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I love the energy of your new song "Soda"! What's the story behind it? ANNNA: Soda is a song about a girl who arrives at the craziest, sunniest summer party. All her friends only drink beer after beer all the time, but she chooses to drink only lemonade. After all, all her friends are already in good shape while she just keeps dancing, because you don't need alcohol to party. It's a pretty literal story about how I haven't been drinking for more than 7 years since I was 17. In those days it was an exception, everyone kept pushing me to "drink one but all the time" but I didn't want to. Now it's different, I don't have a lot of friends around at all, but before that, it was a problem. Mostly immersed in the fact that, unfortunately, alcohol is too common in families in our country (that was my reason for not drinking;)) but that's why I decided to dig up the anthem for my favourite friend: SODA. What first got you into music? ANNNA: I’ve been doing classical piano since I was 6 for like 8 years straight. What got me into it in terms of how it sounds now? The fact that I could not stop having it in my head all the time while doing political studies at the university. I’d come home and just make something on my piano. It's fascinating to think of what you coin as "sustainable pop". How did you decide to go about combining your passion for sustainability and music? Was it an easy concept for you to imagine and then bring to fruition? ANNNA: Well the thing is, I just feel like we’re living in a more ‘plastic’ world day by day. From clothes, to the things we use. I know that there is only so much a tiny individual, aka me, a young musician can do, but if there’s any chance I could raise the attention about what actually is happening, then I’ll do it. And in this case, it’s my music, my Co2 neutral, organic cotton merchandise line that you can find on my website and all the numerous song campaigns that I’ve done about sustainability. It just nowadays comes naturally to me, that I could stuff some very badass/depressing lyrics in a very uplifting, sunny and positive pop song. I guess that’s where it gets interesting to me, especially when people actually understand what my lyrics are about. Hence, the "sustainable pop’’. What are your hopes for this sub-genre you've really pioneered? ANNNA: That one day I’ll be able to make those crazy plans of mine for each song release come true. Literally, not only singing about sustainability, but also doing campaigns and making products that would help make things better. I know you mention you're Latvian-born but are from Amsterdam. What has your experience been like in the music industry there? Do you plan on staying in Amsterdam for a while? ANNNA: Amsterdam is my home, I’ve been here for such a long time that I kinda call myself half-Dutch. I mean, I speak the language daily as well, so it kinda comes with it. It’s a very dreamy city, with lots of great dance music that has definitely influenced my music a lot as well. I started off right before covid, winning the Amsterdam Dance Event’s demolition with my single ’Stardom/Hater’. Since then I’ve been working with so many DJs and producers on stuff that I’ll now release under my other alias: Might Delete Later. Actually, even while typing the answers to this interview at this very moment, I’m sitting in a session with this incredible Dutch producer Millean ( https://www.instagram.com/millean.fm/ ). On your website, it mentions you're currently on tour, with a stop in Latvia. What do you anticipate it will be like to perform in your country of origin? ANNNA: Yes, we’re actually about to do a whole tour there in the summer. We’ll be playing a couple of bigger festivals in Latvia which is so exciting after having basically more than 30 gigs canceled in these 2 crazy years of Covid. So, yup, we’ll be in Latvia in July and we really cannot wait. I also literally just found out that I’ll be the warm-up artist for the American popstar MIMI WEBB at Melkweg, in Amsterdam on the 27th of May. That just seems like a total dream come true. Interviewed By Hannah Conkin FOLLOW ANNNA:

It really is the little things in life that make us the happiest. Sometimes receiving a simple "I love you" text makes us feel more loved and happier than receiving a new phone. In Sophia Grace's new single "Little Things," she blends heartfelt lyricism about those golden moments in life with a cheerful melody to create this upbeat piece. In her song, Sophia reveals that she can't be won over with "fancy clothes" and "expensive cars." She would much prefer for a guy to give her quality time and their undivided attention, the real gifts of love. The message of this piece blends beautifully with the melody. Sophia sings about what she truly desires from a relationship, and pairs this idea with a melody that's sure to brighten you up. The message of this song really is powerful and touches on a topic that is so relevant to today's culture. In today's times, it's so easy to allow materialism to take over. This leads people to tie their self-worth to the number of expensive items they own. With this mindset, it becomes a challenge to show gratitude for the simple pleasures that life has to offer. Sophia gives us a good reminder that material items really are not a measure of anyone's happiness. Pursuing smaller, intangible joys is so much more meaningful. Sophia Grace first gained popularity by posting a cover to Nicki Minaj's "Super Bass" with her cousin Rosie in 2011. In the years following, she released singles such as "Girls Just Gotta Have Fun," "Best Friends" (which found a place on the Billboard Hot 100), and "Girl in the Mirror." Sophia and her cousin had "Tea Time with Sophia Grace & Rosie" on The Ellen DeGeneres Show where she got to interview celebrities such as Miley Cyrus and Taylor Swift. She also starred in her own movie alongside her cousin Rosie in Sophia Grace & Rosie's Royal Adventure. Sophia has been very successful in the entertainment industry and continues to prove that statement with each new content release. Written By Melina Darlas FOLLOW SOPHIA GRACE:

Your new single "Breakaway" is a powerful song about prioritizing yourself and leaving a relationship. Did you write this after a personal experience or did you take inspiration from a general narrative? Martha May: To be completely honest, it was a personal experience. Breakaway is the first song that I have ever written actually, and I find it very connected to that specific experience. Back then, I still haven't seriously thought of myself as a songwriter, but the difficulty of my situation made me think of writing things down, not expecting anything of it. The state of my relationship and thoughts of breaking up were really sad, but as I sat down with my guitar and tried to write, the entire positive side of letting things go came up, and that's how Breakaway was born. Seeing my situation in a different light, Breakaway helped me choose myself! So after seeing how writing a song can heal you, I just had to keep doing it:) On your website you mention you're from Croatia. What was the transition to the UK like for you? Did you perform much in Croatia before moving to the UK? Martha May: Yes, I have moved to the UK at the age of 18, to pursue my love for music and theatre. Starting my undergraduate studies in Musical Theatre in Chichester, UK, I have to say it was quite a big change for little me. Being away from home for the first time, I have to admit it took me a couple years to figure out what it is that I really want. Ending my second year of doing Musical Theatre, I started noticing I was more excited about singing pop music than anything else. I flew to Croatia to spend my summer there, and started singing sets of covers in local touristic restaurants with a guitarist. This job was something I really enjoyed, so I did it next summer too. Doing that job made me see myself as a pop artist, and not long after I started writing my own songs. Looking at it all now, I think both the UK and Croatia, helped me become an artist that I am today. How do you balance being in graduate school with your music career? Martha May: It is actually quite simple, because I am doing a Master's Degree in Popular Music Practice, so naturally my career and my school are intertwined. I have chosen my course because I wanted to learn all about the Music industry, releasing music and building my brand and fan base as an artist. So far I have gotten a lot of music knowledge at my school, and I am using it to the best of my power in all my music projects. The good side of it is that I can then use those projects (songs, performances, collaborations) as part of my exams portfolio! What has been your most memorable live performance? Martha May: Wow, good question. As I have just recently started performing in a full band setting, it seems to me that every new gig I play is the best I have ever done haha. But as a truly special experience, I would point out my recent performance at The New Noise Festival in The Old Blue Last in London. That one I am especially proud of because the event was put on by my BIMM colleagues and myself as a part of our module. It felt super special to participate in creating the event from scratch and then also perform my music as a part of it to a very excited and supportive audience! What is your songwriting process like? Martha May: I have to be fully honest with this one, I am not entirely sure. It is always different. Sometimes I play with chords on the guitar or ukulele, and the melody and lyrics simply follow, but sometimes I'll have a melody stuck in my head and I just have to find lyrics suitable for it. As I consider myself to be a "newbie" songwriter, I believe there is so much more for me to learn and explore in terms of songwriting. Where do you see your career going after you've finished your program at Fulham's BIMM college? Martha May: I see myself building a name for myself as a pop artist, and not much else really ahaha. I plan to release a lot more music quite soon, and I believe that will open more music possibilities for me. I intend to stay in London after I graduate, keep performing live, writing and releasing music, to show the world (and myself) what my music is all about. Interviewed By Hannah Conkin FOLLOW MARTHA:

“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” Wayne Gretzky said that, and the phrase can apply to many scary situations. Dating is definitely one of them. You work up the nerve to put yourself out there for that special person. If fear holds you back, they will never know how amazing you are. There is also potential for them end up with someone else. In “Just My Type,” Kyle Hume takes the plunge by confessing his feelings of love in a song. The guitar in the song is light and happy and has a rooftop party song sound. While listening to it, I wanted to wave my hands in the air. Hume's vocals have the nostalgic sound of a 2000's punk/rock band. Putting your feelings into words can be hard, but Hume expresses his emotions very clearly through the lyrics. The story of the lyrics does not seem to have an ending. I want to know if Hume’s hard work paid off. At just 23 years-old, Kyle Hume is an artist and producer. He has a combined total of 1.8 million followers on his social media platforms. If you enjoyed “Just My Type,” Hume writes many other songs about being young and in love. In contrast to “Just My Type,” “If I Would Have Known,” is a song about a break-up. The instrumentation is predominantly just his vocals and piano meaning that the listener gets to hear even more emotion. Written By Kelli Dixon FOLLOW ARTIST:

Confucius, an ancient Chinese philosopher, once said: “Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it.” With seemingly unattainable beauty standards, this phrase is less true in today’s world. We see models on the glossy pages of Vogue and spend a pretty penny on makeup to look as beautiful as them. In her song “Tightrope,” Kelaska writes about how today’s high beautiful standards have affected her life. In the song, she puts all her negative feelings on table. What’s even better is that she rises above these feelings and embraces her true self. Kelaska’s vocals are a huge wow factor to the song. Her voice is smooth, so you can really hear the story of the lyrics and the emotions involved shine through. Additionally, I liked how Kelaska’s vocals flow with the instrumentation. A second aspect of the song that I liked was the progression. From the first verse, the music sounds calm and slow. When Kelaska sings, “I’ll never be who they want me to be,” an electric guitar starts and the music speeds up. It sounds angry, but it stays tasteful and suits the song very well. Kelli Wright (AKA Kelaska) was born and raised in Connecticut. She acquired over 30,000 YouTube subscribers when she started posting cover songs on her channel. Her hard work paid off when she was included on People magazine’s “Ten Cover Song Pros You Should Be Following on Instagram” list. Kelaska has since started writing her own music. Her song, “Smother Me,” is a song that has an angry mood similar to “Tightrope.” She sings about being too much in love. It is no surprise that the track exceeded 100,000 streams during the first few months of its release. Written By Kelli Dixon FOLLOW KELASKA

I am genuinely obsessed with your new single, “Hide and Seek”! What is the story behind this new track? LIAS: Thank you! It’s the third track on my EP Run Boy Run that deals a lot with the pain of separation and my fight for mental health. The songs tell stories of deep sadness, losing sight and broken relationships, but also paving my way back to a more resilient and confident self. Musically, Hide and Seek is exactly that escape. With spherical melancholy and an empowering drive, I want the song to pull us into a space of hope, light and ease. What made you finally decide to take the big step into making your own music and performing? LIAS: From early on, music was already a part of my life. I received classical vocal training as a boy soloist and already had the opportunity to perform with great singers and musicians on the world's biggest stages. But as I grew older, however, I felt the desire to break out of the conservatism of this classical world and my upbringing. The first liberating steps led me to songwriting. But becoming a musician was never really on the agenda until I moved further and further away from that idea. It was only through detours via investment banking, music management and the Berlin start-up scene that I realized: music is my life. Your music taps into such important topics, such as mental health and the fear of failure, and I really admire that! Why do you choose to feature these topics? LIAS: Thank you for saying that. I personally think these topics get way less focus than they need to. Especially mental health. Admitting that you are not well mentally – or even that you didn’t succeed at something – is still very stigmatized, especially in Germany where I grew up. But the second you open up about what bothers you and talk about it, you help yourself and also offer something to other people to connect to. That’s what I try to do with my songs. To know that you are not alone already offers relief. After all, the fear of vulnerability is outweighed by the beauty of connection. I know you’ve performed in some amazing places with some incredible people, but what has been your favorite performance you’ve had so far? And which are you most proud of? LIAS: What a mean question haha, it’s like picking your favorite child…:P All in all, I feel very lucky and humbled to have been able to experience such great musical moments. One of the most memorable ones was definitely when the audience at one of my first gigs ever in Munich started singing my song “Home” with me. That had never happened before and it really hit me by surprise. It was very emotional for me What is one of your bucket list items when it comes to your career? Any artists you hope to collaborate with or places you’d love to perform? LIAS: What I want most is to be able to continue to make music with amazing people and create moments of connection. Right now one of my favorite artists to listen to is LEÓN because she embraces the feeling of melancholy like no other. It would be amazing to work with her some day. What do we have to look forward to from you the rest of the year? Can’t wait to hear more :) LIAS: There is one more single coming out on the 20th of May called “Need Me Now” wrapping up the release of my first studio EP. I’m very much looking forward to that. I also can’t wait to play these songs from the EP in concerts and go back to the studio to record some new ones as well. One thing is sure: it will definitely be a very musical 2022! :) Interviewed By Sarah Curry FOLLOW LIAS:

“Sell Your Soul” is a moody and intense alt-rock jammer about the all-consuming passion that one feels. Maybe this passion is for a person, maybe it’s for a hobby, maybe it’s for music. But sometimes, we feel so strongly about the things that we care about that we might, literally, sell our own souls. It’s a common trope for musicians to joke about; gaining innovative and genre-bending talent and ideas by selling their soul to the devil, but in a way, now, selling your soul could mean partnering up with larger labels who care more about the profit you generate than the landscapes you’re experimenting with. Quinn’s voice is velvety but throaty, bellowing out and soaking the entire song with her raw emotions. She crafts delicate but weighty narratives around the frustration of not being perfect and subsequent contemplation of putting all of your eggs in one basket. To pursue your passion down to the ends of the Earth. Quinn’s voice and the instruments perfectly match each other, taking over the melody and harmony with a moment for each to shine. Her voice beckons and calls before stepping back and letting the bass solo speak for itself, crafting the atmosphere and soundscapes of the song. Tatum Quinn, a 24-year-old pop-rock singer-songwriter, studied at the Berklee College of Music. Her bubbly and unique image differs from her raspy and emotive performances, bringing an edge to her bright persona. Opening for bands like Kool & the Gang, The Pointer Sisters, and April Wine, Quinn feels at home on the stage, belting her lungs out. With her music being featured in Just Dance, Quinn is determined for her music to be relatable; to craft a narrative and bring excitement to the everyday emotions and routines that people circulate in. Quinn’s bubbly image isn’t going anywhere, and it really only heightens her musical style as she carves out a name for herself in the pop-rock genre. Written By Megan Cao FOLLOW TATUM:

Claustrophobia is defined as the extreme and irrational fear of confined spaces. In the real world, places like elevators and tunnels can make someone with claustrophobia feels uncomfortable. The easiest way thing to do is avoid these spaces when possible. But what happens when your mind makes you feel claustrophobic? Everything is closing in, and it can feel as though you’re drowning in your own thoughts. In her new song ‘Claustrophobia’, Cupid Girl is struggling to keep herself afloat mentally. The walls are caving in, and her head is getting pulled under. She’s claustrophobic, she’s drowning, and she’s not sure how much longer she can keep going. There is something about Cupid Girl’s vocals that evoke the listeners emotions when listening to ‘Claustrophobia’. Her lyrics are honest about her struggles, and her vocals reflect her honesty. The listener can tell Cupid Girl is speaking from somewhere deep inside of herself. Her emotion is so powerful it cannot be fabricated. Pairing the emotional lyrics with an instrumentation that reflects these emotions really draws a listener in. There are several portions of the song where Cupid Girl lets the instruments take over, creating these emotional moments without having to say anything. This song is a perfect example of letting the music do the talking. Even when Cupid Girl isn’t singing, the music does an exemplary job at showcasing her complex emotions. ‘Claustrophobia’ is heartbreakingly beautiful and a true testament to Cupid Girl’s skill. Norwegian artist Cupid Girl is relatively new to the music scene. Releasing her first single in 2021, the young artist has recently released her first EP. The five song EP, titled ‘Stages of Healing’, was released in mid-2022 and includes ‘Claustrophobia’ as the fourth track. Based off of what she’s already released, Cupid Girl is an artist to keep an eye out for! Listen to ‘Claustrophobia’ and the rest of ‘Stages of Healing’ on Spotify. Written By Maddy Mahady FOLLOW CUPID GIRL:

“(I’m) Better Now” is an empowering hit single that is meant to be for after you’ve moved on from someone in your past. Sianon says that she wrote this song to help her through a break up. This tune is meant to make listeners think back on their relationships and then realize how far they’ve come since heartbreak. So often, after a breakup we feel lost– we don’t know how to be ourselves anymore. “Better Now” perfectly encapsulates the feelings of finally moving on and rediscovering who you are. It’s a song about new beginnings and working on yourself. Doing the things that you want to do for you until you realize that you’ve grown so much the hurt of a relationship is gone. It’s a great reminder that sometimes, you can be better off on your own just doing you. The overall vibe of “(I’m) Better Now” is very chill. Combining synths and drum set with a moderate tempo, the tune just has a very relaxed kind of air to it. It’s not a song you want to be blaring through speakers but rather one you want to listen to with earbuds to get the full chill effect of the message and song. I think the fact that it has more of a repetitive melodic bass line makes this song so carefree. It’s almost as if the beats and instrumentation reflect the message that is trying to have that same carefree energy. Almost as is to say “hey, look at me, I’m better without you and I don’t care about it anymore, I’ve moved on.” I think the smooth vocals and music definitely have a way of reflecting this. Sianon (pronounced Shannon), is widely versed in the world of music having taught herself to play both piano and guitar at age 13. She says she is a strong advocate of great pop music having grown up listening to Avril Lavigne and Westlife. Sianon began writing her own songs and performing in public at open-mic nights in Dudley. From there, while in university, she continued to gain a reputation and following as a live performer. In 2019 she began her pop music career, drawing inspiration from artists like those that she grew up with as well as other artists like Taylor Swift. Her music style is built from a combination of pop artists, which makes her have a unique and recognizable sound. Go check out Sianon’s latest album, “Now That It’s Over”, where “(I’m) Better Now” is featured! Written By Emily Hancock FOLLOW SIANON:

Have you ever felt like life hasn’t been going your way? Like there’s that one day where there’s just a string of bad luck and nothing’s working out. That feeling is what ‘Losing Streak’ is all about. “Did I really think that I could win? All my life, I’ve been treated like a freak.” (Okay, sidebar because WOW. I did not expect to be called out for my past insecurities today. It was unwarranted, but I’m not mad about it!) This somber topic is juxtaposed by an upbeat production that replicates trying to find the bright spots in a dreary place. It’s also super relatable for anyone who’s been longing for better days. “Brilliant!” is all I have to say about the storytelling here. You’ve got this depiction of a relationship where neither side is noticing how badly the other wants them. They never noticed each other’s signals, and both were left completely heartbroken. The voices of Maël & Jonas and Felicia Lu take turns giving you a passionate, soul-stirring conversation about their past. The electro-pop production style provides a significant tonal contrast to this. Subtle trap influences combine with cool guitar riffs to really build the energy within the song. Now this is a summer anthem to remember! ‘Losing Streak’ is a collaboration between prominent German artists Felicia Lu and Maël & Jonas, as well as Austrian producer Aron Matthews. Lu, now based in Vienna, has competed on the popular Eurovision song contest twice and has garnered immense support for her radio-worthy singles. She also pens and produces her own music, in addition to being a phenomenal singer. The duo Maël & Jonas finished in third place in The Voice of Germany and have gone on to find great success with their releases. What I love about these artists is their vivid lyricism that seems to come so naturally to them. So much so, that you can easily put yourself in their shoes. You’ll really feel seen by their music! Written By Kevin Rodriguez FOLLOW FELICIA: FOLLOW ARON: FOLLOW MAEL & JONAS:

"There's a chance we can make it; there's a risk we can take it; just keep holding on; gotta keep holding on" are the words that total up the chorus and bridge on Pattern Pusher's hot new single titled "Holding On" which is a song that is lyrically conscious of being able to challenge yourself and letting go of the shit that you are holding very tightly onto. Those lyrical themes of "good times" and the "good life" in retro genres of music show up here big time. YOU JUST GOTTA LET LOOSE A BIT IN LIFE! THEY MAY NOT BE FROM LA BUT THIS SONG IS SUNNY & FUNKY! I love the retro 70s disco vibe that shows up on both the production and the vocals with the different aspects of the song's structure building up over those layers including the chorus and bridge being highlights. The funky wah guitar fits so damn good here and the drums are super lo-fi and lowkey yet they have that retro swing/rhythm which is awesome! The vocals are at a high volume in range and at a high tempo which shows how much Pattern Pusher can integrate vocals into the instrumentation very well. GRAB ME MY TUXEDO ON THE DANCE FLOOR! Pattern Pusher is an inseparable trio that hails from the UK whose style emulates those retro genres of disco, funk, soul AND even elements of psychedelia and indie music being incorporated. Since 2017, the guys have been creating singles, touring, creating music videos AND so much more that they will keep continuing to do at the level of a true musician. They also have a blog on their band's website that I recommend you check out! Go give these guys a shot! Written By Miles Tutor FOLLOW PATTERN PUSHER:

Congratulations on releasing the new song of the summer with your new single, “Turn Out Fine”! Can you tell us what the inspiration behind this song is? MIchael: We are all at points in our life where we are making big changes. Graduating college, relationships, trying to find places to live/jobs, whatever it may be, it's scary! Even though life seems to be going right in so many ways, it feels like it's up in the air. This song, although written over a year ago, feels like it is making the most since now to us. Turn Out Fine will be the perfect summer anthem for your crazy, exciting life. How did you two meet? And what made you come together to start a band? Ben: We met in jazz band in middle school. We sat by each other because we both played saxophone. Both of us loved soloing and improvising in jazz band. In highschool we formed a garage band with four other friends and we played at local events. After highschool, we went to different colleges. I went to UW Platteville for construction management and Michael went to UW Oshkosh for music education. While I was at Platteville, I was working on producing music every night by myself. After a while, I got sick of making music by myself and thought it’d be way more fun to work on music with someone. In February 2019, I facetimed Michael and asked if he wanted to make this a duo. Who are some of your biggest influences for your music? I really love the vibe y’all have going on! Ben: We are heavily influenced by Surfaces, AJR, Quinn XCII, Jon Bellion, Chelsea Cutler, Jeremy Zucker, The Chainsmokers etc. In general, we love finding new artists and try to take inspiration from a wide variety of genres. What is your favorite live gig you’ve had so far? Also, congrats on the opportunity to open for Bryce Vine next month, that’s awesome! Michael: We played a sold out show in Green Bay, Wisconsin. 150 people bought tickets to come see us and it was truly amazing. To think that many people knew every word to our songs made it our favorite show yet. The energy was like nothing we have experienced before. Can’t wait to play in Green Bay again! What moment in your career are you most proud of so far? Ben: For me, hearing our song “Overthinking” for the first time on the radio was crazy. Both Michael and I really take pride in that song because we made that in Michael’s parents' spare bedroom. It goes to show that anyone can make radio-quality songs from anywhere with minimal equipment. What can we expect from you guys the rest of the year? So hyped to hear more!! Ben: We are working on a lot of new songs. Expect an EP, and a LOT more shows! Interviewed By Sarah Curry FOLLOW THE ASTRONOMERS: