with hard hitting lyrics. The single perfectly encapsulates that feeling of not knowing if the people you like actually like you back. I was hooked from the first verse: "I know we can′t get there in one day, but I'll just take one step/Can′t sit still anymore, I guess I'll take what I can get." With just that, I knew this was going to be a song I'd enjoy. The lyrics are reminiscent of Lord Huron's songs in the way you feel quickly connected to them. It's ironic that the song's message is how hollow life can be without someone to share it with. It could be that lots of people are all scared of the same thing, and expressing it through music makes it a little less scary. "Remind me of parts of myself I haven't seen in so long/Bring me back down to earth when everyone gets on my nerves." As the song progresses, the longing for someone becomes stronger, but with no one around, he continues to wait. Phoric is an independent artist from Miami, Florida. There is something about an artist continuing to produce without the backing of a large label that makes the music more enjoyable. He describes his sound as blending cinematic production, heartfelt lyrics, and emotion. He is dedicated to crafting music that reflects universal themes of personal growth and finding beauty in the struggle of living. Phoric hopes that his music will be a soundtrack to all the highs and lows of life. His name--short for euphoric--brings his message full circle. Stream "Fool" by Phoric wherever you get your music, and follow Phoric on social media to stay up to date on new releases! Written By Deanna Moody FOLLOW PHORIC: Instagram | Spotify   | TikTok   | Facebook   | YouTube

Continuing the revival and evolution of their creative spirits, Seafret have been busy gearing up for the release of their latest studio album, Fear of Emotion . The duo has given us a sneak peek at what's to come on the album, teasing fans with the fresh, meaningful lyricism and addictive quality of their newest single "Signal Fire." Explaining the inspiration behind the song, Seafret shared, “‘Signal Fire’ was written as a reminder that help exists and you never have to face the darkness on your own. The story in the verses centers on a relationship, but we wanted the chorus to be more universal and reach beyond that.” Embracing the signature sound fans have grown to know and love, Seafret have delivered another genre-bending single with "Signal Fire," weaving elements of folk-pop with pop-rock. The track features an open-hearted narrative coupled with an optimistic soundscape, showcasing a mix of driving beats, anthemic melodies, and explosive instrumentals laced with a characteristic, flowing banjo. Feeling almost timeless and nostalgic in a way, "Signal Fire" is reminiscent of both modern and earlier folk-pop hits, making it the perfect discovery for fans of Train , Noah Kahan , The Lumineers , and Mumford & Sons . A decade into their career, Seafret are a duo comprised of two best friends and musical co-conspirators, Jack Sedman and Harry Draper. Neither musician could have predicted the success they have seen, riding the wave of their hit single, "Atlantis," as it reemerged into the limelight through a viral TikTok moment that has gifted the pair over a billion streams and 10 million monthly Spotify listeners. Over the years, Seafret have built an impressive catalog, having released three studio albums as well as several EPs and singles. They're off to a strong start in 2026, giving us much to be excited about on the horizon as we all anticipate the release of Fear of Emotion . Written By Cheyenne Johnson FOLLOW SEAFRET: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Love is a powerful drug, and sometimes it leads you down the wrong roads. Evan James seeks closure in his second single, “Sober.” This situationship is something he can’t quit. Recklessness disguises itself under the charm of meeting in secret. But when his heart slows to a steady rhythm, James knows that this “forbidden romance” is ruining him. The addictive rush consumes his life and interrupts his relationships. Healing isn’t easy. “Sober” layers a retelling of the cycle over dance-pop production. James’s single “Sober” successfully thrives on the contrast between laid-back chords and pumped-up percussion. Every time the chorus plays, the song steps into the night-club atmosphere, with kicks, hi-hats, and a bass that makes you jump. The acoustic guitar reverberates and echoes with a tranquility. The R&B melody keeps him in a steady state of mind until he’s craving the rush again. As the beat and the guitar collide, the minor chord is a reminder of the indecisiveness that exists in the cycle. Evan James is a Toronto-based singer-songwriter with a passion for pop music. His lyrics explore relationships with emotionally unavailable and guarded men. He draws on his experiences to create music that reflects the breakthrough into intimacy. Like “Sober,” it’s not always easy to reach a partner’s heart. His debut single, “Cool Skin,” released in 2025, features an R&B melody and a softer approach to exploring emotions. Follow Evan James and check out the links below to stay updated. Written By Taylor Sheridan Lempke FOLLOW EVAN JAMES: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Aiko’s version of the femme fatale seduces her audience with her signature gritty guitar and hardcore synthesizers in her latest song, “Time.” The singer’s lyrics exude the flirtatious and calculated nature of Catwoman, teetering on the ledge between fun and trouble. She’s stealing hearts without a second thought. Aiko tempts her next victim with the empty promise, “I wanna give you all my time…Treat you like you’re mine.” When it all ends, she leaves you wanting more. ​Every element of Aiko’s “Time” connects like a red thread tied to the pinned photos of a plan. Aiko worked with long-time collaborator and producer Steven Ansell . The drums and bass hit with the edge of Metric’s album Fantasies,  mixed with the adrenaline-rush tempo in Ari Abdul’s EP Fallen Angel . String synthesizers create an elegant yet dreamy mood, reflecting the enigmatic allure of a film noir heroine. Grungy guitars roar with feedback, reminiscent of a fast getaway in a convertible. Her song leaves a trail of diamonds, pearls, and broken hearts. The power is in Aiko’s hands. Aiko thrives in sounds that echo rebellion and recklessness. Throughout her discography, she leans more and more into the rock riffs. However, the singer started with an organic sound similar to Florence & The Machine. After competing in the Czech-Slovak talent show, “ SuperStar ,” she released her self-titled album in 2018. Moscow-born, Czech Republic-raised, and London-based, she combines elements of the cultures into her music. Check out the links below to hear her other tracks and keep up with Aiko. Written By Taylor Sheridan Lempke FOLLOW AIKO: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube