top of page

Search Results

5440 results found with an empty search

  • Review: "Left me on read" - Emily Evans

    We can wait hours, days, or even weeks for that one person to text us back, only to be left on read and disappointed that we were once again let down by the love that played in our heads repeatedly. The signs were not clear, and the texts remained unread as we faced the reality that it was all just an illusion. Emily Evans inspires us to read the signs that it's time to move on from a relationship where its memory now only drives us insane. When we constantly have to rethink all the special moments we thought we had with that one love that can't get out of our heads, reality will be there to break us free from the dream that we could not leave. A mystical opening and dreamy melody prepares us for the catchy beat and gentle vocals of Emily Evans that soon follows. Emily reflects the pain of being let down once again after being left for someone else. It was a love that drove her insane as it felt like it was all just a delusion. In reality, that person had been adding to the illusion that there was hope in the relationship only to be abandoned in the love now lost. The pre-chorus shows us another side of Emily's vocals as she builds to a serene falsetto, while adding on to the hurt she felt in the relationship. She continues to sing about how the signs were unclear and the love still can't leave her head as she's left going insane by the moments she can't help but rethink. The song carries on with a captivating beat as she plays the memories of the relationship on repeat in her head. Emily Evans' "Left me on read" is a song that will truly keep us from waiting for a response from someone who only lets us down. Emily Evans is a Scottish singer and songwriter who made her dream in music into reality at just 20 years old. Emily Evans' passion for music began at 8 years old, and since then she has been writing songs from her own personal experiences through her heartfelt lyrics. Her first debut single, Rut, was released in 2022, and she had created the song for others to find comfort in after being in a relationship that was not loyal. Since then, Emily Evans continues to make waves in the music industry and has since been critically acclaimed by radio shows and has won Strathclyde's Battle of the Bands in 2022. Emily Evans is an artist who truly has us excited for more music to come! Written By Nini Alano FOLLOW EMILY EVANS: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

  • Review: "this body" - reanne

    Singer-songwriter reanne's latest single, "this body," is not your typical self-love anthem. "this body" is a soulful power ballad about the realities of finding confidence in yourself. Reanne's song is both empowering and honest. She sings about the struggles one faces when overcoming insecurity in a way that makes you feel less alone. reanne states, "It’s more than just a song; it’s about acknowledging that we’re doing our best in this ongoing journey of accepting our body as we get older.” The track is a reminder to all of us to be nicer to ourselves. With "this body," reanne makes a statement--and a catchy, absolutely gorgeous pop song while she's at it. "this body" is an R&B pop fusion with rich instrumentation and layered vocals. reanne's skill as a singer-songwriter shines. The vocal harmonies give the track depth and emphasize the important lyrical message. "this body" is all about inclusivity. reanne addresses listeners directly while also sharing her own experiences struggling with self-love. It's one of the few self-love songs that emphasize you are not defined by your appearance. The refrain, "In every high and every low, I'm getting used to this body," is made to sing along to, a line so catchy that its message sticks. "this body" is a total warm hug of a song. reanne is a singer-songwriter who focuses on lyrical messaging and powerful vocals. Before going solo, the musician was been a part of several projects, including EverFlow and Forerunner Music, all of which saw great success. She even appeared on the Mandarin track 祢專屬的花園(樂團版), which currently has over 1 million streams online. reanne debuted in 2019 with the single "Same Old Shoes" and has grown massively since. Her soulfulness struck a chord with many, as she currently has over 10,000 monthly listeners and 100,000 downloads on Spotify alone, and it's clear to see why. The singer-songwriter's multi-genre discography and singular lyricism is something to behold and it will be very exciting to see where she goes next. You can listen to "this body," alongside the rest of reanne's discography on all streaming services now. Written By Lauren Nolan FOLLOW REANNE: Instagram   | Spotify  | Website  | Facebook  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

  • Review: Alice (Upside Down) - Dev London

    Dev London's "Alice (Upside Down)" is an exploration of self-discovery and the disorienting nature of modern life. The song's title nod to Alice In Wonderland , perfectly encapsulates the narrative of feeling lost in a world that constantly shifts. It hints at navigating a surreal, unfamiliar place. The song lyrics give the feeling of being trapped in a paradox, where reality feels out of reach. "Lost in my feelings / lost sight of what's real and my reality's slipping" symbolizes the uncertainty many face in search of their purpose or identity. For listeners, this might evoke feelings of navigating an uncharted relationship, struggling with expectations, or trying to make sense of a chaotic personal journey. The song speaks to anyone who's felt disillusioned, unsure of the next step, but also determined to keep moving forward. "Alice (Upside Down)" crafts a dreamy, surreal atmosphere through a blend of electronic elements and organic instrumentation. The song has a delicate, airy synth beneath a steady, muted beat. The deeper bass layers emerge, adding a weight that mirrors the song's emotional tension. The production is textured, echoing the sense of disorientation within the lyrics. London's voice is ethereal and vulnerable, floating effortlessly over the music with a slight rasp that conveys fragility and strength. His vocal delivery gives the song an intimate, introspective tone, as if he's sharing his personal struggle. The mood of the track is both melancholic and strangely uplifting -- capturing the balance of feeling lost yet hopeful. Dev London is a musician from Manteca, CA. He had been making music since 2021 with his first single, "Like I Do." London has released other singles including --- "Half Written Story" in 2022 and "Playing Games" and "Don't Wanna Be Friends" in 2024. His music has addictive melodies, relatable lyrics and charismatic performances. Make sure to follow him on Instagram and your preferred streaming platform. I can't wait to see what London has to create in the future. Continue to stream "Alice (Upside Down)." Written By Catherine Espejo FOLLOW DEV: Instagram   | Spotify  | Apple Music  | YouTube *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

  • Review: "My Design" - Noise Network x Brooke

    NOISE NETWORK and Brooke Scullion have combined forces on a new single entitled, “My Design” which explores heartbreak and the aftermath of a collapsed relationship. Its lyrics are a reminder of what once was, “As I lay here/ with these broken picture frames/ Alone in the mess we made.” The chorus sings a different tune, one of repeated reconciliation; “We try again, try again and you stay.” There is a feeling of deep regret which accompanies the rest of the song. “My Design” portrays someone grappling with moving on or going back to a past love affair. It does this effectively, while also expressing things could’ve been different if only given another chance. This back and forth will be relatable to many of us who’ve not broken a relationship clean off, as it can be tempting to go back to the comfortability of a past partner. “My Design” outlines these challenges beautifully. As for the structure and tone of the song, “My Design” blends genres but possesses a foundation of danceable techno beats and funk. Brooke Scullion’s light vocals are a beautiful addition to the punchy and exciting drops the track features. NOISE NETWORK has also included some creative vocal manipulations and effects; these are a fun and unique surprise which create a playful atmosphere within the song. Underneath the high-energy EDM production, Brooke’s vocals manage to inject raw emotion; a crucial element for connectivity within an audience. Overall, “My Design” is innovative and executed very well. Northern Ireland’s very own Brooke Scullion has been making major waves in the industry. From Representing Ireland at Eurovision 2022, to selling out venues worldwide, Brooke has proven she has what it takes. Some of her other accomplishments include being featured on BBC Radio, Spotify’s New Pop UK, and turning all four chairs on The Voice UK. Enter NOISE NETWORK, the co-creator of this wonderful single. A production duo consisting of Mike Dunne and Alastair Batchelor known for crafting beats of all genres, NOISE NETWORK has worked with a variety of huge talents. On “My Design,” Brooke and NOISE NETWORK unite their strengths to create something which feels fresh, dynamic, and undeniably catchy. If you can’t get enough of “My Design” and want to keep up with their newest releases, follow NOISE NETWORK and Brooke Scullion using all of the social media links below! Written By Casey Hascup FOLLOW NOISE NETWORK: Instagram | Spotify  | YouTube FOLLOW BROOKE: Instagram   | Spotify  | YouTube

  • Review: "Control" - FAERYS

    Coming back from a year hiatus, collaborative project FAERYS returns with genre-fusing electro rock single “Control”. The title, “Control”, sums up the song to a tee. Like FAERYS intent with their instrumentals, the song speaks of defying boundaries and breaking the chains that are placed on you to run to something better. “Control” opens with its first verse stating the lines: “Still trapped in the deep but I’m coming loose” and “Two parts, one mind, now I got to choose” signifying the topic of the track right off the bat. FAERYS takes a dive into the real doubts that we all carry, and tells their audience it's time to fight back. After an enthralling guitar solo, the female feature begins with “Hey / There’s all these doubts in my mind” followed by “I’m not running this time”. This continues the idea of “taking control” of the problems and people in life that attempt to keep you down. The high pacing of this track paired with its straight-to-the-point messaging deliver a captivating follow-up single in FAERYS discography. Click here to listen to "Control"! “Control” uses electronic, synthwave, hip-hop, and rock influences to create this electrifying single. The amalgamation of genres make “Control” a track that is undeniably unique with a little something for any music lover. “Control” opens with a rap influenced verse followed by a hard-hitting guitar solo to introduce the graceful vocals of the female feature in this single. All the while, the heavy guitar continues playing behind them. The back-and-forth of both singing and rapping from either feature complement each other and the riveting instrumental. Although rock is at the forefront of “Control”, its electronic influences are no doubt present. The home stretch to the chorus takes its guitar to new heights by slowly building upon it to make a spine-tingling bass drop akin to electro dance music. FAERYS have created the perfect creation of electronic rock, making its appeal indisputable.  FAERYS was created from two producers coming together to create genre-bending and groundbreaking music. To create their unique songs they collaborate with up-and-coming artists from around the world for the vocals. Now, after a year-long break, they have returned with two new singles - “Nova Scotia” as their debut single and “Control” as its awaited follow-up. Listeners of bands like Starset , Depeche Mode , and Nine Inch Nails can find something to enjoy from FAERYS music. Their brand new EP will include both singles along with two new singles which are to be released in 2025 as a full 4-length project. Written By Navi Madrid FOLLOW FAERYS: Instagram | Spotify  | YouTube

  • Review: "Little Things New" - Larry Karpenko

    Heartbreak lingers, reminding us that we sometimes never truly heal from our former relationships. It can leave us incapacitated, perforated with a sense of yearning and perhaps even betrayal, an unwillingness to trust due to past heartache. Overcoming such a grueling predicament can be heavy to bear all alone, it can be overwhelming, and our hope begins to diminish as we wait for the next potential companion who could, just as effortlessly, leave us in the wretched shape we were before healing. Opening our hearts that have been hardened due to heartbreak and the unfaithfulness of our past is something a plethora of us struggle with. And yet, when we least expect it, we’re suddenly pulled into the arms of someone who, miraculously, offered us the kind of love that manages to turn our lives around. Picking up our hearts off the floor, making the little things seem so new and refined again. We are sufficed with a sense of belonging, gifted with the ability to trust again through a love that’s patient and kind. “Little Things New” by Larry Karpenko, is a song that explores this same idea in a way that resonates with listeners all over the world who have experienced heartbreak, reminding us of our wistful emotions and inability to trust again. However, this person who has arbitrarily walked into our lives has somehow managed to replenish us with genuine love that prevails and heals us. Click here to listen to "Little Things New"! The song opens up with the resonating rifts of a guitar that sets a scene, depicting the theme that sounds almost hopeful and yet reflective at the same time. As Larry’s voice sets in, we’re almost immediately introduced to the theme of this song, the lyrics denoting the concept of it– depicting an image of two people who have both experienced heartbreak, yet they rewrite themselves whilst helping one another. As the lyrics suggest “you picked my heart off the floor” indicating that at one point, they were at their lowest, before this person softened their hearts and opened their eyes, making them see all the small things in life that they had once neglected and failed to see the light in. The world now moving in colors that are striking and emotive. With Larry’s voice narrating such a heartfelt picture, it’s easy for the listener to resonate with the song, led by his strong vocals that invoke the beauty in finding a true love that conquers all, and sets us apart from the heartbreak that once monopolized us. As I read the lyrics once more and add painstaking thought to such an idea, I realize that heartbreak isn’t the only thing that many of us may suffer from. Many of us suffer from abandonment, or perhaps we’ve suffered from a harrowing past that hinders us from ever loving someone. This is what makes this song even more striking and vehement– it’s not only heartbreak that has left us feeling empty and lost. Larry Karpenko, the exceptional artist behind such an emotive song is a singer and songwriter based in Southern California who blends music with inspiring ideas and themes that invoke faith and love. I can appreciate Larry’s presence in a place like the music industry, not only are his lyrics hopeful, but Larry wishes to create music that continues to strengthen people. It’s easy to become tangled in the intricate webs of hopelessness and sadness. His music and presence can be a beacon of hope for many people who are struggling. It reminds me that music isn’t simply just sound mended together to create noise, but it can be a palliative embrace that offers comfort to those who need it most, helping us feel less alone. Those who want to feel understood. Larry’s lyrics in “Little Things New” do just that. His most recent single titled “Heart Calls Love” was released just a few days ago. While Larry’s name might sound new to some, it would surprise many to know that he has also been making music that explores Christian and religious themes from the late 90's. While it’s a completely different genre, I admire his faith and the way he’s managed to explore different genres of music. As Larry continues to make music, I look forward to hearing more of his work! Written By Rosalyn Sanchez FOLLOW LARRY KARPENKO: Instagram   | Spotify | Facebook  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

  • Review: "The Devil" - Jessica Fortuin

    Photography: @alexlaycock_photography "The Devil" by Jessica Fortuin details the perspective of a woman who gets taken advantage of by a man. Her life is severely impacted by this, causing her to constantly fear his presence and replay in her head what happened over and over again. Meanwhile, the man has no remorse for what he did and doesn't receive any consequences. She is in pain that the predator that hurt her is on the loose and his life in unaffected while her's is. People who abuse others are pure evil, which is why Fortuin rightfully labels the man in the song as "The Devil". Fortuin shows off her impeccable songwriting skills in this song in how she chose to depict this subject. The terrifically written lyrics are sung with immense talent. Fortuin is a must-listen to singer who knows how to convey emotion in her songs while easily switching octaves. In addition to this, unique production elements are combined together for "The Devil", and they all work very well with one another. The tempo of the background chords are reminiscent of a rapid heartbeat, or a siren going off in a sinking submarine. The drums sound like that of a marching band. The strings and main chords are a powerful orchestral symphony. Lastly, the song ends with a few cascading piano notes. Overall, this song is a masterpiece. Jessica Fortuin is singer-songwriter from and based in Australia, specifically Sydney. She turned her passion for writing into wanting to begin a music career, and has made several songs since then, as well as an EP. She has released a few of these songs in addition to "The Devil", including "Tell Your Mom I Said Hi", "Vows", and "Sucker Punch". Duetting with her guitarist Lu Z, they are set to open for music artist YAGKI at The Lady Hampshire in Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia, on February 22, 2025. She has been featured in multiple publications, including the Rolling Stone . Jessica Fortuin is an amazing musician! Written By Ashley Adams FOLLOW JESSICA FORTUIN: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

  • Review: "Seasick" - Loralee

    Loralee's latest single, "Seasick," offers a haunting and evocative entry into the realm of bedroom pop, marking a significant return for the Michigan-based folk-pop artist. The track weaves an eerie tale of love and betrayal through its tranquil yet unsettling narrative, immersing the listener in a journey across the metaphorical waves of memory and time. With a sound characterized by its ethereal quality, "Seasick" captures the imaginations of listeners through its poetic storytelling and atmospheric arrangement, reminiscent of artists like Aurora and Billie Eilish. The song's protagonist, a ghost lost at sea, is a powerful symbol of unresolved emotions and the search for identity and understanding, which Loralee masterfully brings to life with her calming voice and evocative lyrics. Musically, "Seasick" is a delicate balance of folk and pop influences, showcasing Loralee's unique ability to create a soundscape that is both soothing and thought-provoking. The track features gentle acoustic melodies and a minimalist arrangement that enhances its lyrical depth, allowing the listener to fully engage with the narrative. Loralee's calming vocal delivery is akin to a lullaby, drawing you in with its subtle nuances while the lyrics unfold the ghostly tale of a soul attempting to piece together its past. The song’s tranquil yet poignant atmosphere creates an introspective listening experience, inviting listeners to reflect on themes of love, loss, and the passage of time. Hailing from Michigan, Loralee began her musical journey during her college years at Michigan State University. Initially inspired by a love for folk music, she picked up the acoustic guitar in 2011 and penned her first song, "Little Dynamite." Following her debut EP "If You Were a Song" in 2015, Loralee spent time cultivating her musical style through live performances and teaching music lessons, only to return with a fresh perspective on the bedroom-pop scene. Known for her imaginative storytelling and lyrical prowess, Loralee’s music is both a personal exploration and a universal narrative, resonating with listeners who appreciate authentic and emotive compositions. "Seasick," with its haunted melodies and compelling story, illustrates her growth as an artist, promising more depth and elegance in her forthcoming album. Written By Megan Cao FOLLOW LORALEE: Instagram   | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

  • EP Review: "The Way I'm Wired" - Eliza Harrison Smith

    Rising Nashville, Tennessee based indie-pop singer/songwriter, Eliza Harrison Smith has released her highly anticipated debut EP, "The Way I'm Wired". TRACKLIST Backslide Bring You Down Contradiction Hypocrite Supposed To Be Happy Originally from the outskirts of Washington, DC, Eliza Harrison Smith was a naturally creative child with a great imagination and a love for writing stories. She started to learn how to play guitar in her teenage years, and those story-telling skills turned into a passion for songwriting. In 2019, she moved to Nashville to pursue her dreams of becoming a singer/songwriter. In 2021, she released her debut single, "Just Friends" and she didn't stop there. She made a name for herself in the local indie music scene over the past few years, releasing several singles that have been played on the radio and featured on both Spotify and Apple editorial playlists. She has amassed a total of over one million streams across all platforms, and currently has 76k+ Spotify monthly listeners. She's also spent the past few years doing shows, becoming quite the live performer, playing in iconic venues like The Bluebird Cafe and NYC's The Bitter End . In support of her EP release, she just played her own headline show at The East Room . "The Way I'm Wired" is an EP that touches on the complexity of mental health and wanting to better yourself. Produced by Christian Harger , the style has been comparable to Maggie Rogers and Gracie Abrams . Lets dive into these tracks! Backslide We kick off the EP with "Backslide", a mid-tempo indie pop jam about how trying to take care of your well-being is as simple as it seems. Sometimes it feels like no matter what you do, there's always something that puts you back to square one. Although there can be set backs, this is still a song of optimism, reminding you not to give up on yourself. Eliza sings, " Healing doesn't happen in a straight line, but I hate that it's so easy to backslide ". This song has a rhythm that gets you moving, with a popping bassline. There's a gorgeous mixture of guitars and soft synths to add to the melancholic atmosphere. Eliza's voice is gentle and emotional; her tone is very reminiscent to Sasha Alex Sloan here, the queen of sad girl music. Bring You Down Track two is the leading single, "Bring You Down", which is about purposely keeping your struggles on the inside to spare the feelings of the ones that care about you, knowing it would hurt them too if they knew you were having a hard time. Although you know the right thing to do would probably be to reach out and get the help you need, part of you feels like suffering alone is better than being a burden. Co-written with Melissa Fuller and Christian Harger, Eliza describes "Bring You Down" to be one of her most honest songs she's ever released. With a unique and ear-catching soundscape, "Bring You Down" begins with a mini-intro of muted drums and piano before adding in acoustic guitar and vocals. The song builds dynamically and emotionally with some of the most gorgeous harmony arrangements and background vocals I've ever heard. Contradiction Next, we have "Contradiction", a highly relatable song about trying to understand yourself and the things that you think and do. It's hard looking in the mirror and feeling like you don't know who you're even looking at. You're constantly conflicted with yourself on the inside; and no matter how much you try to sort out your own feelings and figure out what you want, the next day you could just change you're mind and everything is a mess again. Eliza sings, "I'm consistently inconsistent, a walking contradiction". This track takes a raw, indie pop ballad instrumentation and mixes it with some electronic production elements, a style inspired by Coldplay . The down strums of acoustic guitar and piano take the forefront, along with soft synths and moments of vocoder vocals until we get these high-emotion dynamic shifts towards the end of the song which really just take the cake. Hypocrite "Hypocrite" is Eliza's message to herself, calling herself out in a light-hearted way with a super catchy bop of a song. It's definitely something many of us can relate to as well. Are you the person that everyone comes to for advice, but then you can't even stay true to that same advice for yourself? Well, then this song is for you. "Hypocrite" starts out with gorgeous, dissonant acoustic guitar chords before it continues to build and build into a full blown anthem. The groove is very nostalgic, with layers of stunning vocal harmonies that are reminiscent of 80's pop, a heavy bassline and an electric guitar riff that really just brings it all together. It makes you want to get up and dance, and helps you realize that it's okay to poke a little fun at yourself every once in a while. Supposed To Be Happy Last but certainly not least, we have the closing track "Supposed To Be Happy". There's a sense of guilt and confusion in this song about why in moments that are supposed to be positive - like birthdays, hanging out with friends, and Summer vacations - can you still not feel happy? You feel like there's something wrong with you, and you want to find a reason but you just can't. So, you fake a smile and continue to question and battle yourself on the inside in search for answers. Although this song has Eliza's signature indie pop drums and beat, the guitar and piano are more raw and use a stylistic choice that feels slightly Americana. You can feel it in the incredible melody here as well. You'll even notice just a teensy bit of country twang in Eliza's voice. I just have to say, what a fantastic decision for a final track. Everybody say "Thank you, Eliza Harrison Smith!". No, seriously though, we need more music like this that covers the mental health epidemic our world faces. People need these songs to relate to so they know that they are not alone. Not just that, but Eliza writes it so beautifully and intelligently; everything from the lyrics down to the melody, and not to mention her breathtaking voice too. To be able to craft song after song after song so brilliantly is actually remarkable, and she deserves way more attention than she is getting. If you are a fan of modern pop, indie pop, folk pop, anything of that sorts, you will absolutely love Eliza Harrison Smith. I guarantee it. If you enjoyed this EP, I suggest checking out Eliza's YouTube channel where she has live performances of the first three tracks. I also highly suggest diving into the rest of her incredible discography. Make sure to follow Eliza below to keep tabs on what's to come! Written By Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW ELIZA: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *Sponsored Post - Discovered on SubmitHub. A contribution was made to help create this article as part of a promotional campaign.

  • Top 10 Best Pop Super Bowl Halftime Performances

    Photo from the NFL Super Bowl LIX is finally here, and although I’m a huge football fan, my favorite part of the game is the halftime show. Taking the stage this year is Kendrick Lamar, who’s already had an amazing month so far with his 5-Grammy sweep. The halftime performances we know and love today look nothing like they did in the early days. Up until 1993, the NFL usually featured a college band with the occasional star. This all changed when Michael Jackson took the stage, drawing in millions of viewers to what once used to be just a filler between halves. Since then, the performances have only gotten bigger and more extravagant, so let’s take a look back and see the top 10 best pop Super Bowl halftime performances. 10. Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake Unfortunately, a certain wardrobe malfunction is probably what comes to mind when you think of this Super Bowl XXXVIII in 2004. However, the costuming, staging, choreography, and set list made for an incredible performance. The Spirit of Houston and Ocean of Soul opened the performance, followed by some of Janet and Justin’s greatest hits, like “Rhythm Nation” and “Rock Your Body”. Nelly made a guest appearance to sing “Hot in Herre”, and to balance out the R&B and pop vibe, Kid Rock also performed. A bit weird, but certainly electric. “Rhythm Nation” featured dancers hanging off set pieces, costume changes for Janet and all of her dancers, and of course, Janet and Justin had real chemistry, and it’s hard not to have a good time while watching this. 9. Shakira and Jennifer Lopez We already know these two could dance, so it’s no surprise they brought their A game with the choreography for Super Bowl LIV in 2020. Shakira performs solo for the first half, singing some of her hits like “Whenever, Wherever” and “Hips Don’t Lie”, and Bad Bunny made an appearance to rap his part of “I Like It”. JLo then takes the stage, or rather, a huge pole that she’s hanging off of. She performs some of her greatest hits like “Jenny from the Block” and “On the Floor”, and brings out J Balvin for a mashup of her song, “Booty” , and his song, “Mi Gente”. JLo brings out her daughter to sing, and they all end the performance with “Let’s Get Loud” and “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)”. The visuals for this performance are insane, and the show certainly did not disappoint. 8. Madonna with LMFAO, Nicki Minaj, CeeLo Green Although Madonna was the sole headliner for Super Bowl XLVI in 2012, there was no shortage of special guests. Madonna comes out looking like Cleopatra, being paraded out on a gold throne. With dancers adorned in gold and black armory and accessories, Madonna performed some of her hits like “Vogue” and “Music”. LMFAO came out in sparkling, zebra print armor and performed “Party Rock Anthem” with Madonna while the projections made the stage look like a DJ set up. She was then joined by Nicki Minaj and M.I.A to perform their song, “Give Me All Your Luvin’ ”, fit with majorettes, pom poms, and some cheerleading choreography. CeeLo Green makes his way to the stage dressed as a drum major alongside a marching band to continue the football game aesthetic, and the show ends with Madonna, CeeLo Green, and a choir singing “Like a Prayer”. Madonna could’ve killed this show on her own, but the special guests made the performance even better. 7. Rihanna Click the picture to watch the show! As much as we all wished that Rihanna was going to release music after this performance, we were still served excellence for Super Bowl LVII in 2023. She revealed her pregnancy at the show, and the Internet went crazy. She didn’t have fancy costume changes or insane choreography (but that didn’t stop her white-hooded dancers from going viral on TikTok), buttop she still showed up and showed out. She began her set on one of seven floating platforms performing “B*tch Better Have my Money”, and the hits never stopped coming. The most iconic moment of this performance was her mini Fenty Beauty ad, where she stopped mid-show to fix her makeup, going right back into singing “All of the Lights”. She finishes her killer set with “Diamond” on one of the rising platforms, with thousands of cell phone lights up and a beautiful fireworks show. I wouldn't be taking my role as a pop girlie seriously if I didn’t ask Rihanna to release more music, so if you’re reading this Rihanna, please do that! 6. Coldplay, Bruno Mars, and Beyonce Click the picture to watch the show! This was Coldplay’s year to headline, but it eventually became Bruno Mars and Beyonce’s halftime show - to no fault of their own. Chris Martin, the lead singer, starts on the field singing “Yellow”, and makes his way to the flower adorned stage to sing some of the band’s hits“Viva La Vida” and “Paradise”. All of a sudden, after a record scratch, the bass line from “Uptown Funk” starts to play, and Bruno Mars takes the side stage decked out in leather and gold. Beyonce emerges from a marching band on the field, paying homage to Michael Jackson’s Super Bowl performance with her outfit. She performs “Formation”, her and her dancers get into a little dance battle with Bruno and his dancers, and Coldplay takes the stage once again for their mashup of “Fix You” and “Up and Up”, showing clips of past Super Bowl half time performances.  5.  Lady Gaga Lady Gaga has been known to be someone who pushes boundaries and isn’t afraid to be eclectic or crazy, and this performance at Super Bowl LI in 2017 was no different. She starts on top of the stadium in a sparkly one piece performing a mashup of “God Bless America” and “This Land Is Your Land” with a drone show behind her. She then jumps off the roof and goes right into “Poker Face”, while continuing to do flips and tricks in a harness. Whether she’s in full choreography or being carried around like she was in “Telephone”, Lady Gaga doesn’t miss a single beat and makes everything look effortless. She seamlessly weaves her ballad, “A Million Reasons”, into the setlist filled with high energy pop songs, and the cameras often cut to the sun formation that the people on the field made with lights. Lady Gaga changes into a two piece with shoulder pads and finishes off the show with “Bad Romance”. This performance was amazing, and it really shows how well Lady Gaga can command a stadium with over 70,000 people. 4. Michael Jackson Who else would be the first Super Bowl halftime performer besides Michael Jackson? He shot up from underneath the stage and stood still for over a minute, but as soon as he grabbed glasses, the show began. He only played five songs - “Jam”, “Billie Jean”, “Black or White”, “We are the World”, and “Heal the World” - yet, the performance was still electrifying. He did his classic Michael thing with his first three songs, but the performance takes a more wholesome turn, when a choir sings “We are the World” while a card stunt in the stands shows a picture of many children holding hands. Michael delivers a heartfelt speech before ending the show with “Heal the World”, as hundreds of kids in their culture’s traditional attire come on stage. Although it wasn’t as extravagant as the others (and I certainly believe he would’ve done more if he wasn’t the first real halftime show performer), Michael is a performer unlike the world has ever seen, and he set the bar incredibly high with this performance.  3. Katy Perry Click the picture to watch the vi There are so many iconic moments from Katy Perry’s halftime show performance Super Bowl XLIX in 2015. For starters, she came out on a huge, gold tiger singing “Roar” that pranced down the field. She sings “Dark Horse” while her dancers are dressed as silver cheese pieces, dancing on a chess board. Lenny Kravtiz joins Katy on stage to do a duet of “I Kissed a Girl”, and in 20 seconds, Katy is in a brand new outfit on the other side of the field. Of course I have to bring up Left Shark, who stole the beach-inspired stage during “Teenage Dream” and “California Girls”. Missy Elliott comes on stage to perform “Get Ur Freak On”, “Work It”, and “Lose Control” with Katy after her second costume change of the night. Katy changes her costume one more time into a starry, silver gown to play “Firework”, and is pulled up into the air by a shoot star. And of course, there were fireworks. If all of this wasn’t impressive enough, her show is the only halftime show where every single song on the setlist went number 1.  Beyonce Of course Beyonce is the only person who could make this list twice. Her solo halftime performance was for Super Bowl XLVIII in 2013. She rises from the stage in a cloud of smoke, with a speech from Vince Lombardi about excellence playing in the background. She gives us a little taste of her amazing vocals with “Love on the Top”, but as soon as that brass line from “Crazy in Love” hits, she starts strutting down the stage. The song features an amazing guitar solo, and to add onto the difficulty of that, the guitar was shooting fireworks out of the head and body. After a brief dance break, she goes into “End of Time” and then “Baby Boy”, where she dances in front of the screen with multiple versions of herself doing the same choreography. All of a sudden, an alarm sounds, and the iconic intro riff of “Bootylicious” (and “Edge of Seventeen”) plays as Michelle Williams and Kelly Rowland are shot up from underneath the stage for a Destiny’s Child reunion. The three of them sing “Independent Women, Pt.1” and “Single Ladies” together, the latter with dozens of backup dancers. She finishes the killer show with a beautiful, rock-ified version of “Halo”. Everything about this performance was amazing, and the fact that she is the only Super Bowl performer who had only women on stage with her makes it even better.  Prince Click the picture to watch the show! Prince performing “Purple Rain” in the pouring rain could’ve landed him in this number 1 spot by itself. He performed at Super Bowl XLI in 2007 on top of a stage shaped like the “Artist Formerly Known as Prince” logo. Queen’s “We Will Rock You” played before Prince took the stage to play “Let’s Go Crazy”. After some crazy impressive guitar solos and some call and response with the crowd, Florida A&M’s Marching 100 took the field to play for the rest of the songs. He did three covers that night - “Proud Mary” by Creedence Clearwater Revival, “All Along the Watchtower” by Bob Dylan”, and “Best of You” by the Foo Fighters  - and each one was somehow better than the one before. And of course, he finished off his epic show with “Purple Rain”. There were no crazy theatrics, no costume changes, and only two back up dancers, and yet, this performance is widely considered to be the best Super Bowl halftime performance ever. Prince is one of the most legendary performances ever, and this show is no exception. What songs do you think Kendrick Lamar is going to play this year? You can watch the halftime show (and the Super Bowl of course) live on Fox Sports , the NFL app , Tubi , Hulu + Live TV , and YouTube TV at 6:30 pm EST on Sunday, February 9th.  Written By Lauren DiGiovanni Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

  • Review: "Stronger" - Lucy Korts

    Sometimes the biggest battle we fight is one we create with ourselves. No matter what you're going through, either publicly or silently, it's important to find something to hold on to. This something should be a sign of hope that things will soon get better. However, rebuilding yourself after a tough battle is often harder than fighting. You might be so worn down you lose who you are and picking up the pieces of what you have left can give you the strength to put them back together. Finding the resilience to stand back up on your feet is what makes you strong. Regaining the trust in yourself to overcome whatever weight is pulling you down makes you courageous. At the end of the day, you have to realize that you are your own friend, not an enemy. "Stronger" by Lucy Korts is the perfect anthem for reclaiming your personal strength and valuing your self-worth. Her lyrics convey that although you might be feeling hurt and angry, pushing forward and rising above the challenges you face are worth it in the end. Not only is the title of this song "Stronger", the instrumentation and message of the track are strong and hold a lot of value. While listening, I was immediately focused on the prominent punchy drums. The layering of the piano tracks also really stood out while I was listening. The musical choices helped the song build sonically and pushed it forward. When Lucy sings, you can hear the vulnerability in her breathy vocals. My favorite part about her vocals in this song is that you can also hear her resilience and strength. Lucy does a great job of conveying the message of "Stronger" through her emotional storytelling. Lucy Korts is an indie-pop singer from Brisbane, Australia. She made her musical debut in 2017 when she took the stage at the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers festival. Since then, she's played more festivals and has opened up for many Australian artists like Cap Carter and Sarah McLeod. Lucy's talent has not gone unnoticed. Besides gaining recognition through commercial radio stations like B105, she was awarded the winner of the Brisbane City Council's 2023 QUBE Effect's 'Live Event Award'. It's clear Lucy is taking over the Australian music scene. She's definitely a rising star and one to keep your eyes on. Check out "Stronger" and give it a listen! Written By Alexa LaMalfa FOLLOW LUCY KORTS: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

  • Review: "Dead To Me" - Baby Said

    Baby Said's "Dead With Me" is a deeply introspective exploration of emotional isolation and the lingering remnants of a relationship that has long since faded. It echoes the paradox of feeling emotionally lifeless while still physically tethered to the past. Baby Said grapples with the emptiness that comes from holding on to something that no longer exists. It comes from both in themselves and in their connection with another person. The track resonates with anyone who's ever experienced unrequited love or the pain of a relationship that couldn't stand the test of time. Listeners may find themselves reflecting on their own personal ghosts --- whether it's an ex they can't quite forget or a friendship that drifted away without closure. The song's mood is one of quiet desperation, capturing those late-night moments when you're alone with your thoughts, trying to piece together the remnants of what could have been. "Dead With Me" is a haunting, melancholic ballad that blends elements of alternative rock and indie with a touch of ethereal, atmospheric flair. Baby Said's voice is soft yet powerful, almost ghostly, with a delicate rasp that gives each lyric weight and emotion. The tone is dark, yet oddly intimate, underscoring a sense of vulnerability. Throughout the song, it's mournful and introspective, evoking feelings of heartbreak and loss, but also a strange sense of calm. The instrumentation is sparse, with clean electric guitar, subtle synths, and a bass line that pulsates like a heartbeat beneath the surface. There's a wistful quality to the track, as if time is moving slowly, making you reflect on the fragility of relationships. The song evokes a bittersweet longing, leaving listeners with a sense of quiet yearning and contemplation. Baby Said is a UK based rock band of two Italian-Punjabi sisters, Veronica and Jess Pal. The origin for their name is from their favorite song, 'Baby Said' by Måneskin. Their musical journey began at a very young age, learning electric guitar and being drawn to the bass guitar. Their beginning of Baby Said started in the summer of 2021 --- they were quickly recognized and invited to play local venues. They have performed at over 200 gigs all over the country which built their confidence and skills. Their message they want to send to listeners is to emphasize self-belief and determination who has ever faced adversity while pursuing their dreams. Stream their newest EP, 'Dead To Me'! Written By Catherine Espejo FOLLOW BABY SAID: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Website  | YouTube

 poppassionblog@gmail.com

*WE DO NOT ACCEPT EMAIL SUBMISSIONS. Please don't send us your music through email. Check our contact page to find out how you can submit.

  • Instagram
  • Spotify
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • TikTok
  • YouTube

Pop Passion Blog (LLC) - Music Blog

Copyright © 2022-2023 Pop Passion Blog, All rights reserved.

bottom of page