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Congratulations on the release of your new single “Ocean Tides”! Can you share the story behind this new track and a bit about the songwriting process? Naeev: I wrote Ocean Tides after listening to 22, A Million by Bon Iver. I remember being so obsessed with his lyricism in that album that it made me want to write immediately something too. So I took the acoustic guitar, sat back on my sister’s bed and I played some chords. It was one of the fastest songs I’ve ever written because I was truly inspired, and the whole process felt natural and simple! You mentioned how you wrote your first song at 13 and haven’t stopped since, how did you get your start in music in the first place and what inspired you to write that first song? Naeev: I loved guitars when I was a child, so I asked my dad to buy me a smaller one since I struggled playing the ones we had at home, and then I’ve learnt the first chords thanks to him. Later on I’ve started to get a little better so I wanted to learn more things, and I did through YouTube videos; I just loved playing music. Writing songs has actually always been a thing to me, when I was a child I used to write songs with my friends and my sister for fun, so as soon as I realised I could also write about feelings or stories I wanted to tell, my life completely changed. If you could be mentored by any artist in the world, who would you pick and why? Naeev: I’d definitely pick Taylor Swift, she’s my favourite. She has routed around a lot of different genres while still being pop, but also the whole situation with her precedent albums made me realise that the music industry is hard and sometimes can be very unfair, so I’d need someone who could give me the best advices on how to get the best out of it and make it work, she’s in this industry since she was a kid, she’s experienced. Plus, she’s incredibly good at writing lyrics, which is something I’m super passionate about. What is your favorite thing about performing live? Is there somewhere on your bucket list you hope to perform one day? Naeev: My favourite thing is probably letting my songs have a place where they can live. Playing them in my bedroom will never give me the same energy that a space with an audience has. I love playing full band shows, I still can’t believe people learn my music and dive into it with me, it’s an amazing feeling and it makes me very proud. The one stage I have in mind whenever people ask me where I want to play is called Fabrique, it’s in Milan. I’d love to play there since it’s where I go the most for concerts. My true dream, though, is to tour outside of Italy and to see people singing my songs back to me. What would you say is your proudest moment in your career thus far? Naeev: Making an album in a music studio was surreal to me. I still can’t believe that happened and it’s still happening. Also, having articles written about me on my local newspaper, La Provincia di Como. It was fun seeing my music up there! What can we expect next from you? The album you released last year was STUNNING, I hope another one is in the works!! Naeev: Thank you so much! :) I’m always writing something so don’t worry, I’m gonna make so many more songs, but I l plan on putting out things I can radiate well with! My producer Andrea and I are currently working on finding my true sound, since I’m a mix of pop, folk and alternative. I think with Ocean Tides we made something we’re very proud of, and that’s what we want to reach every time now! Interviewed By Sarah Curry FOLLOW NAEEV:

I love the vibe of ‘Hot N Bothered’, it is so upbeat! What did the songwriting process look like for this song? Melissa: I always wanted to create a sassy y2k inspired anthem. I wanted it to focus on clapping back at unwanted cat calls from men. I knew my talented co-writing friend, Kevin McAleer, would do amazing with this concept. I explained my vision to him and we immediately dove in. We had a blast writing this song together! You are a big advocate for mental health on social media. How has this part of your life and what you have been through influenced your music? Melissa: Since the age of five I suffered from a debilitating case of Body Dysmorphic Disorder. After endless years of seeking treatment a pivotal time finally arose in my life. I was attending one of many outpatient programs, and this one was a long two hour drive away. It was on these car rides to treatment that I discovered something incredible. I found that what gave me hope wasn’t the treatment itself, but driving to get there. I would blast my favorite dance driven tracks sung by my idols Lady Gaga, Christina Aguilera, and Britney Spears, and I would enter another world. I escaped to a place where I would embody the sexy, confident, fearless female I longed to be. I was taken from feeling invisible to feeling invisible. Years have passed since then and I have finally conquered my Body Dysmorphia, but will never forget a key component that helped me heal, music. I now see it as my turn to help others struggling with similar obstacles. I am now on a mission to give back the nostalgic pop anthems that saved my life. Who are some of your biggest inspirations? Melissa: My biggest musical inspirations are mainly female pop artists from the early 2000s. I love Lady Gaga, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, and The Pussycat Dolls. I'm also really inspired by the girl group Little Mix. I love any one that makes fierce girl empowerment anthems! What instruments do you play, if any? Which ones would you like to learn? Melissa: I don’t play any instruments, but I would love to learn guitar and piano. If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be? Melissa: Lady Gaga! She would be my absolute dream collaborator. What is some of the best advice you have received? Melissa: No matter how hard it gets, don’t give up. It sounds cliche but there are so many times I have to remind myself of this. I doubt myself on a daily basis, and worry that I’m just not good enough to succeed in this industry. I constantly have to settle my mind back down and just know that the only way to truly fail is to give up on something you love. As long as I continue to give this everything I have, there is no way I will have regrets. Interviewed By Kendall Koval FOLLOW MELISSA:

“And I fold like I might be made of paper//Been tearing myself into pieces lately.” A perfect metaphor to elicit the anxious feeling of uncertainty in an industry that thrives off of fierce, unpredictable competition and pushing antiquated beauty standards. Sam Casey’s electric song, “Good Fight,” is a journey through her constant battle with doubtful thoughts that is caused by the music industry’s powerful shadow hovering over her. Despite the industry’s thrown punches, Sam Casey fights back with hopeful lyrics in her chorus, “I’m slipping on a downside//I put up a good fight//Hoping it’s the last time//But, if I do fall, sweep it under the carpet.” Sam Casey’s inner anthem should pose as encouragement to those who feel like folding in on themselves. We all go through similar scenarios that force us into a catastrophic breakdown, but it doesn’t mean that has to be our fate every time. “Good Fight” swirls up optimistic emotions that makes you feel as though you have the strength to break through the claustrophobic paper wall that’s been holding you captive. Every artist has their own distinctive sound, and it’s clear that Sam Casey’s is pop with a hint of inspiration from alternative, jazz and blues; especially in her most recent songs, “I’d Rather Go Blind” and “Men In Bars.” Her inclination for raw storytelling on sultry tracks allows her to define herself as a mature songwriter, but it’s in her experimental discography where her true artistry lies. From bluesy jazz all the way to translucent alternative, Sam Casey constantly demonstrates that there isn’t a limit to what one’s musical style can be. Just like her newest single “Good Fight” suggests, sweeping archaic rules and norms under the rug is the only way an artist can continue to flourish to their full potential. She proves this as she showcases her rich vocals to voltaic electric guitars and laser beam synths, making “Good Fight” her most vibrant pop song yet. Sam Casey is a pop singer/songwriter based out of Toronto Canada. Although she began playing music at eight years old and eventually took piano lessons, she didn’t kickstart her artist career until she recorded her first song at fifteen. At this age, she was already showing her resilience when she pushed against gender norms and jumped off a fifty-foot drop from a high rock into a lake in front of a group of hesitant men. She uses this scenario to explain how she views herself in her career: “As a young female artist, I believe that many people expect certain social norms from me that I disagree with.” She’s an artist that isn’t afraid to speak her truth and talk about unpopular subjects, whether that’s about industry toxicity, societal roles, relationship downfalls, or mental illness. Sam Casey is able to take her thoughts and cleverly vent through sassy ballads and daring words—making her a force to be reckoned with. Written By Amanda Palacios FOLLOW SAM CASEY:

A tried and true heartbreak anthem, “BFF” is not about piney feelings over an ex. In her latest release, Hannah Trigwell gets mournfully nostalgic over an old best friend. Music often details the emotional turmoil of the demise of a romantic entanglement, yet generally avoids the uniquely crushing experience of growing apart from your favorite person. Not only does the artist perfectly paint the pain of this devastation, but she also captures the essence of the realization of growing older. The solo minor scaled piano opening coupled with Hannah’s low intensity, anguish-filled vocals soulfully sets the mood for the sorrowful song. Though the power of her voice and the production increases through the progression of the verses, the overall faintness of noise surrounding her voice compliments the theme well. A bittersweet music video accompanies the song, providing a quirky yet weighty insight into the psyche of the lyrics. From busking in Leeds to sold-out tours, Hannah Trigwell has made her artistic impression on the musical community. The UK native has yielded over 150 million YouTube views and maintains an ever-growing online fanbase of 800,000+ listeners. Being just 17 at the emergence of her career, she's accomplished a slew of achievements in the past decade, including having a number 1 charting single and performing on a sold-out tour. Her raw-emotioned, relatable writing fused with her musical talent makes her an artist worth taking note of. Written By Zewdi Cass FOLLOW HANNAH TRIGWELL:

"BLEED" is an R&B track off up-and-coming pop artist ISA's most recent EP. This song is incredibly catchy; just after one listen, I was humming along with this fun track. I personally love this track; there are so many cool influences incorporated. The production is smooth and unique compared to other songs I hear regularly. ISA's vocals are also something I need to touch on; I am always partial to lower-register female voices, and hers is perfect. This song will have you listening to it on repeat and not even getting tired of it. I find myself hearing some early to mid-2000s influences in this track, and it is so addictive to listen to. This song sings about love and relationships. Someone leaves you thinking that you are going to be heartbroken, but it ends up being the other way around. Because you have accepted who you are, whether it is good or not. The lyric "I touch a rose, it ends up dead" really depicts that. You have a one-up on the person, and that is your self-awareness. ISA is a Swedish 24-year-old singer, songwriter, and producer. She has been releasing her music since 2012, making her a true pioneer. In 2015, she released her platinum single, "Don't Stop." She has cited Blink-182 and Eminem as some of her influences for her most recent EP, Anxiety Boulevard. She has an impressive 61,000 monthly Spotify listeners, cementing her legacy and talents. The artist has toured Sweden frequently over the years and has been known for her brilliant stage presence. Written By Emma Kimberli FOLLOW ISA:

The moment this song begins, you are transported to a dark club, surrounded by hundreds of people with fake smiles and empty drinks. They’re all there trying to forget somebody. They’re all there to see and be seen.They’re all there to convince themselves they’re okay. Some are in attendance looking for someone new. Some are in attendance to run into someone old. Many are there to get so drunk they can finally forget. A few are there to remember what it feels like to be happy. The DJ is blasting a song; everyone’s singing; everyone’s dancing, and you pray that for a moment the music will drown out your mind, but the pulsating beats in your chest are reminiscent of a heartbeat racing from passion and adrenaline. You stare at the strobe lights to be blinded for a moment, but when the light flashes on the crowd, you don’t see the one familiar face who makes you feel safe. You take a shot because whiskey has a way of numbing your brain, but when it touches your lips you’re reminded of late night kisses when his lips tasted like ice cold whiskey, and you wanted to drink it forever. You dance with someone new because you’re feeling yourself and he’s cute, but the second he grabs your waist it’s like trying to put the wrong piece in a puzzle. You try to call a ride home but your mind only remembers his 10 digits, and it’s like your fingers have a mind of their own. “Crying on the Dancefloor” by PLENTY is the perfect representation of a heartbroken woman’s night out. Too sad to stay home, not quite ready to be out on the town. Your girlfriends drag you out because they love you, and want to see you having fun, but little do they know the drink you spilled on their shoes is actually the tears pouring from your eyes as you pretend that life is good and you don’t miss him. There’s no recipe for healing a broken heart, but sometimes its better to go out with some good friends, put on a new dress and a fake smile, and dance like yesterday and tomorrow do not exist, even if you’re crying… you’re trying, and thats how we heal ourselves. This catchy 90’s inspired pop ballad carries a gut-wrenchingly relatable message that every scorned woman can relate to. We go out to fill a void, and end up wishing we stayed home when the void expands and consumes us. We drink to forget, only to remember even more. The beginning of the song is reminiscent of when you’re walking into a club, a little too sober, trying to find your way to the bar while over-served bystanders bump into you, and everything feels like it’s moving in slow motion. The beat then picks up like that feeling when you get your first sip of your tequila soda, and you convince yourself this is going to be a good night. Then the captivating backing track livens and consumes you, and you can’t help but move your body, even if that means crying on the dance floor. PLENTY is a Norwegian singer and songwriter. She just graduated from Lillehammer Institute of Music Production & Industries, or LIMPI as it’s widely known, in 2020. She takes music inspiration from the 90’s and early 2000’s era, and she throws in a mix of the pop scene today. Her greatest inspirations are Billie Eilish, Britney Spears, and The Pussycat Dolls. You can see her idols’ influence come alive in her eccentric, compelling songs. She is such a relatable artist, and her lyrics are exact depictions of reality for many young women and men. She is a young artist with an old soul and a lot of life experience. PLENTY is edgy and dynamic, and she makes her listeners feel powerful and seen. Her career began with her debut single “I Don't Wanna Know”, and she released her first EP in 2021. Her music takes us back to the glory days of 90’s pop. She is energetic and simultaneously soulful. She has the voice and message that makes you want to listen. Whether we are singing in our car, dancing in the shower, or crying on the dancefloor, we hope PLENTY is the soundtrack behind it all. Written By Grace Chapman FOLLOW PLENTY:

I can’t get enough of your new single “I Hate You”!! What is the story behind this new track? NBN: Basically, "I Hate You" is a build-up of frustration with a lot of different people in our lives that we had to just let out. The unique thing about it is, we are not guys that like to start conflicts and are peaceful people, so we wanted to show that juxtaposition with the lyrics by making the sonic experience of the song very happy. So it's like a happy and angry song, all at once. How did you guys come up with “Nothing but a Nightmare” as your band name?! NBN: So our singer/guitarist, Eddie's, dad was on the phone with a cellular company, complaining about the service, and so the story goes he said to the person on the phone, "this service has been, 'Nothing but a Nightmare'" and the rest was history. Huge congrats on the release of your new album “The Salvation”!! Can you take us through the journey of making this album and how it came to be? NBN: It was just the best. Having everybody together working on this with a common theme in mind was very nice. We knew we wanted to do pop/punk, and we knew we had a lot of anger and frustration to get off our chests, and this is definitely our best work to this point and we believe it can make people feel something and maybe put some issues they have to bed by listening. If you could be featured in a festival with any two other artists, who would y’all pick? NBN: Panic! at the Disco and Greta Van Fleet, final answer. What would you guys say has been the proudest moment of your careers so far? And what is at the top of your bucket list to accomplish as a band? NBN: Definitely opening for Andy Grammer in 2019, that was the coolest. Just being able to play a show with someone who has been there, and done that was just the best. Also, Andy is just the nicest guy so having his words of encouragement was really unique and awesome for us. Do you guys have anything you want to say to your awesome fan base?! I see on your socials how supportive they are and it’s so cool!!! NBN: We have an awesome fanbase and support system. They support us at every show and listen to the songs all the time, it makes what we do worth it. All we can say is, thank you!! Interviewed By Sarah Curry FOLLOW NBN:

If you’re looking for some nostalgic dance vibes, Sofia Portanet has the track for you. Her latest single “Unstoppable” is a flashy and confident anthem about always getting back up from your setbacks, paired with a lush electronic sound and colorful music video. “Unstoppable” wastes no time bringing out its full instrumental power, opening with a classic drum machine, funk bass line, and synth elements while Portanet’s beautifully harmonized voice sings about being set back to the start of a shattered dream. “I don’t need your money and I don’t need your call / I don’t need a ride on a shooting star” establishes the chorus’s confidence, a theme present for the rest of the song as Portanet’s attitude starts to rub off on you. Even the bridge is filled with a spring in its step, with vocals soaring over the ambient synths that lead right back into the chorus, ending the song at full power. “Unstoppable” features a must-watch music video, with a distinct color palette and nostalgic cinematography that perfectly captures the song’s vibe. Since 2018, this German artist has gained fame all over Europe, and now garners an international audience with each new release. With her 2020 album “Freier Geist” and EP releases from 2018 until now, Sofia Portanet’s unique sound has proven both versatile and successful. Without a doubt, her latest and future releases will only continue to prove that she really is “Unstoppable”. Written By Ari Schweitzer FOLLOW SOFIA PORTANET:

Surely, you've either experienced or daydreamt of the perfectly serendipitous meet cute, the one that we've been force-fed our whole lives, from even childhood films (see: High School Musical) to today's romcoms (see: every Hallmark special ever). What we're never shown is what happens when this whirlwind, by chance romantic entanglement doesn't work out. In her latest single "Dairy Aisle", Jessica Woodlee pleads with life for another chance encounter just to reconnect with an ex. With soulful delivery and meaningful lyrics, the song provides much more than a visual of an awkward exchange while shopping for milk. "Dairy Aisle" has one of those unique sounds that are surely pop-centric yet difficult to categorize. A harmonious, deep bass line introduces the track, followed by clear and quick-wit expressive vocals. As the artist reminisces about her lost love and begs for a new beginning through the chorus, instrumental tempo and her vocal range increase with great intensity, analogous to the emotion of the song. The juxtaposition of grocery puns with passionate lyrics produces a single for both easy-listening and heartfelt singalongs. Drawing inspiration from pop superstars such as Taylor Swift and Maggie Rogers, Jessica Woodle is a multi-piece musician, songwriter, and arranger who's already made a name for herself all while still in college. Impressively, during her time as a student at Berklee College of Music, she has released numerous singles which have been featured on several playlists and radio stations across many platforms, as well as performed at assorted venues in the northeast. As a lifelong musician, her sound has ebbed and flowed into a variable, but always perfect, pop daydream. Written By Zewdi Cass FOLLOW JESSICA WOODLEE:

"Body 2 Body" by Stella Cher Lee, featuring Dante Juhkel, is a sensual and catchy dance-pop song. I am in love with Stella Cher Lee's vocals on this track; everything about them is so captivating and smooth. Dante Juhkel's voice adds another fun layer to this track; it catches your attention as there is a distinct difference between his and Stella's verses. I haven't reviewed a song like this yet, and I am glad this one was my introduction. This piece is absolutely phenomenal and should be added to your playlists. This track reminds me heavily of international pop stars Dua Lipa and Troye Sivan. Especially Troye Sivan's first EP, TRXYE. It almost brings me back to 2014—the beginning of electro-pop. This song is about wanting someone in more than just a romantic way, and it does it with a relaxing and smooth instrumental behind it. You are having intimate moments with someone, and you want to know if they feel the same way about you. The songwriting is smart and concise, which is something that I can appreciate. Stella Cher Lee is a singer, songwriter, and makeup artist. She has posted on her YouTube channel on and off since 2020, posting a wide variety of content. Everything from makeup tutorials to motivational mental health speeches to singing videos She has a separate Instagram from her music where she posts some of her makeup looks, and she is very talented with both music and makeup. She released her freshman album, 2:22, on October 22, 2022. Written By Emma Kimberli FOLLOW STELLA CHER LEE:

Love is oftentimes defined by what you can provide for your partner physically. Expensive dinner dates, large bouquets of flowers, and first class trips to fine, foregin countries are all extravagant ways to express your love towards your romantic partner. In Zach Hood’s latest single, “I ain’t rich, girl”, the singer expresses his inability to provide his lover with the finer things they may hope for; but promises that his love for them is enough to get by. Zach Hood’s “I ain’t rich, girl” establishes that genuine love, respect, and security are key in any true, flourishing relationship. This upbeat pop song tied with Hood’s strong, distinctive vocals, takes a liking to classic pop-rock tracks of the 2000’s with an unique twist. In the line: “We can survive on this ole’ sweet loving”, Zach Hood kicks the idealism found in love songs to the curb and introduces an honest viewpoint that only adds onto his lyricism and personal storytelling. This choice in songwriting and expression pertains to many listeners alike in different ways. For example, it relates to those also unable to fulfill the “fairytale” love story, whilst being a reminder that relationships cannot thrive solely on material. These two perspectives (along with a sweet melody) secures the overall message of the song. That being loved openly and clearly builds the most uniquely beautiful connections. Zach Hood is a singer from Alabama who currently resides in LA. With well over 100m streams on Spotify and 2m+ monthly listeners, Zach Hood has been on a roll ever since signing to Arista Records in 2021. Since then, he has performed at countless festivals, venues, and was even featured on Spotify’s “Pop Rising” and "Radar US". Please check out Zach Hood by clicking on the links below! Written By: Kasey D, FOLLOW ZACH:

‘Night Light’ has such a unique sound to it – I am obsessed! What is the story behind the track? Hailey: Thank you! I love to hear that. It was inspired by a fun but equally rough night when I was still more new to Toronto. It's an amazing playground but also a danger trap at times. Like all things in life, you take the good with the bad. For me, I wanted to focus on the good and continue to manifest goodness for myself through this track. If ‘Night Light’ could be featured in any TV show or movie, which one would you want it to be? Hailey: For whatever reason I feel like it would really fit the vibe for the upcoming HBO show The Idol, but that's not coming out until next year. The trailer looks crazy. How has living in Toronto influenced your music? Hailey: I think living in Toronto has given my sound a more laidback feel. Toronto has given me the space to really learn what I want to become as I go, which I think is powerful. What is one of your favorite memories from performing? Hailey: Any time I look into the crowd and see someone I love. Who have been some of your biggest inspirations? Hailey: Shania Twain, Lady Gaga, and Post Malone are some acts I really, really admire. Can you share anything about upcoming projects? Or goals you have for your musical career? Hailey: At end of the day I would be really happy being a household name in Canadian music. I feel like that would be me reaching my life's purpose for sure. Interviewed By Kendall Koval FOLLOW HAILEY: