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The fight that one never knows how to approach is the battle between letting your emotion drive you or holding yourself back from love. To be left broken means you fear that pain coming back once a new opportunity presents itself. "Mind - Vs. - Heart" by Elena C. Lockleis and Natalia Zuk discusses the longing for love and finding a relationship that can be significant, but there's hesitance in pursuing anything serious. The song paints both fear and love, how intertwined they can become that it holds us back from trying to move forward.The song is delicate and sweet, but it holds so much emotion, providing the intensity of finding yourself in a similar situation. "Mind - Vs. - Heart" has a cheerful tone at the start, you can almost imagine yourself taking a stroll on a sunny day as the intro plays. At first, the lyrics do follow this theme, a setting that feels warm and comforting, until the song progresses and we see the speaker's main struggle. The speaker's struggle becomes clear to us as they want to love the person in front of them but they find themselves leaving to avoid what could be. In the chorus we can hear how the speaker wants to try and be with this person, but there are clear scars from past situations that leave them restrained. Along with past experiences, there's also a sense of self-doubt, as if the speaker believes they need to be alone, not trusting themselves. Throughout the song we see the battle more clearly and how the speaker is stuck in between, not sure what path to take. Us listeners find ourselves mesmerized at the balance of bright instrumentals and the sting of a tragic story, along with an incredible vocal performance. Mixing elements that contrast each other is always a risk, but "Mind - Vs. - Heart" is executed and done so well and it presents us with a story that cuts deep. Elena C. Lockleis is a songwriter based in LA who takes pride in making music that delves into difficult topics such as heartbreak and mental health issues. This song is in collaboration with Natalia Zuk, vocalist from the band Red Carpet Revival. The style of "Mind - Vs. - Heart" was inspired by artists like Julia Michaels. When writing this track, Lockleis used their personal experiences to bring this story to life in such a beautiful manner. Recently, Elena C. Lockleis released a new single "Couldn't Replenish" so check that out and make sure to keep your eye out for what comes next for them. Written By Chantal Charles FOLLOW ELENA C. LOCKLEIS: Instagram   | Spotify    FOLLOW NATALIA ZUK: Instagram   | Spotify   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

Names are sacred things. They serve as the package for our identity and our existence as we meet new people. Names also tie us to other people. Our surnames act as a tether to those who came before us, further establishing an identity for people to interpret. However, this connection can inhibit us, and we feel the need to break free and establish a separate identity. This is the story told by Cali Tucker in her song “Last Name”, as she breaks away from the reputation of her famous family. She also delves into a deeper topic as she explores the experience of forging an independent path without the support of her family. This track is an anthem for those who want to be truly seen and heard for who they are, in spite of the ties that a name may carry. She establishes her own independence while also presenting a genius ethos and storytelling ability that connects to a variety of audiences on a deeper level. This track begins with a mellow guitar and an echoey, dreamy ambience in the background. Percussion is introduced in the verse and provides a light groove behind the lyrics that pushes the song into the chorus. Vocals are powerful and moving while singing about empowering oneself after heartache. The instrumentation provides the context to the lyrics as the guitar and synths create an emotional atmosphere while the percussion adds power that is complemented by the technique and passion present in Tucker’s voice. Tucker communicates her message through both lyrics and instrumental while blessing audiences with her unbelievable vocal prowess, making for a fantastic work of art. Cali Tucker embodies the beauty of southern femininity flawlessly through her musical presence. Her debut single “Dandelion” was released in 2021 and began her partnership with her producers Tricia Battani and G’Harah “PK” Degeddingseze. Her breakout song, “Country Couture”, thoroughly describes her brand of down-to-earth luxury. She has won numerous awards for her music videos and song originality through her genius artistry and powerhouse performance abilities. Cali Tucker is from a family of country icons, but she establishes an identity that is completely herself and will no doubt entrance audiences everywhere.  Written By Victoria Fitzgerald FOLLOW CALI TUCKER: Instagram   | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

"Made Me a Man" is one of Jackson Wang's newest songs, as its the final track off his recently released fourth album MAGICMAN 2 . In the song, Wang uses the phrase “made me a man” to describe a new phase of his life he entered after he met a significant other. Wang was going through hardships, but this person pulled him out of them and made him feel better. He became focused on the relationship and prioritized it above his former vices. After getting to know his partner, he felt like he has become a different person. He feels like he doesn’t have to or no longer has to dwell on the past, because he only wants to focus on the present and what his life is like right now and instead of back then. Wang’s distinct vocals over solemn guitar chords pull you into “Made Me a Man”. His voice is still husky even as he sings in a high octave, showing how talented he is. Also present are hints of piano chords. After the first chorus, the drums are introduced, switching the genre of the song from acoustic to easy listening pop. The guitar and piano carry over into the remainder of the track. Throughout it, elegant harmonies and melodies are combined, which add to the overall graceful sound. Wang served as one of the producers on “Made Me a Man”, which tells us that he not only has amazing vocal talent but musical talent as well. Jackson Wang is a musician from Hong Kong. He grew up playing competitive sports, mostly gymnastics and fencing, before becoming a K-pop artist. He joined the boy band Got7 in 2013 upon its creation. He began releasing solo music three years later with his own record label Team Wang. He released his debut album MIRRORS  in October 2019. He’s also released other amazing music in addition to his debut and MAGICMAN 2 , including his penultimately released album MAGIC MAN , and the singles “LMLY”, “Why Why Why”, and “Blow”. He has also won several music awards. Jackson’s Wang is an amazing and virtuoso music artist! Written By Ashley Adams FOLLOW JACKSON WANG: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Going back to where it all began, David Wimbish & The Collection is once again the solo project that it was when the project first started, creating a bittersweet full circle moment. “The end of one journey is often the beginning of another, and sometimes, you need to travel down a road that’s beautiful and challenging, to realize that heading back to the place you began is where you need to go." - David Wimbish TRACKLIST Won't Stop Yet (One More Hour) Love Me More Medication (Deserve To Be Well) Beautiful Life (Just Can't Get Enough) The Weather (Too Tired To Cry) Love (At The End Of The World) You (Taste Like Wine) Take It With You Singer/Songwriter & Multi-Instrumentalist, David Wimbish began releasing music as a solo artist over a decade ago underneath the name "David Wimbish & The Collection". Little did he know at the time just how much his music would end up impacting the world, and what his project would grow into. What would end up becoming The Collection, a six-piece touring band, David dropped his name from the title, as he found a sense of family and community with his newfound members and collaborators. They released four full-length albums together, gained a loyal fanbase of over 252k Spotify monthly listeners, and had recognition from American Songwriter and NPR's Tiny Desk. Last year, (2024), various members of the band had announced their departure from The Collection to pursue other life callings, leaving David Wimbish to make the decision of a lifetime. And so, he went back to his roots, and I'd say he made the right call. This brand new self-titled album takes classic The Collection fan favorites and gives them a fresh, raw, emotional spin that shed's a whole new light on their meanings; plus, two whole new songs for us to explore. "I always just want people to feel like they’re not alone... On these songs, I’m tapping into some deeply vulnerable topics and spaces, like relationships, self- loathing, depression, and fear. My hope is people will feel very seen and maybe even held." - David Wimbish Won't Stop Yet (One More Hour) Ironically, we start off with the remake of the first ever song I heard from The Collection when I started Pop Passion Blog, and the song that made me an instant fan. While the original track took more of a fun-loving pop approach, this version makes you stop and really pay attention to the actual seriousness behind the lyrics. The instrumentation has a fullness and a realness that expands the emotional drive. The style feels more like folk rock, with an Americana twist in the lead guitar. When this song first came out, we were all coming out of a global pandemic, but today it still feels more relatable than ever. "Won't Stop Yet (One More Hour)" is about being stuck in a rut, but knowing that you are. Admitting it is always the first step to recovery, and all you can do is keep trying your best every single day; even if your best is just the ability to get out of bed. David sings, "I got one more hour, I got one more step. Might not make it further, but I won't stop yet". Love Me More Track two is the leading brand new solo single, "Love Me More", a tragic ballad about losing a love due to the lack of loving yourself. Sometimes, we don't realize just how much our mental health affects not only how we think we feel about other people, but how we feel about ourselves. We end up sabotaging good things, and hurting people that might not deserve it because deep down inside, we think we're not worthy of the love they're trying to give us. David Wimbish wrote "Love Me More" at the end of a crumbling relationship as he was trying to make sense of it all. After it did end, he came to the realization that he needed to start loving himself more as he sings, "what if you love me more than I do?". "Love Me More" has a gorgeous, classic tone and groove with heavy reverb ringing in the air. David let's his vocals and the melody shine through, really emphasising the personal vulnerability. Medication (Deserve To Be Well) Next, we have a new version of a fan favorite song. David Wimbish has always been open about his long-term struggles with depression, and has used his music to share his experiences in hopes to help others not feel alone. Like many, he used to not want to take medication in fear that it would change who he is, but after giving it a try, he realized it was the best thing for him and his mental health. "Medication (Deserve To Be Well)" is an empowering song about breaking free from the chains and doing what's best for you to make yourself happy. If that means taking medication, you don't have to be ashamed. The original version of this song has an upbeat, pop influenced soundscape, while this version is more broken down with acoustic strings. It's gentle, yet so incredibly powerful at the same time. It feels like a cinematic experience that gives you a sense of hope and catharsis. David sings with such raw emotion, I'll be honest, I was choking back tears. Watch the acoustic live version here! Beautiful Life (Just Can't Get Enough) "Beautiful Life" was released several years ago, and still remains a fan favorite song due to its powerful nature. David wrote this song when he found out he was going to be a father, and tried to imagine he was singing it to his unborn child. You can tell the original comes from a place of excitement with a lively soundscape full of horns. However, "Beautiful Life (Just Can't Get Enough)" feels softer, slower and has layers of guitar. David sings from a place of fondness; now that it's been years since he wrote this song, he's able to pull deeper from that emotion, and you can feel it in his voice. This track is about letting go of all the darkness that has held you back, and grasping onto the good. Enjoy your life while you still have it. Watch the acoustic live version here! The Weather (Too Tired To Cry) Have you ever had someone ask you how you are and you struggled to even say that you're fine, because it would be a lie? David Wimbish wrote "The Weather", a very personal story, while in an airport in Portugal. It was one of those days where everything seemed to be going wrong. When someone asked him how he was, he didn't even know how to answer, and just needed time to have a moment alone. We've all been there, and that's what makes this song one of the most relatable out there. "The Weather (Too Tired To Cry)" takes a more emotional approach without losing its powerful structure with layers of guitar and crashing drums. You can hear the raw pain behind David's voice as he sings. Love (At The End Of The World) "Love (At The End Of The World)" is a song that grows more true each day, as life becomes harder to survive. However, this song holds a sense of hope as it's about finding love and someone to hold onto in midst of all the chaos and turmoil. The original track has almost a sassy tone as to call out the ones who put us in the situation in the first place. It's more of an upbeat, classic orchestral rock ballad. However, this version really sheds light on the love perspective of the story. "Love (At The End Of The World)", has a slower tempo, with softer vocals, acoustic guitar and gentle strings to create a romantic atmosphere. In times like these, it's important to have someone in your life to help get you through. Honestly, this sounds like a perfect song to play at your wedding if you're getting married in the next few years. (I am, and I'm totally adding this to my wedding playlist). You (Taste Like Wine) Taking a whole new approach on an old favorite, "You (Taste Like Wine)" has such a beautiful, fresh sound that sounds authentic to David's style. The original "You Taste Like Wine" has more of a 60's / 70's influence, using electric organ and horns with a super classic and upbeat groove. However, "You (Taste Like Wine)" has a complete rhythmic and tonal shift, having an intentional, loving melody with a soft folk rock soundscape. This song is about falling in love with someone that you know love's you back. After being through so much, you've finally found someone that feels like home to you. Take It With You Last but certainly not least, we've reached the final track, "Take It With You", which is the other brand new song off of the album. This song is a tragic, emotional piano ballad that builds into something more. I can imagine this one being a tear-jerker at live shows. "Take It With You" is about that type of toxic relationship where your partners problems start to intertwine into yours to the point where it's not only negatively impacting your feelings for each other, but your own personal life and mental health. David sings, "Take it with you when you go, that shit ain't really mine to hold on to". This song was the perfect, powerful closing track to an incredible album. I've personally been a big fan of David's work for a long time now, and I've got to say I couldn't be more proud than I am right now of what he is doing. I've always believed that he is one of the most underrated songwriters and artists of our time, and this new project solidifies that even more for me. Listening to reimagined versions of already incredible songs made me emotional, because you can hear the love and passion that he has put behind re-doing each song. Not only that, but the two brand new tracks are now two of my favorite songs that I've heard all year long, and I've heard A LOT of songs. I'm so happy that we still have David Wimbish & The Collection to look forward to in the foreseeable future, because his music is needed in this world. We love you David! Do us a favor and follow all of David's social media pages below to stay updated on his incredible journey. Written By Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW DAVID WIMBISH & THE COLLECTION: Instagram | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube | Website *Sponsored Post - Discovered on SubmitHub. A contribution was made to help create this article as part of a promotional campaign.

Avery Lynch released her latest single, “Sweetheart,” which is the perfect, painfully relatable heartbreak anthem. Every lyric from every line paints a bigger, vivid picture for listeners to visualize a story told beautifully by Avery Lynch. Lack of effort, attention, and affection from a partner in a relationship is a hurtful, confusing experience to navigate. Unfortunately, situations like this are not rare. Dealing with a relationship that feels one-sided or like your partner has lost interest can create deeper wounds, insecurities, and more confusion. When you move forward from the relationship and explore romantic connections with someone else, it becomes easier to see how low your previous partner set the bar. “Sweetheart” highlights complicated feelings, like the sadness when reflecting on a past relationship, but also the sense of peace or happiness experiencing what you always wanted with another person who does it naturally. In the song, Avery Lynch sings, “He calls me sweetheart / And likes to talk to me / I know what we are / What else could a girl need / I’d give him five stars / You left the bar where it's not hard to reach.” These lyrics are just one example of how “Sweetheart” speaks to everyone in a similar situation, showing how hurt from a past relationship can linger, even once you have found someone who cares for you in a way your previous partner did not. “Sweetheart” is a calming masterpiece. The gentle plucks of an acoustic guitar paired with a piano at the beginning immediately draws listeners in to the comforting, emotional sphere Avery Lynch naturally creates with her voice. The blend of the guitar with her delicate, soft vocals adds more emotional layers to the song’s already powerful, melancholic, and reflective tone. Her vocal tone is very unique, and balances an airy lightness with power that displays her natural vocal abilities. Her voice throughout the song keeps listeners grounded and opens them up to feeling the raw vulnerability she expresses. In “Sweetheart,” Avery Lynch shows strength through her soft, honest singing, and her vocal tone is reminiscent of Lizzy McAlpine’s . “Sweetheart” maintains a consistent, stable melody and pace throughout the song. The chorus is elevated by moments where you can hear Avery Lynch’s quiet, warm humming. The hums feel like a hushed lullaby that you want to keep listening to for comfort at night. Towards the end of the song, the sound of the guitar builds and the background music quietly swells. This brief moment feels like when you suppress deep emotions, only for them to rush to the surface when you don’t expect it. Los Angeles based singer, Avery Lynch, originally from Pennsylvania, began her incredible music journey at just 7 years old when she began playing the piano. Before Lynch found her voice as a songwriter, her early compositions were instrumental. With her natural musicality, heartfelt lyrics, and vulnerable storytelling, Avery Lynch attended Berklee College of Music where she continued to hone her craft. Avery Lynch is often described as a “happy girl filled with sad songs." She has created music that is inspired by her life experiences, the world around her, and the media she consumes. Lynch’s music journey began on TikTok in 2020, and resonated deeply with numerous fans all around the world. She has amassed over 400 million streams and 400K monthly listeners on Spotify. All of Avery Lynch’s hard work and natural talent has led her to receiving accolades from notable tastemakers like Just Jared and EARMILK. Another big milestone in Avery Lynch’s career was signing with RECORDS (Song Music). With her clear passion for music, unforgettable sound, and unique artistry, Avery Lynch continues to connect with fans worldwide, and has already become a bright star within the music industry. Written By Kyler Griggs FOLLOW AVERY LYNCH: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Meeting that celebrity that you’ve deemed a hero, followed through thick and thin, can be such an amazing experience… sometimes. There are the ones that you realize, after the show, they really aren’t all that. That is what Samantha Margret’s newest single “midnight oil” spills, with her own encounter with an artist that she looked up to. Pulling a curtain back on that “hero” can really expose a lot of hidden attributes, such as egotistical men who look down on others. Samantha speaks on the track, explaining how she is “so tired of men who think they’re gods because the stage is a few feet above the audience. “Meeting a hero, realizing he's just a guy, always reminds me of the Wizard of Oz. ‘When the curtain comes down’, the magic is gone.” Samantha explains. This track gives a sharp edge on the matter delivers a compelling story paired with instrumental. I have to note that the vocals throughout are so beautiful, with a breathy vox and whisper creating an epic atmosphere for how the song carries out. There is a ton of harmonic background with heavy reverb adding to that atmosphere. Elevating it, though, is the house drums that pick the beat up. It pushes the song forward, mixing electronic elements into the sad pop. The switch up in the final minute, that is teased with the vocals, are a perfect mixup of the song. It effortlessly ties everything together, and the pause that occurs toward the outro creates suspense for the final moments. Ending in a lower octave, it accentuates that disappointment, with whispering making the song come full circle. Effortlessly poetic. Samantha Margret is a singer/songwriter based in the San Francisco Bay Area, California. She writes music for the girls, reclaiming their history, bodies, and feelings. Samantha’s debut single, “Feminist GF”, released back in October 2020 and has over a million plays on Spotify. After releasing the most popular single, “RAGE”, it was right around the cusp of when Roe v. Wade was overturned. With that, a debut EP was born with the same title, becoming a battle cry and emotional release over the event. Since then, Samantha has releases multiple EPs and singles, accumulating over 80 thousand listeners on Spotify. If you liked “midnight oil”, be sure to be on the lookout for Samantha’s new album “Dream Girl” dropping in early October with the links below! Written By Nevaeh Scott FOLLOW SAMANTHA MARGRET: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

After a 2.5 year hiatus from creating new music, Julia Campbell shares “Ohio Song” with the world, a classic track about breakups from her upcoming EP “Sick of Staying”. She finds ways to make even the most common metaphors for breakups her own, like train wrecks and car crashes, highlighting her lyricism and emotional ties to this situation. This song tells the story of their relationship and the fallout, how every time she sees an Ohio license plate she can't help but think of her ex lover. The ups and downs, the stupid fights and new haircuts, how even though they knew they were not right for each other they could just not stay away. Despite the melancholic tone to Campbell’s voice, the soundscape of this song is an indie pop vibe, with a strong bass line guiding the story along. Her voice is breathy and soft, similar to old Gracie Abrams and Maisie Peters. In the chorus, she sings, “Damn we were a train wreck waiting to happen / Everybody saw us go off the tracks and / You still couldn’t say it / Guess it’s easier just staying”. She recounts drunken arguments, comparing them also to a car crash, to the impact of air bags, saying that they should have just dropped it when they had the chance. The bridge feels like a whirlwind of emotions and instruments, similar to the chaos in Campbell’s mind in regards to this mess of an ending. Julia Campbell is a Pennsylvania born singer-songwriter, currently based in Los Angeles. She started teaching herself how to play the guitar at only fourteen, but her love for music began much earlier than that. She remembers sitting in her carseat jamming out to Avril Laigne, listening to her mother “dissect Joni Mitchell lyrics”, and learning the Monkees from her father’s CD. Music was her upbringing, and she quickly found it to be an outlet for emotions and storytelling. With various singles released in her career, she creates her own strong sound and vibe, integrating herself into the LA music scene and performing all around the city. Make sure to follow the social medias before for more music from Julia Campbell, and stay tuned for the release of her EP “Sick of Staying”. Written By Tessa Maddaloni FOLLOW JULIA CAMPBELL: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube

Bryce French gives us a beautiful summer song based on reminiscing on who he was. We get a personal reflection of a childhood home, which then catapults us into a deep dive of emotion around who the artist used to be. We can easily gather that this was the main point when the song says, "The hill I grew up on ain't that tall / Anymore / When it's all gone / Nothing left for me to hold / This house is old and I still feel as I was." We gather that the artist feels like while there has been significant change, time has not yet changed everything. My favorite part of the song is the second verse which says, "Written on the sidewalk / In chalk that washed away / Sixteen years ago when my young face began to change / Words of affirmation / Like kid, you're gonna make it / I thought I could take on the world / My parents are to blame." Here we get a glimpse not only of the reflection on the past but, also the innocence that came with having childlike faith in our parents, hanging on to every word they said. "As I Was" provides an inner-reflective tone for the listener. We know that it's rather introspective, the artist is looking at themselves and recalling how things used to be. While being more in depth it's still a very upbeat and catchy tune. The mood is then presented in this melancholic but reminiscent way that brings a content yet ready-for-change vibe. The instrumentation allows the listener to remain intrigued through fast pacing, hard hitting guitar riffs, electronic synths, and beautiful drum beats. This also allows for the lyrics to add another level of depth, drawing the listeners in and keeping them on edge wanting more. Bryce French is a singer-songwriter based out of Boston MA. Over the last few years he's released two EP's. His passion is songwriting which is why he is currently pursuing a Masters Degree in songwriting from Berklee College of Music. Inspired by bands like the Lumineers, Noah Kahan, and Tyler Childers, Bryce's goal with his music is to tell stories with catchy melodies, while collaborating with is musician friends as well. Bryce spends most of his time making music and teaching young adults how to sing. If you're in the mood for a hot summer hit then check out Bryce French's music today! Written By Destiny Rundquist FOLLOW Bryce French: Instagram | Spotify

Pic Creds: Apple Music Alex Warren has taken the pop music culture by storm. With smashing hits like "Chasing Shadows" and "Carry You Home" Alex Warren has become a household name. His new album "You'll Be Alright Kid" chapter 2 has given his fans something to look forward to this summer and it did not disappoint. Enough chit chat, let's dive right in and talk summer jams. Tracklist Eternity The Outside First Time On Earth Bloodline (with Jelly Roll) Never Be Far Ordinary Everything Getaway Car Who I Am You Can't Stop This On My Mind (Alex Warren & ROSÉ) Alex Warren is a California native who has had to overcome many obstacles to reach stardom. He made a name for himself by first being recognized for his entertaining videos with his wife Kovur on TikTok. Alex Warren helped found and run a collaborative TikTok group called the Hype House. After a singing video of his gained traction he began taking his singing career seriously and has since released numerous hit songs and toured all over the country. When asked about his new album Alex Warren said, "The first half was like, hey, I'm broken and this is why, and here's all the things that have happened in my life, and here's also me finding love. The second one's like, hey, this is who I am now, this is where I am now, and this is how I've been able to heal." Eternity We start strong with the song "Eternity" which gives us a glimpse into navigating grief after loss. There's a beautiful mix of ethereal and pop tones. Almost like a mystical yet surreal beat that pulls us into the raw emotion that Alex is communicating with us. Whether you've experienced personal loss and grief, or you're trying to relate directly to Alex, he has made grief a physical, tangible feeling with "Eternity." One of the strongest lyrics within this song says, "To be with you in paradise / What I wouldn't sacrifice / Why'd you have to chase the light / Somewhere I can't go? / As I walk this world alone." It's heart wrenching to miss someone to this degree and Alex Warren paints it so perfectly for us. The Outside Song two is the beginning of two worlds colliding. We get two different perspectives. A boy who lives paycheck to paycheck, not really sure where life is going and a girl who's actively searching for more out of life. What makes "The Outside" unique is the way it echoes from each perspective. Both boy and girl are searching for some glimpse of hope or some deeper connection/meaning. The chorus conveys this to us so clearly when it says, "Could you give me a reason, give me a sign? / Cause I'm down and out of my mind / Is there someone out there to throw me down a lifeline?" This starts and active search for healing, growth, and companionship. First Time On Earth By song three we're grasping the depths of the hurt being processed. There's a maturity that is visible within Alex Warren. The song talks about growing up and understanding that "It's your first time on Earth too." Meaning that as humans we're subject to making mistakes, the most important thing is being able to forgive. The lyrics are soaked not only in reflection but also forgiveness and sincerity. The instrumentation echoes and builds upon this theme as well, starting slow with mellowed guitar and building with pops of drums and keyboard. Personally, my favorite line of the song says, "It's just pain that you were passing down / I'm older, and see it now / It's your first time on Earth too." I can draw connections with growing older and forgiving what others couldn't prevent. Bloodline (with Jelly Roll) When "Bloodline" rolls around we're already wrestling with our own strength. How do you overcome, heal, and conquer the demons that have held you down for generations? "Bloodline" puts it in the most beautifully simple way. We don't have to follow in our bloodline. We can be generational curse breakers. Alex Warren and Jelly Roll give us an example of what pushing through looks like, what breaking trauma cycles looks like. The instrumentation gives us a sense of power. We tap our foot along to the beat because it's catchy, it cultivates a spirit of change within us. With powerhouse lyrics like, "That storm keeps on raging / But don't you forget / God's not done with you yet," it's hard not to be hopeful. Never Be Far I think it's nearly impossible to look back at our younger selves and not miss who we were. That's exactly what "Never Be Far" is about. We see self reflection and reminiscing, missing certain moments of your past. Alex Warren makes it clear that just because life goes on doesn't mean we have to forget where we've come from. We get a hopeful and future focused tone. Each word, each line, drenched in hopeful reflection and promise for what's to come. Lines like, "Oh, I promise, wherever I carry your heart with me / I'll never be far, never be far from / Home, home / Home, home," put an emphasis on the deep connection and the sincerity regarding moving forward and holding space for the younger you. Ordinary At this point we're seeing the story fall together. We're back to two worlds colliding, loving someone who feels out of this world extraordinary. Earlier in the album we experience "The Outside" which is an active search for something or someone more. Now with "Ordinary" that searching is complete. The artist has found the one who completes him. We understand the overwhelming feeling of true love and what it means to hold forever in your heart together. With the idea of heaven being tied into the song we get another ethereal vibe. A powerhouse beat with serious yet positive tone that explores the depths of love. While also giving us adorable lyrics like, "The angels up in the clouds are jealous knowing we found / Something so out of the ordinary / You got me kissing the ground of your sanctuary / Shatter me with your touch, oh Lord, return me to dust." Everything After "Ordinary" we're set in motion to move forward with the love of our life. We recognize that this is the shift for Alex Warren. He's now past wrestling with what it looks like to heal, and he's actively walking out life healing and thriving with the love of his life. "Everything" is a ballad that reassures and proves just how much love means to him. Alex is essentially saying 'if I don't have you then I don't have anything.' Which is both beautiful and raw. The instrumentation is classical, slow but romantic like a slow flame. He professes how much she means to him when he says, "If you're not here, what would I be? / Darlin, don't take your love from me / I could live without, oh, just about anything / But if I lose you, darlin, then I lose everything." Further proving to us how deeply he feels for his significant other. Getaway Car Even after the healing process has begun it can be hard to push through adversity and hard situations "Getaway Car" paints this concept perfectly. While actively building a better life for himself there is still a little voice preying on his downfall. I think I speak for myself and numerous others when I say that this is a common feeling for everyone. When you're in a position that has you actively thriving, there can still be little seedlings of doubt or fear. The tone of the song allows us to connect and feel that concept in depth. The upbeat and crazy guitar riffs and the bursting drum beats give off the saucy tone associated with those feelings. My favorite line of the song says, "The Devil's catching up to my getaway car / Always in my ear saying 'You're no winner' / If I blow this shot, then you'll pull that trigger." You can visualize the active battle between fear and hope. Who I Am "Who I Am" is a breathtaking ballad filled with question and hard hitting emotion. It's a reflection and deep dive into who Alex is. Alex Warren is being open and honest in the most raw way he knows how to be, by explaining exactly how he views himself. There's a relatability that makes it easy for the listeners to connect with him. Being the butt of the joke so it hurts less is a common experience. We strive to hurt less, if we hurt ourselves first then the damage is already done. The question that is pressing in the song is 'Who am I to you?' We know how we view ourselves but how do others see us? Some of the lines prod us to think deeper. One of my favorite lyrics says, "I need to let somebody down, but I'm somebody / I'm somebody / I need to let somebody down / So, tell me, tell me, tell me / Who I am to you." I've come to understand that Alex Warren wants to be understood too and that's perfectly okay. You Can't Stop This Now we're nearing the end and we're going out with a bang. This powerhouse song tells us directly that we can't stop Alex Warren's progress, it's only up from here. There's a finality, a confidence. We know how hard Alex has worked for this moment and he's taking a minute to soak it all in. Right off the bat he talks about how hard he worked to get where he is when he says, "I had a dream, I had a vision / I had to work for this, and you didn't / I had to bleed, still got the stitches." Not saying that others worked less for what they have, but rather proudly saying that he's fought for everything he's had. He has numerous reason to be proud. The upbeat, intense instrumentation gives us the 'champion' or 'king of the world' vibe tying the song together beautifully. On My Mind We end on a mellow note. A hopeful outlook remembering and holding love dearly. There's a melding together of all the emotions talked about throughout the album. Alex is actively holding healing and hurt in both hands, balancing them out, and holding space for it all. The song talks specifically about love and how the people he's loved are still on his mind. My favorite lyrics from this song say, "Maybe it's the way the clouds are painted a perfect shade of yellow all across the sky / Maybe it's the way the times are changing, and I'm stuck in the middle, frozen in a fire / But, baby, you're on my mind." There's a wholesome, hopeful feel that allows us to smile knowing that Alex has overcome. The pacing of the song is slower than some of the other songs, but it's meant to provide the sweetness that comes with resolution and it does just that. Alex Warren has wormed his way into my heart and I fear he'll never leave. Although, I don't think I want him to. The album was beautifully crafted, packed full of raw emotion, and hopeful undertones which is what we all need. Alex never missed a beat, he was right on the money, proving yet again that you can mix many different music mediums and create a lyrical masterpiece. I encourage you all to sit down and listen to "You'll Be Alright, Kid" chapter 2. You won't regret it. Written By Destiny Rundquist Instagram | Spotify | TikTok *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

Have you ever been in a relationship with someone who annoyingly causes the same argument every night over and over again for no reason... and you literally wish they would just shut up? For the sake of your relationship, you feel like if they really cared, they would stop picking a fight with you, but they let their mouth get them in trouble every chance that they get. This is what Anna Jay's new single, "Shut Up!" is all about. It's a toxic, never-ending cycle that you find yourself trapped in until there's nothing left to be fighting for. "Shut Up!" by Anna Jay takes an edgy approach to a modern pop sound, using electric guitar and heavy drums to set it's groove and tone. Anna Jay sings beautifully, emotions running high with the poetic and heart-breaking lyrics. One of my personal favorite parts of the structure of this song are the layers of background vocals and harmonies. Although this song has an instrumentation that has almost an angry and aggressive approach, the vocals give off more of a devastating sadness. I'd love to hear an acoustic ballad version with how gorgeous Anna's vocals are. Anna Jay is a harpist-turned-pop star who uses nostalgic pop blended with raw, emotional lyrics to create relatable, catchy tracks for fans of the likes of Taylor Swift , Olivia Rodrigo , Tate McRae , Halsey , Fletcher , Reneé Rapp , and Charlotte Lawrence . After having to leave the Manhattan School of Music where she studied harp after receiving an injury, Anna Jay discovered her true passion was for songwriting. She released her debut single, "Bad Day" in 2022, and has been steadily releasing new singles each year ever since. She works hard in the city of NYC to self-fund her music, wanting to spread her voice across the pop world. Make sure to follow Anna below to keep up on her incredible journey! It's only still just beginning. Written By Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW ANNA: Instagram | Spotify  | Facebook  | YouTube | Website

All soft, dark, light, and heavy, artist Gatlin’s single ‘Jesus Christ & Country Clubs’ takes the worst out of a bad situation and creates something beautiful out of confusing, complex emotions. ‘Jesus Christ & Country Clubs’ highlights the experience of caring for someone who prefers more superficial qualities and focused on fitting in certain environments rather than making genuine connections. The track dives into themes of class, heartbreak, self-worth, etc., all via describing a lost connection with someone who valued certain looks, environments, and amenities above all else. It’s clear to listeners that Gatlin has left this connection behind but that it additionally left scars and memories that impact Gatlin beyond the breakup. ‘Jesus Christ & Country Clubs’ will not only easily resonate with listeners, as these themes and predicaments are unfortunately common, but it will give them time to truly reflect and connect with themselves. This moody, yet changing in pace, song fully puts Gatlin’s heart on display, not shying away from the confusing feelings of a breakup while also allowing room for the feelings she has about her own self. From beginning to end, Gatlin doesn’t shy away from how she feels – both toward herself and her ex-partner, transparently showing a realistic perspective and offering listeners a place to reflect and begin the process of listening to oneself. While pain, confusion, and clarity are heard throughout ‘Jesus Christ & Country Clubs’ in Gatlin’s voice, they are additionally displayed through her lyrics. Lines such as, “Pockets bigger than your guns,” and “You say you want the southern stereotype”, paint a clear picture of the type of person she was once with. It’s evident that Gatlin was unappreciated for who she is and her ex-partner’s idea of what is ‘most desirable’ was worth more to them than the authentic person standing before them. The line “I’m split in two” especially stood out to me, as it appeared to highlight the experience of trying to decide between wanting to stick to who you are or follow certain societal expectations / fit in with a certain type of crowd. Gatlin overall has chosen her own path and does not want to follow the shallow, surface-level type of life her ex-partner wants to have, but this experience has created confusion for her when it comes to truly knowing where she’s going next and where she will fit in. As the track plays off of this confusion and uses it to its advantage through sound, creating a moody ambience, Gatlin sings as if this all happened just yesterday. The emotions in this track are raw, personal, and widely identifiable – both in its writing and sound, creating an authentic listening experience for listeners that will keep them wanting more & more. Gatlin is an indie artist based in Nashville, Tennessee. Her music can be described as a mixture of instinctual humanity with daring vulnerability to create musical moments filled with meaning & melody. Gatlin is a multifaceted person and artist, enjoying things like riding motorbikes and wearing leather as well as spreading love to others. Additionally, she is not afraid to be herself and stand her ground. Her music is evident of that, combining confessional lyricism with emotional storytelling. With roots in folk and a wide imagination, her style can be compared with artists such as Phoebe Bridgers and Maggie Rogers. Receiving a feature on TIDAL as the face of “Rising:Folk” with her first releases and a place on Spotify’s “Fresh Folk” playlist, Gatlin continues to focus on releasing more beautiful & honest music. Written By Madison Spies FOLLOW GATLIN: Instagram | Spotify  | Facebook  | YouTube

Delivered ahead of their next studio album, Reavolution , Reaven have released their latest single, "Free Your Mind." A powerful, introspective pop-rock/alt-rock anthem, the track delves into themes surrounding the inner battle we've all faced where emotion clashes with reason. Our hearts often conflict with what our brains tell us, leaving us to feel like we're fighting a war within ourselves while trapped in a mental prison. Reaven captures this dissension perfectly in "Free Your Mind," calling us to the embrace the chaos, let go of control, and liberate ourselves from the confines of our minds. Unyielding and determined, Reaven's "Free Your Mind" is a song steeped in unwavering resolution as the band successfully depicts the narrative's inner turmoil. The track features Reaven's signature rock sound, blending an immersive, exhilarating mix of thrilling guitar riffs, driving rhythms, and gritty, impassioned vocals. Reminiscent of early 2000s pop-rock/alt-rock, Reaven's "Free Your Mind" sounds like a fresh take on hits created by iconic acts like Nickelback , Shinedown , and Finger Eleven , perfect for fans looking for a hint of nostalgia or something excitingly new to add to their playlists. Becoming known as Europe's "new indie-rock sensation," Reaven are proving themselves to be a powerful, stylish force to be reckoned with. The French four-piece, consisting of members Roméo Bassi, Vincent Fernandes, Rudy Bournazel, and André Rocha, have become known for their explosive live performances and compelling vocals as they were favorites at many 2024 music festivals. Already building a loyal fanbase internationally, Reaven enjoyed much success with their album For Tomorrow , hitting the roads for a supporting tour that took them to Japan and across Europe. Showing no signs of slowing down, Reaven are set to release more music and embark on a new tour encompassing Europe, the US, Canada, Latin America, and more. Written By Cheyenne Johnson FOLLOW REAVEN: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube