Two of my favorite pop artists right now are Gracie Abrams and Maisie Peters. Their vulnerable lyrics and soft vocals have created some of my favorite tracks; I am always excited to see what they do next. Here, as I began "Heavy, Heavy, Heavy," Ashley Elle's song reminded me of both Abrams and Peters. The honest words, emotional voice, and easy-to-listen-to music felt inspired by some of my favorite songs out there. Ashley Elle tackles anxiety and depression in such a beautiful way that I was captured from the first note of the song. This track came out at a time when she was faced with immense pressure and responsibility, and with each lyric, she takes us through these very real and relatable emotions. If you are looking for an indie pop artist, Ashley Elle is one to watch. Ashley Elle starts off her track by asking "Do you know this feeling / That I've been feeling / Oh I don't know how to describe it." She sings that it is like floating outside your body; it is having a "Heavy mind / Heavy heart / Heavy body." She opens up with the reflection in the chorus "I didn't know that someone so young / Could hold the weight of expired lungs." It reminded me of the deeply vulnerable song "Block Me Out" by Gracie Abrams. Anxiety is a tough feeling to describe; it is so much pressure, and as Elle continuously describes, heavy. This track is about struggling through life; it is about going through these trials and tribulations with so many feelings of anxiety. Just trying to grow up and face challenges. This is a feeling we can all relate to, and through vivid lyricism and gentle vocals, Ashley Elle lets us all feel seen. It is a beautiful, honest song. Hailing from a small town in Wisconsin, Ashley Elle is a Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter and student at Loyola Marymount University. She was granted a publishing deal in 2019 by Given Entertainment. Her music aims to explore vulnerability and resonate with her audience. In her latest single, "Heavy, Heavy, Heavy," we see this in the depth of her lyrics; she wears her heart on her sleeve, opening up about the weight of life's complexities. My favorite part of music is feeling connected to the artist and their lyrics. When a song feels like it could be written about my life. Ashley Elle does this so effortlessly in her music, and I cannot wait to listen to her future releases. Written By Sydney Gray FOLLOW ASHLEY ELLE:

"Better Left Unsaid" is 80s nostalgia pop with contemporary singer/songwriter sensibilities. The collaboration between bassist and songwriter George Crump and singer Kathy Foster is a whirlwind of affection, yearning, and insecurity. There's kinetic energy in the production: driving synth bass, 80s drum machine, and a full-bodied chorus. However, Kathy Foster's vocal performance tints each surface blue. The airy softness of her voice is reminiscent of dream pop, bringing out the haziness of the synths. What ties together this push and pull is the cinematic vibe, glowing with mood and atmosphere. The result is a gorgeous, unabashedly queer pop song documenting the internal struggles pressuring a relationship. Through it all, the starry-eyed affection resonates most powerfully. "We got married in a chapel, right then and there," Foster says through a smile, "in my brain." There's a melancholic contrast between the hopeful affection and guilt-ridden doubt. "I remember laying in our bed, asking you what we'd do next." You can feel the thrill of potential and intimacy, but the internal feelings of unease. Foster's vocal performance twists lines of yearning ("I want nothing more than to hold you in the pouring rain,") into somber regrets. "Some things are better left unsaid," she insists. In a world stuck between honeymoon and collapse, it's a call to embrace the certain feelings. "Better Left Unsaid" is George Crump's first official single. The UK-based artist considers themself to be "a bassist who occasionally writes songs." They've previously toured with other bands and collaborated as a bassist. "Better Left Unsaid" arrives with a beautifully shot music video, edited and directed by Tiara Westlake. Both Crump and Foster appear in the video, performing side-by-side. Their single is described as the journey of navigating relationship-OCD. Crump posts updates - such as in-studio selfies, releases, and covers - on their instagram. "Better Left Unsaid" is an excellent pride month single with 80s pop flair. Written By Andy Mockbee FOLLOW George Grump:

Tinsley’s latest single is the perfect indie-pop ballad for the hopeless romantic. “Classic” is about wanting to find love that will last in the modern era of “endless swiping.” She is tired of trying to find love in a world where being replaced is as easy as swiping right on a dating app. “Classic” is about fighting for a forever love and hoping her partner feels the same way about her. In a world where the newer, shinier things are put on a pedestal, she wants her partner to look at her and say, “you’re classic.” She wants to be someone who is irreplaceable—like a classic car or vintage clothing. They do not make things like they used to, and she wants to be made to last. Tinsley kicks off the song with the ingeniously poetic line: “I don’t want to be a casualty of novelty.” This line completely catches the listener by surprise by introducing them to Tinsley’s outstanding lyricism. She immediately shows the audience that she is not a simple songwriter, but a natural-born poet who has turned their writing into an unforgettable art. The entire track is filled with similarly clever lyrics that are guaranteed to blow the minds of the listeners. In the pre-chorus, Tinsley sings, “Oh, I hope that I’m a place you never tire of returning to// I know, I know I’ll always keep this candle burning for you.” These two lines are a sweet sentiment to her partner—reassuring them that she will always be there to welcome them home. As long as she is a safe space for them, she will forever hold on to their relationship. She wants her partner to reciprocate this feeling. In the chorus, she emphasizes this notion with the lyrics: “Tell me if there’s love// Maybe its magic// Cause all I ever needed// You’re all I ever// Tell me I’m your classic.” With the clever hook, she implores her partner to love her in the way she deserves. “Classic” flawlessly encapsulates the frustrating feeling of trying to find the one in the modern world while simultaneously being the perfect summertime love song. “Classic” is a flawlessly crafted indie-pop song that perfectly encapsulates the candid lyrics through an unforgettable production. The track immediately begins with a bass-heavy drumline before Tinsley’s compelling vocals kick off the first verse. For the first two lines, the production maintains the drumline with only simple guitar chords and keyboard notes in the background. After these lines, the guitar melody picks up and the keyboard acts as the bass that continues through the entire track. In the second half of the chorus, another keyboard is added and the guitar becomes more prominent as the chords turn to arpeggios. Through the verse and the pre-chorus, the production gradually builds towards the infectious chorus and the reveal of the hook. The chorus starts with only a beat and the keyboard for the first half before introducing the guitar in the second half. At the end of the chorus while Tinsley repeats the line: “Tell me I’m your classic,” synth-heavy vocal effects echo back the word “classic.” This provides a unique dynamic to the track that emphasizes the clever hook. Throughout the song, the production maintains a consistent sound within the verses and choruses, along with a catchy guitar solo between the second pre-chorus and the final chorus. The track ends with the production fading and the final lyric, “classic,” closing out the track. “Classic” is a very well-rounded, dynamic track with a production that is reminiscent of artists that influence Tinsley, such as Taylor Swift, Holly Humberstone, and Maggie Rogers, while making the song completely her own and showcasing her phenomenal talent. Tinsley is an indie-pop singer-songwriter from Seattle, Washington. Prior to releasing music, she spent her time performing locally in small, acoustic settings and sharing her original songs on YouTube and Instagram. Then in 2017, she caught the attention of producer and electronic artist, Jake Crocker. He reached out to her via Instagram and their collaborative relationship began. In 2018, she released her first single, “In Bloom,” with Crocker. Then in 2020, she released her debut self-titled album, which was produced by Crocker. Her sophomore EP, Love Songs, is set for release on August 23, 2023. Throughout her career, Tinsley has accomplished many impressive feats, such as working with prominent producers, including Justin Hartinger and Joza. Additionally, her songs have received strong radio support and press coverage from notable tastemakers. Most recently, she headlined the Neumos Music Venue in Seattle for the Capitol Hill Block Party 2022. Tinsley music touches the hearts of listeners through her use of honest lyrics and unforgettable melodies, making her one of the next rising stars to watch! Written By Karlee Skipper FOLLOW TINSLEY:

Heartbreak is a difficult thing to go through. This is true for both romantic and platonic bonds. In the song “It Started With U”, musical artist Ava Della Pietra reflects on a lost relationship, the pain that follows, and how she was able to reflect and come out a stronger person because of it. According to Ava, she was inspired to write the song after being shut out by someone she considered a close friend. When asked about the meaning behind the song, Ava commented, “It’s about recognizing the huge impact this person had on my life, while also realizing that I have the power to take that negativity and turn it around, so I can come out of the experience stronger than ever.” Taking the lyrics into account, you can really start to tell when the healing process begins. She goes from singing how “It started with you”, to closing off by saying “Now it ends with you,” signifying that she would no longer let this heartbreak take hold of her life. This song is simply beautiful to listen to. Ava, on more than one occasion, manages to seamlessly transition from her chest voice to her head voice. I would have to argue that the two strongest instrumentals are the drums and the piano. It really helped to create an easy-to-follow beat, where viewers could really focus their attention on the meaning behind the lyrics. However, the real kicker for this song is Ava’s voice. With her background in music and performance, it’s easy to tell that she has years of experience under her belt. You can so easily hear the pain and heartbreak in her voice. It’s obvious that the loss of this relationship hit her hard, and I truly do feel she was able to project that while simultaneously displaying how she grew as a person from the event. As I mentioned before, Ava Della Pietra has been in the industry for a few years… since she was four years old, in fact! At the age of six, Ava starred as Young Cosette in the 25th Anniversary National touring production of Les Miserables . Ava soon after starred in a two-year run as a member of the original cast for School of Rock on Broadway. Eventually, she began writing and releasing her own music. Currently, Ava has written over 130 songs, 32 of which she wrote while quarantining with her family during the COVID-19 pandemic. “It Started With U” was produced by Will Hicks, who has worked with other artists such as Ed Sheeran and Beyoncé. In addition to working with Hicks, Ava is also collaborating with Jon Levine, Steven Martinez, and Adrian Gurvitz. Ava is nearly 18 years old, and given how much she has already accomplished in her career, it’s easy to assume she’s bound to soar higher. I for one can’t wait to see where she goes. Written By Isabel Mays FOLLOW AVA DELLA PIETRA:

Happy Pride Month everyone! While I’m not one for the heat, I certainly am one to celebrate the global impact the LGBTQIA+ community has made. But most importantly, to recognize how far we’ve come from the Stonewall riots that were kicked off by Marsha P. Johnson. We've gone from dreaming of a place of acceptance and tranquility alongside Judy Garland in “Somewhere Over the Rainbow”, to creating and fostering spaces that exceeded the expectations of this fantasy – it’s a cherished sight behold. And I figured the best way to show our deepest gratitude here at the blog is by celebrating songs we cannot get enough of from queer artists and bands in this post I've affectionately titled, Somewhere Over the Radio. The criteria I followed to compile my list: the artist or (some) members of the band belong and/or identify with the queer community, the song was released or remastered between 2022 and now, and of course - the song must fall under the pop genre, or a pop subgenre. Now let’s get on to the appreciating part of this post. 10. "Forgive + Forget" - Lord Troy “Forgive + Forget” by Lord Troy is an empowering revenge-pop single and a stark reminder that forgiveness is for you – not the person seeking it out. Through gorgeous, lower registered baritone vocals a clear picture is painted for listeners: some people just don’t deserve our forgiveness nor the luxury of their actions being forgotten. Especially if they’re committed to “flipping the script” to avoid taking accountability. While we can never force people like Lord Troy’s muse to accept the devastation their actions brought, we can at least show off how it hasn’t held us back from achieving our dreams and goals. And it also doesn't hurt that this happens to be the best form of revenge, too. On top of dazzling listeners with bops, gay and plus-size icon Lord Troy is also the co-founder of PÄRDĒ, a vegan and cruelty free line of nail polish that features show-stopping colors. 9. "Holy Place" - Anya Gupta "Holy Place" by Anya Gupta is a soft pop anthem for lovers that cannot get enough of their partners. The sweet single’s gentle guitar plucking ramps up with excitement as it builds towards the chorus, invoking listeners with the same zeal Gupta is expressing. But what I love the most is the reoccurring metaphor and analogy that are utilized throughout the song. In the opening lines the analogy is first heard: “Your body’s a temple / Your bedroom’s a holy place”, and it's made very clear that there’s worshipping of the other kind occurring. Meanwhile the metaphor lies in the chorus: “Your body is my holy place”, transforming the previous sexual nature into one of security and safety. Other guitar driven singles to check out from the independent Boston-based artist are "jackie" and 2022's "Hate to be Honest". 8. "crush!" - Lauren Sanderson "crush!" by Lauren Sanderson is an alt-pop single that’s perfect to hard launch to. For those in the unknown, hard launching is when a relationship is explicitly announced by one or all the partners involved. The song’s easygoing melody featuring expressive and imagery filled lyrics are bound to convince any listener to flaunt their relationship off for the world see. The dating streets are rough, and often times makes people hopeless to find love. So, when we find someone that makes us as giddy as Sanderson's muse, it's no wonder why we're so excited to show off how happy they make us. Sanderson is an independent lesbian artist that just began their summer tour; beginning with performances in the U.K., followed by the E.U., before rounding back to the U.S. and Canada. Dates and tickets for various performance locations can be found here. 7. "DISCO SLEAZE" - Michael Medrano "DISCO SLEAZE" by Michael Medrano is a nudisco pop single that inspires listeners to dance the night away with friends and hot strangers. With a swanky sound that comes walking straight out of the late 70s, it’ll leave you wanting to “put it down” on anyone wearing bright floral patterns. Medrano’s vocal delivery slips between high notes and spoken word to keep listeners transfixed throughout the song’s duration. This is the bop you play at parties and clubs when you’re looking to have spicy interactions and encounters. It captures the endless joy we should be experiencing when going out with the intention of having a good time. Medrano is the self-proclaimed Disco Dad and based in Los Angeles. Other funky singles to check out from the artist are “Do Your Thing, Babe!” and “NAKED”. All three songs come directly from Medrano's recent album, LoveSexDrugs. 6. "I've Loved You For So Long" - The Aces "I've Loved You For So Long" by The Aces is an indie-pop single with underlying elements of rock. It’s an ode to growing within long-term relationships - regardless of the nature of the relationship. The mellow melody is carried out by acoustic guitar strings alongside the beautiful messaging of the lyrics. When you’ve known and loved someone "for so long", they come to feel like an invaluable extension of yourself. Moments of pure bliss and chaos can’t be imagined without their presence. Utah natives, The Aces, are a queer band that just released their third album. The album also shares the song’s title and explores different experiences the members have had a part and collectively as a group; you can listen to the rest of the album here. In addition to the new album, The Aces will also be touring the U.K., E.U., and Northern America; performance dates can be found here. 5. "Everything You've Always Wanted" - bb sway "Everything You've Always Wanted" by bb sway is a folk-pop single about closing one chapter of our lives while embracing the next one. The hard truth is that while we grow, we simultaneously outgrow various aspects of ourselves to make space for budding features that haven't had the chance to blossom yet. A sentiment bb sway eloquently exhibits within the confessional-styled song that’s sung with soothing harmonies. All in all, it acknowledges and loans listeners a period to grieve older versions of themselves as they step into the version they’ve “always wanted”. The single is the first song on the London-based artist's latest EP, How Will I Get There?, which takes listeners through the range of emotions bb sway experienced while on their gender transitioning journey. Other thoughtful singles to check out are 2022's "My Love is True" and "I Found Out When the Day Had Come". 4. "Something About Her" - BATHSHEBA "Something About Her" by BATHSHEBA is a euro-pop ballad about the artist falling for another woman for the first time. There’s a catch, though: they’re both in committed relationships with other people. With our artist having "a boyfriend", and their muse being "in love with somebody else". But that doesn't stop BATHSHEBA from thinking about this woman within the confines of this stunning piano-driven song. It expertly demonstrates what it’s like to be caught between two worlds; the one we’re expected to reside in and the one that allows us to be authentically us - where we can freely explore our identities. BATHSHEBA's discography highlights their fondness for experimenting with differing synths and instruments to bring listeners emotionally charged music; other singles to check out from them are their latest single, "Rain" and 2020's "Lost Your Mind". 3. "Peter Pan" - Nikitaa "Peter Pan" by Nikitaa is a trap-pop single that calls out the man-children that plague the Los Angeles dating scene. The song showcases dark synths alongside Nikitaa’s sultry lyrics that pack serious punches. But the best part is how they give listeners terms to distinguish man-children who give below bare-minimum effort from men more than willing to rise up to meet expectations. Peter Pan is used to encapsulate the man-child’s energy while Captain Hook embodies a man actually seeking out a partner. Let this single serve as your self-reminder that it’s 2023 - we are no longer mothering or babying our partners. They can either “grow-up” to be reciprocating partners, or move out the damn way for the honorable Captain Hook. Nikitaa is a queer Indian artist with an exciting interactive project called The Ether for fans to fawn over their music. The artist also has an upcoming performance as the opening act at West Hollywood’s The Viper Room on June 23rd; tickets for the show can be found here. 2. "Tears in the Moonlight" - Kelechi "Tears in the Moonlight" by Kelechi is a retro indie-pop single that seamlessly blends into the 80s. Kelechi’s passionate vocals wrap listeners up in the bittersweet aftermath of a romance that never happened. The song is the perfect example of lyrical dissonance. Despite the bright and hypnotic beat with some of the smoothest groove to be displayed, the lyrics lay out a heartache inducing situation. While there was a strong “chance at love”, a series of moments and events shifted the connection away from this chance. Even though no one is at fault, it’s difficult to not be upset over the result - even getting caught up in what could have been. The single ultimately feeds listeners sad girl summer needs, and gives us all a worthy excuse to be deep in our feelings. Kelechi is a queer Nigerian-American artist. Singles to check out when you’re in the mood for retro pop romance are 2022's “just another song” featuring Vincint, and 2019's “Forever Tonight”. 1. "Kissing Other Boys" - JXCKY "Kissing Other Boys" by JXCKY is a dark-pop single about the cat and mouse games we participate in when attempting to transition a situationship into a committed relationship. The song showcases a dangerously infectious rhythm that’s determined to stick with listeners. The opening verse captures the universal anxiety that’s created from inconsistent communication. This anxiety then gets replaced with induced jealousy in an attempt to refocus the attention of the star-crossed lovers in the second verse. Finally, it all explodes as the two involved in this game of cat and mouse set their sights on other tantalizing bodies. JXCKY expresses their desire and vulnerability all while making us wonder why we play these games to begin with when we only have eyes for one person. JXCKY is a Chinese-Cambodian artist based in Australia with a discography filled with dark-pop bangers. Other enticing singles to check out from the artist are 2022's “Love Like Mine” and 2021's “The Imitation Game”. If you thought the appreciating stops here, you’re most definitely mistaken. We’ve created a playlist that not only features the songs highlighted here, but an additional 30 songs that are begging to be blasted on your headphones and speakers. The Somewhere Over the Radio playlist gives you two hours’ worth of queer deliciousness – and who knows, maybe you’ll find your next favorite artist to listen to and share with others. I’d love to close by recommending organizations dedicated to preserving queer art and lives like FREE THE WORK, The Sylvia Rivera Law Project, the National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network, The Network / La Red, and Allies In Arts within North America. And Outright International, the AZ Magazine, QUEERAF, ILGA-Europe, Community Bread, and the It Gets Better Project in the global community. As much fun as solidarity is in regards to celebrations, we also have a responsibility to show up and assist in moments of hardship and insurmountable losses. Please, enjoy Pride Month and show the LGBTQIA+ community all the virtual love in the world. Written by Giavanna Gradaille Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

TRIGGER WARNING- SEXUAL ASSAULT Victoria Staff’s latest single, “Campfire,” is a deeply vulnerable track about navigating life after sexual assault. The song was written from her own experience when she was sixteen years old. Writing this track was a cathartic journey that helped her process this traumatic experience and the complex emotions that come with it. Furthermore, Staff provides a voice to any victims that have been silenced by their abuser and are afraid to speak up. Regarding the song, Staff stated that she felt there were plenty of songs about “overcoming trauma and being the bigger person.” However, she wanted to create a song for the survivors who are still “in the eye of the storm.” A song that can be a sense of comfort and security while they are still experiencing the pain and are unable to seek closure. The lyrics throughout the track convey the thoughts that run through survivors’ minds and brings to light the feelings of anxiety, depression, and self-doubt. Staff also divulges the heartbreaking reality that, sometimes, survivors think they have finally found peace, only for something to trigger their trauma. Throughout the song, she illustrates the heart-wrenching flashbacks to the night of her assault. Her somber yet poetic lyrics convey the grief that overwhelms her heart. However, she also does not hold back the anger and disgust she feels toward her attacker. This is her powerful way of reclaiming the narrative and reducing the abuser to the worthless, shameful person they are. Staff portrays her emotions in a brilliant way that evokes feelings of sorrow and anger simultaneously. Every single lyric throughout the track is brilliantly written, making it impossible to pinpoint my favorite line. But the overall theme captures the aftermath of assault accurately. Staff sings, “I’m not bruised, not scarred, not hurt// But all the placed you have touched me, I am burned// Threw out all my clothes when I learned that they were singed// Built a campfire, then you threw me in.” The first three lines show that she is not damaged beyond repair, and that she is able to heal. However, there was a part of herself that was lost during the trauma, and she had to throw it all away. Then, the fourth line reveals the clever hook—that similar to a warm campfire, her abuser made her feel safe and comforted, until they betrayed her trust and pushed her into the destructive flames. When most sexual assaults are by someone the victim knows, this is, unfortunately, a very common feeling. Staff’s metaphor is a clever comparison that effortlessly illustrates the betrayal and hurt victims often experience. Then, in the second half of the chorus, she reveals her anger as she sings, “It’s like you held me tight, just so you could let me go// And you made me burn everything I’ve ever known// When you grabbed things that were never yours to hold// Hope you burned your hands when you got me all alone.” The misery her abuser put her through makes her livid when she thinks back on the traumatic experience. She now hopes that, when they assaulted her, they were also hurt in the end. In the third chorus, there is a significant lyric change to the last four lines, bringing a greater emphasis to the heartache and grief that Staff has experienced. When listeners hear this change for the first time, tears are bound to flow from their already weeping eyes. With “Campfire,” Staff eloquently brings to light the trauma of sexual assault and the irrevocable damage that it leaves behind. “Campfire” consists of a beautiful production that perfectly encapsulates the deep vulnerability found within the lyrics. The song begins with soft synth sounds which are quickly met by a unique beat that is reminiscent of someone walking in high heels. This beat continues throughout the remainder of the song, providing a constant, steady rhythm that does not distract from the sensitive lyrics. After a few measures, a simple yet elegant guitar riff picks up that provides an airy vibe, before Staff’s heavenly vocals begin. The production remains consistent in the verse and continues in the chorus. However, the chorus, introduces a light violin in the background that further enhances the ethereal element of the song. Then in the bridge, the production replaces the guitar with piano chords that emphasizes the emotional climax and the shift in the track. In the third chorus, the track brings back the guitar and keeps the piano, creating the full production, before the instrumentation teeters off to only the violin and beat for the final chorus. In the outro, the song only contains the guitar and vocals, bringing an emphasis to the vulnerability. The guitar slowly fades until the last line which only contains Staff’s voice, ending the song on a haunting note. Although the entire track is filled with a delicate production that evokes feelings of sorrow, Staff’s voice tugs on the heartstrings of listeners even more. Her vocals contain a slight quiver, as if her voice may crack at any moment from reliving the pain. Whether this was intentional or her candid reaction to singing these lyrics, this provides an extra layer of emotions and heartache to the track. “Campfire” is an incredibly emotional song that utilizes the hauntingly beautiful production to enhance the gut-wrenching lyrics. Victoria Staff is a Canadian pop singer-songwriter. She made her official musical debut earlier this year when she released her single, “Records & Honesty.” However, she has been passionate about music from a young age. When she was five-years-old, her parents signed her up for piano lessons and she immediately was drawn to creating her own music. At ten-years-old, she began truly writing her own music of her own and wrote her first real song, “100 or less.” This song appeared on her first album, The Blue Book Project, which was recently removed from all streaming platforms in an effort to rebrand her sound as something that is authentically her. Between the informal debut in 2017 and the release of her official debut single, Staff earned her degree in Behavioural Neuroscience from UBC. She then learned that a career in that field may not be her true calling, so she turned to music as both a cathartic release and her new, true passion. Staff will still be helping people that struggle with mental illness, but in an artistic, relatable manner. This knowledge only makes her songs resonate deeper and causes fans to anticipate her new releases further, as each song is bound to touch on anxiety, depression, and other mental illness. Staff is not only a singer and a songwriter, but a multi-instrumentalist with skills on the guitar, piano, banjo, and ukulele. She has derived her inspiration from prolific industry names such as Taylor Swift, Hozier, and Gregory Alan Isakov. Similar to her musical heroes, she aspires to create honest art that moves the listener and makes them feel less alone. With only three official releases under her belt, Staff is already on the right track to complete stardom. Written By Karlee Skipper FOLLOW VICTORIA:

As someone who has experienced the disintegration of a long-standing friendship, ‘7 Years’ is particularly poignant. For you, at what point did hope of reconciliation fade into the realization that this is now life? Merritt: It took some time for that realization to set in, mainly because there was seemingly no catalyzing event for the disintegration. All of a sudden, this friend started ignoring me and trying to humiliate me in front of our other friends. The silver lining was that I developed closer relationships with other friends - connections that are strong to this day. How has growing up in New York and Boston influenced your musical sound and worldview? Merritt: I think of these cities as being very sophisticated, cultured, and dynamic - there is so much going on, in all walks of life, and you can just get swept up in the movement and ideas. I like to make my songs sound emotionally sophisticated - in other words, not just elevated by surface level elements, like scenery and descriptions, but by the juxtaposition of feelings and deep dives into psyches. I want my songs to say, I feel this way, and this counterintuitive way, and both things can be true. I love putting themes that are traditionally more literary or cinematic into my songs. And musically, both cities have such a wide range of music being made that it is easy to take in the influences and chart your own musical path. In terms of worldview, both cities place a heavy emphasis on dreams, hard work, and accomplishment. I spend almost all of my time working towards my goals in music, whether that’s writing new songs, working with producers to create and fine-tune the mixes, or creating promotional assets. Growing up in these cities, I definitely inherited a strong and focused kind of work ethic. What was it like studying at the University of Virginia and what are some of your favorite memories from that time? Merritt: I really loved studying at UVA because it felt like there were endless possibilities and opportunities. I’ve always loved learning - there’s a quote out there that essentially says “to live is to love and to learn,” and I agree. There were a lot of opportunities for my areas of study, history and public policy. My favorite memories are moments with friends, just the living that happens between cracks in daily schedules. UVA’s emphasis on social life, its “work hard, play hard” attitude, gave me plenty of fodder for songwriting. Music-wise, I released my first album my first year and performed my first headlining show at Coupe’s in Charlottesville. I spent much of the next few years developing my songwriting in the claustrophobic practice rooms in the basement of UVA’s Old Cabell Hall. Did you find that relocating to Nashville after school has sparked different layers of creativity and inspiration for your art? Merritt: It definitely did - the past couple years have been like when someone goes abroad and gets fluent in a language, but for me it was musical immersion in a city that revolves around my craft. It’s such an open and collaborative place - people are so generous with their advice and time. I actually launched my music career in Nashville, recording an album there (Eyes On Us) with Mitch Dane at Sputnik Sound when I was 17. I’ve continued to evolve my songwriting and musical style, but I remain proud of my high school album. I’ve found the most inspiration from observing different styles of production. I’ve worked with different producers in Nashville over the last couple of years to figure out exactly what my sound should be, what is most true to myself and to my writing. And for the first time, I put together a backing band for myself. It’s so exciting to develop my songs for live concerts, and I love seeing the creativity each band member brings to the table. We also just have a lot of fun together. What is your process for writing lyrics, what are some things you need or rituals/habits you have around your creation process? Merritt: It’s different every time! I usually write the lyrics and music at the same time, though. I improvise vocally over a chord pattern with filler lyrics that pop in my head, then shape the words and melody together. I usually write by myself, and the luxury there is time and flexibility. In a co-write, you need to get everything done within a few hours. When writing alone, you can write as long as inspiration is there, then take a break and come back to it. I sometimes get my best ideas when I’m doing something completely unrelated to music - I open my Notes app and write new lyrics to add later. If you could spend 15 minutes with any artist, past or present, who would it be and what would you discuss? Merritt: It would definitely be Taylor Swift. She taught me how to write a song - I remember dissecting her lyrics in a notebook when I was 13. I’d talk to her about the craft of songwriting - where she draws inspiration, how she develops a song through the production process, whether her melodies usually come in inspired, feeling-oriented ways or whether she consciously constructs them with music theory in mind. Mostly, I’d like to bond over the incredible feeling of songwriting and how it’s guided us both in life. Interviewed By Vanessa Siebrass FOLLOW MERRITT:

Felicia Lu does not let anxious thoughts and self-doubt crowd her mind in her latest single. “Manifest” is about owning who you are and claiming what you want. Through confident lyrics, Lu manifests what she wants for herself—in both her career and personal life. She determines that she deserves the best and will not let herself settle for anything less. This is a lesson that many people need to accept for themselves—that they are allowed to fight for what they want. Lu utilizes clever lyrics throughout the track that supports this notion and brings her thoughts to life. In the chorus, she sings: “I am healthy// I’m divine// Everything I want comes in the perfect time// What I wish for// Will be mine// Know the universe and I always align.” The first two lines she uses uplifting phrases to bolster self-love and acceptance. The subsequent lines are her declaring that, no matter what happens, everything she desires will come to her because she has requested it for herself. These are confident, reassuring lines that not only apply to Lu, but can also boost the confidence of listeners. After these lines, she reveals the clever hook that ties her thoughts together. She sings, “I manifest everything I desire (Manifest)// It will be mine cause I know what I like (Manifest).” Lu has no doubts that her manifestation will come through for her, as it has many times in the past. With the amount she has accomplished in her career, it is clear that manifesting has worked for her. Through “Manifest,” Lu articulates her strong belief that manifesting what you want will lead to endless roads of opportunity, making this an unforgettable addition to her immaculate discography. “Manifest” is a flawless dark-pop track composed of a moody production and confident lyrics that perfectly encapsulates Lu’s captivating artistry. The song kicks off with a guitar riff that is met with eerie synth sound effects after the first measure. When the verse starts, a bass drum is introduced to provide the dark beat. Lu’s compelling vocals effortlessly guide the listener through the lyrics, astounding them with her unique voice. In the pre-chorus, a bass is subtly introduced, playing a similar riff to the guitar but in an octave lower. The bass provides a unique dynamic as it follows the guitar up the riff progression, but does not follow it back down. In the background, there are simple finger snaps and vocal layers that enhance the distinct production. In the transition from the pre-chorus to the chorus, Lu brilliantly crafted the song so it sounds like there is an increase in tempo, even though there is not. This is an excellent example of her impeccable, unmatched songwriting ability that proves her talent is a cut above the rest. Throughout the chorus, synth sound effects are utilized as a harmonic melody, increasing the dark atmosphere of the track. Additionally, there are reverb and delay effects added to her vocals, making a slight echo that is heard in the background. A high ding signifies a switch to the clever hook, where the vocals are layered in an octave higher. Between each line, Lu mutters in her lower register, “Man-i-fest,” pulling the emphasis on the title and showing off her impeccable range. The second verse returns to the original production, with extra synth sound effects added periodically. Rather than the layered vocals singing the same note in the pre-chorus, they harmonize with Lu’s lead vocals this time around before the production explodes back into the final chorus. The outro of the track is an extension of the chorus utilizing previous lyrics. Lu’s muffled voice punctuates each line of the chorus with the lower register lyric, “manifest.” After the last declaration of the title, the song ends abruptly, making the listener naturally compelled to play the song on repeat. “Manifest” is an ingeniously written dark-pop song that further enriches Lu’s unmistakable, individualistic discography. Felicia Lu is an indie-pop singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer from Germany, currently based in Vienna, Austria. In 2014, she made it to the finals of the RTL Talent Show, “Rising Star”. Then in 2017, she was a contestant for the Eurovision Song Contest. She returned to the world-famous contest in 2022 with her song “Anxiety” and placed fourth for Germany. With both “Anxiety” and her next biggest single, “Pay,” the two tracks amount to over 3 million streams on Spotify. Furthermore, Lu has a total of over 14 million streams for her entire discography on the platform. She has 2 extended play albums and several stand-alone singles. Her music is full of relatable lyrics and captivating melodies that draws the attention of listeners. Written By Karlee Skipper FOLLOW FELICIA:

When we exit a relationship, it’s hard to not maintain that desire to know how they are doing, and what their life has become. Even when you know that it’s best to stay apart, their memory is difficult to abandon, and it can lead to a sense of longing. The latest release by artist Cece Vee, “Wishes,” paints this story in the form of an atmospheric song. “Wishes” highlights the emotions that accompany the memories of a past love in a way that allows listeners to live in the speaker’s head and understand them deeply. The song creates an almost haunting ambiance, supported by Cece Vee’s emotion-filled vocals. “Wishes” is the song to listen to in times of feeling unresolved about a past love and Cece Vee provides us with just the right amount of comfort necessary. “Wishes” is an electronic dream pop anthem that has a cinematic feel to it. Cece Vee’s songwriting ability really shines in this song. As the song opens, a distinct scene is set, and it helps listeners get into character with the song’s protagonist. Cece Vee’s singing enhances these lyrics, as her voice is smooth and angelic. The pacing of the song works well with the tone of the track, as it allows listeners to carefully take in everything Cece Vee is saying. The chorus carries an emotional kick, as it portrays the desire to understand the other person in the past relationship. It’s supported by the repetitive nature of the chorus and helps get across what Cece Vee is trying to say to the other person. Overall, the song is a powerful anthem, as it is an honest outlook on trying to move past a complex relationship that still runs deep in the speaker’s mind. Cece Vee is a South African artist credited for her unique and fresh style of lyricism and music. She has been releasing since 2020 but began receiving more recognition for her work in 2021 with her song “Wild Hearts” which received a South African Music Award nomination. Cece Vee’s work is honest, and it shows a level of passion for the topics she discusses in her music. Her musical commentary is one that can’t be ignored, as she is a talent in many aspects and deserves recognition for her artistry. Look out for Cece Vee for she is set to release her second EP later this year, and she is definitely an artist you don’t want to ignore. Written By Chantal Charles FOLLOW CECE VEE: *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

Dealing with fear can be a difficult journey, as it often acts as a barrier that gets in the way of our personal growth and happiness. It creeps into our thoughts, whispering doubts, insecurities, and holding us back from pursuing the things we truly want to have in life. It casts a shadow over our potential. However, it's important to recognize the significance of leaving fear behind. Once we do, we can move forward and become the confident, brave and best version of ourselves. We become happier. We radiate with joy. We become reborn in a way. “ RUNAWAY ” by Hunter Blair Ambrose is a song that reflects on running after all the things that she's ever wanted, while hoping that fear does not get in the way of her desires once again. According to an Instagram caption, she states that this song was inspired by “ Leaving New York, my home, to go for my wildest dreams while hoping that old behavior patterns don’t strike to lead to self destruction. It is about the belief in one's ability to be reborn and learning from your mistakes to start their life over for a better future. It is about leaving your inhibition and fear behind you .” Restarting your life can be scary, but allowing fear to prohibit you from moving forward towards growth, living life and pursuing your dreams is even worse. Hunter left her hometown to make her dreams a reality, as anyone should!. She acknowledges how close fear sticks with her, and how hard it is to let go of it: “ Maybe I got you wrapped around my finger. Maybe I’m under your spell .” She compares making big moves and pushing past fear into the unknown to “ Stepping through the dark, like chromatic. Don’t know where to start, too dramatic .” However, we see Hunter's growth and bravery when she refuses to allow this mistake to continue happening like a cycle or continuing to let this pattern lead to self-sabotage and self-destruction. She fights, stands tall and goes after her dreams: “ I got out. I got loud. I got down, Got around” […] Then I left it behind. Thought it through, gave it time .” The title, “ RUNAWAY” , is Hunter's way of stating how fear causes her to run away from herself, her dreams and desires. It keeps her stagnant, leaving no room for growth. But later she began to question herself as to why nothing new or exciting was happening in her life: “ Searching for me. I just run away. Wonder why it feels like it's always the same .” Fear keeps us stagnant and unhappy, but once we learn to push past it and live our lives to the fullest, we become unstoppable and full of joy. Hunter Blair Ambrose is a Pop and R&B singer based in Los Angeles, California. She gets her inspiration from other Pop and R&B artists, such as The Weeknd, Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga and Janet Jackson. She currently has over 5,000 monthly Spotify listeners. “ RUNAWAY” is a follow-up single after her debut album, “Scorpio Season”, which was released back in 2021 and is described hy Hunter as a, “ Pop/R&B opus exploring the story of a cuffing season fall-time romance gone wrong .” Check out Hunter's new and relatable song, “ RUNAWAY ”, out now on all streaming platforms! Written By Sneet Efrem FOLLOW HUNTER BLAIR AMBROSE:

People often say “what goes around, comes around”, oftentimes, with equal force. In tan feelz’ Wednesday-inspired song, “Revenge (DBSC)”, she speaks to this karmic desire, hoping that the pendulum—truly—swings in both directions. Many of us can likely relate to this feeling, experiencing bitterness over someone who betrayed us, wishing for their inevitable downfall (no matter how immature the emotion can feel). This song is great for anyone wanting to reclaim their power, finding comfort in the fact that an action (being unfaithful, moving on too quickly, or being a bad person) always receives an equal yet opposite reaction. Beginning with spooky staccato notes and sparkling chimes, the song transports you into a haunted house—unnerved—peaking around every corner. The pre-chorus escalates, her voice trailing off with a unique, oscillating distortion. I really like her delivery of the line “Revenge is a dish best served cold”, featuring a subtle accent and dryness that emphasize her angst. The song breaks into an atmospheric chorus, 808 drum beats, and haunting “oooohs”, similar to the sensual yet empowering song “Heaven” by Julia Michaels. I also really enjoyed the “revvy” guitar sounds (i.e. revving a motorcycle) which add an interesting yet grungy flavor to the entire track. Up-and-coming artist Tan Feelz began releasing music last year (2022), covering Nelly Furtado’s well-known song “Say It Right” and Miley Cyrus’ “Nothing Breaks Like A Heart” soon thereafter. Featuring chill-lofi beats, vibey-acoustic ballads (e.g. Breathe), and synth-driven production, she has quickly garnered 1.1 M Tiktok followers and 95K fans on Instagram. Reminding me of the artists Chymes and Emei, she utilizes an atmospheric, breathy sound that blends well with electronic music. For example, the track “Too Shy”, leans into a more sci-fi, spacey production, featuring effective lyrics of romance and longing. Although just starting out, she has amazing potential, capable of singing anything from acoustic tracks to club-inspired, dance music! Written By: Conner Pettit FOLLOW TAN FEELZ:

“Distractions”, Femi’s latest release, is about avoiding the temptation of them. He describes craving more than a distraction, something to intentionally concentrate on. He speaks of embracing feelings, especially where they may be seen as too much to take in. Reacting to life rather than acting within it is the constant cycle he finds himself trapped in. He calls not for emotion to halt but for it to bring him back to reality, rather than pulling him away. The story he develops, and his own individual development, is one of sensitivity, self-awareness, and honesty. Distractions are only temporary, for someone with such a clear sense of their wants and mentality, they are useless. That’s what Femi does here, explains his sense of reality in a way that these distractions have been preventing him from experiencing first hand. The tone of the song is relaxed, but not necessarily depressive. It has its moments of being upbeat, but doesn’t forget the truths it intends to address. It begins with a percussion intro that immediately intrigues the listener. When Femi begins singing, he creates an easily sympathetic voice for the listener by putting them in his shoes using descriptive imagery. When this fades into more intangible experiences, they understand them with him due to this pre-established connection. He sings perfectly in tune with his instrumentals, each line being echoed and the music fading with his own voice when he pauses. When we reach the chorus, he follows this pattern. Each word is purposeful and sung with confidence, making the song easily memorable and securing the ability to sing along after only one listen. The song ends with a statement that summarizes what he’s been trying to say for the entirety of it, “I need more than my distractions”. Femi is an American artist whose work ethic is constantly observed through the sheer amount of creating he does. In the mere three years since 2020, Femi has released ten singles, the most recent of which being his first of 2023 “Distractions”. His other releases feature similar tones to this, electric and modern but featuring intensely emotive subjects. Widely enjoyed for their ability to be danced to as well as related to. And they are enjoyed by a large group, his most streamed single “Unhappy” has over 1.5 million streams on Spotify and as an artist, Femi has been played in 157 countries, gained over 509.6K listeners, and been recognized in article after article for his incredible ability. Follow Femi below and stream “Distractions” to contribute to his continuous success. Written By Hailey Schap FOLLOW FEMI: