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Photography: Ben Cope Makeup: Veronica Sinclair Hair: Marya Kivi “Suffocating” is the newest single from Anna Duboc , a song detailing how someone feels while in a relationship with a toxic partner. Priorities and feelings are a one-sided conversation in this relationship, as Duboc describes this person in a way that shows they are not fit to be someone’s significant other. The perspective of the other person is that of feeling trapped and unable to escape their partner’s ways. They are made to feel bad by someone who doesn’t love them and is hurting them. They love their partner, and they can’t understand why their feelings aren’t reciprocated, and is willing to put up with being in this relationship if there’s a chance this could happen. “Suffocating” begins as a piano ballad that conveys the emotion in the lyrics with each key pressed on the instrument. The chords are arranged in a beautiful way that is transformed into a lovely melody. After the first chorus, drums are introduced that shift the single into a more indie pop-sounding song. Duboc is an amazing singer; her harmonies on “Suffocating” are amazing and she is fantastic at belting and changing octaves. The song ends on an acapella note, with Duboc's vocals overlapping in a very enchanting manner. The main genres of this song can be categorized as not only indie pop but also easy listening, all the while exuding power and elegance. Anna Duboc is a musician and actress. She began her music career in August 2019 with her debut single “Feel the Glow”. In September 2021, she released her debut EP Beautiful Nightmare . Duboc has released other incredible music in addition to her EP and “Suffocating” and “Feel the Glow”, including “Plot Twist”, “Fire”, and “Cherry Pick”. She is very popular on social media, part of which is due to her role in the musical Chicago . She has done live performances of her music before, such as at The Mint and The Hotel Cafe in Los Angeles, California. Anna Duboc is so talented and creative and amazing at all things music and acting! Written By Ashley Adams FOLLOW ANNA DUBOC: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Have you ever been so giddy over someone that any cheesy love song is your top listen. Blasting it in the car, shower, gym, etc. because your heart is bursting over someone every second. Teenage Joans came out with the perfect song for this scenario. “Sweet and Slow” is their new pop-punk single about choosing the same person over and over again without question. It captures that 2000’s energy we are all nostalgic for with electric guitar and drum beats that have you up and dancing in seconds. It’s every Disney Channel romcom that we binge watched in adoration wrapped into and 2 minutes and 55 second banger. The pop genre has had so many hits over the past few years and “Sweet and Slow” is no exception. Teenage Joans is name of the insanely talented duo comprised of Tahlia Borg and Cahli Blakers. Tahlia is a vocalist as well as drummer and Cahli is a vocalist and guitarist. Together they are a pop-punk powerhouse creating tracks that are unapologetically them. I read an interview they did and they mentioned how “Sweet and Slow” was such a fun song to write. The two collaborated with Jayden Seely and the energy in the room had them flowing through the writing process with ease. The track is genuinely so witty with a sonic edge that satisfies all the right parts of your brain. If you’re head over heels and down bad, give this one listen and I guarentee you’ll be as obsessed with it as the person you’re stuck on. Teenage Joans made their first stage appearance in 2018 and have continually brought their charm and punk spirit in everything they do. Since their debut single “By the Way” in 2019 they have grown their discography and collected a passionate and supporting audience. The duo has shared the stage with big names such as Foo Fighters, Sleeping with Sirens, Sum 41 and Amy Shark. In their debut year they performed at the Laneway Festival which is an insane accomplishment for new artists. In 2021 they earned the title “Best Punk Artist” of South Australia and because of their persistent hard work, they’ve held onto it since. It’s no surprise Teenage Joans has been dominating the scene with their unique and comforting sound. They are bound to go far in this industry and I can’t wait to watch their continual growth. If you loved “Sweet and Slow” be sure to watch the music video and follow Teenage Joans links down below to keep up to date with future releases. Written By Emylee Herring FOLLOW TEENAGE JOANS: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

While growing up is an exciting time in everyone’s life it’s also something that can be really scary and upsetting. We go from knowing the same group of people all throughout our younger and early adult years. Then those same friends scatter to different parts of the world whether it's for college or starting a new career outside of school. While memories are with us for a lifetime, they aren’t the same as actually being in each other’s company.  As we grow older and lose touch with some of our best friends or even past significant others, the thought of going back in time for just a few hours never leaves our minds. Eric Walker released his brand-new single on March 14, 2025, titled “Moments.” A track that makes you reminisce about those you used to know and hold onto each and every one of those beautiful, funny, sad and adventure filled memories. The song opens up with a feeling that I can only describe as this is going to make you sit and ponder about your past life. The melody is so gentle and slow paced but also has that feel good vibe to it. Then come his vocals that are epically warm and tender with lyrics like “Look at these moments we had / Is it too late to go back?” and “Too scared of growing up.” I found the lyrics to be something really special not only through the way he sang but because they were so real and raw. You could just feel how personal this track is to the artist and really shows a side to growing up that no one tells you about. This song made me feel so many emotions but the main one I want to highlight here is that life is way too short, so spend every possible moment you can with those you love because you never know when it might be the very last time.   Eric Walker is a singer/songwriter from Hampshire located in the United Kingdom. His musical talents started in 2018 with his first single release titled “Hold My Breath.” Since then, he has released regularly showcasing his amazing heartfelt vocals blended with a sound of EDM and soft rock. His musical skills have reached many, leaving him with the greatest pleasure of having four of his songs reach the biggest songs of the year on The South Coast Music Chart in 2024. His most recent single “Moments” is a lovely track, released on his 30th birthday which signifies moments in his life that have made him the person he is today.  Be sure to check out the links below and stay tuned for what else this incredible artist has in store for us next.   Written By Julissa Garcia FOLLOW Eric Walker: Instagram   | Spotify | Facebook  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

Music streaming on Digital Service Providers has only been around since the beginning of the 21st century, and yet, there is much history about royalty payments paid out to artists. Many people know about how these services pay relatively little per stream in comparison to physical sales or downloads, but how did we get to the point where we are today? Let’s take a look! Image obtained from Mojo Audio To begin, I want to talk about what royalties actually are. A royalty is a payment made to an owner of an asset for the use of said asset. Royalties are a derivative of copyright, which is included in the U.S Constitution. Every song has two kinds of copyrights: the underlying musical composition and the master sound recording. The underlying musical composition is what is written by the songwriter and composers, like the lyrics and instrumentals. The master sound recording, on the other hand, is the physical recording of the song. So, the owners of the underlying musical composition and the master sound recording get royalties each time the song is licensed or used. However, copyright protections do expire. Currently, copyright protections (for works made before January 1st, 1978) last for the life of the author plus 70 years. If there are multiple authors, the 70 years would only begin once the last composer dies.  Image obtained from Wall Street Mojo To understand how streaming royalties were set up, I do want to briefly discuss royalties prior to streaming. Congress enacted the first mechanical copyright law in 1909, which meant that artists could get paid for the physical production of their work. At this time, mechanical copyrights were used for piano rolls, but this progressed into vinyl records, cassettes, and CDs. However, when streaming became another method of music consumption, it became a problem. The music being played wasn’t being physically created, so how would the copyright owners get royalties? Congress enacted the Digital Performance Right in Sound Recordings Act , which allowed the owners to get paid for these digital uses. Image obtained from Unified Manufacturing The next big stride in streaming royalty payments was the Music Modernization Act of 2018 . The act addressed problems with compensation and streamlined the process for audio-only, on-demand streaming, such as Spotify and Apple Music. There had long been calls for increases in royalty payments from streaming (and there still are), and the act addressed that problem. However, the act did much more. It created the Mechanical Licensing Collective , which helps issue blanket licenses, which are a singular license that grants you access to a large catalog of music.  It created a public database of songs, license owners, and the percent of ownership. The database matches the writers to their compositions and sound recordings for royalty payments It allowed for producers and engineers to get royalties for their additions to the underlying musical composition and the master recording. The reasons for the creation of the act include: Streaming was driving the vast majority of the growth in the music industry. According the to the RIAA (the Recording Industry Association of America), streaming accounted for 84% of recorded music revenue in 2023 , roughly 14.4 billion dollars It was a complex process for streaming services to get individual licenses from all the composers. With the Music Modernization Act, it created a blanket license,, which streamlines the process of licensing There were attempts to make a database similar to the MLC called the Global Repertoire Database (GRD). However this failed due to political reasons. Image obtained from the Recording Academy So, what’s happened since then? A bill, titled the Living Wage For Musicians Act , was introduced into the House in March of this year, which aims to bypass the middlemen (aka record labels) in royalty payouts. The goal is to increase the royalty payments to one cent per stream, as opposed to the fraction of a cent that streaming royalty rates are currently set as. These payments would be funded by a 50% fee added to every subscription. However, this fund of money to the artist is not a replacement to the current royalty payment system, but a supplement. In addition, the bill would also establish a cap on royalty payments for songs that get over 1 million streams a month. Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich) and Jamaal Bowman (D-NY) collaborated with Damon Krukowski, an organizer of the Union of Musicians and Allied Workers , to draft the bill. It is currently under review by the House Committee on the Judiciary.  Image obtaine d from the United Musicians and Allied Workers Streaming services themselves have also responded to the calls for higher streaming rates. Spotify introduced a new model in 2023 that would require tracks to obtain at least 1000 streams per year to get royalties. This is more in response to the great abundance of AI-generated tracks on streaming services, but this new model was also designed for artists who generate a substantial amount of engagement. Deezer, in collaboration with Universal Music Group, created a similar model that would increase revenue for tracks with over 1000 streams a month for 500 different artists.  These actions have all received mixed reviews from industry professionals and artists alike. The issue of streaming royalty payments is one that has become increasingly complex. In order to raise revenues for artists, it will most likely come out of the consumer’s pockets. To find this balance isn’t easy, but I hope that in the future we can find a way to properly compensate musicians that add so much to our lives. Written By Lauren DiGiovanni Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

Los Angeles born, pop singer/songwriter, producer and engineer, SOZI has released her highly anticipated debut EP, "BLOOM", the first of a 4-part Seasons themed project, starting off with Spring. TRACKLIST Seconds Fall Away Just For A Minute Set Me Free SOZI grew up in a musically inclined family, always singing and dancing, finding joy in the world of arts and entertainment. She began taking classical piano training and lessons at the age of 7, and then started her songwriting journey at only age 10. In 2019, she released her debut single, "Drinking For Two", but it wasn't until 2022 when she released her next single, "Summer Views" that her career as an artist really kickstarted. Ever since, she has been consistently releasing original music and performing all over the United States, performing at well-known stages and festivals. Her 2023 single, "Never Fade" was featured on Netflix 's hit reality TV show, Love Is Blind . The "BLOOM" EP is one part of a four piece project. Themed within the seasons, "BLOOM" represents Spring, exploring themes of transformation, freedom, and the ability to become ones true self. A release party was hosted by SOZI for this EP, called The Bloom Experience , which was held at the Madeline Garden in Pasadena. Featuring an intimate, acoustic performance of the EP and an afternoon tea party, a beautiful moment was created in celebration to not only welcome new music, but to welcome Spring. Let's check out these songs! Seconds The EP starts with "Seconds", a song about fleeting time and the anxiety that comes along with not taking advantage of it to the best of your ability. Time just seems to keep moving faster and faster these days; and everyone tries to tell us to enjoy our lives while we're still young, but how can you when it feels like there isn't enough time to? These are supposed to be the best years of our lives, but a lot of us feel stuck without a clue how to shake the stress while the rest of the world just seems to move on like it's nothing. It's like you're almost paralyzed with fear of missing out, but all this time you spend worrying, the more time you lose when you could be trying to do things that make you happy. "Seconds" has an energetic, fast-paced pop beat, matching the ticking time bomb mood of the story, with shimmering synths, smooth electric guitar and a groovy bassline. Fall Away Next, we have "Fall Away", a beautiful, folk inspired song about letting go of the past. The song has bright, heavenly plucked strings that draw you in immediately. It builds with a clap / tambourine rhythm mixture, background vocals and heavy reverb to create this gorgeously ethereal atmosphere. "Fall Away" focuses on the topic of recognizing that you're not the same person that you used to be, and that is okay. You have to let go of that person, and let yourself be who you are now, or you'll never be able to grow and feel like your one true self. Clinging onto the past will only hold you back in life. It can be easier said than done, but once you finally move on, you will feel like a weight has been lifted off your shoulders, and you can finally breathe again; that's what the song "Fall Away", sounds like to me - a deep breath of fresh air. Like everything is going to be okay. Just For A Minute "Just For A Minute" is a commercial pop bop that we can all relate to. With a sliding synth bass, crashing drums and an addicting melody, this song has what I like to call a feel good soundscape. The mood and vibes are very positive in a way that are meant to lift your spirits up, even if the topic itself isn't necessarily the happiest. "Just For A Minute" is about wanting to escape all the dark, negative, stressful noise that goes on inside of your head. Even if it was just for a minute, that's all you'd need just to feel some sense of relief from that daily self-struggle. SOZI created a fun way to cope with these type of feelings, because this song is so easy to sing along to. The chorus lists off things that SOZI would do if she could just have one moment in time do to anything she wanted, even if it's the most wild and crazy thing you can think of. I already had the chorus stuck in my head after one listen! This song is a reminder that you're not alone. Set Me Free Last, but certainly not least, we close out the EP with the track "Set Me Free". This song has a unique mixture of dark pop & folk, with a groove that draws you in immediately. It's tone is both empowering, yet haunting at the same time, with a very cinematic atmosphere. It definitely gives you chills down your spine. The mixture of strings, drums and SOZI's vocals paired with the variety of rhythms keep you on your toes. "Set Me Free" is about not letting the world hold you down anymore, and recognizing the strength you have as an individual. It's time to reclaim your power, and set yourself free from the chains that you've let others tie you down with. SOZI really hit the nail on the head with this one. After years of releasing singles, this debut EP is a wonderful introduction to something bigger. These songs are more beautiful than I could've ever imagined they could be. The concept of this 4-part project is so exciting, and after listening to "BLOOM", I am so eager to hear what is yet to come. It so perfectly represents Spring with it's fresh, clean, empowering soundscapes and themes. SOZI's songwriting and unique voice captures you so effortlessly. There is still so much more to hear from SOZI, so make sure to follow her below on her socials to keep updated on what and when is next! Written By Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW SOZI: Instagram | Twitter | 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.

PRETTY EVIL by Ellise via Genius Lyrics Ellise has been one of my favorite artists to watch these past few years. As a lover of all things dark and mysterious, I fell in love with her music the moment I heard “Nightmares” (which was featured in my Top 13 Spooky Songs for Halloween article). When she announced her latest album, PRETTY EVIL ,  I marked my calendar for my most anticipated project of 2025. The album explores the dark side of relationships, from infatuation and desire to manipulation and betrayal. Elise holds nothing back, making PRETTY EVIL my latest obsession— and my most-played album of March despite only being released 3 days before April. Track List PRETTY committed for life cherry on top leech dead2me feel better together dead girl dreaming runaway bride ballerina bite valentine EVIL About Ellise Ellise is a dark-pop singer-songwriter based in Los Angeles. She moved to the area at 17 to pursue her career. Since then, she has made incredible waves in the industry. In just her first year, she was selected for the UPROXX Uncharted series to work with producer Chris Seefried to craft her first single, “Break Down.” The same year, she was a finalist in the 2016 iHeartRadio Rising Star Competition. In 2018, she released her debut EP, Can You Keep A Secret?  In 2021, she released her debut album, Chaotic. She has collaborated with artists such as Iggy Azalea, Savage Ga$p , and my personal favorite, Mothica , and DeathbyRomy , in a remix of Ellise’s song, “Soul Sucker.”  With two full-length albums and two Eps, Ellise is known best for her haunting dark pop and Halloween-themed tracks that fuel the inner dark side of listeners. Follow her on all socials to stay up to date with new music and announcements! PRETTY Ellise immediately sets the tone for the album with the lead track, “PRETTY.” The song starts off slow and soft with a shimmering instrumentation that emulates a fairytale. Almost abruptly, the song switches to a heavy and mysterious soundscape paired with Ellise’s dark imagery. This instrumental change exemplifies the lyricism of “PRETTY.”  The track starts with Ellise describing her “little fantasy” with her muse, dreaming of white picket fences and marriage before “the sweetest whispers turn to screams,” and her whimsical fantasy is shattered. This clever production is the perfect start to a witty and complex album. committed for life “committed for life” is an infectious pop track about Ellise’s overwhelming obsession with her latest muse. She is pining over them, spending all her time thinking about making him hers. Throughout the song, she utilizes witchcraft imagery to paint this dark picture, including lyrics such as “I carved our initials in the wall // Then kissed your voodoo doll,” and “Lock of hair, I’ll add it to the alter.” Then, in the chorus, she confidently tells her subject to make her his ride or die. Just like her romantic interest, Ellise has successfully mesmerized her listeners and made them “committed for life.” cherry on top Ellise continues the album with a dark story of co-dependence and toxicity. From a brief overview, “cherry on top” appears to be a sweet track about her subject being the only person able to pull her from the brink. However, as she continues through, it is revealed that, while he can calm her, he is also the reason for her insanity. Ellise sprinkles in lyrics of toxicity, revealing that he makes her pain his pleasure. He seems to thrive on her mental anguish, getting off on the control he has. The song has an angelic atmosphere accentuated by the singer’s stunning vocals. This soundscape symbolizes Ellise’s constant romanticizing of this grim relationship. leech “leech” takes a complete turn from the previous tracks. While the past few songs show a glimmer of hope and blind optimism, Ellise declares her muse as an awful person. She admits that he is a freak, a creep, a leech. Someone who gets off on her misery and enjoys watching her mental health deteriorate. The production enhances this with the fiery instrumentation and Ellise’s passionate vocals, making the track an instant fan favorite. “leech” is for anyone who has been taken advantage of – whether it’s a romantic partner, a friend, or a toxic boss. Ellise makes her listeners feel seen while performing a cathartic experience for herself. dead2me My favorite track on PRETTY EVIL  is the angsty, sassy song, “dead2me.” Ellise admits that her ex-partner cheated on her with a red-headed woman. Now, she wants her revenge. In the pre-chorus, she sings, “Let’s lay this to rest tonight // Said you’d die for me,” before her blunt voice casually says, “So do it.” Then, the song switches to the infectious dark-pop chorus that utilizes funeral and death imagery to emphasize this message. My favorite genre of music is hot women killing men for their wrongdoings. Just from the title alone, I knew “dead2me” would be my favorite song, and Ellise did NOT disappoint. feel better together “feel better together” feels more of an interlude that transitions the album from the anger of “dead2me” to the desperation of “dead girl dreaming.” The song lulls the listener into a sense of false security with the heavenly vocals and soft instrumentation. However, Ellise sings to her subject, admitting they are no longer a perfect fit. They once thought they were soulmates, but she knows it is a lost cause. They are taking too much energy to keep this love alive, and they should just let it expire. It is a heartbreaking notion that is all too real – sometimes relationships just can’t work out even if the love is still there. dead girl dreaming The album kicks back up with the electrifying “dead girl dreaming.” The song continues with the theme of a toxic relationship. The type that is one-sided, leaving Ellise pleading for even a shred of the respect she deserves. In the chorus, she admits, “I’d pick you even if you’re poison // Run to you, past every warning // Oh, I’m a dead girl dreaming // That you can breathe me to life.” She is aware that he is giving her the runaround but is hoping that he will surprise her in the end. The production has a dark, whimsical soundscape that leaves listeners begging for more. With this instrumentation, “dead girl dreaming” has been one of the songs that remains on a constant loop in my head. runaway bride “runaway bride” is another one of my top favorite tracks on PRETTY EVIL.  Being second only to “dead2me” is ironic due to the juxtaposition of the wedding imagery in this song to the funeral imagery in the previous track. Both occur in chapels. Both are led by a priest. And both songs paint vivid pictures of the story. However, “runaway bride” returns to the narrative of a toxic relationship that Ellise continues to return to. She is willing to sacrifice anything for them, burning any bridge in her path. Nothing will stop her from being with them. The production contains a fast tempo that complements the lyrics, transporting the listener into the high-stakes situation.   ballerina “ballerina” is another instant fan favorite with its hauntingly beautiful production and mesmerizing lyrics. The song describes the feeling of Ellise giving all of herself, sacrificing her own comfort and happiness to make the subject feel better. A ballerina is a perfect metaphor for this. These graceful dancers hide their pain in the perfect pointe shoes with their heads held high to perform an elegant show for the audience. Ellise is undergoing similar pain, putting her subject first before her needs. Furthermore, she reveals that the only words coming out of their mouth are, “Ballerina, won’t you dance for me? // Lost her head but, God, it’s perfect // Ballerina, baby, can’t you see? // It’ll kill you, but it’s worth it.” Ellise admits she knows this person is using her for their gain, yet she cannot seem to stop dancing for them. The song is as classy yet brutal as the majestic sport. bite Another dark-pop anthem that immediately catches the attention of listeners. The song utilizes Biblical imagery, which has been found in other tracks on PRETTY EVIL.  Just like Eve in the Garden of Eden, Ellise has taken a bite of the forbidden fruit – her romantic interest. She knows that he is bad for her, but she would “die” just to take another bite of him. The heavy production effortlessly blends with this imagery, making it a wonderful song about sin, lust, and desire. With "bite," Ellise has once again perfected the eerie soundscape with her infectious vocals that fans initially fall in love with. valentine “valentine” is directly connected to “dead2me,” a poetic continuation of the electrifying anthem. While the first song is a heavy dark-pop track about destroying her cheating ex, “valentine” is a soothing ode to the other woman. Ellise knows that it is neither of the girls’ fault – he played them both. She finds it strange that they look nothing alike; Ellise is the moon, and the other girl is the sun. The connection between the two songs is even more apparent when she says, “Your hair shines redder than wine,” alluding to the red hair in the bathroom sink of “dead2me.”  Ellise showcases the heartbreak and defeat she feels with her stunning vocals and vulnerable lyrics, making “valentine” the most devastating song on the album. EVIL Ellise closes the album with the perfect track. “EVIL” admits that they are both to blame as she sings, “I never wanted it to get so evil // We turned each other into vicious people.” However, she continues, “This heartache left me bloodstained // Made me lethal.” Her subject’s behavior turned her into this person she does not recognize – someone who wishes for death and revenge. The instrumentation returns to the harmonic intro of “PRETTY,” beautifully wrapping the album into a neat bow and making it a natural transition back to the beginning. PRETTY EVI L is a skipless album with songs for anyone, from devastating ballads to fiery anthems. Her angelic vocals pair well with the haunting production, making the album the perfect well-rounded project. The first track, “PRETTY,” and the final track, “EVIL,” create perfect bookends, tying the entire album together in one cohesive package. Ellise has ensured that PRETTY EVIL will be on the top of every listener’s Spotify Wrapped and Apple Replay. As someone who lives for this style of music and aesthetics, Ellise brought her A-game and has set impossible standards for 2025’s music. Written By Karlee Skipper Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

21-year-old singer/songwriter, Vera, has just released her third and latest single "wrong place, wrong timing." In her own words, the song captures a time where, " Sometimes neither partner does anything wrong and you’re stuck with this gut-feeling that maybe you’re on two different paths." Vera's melancholy reflection on an ended relationship begins with fond memories that quickly sour: "We'd have dinner parties on the fourth of July, I've got a cabinet full of party supplies for your sister's birthday, June 29th... what a waste." Forced to reckon with the causation of the end, Vera's haunting chorus begs the ultimate question, "Was it wrong place, or wrong timing? I tried to save it but I'm so sick of trying." Vera's soft, layered vocals create an echo against thoughtful piano and electric lofi-style instrumentation in this indie rock ballad. The supporting instrumentation accentuates the longing for closure in this vocal performance. Changing between her lower and higher vocal register, Vera's dynamic sound compels the song forward. "Wrong place, wrong timing" delivers a moody progression of emotion, journeying through the tumultuous landscape that is post-breakup. Vera stated, " I wanted the song to feel as if you were sitting right next to that person while in real-time having the spiraling realization—even though you love them—it’s already over." By capturing all the relevant components of the narrator's back-and-forth emotions through sonic production, I think Vera delivers just that. The Canadian indie rock/pop musician now based out of Nashville, TN, has accumulated over 14,000 monthly listeners on Spotify with only three songs currently available to stream. Vera's first single, "Summer Insomniacs" dropped in 2023, racking up over one million streams since its release, landing her song a spot to be played on Zane Lowe's Apple Music Radio Show. Studying Music Business at Belmont University, the artist has committed herself to her musicianship. Already having established a name for herself, Vera's light, airy sound, and clear tone in collaboration with her nostalgic lyricism set the stage for the future of her music. "Wrong place, wrong timing" is the perfect addition to your "dreamy, lethargic, melancholic" playlist, I know I'm adding it to mine. Written By Azalea Withrow FOLLOW VERA: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | YouTube

SOZI’s new single, “Skipping Stones,” has been one of my favorite releases of the new year. An acoustic ballad on letting go and beginning over, SOZI wishes to move on from the current stage of life she’s in. Having “days that bleed right into nights,” SOZI is stuck within a cycle of meaningless moments, repeating and never-ending. Wishing to let that cycle go, SOZI hopes that when the right moment comes and everything that’s happened makes sense, it’ll “feel like a new day.” As she expresses in the chorus, she’s ready to “[skip] stones by the waterside / as the ripples fade into the sky.” The cycle will come to an end and ripple out, and she’ll be able to “let it all go.” I really loved this song. Going through a transition where the puzzle pieces don’t exactly  fit into place quite yet is something that’s deeply personal to me right now and something that’s so human as we go through our lives. Not only that, the song is really cinematic. Imagine a montage in a movie in which the main character does a lot of self-reflection–journaling, reconnecting with friends, exploring new hobbies–and I think that perfectly encapsulates the song as a whole. The song comes with a hopeful message, that there is a light at the end of the tunnel with letting go, and I think that’s beautiful. SOZI is an Los Angeles native who grew up around music, being surrounded by it ever since she was little. Being classically trained in piano first, it was a natural progression into where she is today. With her songs being featured in hit Netflix shows Love is Blind and Temptation Island , SOZI is becoming more and more acquainted with the general public. While she is a singer, SOZI is also a producer and a songwriter as well, being authentically herself in the projects she’s released. With other releases such as her EP BLOOM  and songs like “In Between,” SOZI has a wide discography, and with her nearing 29,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, there’s no sign that SOZI is slowing down any time soon. Written By Abby Mornhinweg FOLLOW SOZI: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Jamie Alimorad brings us another one of his greatest singles that expresses the feeling of love toward someone. Love is more than just a word or saying we tell our loved ones, it’s one of our deepest expressions that signifies something so beautiful. When you feel so deeply for another person the world slows down for what feels like forever. You get to know each other better than anyone else you’ve met. You learn about their passions and future endeavors, and you fall madly in love to the point where you can’t bear to be away from one another.  “Fade Into You” is a song that shows the pure love an individual can have for someone and all the feelings that come with it. “Fade Into You” has the catchiest melody at the beginning that goes throughout the entire song. The track has a tone that is super uplifting, and his captivating vocals brought it all together. He sang so softly yet brought so much might with each lyric, there was a fresh touch to the whole song. The instrumentals were filled with so much life from the bright piano keys being played layered by the guitar and drums. The ending was my personal favorite as he sang so passionately then transitioned into a joyful, pop tone that perfectly closed it all.   Jamie Alimorad is a singer/songwriter hailing from Harrison, New York. He began his career as a solo artist while attending the University of Northeastern for Music Technology. With his ongoing education he wrote and released his first EP titled "Cornerstone" in 2010, releasing music regularly after that. His talents reached the hearts of many which prompted numerous nominations and awards for the album titled “This Is Tomorrow Calling.” Alimorad has made a huge impact in the music industry as a new artist through his heartfelt songs. “Fade Into You” is his brand new single which was written in a frustrating time but became something that is so catchy and amazing.   Written By Julissa Garcia FOLLOW Jamie Alimorad: Instagram   | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube  | Website *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

Love is a gamble. While it is true that trust is built over time through actions, giving someone the opportunity to prove themselves and pursuing someone is a chance in itself. You put your heart in the hands of another, not knowing they will hold it close or tear it to shreds. Like the lottery, love is a gamble. This is the dilemma that Bailey Perrie describes in her song “The Lotto”. Rather, she describes how it feels to get a losing draw. With lines such as “So I guess she won the lotto / with him” and “Maybe if I dress just a little nicer / Maybe if I was more outgoing / “You’d, You’d drop everything for me”, Perrie artistically depicts the feeling of someone else getting the winning hand and having to pretend that everything is okay. Perrie has a powerful voice that can shake stadiums and hearts. Her tone rings clear with powerful messages of vulnerability. Instrumentals underneath her voice in this song complement the lyrics and vocals very nicely. Powerful guitar tracks add to the melodic and harmonic content of the song in a moving way, creating a reflective and melancholic atmosphere. The drums act as an anchoring force in the verse and pre-chorus and rise to a climax in the chorus and drive the track forward. Each component of this song act as a building block to a larger work of art, proving that Perrie is a musical architect that puts intention behind every artistic decision. Bailey Perrie is a 15-year-old singer and songwriter from Australia. Despite her young age, she demonstrates raw talent and artistry that has not gone unnoticed by media sources worldwide. She was awarded the International Rising Star title from the International Singer-Songwriters Association. In Australia she was also named Youth Songwriter of the Year in 2024. She has released two albums and demonstrated impressive performance abilities on stages internationally. Perrie is bound to establish a legacy for herself with her musical prowess and authentic songwriting. Written By Victoria Fitzgerald FOLLOW BAILEY PERRIE: Instagram   | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

It’s so easy for us to palliate our skills in today's society. To soften the innate light we were born with, and silence the fervent passion in our hearts. Getting discouraged by the judgment and scrutiny of others is almost too common; the cacophonous voices that tell us to mitigate our talents are incessant. During these discouraging moments, we feel out of touch or simply too discouraged to embrace ourselves for who we really are. We opt for dimming the natural light in our hearts. It’s imperative to remember that we are not placed in this world to please others who try to facilitate those who wish to incapacitate us. We should accept ourselves and love ourselves deeply, regardless of whether others do or not. “Madness” by San Sebastian is a deeply motivating song that expresses the same profound message, adding a heartfelt voice to the idea of expressing oneself regardless of what others may think. With emotive lyrics like “I will not apologize, I’ve got reasons” and “Keep us in the light, bring it back to life, no fear,” this song truly reminds us that we shouldn’t be apologetic for who we are, that we have nothing to hide– that our true self isn’t worth hiding, but it’s worth exhibiting for every eye to see. The song opens up in a manner that I could only describe as a flower that has flourished, San’s voice acting as the main instrument almost immediately, as the other electro-like instruments dance around his voice in a way that accolades our singer. Although the lyrics are quite admirable, I can’t help but notice the buoyant energy I feel while listening to this song. This song isn’t only something that can be played when one wants to feel and resonate with deep lyrics, but this song can also be listened to when we feel like simply listening to it for what it is. The blend of sound is capable of sparking vitality and exuberance in us, so while the song is also something that holds deep and meaningful lyrics, it can also be something to be enjoyed as a piece of music. I find it most admirable, and I can’t help but marvel at the theme of the song. It’s something special, especially in today's societal standards where everyone must look and behave a certain way. “Madness” will serve as a reminder for many to cherish oneself. The exceptionally young artist, San Sebastian, is a singer and songwriter raised in Stockholm’s Järfälla. Sebastian’s journey started soon after he became the first “Idol” picked by Anders Bagge, a well-known and popular songwriter and producer. Soon after, with the help of Bagge, San was signed to a record label titled Metronica. San’s music career is now beginning to take off from the moment he was signed to the newly founded record label, flourishing as an artist and growing in his journey as a musician. Formally, San had been releasing music under his stage name Norr; however, last year in spring, he relaunched his music, releasing his debut single “Hear Me Out”. With “Madness” now being streamed and listened to, we can further expect more from our young and talented artist, San Sebastian! Written By Rosalyn Sanchez FOLLOW SAN SEBASTIAN: Instagram   | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

I think it’s a pretty big understatement to say that relationships can be complicated, confusing, and full of longing. Yi’s latest single “this is the song” harnesses the want that comes from desiring to get back with your ex, as well as all those other complex and intricate feelings that come along with trying to jump back into the arms of someone who no longer wants your relationship to continue in any way, shape, or form. An energetic vibe encases this track with its upbeat and pop punk tones, with lyricism that is overflowing with an aching yearning that will definitely speak to you if you’ve ever felt the tug of your ex, the hope that you’ll be able to work things through and be together again. Yi’s “this is the song” is going to be perfect for those of you who can relate to its lyrics, but also if you just enjoy tracks that aim directly for your heart through its songwriting and soundscape. Click here to listen to "this is the song"! The first thing I noticed about “this is the song” was just how fresh it sounded– like a cool spring day, like basking underneath the sun while a whipping breeze flies by, this track pulls you into its soundscape with a gentle hand and has you feeling as if the world is perfectly alright. It’s just such a fun yet clean soundscape; with some percussion and sparkling synth, and of course Yi’s brilliantly crisp vocals, everything about it just fits the song’s overall tone in a lovely way. And even though the lyrics are full of longing and wishing for one’s ex, they carry that optimism that makes you hope along with the narrator for them to get back together with said ex. I think the songwriting is made even sweeter by the fact that the title is nestled within the lyrics themselves, joined by “for her” at the end of its line – "this is the song for her" . If you’re a lover of fervent yearning, or if you can relate to the lyrics, you’re going to adore “this is the song” and its fantastic production. Austin-based pop artist Yi blends classical and contemporary influences to create music that is refreshing and distinct, inspired by a wide array of genres that culminate in his singular style. Yi’s musical journey has taken him to many places– from his DJ sets on the Disney XD show Polaris Primetime  to his college DJ performances, and to dropping his debut solo single “All I Want” in 2017 and his debut EP “Afton Road” in 2022, his repertoire of work is vast and dynamic. It was his 2021 viral hit “FROGGY” that truly launched him into the social media stratosphere, which has now garnered over 390,000 streams to this day. “this is the song” is Yi’s most recent single, and so if you’re a lover of fresh and powerful pop, I highly recommend you dive into the rest of Yi’s discography and drop him a follow to keep track of his next projects! Written By Alexa Leung FOLLOW YI: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook