Undead Living released their brand new single titled “Dirty Persuasion” on May 14, 2025. This song is about how someone can take hold of your life by obsessing. Sometimes there are people who see you as something so perfect and they want nothing but you. It can be terrifying to always see them at your favorite spots or lurking around your home. There is this pit in your stomach that comes about leaving you unsure about what is to come. “Dirty Persuasion” is a track that highlights all of these emotions and unsure thoughts and turns them into such a great song. The song opens up with such a haunting beat that also gives off this nostalgic feel. The steady and chilling drums beats were amazing. Paring with the drums were the vocals which were outstanding. I could not get enough of this track as the vocals were so dreamy and passionate. Not to mention how relatable and honest the lyrics were with lines like “All night long I dream / ‘Cause you’re forever my.” Everything about this track was so real and gave off so many powerful emotions.   Undead Living is a band composed of Avery who hails from Fort Worth, Texas and Harrison who hails from Portland, Oregon. They created this band in 2022 with a common interest and passion for creating music. They have both been playing instrumentals since they were children from the guitar to singing and so much more. They released their first single “Dirty Persuasion” in May and two days later followed their second single titled “Part of Me.” I highly recommend listening to their hit single as the instrumentals and lyrics are terrific. Be sure to also follow their social medias below and never miss out on a new release! Written By Julissa Garcia FOLLOW Undead Living: Website   | Spotify  | SoundCloud   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

Gina Zo is nothing short of a pop-rock revolutionary, capturing our hearts with the spunkiest summer smash, "Dirty Habits". Drawing on the intimately complex relationship between our dreams and reality, Zo blends a bold, stirring commentary with killer musicality. The lyrics "don't wake me up...I don't wanna see the light" speak to how much she enjoys the intoxicating rush of chasing after her vivid imagination, so close yet so far beyond her grasp. Zo masterfully conveys the emotional whiplash of the exhilarating roller coaster that is dreaming and feeling. Alluding to more themes of rawness, love, and identity to come in her upcoming projects, "Dirty Habits" is a beautifully complex piece that grounds us in Zo's vulnerability and artistic depth. "Dirty Habits" is an irresistibly catchy track that showcases Zo's natural charm as she puts her own spin on classic pop elements. Zo enters the first verse with a rich, resonant tone that commands our attention and creates a smoldering mood for us to immerse ourselves in. The fiery alto vocals immediately lure us into the song's entrancing aura and settle us in its feverishly enigmatic dream state alongside Zo. Throughout the song, she glides across old-school synths, carrying traces of punk, rock, and indie influences with her. Zo crafts a sound that's both electrifying and liberating, singing each chorus with a mounting intensity. Her lyrical brilliance, powerful range, and characteristic Philly accent turn this song into a memorable summer earworm destined to get stuck in our heads for the months to come. Gina Zo is a Philadelphian pop gem turned LA powerhouse. Signing at an indie label at a young age, Zo was exposed to the unforgiving underbelly of the music industry but didn't let them deter her. Instead, she used it as fuel to create a name and legacy for her music. Having worked both as a band member in Velvet Rouge and solo artist, the gritty yet graceful singer-songwriter has used her voice as a platform to highlight and empower women and young artists navigating identity and the weight of societal expectations. Throughout her emblematic journey, Zo has ushered in a new sense of authenticity into pop scene and settled into her artistry and craft. A symbol of pride, womanhood, fearlessness, and defiance, Gina Zo, inspires listeners to embrace their power and reminds them that the world is theirs to claim. Speaking out about systemic sexism, sexuality, and self-liberation, Zo's music covers a wide array of culturally significant issues that resonate deeply across audiences. With her debut album set to release sometime in early 2026, be on the lookout for updates and follow Gina Zo on social media! Stay tuned! Written By Pejah Carr FOLLOW GINA: Instagram | Spotify  | YouTub e

"Red Flag" is the newest single from KTEE , a song that describes a significant other and all of their "red flags", or qualities about them that indicate they are not a good person, but still wanting to be with them anyway. KTEE explains that she is in a toxic relationship with someone like this who's red flags consist of being an inattentive partner and having issues with their vices, and that she knows of the warnings that come with being with them, but she also continues to see them. It can often seem easy to look past the red flags of someone if you like being with them, but this also comes with a price. Preceding the disco and 80's-isnpired production of "Red Flag", the song is introduced with strings before diving right into the first verse. KTEE starts singing, and she has amazing vocals. She has a large vocal range and is able to switch octaves quickly. The whole song is fantastic from start to finish, and includes cool and unique elements, such as the instrumental pausing right before the chorus drops, where KTEE briefly sings acapella. The song is very upbeat and fun and perfect for the summer season, and contains lots of energetic synths and vibes that are consistent throughout the single. KTEE is a music artist hailing from Austria. She grew with a love for music and always had dreams of making and releasing her own, and also while attending university. Early on, she was a contest in a singing competition, and in 2017, she released her debut single "Rock Your Life". She released other amazing songs in addition to her debut and "Red Flag", including "Way for a Women", "Save Your Heart First", and "Blue Sweater". In 2024, she released her debut EP Live in Vienna , including four live versions of her music. KTEE's music has also been played throughout radio stations across Europe. KTEE is an amazing and very talented artist! Written By Ashley Adams FOLLOW KTEE: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Compound tones of millennial angst and a fear of “ what’s to come ” challenge the youthful resilience of Indoor Friends’ “Fired Up” through a punk-pop sound and anxious, coming of age lyrics. They sing about fleeting things like “ tattoos and skinny jeans ”, “ teenage dreams ”, and “ good grades ” to contrast the unfortunate truth of actually growing up. Stand-out lyrics like “ outgrew my fake ID/ still scared you’re mad at me, ” bring a snicker of adolescent authenticity to an adult-doom track that eventually celebrates making it “ this far ” in life. Indoor Friends initially rebel, saying they’ll “ never go back to therapy ”, then reveal a sentimental self-growth that invites them back to therapy and locates their real friends. After ferociously fighting age, Indoor Friends accept new challenges with healed wounds and scars through an almost indie, alt-pop track that conveys their development as individuals.  With an instrumental sound similar to The Menzingers , this track is a casual, optimistic riot that observes positive change through energized vocals and classic punk beat. The intro kicks off with an immediate jump into a stable strum of electric strings, followed by a mellow voice that dually communicates angst and maturity. Fast paced, this track quickly bridges to the chorus, which represents ongoing confidence through flowing vocals. Quick drum patterns maintain the song’s spirit when slowing down, while layered voices add complexity and urgency near the end. Emphasis on instrumentals when closing the track mirrors the familiarity of the pop-punk genre. Indoor Friends offer a distinct approach to alt-rock that creates an infectious, compelling sound capable of attracting and activating crowds. Indoor Friends involves lead singer Amanda Bysheim, lead guitar Kat Delitto, ukulele and backing vocals from Krista Marie Setera, bass by Ben Bonadies, and drums by Matt Wilson. They’re inspired by 2000’s pop-punk alongside themes of rebellion, hope, and angst, providing similar vibes to listeners who play their new release. “Fired Up” includes a mashup of the group’s experience with aging as millennials. The song translates invincible youth into sheer determination that asks the world to try  to break them. Indoor Friends note how this is one of their first tracks with an overwhelmingly positive theme as they advocate for resilience, strength, and growth. Keep up with shows and events from Indoor Friends on their social media accounts linked below! Written By Hanna Hathaway FOLLOW INDOOR FRIENDS: Instagram | Spotify  | Facebook  | YouTube

American indie-rock band Mt. Joy released their fifth studio album, Hope We Have Fun  on March 30, 2025. I’m a newer fan of Mt. Joy and aside from listening to a few of their larger singles from previous records, Hope We Have Fun  is the first Mt. Joy album I’ve listened to all the way through. On first listen, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I quickly found myself falling in love with these tracks.  Tracklist More More More Coyote In The Middle (ft. Gigi Perez) Pink Lady God Loves Weirdos Scared I’m Gonna Fuck You Up Lucy Groove in Gotham Wild and Rotten (ft. Nathaniel Rateliff) Highway Queen She Wants to Go Dancing You Are Who She Loves Hope We Have Fun. More More More “More More More” is an opening track that hooked me in as soon as I pressed play, mostly because I couldn't tell where it was going at first. While it starts off with a folky guitar and softer vocals in the first two verses, the song gradually crescendos into an explosive, moving bridge.  As the track builds to this point before tipping over the edge, it is easy to picture it as the soundtrack to a pivotal scene in a coming-of-age film. In an interview with American Songwriter , lead singer Matt Quinn stated that the song was written as a, “rambling ending that ultimately erupts into a crescendo, which hopefully feels like a person walking off an anxiety attack and coming to an epiphany.”  It is chilling and leaves the listener breathless and ready for more. I listened to this album on my commute as the sun was rising, and it was exactly what I needed to hear to wake up in the morning.  Coyote “Coyote” opens with a thrumming guitar that makes this one of the more rock-influenced tracks on the album. This song is made for a live performance and it’s easy to picture a crowd getting excited by the song’s energetic nature.  In The Middle (ft. Gigi Perez) “In The Middle” is a sensual, groovy tune that I wish was longer than it is. It brings about that heady feeling of attraction toward someone and leaves the listener wanting more. Featuring singer/songwriter Gigi Perez, the vocals truly stand out on this track for an easy listen. Pink Lady “Pink Lady” is a retro track with a psychedelic sound. Keyboardist Jackie Miclau’s talents shine through as an upbeat keyboard riff drives the song for just under three minutes. God Loves Weirdos “God Loves Weirdos” is my favorite track on this album. Written as a reflection on the years of touring as a band, Mt. Joy wrote this song as a love letter to the feeling that no one else in the world could understand you better in that moment than your friends. It evokes images of being sleep-deprived on a long road trip and laughing through the exhaustion together. While the world outside becomes more chaotic every day, having bubbles of joy with your friends is necessary to make it through life. This song is the perfect testament to falling in love with life and nurturing your friendships. Scared I’m Gonna Fuck You Up “Scared I’m Gonna Fuck You Up” begins with a fade in from “God Loves Weirdos.” It is a short track with a fast drum beat that makes the song sound like it’s taking off on a run. The lyrics are simple, describing the fear of ruining a relationship or friendship in some unclear way. It is a stark difference from the previous track and breaks up the album as one of the middle tracks. Lucy “Lucy” is another one of my favorites on this record. Written about the band’s close friend who was diagnosed with multiple brain tumors in 2024. While the real Lucy is still alive today, the song chronicles the experience of losing a loved one and deciding to make their death mean something by appreciating life.  Lucy is described as a brave, beautiful soul who took whatever life has to offer. From jumping out of an aeroplane to spending “one more jam” with the band, Lucy seemed to do anything she pleased just because she felt like it. The lead singer is inspired by her unwavering spirit and wants to live life more like she did. This song also grapples with mortality and what happens once we die. No one truly knows where we go, but the song voices hope that the band may meet Lucy again. In the meantime, she has been sent to “solve the big history of mankind.” With its simple yet thought-provoking lyrics, this song is nostalgic and existential in just the right ways. Groove in Gotham “Groove in Gotham” is, as the name suggests, a groovy tune that I want to dance to. There is a sexy, upbeat rhythm to the backing guitars and plucky keyboard as the lyrics describe the moment of dancing like nobody's watching with someone you can’t get enough of. As the moment heats up, the only thing you can think about is making them yours. This song is dreamy and fun, making it the perfect tune to put on if you’re dancing with that special someone. Wild and Rotten (ft. Nathaniel Rateliff) “Wild and Rotten” is a bluesy tune that I love but have trouble finding words for. It is a unique, heartfelt song that details the poignant feelings of loving and losing someone who was born to be an adventurer. Through the grief, the singer is grateful for the experience of loving this person who brought so much joy to his life during their time together, and he earnestly hopes she finds happiness on her path. It embraces the uncertainty of change as a type of freedom and reminds listeners that, no matter what, the decisions you make will lead you to where you need to be.  Highway Queen “Highway Queen” is a folky, acoustic-guitar driven track that describes a woman who never looked back after leaving home. She is a free-spirit who refuses to let anything hold her down, but instead of being intimidated by it, the singer is enthralled and willing to join her on her adventures.  It was written in honor of Quinn’s wife. In an interview with Broadway World , Quinn stated, “The song is about being in love with someone you see a bit of yourself in. My wife is from Brazil but left home when she was 15 to chase a dream and had success that has kept her away from home and moved her all over the world ever since.” This song is also an ode to having to confront one's demons, even as you try to run away from him. Quinn said, “Living away from home corrals your demons in a specific way, you feel like the only way to out run them is to keep moving, and it makes being home torturous. It's something I personally struggle with so I know it when I see it in someone else, especially someone I love.” It’s the perfect song for those of us who yearn to see the world, especially as a means to confront our demons and our true selves. She Wants to Go Dancing “She Wants to Go Dancing” is a reminder to live in the moment, even when your anxieties tend to get the better of you. The singer meets a girl whose only desire is to dance the night away with no strings attached. Yet, by the end of the songs he feels there could be something much deeper between them.  It elicits the visual of being at a party or a concert and finally dancing with the person you’ve had your eye on all night. The melody is light and upbeat, making it easy to get lost in. You Are Who She Loves “You Are Who She Loves” is a slow song that reminds the listener that they are loved by someone, even when things don't come easy. The song is uncomplicated with its instrumentals and lyrics, but it still gives me chills every time I listen. It is a beautiful, moving song that is accomplished in an unpretentious package.  Hope We Have Fun. “Hope We Have Fun.” wraps up the album in a satisfying, reflective bow. It describes the hopes that the singer has for his life and his future relationships. He vows to be there when his loved ones need him, writing, “I will carry you when your dream dies // swim with you when the seas rise, singing // Whoa, I hope we have fun.” This simple proclamation is really all most people are looking for; a simple promise that the ones you love will show up for you in the highs and the lows, even when it isn’t convenient. With its simple guitar melody and emotional vocals, this song is relatable and comforting. While we can all get caught up in our day to day anxieties, it can be easy to forget the big picture that, at the end of it all, life is supposed to be exciting. This song reminds us of that. This album truly lives up to its name because it is  a fun listen. While there is a clear rock sound that is not as evident in other Mt. Joy projects, their classic folk and indie-pop sounds are carefully intertwined throughout. These songs may be best enjoyed on a road trip or outside at a concert with your closest friends. It’s a free-spirited album that reminds the listener to experience life to its fullest and have as much fun as they can in the process. It goes through themes of both grief and triumph, encapsulating the depths of the human experience in a 40-minute album. I love this project, and it will definitely be heavy in my rotation this summer.  Written By Tessa Brainard Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

GRAVA’s debut single, F.E.R.A.L., is an electronic pop song about wanting to break into the music industry. It’s upbeat, extremely catchy, and relatable. The cover art shows her locked in a cage. Let’s take this image a step further. Imagine yourself as an aspiring musician with one goal: world’s biggest popstar. Can you imagine the amount of pressure you would be under in that position? Are you talented enough? Are you working harder than the next person? What makes you so special or different? Even if you don’t know anything about Hollywood, you can still relate to the grind and commitment that it takes to get to where you want be professionally. Whether it’s tech or healthcare or education, you question yourself, you experience setbacks, but you never give up on your dream goal. F.E.R.A.L. immediately hits the listener with “LA Hills til it hurts. This never ends. They tell me not to be nervous. That I’ll find my fame if I’m curious.” Next, the pre chorus, “Sinking, the more I drown, the more It comes out. I think my flame’s about to go now”, slows down and gets a little softer. Then, the chorus crashes in. “FERAL getting manic and dangerous” hooks you and won’t let go. The bridge, “Got so many regrets, but I’m in too deep. I lost all my friends because they know I’m crazy”, represents one of the downfalls of being engrossed in one’s own personal goals. If you just listen to the song without analyzing the lyrics, you’re going to miss the true meaning. The fact that she has worked so hard at a young age to get to where she is today should be applauded. You know what else should be applauded? This song. The production is impressive and the lyricism is incredibly mature for someone fresh into adulthood. I’m obsessed and excited to hear more from her in the future. GRAVA, whose real name is Ava Grace, is an 18 year old alternative pop-rock artist hailing from Chattanooga, Tennessee, but is currently based in Nashville to pursue her music career.  She is inspired by artists like Fiona Apple , Billie Eilish , and Olivia Rodrigo . For the last couple of years, she has consistently released music including her debut, “Cigarettes & Lollipops”, and an extended play, Bite The Hand That Bleeds, with Project Sound in 2024. In addition to being a singer, she is also an actress. A young, multi-talented entertainer like GRAVA is a force to be reckoned with so don’t be surprised if she starts popping up everywhere. Written By Jazz FOLLOW Grava: Instagram | Spotify  | Soundcloud

Zosia’s “Gone” is an existential take on a cyber horror-pop sound that eerily asserts the dangers of a fantastical spiral. This love-laced, pop infused, crisis track explores the politics of disappearing. She starts with “ we’ve been drinking tonic/ to bury something bitter ” which foreshadows Zosia’s instinct, “ I don’t think we’re safe here ”. Themes of the forgotten, stale memories, and self-loss laser through the curious electro-pop beat that carries catastrophe. Zosia critiques: “ they’ll eat up your beauty/ but one day they won’t need it anymore ,” and “ what if love cannot save us tonight ,” acknowledging unrealistic social standards while challenging cliche solutions. In addition to this, she makes a statement about insensitivity, where she’s “ just a casualty ” and they’ll bury her “ body without memory ”, flushed with a reclamation of once-feared absence .  Altogether, she brings an uncanny attentiveness to the absence of life that’s quilted with intense production and otherworldly vocals. “Gone” is a feminine, metallic, synth-pop crossing of vibes like The Cramps and Cannons , complete with Zosia’s unique ideas. The intro lusts after disaster with a heartbeat drum and soft electro-pop darts dampened by buzzing vocals. Zosia’s voice hints at dystopia with deep, brushing verses that communicate doom. The chorus unleashes an infectious, synth-pop twang that must be replayed. Lightweight vibrato in this section also contributes to a more pop-like sound to distract from the haunting plot. The ending sound mirrors Zosia’s chant as she builds up vocals for another round of the chorus that introduces an abrupt ending. Zosia’s foggy voice unmistakably matches the exigence of this track as she harnesses the uncertainty of death and twists it into an introspective, ethereal hit. Zosia is a singer/songwriter and producer based in Los Angeles who enjoys creating music that explores existential topics paired with vivid sounds. Earlier on, Zosia anticipated becoming like Britney Spears , writing bubblegum pop songs at 9 years old. However, her talent cultivated a new sound that inspired her to claim her Polish grandmother’s name and write about chaos in the world. Along with textile pieces, Zosia likes to create cover art and lyric videos that correspond to the stories in her songs. Her debut EP, “Symptoms of Nature” was released in 2021 following her completion of a college class about death. Zosia’s dark, entrancing sound is ultra-promising, and I'm eager to see what she does next! Written By Hanna Hathaway FOLLOW ZOSIA: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Why do we have to choose when we love the rush we get from both him and his girlfriend? As the room gets hotter, and they both find their way to our hearts, we can't help but overdose on the sweet sensation from this exciting new feeling that we've just discovered. We have found that the limits have grown to be unlimited for the love we are ready for. April Jai leaves us on the edge of our seats as we question why we have to choose when we've finally found the sugar we have been craving for so long. The anthem of the summer has entered the scene for all alternate pop fans and for all who have found both ways to paradise. A dreamy, ethereal melody guides us to the electric and addictive beat of "WHY CHOOSE." April's smooth and rich tone lures us forward as she describes the moment she can't get enough of. The sweet sensation has taken over, and the rush of it all feels like a drug. We build to the compelling chorus as the room gets hotter and the energy of the song rises. She questions why she has to choose as the melody of the chorus reflects the tempting and powerful nature from this awakening new feeling. The electric, dynamic melody continues to take us on a ride as April expresses the sweet sensation that has no limits. April Jai's "WHY CHOOSE" is the song that carries us through the thrill of that sweet rush that we can't get enough of. April Jai is a Scottish singer and songwriter living in London who brings a unique and exciting new sound to the world of alt-pop. She has been influenced by Olivia Rodrigo, Taylor Swift, and Fletcher, but has brought her own distinct twist to the music scene with her signature phrase, "depression with a hint of badass," that has fans hooked. "Morally Grey," an anthem for all book lovers, had garnered wide support and praise across all platforms from many who have named it the perfect song for their love of morally grey book characters. The growing popularity of the song increased the demands for more versions of the track which led to the collaboration with alt-rock artist Nation Haven. The track continued to show its popularity after Spotify named one of their editorial playlists after the song. April Jai has many fans on the edge of their seats as we all can't wait to see what incredible songs are in store. Written By Nini Alano FOLLOW APRIL JAI: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Xander Lees new single titled “legacy act” was released on May 27, 2025. This song is about how some relationships just aren’t meant to be. We are all at a different point in our lives with many responsibilities. Sometimes those who are in our lives may not be in the same place and fail to see the other side’s view. It can become extremely frustrating when those in relationships don’t understand your thought process. But over time it becomes clear that they may just not be for you anymore.   “legacy act” opens up with such explosive and sharp drum beats. I thought this was a great intro to the upbeat sound throughout the song. While this track is about how some relationships fail to find common ground. I thought the feel-good mood was the perfect touch to this song. As it showcases the intense emotions, anyone in this situation can relate too. Pairing with the rhythm of the track was his vocals. There was never a moment where his high energy and passionate voice wasn’t present.   Xander Lee is a singer/songwriter from Menlo Park, California. In 2020 he released his first single titled “Inherit” and has since released regularly. His music is super raw and brings about awareness to issues of mental health and the struggles of young adults. His brand-new release “legacy act” is a pop rock track filled with relatable lyrics. Not to mention how amazing the soundtrack is. Be sure to follow his social medias below and stay tuned for what this talented artist has for us next.   Written By Julissa Garcia FOLLOW Xander Lee: Instagram   | Spotify  | TikTok   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

In recent years, you may have noticed that country music has been making its way into pop music spaces. Artists like Beyonce, Chappell Roan, and Post Malone have tried their hand at the art and created some truly iconic tunes. We've also seen the emergence of artists like Shaboozey taking over the Billboard Top 100 with, you guessed it, a country hit. So, what's going on here? Why is a genre historically tied to the US South suddenly blowing up all over the world? Well, that's what we're here to discuss. So, strap on your sparkly pink cowboy boots and come along as we explain the rise of country music in mainstream spaces. A History of Country Music It's no secret that country music is a timeless genre in American history. That trademark twang is the product of centuries of Southern and Appalachian cultures. The genre itself dates back all the way to the 1920s, but found widespread traction in the 1940s. Country music's persistence is derived from the sheer drive to play music in any and all economic situations. The parallels to gospel hymns, slave songs, and traditional folk songs are extremely prevalent when you think about the structure and sound of classic country. And remember, the United States is a melting pot. The modern, diverse society we have today ties back to our ancestors from all over the world. Country music holds one of the richest and most fascinating histories of any genre of music, with a winding road lined with ups, downs, twists, turns, and a whole slew of creative artists making something meaningful. Country Music's Inspiration - The 1st Generation Country's influences are boundless. You may recall hearing yodeling when you listen to classic country music. Now, I don't have to tell you that Americans didn't invent the yodel. That credit belongs to the Swiss. However, the actual purpose of yodeling is to communicate and aid in herding livestock across mountainous regions. Of course, American cowboys learned this technique from their Swiss descendants and friends, and eventually, that sing-song sound wound up becoming a vital part of their music. Jimmie Rodgers, who is often considered the 'Father of Country Music' can be heard yodeling in his music from 1928. Country in the Spotlight - The 2nd Generation During the 1930s and 40s, country music's popularity skyrocketed due to radio exposure and the airing of the Grand Ole Opry. This was also the time period when Westerns dominated the Hollywood spotlight. Gene Autry and Hank Williams hit the scene, giving rise to the 'singing cowboy' trope. However, it was Bob Wills who made the most notable contribution to country music in this era. He and his string band brought jazz to the table, creating one of the most beloved types of classic country known as Dixieland Jazz or Western Swing. These small tweaks and different talents brought together made for a vibrant, danceable sound enjoyed at even the remotest of barn dances on the most finicky of radios. The Rise of Bluegrass and Rock and Roll - The 3rd Generation After World War II, country music found its way into poorer communities. While gospel was still a key component to country, Native American and Hispanic influence began making its mark on country sound. It was in the 1950s and 60s that we saw the mainstream emergence of Bluegrass. This genre spawned from the idea of making great music from very little. You can't afford an instrument? That's okay, we've got a washboard. Don't know how to play? That's all right. Sing how they taught you in church. A basic band could consist of a guitar, banjo, drums, and a fiddle. However, any number of household items and combinations were used to make a band and the genre thrived. Bluegrass made its way onto the Grand Ole Opry and the rest was history. However, another genre was making its rounds around this time, and that genre was rock and roll. Electric instruments like guitars and keyboards began to see stages across the US. Rock's influence on country music is undeniable even today, thanks to a little fusion known as rockabilly. Major representatives of the rockabilly sound include Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis. Rockabilly music would come to be known today as Nashville country and became a billion-dollar industry. Artists like Patsy Cline and Jim Reeves were prominent pioneers of the Nashville scene. Much like today, genre purists from both the rock and roll and country sides would emerge, giving pushback to the rising new fusion. It sounds silly, doesn't it? This sound is obviously country music, right? Of course, the British Invasion of the 1960s influenced rock music in a whole new way, splitting the genre into even more distinctions. Fans of groups like the Beatles shifted to listening to more of that British sound, leaving rockabilly in the dust. Meanwhile, those who believed country music should have stayed traditional and out of the hands of radio producers opposed the Nashville sound as well. However, as you're about to see, music has a way of evolving despite artistic differences. Country Giants - The 4th Generation While 4th generation country isn't quite traditional, it's certainly what most people think of when they think about classic country. This era in the 70s and 80s gave rise to some of country's most legendary artists like Dolly Parton and John Denver. It was the time that introduced the idea of outlaw country and country pop. John Denver's impact on the era included a blend of country, folk, and rock. His song, "Country Roads", is still widely known as West Virginia's anthem across the world. It's recognizable in countless countries, sung in countless languages, as the little thing that sets Appalachia apart, and we think that's really cool. Of course, this was a time when country music was fully commercialized. It wore glitz and glamour as a vehicle for telling its stories. And if you've ever listened to Dolly Parton, you know her glamour discounted absolutely nothing. Her tunes like "Jolene" and "I Will Always Love You" struck the hearts of countless listeners. Today, Dolly is still performing, lending her classic voice as a feature to modern artists like her god-daughter Miley Cyrus, Sabrina Carpenter, and even Beyonce. She has even taken part in an EDM record by Cheat Codes in a song titled, "Bets on Us". The Modern Era - The 5th and 6th Generations In the 1990s and 2000s, country music became something of a stadium event. Artists like Brooks and Dunn, Shania Twain, and Garth Brooks became huge. Concerts were selling out like hotcakes, and the line between country, rock, and pop continued to blur. As a matter of fact, some artists began to notice. Shania Twain's 2002 album, Up!, actually had three different versions. The green version leaned more into traditional country, the red disc was more of a rock sound, and the blue version had a rhythmic, international sound reminiscent of Bollywood music. This blending of genres pushed country further and further into the mainstream, opening it up to those who might not otherwise give the genre a chance. After the tragic events of September 11th, 2001 in the US, some country artists took particularly more patriotic turns in their songwriting. It was an impactful event that, for better or worse, unified Americans in a way that nothing had in a long time. Despite country being an age old American tradition, this is around the point in time where patriotism and country music became almost completely synonymous. It paved the way for the connection country has now to American conservatism. Although, not everyone wanted to write about that sort of thing. Country that wasn't patriotic usually consisted of tunes about love, having fun, dancing, or drinking. There were also some stellar girl power artists rising up like The Chicks, Miranda Lambert, and Carrie Underwood, who really gave rise to that 'kill your ex' trope in country music we all know and can't help but sing out when we hear it. It was an interesting time to push the boundaries of being a woman in country music. However, as you'll see, that self-discovery wasn't anywhere close to stopping. Post-Modern Neo-Country - Present Day We've talked about how country music has blended with multiple genres over the course of its now 100-year lifespan, but that doesn't really answer the question of why it's coming back into the mainstream now, in 2025. To answer that question, we have to talk about a few very notable artists. In 2019, A little-known artist named Lil Nas X would release a song called "Old Town Road". You might've heard of it. But why is this important? Well, the massive popularity of "Old Town Road" lent millions of ears to an openly gay, black country AND hip-hop musician, something that Americans were less willing to acknowledge before this release due to unfortunate prejudice and taboo double standards in the country music industry. Lil Nas X undoubtedly started a wave in pop and hip-hop spaces, giving artists the confidence to make the music that they want to make. The newfound freedom that came from this new wave sparked the idea that artists no longer need to be confined to just one genre. Post Malone, a known hip-hop artist, started stepping outside the lines back in 2023 with his country-folk album, AUSTIN . His single, "I Had Some Help" from 2024, rode the top of the Billboard charts for months alongside another influential modern artist. Another 2024 release, "Bar Song", by Shaboozey lit up the Billboard Top 100 upon release with its unique country take on J-Kwon's 2004 hip-hop classic, "Tipsy". This emulation's popularity put yet another black country artist on the map. It brought hip-hop nostalgia from the 2000s and pulled in new listeners with its modern charm. Recently, our resident sapphic icon, Chappell Roan, has released her new country song, "The Giver" to overwhelming praise. Is Chappell becoming a full-time country artist? Absolutely not. As a matter of fact, she did this song just for fun, as music should be, and we respect that. Now, I know y'all didn't think I could talk about the rise of country music without talking about a modern queen, Beyonce. Cowboy Carter continues to be the talk of the internet since its release in March, 2024. Beyonce, a well-known, critically acclaimed, Grammy-winning pop, hip-hop and R&B artist, releasing a country album was certainly a big event, and it's sparked some interesting conversations. While the album explores Queen Bey's Texas roots, some listeners don't consider it 'country enough'. (Think back to the rockabilly discourse of the 1960s.) Of course, Beyonce saw this coming and left no stone unturned. The album includes several vocal endorsements from country legends like Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, and most importantly, Linda Martell. If you aren't familiar with Linda Martell, she was the first commercially successful black female country artist in history. For Beyonce to have her blessing is one of the greatest honors imaginable. Cowboy Carter is more than meets the eye, and its audience knows that all too well. Thank you for sticking with us throughout this essay of an article! It has truly been a labor of love to compile this timeline for you. So, what did you think? Did you learn something new? Maybe you'll see country music in a whole new light. Feel free to tell us your thoughts at any of our socials below. Written By Shelbi Baker Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

Rising multifaceted pop artist, Julian Sometimes explores the exhilarating passion that's innately rooted in nascent romantic love. Julian’s debut single, wittily titled as “Buzz,” inspires audiences to reminisce on their own romantic love journeys and highlights the thrilling and iconic love at first sight trope. The vibrant piece captures the transformative and all-consuming force embedded in one’s first encounter with romance. Through its playful lyrics, snazzy sound, and communicative wordplay, the simple word and title “Buzz,” adopts a variety of meanings interlinked with the concept of new and blooming romantic love. The song’s introduction instantly grounds the speaker’s view on romantic connection as an experience embodied by fear and angst: “Bees everywhere / I’ve always been scared / Never been stung before / My friends all say, you gotta open yourself up (open yourself up to love, yeah) / What my friends don’t know is that I caught a little buzz (a buzz).” The keywords “stung” and “buzz” mold the plain vision of a bee stinging the speaker to reveal a pivotal turning point in the speaker’s emotional state. For what seems to be the first time, the song’s speaker has fallen in love. Because of this, the word buzz is defined in a positive light, where intense feelings of excitement and euphoria are bonded with a gentle, subtle, and never-ending reminder of what love feels like.  In a unique way, the singular word, buzz, intentionally shapes a bright and youthful tone to be established. Julian’s rich and smooth sound, both in voice and track, successfully create a lighthearted, fun, and addicting atmosphere enhanced by simple, yet layered storytelling. There are hints of indie pop, smooth jazz, and R&B soul throughout the entire tune, and as a whole the track is surrounded by a strong sense of versatility in both genre and style. This detail strengthens the overall sound of “Buzz,” for its diverse sound leaves audiences in a state of awe and shock. Because Julian’s soft, falsetto, yet equally expressive vocals, is perfectly paired with a warm and stimulating soundscape, its memorable effect on listeners is not surprising but instead appreciated. There is a steady balance at play that instinctively designs romance to be felt and heard via sound. While the song conveys the speaker’s romantic fixation, through lyrics such as, “I saw you smiling / And the whole room disappeared /…/ I heard you laughing / And everything slowed down,” it is directly in the sound where the idea of sunny romance truly shines. The tune is founded by dreamy, echoey, electronic synths that progress and evolve throughout time, and elevate the song’s magical and whimsical ambiance. Its mastered and controlled drum beats, animated chord progression, alongside milky and lustrous vocals, roots “Buzz” to feel spirited and resemble a sensational and engrossing romance. In “Buzz,” first loves aren’t perceived through the typical lens of heartbreak, but are instead embraced for their liberating impact on human emotion. As a listener, you cannot help but to be charmed by this buzzing pop hit. The LA based artist, Julian Drucker, cleverly known as Julian Sometimes, is described as a “pop project” individual that soars in a variety of passion-fueled mediums. Julian’s versatile and ranging history as a film and TV music supervisor, musical theater lover, and now full on musician, has pushed his first single “Buzz,” and upcoming EP projects to defy the restrictive boundaries forced onto rising artists. As a first time listener, I believe Julian’s music thrives because of his mastered and multiskilled expertise within the arts. Julian’s love for music stems from his parents’ musical upbringings and his continuous curiosity for the art as a college student. His musical theater work has been workshopped and executed for audiences in both NYC and LA, and original projects have been explored in short films and dance production companies. Julian’s respect, devotion, and genuine interest for his craft allows audiences to feel his work as a lived, authentic experience. His effortless and buttery vocals, as well as meticulous and electrifying sound production, heightens his title as an artist to feel earned. There is a breathtaking intimacy and rawness to Julian’s sound that is rare, one of a kind. As of now, his first single has gained him a total of 1,208 monthly listeners. I have no doubt that number will swiftly increase. As of 2025, early listeners eagerly await the release of his EP projects. You can officially consider me a buzzing fan. Written By Galileah Sanchez FOLLOW JULIAN SOMETIMES: Instagram   | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

Heather Youmans challenges the dynamic of melodic storytelling by embodying the struggles of her triumphant mother, troubled by 2 generations of abandonment trauma. Her mother was destined to “ break the cycle, " despite having “ every reason ” to hate her own maternal upbringing that followed in the footsteps of the even prior generation. Youmans layers a fragile conversation between generations that allows her to empathize with her own mother. Singing in her mother’s shoes, she recognizes “' cause where you came from you were on your own/ and nobody taught you how to be a mom, ” forgiving her grandmother for unintentionally repeating negative family history. She reiterates this as she sings with her mother’s voice to her grandmother, acknowledging “ the same thing happened to you, ” in terms of absent parenting or lack of a maternal figure. Altogether, Youmans’ new release reveals the intricacy of mother-daughter relationships in a way that ponders the merit of generational trauma.  Timid electric strings and ringing vocals represent frail memories and truths within the story of this song. Exuding heavy notes through an unwavering voice, Youmans' cries guide the chord progression of the strings to express cohesiveness after years of uncertainty and inconsistency. She uses a similar tone to emphasize the importance of certain phrases as a ballad-like piano melody cushions her voice. Glossy symbols introduce change of pace and lyricism which adds to the variety, timing, and texture of the track. A relaxed drum pattern offers serenity alongside sharp lyrics that shift with blame and closure. The drums pick up near the end of the track, followed by a flicker of dainty piano to symbolize the delicacy of family, change, and feelings. Singer/songwriter, vocalist, and theatrical performer, Heather Youmans, works from Los Angeles to spread optimism starting with her 2021 project, “Worth It”. Some of her music is featured in Forbes , the LA Times , and the movie “Marley and Me 2”. She sang the national anthem for 20,000 fans at Staples Center on New Year’s Eve, and appeared on FOX’s show “I Can See Your Voice”. She’s most influenced by artists like Sheryl Crow and Kelly Clarkson , but specifically notes that she was inspired by Adele when working on “All The Advice (I Didn’t Ask  For)”. Heather presents with promising potential considering the range of her talent, commitment to honest music, and ability to perform. To learn more about Heather Youmans, visit her socials linked below! Written By Hanna Hathaway FOLLOW HEATHER YOUMANS: Instagram   | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator