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- The Three Major Labels - Warner Music Group, Sony Music, and Universal Music Group
You may or may not know that the music industry is ruled by three major labels: Sony Music, Warner Music Group, and Universal Music Group. But it hasn’t always been this way - over the past 100 years, a competitive market has been consolidated into three major record labels who dominate 80% of the global music market. These three house dozens of labels, distributors, and publishers who each have thousands of artists signed to them. All three of these majors have a long history in the music industry, and have changed hands more times than we can count. So, let’s talk a bit about each of the majors! Warner Music Group Warner Music Group is the third largest music rights holder. The group’s origins can be traced to Warner Bros. Records. The Warner Bros. studio created the record label in 1958 to rival Paramount Pictures’ label. They first acquired Frank Sinatra’s label, Reprise Labels, in the early 1960s, but were eventually sold to Seven Artist Productions, forming Warner Bros. Seven Arts. After acquiring Republic Records in 1967, Kimney National Company bought out the entire company two years later. Kimney merged all the labels under a new parent company, Warner Music Group, after they acquired Elektra Records and Nonesuch Records. Kimney rebranded as Warner Communications, selling off their non-entertainment assets, and bought publishing house Chappell Music, which is now named Warner Chappell Music, in 1987. Warner Communications sold to Time Warner in 1990, which merged with AOL eleven years later. Warner Music Group has gone public twice since then: in 2004 and in 2020. Warner Music Group’s biggest labels are Reprise, Atlantic, Sub Pop, Fueled by Ramen, Parlophone, Elektra, Roadrunner, and Altco (the last three are owned by Atlantic). Some of Warner’s biggest artists are Ed Sheeran, Cardi B, Bruno Mars, Charli XCX, NLE Choppa, and Dua Lipa. Their distribution arm is called Alternative Distribution Alliance, which provides distribution services to breaking artists. Warner Chappell Music is the publishing company under Warner, and they also represent songwriters such as Amy Allen, Benson Boone, Teddy Swims, and more. Chappell houses more than a million copyrights of every music genre spanning decades. Sony Music Sony Music (Entertainment) owned by the Japanese company Sony Corporation. Sony Music started off as American Record Corporation (ARC) in 1929, which was formed by a series of mergers. Almost ten years later, CBS acquired ARC and renamed it Columbia Recording Corporations; they later shortened it to Columbia Records. After its great success in the 1950s, they opened a sister label, Epic Records, and Columbia Records was renamed once again to CBS Records in 1966. Sony came into the picture twenty-one years later in 1987 when they bought CBS Records, which was renamed to Sony Music Entertainment afterwards. One of their biggest moves was acquiring Bertelsmann Music Group. Most recently, Sony Music Group was founded in 2019, which now houses Sony Music Entertainment and Sony’s publishing house, Sony/ATV. Some of Sony’s biggest labels are Columbia Records, RCA Records, Epic Records, and Arista Records. Some of their most prominent artists are Adele, Harry Styles, Beyonce, SZA, Miley Cyrus, and Future. The Orchard is their full-service music distribution company; however, despite being owned by Sony, they operate independently. Sony/ATV, their publishing house, is in charge. Sony owns the world’s largest publishing company, named Sony Music Publishing, and they have many famous catalogs under their belt, like The Beatles, Queen, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Carole King, and more. They also have many catalogs of newer artists, like Rihanna, Beyonce, Ed Sheeran, Lady Gaga, Cardi B, and more. Universal Music Group UMG as we know it wasn’t founded until 1996, but you can trace the company back to 1962, when MCA Inc. (now known as Universal Pictures) merged with American Decca. MCA was sold to a Japanese company, but Seagram, a Canadian multinational conglomerate, took an 80% stake in MCA in 1995. The following year, MCA was renamed to Universal Pictures and its music division was renamed Universal Music Group, and after buying music company PolyGram, Seagram was acquired by French-based Vivendi. Vivendi bought the remaining 20% stake, which gave them full ownership of UMG. UMG’s biggest labels are Capitol Music Group, Interscope Records, Republic Records, Def Jam Records, and Island Records. They have many big artists signed, like Taylor Swift, Kendrick Lamar, The Weeknd, Bad Bunny, and Ariana Grande. Their publishing division is named Universal Music Publishing Group, which is in charge of catalogs of many artists, including Bob Dylan, Taylor Swift, Alicia Keys, Sabrina Carpenter, and Kendrick Lamar. Unlike the other majors, UMG doesn’t have one main distributor - they distribute through their various labels and subsidiaries. Written By Lauren DiGiovanni Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.
- Review: "Cry Baby" - Lily Lane
Soul Pop Princess Lily Lane has outdone herself once again with her powerfully sentimental single, "Cry Baby". The former Queen of Hearts stresses the importance of taking the time to feel one's emotions freely and deeply, letting each tear fall unapologetically. Combatting the notion that our tears make us weak, Lane makes a strong commentary on human nature and encourages us to fully accept our low points as they come. Vulnerable, raw, and an honest critique of society, Lane forces fans to revel with themselves and take an inward look at what it means to not be ashamed of one's emotions. With a compelling music video to accompany, "Cry Baby" offers fans a beautiful experience and vessel to outpour their own struggles. Lane's "Cry Baby" is a harmonious composition full of vulnerability and acceptance, serenading us with its catchy melody and lyrical depth. Lane commands our attention with her rich, alto tone, a mature sound that soothes the ear all while leaving us anticipating the next lyric. Her soulfulness is simply infectious, causing us to feel both the beat and her words in our chests. The backing instrumental is simple, yet intense, preparing the listener for the heart-stirring chorus. The drums kick in alongside Lane's chest voice, succeeding in creating an emotionally impactful sound that lingers with us throughout the rest if the song. "Cry Baby" comforts us, uplifts us, and reminds us that there is value in feeling unashamedly. A beautiful reflection of Lane's character, vocal range and agility, and her talent, this track tops our playlist of gripping anthems. Lily Lane is a true powerhouse, and not just in terms of her voice. Graduating from the Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music at NYU, Lane has consistently honed her craft, transforming herself into the iconic idol fans know and love today! Moving from NYC to LA, Lane's career hit the ground and hasn't stopped running, releasing her debut EP "Nothin' But Trouble" followed by her sophomore, "Queen of Hearts," Lane has been supplying fans with plenty of hits, anthems, and memorable melodies in addition to expanding her colorful discography. Uplifting through her music and advocacy, Lane has solidified herself as creative breath of fresh air through her authentic, relatable, and candid artistry. Lane has been recognized by the House of Blues, Freeform's "Pretty Little Liars," and Netflix, putting herself out there in various forms of media and engagement. Full of integrity, passion, and devotion towards her music, Lily Lane is the name to remember. As always, stay tuned for more updates and releases, and follow the links down below! Written By Pejah Carr FOLLOW LANE: Instagram | Spotify | YouTube
- Review: "By Your Side" - Paperwhite
When the light in the darkness hypnotizes us away from the days we are ready to leave behind, we know the love we've been searching for is by our side. The love we were meant to find is the fire in the cold as we leave the winter for the summer, and our hearts are ready to bloom in the beginning of a new life with that special someone. As the rain clears and the days grow brighter, that new found love will continue to leave us hypnotized to the happy state we never want to leave. Paperwhite leaves us in a trance as they describe that special feeling when we know that love is now part of our story. When the fire stays close to us in the dark and cold weather, the warmth they give us will conquer all as we wait for brighter days ahead. An electric, upbeat melody pulls us in as Katie's gentle, smooth voice is the sweet talk that hypnotizes us by Paperwhite's side. She describes the special, almost strange new feeling they have given to her. She's hypnotized to their light as everything feels right when she's by their side, and it's the freedom she's been ready for. The fire now lights up the dark, and the warmth brings her comfort. The love is almost unreal, but it is the reality she lives in as she has now found the other half to her heart. The melody reflects the trance we are left in by that love as the catchy, hard beat plays in our heads. Paperwhite's "By Your Side" plays on as the fire continues to light up our souls and the warmth it brings lets our new beginning ignite. Based in New York, siblings Katie Marshall, a singer and songwriter, and Ben Marshall, a songwriter and producer, have teamed up to form the powerful duo, Paperwhite. They debuted in 2014 with their EP "Magic" and over the past decade, they have continued to make their mark in the music industry. They have received praise from Billboard, Buzzfeed, and Vice, and they have received a place on a variety of editorial playlists on Spotify. In 2016, they released their second EP "Escape" which continued to captivate more listeners. In 2023, they came back into the music scene after a brief hiatus with their single "Unfold", and they plan on releasing another EP in the spring reflecting their dreamy, synth pop style that has created waves in the music industry! Written By Nini Alano FOLLOW PAPERWHITE: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube
- Review: "DUMB" - EMM
Photo Credits: K. Sarrico Want to feel like an EMMPRESS? Off of her new album, BLACK DIAMOND , EMM’s “Dumb” will have you feeling that way! With this dance pop jam, you’ll often catch yourself humming the catchy chorus while cleaning or working. “DUMB” goes into how men act when they treat women horribly, and how women should never bow down to treatment like this. Diamonds should never be treated as the lesser, and that’s exactly what EMM tells listeners. Don’t forget that you are enough, even if someone tells you any different. If you’re going through a toxic situation with a man who puts you down, put “DUMB” on and remind yourself that sometimes, boys can just be dumb and you’re it, girl! BLACK DIAMOND is a performance art piece designed to show how women’s traits are often vilified in society. Misogyny being the main issue brought to light, “DUMB” hones in on this by looking at the aggressors and letting them know how they’re acting. This electronic, grungy beat hits this message hard, along with the heavenly vocals carrying listeners high into the sky. The story of the song tells listeners of how EMM doesn’t need a silly man to bring her down or feel like she needs to depend on him, and instead tells him that she’s that woman, especially with the last few lines in the pre-chorus: “I never needed your blood / Never needed the crutch / I was always enough”. The distortion makes the instrumental crunchy, creating a mysteriously eerie tone. The different elements within, like the pulsating drones and the dj screeching, give it a dark house vibe that everyone can bop to. “DUMB” comes together as one with the message, the vibe, and the dance as a catchy yet powerful song. EMM is an accomplished musician, along with being an award-winning classical pianist, guitarist, songwriter and producer. Based out of Los Angeles, EMM is a beacon of hope for young girls, especially with building a reputation with her music that showcases women’s power in a world that constantly oppresses it. With battling many issues like trauma, depression, and social image as a young teen in a tiny Michigan town, songwriting became a key to survival for her, along with moving to New York to pursue her passion. She crafted her first mixtape in 2016, Burning In The Dark , in her little North Hollywood apartment, and then went on to perform at multiple arenas like the Staples Center and Dodgers Stadium. Since 2018, she has built a super-hero story within her three mixtapes “EMERALD”, “RUBY”, AND “SAPPHIRE”, “BLACK DIAMOND” being the next project in the series. This story also includes a documentary, a live show, and a music video short film. She is a very successful content creator and artist, acting all on her own with no label and no financial help. More in store for EMM is a video game, an animated series, and a comic adding into her heroine universe. If you loved “DUMB” and the BLACK DIAMOND album as much as I did, be sure to give EMM a follow with the links down below! Written By Nevaeh Scott FOLLOW EMM: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube
- Review: "The Crime" - Taylor Bickett
As we celebrate Women's History Month, honoring and empowering the women of the world could never be more important than it currently is. In the midst of a rapidly shifting world, women everywhere have unfortunately had their minds, bodies, and souls challenged as misogyny continues to rise. Too often women are the targets of gender-based violence, threats, and hatred. However, these issues are often brushed aside by society; deemed as something that should only be discussed in whispers to protect the perpetrators instead of protecting the targeted women. These issues must be addressed, and what better way to spread awareness than with meaningful music that can transcend all bounds to prompt discussion? Taylor Bickett does not shy away from calling attention to the painful reality of women everywhere in her heartbreakingly vulnerable song “The Crime". The fear of unprompted violence is one all women know and carry with them, as well as the conflicting advice from society that demands women to be kind or ignore their aggressors. Even when women do what they are taught to do, it is often not enough to avoid danger because the issue does not stem from women and what choices they make. The issue stems from a society that removes culpability from male aggressors and unfairly places the blame on innocent women. Bickett openly spreads awareness on all of these issues as she bravely reveals the horrific assault she once experienced. Even if you cannot directly relate to Bickett's experience, the impactful lyrics will definitely resonate with you. She beautifully gives voice to the shared experience of women, and all the unjust punishments they receive from the world due to no crime other than "the crime of being a woman". “The Crime" is an incredibly powerful and moving song that represents the experiences of women in such a raw way that it feels cathartic, yet somber at the same time. The gentle sounds of piano keys and airy background music slowly builds at the opening of the song until Bickett's beautiful, soft voice cuts through and immediately grasps listeners. The piano adds a perfect touch of emotion, especially as its tempo increases during the chorus of the song to compliment her powerful vocals. Her tone is melancholy and soft as she grapples with the feeling of being “still lost" due to the many struggles she faces as a woman following an assault. By the chorus, her tone shifts, still laden heavily with emotions of grief, but stronger and louder – like a desperate outcry to have her internal pains heard and understood by everyone. While listening to “The Crime", the surrounding world seems to pause, and you can do nothing but focus on Taylor Bickett's impactful lyrics and voice. Bickett pours her heart out in “The Crime" and brings suppressed emotions in listeners to the surface as they recognize and relate to the storytelling. “The Crime" is not just a song, but a masterful work of art and female solidarity with a deeply emotional listening experience. Taylor Bickett openly shares her experiences while also projecting the silenced voices of women everywhere in a way that is brave, fearless, and truly inspiring. Indianapolis native Taylor Bickett has been writing music for as long as she can remember, with many impressive projects and achievements that make her an unforgettable artist. With a powerful voice, deeply personal lyrics, and impactful messages conveyed through her music, Taylor Bickett has amassed a dedicated following that relates to her songs. Her latest song “The Crime", released on March 6th, 2025, shows the singer's vulnerability and dedication to transparency as she voices the struggles women face. One of Bickett's previous songs released in 2022, “Quarter Life Crisis”, was a major hit, first introducing the world to the talented singer. “Quarter Life Crisis" went viral on the app TikTok shortly after its release, and has accumulated over 35 million streams on Spotify. Her 2023 EP “grown up and lonely" was another great success that showcased her honest music, furthering her incredible rise to fame. Taylor Bickett will be playing headline shows during the Spring and Summer this year in multiple cities, such as Nashville, New York, Washington, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Additionally, the singer partnered with PLUS1 so that $1 per ticket goes to the nonprofit organization “ The Circle ” that is dedicated to supporting and empowering women to end gender-based violence. With each new song, Taylor Bickett continues to show her authentic self and creates a safe space for listeners to relate to her, leaving everyone yearning for more of the heartfelt stories she has to offer through her music. Written By Kyler Griggs FOLLOW TAYLOR BICKETT: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube
- Review: "Ottoman" - ASHY
"It focuses on challenges I’ve had in the music industry and in life in general when I’ve been underestimated,” is how singer/songwriter ASHY describes her new hit single “Ottoman.” The lyrics in this vibey and electronic song have a profound depth that extenuates the singer’s struggle to be noticed in the industry. The lyrics directly reflect how as a woman of color, she must work ten times harder to be recognized for the same work as her peers. In such an unprecedented time, ASHY’s powerful message is highlighted through her voice and should be recognized. The music and production of “Ottoman” go hand in hand to promote the overall message of the song. The pronounced beat and minor tone enhance the power of ASHY’s voice as she acknowledges the way she—and many other artists—is treated in the industry. The catchy hit has sharp and ominous qualities, easily allowing any listener to feel entranced. Having to prove your worth to a group while others are accepted without protest can feel frustrating, but ASHY makes herself and her work known. The creative narrative and important issue ASHY has crafted take on a new meaning, allowing those who resonate with it to have a space to relate. Hailing from New Zealand, ASHY encompasses a wide range of musical sub-genres, including R&B, dance, and contemporary. Although she has an extensive résumé, her sound is uniquely polished, with glittering vocals and catchy melodies. Across all platforms, ASHY has accumulated over 3.5 million streams, and in October 2021, she signed with Concord Music Publishing. Since then, her promising career has gained traction in the live festival industry, with performances around the globe. “Ottoman” easily adds to ASHY’s incredible repertoire, showcasing a rising star in the making. Written By Adalyn Reichenberger FOLLOW ASHY: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube
- Review: "Purple rain" - tonka._.b
“Purple rain” explores the loss of losing someone you once loved through different hues. No matter where you are or who you are with reminders of someone you once loved are everywhere. “Purple rain” gives off this feeling of no escape with heartaches and wanting to run far away. With constant thoughts of wanting to reach out and tell them just how you feel. Until finally you realize that this feeling of no escape is just a feeling. That soon time will pass on and ultimately the old you and your feelings will wash away with it just like the hues on a paint palette. When creating this song tonka._.b used a voice software to transform her vocals into instruments to bring the song to life. “Purple rain” is a mix of EDM with a beat that reminds you of past times. When first listening to this song it reminded me of old school R&B mixed with pop which is my favorite kind of music. At the beginning of the song, she draws you in with her high pitch tune followed by her beautifully written lyrics. She sings with great power and soul, which makes you want to just get up and dance. Her lyrics like “My eyes go heavy, it closes the view / Gotta say goodbye to this old hue” which are extremely relatable not only to losing a love but to also losing yourself. “Purple rain” is such a provoking song that makes you think about past relationships and how you’ve grown and overcame hardships. tonka._.b is from London where she was raised by her father who is also a musician. She spent a few years on the road with her father learning all about music. At the age of 10 she began to have a passion for music by listening to her father on stage. tonka._.b produces her own music as a singer/songwriter still making time to DJ often. Alongside with her musical endeavors she has her own radio show on LoveLife Radio DAB where she combines different genres together to create amazing mixes. Although tonka._.b is just starting off in her musical journey her music is absolutely electric and you can follow along her journey below. Be sure to check out her latest EP after listing to “Purple rain.” Written By Julissa Garcia FOLLOW tonka._.b: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube | SoundCloud *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator
- Review: "Tainted Heart" - Sarah Pearson
“Tainted Heart” by Sarah Pearson explores the hard truth with losing a piece of yourself. Though breakups can be extremely hard and draining no one really tells you about your first broken heart. There isn’t a manual to help you understand why you feel the way you do and to be quite honest, had there been a manual no one would read it because no one wants to accept that truth. Your first broken heart brings upon so many different emotions that you can’t even begin to deal with. You are stuck in this state of shock and confusion not knowing what to do or how to react. Eventually after some time has passed you will start to overcome your dismay and grief, but the weight that engulfs your heart with your first love will always linger. Click here to listen to "Tainted Heart! " Sarah Pearson’s “Tainted Heart” features the most beautifully played piano throughout the entire song. The chords gave off such an elegant tone which immediately brought joy to my ears. The melody played in “Tainted Heart” is my new favorite sound, it gives off such dreamy and soothing vibe as if everything in that moment is going to be okay. Surrounded over the piano chords are her delicate but powerful vocals. The way Pearson carries her voice in each verse is absolutely breathtaking. She takes what is such a rough time in anyone’s life and turns it into something that makes you want to rediscover yourself and find peace. Sarah Pearson is an artist from Cape Town, South Africa whose genre gives off the feel of nostalgic energy with relatable present-day vibes. While she is a singer/songwriter she also plays a number of instruments making her music range in style. Though she is a fairly new artist that has not stopped her from making her dreams of being a musician come true. “Tainted Heart” is her first single to be released which also serves as to what will come in her debut album scheduled to release within the next coming years. I personally can’t wait to hear what comes next for Pearson and her career. As always don’t forget to follow her socials below and to be a part of her musical journey. Written By Julissa Garcia FOLLOW Sarah Pearson: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Website | YouTube *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator
- Review: "Everything From Here" - Anthony Hemsey
Every day is a new start, a chance to get out and change who you are to make a difference. In life you can be anyone you want to be, and you can do anything you want to do. We get by from a little help by those who are near and dear to us. Whether they are standing right beside us or cheering from far away, the feeling of their love never fades away. You can change your career, lifestyle, habits, dreams, styles and so much more a million times until only you are satisfied with the outcome. In the end those who support you will still be right there encouraging you every step of the way. Anthony Hemsey’s “Everything From Here” gives us hope that we can do anything in life if we just go out and do it. Click here to listen to "Everything From Here "! “Everything From Here” begins with a beautiful piano instrumental background with gentle layered vocals. Listening to just the first twenty seconds I was immediately hooked. The melody of this song quite literally screams aspirations of hope and belonging. It reminds me of the summertime with the euphoric vocals and beats, making it the perfect song for your uplifting vibe playlist. “Everything From Here” not only has a great rhythm but lyrics like “Can’t knock us down cause spirits own this town / Just look around, it’s a lively crowd” are extremely inspiring. Overall, the song has a well balance between the vocals and instrumentals while also leaving room for their message to shine. Anthony Hemsey released his first single “Just Fine” in 2022 with Jemma Johnson . Since then, he has released singles frequently. His creation of music comes from his career working in the advertising and television production industry as a Creative Director/Media specialist. All of Hemsey’s music has elements of energetic beats and inspiring lyrics with different artists contributing as well. “Everything From Here", which features arrangements by newcomer Dejjar, is just one of many great feel-good songs by Hemsey. Don’t forget to check out his socials below and follow along on his musical journey. Written By Julissa Garcia FOLLOW Anthony Hemsey: Instagram | Spotify FOLLOW Jemma Johnson: Instagram | Spotify *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator
- Review: "Six" - Rose Betts
Rose Betts’ most recent album There Is No Ship perfectly blends fantasy and reality, especially seen in track one, “Six”. The album is inspired by a line in J. R. R. Tolkien’s classic series The Lord of the Rings, in which a character states “There is no ship that can hear me hence” in reference to her choice to give up her immortality to live a human life with the man that she loves. Betts ties this theme throughout her album and “Six” with the idea that “...there are some things about yourself that you can never change. Where you grew up, the bones of the city that formed you, your country, and your heritage.” This track is a song about familial patterns and interactions, and takes inspiration from Betts’ Celtic heritage for instrumentals and overall sound. Betts’ voice is rich and almost siren-like, heightened by her maritime references and plotline. The track opens with setting the scene of a violent shipwreck, singing, “Six dead pieces on the seashore / That the waves brought in to clean”. She sings over a plucking violin line that feels innately Irish and guides the story along. In the chorus, Betts sings the lines “Blood and tears / I'm getting tired of / Facing the earth” repeated twice, with a beautiful harmonic riff on the second ‘I’m’. Her voice is smooth and flows beautifully with the patterns she has created. This track closes out with the same chorus and refrain lyrical and sound pattern that it opens with, giving the illusion of a true storyline. Rose Betts is a London born and LA based singer-songwriter coming off of the release of her sophomore album, There Is No Ship. She labels herself as an “Irish folk-teller”, stating that her music "’sounds like’ what The Lord of The Rings ‘looks like’”. Nostalgic and fantastical is her brand, and she executes this vision perfectly. With over 500,000 monthly Spotify listeners and almost 20 million streams on her 2023 single “Irish Eyes”, Grammy nominated Betts self released her first EP, The Stars Look Down, in 2021 and her career has only been on the ups since. Make sure to follow the social medias below to stay tuned for more music from Rose Betts. Written By Tessa Maddaloni FOLLOW ROSE BETTS: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube
- Review: "Matilda" - Housewife
Have you ever lost your bike before? If your childhood was anything like mine, you’d have spent evenings biking around the neighbourhood with your friends in the summer, and you’ll have formed a lot of good memories riding around on that bike. And then when you lose it, you feel like you’ve lost something more than just a bike. It’s such a simple thing, but sometimes we attach great remembrances to seemingly nondescript items. Housewife’s “Matilda” is exactly that, singing about that feeling of loss and grief, of only having the memories to cling onto. The track is all glittery melancholia, soft and temperate with those perfect touches of indie and alt-pop influences. It’s airy, lofty, like a cool splash of water, but with plenty of depth to its writing that’ll make you think on the lyrics for their deeper, double meaning. I always love a song that has wickedly good songwriting. Although “Matilda” may seem as if just talking about a bike called Matilda, a deeper examination of its writing will allow listeners to see that the track is more about the poignant grief that comes with losing a relationship that we value greatly. Decorated in measured instrumentals, a rhythmic percussion and gliding guitar, the track is heightened by its pondering soundscape, meandering, as if looking for something. I adore how you can apply the message in “Matilda” to anything you’ve lost in life– maybe that truly is a bike for some people, but I think it’s equally applicable to relationships, friendship and romance, whatever that may be for you. The lines that discuss Matilda specifically illuminate how we feel about those we have lost unwillingly; one goes, “I swear if you took Matilda / I think I might kill ya”, and another that says, “If you see Matilda / Just tell her I miss her”. There is the anger that lingers, but also the heartbreaking emptiness that comes with missing something or somebody. “Matilda” is a story with multiplicities in perspective, and there is something so deep that rests just underneath the surface of this track that makes it so interesting. With a smooth-as-butter soundscape and intelligent songwriting, this track has something for everybody. Canadian singer-songwriter Housewife, AKA Brighid Fry (she/they), is creating sparkling indie rock suffused with poignant, exploratory songwriting. Housewife’s music often touches on important topics that deal with being a young, queer, AFAB person in an industry dominated by men. They first broke into the industry as one half of Moscow Apartment, the duo having won a Canadian Folk Music award for their debut EP; later, they changed their name and became a solo project in 2022. Their debut single “Be You” released in 2018, and was followed in 2020 by their debut EP “Better Daughter”. “Matilda” is the fourth track on their latest EP “Girl Of The Hour”. If you enjoyed “Matilda”, I highly recommend checking out the rest of Housewife’s vast discography, and also dropping her a follow! Written By Alexa Leung FOLLOW HOUSEWIFE: Instagram | Spotify | Facebook | YouTube | Website
- Review: "king of the world" - fin peach
Cover Art: @shantikot “king of the world” by fin peach paints a picture of a typical Los Angeles socialite. Many have aspirations to move there and become big, whether it be in an attempt to become a musician, actor, influencer, etc… Others, however, instead want to live the typical “Los Angeles lifestyle” by going to lots of parties and living in a mansion in an upscale neighborhood. This socialite insults fin peach for wanting to move to Los Angeles, even though this is most likely hypocritical of them because they were probably once in the same position as him. fin peach wants to move because he has actual musical aspirations, meanwhile the person insulting him just wants the luxurious lifestyle that comes with living there. Like the lyrics, “king of the world” features a production and instrumentation style that originated from California, more specifically SoCal, where Los Angeles is. Coastal music mixed with modern indie pop are the main sonical components of the single. It sounds as if you’re walking on a boardwalk by the ocean in Venice Beach and you hear the song on a nearby radio. Acoustic guitar and a lowkey beat are meshed to fit the vibe of the song, along with secondary guitar chords located in different parts of the song. fin peach also has a fantastic singing voice, and provides great harmonies throughout the song. “king of the world” has great melodies, both in the production and in the vocals. fin peach is a music artist from Texas. After developing a love for music when he was younger, his introduction to releasing music was in October 2021 when he was featured on “Come Around” by Diskonnect . He has been featured on multiple songs since, and he released his debut solo single “halloween” in October 2024. He then released the follow-up single “sick” in December of the same year. Along with a lineup of other artists, fin peach will be performing at Hotel Ziggy in Los Angeles as part of the WE FOUND NEW MUSIC showcase on March 18, 2025. fin peach is an incredible and immensely talented artist and I can't wait to see what’s next for him! Written By Ashley Adams FOLLOW FIN PEACH: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube