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Tag: New Album

  • Exclusive Interview: Andrew McMahon Talks All Things Something Corporate Comeback And More!

    Exclusive Interview: Andrew McMahon Talks All Things Something Corporate Comeback And More!

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    If you’re anything like us, then the name Andrew McMahon is a staple when you think of the music that has soundtracked your life. From Something Corporate to Jack’s Mannequin to Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness, Andrew has quite the discography in his back pocket. We were lucky enough to get to chat with Andrew all about Something Corporate reuniting, releasing ‘Death Grip,’ and now ‘Happy,’ as well as going on tour!

    Stream ‘Happy’ now!

    Hi Andrew! Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with us today! To start us off, how would you sum up who you are as an artist to anyone who is going to dive into your music for the first time?
    First and foremost, I’m a lyric-focused songwriter. I’m trying to tell stories with my songs and to tackle the conflicts and questions that arise in my daily life. I get a lot of joy from experimenting with sounds in a studio setting. While there is a pretty clear, pop-minded approach to my writing, you’ll hopefully identify a diverse palate of sounds and arrangements throughout my recordings.

    You’ve been a part of so many projects over the course of your career (Something Corporate, Jack’s Mannequin, Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness). How has your creative process changed as you move between projects?
    I think my process has become a lot more collaborative. The more time you spend making things, the easier it is to articulate what you want and the more fun it is to translate everyone’s ideas into the work.  I’m far less obsessed with the outcome these days and so much more interested in digging deep with collaborators and going on an adventure in the studio and on the stage. 

    Something Corporate is officially back! What made you want to reach out to your old bandmates and get the ball rolling working together again?
    I had the band out for a surprise set during my birthday show a couple of years back, and the vibe was so good we decided to get back together properly for the When We Were Young fest. There was such a beautiful energy at those shows and, for the five of us, there was palpable joy being back in practice and hanging out in dressing rooms and laughing together. The shows were such a pure connection between us as band members and the audiences we were playing for that we decided to book more and keep the party rolling.

    Working with Something Corporate this time around comes about a bit differently, as you’re working as Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness. What has coming from the mindset of the art you’ve been making brought to working with the band again?
    Working with other projects has made me a better collaborator and it’s given me a real appreciation of the unique chemistry of Something Corporate. There is something magical about the bond we share, having grown up learning to play music together as kids. I am able to fully appreciate and celebrate the rarity of that connection now and it’s made this reunion a really peaceful and joyful moment in my life and I think the other guys’ as well.

    ‘Death Grip’ is the first single back! Were there other songs that were completed that you chose between to get to this track? What was it about this track that made you guys want it to be your comeback?
    ‘Death Grip‘ happened really organically. I wrote it in Nashville a month or two before we left for tour. I loved the song and wanted it out into the world. The decision wasn’t made through the lens of this is your comeback track. It was made out of love for the song and the band being excited to be back in the studio together. The song itself is about letting go, receiving life as it comes, and giving back what the universe gives to you. It gave us this song, and we gave it back. 

    Upon crafting ‘Death Grip’ could you automatically tell what you wanted the live performance of that song to look like?
    Not necessarily. I think the biggest shift for me post-Something Corporate has been letting the music evolve in the studio first and then crafting the show separately. ‘Death Grip‘ was very much created through that process. Hence, the Wilderness/SoCo Collab. The production of the next single that’s coming out was approached a little more like a traditional Something Corporate song, and on that one, we will flip the collaboration order to SoCo/Wilderness to reflect that. 

    You guys just kicked off the Out Of Office Tour. What can fans expect from these shows? Are we going to be getting unreleased music played?
    The show itself has a beautiful production incorporating video that weaves in moments from the early days and I think does a beautiful job of connecting fans to the band’s history while creating beautiful new memories to hang on to once you leave. The nearly two-hour set manages to cover the majority of our catalog with some deep cuts from night to night. We also have two new songs that will be out by the time we get to the second leg of the tour, and we will be throwing one of those in per night going forward. We’re really proud of both of them. 

    The Out Of Office Tour isn’t a typical tour since you’ve said that you’re all having to work around your current jobs. What’s been the hardest and most rewarding parts of touring now compared to back when you only had to focus on SoCo?
    Honestly, I’ve been hoping to reimagine the way I live, work, and tour for some time now. The way we structured these dates has afforded me and the band the opportunity to play for lots of fans and have incredible weekends together while still making it home to take care of our families and the careers we’ve built since moving on from Something Corporate in ‘05. The other guys would be able to speak more to the challenges, I’m sure, as some of them are definitely juggling work fields outside of music.

    Let’s talk about your partnership with Big Loud Rock! How did that come about? And how has that unfolded for you thus far?
    The truth is I’m pretty cagey when it comes to record deals these days. After Tilt came out, I was pretty hell-bent on stepping back from music for a bit and seeing where the wind blew. The day I wrote ‘Death Grip’ I was so excited by it. I started sending music around, and the Big Loud guys were so genuinely stoked about the song and the potential of releasing more that they made me a really fair deal based on mutual trust, and the rest is history. It’s early still but working with them has been a breath of fresh air. So many labels these days simply obsess over data and TikTok and make all their decisions based on fear. These guys love music and building artful campaigns around their releases. It has really been a joy to work with them.

    The Holiday From Real cruise kicks off this fall! Obviously, we and all the other fans are so excited. But what aspects are you most excited about?
    Playing shows with all of my favorite musicians and friends on a single weekend is going to be incredible. I know people look at these projects as separate entities, and, in many ways, they are, but for me, it’s my life and my music. Bringing that all together in one place, especially a vacation setting, just feels right to me. 

    Now that the single is out and the tour is underway, what does the rest of 2024 look like for you? What can fans expect?
    We’ll be dropping our next single, ‘Happy,’ on July 26, and I have high hopes for that song. It’s about to get busy with more regular shows and lots of travel, but I’m ready for it. We built this show to celebrate the magic that found me and my bandmates in my parent’s garage back in 1998 and the beautiful years of music that followed. I just want people to feel alive at these shows, to use this music as a time machine and make contact with the moments in their lives when this music was the soundtrack. Most importantly, I want fans to walk away with a new formative memory of all of us doing what we love most. Giving ourselves over completely to music for a couple of hours and singing these songs together. I want it to be visceral. 

    Check out more of our exclusive interview coverage here!

    We would love to hear from you! What do you think about this interview we got to do with Andrew McMahon? Let us know by commenting down below or by tweeting us @TheHoneyPOP! We are also on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ANDREW MCMAHON:
    INSTAGRAM | TWITTER

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SOMETHING CORPORATE:
    FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | WEBSITE

     

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    Hailey Hastings

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  • Exclusive Interview: Greyson Chance Talks All Things ‘Haymaker,’ and What’s Next!

    Exclusive Interview: Greyson Chance Talks All Things ‘Haymaker,’ and What’s Next!

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    It’s no secret at this point, we are huge Greysons Chance fans, and have been for years, so this is a pretty huge moment for us! We got to pick Greyson’s brain about his latest releases, and about what’s next, as well as about his relationship with his fans and about displaying vulnerability in his music. We are still processing getting to have this conversation! We hope you enjoy it as much as we do!

    Stream ‘Haymaker’ here!

    Hi Greyson! Thank so you much for taking the time to talk with us today! To start us off, how would you describe who you are as an artist to someone who is just tuning in for the first time? 

    Oh that’s rather hard isn’t it? Ever so often I have to tell my story in full, starting from the YouTube video to where I am now; and the whole thing really does read out like a movie. It’s a bizarre story. But if someone is truly tuning in for the first time, I would say my career started with me singing at the piano. And now 14-years-later, I’m still singing at the piano. 

    ‘Rearview Mirror’ marked the start of this next musical journey you’re on, what was it about ‘Rearview Mirror’ that made you want it to be the first introduction to this new era? 

    There was something very classic about ‘Rearview Mirror’ that made me want to make it the lead. I am always chasing that feeling of nostalgia everyday I go into the studio, to make things that feel bigger than me and to make things that will stand the test of time. From the jump, ‘Rearview Mirror’ felt that way, and I didn’t second-guess it. 

    ‘Haymaker’ is the track following ‘Rearview Mirror’ and you’ve said the track was born out of a place of conflict within your family, what was it like to be able to work that out through music? Was writing the healing process, or had that already come and writing was the result of the healing?

    I’ve gone through a lot in my life, but nothing quite stings like the emotions of family conflict, and for three years, I watched my family crumble before my own eyes. It was awful. Writing was certainly the healing process for me, and it’s been that way since I started writing songs. I told my cowriter Sam Harris the day we wrote ‘Haymaker’ that a thousand pounds were lifted off of my shoulders once those words hit the page. 

    You’ve always been very personal with your music, with your songs chaptering parts of your life. Can you pinpoint something that you were hesitant to put to music, but ended up in a song that you released and got to see it resonate with people?

    I was very hesitant to release ‘Haymaker,’ because it is my real life. I haven’t really spoken to my brother in a few years, so ‘Haymaker’ is this an encapsulation of everything I would say to him if I had the chance. So for these lyrics to be the first words he hears from me? Yeah, that shit’s raw, it’s ugly, it’s nuanced, but it’s necessary. Good art comes from vulnerability, I’ve always believed that. 

    Palladium was the last record, what is something that you learned during that album rollout/creative process that you’ve taken with you into creating the next project?

    I learned through Palladium that I am an album artist, and I always will be. I want to world build, I want my music and my visuals to paint a scene for the listener, to bring them to a place that feels disconnected from their own reality. And that doesn’t necessarily mean that the world needs to be complex, it just needs to be purposeful. 

    You’ve been in the industry for a long time, and because of that, you’ve had fans that have been around for a decade+ going to shows and supporting the music, what has having the support that’s allowed for breaks (like going to college and stepping away from music) while aways sticking around meant? 

    When I tell you I am the luckiest artist, you have no idea. My fans know my life, they know what I’ve been through, they know that I’ve suffered a lot, both mentally and physically since I was kid … they keep me upright. Think of someone you’ve known for 14-years of your life? That’s the type of relationship I have with my fans. I don’t feel a pressure to make music for them, if anything I feel a pressure to be healthy and happy for them, because I know that is what they want for me more than anything. My relationship with them is the coolest thing I get to experience in my life. 

    We know that crafting any form of art takes a village and it is often easier to thank the other people involved and harder to pat yourself on the back, but what is something you’ve been really proud of yourself for during the process of crafting ’Rearview Mirror’/’Haymaker?’ 

    I am proud of myself for pushing forward and continuing on no matter the adversity I’ve gone through. Music is a cutthroat industry, and it’s full of rejection. But the older I get, the more I realize the power in just surviving, waking up everyday and focusing in on the silver lining. I’ve been doing a lot of that lately, and that feels like a huge accomplishment. 

    When you look back at your discography is there a song for you that you have recently felt reconnected to? Maybe a track that you hadn’t revisited in a while and realized it still hits as hard as when you made it? 

    Boots, a song I released as a stand alone single around four years ago. “I’ve been western before all of these punks,” hits way hard in 2024. Don’t get me started on these fake cowboys out here right now. 

    Once again thank you so much for taking the time to chat with us! Before we let you go, what can fans expect as we finish out 2024? What’s on the horizon? 

    I’ve been working on this record for the past year and a half, and ‘Rearview Mirror’ and ‘Haymaker’ are just the first two songs; I’m ready to show everyone the full world. So I guess to answer your question … more music, and a lot of shows. That’s what is on my horizon. 

    Check out more of our exclusive interviews here!

    We would love to hear from you! What is your favorite track out of the two recent tracks Greyson Chance has released? Let us know by commenting down below or by tweeting us @TheHoneyPOP! We are also on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT GREYSON CHANCE:
    INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER

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    Hailey Hastings

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  • EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Lay Zhang On His Growth And How ‘Fresh’ Took Him By Surprise

    EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Lay Zhang On His Growth And How ‘Fresh’ Took Him By Surprise

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    Yep, you read that correctly. We got the opportunity to exclusively interview Lay Zhang, and we’re going to be pinching ourselves over this one for a while.

    Back in June, Lay Zhang released his latest album, STEP, which was his first entirely in English. You may have come to know Lay through this, or its singles ‘Run Back To You’ or ‘Psychic,’ or you might’ve known Lay for over a decade now as part of K-Pop juggernaut EXO. Regardless of when you got here, we can all agree that Lay is a force to be reckoned with. It was an honor to ask Lay Zhang about STEP, his growth since his rookie days, and how mentoring young artists inspires him, all in this exclusive interview!

    Lay Zhang x THP Exclusive Interview

    Lay On STEP

    Huge congratulations on the release of STEP! How does it feel to have the whole album out in the world?
    Thank you! It feels incredible to finally share this album with everyone. I’m excited for fans to hear it.

    What makes now the right time for you to release your debut all-English album?
    It felt like the perfect moment to connect with a broader audience and showcase my growth as an artist.

    You worked with some amazing artists and writers on the album. What do these collaborations mean to you? And how did they come about?
    These collaborations mean a lot to me. They came about through mutual respect and a shared vision for the music.

    Lay On ‘Fresh’

    Was there a song you were most nervous for fans to hear? Or one where the reaction has taken you by surprise?
    I was a bit nervous about ‘Fresh’ because it’s different from what I’ve done before, but the positive reaction has been amazing.

    We can’t stop listening to ‘Fresh!’ What are some things that make you feel “fresh and brand new?”
    Thank you! Traveling, trying new experiences, and connecting with fans always make me feel rejuvenated.

    The moment we heard the title track ‘STEP,’ we knew the performance would be amazing, and the official dance video proved us right! What can you tell us about the experience of recording this song?
    Recording ‘STEP’ was a dynamic and energetic experience. The dance video was a lot of fun to create, and I’m glad fans are enjoying it.

    Lay On Tour & TV

    Congratulations on the start of the Grandline 4 Tour, too! How does it feel to be back on the road and sharing the new album with fans in person?
    It’s thrilling to be back on tour and connect with fans face-to-face. Their energy makes every performance special.

    Show It All aired earlier this year. Of course, you were a mentor, but is there anything that you learned or took with you and brought to your own performances since the show?
    Mentoring taught me a lot about patience and perspective. I’ve definitely applied some of those lessons to my own performances.

    How did you find the experience of being a mentor, especially while you are still very active in the industry yourself?
    Being a mentor was rewarding. It was a balancing act, but it also gave me a new appreciation for the industry.

    Lay On His Career

    How do you think you’ve changed the most since your own rookie days? And what do you think your rookie self would think of the Lay Zhang of 2024?
    I’ve grown a lot in terms of confidence and skill. I think my rookie self would be proud and inspired by the journey.

    As a singer, dancer, rapper, actor, producer, and businessman, it feels like there’s no creative outlet you’re too afraid to try! Are there any other creative avenues you’d love to explore?
    I’m always open to new creative challenges. Exploring more in the realms of film and fashion interests me.

    What message would you like to give to new fans who discover the world of Lay Zhang through STEP?
    Welcome! I hope my music inspires and brings joy to you. Thank you for joining me on this journey.

    And what would you like fans who have followed you for over a decade now to take away from this release?
    Thank you for your unwavering support. This album is a testament to our journey together, and I hope it resonates deeply with you.

    Thank you again to Lay Zhang for chatting with us in this exclusive interview! Now, we gotta go show STEP even more love.

    What did you think of our chat with Lay? Are you as obsessed with STEP as we are? Are you, like us, among the fans showing ‘Fresh’ the love it deserves? Let us know over on Twitter @thehoneypop, and you can also talk to us over on Facebook and Instagram!

    Want more Lay Zhang in your life? We got you!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT LAY ZHANG:
    INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER | WEIBO | YOUTUBE

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    Anna Marie

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  • 9 Of Our Favorite Lyrics From Anna Thompson’s New Album, never let me fall in love again!

    9 Of Our Favorite Lyrics From Anna Thompson’s New Album, never let me fall in love again!

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    We’re gonna be real. Breakups are rough. But one thing that always helps is the perfect album that just gets it. If that’s what you’re looking for, then look no further than Anna Thompson’s new record! never let me fall in love again! is the ultimate post-breakup album consisting of fun, electro-pop beats, but filled with devastatingly relatable lyrics that can help you get over any relationship. Here are our 9 favorite lyrics that hit us hard.

    ‘wouldn’t that be bad?’

    “You have taken every bit of peace I had
    and baby if I’m being honest,
    I don’t think I want it back.”

    ‘we have nothing in common’

    “I illustrate you in my mind
    Perfect picture in a picture frame
    We have nothing in common
    But we’re kinda, sorta exactly the same, the same”

    ‘so what? whatever!’

    “You like that I won’t disappear just like that ringing in your ears
    Let it become with the beat and become the music to me    “

    ‘house’

    “We fallen in love or out?
    You got too close to me babe
    Memorized details of your face
    Wondering what are we now?”

    ‘the grey’

    “Blue is the color of your heart
    Got no idea who the f*ck you are
    Pink is the color of our hair
    And everything we decide to share    “

    ‘why’d you do that?’

    “The moon hangs over me on my drive home
    Just like the love you had
    The love I’ll never have
    You’re sinking your fangs into my bones
    And they’re about to crack”

    ‘papercuts’

    “What’s your weapon of choice, being to unavoid
    It’s the lack of the little things, got me annoyed
    Overwhelmed all at once bringing up all the past hurt”

    ‘party’

    “Looked hard but couldn’t find your interest
    Your guess is good as mine
    Got intimate with corners of my mind”

    ‘finale’

    “A part of me is dead
    ‘Cause I had my self esteem
    and then you ripped it all to shreds”

    So those are our favorite lyrics, what are yours? And what do you think of Anna Thompson’s new album, never let me fall in love again!? Let us know in the comments, on Facebook, Instagram, or by tweeting us @thehoneypop!

    Want more new music? We got you, honey!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ANNA THOMPSON:
    INSTAGRAM | SPOTIFY | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE

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    Aera Ahn

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  • TXT Celebrate Their Bond In ‘We’ll Never Change’ And CHIKAI

    TXT Celebrate Their Bond In ‘We’ll Never Change’ And CHIKAI

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    Another TOMORROW X TOGETHER comeback, another arrow straight to our hearts! Back with their fourth Japanese single, CHIKAI, TXT has continued the trajectory they began earlier this year with TOMORROW, by which we mean they’ve decided to hit us where it hurts.

    CHIKAI translates to ‘oath,’ and that’s exactly what this single album is. Across three tracks, the members restate their dedication to one another, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. TXT are always busy, but 2024 is proving to be one of the most intense yet. Following the back of TOMORROW‘s global success, TXT are in the middle of their third world tour, ACT: PROMISE. They’re also developing more and more notoriety in the fashion space and have attended Paris Fashion Week twice so far this year, and three of the five members have launched their own solo variety shows. See what we mean? You couldn’t dedicate yourself to all of that unless you really meant it.

    TXT continues to grow but don’t worry, they’ll never change…

    ‘We’ll Never Change’

    First of all, can we take a moment to appreciate how gorgeous that harp is? We absolutely love that TXT emphasizes it in the choreography, which is as ethereal and dainty as the song deserves.

    The layers in both the vocals and the track are stunning, we’re obsessed with the delicacy of the guitar, and overall the song is just so soothing. The tape sound effect in the production adds to the wistful sentimentality, and we couldn’t love it more if we tried. A reverent homage to friendship, ‘We’ll Never Change’ is the latest in a long list of nostalgic TXT songs.

    Even at a distance, even as we get older, one oath, we’re never, we’re never, we’re never changing.

    ‘We’ll Never Change’ lyrics

    Our tubatu sing of “Blending into each other, filling each other’s gaps,” as “love sparkles,” and we couldn’t agree with them more. As a group with distinct personalities, performance styles, and musical tastes, MOA has long known how well TXT balances each other out. After all, as they say, “Our ‘difference’ is not ‘wrong.’”

    ‘We’ll Never Change’ Music Video

    And as for the ‘We’ll Never Change’ music video? It’s delicious agony from start to finish. It opens with a flying light very similar to the fox from the ‘Deja Vu’ music video, and that’s not the end of the links. Just as ‘Deja Vu’ referenced so many of their Korean music videos, ‘We’ll Never Change’ does the same for TXT’s Japanese discography.

    TXT all play football together, just as they do in the ‘Run Away (Japanese Version)’ video, but this time Beomgyu is properly in the group now (and doesn’t fall off a bike in this entire MV, which feels like the biggest miracle of all). They all seem to have grown-up jobs now (boo), but what hasn’t changed is their love for their friendship. Yeonjun, who cleans a cinema, sheds tears as he watches their memories on the big screen. It adds to the lore theory that the members only exist inside his head, which makes us wanna bawl our eyes out, TBH.

    ‘Deja Vu (Japanese Version)’

    One thing you should know about ‘Deja Vu?’ It’s a triple threat. One of the best K-Pop songs of 2024 now has three versions! We’re so happy to add the Japanese version to our playlist rotation alongside the original and the ‘Anemoia Remix.’ Sandwiching it in between the other two tracks on CHIKAI really emphasizes its emotional intensity, whilst allowing the other songs to be more gentle, light-hearted moments.

    ‘Kitto Zutto (きっとずっと)’

    Is it really a TXT comeback if there isn’t a pop-punk-inspired b-side? We guess we’ll never know. ‘Kitto Zutto’ was produced by the one and only diamond maknae, Huening Kai! He adds this to his list of credits including the likes of ‘Dear Sputnik,’ and it’s so cool to see his identity as a producer becoming more and more distinct.

    Lyrically, TXT continues to twist the nostalgia-imbued knife. ‘Kitto Zutto’ or ‘きっとずっと’ approximately translates to ‘undoubtedly always.’ Is it just us, or did you immediately think of TOMORROW b-side ‘Miracle,’ too? TXT was singing about how the biggest miracle in their daily life is each other (‘Miracle’) and they promise their future is “you” (‘Deja Vu’), and now they’re doubling down on it with lyrics like this…

    I promise, no matter what, surely, always, I will be right beside you

    ‘Kitto Zutto’ Lyrics (translation credit)

    See? We weren’t exaggerating when we said that TXT is out to hit us in the feels with CHIKAI, and basically everything else they’ve done in 2024.

    So, what’s next for our tubatu? All five members (including Beomgyu, despite his injury!) are currently in Japan promoting ‘We’ll Never Change,’ and then TXT will embark on their first dome tour across Japan, starting in Tokyo on July 10th.

    What’s your favorite track from TXT’s CHIKAI? Are you drowning in nostalgia like we are? Let us know on Twitter @TheHoneyPOP! You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram!

    Want more TXT? Luckily for you, we’ve got that covered.

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT TXT:
    FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER | WEBSITE

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    Anna Marie

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  • During Tumblr’s Peak These Megan Thee Stallion MEGAN Lyric Posts Would’ve Found Their Way To Your Feed

    During Tumblr’s Peak These Megan Thee Stallion MEGAN Lyric Posts Would’ve Found Their Way To Your Feed

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    Everyone has been on our girl Megan Thee Stallion for every little thing, and with her newest self-titled album, MEGAN, she continues to shut all the haters down. With what she has gone through these past couple of years, we can’t help but always want to support our girl, and you know what? She makes it really, really easy to love her, especially with this newest album.

    So, we heard a couple of songs from MEGAN before its release, ‘BOA,’ ‘HISS,’ and ‘Cobra,’ which set up what was expected from the album, and we instantly knew we wouldn’t be disappointed. It doesn’t matter if you hit shuffle, click a random one, or start with the first one on the album; this album will be your fave release of the year. With this album, we have 15 brand-new tracks, and as we said, it was hit after hit after hit.

    We just had a lot of fun while listening to MEGAN; we went from dancing to crying to dancing again. Which made it harder when picking our faves, but honestly, we can’t stop listening to ‘BOA,’ ‘Where Them Girls At,’ ‘Moody Girl,’ ‘Mamushi (feat. Yuki Chiba),’ and ‘Otaku Hot Girl,’ but don’t tell the rest of the tracks. And though we weren’t surprised at the Anime references, we were still shocked at the beginning of ‘Otaku Hot Girl,’ if you haven’t listened to it and are a Jujutsu Kaisen fan, you’re gonna love it. We also really liked the diverse collabs she had on the album; we love hearing familiar voices, as well as falling in love with people we might not be familiar with.

    Now because we had so much fun with this album, we thought we might tell you some of our fave lyrics in a fun little way. So here are some MEGAN lyrics in the format of old Tumblr posts.

    ‘Moody Girl’

    Source: Canva, Edited by: Valerie Valdez

    “So many friends but I still feel lonely / How come none of y’all call to check on me?”

    ‘Find Out’

    Source: Canva, Edited: Valerie Valdez

    “Before I get played, I play with myself, cross me, I don’t care, I’m still blessed”

    ‘Cobra’

    Source: Canva, Edited By: Valerie Valdez

    “Breakin’ down and I had the whole world watchin’ / But the worst part is really who watched me”

    ‘Worthy’

    Source: Canva, Edited By: Valerie Valdez

    “I’m worthy, not worthless”

    ‘BOA’

    Source: Canva, Edited by: Valerie Valdez

    “All the sudden, they vegan, they don’t want beef”

    There’s really so many more we could’ve done, because Megan truly killed it with the bars on MEGAN. We can’t wait to see what else she has in store for us with this album. She has been teasing music videos, so keep your eyes peeled. And just because Pride month is ending doesn’t mean your support of everyone’s fave bi-icon, Megan Thee Stallion, has to stop now; make sure you stream her self-titled album here.

    What is your favorite track from the album? Which lyrics are your favorite? Let us know in the comments down below or over on Twitter @thehoneypop, and don’t forget to talk to us on Facebook and Instagram!

    For more music!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MEGAN THEE STALLION:
    FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | YOUTUBE

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    Valerie Valdez

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  • Feel The ‘Strawberry Rush’ With Chuu’s Second Mini-Album

    Feel The ‘Strawberry Rush’ With Chuu’s Second Mini-Album

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    Chuu’s first mini-album was a perfect release to introduce the world to who she really is as an artist. While we still haven’t gotten tired of those incredible songs, Chuu isn’t wasting any time, and she’s back with her first solo comeback, Strawberry Rush! And yes, it’s just as good as (if not better than) Howl…

    The Title Track

    After ‘Howl,’ Chuu taps into retro and city pop for her new title track, ‘Strawberry Rush.’ The song is energetic and fun but still has undertones full of hope and emotions. The surprising rap parts are a cute highlight of this song. ‘Strawberry Rush’ is all about support, love and reassurance. It embodies Chuu’s positive side perfectly – it’s sweet, full of flavor, and full of love. Overall, it’s such a fresh and addictive song, perfect for the summer.

    Right from her debut, Chuu created a visual world of her own with her music videos, and the music video for ‘Strawberry Rush’ continues in that world. In ‘Howl,’ Chuu comes out of the dark and embraces the idea that life comes with uncertainty but also beauty. With ‘Strawberry Rush,’ we’re thrown into a world full of color, fun animations, and creativity. If ‘Strawberry Rush’ didn’t give you the serotonin boost you needed by itself, its music video will do it.

    The B-sides

    Chuu stuck to the style and energy she had displayed on her first mini-album and we love that. But she still manages to give us fresh and unique songs in Strawberry Rush that expand her range. ‘Honeybee’ is a sweet, summery track clearly inspired by bossa nova. It showcases the softer, more lowkey side of her vocals, and the play on words all throughout the song makes it even better.

    Chuu has been known for always bringing happiness and spreading positivity. And that’s precisely what she does with her music, but even more so with ‘Daydreamer.’ In this b-side, Chuu sings about romanticizing everyday life, seeing the bright side of things, and daydreaming about a beautiful world. ‘Daydreamer’ captures the magic of creativity and finding beauty in everything, both in the lyrics and the instrumental.

    ‘Lucid Dream’ has to be one of the main highlights of Strawberry Rush. In this beautiful song, Chuu sings about embracing her dreams and believing in herself against all odds. ‘Lucid Dream’ has a certain vulnerability to it, both with its vocals and melodies, all while remaining optimistic. It’s a true celebration of Chuu’s path, dream, talent and art.

    Strawberry Rush closes with ‘Chocolate’ and its English version, a special single Chuu released for Valentine’s Day earlier this year. It’s a cute, addictiv,e and upbeat love song. Even months after its release, we’re still obsessed with this one. With the video game motifs, ‘Chocolate’ fits perfectly into Strawberry Rush, making it an even brighter release.

    Chuu continues to brighten our lives with her music and expands her world through her music, music videos, and artistic vision. Strawberry Rush is a perfect mini-album for the summertime and a killer first comeback. Chuu is a solo artist everyone should have in their playlist right now.

    Are you loving ‘Strawberry Rush’ as much as we are? What’s your favorite b-side on Chuu’s new mini-album? Be sure to let us know by tweeting us at @thehoneypop or visiting us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Need more K-Pop coverage? We got you!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT CHUU:
    FACEBOOK | OFFICIAL INSTAGRAM | PERSONAL INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER | WEBSITE | YOUTUBE

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    Juu

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  • Matching Red Velvet’s Cosmic Songs To Zodiac Constellations

    Matching Red Velvet’s Cosmic Songs To Zodiac Constellations

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    Our love for Red Velvet is nothing short of cosmic, and that’s especially true now that we’ve heard their latest EP, Cosmic. Ever since their debut in 2014, they’ve consistently delivered incredible songs, music videos, and more that have cemented their way into K-Pop history. Cosmic is a stunning culmination of a decade of hard work, success, and magic that’s guaranteed to win over any girl group fan! 

    The Cosmic mini-album celebrates the group’s 10th anniversary with a beautiful fusion of their Red and Velvet concepts, mixing their signature harmonies and R&B influences with bubbly energy and sparkling excitement. This duality also pops up in the era’s visuals – most of the concept photos were space-themed and ethereal, while the ‘Cosmic’ music video takes place in a meadow à la Midsommar. 

    With the cosmic theme in mind, venture “through the solar system” and into the cosmos with us as we assign each track on Cosmic to a different zodiac constellation! 

    ‘Cosmic’

    Our first peek into Red Velvet’s latest era came with the title track ‘Cosmic,’ which is a sparkly anthem for summer love! Throughout the song, Red Velvet likens their hearts to a star that “tells [them] she’s a bit lonely” as they start falling for someone. They’re ready to take on the world with this new lover by their side! And the chorus’ “riding your rhythm through the solar system” lyric is a fun nod to their 2022 song ‘Feel My Rhythm.’ 

    The Gemini constellation would be a great match for this song since it’s about connection and unity! That symbolism comes from the Greek myth of Castor and Pollux, who were twin brothers despite having different dads. It reminds us of how the members of Red Velvet are like sisters now, even if they aren’t related!

    “‘Come with me,’ you say
    ‘Discover things no human eyes have seen,’ you say
    I just can’t say goodnight…” 

    ‘Sunflower’

    ‘Sunflower’ is an energetic, adorable song about the thrilling rush of love. It’s as bright as a ‘Sunflower!’ If someone wrote something this sweet about us, we think we’d collapse on the spot. The “I’ll find you in my dreams, driving forward” lyric might be a callback to ‘In My Dreams,’ one of our all-time fave Red Velvet songs, which makes us love this track even more. Our constellation pick for this one is Aries, since it often symbolizes new beginnings and adventure. What an exciting way to describe a new relationship! 

    “I might melt away in your universe
    You got me hypnotized…”

    ‘Last Drop’

    Is it really a Red Velvet EP if we don’t shed a few tears? We think not, and ‘Last Drop’ was the song that brought on the waterworks! Full of pretty synths and guitar strums, it’s all about Red Velvet’s love and appreciation for Reveluvs who have supported them over the years. Even with how difficult it can be in the music industry, they promise to keep delivering amazing music for us and giving us every last drop of effort. We also love how the “dazzling night festival” lyric references their iconic The ReVe Festival albums.

    Our official constellation choice for ‘Last Drop’ is Cancer, which symbolizes loyalty. We’ll always be loyal supporters of Red Velvet!

    “I’ll fly lightyears to find you
    To you, who made me shine bright in the boundless night
    To you, my universe and the only reason I exist…”

    ‘Love Arcade’

    ‘Love Arcade’ has already become one of our favorite Red Velvet b-sides thanks to its creative theme and production! The song compares love to a game that the girls are ready to take on, and its retro pop sounds that sound like a classic video game soundtrack will make you feel like you’re really in a fun arcade. We think the Scorpio constellation would be the best match – it symbolizes passion, strategy, and power, which are three important things when you’re playing a game. 

    “Everything is ready, there are no rules (Make a new stage)
    Should we end this boring quest?
    Let’s go to the top…” 

    ‘Bubble’

    ‘Bubble’ is an energizing, synth-infused track about exploring the world and embracing all its possibilities with the right person by your side. And since this is RV’s anniversary comeback, we think it’s about the group themselves! They’ve made the global music scene their “shiny” stage together and it’s been so fun to watch over the years, especially with how many different sounds and concepts they’ve explored. We’d match up ‘Bubble’ with the Sagittarius constellation, which represents exploration! 

    “I want to be with you wherever you go
    Following your light because all dreams become clearer…” 

    ‘Night Drive’

    The Cosmic mini-album ends with ‘Night Drive,’ a midtempo synthpop song with a relaxing edge, which would make the perfect soundtrack for an actual ‘Night Drive’ down a city street. It tells a story about enjoying a night drive with someone you care about, possibly as a celebration of Red Velvet’s members or Reveluvs. We think ‘Night Drive’ would totally pair well with the Pisces constellation, which is associated with love and escapism! The symbolism comes from a Greek myth in which Aphrodite and her son, Eros, escape a monster by turning into fish. 

    “You tell me, ‘I’ll always be by your side, I promise…’” 

    Which track on Cosmic do you get the most starry-eyed for? Did we match up your fave with the constellation for your zodiac sign? Let us know in the comments below or hit us up on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! 

    Check out more sweet K-Pop content! 

     TO LEARN MORE ABOUT RED VELVET:
    FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER | YOUTUBE

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    Madison Murray

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  • Two New Smashing Singles by Marlon Hoffman, Written by Davey Johnstone & Rick Otto, Soon to Be Released

    Two New Smashing Singles by Marlon Hoffman, Written by Davey Johnstone & Rick Otto, Soon to Be Released

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    The Songs are Included on Hoffman’s Upcoming Record HOLY MATTERS, Co-Produced With Johnstone


    LOS ANGELES, June 21, 2024 (Newswire.com)
    –
    “SUICIDE RIDE” and “RUNNIN OUTTA ROAD” are the first two singles to be released from the new album HOLY MATTERS by Marlon Hoffman. Both songs were written by Davey Johnstone (Elton John Band) and Rick Otto and are performed by Hoffman. The new songs dropping this summer are “SUICIDE RIDE” and “RUNNIN’ OUTTA ROAD.” Denny Seiwell, original member of WINGS, said, “‘SUICIDE RIDE’: No negotiation. This is bada** rock ‘n’ roll at its best — give me more, give me more, give me more!”

    The new album HOLY MATTERS is to be released in September 2024 everywhere. 

    Pre-Release Links:

    Suicide Ride:  https://youtu.be/XFgXLKGVxbY  

    Runnin’ Outta Road: https://youtu.be/qS3A0wSgGkU 

    When Johnstone heard his friend Marlon’s work with Marlon Hoffman Band (Le Happy & La Paix), he recognized that Hoffman’s “Outlaw” voice and performance style was perfect for these songs. They recorded at Hoffman’s Kenrose Studio where Johnstone recorded his album DEEPER THAN MY ROOTS in 2022. HOLY MATTERS is co-produced by Marlon Hoffman (Marlon Hoffman Band, The Clones STL, St. Louis Mopes) with Davey Johnstone (Elton John Band, Magna Carta, Alice Cooper, Stevie Nicks) and Bernard Fowler (Rolling Stones, The Charlie Watts Quintet, Tackhead). Musicians on the song “Suicide Ride” include: Davey Johnstone on Electric, Acoustic, Bass and Slide Guitars; Jesse Johnstone on Drums; Adam Chester on Piano; Charlie Johnstone, Mixing.

    “I’m running to the nearest record store to get this one. Marlon’s vocals are so honest and this bit of Americana rock ‘n’ roll southern style is really pulled across the finish line with Davey Johnstone’s production and mandolin as well as the single-note guitar lines that hearken back to the days of great music gone by.” — Denny Seiwell  (Original member of Wings)

    Musicians on the album include Marlon Hoffman, Davey Johnstone, Bernard Fowler (Rolling Stones), Phil Parlapiano (John Prine, Bonnie Raitt, Rod Stewart, Tracy Chapman), Stephen Ferrone (Average White Band, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers), John O’Kennedy, Major Wynn, Jon Poli (Naked Eyes) and Jody Daley-Lovett.

    For more information about the release of Holy Matters, visit https://marlonhoffman.com or contact Anita Lee Publicity at a.lee@anitaleepublicity.com.

    Source: Marlon Hoffman Music

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  • MOON MUSiC? We Eclipse You By Assigning Coldplay Songs To The Moon Cycle 

    MOON MUSiC? We Eclipse You By Assigning Coldplay Songs To The Moon Cycle 

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    A cheesy pun is incoming in 2… 1… 0 (and no, we’re not just replaying grainy footage of the first moon landing, which will make sense in a lunar second), but every time we hear a new Coldplay-coined guitar riff, it genuinely ‘feelslikeimfallinginlove.’ At least, that’s the sensation we’re thinking washed over Budapest’s Puskás Aréna when the soul-hypnotizing British rock band crooned those adoring lyrics for a sold-out crowd. While the picturesque view of purple and blue planets surrounded the vicinity, the starry night sky held their backup singer. And yes, now we’re full-mooning it back to the celestial satellite. The single is off their upcoming album, MOON MUSiC, which comes out four months from now on October 4. 

    We’re already collecting moon photos in every shade of the rainbow captured on the screen behind the boys because we’re over the moon for this announcement! But we’re not done with the moon puns yet. No, there’s so much to explore, especially the cycle itself. Do you know there are eight stages? Of course you did. You’re already nodding your heads, annotating notes to that library of photos, waiting to see which song off the new album correlates to your moon magic and harnessing its powers to cast some manifestation! But for now, we’re following the theme by matching songs from their discography with each phase. 

    New Moon

    With its sparkling melody as soothing as the tumbling of waves seen in its lyric visualizer, ‘Hypnotised’ perfectly sums up the new beginnings that the New Moon serves us! How can it not be with lines like “Need a brand new coat of paint?” Circling us back to our ever-growing gallery of kaleidoscopic moon photos. There’s also a poetic touch in the closing couplet: “It was dark / Now it’s sunrise.” Don’t stray from us; MOON MUSiC matches our night owl energy. But its imagery supports the yin-yang, the unfolding of one contrast to the other. So, in this context, it’s the start of a new cycle.

    Waxing Crescent

    Oceanic blue turtles spin mid-air to tumble into the subway, and 50s glamour girls with leis decorating their necks as they stand on a coastal galaxy are all things that occur when we’re on the ‘Up&Up.’ At least by Coldplay standards. Who wouldn’t want that? We’re there the minute a volcano doesn’t spew out steaming lava but heats some corn seeds to stream out a delicious snack: popcorn. Waxing Crescent is about rebuilding oneself. With as much spontaneity as this music video has, even if everything else appears dark, we know a splinter of uniqueness shines through. 

    First Quarter

    Who said Coldplay’s illustrious ‘Clocks’ went for around five minutes? Nah, they’re surely lying to us. Instead, it’s equivalent to the time we’re going through an upheaval, acting as our sound therapy until we stop hearing the ticking hands of time prolonging. Can we tell we’re not one for patience? The First Quarter Moon is usually when we swap out a “Not happy, Jan” for a lip-synced “Tides that I tried to swim against.” Do you think we’re going to compare our vocals to Chris’s? That’s just not another problem we need as the obstacles keep rising. 

    Waxing Gibbous

    We know. The exclamation point for Coldplay’s ‘Lost!’ aligns us with the fact that they are lost, mentally, at least, following a dumpster fire-licked to happier times. But then Chris follows it up with a “Doesn’t mean,” and we’ve got a whole juxtaposition on our hands here. It’s probably the type of reflection we’re doing during the Waxing Gibbous Moon. We’re a little unsure at the moment, which is okay. Because we know there’s soon going to be light. 

    Full Moon

    Speaking of moon manifestation, was your intention to spot Beyonce? If so, you’re so harvesting it this Full Moon. She shows up around the minute and a half mark, wearing gold. That’s the antennae-crested Queen Bee of our hive (not just The Honey POP hive, but generally!). ‘Hymn For The Weekend’ is the ultimate shot of happiness, checking off everything one needs from a good tune. 

    Waning Gibbous

    We swear we didn’t plan this (and okay, maybe that’s a slight lie.) Cast aside the fact that ‘Don’t Panic’ is so built into Coldplay’s discography that even the locals will give adoring nods of recognition upon hearing its gentle strum. It’s also the opener of Coldplay’s Parachutes, their first studio album, which has a yellow moon depicted on its album cover. That is the definition of synchronicity! However, one of this particular moon’s spiritual meanings is gratitude. And you know what also means that? Yup! It’s the Waning Gibbous Moon, acting as a time to appreciate what you have and to re-evaluate your goals.

    Last Quarter

    We wouldn’t be rattling off Coldplay songs that help us through the tides of the moon if ‘Fix You’ wasn’t on it. That’s just blasphemous! From its iconic guitar rift, which has a feeling like we’re floating to another universe with the help of an alien’s ethereal vehicle, to the everlasting hope the lyrics give us when the only flickers of light we see are speckled stars, it’s just that tune. We don’t need any other cleansing modality during The Last Quarter Moon. Only this is injected into our veins. 

    Waning Crescent

    Let us regurgitate a fact if you have yet to click below! Coldplay’s ‘The Scientist’ follows Nathaniel Hawthorne’s short story The Birthmark. It portrays perfectionism through a scientist named Aylmer and his wife, Georgiana. Over time, their relationship decays, and the former becomes obsessed with his hatred for a birthmark on his wife’s cheek, wanting to remove it surgically. When he does, though, the wife dies at the birthmark, which was her life’s link.

    There’s a beautiful line: “The birthmark would come and go with the emotions in her heart..” It runs congruent with ‘The Scientist’ in that the mark became more visible when love was forsaken. Written from the scientist’s perspective, hence the name, it’s his sorrows and regret of falling out of unconditional love. During the Waning Crescent, we could use this teaching for ourselves, treating us with so much self-care that we accept even our flaws. 

    Astrology whizzes hybridizing as Coldplay fans. Now is your time! What is your musical match-up to the correlating moon cycle phases? All of ours will appear different based on our personalities, most likely shaped by our birth charts and our music tastes. Tweet us @thehoneypop with your answers! 

    Sustainability’s Out Of This Galaxy!

    Then follow along on our Instagram and Facebook accounts! It may not be exactly Neil Armstrong’s level on a scale of five moons, but the band is setting their records, and you know we will keep covering it! MOON MUSiC will be the first ever 140g EcoRecord LP. Don’t have the 4-1-1 on sustainability? Collect your plastic bottles into a side bin and listen up—folks that have already done so might have just helped out in the making process of the album as the LP will be made from 100% recycled bottles.

    The Ocean Cleanup also designed a Notebook Edition EcoRecord LP. Picture Chris Martin’s inspo mood board for this album, and that’s precisely what you’ll get with 28 pages of unseen goodies, voice notes, and demos because we’re genuinely getting spoiled here! And an EcoCD. However, all of these planet-saving perks, such as the sun turning into this emoji (🌞) with its glowing grin, also mean it’s limited! So, you know the drill. Dust off the space suit hanging up in your wardrobe, as that, along with a whole pile of other merch to celebrate this era, is over on their website. 

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT COLDPLAY:
    FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER | WEBSITE

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    Rachel Finucane

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  • Exclusive Interview: Speelburg On Silver Medal Slump And Filmmaking

    Exclusive Interview: Speelburg On Silver Medal Slump And Filmmaking

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    It’s time for you to get to know Speelburg! In the latest of THP’s exclusive interviews, we chat with Speelburg, fresh off the release of his sophomore album, Silver Medal Slump. Speelburg is a multi-disciplinary artist who can do it all – make witty “weird pop,” direct music videos for your faves, and give you great movie recommendations. We simply have to stan!

    His latest project, Silver Medal Slump, is the second album under the name Speelburg. Each song was slowly-but-surely released over the course of a year, and the album’s arc unpacks the nature of second place. Centering your ‘dreaded second album’ around the idea of second place is so witty, and that’s just Speelburg all over, TBH.

    We were so excited to talk with Speelburg about Silver Medal Slump, his namesake, and so much more, in this exclusive interview. So we won’t keep you waiting any longer!

    Image Source: Alex Boundy, via Sideways Media

    Speelburg x THP Exclusive Interview

    Congratulations on Silver Medal Slump! You released the songs over a long period of time, but how does it feel to have the whole body of work out there in the world now? What’s the response been like?
    Thanks! Yeah, the response has been great! It’s so nice to have the whole thing out there living in the world as a 10 song, 32 min unit. People have been super nice about it — I guess it would be pretty weird if they went out of their way to DM me and dunk on it, but luckily that hasn’t happened yet. Like, yeah, the whole thing came out over the course of a year, because honestly, that felt like the best way to do it for this record. The first one took a lot longer to complete and get out there so I really wanted to try the complete opposite of that. Take 10 songs, and as each one is finished, try and get it out there as quick as possible. You still have an eye on the eventual goal of the album as a whole, but it makes you write and commit a lot quicker.

    You released music videos for so many of the tracks, and we love how they represent different facets
    of both the album and of you. What made you decide to go with this Silver Medal theme?
    Well, I like having an overall theme and aesthetic for the an album, even if it only ever makes sense to me. At some point while I was writing this album I started really getting into the idea of runners up, second place winners, sequels etc… and like, looking at a lot of sophomoric efforts and what it meant to put out a second album. In a lot of ways it’s a second album about making a second album, not necessarily in some huge Charlie Kauffman way. But not not either.

    And how did you decide the order that you released the tracks? Was it as-and-when each song was
    ready to be heard?
    Yes and no. At first, I had a few finished songs and was like, “Well, if I start releasing the first single now, I’ll have to commit to releasing the whole album by this date.” So you look at the few finished songs and choose the first single, then you release the next one and you’re kind of doing it in a way that makes sense to you, and then you look at the list of 7 or 8 nearly finished songs and go “alright now I got a good view of what I need to get done.” As stressful as it was in the end, the process was a whole lot funner than sitting on a finished record for a year or more.

    Your debut album, Porsche, came out in 2020. Did you feel any pressure to live up to the
    expectations that were set following the success of it? Though we’ll admit there’s a certain irony to
    this question given the concept of Silver Medal Slump!
    Well sure. Yeah, like you point out, there’s definitely some pressure but to be honest, there was a lot less on this one, mainly because I kept telling myself the debut needs to be out by this time, under these perfect conditions, and it needs to say this about me and blah blah blah. This is not to say this one has no intention, it totally knows what it’s trying to say. it’s just, it felt like when I finally had the first one out, I had suddenly paved an endless runway for myself. “I’ve done the first album, now I can just keep making more and none of them ever have to be the debut Speelburg album.” Does that make sense?

    Totally! You freed yourself by getting that first one out.
    Exactly! It was probably mostly self-imposed pressure, and this is not to say each new album isn’t going to come with it’s own set of rules and anxieties, but it feels like having your first one out, people can really join along the way as you evolve and grow as a writer and producer.

    You’ve referred to your work as “weird pop” before. How would you define that?
    I think it’s just a way to tell people I make pop that isn’t the first thing they think of when someone says pop. I think they think of something like Dua Lipa. But like, I’m going to the same well as them so there’s not that much distinction. Everyone’s doing everything these days and releasing it all as singles. Making singles is fun. You really get to experiment with all kinds of genres. At the end of the day, if it has your voice, or even just your name, people are down to listen.

    It’s been said that you have a Wes Anderson-esque sense of humor in your music, which we totally
    agree with. So we have to ask: what’s your favorite Wes Anderson film?
    Oh that’s nice! Thanks. He’s rad. The thing I really like about directing that’s similar to music is that you’re constantly learning new things. You start a thing and then slowly it becomes another career and along the way you try and copy some shots, you try and come up with your own. Same with music genres. You hear a thing you love and you want to figure out how it’s made and how to make your own version of it. It’s really hard to pick a favorite, but I will say the one I really love that doesn’t seem to get as much love is The Darjeeling Limited. I’ve seen it dozens of times, and it’s just one of those movies that came along at a perfect time. Something about brothers fighting and talking over each other, the amazing Indian setting and a killer soundtrack. I just love it so much.

    And dare we ask what your favorite Spielberg film is?!
    Catch Me If You Can. No, wait. Hook. I’m gonna say Hook. Just because, if you watch the featurette behind the scenes video, it really shows you everything that went into making the world seem so real. Hook rules.

    You clearly have so much passion and talent in film-making, with your work for The National amongst others. How does your work in this space impact your music and vice versa?
    At this point I’d say they’re pretty knotted together. For my own personal work anyway, you can’t really have
    one without the other. I think about a lot of these songs visually, so video and music pretty much go hand in hand. But I really dig the commercial work. Anytime you get stuck on a song, you just say yes to a directing job and it just puts that track on ice for a couple weeks. You come back to music in such an excited way, and can figure out pretty quickly how to fix it. And people like The National and John Legend and their teams have been such great collaborators. You get a surprising amount of creative freedom which means you can experiment on such a larger scale. And again, you take a lot of those lessons in collaboration, speed and execution back to the music side. Like, I got to work on this video for the National that mixed video and animation and the turnaround was pretty quick, but the whole thing was so fun and I’ve ended up using a few of those tricks on other visual stuff for Speelburg, so it all kind of feeds into each other.

    Are there any particular music artists out there that you’d love to direct in the future?
    Oh man, so so many. I’d really love to do some videos for Girl Ultra. She’s so so cool. I think I could do some pretty great stuff for Remi Wolf and Beck too…You know I’d really like to try to do more with choreography too. I directed this small video and ended up just shouting out dance moves behind the camera to these twoactors, and they were great, and the whole thing just came together, but I’m by no means a choreographer. I would just love to work with someone great who knows what they’re doing and take care of the rest. Then beyond that anyone from like Toro Y Moi, LCD, Phoenix, Tame Impala to like, The Weeknd and Ariana Grande would be such a dream. Really want to do as much of that stuff as I can over the next year while I finish up the next record so who knows!

    We love that you split your time between LA and London (two of our fave cities), too! How do each of
    these places inspire you? Does the energy they have impact you in different ways?
    Oh totally! There’s some cool stuff coming out of the UK, and honestly feels completely different from what comes out of LA, and bringing weirder, more interesting references to your writing, especially in collaborations, is always better. The UK is always thriving when it comes to electronic music, and it’s developed a really great art rock scene in recent years with labels like Speedy Wunderground being a great way in for new acts. LA’s got the sun and it’s got the money and the studios but it’s also got some great gnarliness to it and that divide makes for great and interesting art. There’s also a really great community there, other transplants, like-minded musicians, a whole great scene that’s constantly evolving. I love them both. I’m happy in whatever place keeps me hearing new and interesting music and meeting new and interesting people.

    We’re still basking in Silver Medal Slump, but we have to ask: What’s up next for you?
    Well, we’ll see if it can be done, but right now I’m starting to see the next record start coming to life. It might not have all the squishy organs yet, but the shell is forming. As for the commercial work, that’s a little harder to talk about before it’s all signed off, but I really feel like I’m only getting better with each project, and pretty stoked to share all of it. And beyond that, I’m super excited to get back on the road and tour the album. We’ll be doing some dates at the end of the summer and into the fall and I can’t wait to see what works! Records and commercial work aside, playing live is my favorite thing. I feel like I spoke a lot in this interview. Hopefully, it’s not too boring. I tried really hard to get really good at making this album as concise as it could. I’m not sure I can say the same about this interview.

    Definitely not too much! Thanks so much to Speelburg for chatting with us for this interview!

    Let us know your thoughts in the comments below, or tell us over on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

    Head this way for more exclusive interviews!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SPEELBURG:
    FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | WEBSITE | YOUTUBE

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    Anna Marie

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  • Our Favorite Lyrics From Capstan’s New Album, The Mosaic

    Our Favorite Lyrics From Capstan’s New Album, The Mosaic

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    If there’s one thing about us at The Honey POP, it’s that we stan Capstan. They dropped the first single, ‘Bête Noire,’ in October of last year. Since then, they’ve followed with six more bangers, the most recent being ‘What You Want’ featuring Oliver Baxxter of Broadside. If you didn’t know, the band also self-produced, engineered, and recorded their new album, which makes it even more impressive. The Mosaic‘s 18 tracks truly showcase Capstan’s talent and versatility while remaining cohesive and staying true to the album’s theme of the complexities of life — making it a strong contender for AOTY. With that being said, here are our favorite lyrics from The Mosaic.

    ‘I. Revolve’

    “Collecting dust inside an old empty shell
    Will better days still know me? Absent of the hurting
    Cast my gaze inside me”

    ‘Final Words’

    “Every night reciting these words of grief
    Though time has altered their meaning
    Let it resonate with anyone who feels the same I can’t revel on,
    I have to turn the page”

    ‘Undertow’

    “Focused on my failures (hidden deep)
    Hammering the nails (wanna break free)
    Craft my own casket with miseries past
    When can I break free? Be who you see in me“

    ‘An Open Letter’

    “I was a storm when I was younger and if I lost you in the flood,
    I hope this apology serves as enough”

    ‘Hailey’

    “I was wrong to embrace the idea that I can’t ever change
    As we grow, everyday
    You’re the true north, still guiding my way“

    ‘II. Revise’

    “So I’ll love on, cherish this glow
    Find a place to grow, start to let it go
    Restitch my tapestry, erase the misery scene“

    ‘Dwell’

    “I hear the memories echoing
    If they could hear me I’d be whispering
    Stay present in every second, each moment
    Soon you’d give it all to do it all over“

    ‘Moloch’

    “See yourself as a hero? Ignoring all the failures
    of your ideology to protect the ones who’re most desperate”

    ‘What Can I Say?’

    “You broke the cage, the one that held me for so long
    And kept me writing heartbreak songs
    You brought my heart a joy I can’t convey“

    ‘III. The Mosaic’

    “…hate only stems from the loss of the only thing we ever really need at all,
    our glimpse of each other so very small,
    a monocolored fragment of an endless vibrant sprawl.”

    Capstan told us in our exclusive interview with them that it’s their favorite lyric from the album, and we absolutely have to agree. Yes, it’s 10 minutes and 3 seconds. But this song has so much beauty, and it’s the best way to end an album. You have to listen to the entire song.

    So, what do you think of Capstan’s new album, The Mosaic? And what are your favorite lyrics? Let us know in the comments, on Facebook, Instagram, or by tweeting us @thehoneypop!

    Want more new music content? We got you!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT CAPSTAN:
    FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER | YOUTUBE | WEBSITE

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    Aera Ahn

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  • Room(s) Under The Stairs Inspired By ZAYN Songs

    Room(s) Under The Stairs Inspired By ZAYN Songs

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    If each descending step down a spiral staircase were equal to the years since Zayn Malik released solo music, we would have taken three steps. It’s uncannily similar to the three-step silhouetted logo on Room Under The Stairs, perched right next to his artist name. Note that he continues dropping the Malik and putting his first in raging caps! When his fans aren’t belting out Zayn’s name, do they really understand the depth of his artistry? We think not! So, we’ll shout it out as he perceives it: ZAYN!

    Image Source: Mercury Records

    It’s not the only staircase on the album cover work, either. And we’re genuinely throwing the word around so much that we’re even digging into foreign-sounding synonyms. In which case, the French say “escaliers” for stairs! Those are resting in a washed-out blue projection of ZAYN’s face. Since we’re window peepers, one might detect various guitars and sound speakers designed by São Paulo, Brazil art director and illustrator Pedro inside (ZAYN posted the full sketch on Instagram weeks ago!) Trees and pathways brush out into the feathered touches of his eyelashes and beard. Even more striking is timber latched onto the room, supporting its thick white lines, suggesting it’s a work in progress. We mean, clearly, when there’s no roof!

    That word, “stairs,” therefore represents where ZAYN recorded this album: in his own house in Pennsylvania, alongside producer Dave Cobb. There’s also the slang word itself coining our brains—the one thing clogging along upstairs. Throwing that into the picture makes all the more sense that the cover artwork depicts the contents of his mind, precisely the melodic whispers we hear throughout every track hybridizing folk and R&B. 

    Sketching Out The Floorplan 

    Room Under The Stairs centers around 15 tracks strung together over six years (he was so busy during these years that he even released four more songs in the form of Z SIDES, but we digress). One of ZAYN’s muses, his daughter Khai’s tiny footsteps pattering outside the studio, makes it even more authentic. We wanted to zone in on the personal touches of this album. He quite literally lets us into his house and throw our feet up on one of the couches while we brisk through every perfectly flawed note of his diary. We’ll do so by sketching up three rooms inspired by tracks off the album, diving into their creative themes and metaphors.

    ‘Stardust’

    King of CapCut transitions, ‘Stardust’ is the latest track that got the music video treatment from ZAYN, as it came out at the same time as Room Under The Stairs. This is an interesting point, as the message appears differently in both forms.

    In the music video, it’s a statement on fame. The first time he emerges into the water, a shadowed father and child watch the shooting star display. Stars have always been associated with glitzy Hollywood! Then there’s another version of him, solely in a plaid shirt, presumably what he’s wearing when roaming around his Pennsylvania farm, stuck behind a doorframe with maroon galaxies mystified behind him. As we flick back and forth between him being exposed out in the lake and collecting these fragments of ‘Stardust’ soaking into his skin, he’s creating a juxtaposition of what the industry curated him to be and who he actually is! Therefore, the lyric, “Funny how it found us,” a repeated mantra that appears as the throughline of the chorus, eerily ties into this!

    Then, of course, when just taking the song as it is, it’s this serenely romantic ballad tucked into an otherwise emotional record. “I found perfume in a magazine” not only acts as the flowery language to depict his senses enveloped in his muse, but it could also be about his model ex-girlfriend, Gigi Hadid! 

    Theater Room

    We’re using the theater room, otherwise commonly known as the living room, for a ‘Stardust’ makeover. Think of a staircase littered with stars to lead us to the room. Then, electrified clouds swirl on the roof that dance with different lights like dark blues and pinks to make out the shape, taking us to another time continuum. For the most part, it could look like a space station with futuristic chairs, rugs with a moon-sized chunk taken out of them, and a hidden nook along the planet-strung wallpaper that rests a Rocket Raccoon doll. There has to be a place for the little ones to watch Space Nova, so perhaps a rocket ship-themed tent can go into one of the corners? Between constellation lamps and “love you to the moon and back” wall art, there’s so much to do with this theme!

    ‘The Time’

    If Zayn’s not pulling us towards a Room Under The Stairs on this record, he’s definitely taking us to church through his memorizing vocals, and ‘The Time’ is no exception! When becoming famous, it’s almost as if you’re being pulled from all different angles, making your schedule chaotic. Yet, as he points out, there’s only one person he wants to spend time with: his daughter, Khai! During an interview with Zach Sang, ZAYN points out that the lyrics during verse two of this song—“Feedin’ families, forget the fame / I’m doing it now for a second name”—are all about her. Although ZAYN never became a musician solely to be famous, being a parent has wholly diverted his thinking, particularly about time and how precious it truly is! 

    Dining Room

    When we think about rooms in terms of how long we spend in each one, perhaps the dining room is the shortest! We can stay in bed even after the snooze alarm sounds and have the sounds of a binge-watch be background noise as we doze off, but once there’s no food left on our plates, we simply move on to something else. Therefore, inspiring this room, ‘The Time,’ seems fitting!

    Our gateway to this room is through a numbered staircase. So when ascending, it goes up, but when going down the stairs, you’re counting backward! Then, the wallpaper is littered with spades and diamond hearts, a tie-in to playing cards. The dining table has spiraled metal dice, one on top of the other until there are three acting as its legs. The plates will always be decorated as clocks, centering food amidst the hands of time. There can even be an hourglass on the table!

    ‘Something in The Water’

    We’re right along with you in not expecting the grimacing red ogre emoji (this guy 👹) to be wrapped around the word “water” in ZAYN’s ‘Something In The Water.’ And although it’s slightly terrifying upon our first listen, we’re totally obsessed with it now and count it as a cute quirk for the track.

    It closes out the romantic trifecta on the record, with the other two being the above! Just with the added touches or waves, it’s a little friskier if we’re matching the ocean water theme. ZAYN switches things up through the line, “Caught a glimpse of your gaze, I was frozen.” When concerning matters of the heart, we could talk about having one that’s cold. It’s possible that water is denoting the free-falling energy of tangling with someone sexually, and then that skittish fright comes in when he realizes they have his heart, too. He’s not just attracted. He’s in love, which can complicate things, but he will allow it to! 

    Bedroom

    Considering this track is sensual, it makes sense that ‘Something In The Water’ would be up the alley of our bedroom! But we’re latching ourselves onto the water theme and having fun with it. For example, who needs an ordinary staircase to get us to this room? Not us! We’re relying on a slippery slide that awaits the floor, which is more like a crystal-blue pool, with pebbles littering the bottom that you can easily see through the water. If that’s not your thing, you can still play into this theme by simply having the sort of slide that you would find in a playground!

    The ceiling can be decorated with ocean critters, with a bed resembling a giant mermaid-loving clam! Or maybe it looks like a turtle is carrying the bed with the mattress where the shell should be. Perhaps a scuba diver table lamp? Or even an aquarium at the top of the bed in a double-decker style? Not to mention a jellyfish chandelier with its tentacles springing out! We plan to hold our breath for as long as necessary, so we never have to leave the bedroom.

    Tossing Over The Room Keys

    Which Room Under The Stairs are you dragging your ZAYN cardboard cutout to, so you can perch headphones over his ears and let him listen to his sonic masterpiece? We all know how shy ZAYN is, but even he must boast about how gloriously special this entire piece is! So, we’ll just keep playing it until our fingertips subconsciously trace back to the loop button. Let us know which one you’re claiming over at our X/Twitter @thehoneypop!

    Then head over to our Instagram and Facebook accounts, following along for more updates from our tattoo-baring Bradfordian (he’s in the mood to drop surprises lately, it seems!) Only recently did he do his first live show in eight years, and now his first TV performance in the same amount of years on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, which is as impressive as those acknowledgments sound. So we can’t wait to see what else comes out of this era! 

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ZAYN MALIK:
    FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | WEBSITE

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    Rachel Finucane

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  • Our Feelings For The Script’s New Single Go ‘Both Ways’ For Sure

    Our Feelings For The Script’s New Single Go ‘Both Ways’ For Sure

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    One of our absolute favorite bands of all time is The Script. These guys have been making music for almost two decades now and have been the soundtrack to some very important moments in our lives. Which is why we’re stoked to see them back with another single and an album announcement! ‘Both Ways’ came out on Friday and it’s already made its way into our playlists and our hearts.

    The song seems to be a preview of what we can expect from The Script in the coming months: high energy, funky beats accompanied by lead singer Danny O’Donoghue’s powerful voice. And, of course, the promise that there is hope and light after dark times. And if you think we didn’t cry listening to “If you miss me like I miss you, then the feeling goes both ways” at the end of the chorus, then you’d be wrong.

    ‘Both Ways’ is the best way (hehe) to start off this new era of The Script and we cannot wait to see what comes next in their story. But we do have one clue: the band is set to release a new album, called Satellite, on August 16, which will include ‘Both Ways’ as the opener and 11 more tracks we cannot wait to hear. And if we had to guess, we’d say this is going to be quite the emotional ride, as Satellites is the first album the band will record and release after the passing of guitarist Mark Sheehan last year.

    “The album cover is silhouettes of me, Glen, and Ben Sargeant, our bassist, who’s been with us from the beginning. Then we have a hooded silhouette, because the air of Mark is still there. He always will be, but it’s also giving a tip of the hat to the future. It’ll never be the same Script. We’re just trying to get on and do what it is that we all feel is the next right thing to do and that’s to keep making more great music.”

    – Danny O’Donoghue on the design for the cover of Satellites

    Satellites album cover | Image Source: Courtesy of BMG

    And if you think that’s all, think again, dear reader! Because not only are The Script giving us a full album soon, they’re also heading back to the stage on a North American tour along with P!nk between August and October of this year, with a few headline shows in between as well. You can check out the full list of dates on their website here.

    And what did you think of ‘Both Ways?’ Tell us all about it by chatting with us on Twitter, Instagram and/or Facebook. We’d love to hear what you have to say!

    Need more music content in your life? Let us help you, honey!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SCRIPT:
    FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER | WEBSITE | YOUTUBE

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    Anna Bastos

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  • Hydra-headed Orlando metal group Thrull release album ‘Hard Mental Reset’

    Hydra-headed Orlando metal group Thrull release album ‘Hard Mental Reset’

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    click to enlarge

    Courtesy photo

    Thrull release new mini-album ‘Hard Mental Reset’

    For the past year, Orlando punk brutes Thrull have been gradually steeling their knuckles on stages around town opening for heavy hitters like Crowbar, the HIRS Collective and Primitive Man. Recently, though, they got official with the release of debut EP Hard Mental Reset.

    Although new, Thrull are a young all-star band with deep experience from some of the smartest pockets in the Orlando heavy underground. The trio — Michael Scotto (guitar/vocals), Julio Felix (drums/vocals) and Justin Fontes (bass/vocals) — have an impressive collective résumé that includes Witchbender, Ad Nauseum, Freakazoid, Burn to Learn and Emporos. But they first came together as bandmates in now-defunct death-grind group Flying Limbs.

    While the members played their current instruments in Flying Limbs, none of them con- tributed vocals. In this new band, they make up for that threefold. Summoning the notable vocal experience that each of them have, Thrull is a three-headed Hydra capable of high-wire singing, fiery punk shouts and metal growls all in rapid succession.

    On their five-song debut, Thrull harness the fires of hardcore, metal and noise rock to forge an impressively simian storm. Combining unchained rage and thoughtful dynamics, they’re both savage and intelligent like a gorilla. But Thrull are out to destroy, not get academic

    Nothing about Hard Mental Reset feels overthought. Recorded in a single day at Orlando’s Red Lion Recording Studio, the blunt-force EP hits with raw, thrilling immediacy. It’s a clinic in bare brutality and an exciting introduction to these new contenders.

    Hard Mental Reset now streams everywhere and sits atop TLU’s Spotify Playlist. It’s also available on cassette and CD via Bandcamp.


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    Bao Le-Huu

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  • 82Major Bring “Fearless Attitude” In New Album BEAT by 82

    82Major Bring “Fearless Attitude” In New Album BEAT by 82

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    82Major are back with their new album, BEAT by 82, and it’s nothing short of a slam dunk! Their highly anticipated return follows the wave of success after their debut. With this new album, the six-member group seamlessly blends hip-hop and K-Pop into a sound that solidifies their standing in the industry. On BEAT by 82, the guys seriously do a bit of everything, from infusing those Troy Bolton basketball vibes to their hands-on involvement in the songwriting process. And, of course, their vocals, rap, and choreo all blend together, being effortlessly cool. Even if they’re standing on a giant basketball (we’re looking at you, Yechan.)

    ‘Choke’

    BEAT by 82 starts off strong with the title track ‘Choke,’ which literally has you in a chokehold from the get-go. Don’t miss the clever nod to their name and South Korea’s country code (82) with the phone dial that opens the song. ‘Choke’ by 82Major is everything fans love about K-Pop title tracks, featuring that great contrast between a delicate pre-chorus and a severe chorus. The punchy choreography, the “fearless attitude” within the lyrics, and the transitions between black-and-white shots and modern choreography in the music video elevate the experience.

    ‘Birthday’

    The second song on the album, ‘Birthday,’ is the ultimate anthem for celebrations. Forget the traditional ‘Happy Birthday’ song; 82Major gifts us a new track that embraces that special day, appropriately titled ‘Birthday.’ On the song, the guys sing about making every day feel like a birthday for their lover, truly making sure they always feel spoilt and loved. And to that, we say, say less. With a bridge that begs to be played during those candle-blowing moments, the track is a gift in itself!

    ‘Illegal’

    Bringing back bold and powerful vibes, the next track on the album is ‘Illegal.’ Yechan sets the pace, opening with “pedal to the metal,” and the song follows suit. The steady hip-hop beat meets bold raps, with Seokjun’s deep register adding layers of confidence. The track itself is about the guys’ joint efforts to reach new heights as a group, leaving no doubt that they’re destined for greatness.

    ’82’

    Closing the album, ’82’ is the rap-heavy partner to the smooth predecessor, ‘Illegal.’ The collective chants in the chorus give it a playful energy. In fact, we’re picturing how fun this will be for fans to sing along with live on their upcoming tour. ’82’ is full of fiery verses and football references that reinforce the sporty aesthetic of the comeback.

    With BEAT by 82, 82Major don’t only make music, they make a statement. Each track showcases their versatility and fearless nature, solidifying their status as rookies to watch in the K-Pop scene. What’s your favorite song on BEAT by 82? Let us know in the comments on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. 

    Want to know more about 82Major? We’ve got your ultimate guide!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT 82MAJOR:
    INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER | YOUTUBE

    Featured Image Source: Jen Southern for THP!

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    Joanna Rose

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  • Justin Timberlake PISSED Britney Spears Drama Is ‘Overshadowing His New Music’! – Perez Hilton

    Justin Timberlake PISSED Britney Spears Drama Is ‘Overshadowing His New Music’! – Perez Hilton

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    Justin Timberlake’s comeback is not going according to plan — and he’s upset about it!

    You know by now that the 43-year-old singer is gearing up to release his first album in nearly six years, Everything I Thought It Was, next month. To kick off this next era, he dropped the track Selfish. However, Britney Spears fans were determined to sabotage the comeback single! And they successfully got the pop sensation’s 2011 song of the same name to the top of the iTunes charts!

    Related: So, About That Justin Timberlake Tease Of New *NSYNC Music…

    The Palmer actor hoped the drama from her memoir The Woman in Me would fade from everyone’s memory as he embarked on this big comeback. Clearly, that did not happen. What Justin failed to understand is the likelihood of Britney Army ever forgiving and forgetting the bombshell allegations is slim as they ride or die for the Toxic singer. And he only made the situation worse when he told everyone he wanted to apologize “to absolutely f**king nobody.”

    Now, a source told Page Six that Justin is “seething” over the drama with Britney! He’s mainly upset that it is completely “overshadowing his new music!” They added:

    “Justin had hoped the backlash [from Spears’ memoir] would’ve blown over by now so that he could focus on his new album, which he’s very excited about, but every day is something new.”

    Welp! He only has himself to blame for the drama currently “overshadowing” the album! Justin could have left the situation alone, as he had done over the past few months, and said nothing during his concert in New York City this week. But he decided to add fuel to the feud fire instead — even as Brit had been so sweet to him and praised his music!

    Reactions, Perezcious readers? Let us know in the comments!

    [Image via Loose Women/The Kelly Clarkson Show/YouTube]

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    Perez Hilton

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  • Giant statues with glowing eyes appear in Long Beach, New York City to mark Kid Cudi album release

    Giant statues with glowing eyes appear in Long Beach, New York City to mark Kid Cudi album release

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    Giant, wild-eyed statues of Kid Cudi suddenly appeared this week in Paris, New York City and off the coast of Long Beach, apparently marking the release of the rapper’s latest album, “INSANO.”

    The 33-foot, silver-colored statues all depict the Cleveland native with his arms outstretched, with blue and red lights shining eerily through empty eye sockets and a gaping mouth.

    After the first statue appeared in Paris at the Place de la Bourse, the French news agency AFP described it as depicting the rapper in a “demonic posture,” and said that his management reported it was due to start blaring music from the new 21-track album later in the day.

    The Long Beach version of the 39-year-old Grammy winner’s likeness appeared on a barge in Alamitos Bay on Friday morning, according to a statement city officials posted on social media. Officials said the statue was for a “private promotional event at a local business,” but that it could be seen from any city beach along the coast.

    After leaving the bay, the Cudi-carrying barge floated up and down the Long Beach shoreline till Friday evening, the city said. Over the weekend, it’s scheduled to pass by Redondo, Marina Del Rey, Santa Monica and Malibu, the Long Beach Post reported.

    The new album the statue is promoting officially dropped on Friday, featuring collaborations with Travis Scott, Pharrell Williams and ASAP Rocky. According to AFP, it also includes a sample from the 1990s smash hit “The Sign” by Ace of Base.

    “The responses to the album have been overwhelming,” the the rapper wrote on X, the social media site formerly known as Twitter. “I put my all into this album.”

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    Keri Blakinger

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  • Lucinda Williams on Her Life, Her Lyrics, and Everything In Between

    Lucinda Williams on Her Life, Her Lyrics, and Everything In Between

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    Well, there’s a tribe of people who live here; we like each other and hang together. I’ve had this same conversation with people here who are progressive and they all say, “We feel we live somewhere where we can join the fight and it’s going to make a difference.”

    How did you feel when Roe v. Wade was overturned?

    It was a shock—complete and utter dismay. It’s hard to wrap my head around it; like did that actually happen? It seems so unreal.

    Preorder Don’t Tell Anybody The Secrets I Told You from Amazon or Bookshop.

    Your husband manages you and you’ve collaborated with him a bit on songwriting. How is it living, working, and touring with him?

    It’s hard. At first it felt like it was stabilizing my life, but working on the book with Tom and living with him has been incredibly stressful. Women say [they have] hormonal things, but I think men have that too.

    You’re singing, but still unable to play guitar onstage. How do you feel touring and performing? 

    It’s exhausting. I enjoy the shows but the travel really tires me out. 

    You toured with Tom Petty and did a Hollywood Bowl concert with him the weekend before he died (in 2017)? 

    Yes, I had toured with him [previously] and we did the Hollywood Bowl together; we were just beginning to form a great friendship. Then he died. His death really affected me.

    Did you go through your own bad period of drugs or drinking?

    The drinking, yes. Some drugs, psychedelics mostly. The drinking didn’t come in until my 20s, 30s. As for drugs, I’ve never really got into the hard stuff. I’m a wine drinker, but I’d go into the bars on tour and the wines were horrific. So a friend told me to have vodka tonics instead. 

    You’ve credited Bob Dylan and Neil Young as musical influences; are there any female musicians who inspired you?

    I loved Bobbie Gentry—she was the first female voice I heard whose voice was low and husky. Most of the female voices I heard were high, pretty voices—Judy Collins, Joni Mitchell, Joan Baez. They had these amazing ranges and I could never sing like that; it was frustrating. I also listened to Memphis Minnie, Dinah Washington, and I loved Loretta Lynn and Tammy Wynette.

    What’s the new album like?

    I’ve got some great guest artists singing background vocals on it: Bruce Springsteen, Margo Price, Angel Olsen. I started cowriting with (New York City–based singer-songwriter) Jesse Malin—and one of my favorite songs on it is called “New York Comeback.” We recorded some stuff at the historic RCA studios in Nashville where legends like Tammy [Wynette] and Dolly [Parton] recorded. 

    Can you believe it’s the 44th anniversary of your first album?

    No, the thing with time just blows my mind. 

    All products featured on Vanity Fair are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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    Lisa Robinson

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  • Here’s the Star-Studded Tracklist of ILLENIUM’s 5th Studio Album – EDM.com

    Here’s the Star-Studded Tracklist of ILLENIUM’s 5th Studio Album – EDM.com

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    ILLENIUM has revealed the star-studded tracklist of his upcoming fifth studio album.

    The self-titled album features a slew of high-profile collaborators across 16 tracks, such as Avril Lavigne, All Time Low, Travis Barker and JVKE, among others. ILLENIUM also includes a joint track with electronic music stars Wooli and Grabbitz, “You Were Right.”

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    Jason Heffler

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