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“Messy” appears on Jenna Kay's new EP "Smartsass." The track is about owning the chaos. It’s for the girls who feel everything deeply, say what they mean, and aren’t afraid to admit that life doesn’t always come wrapped in a perfect little bow. There is a no questions asked mmentality about the lyrics. Kay's vocals convey the desperation of trying to get your feelings out. With punchy guitars, bold hooks, and sharp, witty lyrics, the track turns emotional overload into confidence and attitude. Fans of edgy, female-driven pop rock with personality and bite will connect instantly. It’s unapologetic, relatable, and built for playlists that celebrate strong voices and real stories. Jenna Kay is a pop artist redefining what it means to be a modern artist in Music City. Kay's musical journey began when she performed on stage in musical theater and in lead roles that helped shape her confidence, discipline, and emotional delivery. Her early exposure to both pop and rock influences, paired with years of live performance, built the foundation for the dynamic artist she is today. After relocating to Nashville, Kay immersed herself in songwriting, performance, and artist development, quickly establishing herself as a compelling voice with a strong visual and musical identity. She plays both piano and guitar and is known for writing songs that feel personal yet universally relatable. Coming off a win in 2025 for Vocal Artist with Nashville Music Awards. She was named 2026 Top 10 Songwriter with NSAI, the "Smartsass" album was released in February 2026. Her branding reflects the same balance found in her music: strong yet feminine, polished yet fearless. Jenna Kay stands for individuality, resilience, and being a “Smartsass” in a world that often expects artists to fit into boxes. As she continues to release new music and expand her reach, Jenna Kay is emerging as a powerful voice in pop, one rooted in story, strength, and staying true to herself. "Messy" is out now on all streaming platforms. Make sure to follow Jenna Kay on social media for updates on new releases. Written By Deanna Moody FOLLOW JENNA KAY: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube

With the 2026 Winter Olympics having concluded on February 22nd , most of us have been left transfixed with the sheer talent and skill of the world's ice skaters. Team USA’s three female skaters, Alysa Liu, Isabeau Levito, and Amber Glenn (better known as the “Blade Angels”) have captivated the world with their graceful and powerful performances, but how did they choose what music to skate to? Well, today, we’re going to talk about just that. So let’s dive in and discuss the musical process in Olympic ice skating. Unique Style The first, and maybe most obvious factor in how Olympic skaters choose their music is by their own unique style. Each skater has a particular flow, rhythm, and personality, so their music choice has to best reflect that. For instance, Isabeau Levito skates with a classic style, leading her to choose music reminiscent of skating legends that came before her. “Almost in Your Arms” by Ray Evans and Jay Livingston, used in Levito’s short program, is a song from 1958. She also opted for Gillian Hills’ “Zou Bisou Bisou” from 1962. These choices mirror Levito’s vintage performance style perfectly, sonically supporting her and enhancing the artistry of the program. Meanwhile, other skaters who took to the ice in this year’s games opted for more modern stylistic choices. Ilia Malinin, for instance, skates with dramatic flair. For his free skate performance this year, he chose a song called, “The Ball” by Asaf Avidan from 2021. However, he narrated his own poem over the song, title, “A Voice”, reflecting his own determination and perseverance in his performance. The overall vision of Malinin’s free skate felt serious, passionate, and driven. No wonder he could land that backflip so effortlessly. Athleticism Choosing music for a skating routine requires more than just artistry. Each skater’s athleticism plays a large part in the songs they choose. Music comes as a part of the training process. Skaters most often have their own coaches and choreographers to help make each program a reality, designing and tuning the routine to the skater’s greatest strengths. Before choosing a song, the skater and their team have to decide on a few things. Which jumps are they the most practiced on? How high can they jump? How much time is needed to gain momentum? Which stunts are going to be performed early and which are saved for the finale? All of these questions factor into the song length and overall feel. It’s all about showcasing the skater’s hard work in the most optimal way. The Audience Finally, the last remaining factor in choosing music for Olympic ice skating comes with the audience (and judges) in mind. While the song choices are most certainly personal preference for the skater, they also must grab the attention of the audience. We wouldn’t be so captivated if the music didn’t make sense for the skater’s routine. For instance, short programs and free skate performances tend to be more traditional, powerful, and emotional in nature. They’re a showcase of skill, artistry, and competition in their purest form. Meanwhile, exhibition performances give skaters a unique opportunity to have fun and be themselves. This year’s exhibition gala included music from Lady Gaga, Shakira, and Pitbull. Team Korea even used music from the iconic film, “KPop Demon Hunters”. It’s all about putting on a good show and getting the crowd hyped up. The audience plays a bigger part than we think. So, what do you think? Did this year’s Olympic figure skaters dazzle you with their song choices? Did you have any favorite performances? Feel free to let us know at any of our socials below. Written By Shelbi Baker Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

Don’t let the title fool you: Paige Galdieri's new single, " Rich Daddies," is a soulful tune that ponders what could have been. With lyrics like, "I wonder what it’s like to live high above the city/A pent house with diamonds/The world seems greater up at this height." The song takes listeners through all the what-ifs that come along with pursuing your dreams. Galdieri acknowledges the risks that come with going after what you want. Specifically, the difficulties of navigating your way in an industry where many positions are decided by proximity. "If I could just have her hair and/The clothes that she wears/Stop giving it all to the/Girls with rich daddies," are some of the lyrics that drive this point home. Paige Galdieri is a multi-hyphenate performer whose talents span comedy, music, and acting. She captivates audiences with her spot-on celebrity impressions and sharp comedic voice, while also moving listeners as a skilled singer-songwriter, crafting melodies and lyrics that resonate on a deeply personal level. Whether commanding the stage with powerhouse vocals or infusing a scene with humor and authenticity, Paige's versatility shines through in every performance. About "Rich Daddies," she says, "This song is about the uncertainty of pursuing creative dreams with hurdles, like nepo babies, and doing so despite it." In addition to her work as a performer, Paige brings a wealth of behind-the-scenes expertise as a social media manager for some of today's top comedians and musicians. Her marketing savvy and industry insight give her a unique edge, allowing her not only to create but also to strategically amplify the projects she's part of. With her rare blend of artistry, comedic prowess, and promotional expertise, Paige continues to carve out a creative career that is as dynamic as it is impactful. Make sure to follow Paige on social media to stay up to date with new releases. Stream "Rich Daddies" wherever you listen to music. Written By Deanna Moody FOLLOW PAIGE GALDIERI: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube

On February 20, 2026, Hilary Duff released her fantastic sixth album luck… or something . Each open and truthful track relates to experiences many women face regarding the highs and lows of romance, falling out of touch with loved ones, and dealing with life in general. T R A C K L I S T Weather For Tennis Roommates We Don't Talk Future Tripping Growing Up The Optimist You, From The Honeymoon Holiday Party Mature Tell Me That Won't Happen Adult Size Medium Although the world first knew Hilary Duff as an actress, and for her iconic roles such as Sam Montgomery and Natalie Connors , the movie based on her show Lizzie McGuire would feature the song "What Dreams Are Made Of" and propel her into additional fame, now within the music industry as well. Her 2003 album Metamorphosis and 2004 eponymous record were released to excited fans who would love her music as much as they did her acting. In 2007, she released Dignity , establishing her musical identity and showing her ability to shift genre styles with ease. These albums, including her 2015 work Breath In. Breath Out. , all debuted and peaked in the top five of the Billboard 200 charts . After this incredible feat, she would put a pause on her music career and star in shows such as Younger and How I Met Your Father . In 2026, she has made her anticipated and virtuoso return with luck… or something . Weather For Tennis The first track of the album sounds like autumn leaves falling as the lyrics explain how it’s not worth being a people pleaser for those who don't deserve you. A toxic partner takes advantage of Duff’s kindness and generosity in trying to fix their problems, but that still doesn’t work in the end, often causing fights and arguments, and creating what feels like an inescapable cycle. The unfit significant other thinks that everything must always go their way, and they act out when this doesn’t happen, showing their immaturity and lack of respect for her. Roommates As a relationship that was once filled with love and passion begins to fade and come apart, Duff wishes that she and her partner could return to how they once were. What used to be an adventurous and thriving coupling has become stale and isolating, and she sings about how she is afraid to approach this topic in a conversation with her partner without startling them. The production of "Roommates" is magical and fits into the subgenre of power pop, especially with its reverberated drums and elegant backing vocals. We Don't Talk There’s nothing more painful than a falling out with a family member you’ve always been really close to. Duff describes the sadness and anger she feels in regards to her own experience of this in “We Don’t Talk”. When you feel different and pushed away from someone you’ve related to all your life, it’s confusing and makes you wish things could be the way they once were, a common theme expressed in the album so far. This track's theme coincides with the stripped-down acoustic production and schematic instrumentation, which feature a beautiful steel drum. Future Tripping The term “Future Tripping” in the context of track 4 of the album means the anticipatory anger Duff knows she’ll get because of her partner’s frustrating behavior. What may seem like paranoia from the singer about the shadiness her significant other exudes is the result of being in toxic relationships in the past where her exes have actually betrayed her; she questions the integrity of this relationship because she doesn’t want this to happen to her again. Bubbly synths create the overall soundscape of this track, supplemented by Duff's harmonies. Growing Up Duff reflects on love and loss in the track “Growing Up”, a song that gives light on the harsh reality of, as the title says, “Growing Up”, and having to deal with adult situations such as taking care of a family and the financial aspects that come with doing so. Also, the older you get, the more people you lose touch with that were once pivotal in your life. This is because of how busy you become with work and family, leaving you unable to sustain a proper social life. Listening to this song makes you feel like you're watching a coming-of-age movie with its fun and playful instrumentation. The Optimist More distinct production and clever use of instruments can be heard on “The Optimist” as it shares the dark and real truth about pushing down emotions and always feeling like you have to maintain a fake smile. Duff connects this to her estranged father, who shares the same distant relationship as she does with her sister. Duff explains how hard it is to have to put on a brave face while dealing with family issues regarding multiple members. A song like this can be classified as a mix of pop and neofolk with its arrangement of drums and mystifying ambience. You, From The Honeymoon Track 7 of the album mirrors track 2 because of how Duff wants a romantic relationship she's in to return to its "honeymoon phase". She reminisces about the zeal and effort that her partner used to put into the relationship, and sings about how she wants this back. This implies that things just aren’t the way they used to be, but Duff wants to reignite the past and the feelings that came with it. "You, From The Honeymoon" contains outstanding musical elements and lovely melodies that make it a one of a kind song, as well as one of my favorite tracks from luck… or something . Holiday Party Relationship insecurities similar to those from “Future Tripping” make a return in track 8 of the album. Duff expresses how much these feelings upset her and impact her relationship. She feels bad for assuming the worst, but finds it very difficult to fight these feelings. Each section of "Holiday Party" is different from one another, incorporating varying sounds and editing styles that symbolize the turmoil the singer faces throughout the song. Additionally, the title of the track is a reference to a workplace affair, where cheating commonly occurs, more specifically in a situation involving drinking, such as a "Holiday Party". Mature The eerie line that older individuals often say as an attempt to attract those far younger than them, “You’re so mature for your age”, is what Duff centers the ninth track of the album around. She describes the common occurrence of people leaving their current partners to be in a relationship with a large age gap, and to prey on the innocence of impressionable young adults. In spite of this lyrical content, "Mature" consists of very upbeat and cheerful synths, beats, and guitar chords; the combination of songwriting and production maintain the flow of luck… or something . Tell Me That Won't Happen In the penultimate track of the album, orchestral instrumentation is woven with joyful and unique synths. Duff tries to dismiss the feelings she has expressed about her relationship fears and wants to put all of her trust in her partner. She wants to make sure she is with her one true love, because she doesn’t want to waste her time and emotions on someone that will stab her in the back and take her for granted. She knows this precaution is necessary based on the poor relationship experiences she has penned and sung about throughout the record. Adult Size Medium Duff closes the album with a sonically enchanting blast to the past; what could be considered “the good old days”, where everyday was filled with endless excitement, and all the fun and riveting moments felt like they would last forever. Tracing back to “Growing Up”, the events that occur in “Adult Size Medium” are a prequel to what Duff goes through in the former track. Another coming-of-age production style, an amplified 808 is used for the rhythm of the song, and was designed by the producers to fit perfectly with the infectious synths and electrifying instruments. luck… or something  is an amazing record - I just love everything about it! Although I’m familiar with Hilary Duff’s past musical work, this was my first time listening to an album of her’s. The expert production skills and her cohesive and intricate storytelling and songwriting skills have made me plan to listen to her other albums as well. In addition to this, her vocal talent has greatly strengthened and increased throughout her career, as it’s one of the key elements of this new project. Duff is to embark on her The Lucky Me Tour starting in June of 2026. Hilary exudes nothing but pure talent, with luck… or something  proving just that even further. Written By Ashley Adams FOLLOW HILARY DUFF: Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

Andie Yagher has released her new song, “Sweatshirt.” Looking to comfort someone who may be scared or anxious, Yagher reassures that she will always be there for them, likening herself to a sweatshirt in cold weather or cold rooms. We all have comfort items that we either carry with us or wear when we need extra support, and Andie makes no exception when referring to herself as the listener’s “treasured, jersey sweater.” With the promise to be there for the listener, Yagher not only reassures throughout the song and reminds them that she understands, but also allows the listener to feel as if they always have someone in their back corner. Click here to listen to "sweatshirt"! Yagher’s soft vocals carry throughout “Sweatshirt.” Like the sweatshirt alluded to in the title, Yagher creates a comfortable presence and allows listeners to relax. “Sweatshirt” as a song carries a message that is important for listeners to hear: they are never alone, no matter how lonely they feel. This message going out to listeners who may be carrying the burdens that they hold all alone may inspire them to open up, or provide some relief for those who don’t know anyone to help them with the burdens. With that said, Yagher not only creates an anthem for those who choose to support the weight of these burdens, but a safe space for those who do carry these burdens. Andie Yagher is an American singer-songwriter. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Yagher was always drawn to music. Beginning to write music after learning guitar, Yagher has found herself among up-and-coming folk-pop musicians where she stands out for her acoustic production and soft vocals. When not writing music or singing, Yagher also is an award-winning actress. Graduating from Sarah Lawrence College with a bachelor’s degree in film and theatre, it seems like Yagher can accomplish anything. If listeners would like to keep up with Andie Yagher’s newest releases, they can follow her on social media, linked down below.  Written By Abby Mornhinweg FOLLOW ANDIE YAGHER: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok

If you know anything about the stars and planets, you know about Pluto. Pluto used to be in the elite planets that are granted into our solar system. He used to live the celebrity life, highlighted with the other planets, until he was knocked down to dwarf status, leaving the solar system with its current eight planets. Andelyn Bree’s newest single “pluto’s luck” cleverly compares her luck in love to Pluto’s luck as a planet. They used to be going strong and steady, until she was bumped out of orbit and into heartbreak. Bree uses a folk-indie twang to tell her story, and the lyrics she sings perfectly encapsulate the feelings of confusion and discouragement. The soundscape of this track is a mix between the spinning, face paced guitar twang and Bree’s soft ethereal voice. She opens the song in the first verse with her analogies of both luck and astronomy, referencing four leaf clovers and the stars aligning to create constellations, and how she never quite understood how they all fall perfectly into place. In the chorus, she sings, “We were perfect in all writing / And they told me there's no rush, in love / Guess I'm stuck with Pluto's Luck”. Bree demonstrates true lyrical talent in her bridge, where she sings two vocal parts on top of each other: new lyrics and her original chorus. Her goal was to have them spinning around each other, mimicking a planet’s orbit. Towards the end, they finally synch together, demonstrating the clarity that finally hits Bree as her brain stops spinning: she has been dismissed from this relationship just like Pluto was from the solar system. At just 16 years old, Andelyn Bree already has two singles and over 1,000 monthly listeners. A folk- pop singer-songwriter based in Orange County, California, Bree was born with music in her veins. She began to sing and play the piano at her church at a young age, and since then has turned her musicality into her career. Her lyrics bring a light and perspective only a young girl can have, as she writes about her world around her. She sings about love, loss, and growing up, and takes inspiration from other female artists such as Taylor Swift, Gracie Abrams, and Kacey Musgraves, while adding her own softness and unique vocal tone. Make sure to follow the social medias below to stay tuned for more music from Andelyn Bree as she grows in her career and discography. Written By Tessa Maddaloni FOLLOW ANDELYN BREE: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube

Anie Delgado’s new single, Without You, is an adult contemporary song about grieving someone who is still alive and coming out the other side better for it. When a relationship is over, you will take time to grieve the emotional loss of a partner and potential future with them. For non-musicians, catharsis may look something like journaling, venting to friends, or starting a new diet/exercise routine. For musicians, catharsis is literally writing music about the grief they're experiencing. Either way, it's part of the process of healing. Without You has deep and mature lyrics over a well balanced production. “Can’t take back some things I remember. Heart turned cold from a place we entered. Must grow, I know, when the words turn into stone.” This song really reminds me of Ariana Grande . I love the versatility of Anie’s voice and the way she seamlessly hits the intended high notes. You can hear the individual elements of pop, R&B, hip hop, and EDM throughout the song. If you are an Ariana Grande fan like me or if you just like good pop music with great vocals, you’ll really appreciate this song. Anie Delgado is a Cuban-American artist and songwriter who was born and raised in Miami, Florida, but currently resides in Los Angeles. Growing up, she was inspired by everything from Latin music to surf rock to classic rock to modern day pop queens. Shortly after high school graduation, she moved to New York City to study performing arts. After she relocated to Los Angeles in 2018, she released her debut single “Galaxy” and has steadily released music ever since whilst carving out her own footprint in the indie pop world. Written By Jazz FOLLOW ANIE DELGADO: Instagram | Spotify  | YouTube

Artwork: Christian Calvin Shot by: Izzy Escobar “Prettyboy” is the title track of musician Mira Housey ’s new EP, a song about being in a relationship that causes intense, conflicted feelings due to your partner’s behavior. In the singer’s case, her partner is a two-sided person, acting as though he is the perfect significant other, but Housey also says that “he scares [her] half to death”. This song and its title symbolize how this man appears to be a good individual on the outside, but is actually a toxic and unfit partner, as he makes her feel scared and underappreciated. Lines in the song such as “Don’t let my pretty boy go” can mean that she doesn’t want to leave the relationship because of the one side her partner possesses, even though he actually opposes that with his other side. Housey is the sole songwriter and producer of the majority of her discography, and it’s obvious how much work she put into “Prettyboy”, through the musical styles and her amazing vocals. A swingin’ 60s beat and orchestral instrumentation is what the core of the track consists of, and the singing style she utilizes perfectly accompanies this as well. While still using her skills from being a pianist, a sample of sudden and loud guitar chords interrupt the song. These add a distinct and creative twist to the classical pop production, and reflect the lyrics that describe the personality switches of a two-faced partner. Mira Housey is a multitalented artist from Detroit, Michigan, and is based in Los Angeles, California. She began perfecting her musical craft throughout her childhood, teaching herself piano and songwriting. After competing in piano competitions, she began her music career in September 2021 with the release of her collaborative single “So Bad” featuring the musician jfarr . She released her debut EP Mia  in November 2024. One of the tracks, “if it’s the end (feat . Jake Clark )”, was featured in season 7 of the sports drama show All American . Mira Housey is an incredible presence in the music industry, and her most recent project prettyboy  is out now! Written By Ashley Adams FOLLOW MIRA HOUSEY: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook | YouTube

"Temporary Tragedy" comes as the first single following ROREY's sophomore EP DYSPHORIA . As indicated by the title, the lyrics tell the story of an unraveling relationship defined by the singer/songwriter as a temporary tragedy. ROREY examines the cost of one's personhood as the price to be paid when trying to stay in a dysfunctional relationship.   Repeated throughout the song, alternating between acceptance and despair, the musician sings the line "are we a temporary tragedy?" Rooted in the singer's experience in her first queer relationship, ROREY acknowledges the song to be both personal and universal, sending the message that "sometimes love isn’t enough to bridge the gap between hope and reality, when the other person can't meet you there." ROREY wastes no time getting to the grit of this bedroom pop track, announcing her transfixing voice a beat after the buoyant acoustic guitar begins. The instrumentals seem to mirror the intensity of the relationship, capturing both its chaos and beauty. High-energy vocal runs and a cathartic chorus contribute to the song's sense of urgency. The build-up of both vocal and instrumental tracks warn that a break is coming, signaling both the end of the song and the tumultous relationship. Intensifed by its raw lyrics, the soundscape of "Temporary Tragedy," emulates the hole of spiraling that often occurs after a relationship falls apart. ROREY has received acclaim from the likes of Zane Lowe, LADYGUNN , Atwood Magazine and more. Her music has received adds on popular Spotify editorial playlists including Fresh Finds, Fresh Finds Indie, New Music Daily, New in Pop, etc. The singer-songwriter is based in New York where she has already performed a number of live shows. ROREY's vulnerability connects with audiences by giving them the ability to name their feelings and the solace to know that they are not alone in feeling them. In 2026, ROREY will continue to sharpen her sound by continuing to demonstrate the importance of authenticity in art. Written By Azalea Withrow FOLLOW ROREY: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube

Somewhat recently, I was thinking about certain bands from the 70s/80s. It’s always fascinating watching the music industry go from one thing to the next in terms of what’s popular but personally, I haven’t felt like we’ve had as much passion and creativity as we did back in those decades. Listening to “Drive.” by Marty Kolls gives me a sense of what that passion could’ve sounded like. At first listen, my first instinct was how much it reminded me of Bon Jovi. Where it somehow walks the line of country and rock music. As the song continues, though, so many other influences come to mind like Kate Bush while also weaving in modern sounds. Being able to make a song bring in sounds of nostalgia is not an easy task but Marty does a perfect job at handling that. The song begins with a dreamy sound scape that really throws listeners into a feeling of zen. One of the best things that this song brings is the drum track. What sounds like something right out of Stranger Things, the drum track really captures that feeling of the 80's. So much synth while somehow still making it relevant to the music that we're hearing today, Marty Kolls does such an excellent job while tying everything together with the lyrics. As a writer, I always love being able to take two things and map them to each other. One of the first things that Marty talks about in this song is the feeling of losing control but knowing that when you're driving, that's the one thing you do have. The lyrics really flex Marty's emotional impact on the music and it's something that is so incredibly refreshing to see. Marty Kolls is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist that somehow has mastered pop, folk and soul allowing their music to reach a huge range of audiences. Being able to take these sounds and blend them with incredible storytelling capabilities, relatability, honesty and storytelling really allow listeners to feel like Marty is speaking directly to their own situation. Marty is incredibly passionate about bringing out the care in their music by living through making art not for the sake of practice but because it's a way of living. "Drive." is Marty's latest single and can be found streaming on all streaming platforms. Written By Bre Macomber FOLLOW MARTY KOLLS: Instagram | Spotify  | Facebook  | YouTube

Country-pop superstar Megan Moroney has had a whirlwind career since the release of her single, “Tennessee Orange,” in 2022. I discovered Moroney on TikTok in early 2022 when she posted a snippet of her song, “Hair Salon.” Since then, I’ve watched her skyrocket to new levels of fame and success. Moroney’s third studio album, Cloud 9,  was released on February 20, 2026, following much excitement. This record is, hands down, her strongest yet. While I love her first two albums, Lucky  and Am I Okay? , Cloud 9  has absolutely stolen my heart. Tracklist Cloud 9 Medicine 6 Months Later Stupid Beautiful Things Convincing Liars & Tigers & Bears I Only Miss You (ft. Ed Sheeran) Wedding Dress Change of Heart Bells & Whistles (ft. Kacey Musgraves) Table For Two Wish I Didn’t Who Hurt You? Waiting On the Rain Cloud 9 As the album’s title track, “Cloud 9,” opens with a dreamy guitar and melody that invokes the feeling of floating on air. As a longtime Moroney fan who knows that she typically doesn’t write love songs, this is the romantic track I, and other lover girls, have been waiting for.  This song explores the butterflies and the bliss of true love. Even when life and its inconveniences arise, knowing that your partner will be waiting for you with open arms at the end of the day makes those things seem insignificant.  Some lyrics in this song are reminiscent of “Happy & Sad” by Kacey Musgraves, who Moroney has cited as one of her biggest inspirations and who is featured on the latter half of this album. In Musgraves’ song, she sings, “I never felt so high // No, I’ve never been this far off the ground // And they say everything that goes up, must come down // And I don’t wanna come down.”  Meanwhile, in “Cloud 9,” Moroney plays off the age-old adage of being on “Cloud 9.” However, this relationship is so euphoric that Moroney feels that she’s even higher than that. Medicine “Medicine”  is a honky-tonk track that playfully seeks vengeance on a cheating ex by giving them “a taste of [your] own medicine.” While a stark immediate contrast to the title track, “Medicine” still truly sets the stage for the overall upbeat nature of this album. It has an old-school twang that has been missing in the modern country scene, while still being inviting to the newer generation of country listeners. The song is a snappy and biting showcase of Moroney’s razor-sharp wit.  6 Months Later “6 Months Later” was the first single of the album, released in June 2025, and has achieved major commercial success by reaching #29 on the Billboard Hot 100. This was a perfect introduction to this new, pop-heavy era for Moroney and has been a hit among fans since its release. Though I’ve heard this song countless times since its debut last summer, “6 Months Later” still lives up to the hype.  It’s one of the catchier tracks on the album that describes the moment an ex tries to get back into Moroney’s life long after she has moved on. She sings, “When you couldn’t care more, I couldn’t care less // You’re a little too late to the party, heartbreaker // What doesn’t kill you calls you six months later.” For those of us who believe that they always come back one way or another, this song is all too relatable. Furthermore, this song is a prime reminder that what doesn’t kill you only makes you “stronger and hotter.” Stupid “Stupid” is a standout track on this album for me, and not just because I can relate to it!. With her tongue-in-cheek lyrics, Moroney pokes fun at a guy for ghosting her by implying that, despite him not being the brightest star in the sky, there’s no way he’d be stupid enough to let a girl like her go.  It speaks to feelings we’ve all had when someone we liked didn’t text us back. Moroney tries to rationalize how someone who isn’t even on her level could give up the chance to be with her. While the guy she wants, “probably couldn’t spell valedictorian,” she’s “humble and most days attractive.” If she’s the whole package, the only logical explanation for her love interest’s silence is that something terrible has happened that is keeping them from getting to their phone.  The track is upbeat and spunky, and it’s bound to be on the setlist for Moroney’s upcoming tour. In true Moroney fashion, she uses her glittery gel pen to put a fun spin on a negative situation. Beautiful Things “Beautiful Things” is a ballad written for Moroney’s niece that tugs on the heartstrings with every listen. When talking about the meaning behind the song, Moroney said, “When she was born, I remember being in awe of how sweet and perfect she was… I was sad knowing that when she grows up, the world may be cruel to her sometimes." When reflecting on the song, Moroney also stated that this song is one she wishes she could have given to her younger self.  The backing instrumentals are simple yet beautiful, allowing the lyrics to shine. The emotion in Moroney’s voice is evident as she sings, making the song even more heartfelt and raw. This track is a true testament to the growth of her songwriting. Convincing “Convincing” is one of my favorites on this album because of its dreamy instrumentals and its skeptical, yet hopeful, love-at-first-sight lyrics. As a hopeless romantic and a major realist when it comes to love, this song would easily fit into one of my favorite romantic comedies.  The best songs are the ones that we can imagine ourselves in. When listening to this track, it’s easy to get swept up in the image of spending one magical evening with someone you know you’re about to fall in love with, but knowing you should probably stop yourself before you do. It’s full of butterflies and the tentative hopefulness of meeting someone for the first time and instantly clicking with them. While in the back of your mind, you know you might just be caught up in the moment and the romantic scenery, you’re still wishing that this will last beyond a single night. “Convincing” is one of the shortest songs on the album, clocking in at just under three minutes, but it makes a lasting impact and is an easy listen to put on repeat. Liars & Tigers & Bears “Liars & Tigers & Bears” is one of the best songs on this album. While this song is written to Moroney’s experience as a woman navigating the experience of being one of country’s rising stars, it is relatable even for those of us who do not work in the music industry daily; we have all had falling outs with friends, tense relationships with coworkers, or generally felt unwelcome in spaces we deserve to occupy. While the play off the common children’s expression, “lions, and tigers, and bears, oh my!” could easily become cheesy, Moroney expertly navigates around this pitfall to create an insightful track that displays her maturity and longevity as an artist.  I Only Miss You (ft. Ed Sheeran) Featuring Ed Sheeran, “I Only Miss You” is one of the tracks on this album that I’m not 100% sure how to feel about. It’s a slow, lamenting guitar ballad that speaks to the heartbreak felt long after a relationship has ended.  Moroney yearns for this person, only missing them “when [I’ve] been drinking, and [I’ve] been drinking all the time.” This song feels like a classic country heartbreak tune that I’d hear at my favorite karaoke bar. It has a nostalgic quality that adds to its devastating honesty. While I enjoy the track overall, I feel it would have been stronger featuring a male country singer with more twang, rather than Sheeran. I grew up listening to his music, so while I typically enjoy his vocals, I’m not sure if they were best for this song. That being said, I don’t know many male vocalists in the current state of the country scene, so I’m not sure whose voice would best be lent to this track instead. Overall, this track is good, but a bit less polished than some of the others on the album. Wedding Dress “Wedding Dress” is a song that I needed when I was 20 years old, convinced I would never get over my first love following our breakup. It’s a heartwrenching track that can only be written after experiencing such a great loss. Moroney fearfully wonders if she will ever fully move on and be happy without this person again, or if she’ll be comparing every future partner to them. Will she be able to stop missing him one day, or will memories of him still be burned into her brain as she’s about to marry someone else? Backed by only a few strumming guitars, the pain in Moroney’s voice makes this song more believable. She recounts being able to survive missing this person every time she sees something that reminds her of him, but she prays that the yearning runs its course before she’s standing at the altar before another person.  This is another standout track on the album for me, even though I haven’t had my heartbroken in a long time. This song speaks to the fears too many of us have lived with, even if we refuse to admit it. We all carry secret memories and mournings for people we were once connected to, even if we’d never go back to them. While we can live with these things quietly most of the time without letting them consume us, Moroney recounts the feeling of being completely haunted by this old flame. It is heartfelt and honest, highlighting the evolution that Moroney has experienced in her songwriting up to this point in her career.  Change of Heart “Change of Heart” is one for anyone who has ever survived and left (then returned, then left again, rinse, repeat) a toxic relationship. While the rollercoaster can be fun at times, it’s not worth the heartache it brings… until it is. Moroney fights with herself and with her on-again, off-again partner, knowing that she may never be truly done with them because each time she swears them off for good, she has “a change of heart.”  The song is more pop-rock than it is true country, but that’s what I love about it. Moroney’s voice is strong enough to match the intensity of the song’s electric guitars, and with a few call-and-response sections designed for a live setting, this song is bound to be a fan-favorite on tour. The lyrics are angry and cathartic, easy to scream in an arena full of girls who have also had their hearts broken.  Bells & Whistles (ft. Kacey Musgraves) Featuring Kacey Musgraves, “Bells & Whistles” is another more traditional-sounding country track that sounds like a bonus track from Musgraves’ sophomore album, Pageant Material. The song describes watching an ex move on with a new woman who is “just like [her] without the bells and the whistles.” This new girl is sweet and uncomplicated, without the added baggage of being in the spotlight and having “a heart on the highway.”  The song is more self-deprecating than it is scathing or jealous, but there is an undertone of self-assuredness at the same time. With lyrics like, “She don’t put on no makeup, and she don’t bleach her hair // She wouldn’t be caught dead in the clothes that I wear,” Moroney knows that her self-expression isn’t for everyone. Yet, she writes, “I’m not me without the bells and the whistles.” Table For Two “Table For Two” continues to follow the back-and-forth dynamic of Moroney’s relationship with this person. In this case, she can’t help but miss him and wonder if they still have a chance to get it right. She daydreams about calling him and getting “a table for two” in a romantic, candle-lit restaurant and hoping that it will fix everything. She knows she shouldn’t, but her heart may win over her head, and if it does, she knows that he will meet her wherever she asks. The instrumentals are wistful and soft, encapsulating the melancholic fantasy of getting back together with an ex.  Wish I Didn’t “Wish I Didn’t” is the third single from Cloud 9  and another well-loved song among fans. In this track, Moroney warns her new love interest against breaking her heart. She has heard “all of the horror stories, the graveyard of girls before [her],” and cautions that should he play games with her as he has with others in the past, she’ll quickly make him regret it. While she’s developing feelings for this person, she’s still keeping her eyes open, “I think I’m falling for ya // Don’t make me wish I didn't.” This song is very reminiscent of Sabrina Carpenter’s hits, “Please, Please, Please,” and “Good Graces,” as Moroney tells her partner, “Roses are red, you’ll be so blue // If I take a chance and find out firsthand that they were right about you.” The track is witty and just the right amount of scathing.  Who Hurt You? “Who Hurt You?” is the aftermath of “Wish I Didn’t,” as Moroney now has to pick up the pieces of the relationship. She fell for her ex’s persona, only to be hurt in the end. Now, she has to wonder what made this person so cold, and how someone could lie so convincingly. This song is for the moments when you’re over the person, but you’re not over how badly they treated you. Even though Moroney would never take him back, she still flashes back to the instances where this person hurt her, and she wonders how things went so wrong. There is a true strength to her vocals that effortlessly embodies the mix of hurt and frustration that arises in such situations.  Waiting On the Rain “Waiting On the Rain” closes the album in stark contrast to how it began. While “Cloud 9” opens the project with Moroney feeling on top of the world in love, this track reminds us that even the best things can come crashing down.  It evokes the same feelings that “Scared of My Guitar” by Olivia Rodrigo brings out every time I listen to it. Moroney explores the guilt of being with someone she knows is not the one, but staying with them anyway. While she cares for this person, she knows that the metaphorical rain is bound arrive and ruin their bout of sunny days.  Being with someone you love, but aren’t sure if you’re in love with, is terrifying and shameful. There is no worse feeling than breaking the heart of someone good at their core, and this track articulates that.  Moroney’s vocals on this track are vulnerable yet strong, backed by a cinematic collection of strings and a gentle guitar, making it an excellent way to bookend the project. Overall, I greatly enjoyed this album, and I know it will be one I put on repeat throughout the year. She has a true knack for writing songs that are relatable, no matter where you’re at in your life. Though all of her songs are written about her own experiences, they’re still easy to put yourself into, whether you’re currently living them out or reminiscing on a time when you were. It has been truly amazing to see how far Moroney has come since I first discovered her music, and this record is a real triumph. Written By Tessa Brainard Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

McKinney layers her confession in dark undercurrent synths, thrumming bass, and the heavy truth in “Guilty.” McKinney’s latest single expresses her survivor’s guilt. She enters a crossover state between hyperawareness and rumination. Self-doubt and shame replace gratitude, and McKinney struggles with these uncontrollable thoughts. Raw moments are stomach-churning as she sings, “Feel my skin it’s tight around my bones/ I’m in my head/ Overthinking everything I’ve ever said.” McKinney’s fear is a rising concern—the world where we base our worth on what we do, and not just the fact that we’re alive. The upbeat tempo and dark mood recreate the contrast between a standing survivor and these weighing thoughts. Mid-80s electronic pop synths and bass that vibrate through the speakers revive a sense of nostalgia—the desire to go back to the way things were. But there’s a twinkle in the production, as if she’s saying, no matter what, you’re worth living. The key to keep going lies in taking the guilt off your chest, singing out the bad feelings, and vibing to the next track. McKinney experiments with different genres per track, but each song embraces sadness. The bass player and singer-songwriter blends the sounds from her BFA in jazz, her blues-singing mother, and her interest in classic rock. Growing up in West Virginia, she lived in a music school. Now, she teaches lessons at LEAF Global Arts. McKinney works shows at the Orange Peel and continues to release sad-pop tracks. Check out the links below to hear more. Written By Taylor Sheridan Lempke FOLLOW MCKINNEY: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Apple Music  | YouTube