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Hunter Hayes’s latest single is a heart-wrenching track about recognizing past mistakes and accepting severe regret. “About a Boy” looks back at a previous relationship where Hayes caused an irrevocable amount of damage to his partner, and the immense feelings of sorrow and regret he is now facing. In hindsight, he would have treated them better, and now he is using this experience to learn from his mistakes. Hayes starts the track with two verses, each painting the scene of his former partner alone in the world. He encourages them to live life to the fullest and meet someone that will make them laugh. Both verses end with him singing alternate variations of the hook: wishing for them to not be “sad about a boy.” After the two initial verses, the remainder of the track contains apologetic lyrics that reveal his deep remorse for his actions. He recognizes that he may not deserve forgiveness, yet he hopes the one he hurt is able to move on and find the happiness they deserve. In the chorus, he conveys this by singing, “There’s a man out there who’ll show you he cares// Ain’t afraid to admit when he’s wrong// He’ll do everything I should’ve done// What I wish I would’ve done// What you deserved all along.” These lyrics demonstrate Hayes taking full responsibility for their relationship ending and reassures his former partner that it was nothing they did. He admits that he did everything wrong, and that they never deserved the pain he put them through. Then, he wraps up the chorus with the meaningful hook, describing this hypothetical new person as, “Someone you can believe in// And never give you a reason to be sad about a boy.” Hayes only has one wish, and it is for their person they hurt to find the happiness he stole from them. The sentiment that they will no longer be sad about a boy, and the manner in which Hayes sings it, is bound the bring tears to the listener’s eyes. It evokes feelings of sorrow and empathy, for both parties. “About a Boy” is an apology to the one he once loved, and he hopes that these words will find them and comfort them. Hunter Hayes effortlessly blends multiple genres in “About a Boy” by taking the emotional storytelling of country music, and the lively production of pop to create a perfectly crafted indie-pop song that instantly captivates listeners. The song kicks off with a muted guitar and keyboard, along with a light bass that follows the guitar in the background. The production adds light synth sounds that provide an airy element to the track. Instead of transitioning into the chorus, Hayes continues to the second verse where the production picks up the drum beat. After the first two verses, the chorus begins, powered by the chords on the keyboard. Additionally, there are chords being played on the guitar with the drums holding the rhythm. When the third verse begins, the song returns to the production found previously, in the second verse. Toward the end of this verse, the production fades to only the drums, pulling emphasis on the transition back into the lively chorus. After the chorus, the bridge maintains the melody led by Hayes’s voice with the production getting softer to pull focus on the lyrics. In the outro, a subtle banjo is added, providing one final unique addition to the track. Before the song closes out, Hayes adds a guitar solo as the production eases to only harmonizing vocals and airy synth notes. The last thing listeners hear are Hayes’s compelling vocals singing, “don’t be sad about a boy” before the song fades away. “About a Boy” showcases Hayes’s extraordinary ability to take simple instruments and blend them together to create a complex production that astonishes listeners. Hunter Hayes is an American singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist. His music has crossed over multiple genres, and he is skilled in more than 30 instruments. In 2011, he released is self-titled debut album which became massively successful. The album peaked at number 7 on the Billboard 200 Chart and number 1 on the Top Country Albums. The album is certified platinum and includes his most-successful single, “Wanted”. He is the youngest male artist to top the Billboard Hot Country Songs. Additionally, he has been nominated for five Grammy Awards including Best New Artist and won the 2012 CMA Award for New Artist of the Year. He has headlined eight times, and toured as the supporting act for prolific artists such as Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, and Lady A. His upcoming album, Red Sky, is set for release on April 21, 2023 and, he will start The Red Sky Tour on May 3rd, 2023. Check out his social media to see if he is coming to a city near you! Written By Karlee Skipper FOLLOW HUNTER:

Relationships: “connecting or binding participants in a relationship, such as a kinship." A specific instance or type of kinship, "a state of affairs existing between those having relations or dealings," are the bonds that hold people close, especially in a romantic relationship. Relationships have many positive aspects, but they also have some negative aspects. Connr’s new single Knives” shows perfect examples of a toxic relationship. Knives is a mix of different genres, including pop and trap. This catchy beat and the soothing vocals, combined with the powerful lyrics, make the impact of the song hit harder. The song is about how CONNR's partner made them feel insignificant and how instead of holding on to positive memories, she can only think about the bad ones he made her feel. “I have every detail sketched inside my brain; I will make you remember my name.” This line can be interpreted as her remembering everything he has done to Illher and not letting him forget what he has done. Overall, I highly recommend this song to anyone who has gone through what CONNR experienced. There is no doubt the time, love, and care in this song can be heard. The mix of knives utilizing the piano with simple progression, synths, and trap pulls this song together wonderfully. The meaning of the lyrics shows and lets you feel the raw emotion CONNR experienced. Her vocals are magnificent, clear, and crisp. The perfect mix of reverb and panning helps give the song some depth. My favorite part of the song is that powerful belt, which shows raw emotion. This is one of my favorite songs that I’ve heard this year, and I'll be listening to it on a loop. CONNR is an artist currently based in Alabama but is originally from Tennessee. She's been writing songs since the age of 14. Her love for music led her to the University of New Orleans. After interning at the World-Renowned Fame Recording Studios in 2017, CONNR really began to discover who she is as an artists. She released her debut single, 'Catastrophe' in 2019. Her debut EP, 'Who Are You', is currently in the works - 'Knives' being the 3rd single to come out of the project. CONNR is an amazing artist who will be taking over any stage she walks on. I highly recommend you check her out on her socials and give her a follow! These memories of this song will always be a banger. Written By ShatteredSoul FOLLOW CONNR:

We all still have a lot to learn in this world. We’re constantly trying to better ourselves each day and find our purpose in life because that’s what we’re meant to do. I always look forward to new days and learning new things about myself that I didn’t know already but that sometimes can get overwhelming, and I can start to stress. It's normal to feel this way because that's how we were built. Tabitha Meeks’ single, “Dark Side” is about finding and accepting yourself for who you are regardless of the bad sides because we all have them. Learning to love and appreciate yourself is the best you can do because who will if you don’t? We’re only human, and we all have our flaws and insecurities to worry about; we just have to accept them. Meeks starts her song, “Dark Side” with a breath-like air fade into a gentle piano melody. The chamber and dreamy pop soundscape tie in together with the energy of her soulful voice. Her vocals are raw and heavily filled with emotion that captivates with the hard-hitting lyrics. Her tone is consistent and calm which enhances the eerie atmosphere of this track. After the chorus, there are additional adlibs to create a haunting vocal harmony; the instrumentation has a harmonize of whispers and echoes that darkens the mood which will give you goosebumps. The tempo picks up after the lines, “I’m finding myself on the dark side” which emphasizes the message of figuring out who you are and coming to terms with it. The percussion based-beat tempo fastens with the haunting vocal harmonies and her constant singing of, “On the dark side” further enhances the haunting experience. Tabitha Meeks is a pianist, vocalist, and songwriter based in Nashville. She came to the city almost three years ago to pursue being an artist. She was trained in classical and jazz piano with her songwriting being a combination of her love for folk and the genres she studied on keys. Her music is often compared to Norah Jones, Randy Newman, and Ingrid Michaelson. She has performed with artists Wayne Burgeron, Charles Kelley of Lady A, Lucie Silvas and a bunch more. Her single, “Dark Side” was featured on Netflix’s Love is Blind Season 4, Episode 8; she wrote this song with LA producer, Viv Parker making it her first sync placement. She released five singles last year which are also great songs that you can relate to or vibe with! Make sure to check out Tabitha Meeks! Written By Lyndsey Cheng FOLLOW TABITHA MEEKS:

girlhouse’s latest single is a vulnerable track about letting go of your anxious thoughts and knowing when a person is no longer worth your time. “you don’t think about me” was written from a complicated period in the singer's life when she had a falling out with someone she once cared for. She let it consume her thoughts as she tried to wrap her head around exactly what went wrong. The verses are spent with her questioning everything they both said, and the intentions of the other person. Then, in the midst of her anxiety and worries, she had an epiphany— the other person was not letting it bother them the way it was bothering her. The song’s hook was derived from this crucial moment. In the chorus she sings, “But you don’t think about me// You don’t think about me// I think it’s better that you don’t// I know you don’t// Don’t think about me.” The repetition of these lyrics represents girlhouse trying to drill into her head that, while she is agonizing about the other person, she is not even a blip on their radar. In the bridge, she wraps up this notion with the lyrics: “The more I keep over-complicating things you said// Is time wasted with made up conversations in my head.” She admits that overthinking about them is only a waste of time and nothing good, or real, will come from it. And that spending all her time trying to rationalize what happened will not change the outcome. This person is taking up space in her mind and it is only making her feel worse. All she can do now is let them go and move on. “you don’t think about me” is a cathartic release for girlhouse and to anyone who may relate to these anxious thoughts. “you don’t think about me” is the perfect blend of infectious pop and alternative rock that is destined to be added to every angsty playlist. The song kicks off with a muted electric guitar and sporadic synth sounds that immediately showcases the individuality of the track. Then, the verse begins with girlhouse’s soothing voice paired with the beat. Throughout the verse, the keyboard synth notes provide a retro vibe to the production. When the chorus starts, the guitar chords open up as the energy of the track picks up and girlhouse shows off her angelic high notes. Then, the song utilizes the same muted guitar found in the intro for the transition into the second verse. In this verse, a guitar is heard playing the melody near the end of each line, providing an emphasis on each candid lyric. The track returns to the chorus and maintains the production in the bridge. After the bridge, the chorus switches to a lighter production where the guitar is playing a riff instead of chords, before exploding back into the full production for the intense outro. The song ends with the production fading out, including the sporadic synth notes found at the beginning, and guitar feedback being the last sound heard. “you don’t think about me” is a phenomenal alternative pop song that showcases girlhouse’s impressive vocals and remarkable songwriting. Lauren Luiz, known better has girlhouse, is an alternative pop singer-songwriter from Portland, Oregon, currently based in Nashville, Tennessee. Prior to starting her music career, she began her successful acting career. After starring in a few shows and experiencing a serious break up, she moved to LA to pursue acting. She hit her big break in a production of Spring Awakening, which led her to perform at the White House. It was while working in LA that she met her bandmate and producer, Tyler Thompson. They formed their band, WILD, which went on to garner massive attention and over 50 million streams. However, Luiz felt drawn to write and release music that truly represents her, thus girlhouse was born. In 2020, she released her debut single, “mt shasta drive”. She released four additional singles before releasing her self-titled debut EP in 2021. She has released two subsequent EPS: the second ep and the third ep. Her upcoming EP follows this unique trend; the fourth ep will be released on May 4, 2023. Written By Karlee Skipper FOLLOW GIRLHOUSE:

What are friends for, if not to tell you the things you don't want (but need) to hear. You'd rather they tell you that your shirt is inside out, instead of having to find out for yourself after everyone has seen it. Nashville singer/songwriter, BIZZY is done dirty on her latest single, "Spinach In My Teeth," as trusted friends retroactively admit their dislike for an ex-boyfriend. BIZZY's catchy, pop songwriting is sharpened by the jagged edges of indie-rock instrumentation and a wicked vocal performance. The jangly guitars call to mind the delightful sourness of Liz Phair, but BIZZY's songwriting and vocal melodies are punchier, more immediate. The opening verse kicks up a cloud of dust with its gritty, lofi drums and lyrical malaise, but "Spinach In My Teeth" swiftly flips into startling clarity. Each instrument is perfectly mixed to optimal contrast; no sound gets lost or diffused. The resulting explorations of shame and embarrassment are transformed by the intensity of indignation. "Five years and a really gross month / is a fucking long time not to tell someone." I highlight this couplet because it perfectly demonstrates the layers to "Spinach In My Teeth." Being in a long-term relationship that ended poorly, BIZZY has intense feelings to begin with. But the real kicker is finding out that her friends (who had always said they loved him) had secretly hated the guy the whole time. Like the title suggests, it's akin to walking through life in complete ignorance of something that everyone else can see. "They said he sucked and he'd never last / God I really wish they would have told me that!" It's the specificity of BIZZY's writing that makes "Spinach In My Teeth" such a memorable pop song. Even those that don't share in this experience can feel its sting. Prior to making her name as a rising star in Nashville pop, BIZZY has established herself in the scene by writing for other artists. Last year, she released a snippet of her song "Anybody" on Tiktok, which garnered tremendous support. After releasing the anthemic single, BIZZY went on to release "Just Yet" in October and "Clean Cut" earlier this year. With viral success, BIZZY has continued to release remarkable singles that establish her as an artist with a strong future ahead. The 24-year-old singer/songwriter has more singles planned to come with the same vulnerability and authenticity prior singles have curated. Written By Andy Mockbee FOLLOW BIZZY:

Sarah von Reis brilliantly encapsulates the feeling of inescapable depression and overall contempt for life with her newest single. “Melancholia High Season” was written during a time when von Reis felt that she should have been happy with how her career and personal life were going, but she still felt despondent and thwarted. The lyrics throughout the track explore this feeling of hopelessness and woe. The song immediately kickstarts with von Reis singing, “I was born in the darkest place on earth// California save me from all this hurt// But canopies are broken// And the winds have spoken.” She describes how she desired to move from her hometown to Los Angeles hoping that her dreams of pursuing music would heal this darkness born inside her. However, regardless of the prolific music industry professionals she befriended and the high glamour life she tasted, she still felt broken. She felt that her experience was fake and that it was not what she had once dreamt it would be. In the chorus, she sings, “Melancholia High Season// Total sadness for no reason// Melancholia High Season// Total sadness for no reason// Happy, Happy, I don’t feel happy// Happy, Happy, Everyone’s so happy but me.” These lyrics are a cry for help; her reaching out to anyone who will listen to tell them that her joy is only for show, and that deep down, she is dying inside. In the bridge, the song reaches the emotional climax of the track with the lines: “Live my life in retrograde// Dye my hair in every shade// Tried to fit inside the frame// But Sunset’s driving me insane.” von Reis makes it clear that she has done everything she can to fit the mold of what Hollywood is trying to make her be. But while she is trying to conform, the city is slowy chipping away at her sanity. She is losing more and more of herself, and slipping into this dark depression she cannot seem to break free from. The profound message von Reis sings throughout the track is relatable for not only listeners in the music industry, but even those who are struggling to find happiness in their own career. What once used to be their biggest dream, now causes them their deepest depression. However, von Reis was able to overcome this dark part in her life, and audiences that listen to the song and see how far she has come are reassured that one day they will break through their depression, as well. “Melancholia High Season” is a moody pop song that consists of a soothing, yet infectious melody that effortlessly guides the listener through vulnerable lyrics. The track begins with von Reis singing the first verse acapella. This distinctive introduction immediately grabs the audience’s attention while setting the somber tone. Then, the pre-chorus kicks off the production with the bass and the drumbeat, paired with haunting vocal harmonies in the background. At the end of the verse, the music is muted while von Reis sings, “Everyone’s a liar,” before the chorus picks up with the full production. In the background, von Reis continues to harmonize with herself, further enhancing the eerie atmosphere of the track. Toward the end of the chorus, synth sound effects are added to provide an additional dynamic to the song. The production maintains this structure through the second verse and chorus, with a unique flair on the bridge. The tempo picks up with von Reis matching the speed with her sweet falsettos, pulling emphasis on the climax of the track. Then, she uses her lower register for the end of the bridge, repeating the hook: “High season, Total sadness for no reason,” before transitioning back into the emotional final chorus. Additionally, a key component of the track are the lyrics: “Everyone’s so happy but me.” In the corresponding music video, von Reis perfectly captures this concept with the unsettling imagery. She is seen throughout the video sitting on a bench in a nearly empty theater, wearing an unusual all-white outfit. In front of her, a video montage of happy, smiling strangers are being projected onto a screen. Behind her, a man in a white lab coat, presumed to be a “doctor,” is holding her eyes open, forcing her to watch the carefree people. This is meant to symbolize that everyone around her is full of joy, while she is deeply depressed. In real life, she is forced to take in their happiness and even mask her own depression. The visuals are inherently brilliant, showing that von Reis is not only an impressive songwriter, but also an outstanding visionary. Sarah von Reis is a singer-songwriter from Gothenberg, Sweden. She began her musical journey at a young age when she joined a local youth choir at twelve-years-old. In high school, she studied music, focusing primarily on jazz, pop, and rock. In 2016, she was signed to Universal Music Sweden as a member of the pop group, Dolly Style, who she also wrote songs for. After years of touring and appearances on television, she split from the group in 2018 to venture on her own. She spent the following year writing and honing in on her sound, before releasing her debut solo single in 2020, entitled “Anti-Gravity (No One’s Daughter).” Since then, she has released three more singles that quickly became fan favorites. Recently, on March 31st, 2023, von Reis released her debut EP, Melancholia High Season. The EP features two previously released singles, the title track, and one brand new release. Her music is strongly influenced by “the melodic language of Swedish jazz, the indie pop from her teenage years and a great passion for telling stories.” Her artistry is often described as somewhere between Fiona Apple and Billie Eilish, which captures her unique, ethereal style. Written By Karlee Skipper FOLLOW SARAH:

We all deserve a sense of empowerment in our own lives. Having that superiority over ourselves is something we should all have, and we shouldn’t let anyone take it from us. We are determined to be who we aspire to be and having that is wonderful. No one can tell us otherwise because we are in control of our lives. The world can be cruel sometimes but ignoring all that negativity can bring us some sort of peace. The Scarlet Opera’s single, “Riot” is a catchy bop about that confidence in yourself and ignoring people's opinions of us. We should be able to do whatever we want and feel at that moment regardless of what anyone thinks. If it makes us happy, then so be it. Bazulka starts the song with his powerful vocals that draws you in immediately tied with a classic pop rock soundscape. The clearness in his voice gravitates with the melody, giving it a smooth groove. He pairs his vocals with enthusiasm which brings an energetic mood that enhances with the tune. The consistency in his voice creates a sensation that assists the tempo which brings an enjoyable listen. The message of the song has a sense of empowerment that is strong enough to start a riot - hence the title - which captivates the energy perfectly. Along with Kenrick on the keyboard, Zuker on the bass, Siegal on the drums, and Taylor on the guitar, The Scarlet Opera has put together an outstanding performance with this hit rock n roll song. The Scarlet Opera is a five-member band from Los Angeles. The band consists of the members, lyricist and front man Luka Bazulka, keyboardist Colin Kenrick, bassist Daniel Zuker, drummer Justin Siegal, and guitarist Chance Taylor. The band origins from Kenrick seeing Bazulka performing a solo vocal set then leading to enlist the other members. They had great potential to forming this band. SB Projects and Republic Records were drawn by their packed venues and captivating live shows that hit songwriter and producer David Stewart to collab and inspire them. The band made their debut on “The Late Late Show” with James Corden and performed their song, “Alive.” They are currently on tour, and you can get your tickets here if you’re interested! Their EP “Comedy” is out now so go check them out! Written By Lyndsey Cheng FOLLOW THE SCARLET OPERA:

A loss of hope and confidence can lead to feeling trapped in a castle of your broken dreams. Lilla Shy’s new single, “To Do List” is an emotional pop ballad detailing the familiar feelings of frustration and stagnation. The track communicates a narrative of feeling tied down by wasted time and opportunities. Finding your purpose or passion in life can seem impossible when overcome with regret and being met with constant misunderstanding. Lilla Shy’s meaningful lyricism conveys themes of isolation and self-doubt with lines such as, “I’ve got muscles, but not enough strength to move” and “I’ve got vision, but it’s weaker than my gift”. Lilla’s touching lyrics pair perfectly with her angelic vocals that add emotional depth and abundant dimension to the track. Heart wrenching instrumentation, beautiful vocals and eloquent lyricism make “To Do List” a sentimental anthem about longing for the innocence and joy of youth, in efforts to avoid confrontation with a disillusioned and disappointing reality. Lilla Shy’s new single, “To Do List” is a moving piece of art that utilizes instrumentation as a tool to create different tempos, rhythms, melodies and harmonies to alter the mood and tone of the song. The piano plays a prominent role in the track, starting with a simple cord progression that repeats throughout the verses and choruses, creating a sense of stability. Throughout the single, there are added embellishments and variations to the chords, such as arpeggios, inversions, and passing notes, that make the song more interesting and expressive. Lilla Shy’s lyrics use plentiful metaphors and imagery to express her inner feelings and thoughts. For instance, she sings that she left herself on a shelf, implying that she neglected or abandoned her true self. She also says that she is blind and deaf, suggesting that she is ignoring or avoiding reality. However, Lilla Shy’s unique voice is perhaps the most spectacular element of “To Do List”. Her ability to hit and hold impressive high-notes and the use of vocal layering to create hypnotizing harmonies truly set her apart as a talented singer. London based, Italian raised, Lilla Shy is a singer-songwriter and producer whose solo pop career has grown exponentially since its conception in July of 2022. She began her ghost-writing journey in 2017 with releases on labels such as, Warner, Sony and Hexagon. Her debut single, “Shymode” has accumulated over 5.2k streams on Spotify alone. Since then, she has created numerous hits such as, “Don’t Go”, “Party on My Own” and “Your Name on It” which garnered an astounding 74.9k streams on Spotify. Lilla Shy has released three high-production music videos for her singles, “Idealise”, “POMO” and “Shymode”. Her audience has expanded greatly over the past few years, with currently over 19.8k monthly listeners on Spotify alone. Lilla can be discovered on numerous highly followed Spotify editorial playlists such as, “EQUAL Italia”, “Pov: la tua vita è un film", “Novità Pop", “New Music Friday Italia” and “Operazione Buonumore!” which has over 324k likes alone. Her solo career has gained tremendous radio support from BBC Introducing in the UK and Amazing Radio in the US. Lilla Shy’s official website showcases her songs, music videos, upcoming gigs and events and a blog where she shares her inner thoughts, speaking on topics such as the songwriting process, self-love, loneliness, growth and gives advice to readers. On March 24th, Lilla Shy released her first EP, “Stuck in Shymode (Bedroom Sessions)” which features six songs, five acoustic renditions of her previously released tracks and one brand-new single, “To Do List”. Luckily for fans, Lilla Shy is performing live on April 23rd at The Camden Eye in London. Written By Julia Hooper FOLLOW LILLA SHY:

Photo Credits: Stocksy Content Warning: If you have experienced sexual assault, the following article could be potentially triggering. You can contact the National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline at 1-800-656-4673. Music is therapeutic. It can heal us when we feel broken and when we are at our lowest points. It’s a powerful force capable of influencing our emotions. Music can make us feel happy even when we feel sad. It can make us want to dance even when we don’t want to, moving the immovable. Music can make us want to sing along, belting out our favorite tunes and giving us a voice when we feel voiceless. But most importantly, music can inspire hope when it feels like there is none. As April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, it feels more pertinent than ever to share a list of songs that inspire hope and healing. The healing process after a sexual assault is a complex journey and is different for every individual experiencing it. While music cannot "cure" the pain from a traumatic event, it can still be a comfort in recovery. Without further ado, here are 10 songs to help survivors find hope. 10. "Scars To Your Beautiful" - Alessia Cara Alessia Cara's "Scars To Your Beautiful" fuels a culture of self-love. The track is full of lyrics that let listeners know they are beautiful the way they are. Cara's voice is powerful and gorgeous as it soars over anthemic beats. She delivers lines like "But there's a hope that's waiting for you in the dark/You should know you're beautiful just the way you are," showing listeners that they can love themselves. As a survivor, it can be hard to feel self-love, but Alessia Cara provides hope and reminds us that everyone is beautiful and worthy of self-love. 9. "Shake It Out" - Florence and the Machine An epic energy radiates off "Shake It Out" by Florence and the Machine. This song sends a positive message about letting go of your troubles, shaking them out for a new beginning. Florence Welch's mystical, commanding voice soars powerfully over a massive, organ-laden soundscape. "Shake It Out" features pounding, adrenaline-inducing drums, giving a great backdrop to dance along to. Lyrically, the song conjures images of literally shaking devils off your back, dancing your woes away. 8. "Warrior" - Demi Lovato Demi Lovato delivers an emotionally charged ballad with "Warrior." The song features a minimalistic arrangement, comprised of cello, piano, and Lovato's expressive voice. She captivates listeners as she transitions from singing delicate verses to belting fierce choruses. Lyrically, Lovato expresses her experiences with hardship and coming out on the other side stronger, rising from the ashes like a phoenix. "Warrior" is an inspirational track, focusing on inner-strength. 7. "Brave" - Josh Groban Josh Groban is usually an acquired taste, but "Brave" is full of uplifting melodies that are bound to linger in your mind for a while. The track has a cinematic quality to it with Groban's huge vocals being supported by a lively orchestra and chorus. Lyrically, the song conveys a positive message. Groban encourages listeners to be brave facing the day, no matter what it brings. "Brave" inspires listeners to smile through fear and to be strong. 6. "Girl (Acoustic)" - SYML "Girl" by SYML gives an honest, emotional look at life. Opposed to other songs on this list, this track is more laid-back and is relaxing to listen to. The track features acoustic guitar and Brian Fennell's mellow vocals. "Girl" was originally written for Fennell's daughter, but it features a positive message many can resonate with. It conveys a message of loving yourself and finding positives in every experience. "Girl" gives hopes to anyone going through tough times or who have gone through something difficult. 5. "F**kin' Perfect" - P!nk This song is a self-esteem anthem. It features P!nk's powerful vocals, belting out a message that no one should ever feel less than perfect. The song features edgy guitar licks, buoyant pop beats, and P!nk's distinctive, raspy voice. "F**ckin' Perfect" is a power ballad full of optimistic energy. No matter what you're going through, this song provides an important reminder that everyone is perfect as they are. 4. "Praying" - Kesha Kesha tugs at our heartstrings with "Praying." She begins the song with vulnerable vocals over piano chords, later building in intensity. Towards the end of the song, she lets loose into a massive sound, belting over a chorus and orchestra. Kesha reflects on her experiences with sexual abuse and faces her abuser in "Praying." An emotionally charged ballad, "Praying" conveys a message of empowerment, forgiveness, and resilience. 3. "Til It Happens To You" - Lady Gaga Lady Gaga delivers a vulnerable and empowering track with "Til It Happens To You." The song was written for the documentary, The Hunting Ground, which focuses on sexual assault on college campuses. "Til It Happens To You" starts soft and exposed, building in intensity to feel more defiant. This song is more of a cathartic listen, expressing the frustration that comes with people viewing support as synonymous with understanding. It also reminds us of the reality millions of survivors face on a daily basis and gives a feeling of solidarity. The video that accompanies "Til It Happens To You" contains imagery that may be sensitive to some viewers. If you want to listen to the song but not see the video, here's a link to Spotify. 2. "Forest" - Twenty One Pilots One of the lighter songs on this list, "Forest" by Twenty One Pilots is an upbeat anthem that'll put you in a fantastic mood. The track is full of catchy melodies and infectious pop beats, creating something anyone can dance and feel good listening to. "Forest" features a message about healing through music and community. The song tackles emotions like feeling out of control when life doesn't go according to plan and being terrified of what's around the corner. "Forest" conquers those fears and anxieties with cheerful melodies and a positive, uplifting chorus. 1. "I Believe You" - FLETCHER "I Believe You" is FLETCHER's response to the #MeToo movement. Through this song, FLETCHER delivers a passionate open letter to survivors, letting everyone know that she's listening and cares. This song is her way of telling survivors their feelings are valid, and they're not alone. "I Believe You" begins with FLETCHER's voice floating over contemplative piano chords, later building to booming pop beats that support impassioned vocals. It's a beautiful tribute to survivors, addressing some of the many issues survivors face such as trauma, mental illness, and not being believed. What do you think of this list? Were there any songs we missed? Follow us on our socials below, and let us know what you think! Written By Cheyenne Johnson Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

Dark and eerie music meets fist-pumping electronic beats with successful producer Henri Werner’s music. His newest single “Itty Bitty” features singer EHLE on the track to add an especially ghostly touch to the song; a vague warning about someone who does not have your best intentions. Gaining a lot of popularity with Gen Z and the gamer crowds, Henri Werner can most definitely be considered a producer on the rise. His own Spotify playlist titled “Future Music” has been gaining traction for a lot of dark vibes, melodies, and fresh voices that are comparable to EHLE’s feature on “Itty Bitty.” A fan of darker music myself, I was very excited to dive into this song! The song begins with an eerie rhythmic chiming with EHLE’s voice cueing us into the beat. With the first verse, we hear EHLE’s voice on top of the pop EDM-esque instrumentals in the background. Henri’s talent for producing music really shines through, as this song emulates everything that is in the darker pop genre. All of the music surrounding EHLE’s vocals sticks to the tone set by the lyrics with absolute perfection. You can hear the spider metaphor not only in her words but through the web weaved by Henri’s composition of the song. The chorus features even more dark-esque tunes as EHLE warns the listener to always keep one eye open because this girl (the subject of the song) might just come for you when you aren’t looking. Henri Werner is twenty-four years old and originally from Germany. He is a very talented composer and producer of electronic music and has seen a lot of success in his field. Already, he has surpassed seven million streams on Spotify and twenty million views on Youtube. The song that first blew up is titled “Imposter” and it was recognized on Youtube for its “haunting and eerie soundscapes.” Henri keeps this theme going in his latest song “Itty Bitty” as he continues to create dark music that pushes the bounds of the pop genre. We at Pop Passion are excited for Henri to release even more music and to watch his career continue to grow. Written By Molly Schiff FOLLOW HENRI:

In the court of public opinion, there’s characters from different stories, shows, and movies that should have been more than friends. Despite how popular the friends-to-lovers trope is, some couples are just never written into existence. But it especially hurts to see one half of this non-existent couple left in a perpetual state of yearning to be more. Unrequited love is a shame to witness but devastating to experience. Isabel LaRosa provides the unrequited lover's perspective with a twist in her latest single, “more than friends”. Through “more than friends”, LaRosa illustrates the vexations of being within a friendship that you wish to transform into a romance. The dark-pop single utilizes moody synths to emphasize the longing that’s being experienced by the unrequited lover, while LaRosa’s breathy vocals demonstrate this longing's emotional and physical nature. The song opens with slow and sultry verses that build to an all-consuming, powerful chorus. In the music video written, directed, and starred in by LaRosa, watching audiences see her sneak out of the home to meet up with her friend. As the two get into trouble, LaRosa begins to feel closer to this friend. These transpiring events only feed our artist’s longing to be more than a friend to her fellow troublemaker – something watchers witness, and listeners hear during the single’s progression towards the chorus. When the chorus finally drops, LaRosa blows us away with the intensity and gravity of her longing. It makes you ache for the relationship’s transformation right alongside her. A flash of hope appears, though: the friend sneaks back into the home with her and confirms that the emotions she’s been experiencing are mutual with steamy kisses. But this hope is short-lived and stolen from the two, and subsequently, the audiences rooting for them. The music video ends with police sirens and lights seen right outside of LaRosa’s bedroom window to presumably pick them up after their night of mischief. Potentially leaving them to a fate worse than unrequited love – love from a distance. Isabel LaRosa is a singer and songwriter with roots in Annapolis, MD. The artist’s upbringing was filled with nights in jazz clubs where she’d watch her father’s soothing saxophone and her brother’s inspiring guitar playing move listeners. Influenced by her environment, she began writing songs in elementary school with her brother which led them to become a dynamic duo. Now nearing the end of her high school career, the artist produces music on top of writing it with her brother (and fellow producer), Thomas. LaRosa currently sits pretty at the top of pop-stardom; still reveling in the success of her 2022 EP, i'm watching you, and the 200+ million streamed single "i'm yours". Even with all this excitement, she's gracious enough to spoil listeners with her newly released EP, YOU FEAR THE GOD THAT LOVES YOU, that centers on the experiences of a girl growing up under a religious household. It also features the atmospherically stunning "more than friends". If you've enjoyed Isabel LaRosa's yearning to be more than platonic, show her some virtual love in the form of streams, likes, and follows. Written by Giavanna Gradaille FOLLOW ISABEL LAROSA:

Conor Maynard releases a deeply personal, new single entitled, “By Your Side,” about the indescribable sensation of fighting for a relationship that’s falling apart and coming to an end with no reset button in sight. There comes a time in a strenuous relationship where you know it’s over in your head, but your heart can’t seem to get the memo. You know they’re no longer the best fit for you, but they’ve been the missing puzzle piece to complete you for so long, and you don’t even really remember what life was like before they waltzed in and stole your heart. Some people are too important to become just a memory. You think of the story you’ll tell your kids about how you met instead of the cautionary tale of who broke your heart. Love can be a rollercoaster with ups, down, twists, turns, and never-ending loops, but rides can be enjoyable and addicting, and there’s a reason people wait in line to do them over and over again. Sometimes love can feel like you’re drowning, and you don’t know which way is up or which way is down, but you’d rather hold your breath for eternity underwater than take a gasping breath of fresh air with anyone else. Ending a relationship means giving up your hopes and dreams for the future, and nobody wants to start new when your heart is still in the thick of it, so you continue on, you swear up and down you’ll do better, but you know deep inside that you’re driving a freight train full speed into a brick wall, but for just a moment, you close your eyes, hold their hand, and enjoy the ride with them by your side. “By Your Side” is the second release of Maynard’s series of singles inspired by the arduous breakup he went through in the winter of ’22. The dark and cold nights synonymous with a freshly broken heart. This gut-wrenching tale of grappling with a relationship that is too far gone to be repaired, but you’re in too deep to extricate yourself, is one that is all too relatable, no matter the circumstances that surround it. “By Your Side” is Maynard’s heartfelt message to his loyal fans who continued to reach out and check in on him in the wake of his heartbreak and sudden disappearance from social media, as he took the much needed time for self-love, self-reflection, and a safe, quiet place to heal. He left the lyrics open for interpretation to deal with any disintegration of a relationship, because love is not the only connection that can break your heart or feel impossible to walk away from. Although his passion and raw-talent are reminiscent of all his music, sonically this song is vastly unique to his arsenal of work, and he drew inspiration from artists like the 1975 and The Weeknd who leave it all on the track. Although the instrumentals are quite upbeat, the lyrics draw you in to those nights spent on your bathroom floor amidst your very first heartbreak. Conor collaborated with one of his closest friends on this track, writing and scrapping more than 50 songs before finding the exemplary balance to translate the excruciating story in a way that felt the most authentic to him. “By Your Side” is just the beginning of Maynard’s new era of creativity and collection of heartbreak and healing. Conor Maynard is a 30-year-old powerhouse singer/songwriter from Brighton, England. A constant pioneer in his field, Conor was one of the first home-grown talents to transition from Youtube to Pop stardom touring around the world. He has never been afraid to experiment or explore new grounds of the industry, and he is constantly reaching new audiences during his career, but he has never, nor will ever, compromise what speaks to him as an artist. Maynard’s debut album, Contrast, secured a longstanding number one spot in the UK charts and five UK top ten singles. What followed was devoted fans and international recognition with world tours, awards, and iconic collaborations. Ever ambitious, Conor even starred in Broadway’s Kinky Boots to premiere one more side to his multi-faceted aptitude as an artist and performer. In March 2020, Conor decided to step out on his own as an independent artist, having spent a decade signed to a major label and achieving global success, and he continues to stay true to himself and take the world by storm. One week after he decided to step out on his own, the UK went into lockdown, and while this might’ve deterred many artists or given them a free-pass to take a pause, Maynard worked harder than ever and took his career to unchartered heights, and in just one year, he accumulated over 300 million streams across Spotify and Apple Music, without any major label backing. He has now garnered over 2.5 billion views on YouTube, 2 billion streams on Spotify, and has quickly become one of the most followed artists on TikTok in the UK. Maynard has come full circle as he takes full control of his career from his home studio, and instead of getting discovered as a young kid, he now has discovered exactly who he is and exactly where he wants to go with his decade-long success and complete creative freedom!! Written By Grace Chapman FOLLOW CONOR MAYNARD: