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The world can be a dark and scary place at times. Its menacing claws can hook onto you with its deceptive lies and hurtful crimes—making you grow weary. In the beautiful poetic ballad, “War Outside Your Window,” Ethan Hodges pours out his soul to a magical track filled with entrancing percussion and celestial piano chords. Lyrically, he harnesses the feeling of defeat and compares the world to the song’s namesake: a war outside your window. In what seems like a typewriter beat, the song can almost be interpreted as a written note to someone who is struggling to make it, “You’re still hurting//But I still love you the same//Don’t you dare be ashamed.” Ethan Hodges reminds the listener that life’s battles may hook you in, but there is always a way to free yourself. “War Outside Your Window” makes you feel as though you’re a feather, floating above the scene and seeing everything for what it is. Creativity is the window to an artist’s soul. It’s their perception of art, making their work a unique charm. Ethan Hodges has a creative mind, incorporating unusual instruments like woodblocks hit by broomstick drum brushes, to develop a spell-binding sound and encapsulate a sense of wonderment. Written like a poem, Ethan Hodges begins the song with forthright lyrics, “There’s a war outside your window//It calls and beckons you out//And it scares you to death//When you think of the noise and the crowds” and ends it with a different, yet emboldened sentiment, “There’s a world outside your window//It’s calling and beckons you out//But I know you’ll get past it somehow,” bringing the song full circle. With its dreamy production and profound message, “War Outside Your Window” is a closet that leads you to a wonderland—permeated by a snowfall of hope, encouragement and reassurance. Ethan Hodges is a 20-year-old singer/songwriter and producer, based in Surrey, UK. From his childhood bedroom, he gained popularity during the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic by uploading covers onto TikTok. Ever since his rising fame on social media, Ethan Hodges has collected over 300k followers, and had a few covers go viral: “Slipping Through My Fingers,” “Happier Than Ever” and “Remember.” His consistency on social media has landed him a platform where he can reach people with his own music—enabling him to begin his solo career. “War Outside Your Window” is his first original song, and hopefully, his first of many. Written By Amanda Palacios FOLLOW ETHAN HODGES:

Waking up next to the person you love and realizing just how lucky you are is a fantastic feeling. Admiring how your love looks, and soaking up every moment with them is a dream come true for many people. Fat Cat Affair perfectly encapsulates this feeling in his new song “Up At Dawn“. This pop ballad is a delicate, love song, inspired by waking up next to the person you love. The instrumentation of “Up At Dawn“ is simple yet dreamy. Each instrument gets a moment to shine and is accompanied by gentle vocals that stick with you. The song builds on itself beautifully. Beginning with only the strumming of a guitar and Fat Cat's enchanting vocals, it emulates the easy feeling of awakening. As the song progresses we are introduced to more instruments. First piano is added then drums in the chorus. As each instrument is introduced you get nudged deeper and deeper into a sense of comfort. The lyrics are beautifully written and paint a pleasant picture of lovers lying in bed together early in the morning. Fat Cat Affair doesn’t shy away from simile and metaphor in his lyrics. Likening his object of affection to that of an angel assists in painting the full picture of the love they share. From beginning to end this song is an easy listen that warms the heart and gets stuck in your head like nothing else. Fat Cat Affair is the name of a cat that can’t be beat. Fat Cat is a mystery that I can’t get enough of. He is a multi-talented artist who plays many instruments in many genres. He predominantly Has his paws in genres such as funk, pop, jazz, and RnB. Though this is only his third single release, there’s more to come from the funky feline. Fat Cat has been working with several talented musicians and producers to create. What they call ‘moon songs’ Fat Cat has so much more talent to show the world. He’s definitely a cat to watch out for. Written By Kaiana Lee FOLLOW FAT CAT AFFAIR:

‘Out of Control’ has such a nostalgic sound to it, I love it! What was the songwriting process like for this track? Thornberg: Thank you so much! The song is about realizing a person you were in a relationship with was hiding their true colors. You eventually found out who they really were. Me and my producer Markus Sundvall (@marsunmusic) wrote the song in two days. We first started out with the main guitar riff which we took inspiration from "Starlight (Keep Me Afloat) and "If We’ll Ever Be Remembered" by Martin Garrix. We then developed the production from there. Something that's very important in all of my music is to keep the organic feel that goes along with the electronic elements. I really feel like we managed to keep the vibe of that in the song. What inspires you to continue creating music? Thornberg: I see songwriting as a kind of therapy. It's the best way to express my feelings. Therefore I don't think I'll ever stop making music. BUT being able to actually make an impact with my songs on other people is what I really dream of. It's why I continue to make music. It matters so much more to me if my songs can help someone get through their day or help out in bad times than to get a certain amount of streams on Spotify. I truly believe music can make a lasting impact on all of us. It's what helps us, inspires us, and fulfills us. What instruments do you play? Are there any you would like to learn? Thornberg: My main instruments are guitar and piano. Although I would love to learn saxophone someday, it has such a nice sexy sound! ;) Who would you say have been some of your biggest inspirations? Thornberg: My biggest inspirations are Ed Sheeran, Avicii, Tom Grennan, and John Mayer. Ed Sheeran really is one of the reasons why I wanted to have a career in music. He made the impossible possible. I mean who else in the world has stadium tours and stands alone on the stage with a guitar, loop-pedal and a microphone! Other than that I really enjoy some old school vibes from Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, and Joni Mitchell etc. When you aren’t creating music, what do you like to do? Thornberg: I'm currently an intern at Mojang Studios in Stockholm (the studio that developed Minecraft). So there's a ton of focus on work at the moment! Other than that I love acting, watching tv-series and movies. My favorite shows are Breaking Bad and The Sopranos. What can we look forward to next in terms of your musical career? Are there any upcoming projects you could talk about? Thornberg: We have so much music coming up, I mean SO MUCH music! 2023 is going to be a huge year. Follow me on Instagram at @thornbergofficial or on my Spotify to stay updated! :) Interviewed By Kendall Koval FOLLOW THORNBERG:

Need to hear a refreshing blend of pop styles? Essy’s latest single “Dear Kathleen” is a rock-pop anthem mixed with nostalgic synths and guitar solos. The modern production blends well with a tune reminiscent of 70’s rock and lyricism, creating a distinctly catchy sound. “Dear Kathleen” touches on many themes, from missing a loved one to the complexities of a romantic struggle. The track opens with ambient synth pads before quickly dropping into a stride with the percussive elements. Essy’s crisp vocals echo over the instrumentals, kicking the song’s first lines off memorably with the namesake phrase “Dear Kathleen”. The chorus features Essy talking about how she wishes she could call someone she’s missing dearly. Percussive elements briefly calm down for the bridge, the return for the second chorus. Following that is an excitingly nostalgic electric guitar riff. The song ends energetically with the final chorus being reinforced with extra background vocals and satisfyingly crunchy guitar harmonies. Making her debut on streaming platforms back in 2018, this Nashville based songwriter has been consistently releasing singles to date. Bringing together a multitude of pop styles into her songs, Essy has created a unique discography that stands out against her peers. With her other noteworthy tracks like “Pulse” and “Stranger” putting her in the spotlight in previous years, it seems that Essy just never disappoints. While your eyes and ears should be on Essy in the future, for now “Dear Kathleen'' deserves your full attention. Written By Ari Schweitzer FOLLOW ESSY:

Congratulations on the release of your new incredible single “Blame”!! Can you share your inspiration behind this new track? Jess: Thanks so much that means the world to me! I wrote Blame alongside the brilliant Tully Gun. Initially I had written the song acoustically, but upon recording the track, myself and Tully decided to change up some of the lyrics by adding new verses and lyrics, and we thought it would sound much better with more elements of Pop! The song is about picking yourself up when you fall down, and finding self love in letting go of people who no longer have your best interest at heart. What does your creative process look like? Any tips or tricks for escaping a creative funk? Jess: My creative process tends to vary, but most of the time when I’m writing songs I’ll come up with a melody idea first, and then add lyrics to that melody, or have lyric ideas or poetry that I’ve written down. I’ll then try to match the energy of the lyrics with complementary melodic influences, and chord patterns that bring the song to life! I find when I’m having a period of creative funk, that it’s best not to put as much pressure on yourself, and to use other creative outlets or activities such as painting, going for a walk or even seeing a friend can help you break back into your cycle of creativity. I personally find that when you put too much pressure on writing or trying to come up with a catchy song, it can actually stunt your creativity. Music is like riding a bike, it comes naturally once you learn how to do it, but sometimes you fall off and struggle to get back on again, but you just have to get back up and keep pedaling until you’re back on track. If you could collaborate with any artist, who would you pick and why? Jess: There are many brilliant artists that I’d absolutely love to work with, but I’d have to say the one artist that I would love to collaborate with on a track, would have to be Lana Del Rey as I find her music so ethereal and her lyrics are so beautifully written. I’ve always loved the way she writes, and her sound in general. What are some of your favorite things to do when you’re not making music? Jess: I love going out and experiencing life to the fullest, travelling to new places, going running or on long walks and being in nature. I also thoroughly enjoy sketching and painting because it was something I would do with my grandmother back in South Africa, as she is an incredible artist. I’ve also had a keen interest in filmmaking and directing since a young age, and vintage style photography. Where do you hope to see your career in five years? Jess: I hope to see myself my family and my friends happy, and be in a place where my music can reach more people and resonate with them, whilst uplifting and helping others find the words they wish to say. Do you have any more upcoming projects you can discuss or hint at? I’m so excited to hear more from you!! Jess: Thanks so much! I have a new song coming out very soon which is a cover of one of my favourite artists of all time, that I recorded with the brilliant Dave Skelton called ‘I think of you’ by Rodriguez! I can’t wait to share it as it’s such a special song to me and brings back so much nostalgia. Interviewed By Sarah Curry FOLLOW JESS:

Nicky Youre’s latest single is a captivating track that radiates positive energy and lifts the spirits of listeners. “Eyes On You” is about meeting someone and falling completely head over heels for them. Youre wrote the track after his special person moved to California, closing the distance between them. His happiness shines bright with the lyrics found throughout the track. The song immediately kicks off with Youre’s elated voice singing, “She new to California// She know that I adore her// She got me like, ooh, I don’t know what to do// Sweet tea like Arizona// One look and I’m a goner// You’re looking at me while they’re looking at you// All eyes on you.” He uses these lyrics to express his sweet devotion to her and his deep appreciation for their relationship. The track is a beautiful reminder for everyone to cherish those that you love, and never forget to tell them how you feel. “Eyes On You” is an upbeat pop song that consumes the listener with its catchy melody and touching lyrics. Youre immediately kicks off the track with the chorus, introducing the audience to the hype production right away. The lyrics have the innate ability to engulf the listener’s mind and remain in their heads for hours after listening. The words ebb and flow flawlessly with the production, creating the perfect dance song to blast in the car with your best friends. The corresponding music video continues the lighthearted atmosphere with an adorable story about Youre and Whiskers the Kitten. At the beginning of the video, Youre’s neighbor knocks on his door and asks if he can watch her new kitten. He tells her that he is not a cat person, but she does not take no as an answer. Whiskers is left with Youre, and the audience notices that the bond between human and feline quickly begins to flourish. Through multiple cute scenes, the cat is seen cuddling Youre, and the two are spending every moment together. The audience becomes just as attached to watching the pair bond, as Youre and Whiskers are attached to one another. When the cat’s owner returns, Youre is bummed that he has to part ways with Whiskers. But in the end, there is a happy ending and everyone involved is overjoyed. Nicky Youre is a 23-year-old singer-songwriter from Southern California. In 2020, he released his debut single, “Sex and Lemonade”, featuring producer, Laiki. In 2021, he released his second single, “Sunroof”, with producer, dazy. The track quickly went viral on TikTok, helping the song earn its spot on the top 5 of the Billboard Hot 500 and the Top 30 in Australia. Since then, he has released two more singles with recognizable producers. He has over 15.5 million monthly listeners on Spotify and he is the 311th most streamed artist on the platform worldwide. With only four singles released, Youre has already made an impressive impact on the music industry and continues to gain a loyal fan base. Written By Karlee Smith FOLLOW NICKY:

Having trauma from your past can really effect the relationships you have moving forward in life, whether it be romantically, friendly or even with your family members. You find yourself being extra cautious and skeptical of the thought that anyone could love or care about you. When you finally do find that unconditional love with someone, you can still struggle internally. You're scared you'll mess up the relationship, that one day they'll just decide to leave you because you're too "crazy". "Hey!" by PEPTALK narrates the timeline of finding someone who makes you feel good about yourself, but you're still anxious of getting too close because you may lose them due to the intrusive thoughts that tell you you're going to ruin it somehow. "Hey!" is genius. The lyrics are written on a god tier of creativity. They're relatable, they flow well and they sound great with the music. The soundscape of this song is the definition of "bop". This is the perfect song to scream at the top of your lungs while you are dancing around your bedroom alone. This song will make anyone with anxiety and trauma feel seen and understood. Every detail of this song was perfectly crafted into an incredible piece of art that is bound to be stuck in your head for ages. With hints of pop and nostalgic rock, this song will be on repeat in your car; I guarantee it. PEPTALK is a female trio from Australia! Consisting of Phoebe Sinclair (lead vocals), Jay-Lee Kwan (keys), and Lara Frew (bass), this is the ultimate friend group we all wish we had. Utilization their friendship and incredible chemistry, they took their songwriting talents and created the triple-threat project known as PEPTALK. Influenced by the unique sounds of HAIM, MUNA and Remi Wolf, PEPTALK started they're journey together earlier in 2022 starting with their independent release of their debut single, 'White Sneakers'. This is just the beginning for this group and they're already captivating the world with listeners and collaborators all the way from South Korea to across the world in Canada and the USA. You cannot miss out on this magical experience that is PEPTALK. Written By Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW PEPTALK:

“Tease” is infectiously catchy, a definite earworm! Judging by your Insta post, it seems to have found its mark – what was your reaction when he told you that he had no idea you felt that way because you never showed it? Gianna Mae: I laughed it off because I made it obvious that I liked him. It was definitely not because I didn’t show it. What made you realize that you were called to a career in music? Gianna Mae: I started singing when I was three years old because I was obsessed with the movie, “Annie.” Music has been a part of my life since before I remember. It was never a question of pursuing anything else. It’s just what I love to do. How would you describe your experience performing the National Anthem for the Chicago White Sox? Gianna Mae: It was an honor to be asked, let alone two years in a row. Singing for the White Sox was a goal of mine since I first started singing the anthem at ten years old for the local baseball teams. I really enjoy singing in front of large audiences, so it was exciting. My entire family is a huge Sox fan in general, so I felt all of their support on the field. How would you describe your songwriting process, and what helps you to create your best work? Gianna Mae: Typically, I get a phrase or melody stuck in my head, and I just voice memo it or jot it down in my notes app. I play around with cadences and notes after I find what chords I think will work best with the kind of song I’m writing. If I’m really stuck creatively, I just listen to the bands that inspire me the most, like Cage the Elephant or the Lumineers. “Tease” is your third release – of your songs; which are you the proudest of and why? Gianna Mae: Of course, there was a huge sense of accomplishment after finally releasing my first ever single, "PARASITE," but I’m extremely proud of them all. Each song represents a situation that I had to go through at some point throughout my life, and I’m very grateful to be able to put them in words and melodies for people to enjoy and relate to. What is coming up next for you on your musical journey? Gianna Mae: I’m glad you asked! I recorded a Christmas cover at the last minute, to be released on December 2nd. It’s a pop version of "Last Christmas" that I put my own spin on. I’m very excited for everyone to listen during the holidays! Interviewed By Vanessa Siebrass FOLLOW GIANNA MAE:

In "Hoops" by Capri Wagner, Wagner encounters her ex after not seeing them since their breakup. While Wagner is still unsure why the split occurred, it is clear her ex didn't take long after their separation before finding another lover. Although Wagner believes her ex means no harm in reaching out, she finds it difficult to reconnect after seeing them reminds her of a difficult time in her life. After all, Wagner details how much pretending she did to impress them, only to leave empty-handed. Perhaps due to her circumstances, Wagner is scared that pursuing a relationship with her ex again will make those memories a reality. Like many, Wagner believes in second chances, especially when it comes to love. But in "Hoops," she's not confident that her second chance will be with the person who once broke her heart. "Hoops," by Capri Wagner, is close to 4 minutes long, with a basic song structure of Verse-Chorus-Verse-Chorus-Bridge-Chorus. Following the mood of the track's cover art, "Hoops" is electronic-based, made up of synth chords, basses, arpeggiators, risers, and pads that create a bubbly and dream-like atmosphere perfect for representing Wagner's reminiscing of a past infatuation, and the difficulty in being ready to move on. Aside from the melodic instrumentation is a simple percussive pattern that changes slightly and mainly provides momentum for the track. But capturing the feeling of the story better than the record's production is Wagner's vocal performance, in which the use of her chest voice and belting for a majority of the song sells her desire for wanting to release emotions held captive for too long. What perhaps gives this vocal freedom are the long stretched-out phrases that also allow emphasis on powerful lines like "I had really thought back then/It'd end up being us in the end/But we didn't fit in that category/In the final pages of our story." However, it is no doubt all of the song's elements working in tandem make "Hoops" by Capri Wagner a convincing listen. Capri Wagner is a singer-songwriter from Newton, Pennsylvania. Wagner began her music career on Youtube, where she shared videos of herself performing song covers and original music until the debut of her first single, hosted by Ne-Yo, "Raining In LA," on streaming services. Following the debut single, Wagner released "Drowning" in the same year and "My Angel" in 2022, which later gained Wagner recognition from music industry veteran Kelly Clarkson and encouraged features in publications such as Courier Times, Rolling Stone, BuzzMusic, and more. Wagner also made guest appearances on live television for news networks WFMZ-TV and FOX 29 Philly. Since "My Angel," Wagner collaborated with Tommy Boi on "Out of my Head" before dropping her latest single, "Hoops." And considering Wagner's impact on the industry in the past year, her discography proves promising and is now available on all streaming platforms. Written By Jeffrey Ade FOLLOW CAPRI:

With much anticipation, Peyton Marie’s new song is out now. Listeners can finally hear her single, “Dead To Me” while they think about their exes. Peyton wrote a song after being cheated on and lied to about it and she reflects on this experience in her lyrics. Peyton’s music style as she describes is “ music to bury your ex to” and she stayed on theme with this new release. Her music explores areas of dark and punk pop styles that separate her from other artists. Peyton has exclaimed “Dead To Me” is one of her favorite songs she's released so far and I can definitely understand why. If you're looking for your next angry break-up anthem, Look no further. “Dead To Me” is a high-energy track with angry lyrics that are relatable to anyone who's been cheated on before. Like many people in unhealthy relationships, Peyton was sick of being lied to and turned to her music. With that, listeners can feel the expression of her strong emotions throughout. Her song, “Dead to Me” Peyton uses lyrics like: “Now what we had is 6 feet down and I finally dug myself out” and “Don’t call me baby you’re so dead to me” to help further get her point across. When I first listened to Peyton, I was reminded of similar artists like Avril Lavinge and Paramore. Following Peyton's latest single, “growing pains” I had high standards for this new track, and I was not let down. Peyton is redefining the genre with each release, proving to everyone that pop music doesn’t have to have just one type of sound. Peyton Marie is a 20-year-old alternative pop artist based in Nashville, Tennessee. Since her first release on Spotify in 2021, she’s accumulated an Impressive 4,800 monthly average listeners despite only having released a few singles. Currently, “Dead to Me” is now Peyton's 4th single released on Spotify. Her third and most popular single, “growing pains” was played over 28,000 times to date and was also released in 2022. This is followed by “MISS ME TOO” and her debut single, “Liar Liar” in 2021. Besides being an independent artist, Peyton is also a music business student at Belmont University. Her music style is Influenced by artists like Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, and Madison Beer. Peyton is definitely an artist to watch. After this release, I am excited to see what she does next. Written By Jenna Barton FOLLOW PEYTON:

'Nightshade’ is such a fun track, I have had it on repeat all day! What is the story behind the track? Madison: Thank you! I’m so glad to hear that you’re enjoying it! The concept for ‘Nightshade’ started because I was really enticed by the word & thought the poisonous plant ‘deadly nightshade’ could be a cool subject. I love to approach my songwriting with a story-telling aspect, fantasy elements, strong concepts & lots of interesting metaphors (which I could use easily here)! Like poisonous nightshade, I’ve had some pretty toxic romantic history to be able to draw from as inspiration. The track paints the story of opening your heart to someone new & realizing when it’s too late, that they are soooo toxic for you and are completely draining your life force. I wrote this track in Copenhagen a few years ago in a studio session with the killer producer & writer Frederik Carstens. When deciding on my next song to release, I flicked the demo of ‘Nightshade’ to absolute legend Oliver Lundström, who has produced my released material to date. We both loved the tracks potential, so it was a no-brainer! If ‘Nightshade’ had a music video, what do you think it would look like? Madison: It would be very much in a fantasy world & quite avant-garde. Telling the lyrical story, but toying with Hansel & Gretel themes like being trapped by a witch or something cool like that. *Insert YouTube Video* What is your personal favorite out of the tracks you have released so far? You can only pick one! Madison: Hmm, I am Running! It’s near to my heart. What city would you love to be able to perform at? Madison: Berlin would be super fun! Who would you say have been some of your biggest influences? Madison: Lady Gaga & Sia for sure. They are powerhouse artists/writers in the pop world, & are very authentic in their artistic direction. Hans Zimmer is a big one too, along with Florence + the Machine. What is some of the best advice you have received? Madison: It’s simple, but stays with me: Believe in yourself. Keep dreaming. Keep writing. Keep going. Interviewed By Kendall Koval FOLLOW MADISON:

"Undercover Lover" by Fior and produced by Scott Storch is a sleek and attention-grabbing pop song. This addictive track will have you immediately humming and clicking replay; it’s beautiful. Fior’s deeper-register voice is to die for; her voice sounds so smooth and clean. The production on this track needs to be addressed; Scott Storch did a fantastic job bringing this song to life. The writing is simple and witty, perfect if you want a song to vibe to with the windows down in a car full of your favorite people in the whole world. This song reminds me of the early to mid-2010s in the best way possible. I was almost reminded of The 1975 while listening to this piece. "Undercover Lover" tells the story of a relationship that has to be sneaky and secret. When walking past them, you can't even spare a glance, but when you are alone together, they remind you that they know every inch of you. Despite being a secret, your bond is incredibly strong and resilient. The surreptitious relationship is versitatle that is powerful not just due to the sexual component. Miami, Florida-based up-and-coming artist Fior is already turning heads. The young singer-songwriter caught the eye of popular producer Scott Storch, who has worked with household names such as Beyonce, Christina Aguilera, and Dr. Dre. The rising artist was named one of People's "Emerging Artists To Watch," a very impressive feat. Fior posts personality tidbits along with her songs on her Instagram, being very proud of her sun sign, which is Taurus, by the way! Written By Emma Kimberli FOLLOW FIOR: