Let us start by saying that Starkissed is the most perfect name for a TXT album. It’s beyond fitting, and just so cute. TXT’s most recent album finished with ‘Song of the Stars,’ and now we get lots of Starkissed songs!
Instrumentals
One of the very best things about TXT’s Japanese albums is that we are treated to beautiful intro and outro instrumentals! ‘Intro: SPARK’ and ‘Outro: GLOW’ are no exception. We love how these two tracks open and close this chapter and, as always, we hope to see them live on in something else too… perhaps background music for the VCRs at the ACT: TOMORROW Japan Dome Tour? TXT’s creative team, our door is always open.
‘Can’t Stop’
The names ‘SPARK’ and ‘GLOW’ for an album with a starry concept are so gorgeous too, but they’re not the most-aptly named songs on Starkissed. The title track, ‘Can’t Stop,’ is perfect. It’s shot up to the top of all our ‘On Repeat’ playlists, and we truly ‘Can’t Stop’ streaming it. TXT, like a lot of K-Pop groups, usually lean towards ballads for Japanese singles, and this is easily their most fun, catchy Japanese release to date. Full of 80s synth and irresistible guitar riffs, the THP MOA hive was never going to survive this comeback unscathed.
Original Japanese B-Sides
Another one of the new Japanese original songs on Starkissed is ‘Where Do You Go?,’ a song that made us immediately jealous that we won’t be attending the Japan tour shows to see this IRL. It has a cute, bright energy that we haven’t seen from TXT in a while, and instantly reminded us of 2020’s ‘Wishlist.’
The final original track is ‘SSS (Sending Secret Signals),’ which is a pretty good tongue twister. Written by HYDE, this song is rich with the rock-pop energy everybody loves to see from TXT. The pre-chorus breakdown stole our breath the first time we heard it, not to mention Yeonjun’s spoken lines. HYDE is a music icon in Japan, having been active in the industry since 1988. As TXT’s global and Japanese fandoms continue to grow, we are so happy to see them getting the opportunities to work with such storied artists!
Re-Releases
Additionally, we were treated to Japanese versions of some of our other favorite TXT singles, ‘Beautiful Strangers,’ and ‘Deja Vu,’ as well as re-releases of ‘Step by Step,’ ‘Rise,’ and CHIKAI’s ‘We’ll Never Change’ and ‘Kitto Zutto.’ Not to mention that we, of course, had to be gifted with a Japanese version of our beloved ‘Song of the Stars!’
With the Starkissed release, we’ve got to indulge in several brand new songs, renew our love for some familiar ones, and enjoy plenty of TXT content on Japanese music and variety shows! Considering The Star Chapter: TOGETHER still feels like it came out yesterday (how has it been three months already?!), MOAs really do feel like the luckiest fandom.
What’s your favorite track from TXT’s Starkissed? What have you enjoyed about this comeback? Let us know on Twitter @TheHoneyPOP! Or, if you’d rather, you can also find us on Facebook and Instagram!
Cottage wh*res and coven queens, gather round. 1500s sirens with bleeding nipples and thrashing tails couldn’t out-sing Florence & The Machine when she’s in her mythic bag. And honestly? She’s been haunting (and treating us with) folklore since forever, so a Halloween album drop was never going to be a trick. Everybody Scream (produced by Florence Welch, Aaron Dessner, Mark Bowen & James Fordis) is what happens when gothic cathedral choirs get drunk on moonlight and sea salt. It’s got all the eerie elegance we crave—windchimes that tinkle not by breeze but by the ghost in the rafters on ‘Drink Deep,’ banshee wails curling through ‘You Can Have It All,’ and titles that flaunt their witchiness on lace sleeves, like ‘Witch Dance’ and ‘Sympathy Magic.’
To celebrate this deliciously deadly dawn, we conjured five crystal grids—one for each of our top tracks. Think moon-charged quartz, screaming carnelian, and obsidian that’s seen things. Because if Florence just opened a portal, you know we’re stepping through—in heels, of course.
🩸’Witch Dance’
Sounding like a possession in motion from the first breath, ‘Witch Dance’ channels the Irish grief ritual of keening—a loud, high-pitched wail for the dead—to express not just sorrow, but its collective release. The sound appears first in the intro, haunting the air, then sinks into the production like a ghost remembering its body. Yet beneath the communal mourning lies something achingly personal: a metaphorical coitus with death, referencing Florence’s near-death experience following an ectopic pregnancy two years ago. It all culminates in one of the record’s most gutting lines: “there’s nobody more monstrous than me.”
Ritual Grid for ‘Witch Dance:’ This grid hums where grief and ecstasy blur—light a single candle and let the flame waver with your breath.
Begin with Garnet at the base, the life-force ignition stone that grounds passion into the body and keeps your spirit tethered when it wants to drift.
Place Obsidian at the left point, a torch in the dark—it transforms pain into power, fear into fire.
End with Moonstone at the right point, the crystal of divine surrender, helping you release what must die so something softer can rise.
Sway with it. Let your pulse keep time with the keening. This isn’t mourning—it’s resurrection in motion.
🌊 ‘Kraken’
A ‘Cassandra’ lyric parallel? Yup, ‘Kraken’ has it. Where ‘Cassandra’—based on the Trojan princess cursed by Apollo so her prophecies would never be believed—asks, “Well, can you see me? I cannot see you,” ‘Kraken’ replies, “Well, do you see me now?” Both are metaphors for how the industry treats women as disposable, never granted the same footing as their male peers, only for her now to rise, colossal and undeniable, above what they once imagined. Its production is gorgeous: siren backing vocals, floorboards that creak like ship decks, the crackle of storm wind, and clapping chants that sound like beer-soaked sailors hailing their queen.
Ritual Grid for ‘Kraken’: This one’s for when you’re done shrinking for anyone.
Start with Aquamarine as the base—the ocean’s own crystal, a calm current through emotional turbulence.
Place Labradorite at the left point for transformation’s shimmer—it’s the flash right before you break the surface.
Finish with Chrysocolla on the right point, the stone of truth and song, to reclaim your voice and let it echo like waves against steel.
Breathe like the tide: in power, out release. You’ve always been the storm they whispered about.
🥀 ‘Buckle’
Even when thousands of adoring roses get thrown on stage, it’s the haunting, withered black one that catches your eye—the one that reminds you what it feels like when your muse takes you for granted. ‘Buckle,’ co-written by Mitski, is an ode to that lonely ache of being an option even when, in Florence’s case, the entire world treats her like a star. With its hushed, stripped-back guitar melody, it’s the moment the curtains fall away and you’re not watching the bewitching siren anymore—you’re watching the woman underneath.
Ritual Grid for ‘Buckle’: Lay your crystals under dim candlelight—no spotlight here, just soft flicker.
Rhodonite sits at the heart center: its rose-pink glow streaked with black veins, a spell for love after chaos.
Place a Smoky Quartz at the left point to ground your grief and dissolve any attachments that still hum with old pain.
End with Rose Quartz at the crown or center of your palm, its light-pink aura whispering, you are worthy of softness, even when the music stops.
Breathe deep. Let the melody hum through your bones. This is how you heal when even the applause feels lonely.
🕯️ ‘The Old Religion’
Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Florence & The Machine fans, eat your heart out. When talking to Radio X, Florence said that while writing ‘The Old Religion’ with Aaron Dessner, she was trying to craft something that belonged in those worlds. A few decades may have passed since Buffy’s slay-age, and our vampires might now come with daylight rings and leather jackets (looking at you, Damon Salvatore), but this track shows us exactly what those shadowy realms would sound like, infused with Florence’s haunted brilliance.
Beyond its vampiric glamour, ‘The Old Religion’ also confronts addiction—its harrowing guitar-piano pairing layered with trembling drums and the biting line, “And it’s your troubled hero back for season six.” The lyric mirrors both Florence’s own cyclical rebirth in her sixth album and Buffy’s literal resurrections throughout the series: her leaps through portals, her returns from death, her endless struggle to find light in the dark.
Ritual Grid for ‘The Old Religion’: This grid hums best under candlelight—a flicker for every life you’ve survived.
Start with Pyrite at the base: a golden shield of unshakable confidence, your armor when the shadows flirt too close.
Anchor Black Tourmaline at the left point to keep you grounded through energy surges—the kind that make your pulse feel supernatural.
End with Carnelian on the right point for raw instinct, sacred rage, and the courage to release what no longer feeds you.
Let the music rumble through your ribs like a heartbeat you’ve heard in a hundred lifetimes. You’ve slain your monsters before—this time, you dance with them.
🌙 ‘And Love’
Our gorgeous outro—and perhaps a subconscious echo of ‘My Love’ from Dance Fever—’And Love’ feels like the wish the album itself has been building toward. Amid its messy, scream-worthy sisters, Florence describes this track with Zane Lowe on Apple Music as the quiet incantation that wants to come true. There’s this stunning duality: Florence describes love as a kind of deep hibernation in the second verse, then transforms it into a mantra by the chorus, repeating “peace is coming” like she’s manifesting serenity by living in the end. Between the glimmering chimes reclaiming their spotlight and Florence’s celestial vocals, it’s a lullaby that feels too brief for the kind of calm it casts.
Ritual Grid for ‘And Love’: Set this grid somewhere gentle—on your nightstand, altar, or near your heart as you drift toward dreams.
Begin with Selenite at the base, a beam of divine clarity that purifies and allows light to flow through the cracks you once called flaws.
Anchor Green Aventurine to the left point for steady heart healing and the courage to open again.
Close with Lepidolite, lightly infused with lavender if you can, on the right point to soothe anxiety and whisper peace through your aura.
Take a breath, slow and sure. Let the words “peace is coming” echo softly within you until they no longer sound like hope—only truth.
Which crystal grid are you stuffing into your bra? You know Florence would approve. Or maybe you’ve got your tarot deck spread across the floor, asking if you’re “gonna be in pit” for her newly announced North American tour—featuring Rachel Chinouriri, SOFIA ISELLA, CMAT, and Mannequin Pussy joining the coven for select dates.
Either way, manifest a blessing from us by tweeting your own crystal grid inspired by one of the other songs @thehoneypop. Then follow our Facebook and Instagram for more of the Halloween magic we dropped all October long.
Is it hot in here, or is it just PSYCHIC FEVER turning up the heat with their latest release, ‘SWISH DAT?’ We’re betting on the latter! KOKORO, WEESA, TSURUGI, RYOGA, REN, JIMMY, and RYUSHIN have had a banner year, complete with their PSYCHIC FILE III EP, sold-out shows across multiple continents, and an appearance at SXSW’s Friends From The East Showcase, but they’re still giving their absolute all to this new drop. We’re exhausted even just thinking about all the hard work they’ve put in throughout 2025 yet they make it look so effortless. ForEVER are so proud of their dedication and passion!
‘SWISH DAT’ was selected as the theme song for the Japanese show Masked NINJA Akakage, and we think it was a truly perfect choice. If we were channel surfing and heard a theme tune like this, we’d immediately drop the remote and add it to all our playlists! It pays homage to Japanese culture in its lyrics, choreography, and music video while also feeling like a mission statement of sorts for PSYCHIC FEVER. It shows off their ambition and drive to be the best artists they can be while proudly repping Japan as they rise on the global music scene. And REN’s stunning high note?! They “go swish” and we go to recommend it to all of our friends.
“A silent declaration, proven in the darkness Leaping past even flaws to the heights beyond…”
Whether ‘SWISH DAT’ is the first you’ve heard from PSYCHIC FEVER or you’ve been a ForEVER for a while, we have a special treat for you! We’re psyched to share that we got to do a fun Q&A with the members for fans to get to know them better. Press play on ‘SWISH DAT’ above or maybe even their PSYCHIC FILE III EP, then keep reading to learn all about PSYFE from PSYFE.
KOKORO
You’ve said that your training was a difficult time and that you were anxious about the future, but you’ve been able to push through and light up so many fans’ lives as part of PSYCHIC FEVER. What motivates you during hard times, especially now that you’ve made it through some of the hardest ones you faced? My dreams and the support of everyone who cheers me on are my driving force. All the struggles and worries I’ve faced have now become part of who I am, allowing me to motivate myself no matter what.
Earlier this year, you released your first photobook, Kokoro no Oto, which you shot in Thailand! What was it like for you to create this book and see how much ForEVER have loved it? It truly made me happy and was a blessing for me. The photobook brought out charms I didn’t even know I had, so I hope you’ll continue to enjoy it.
You’ve been learning guitar, which must be so fun! What are your favorite kinds of songs to play? Will you be playing on a PSYCHIC FEVER song in the future? I practice guitar as a hobby! I play ballads, jazz, rock, and a wide range of genres! My dream is to perform live someday!
Which PSYCHIC FEVER song do you think matches your personality best and why? The song that immediately comes to mind is ‘BAKU BAKU.’ It’s a track about moving toward your dreams even amidst anxiety and tension, and it’s one I feel truly represents who I am. It captures the emotions I feel when facing new challenges like my first stage performance or recording sessions, so I chose this song.
I think it also applies to songs I haven’t released yet, so please look forward to them!
At The Honey POP, we love all things sweet! Could you say something sweet about your fellow PSYCHIC FEVER members? What I love about our group is how warmly everyone sends each other off when we have individual activities, and cheers each other on with “Do your best!” You don’t often see this on stage, but I’m constantly reminded how kind my members are and how glad I am to be in this group.
Is there anything else you’d like to mention or say to your fans, ForEVER, that the questions didn’t touch on? Thank you so much for always giving us your warm support and energy. We’ll keep working hard toward our dreams to deliver music and live entertainment that’s uniquely ours and that you’ll enjoy. Please look forward to our future activities!
Image Source: LDH Japan
WEESA
Mac Miller has been a big inspiration for you, and you’ve called him your hero! What do you love most about his work? What would it mean for you to be able to move PSYCHIC FEVER fans who want to be musicians in a similar way? I’ve loved Mac Miller since middle school, and listening to his music made me want to create my own songs. I think the first time I properly made a song, I used one of his type beats. His vibe and singing style felt truly one-of-a-kind, and I got hooked.
If there are people out there who see us and think, “I want to start making music too,” that would make me incredibly happy.
You told KpopWise that you listen to music before your performances to get yourself hyped up. What kind of music has been motivating you lately? The songs I listen to vary completely depending on my mood, but I basically listen to whatever songs I like across all genres.
In addition to music, you also love art and have been drawing for a long time. What inspires your art, and might we see your art on a PSYCHIC FEVER album cover anytime soon? I often get inspired by watching movies or looking at other artists’ paintings. Drawing also helps me switch gears, so sometimes I draw instead of writing in a diary.
If there’s ever an opportunity that my works fit the album’s concept, I’d definitely love to draw for it.
Which PSYCHIC FEVER song do you think matches your personality best and why? I really love the lyrics to ‘Rocket (Take You Higher).’ I’m not sure if it matches my personality, but I get really into singing it.
At The Honey POP, we love all things sweet! Could you say something sweet about your fellow PSYCHIC FEVER members? All the members have such unique personalities. They might look a little scary… it’s [a] joke! but they have cute sides too, so please come check out our live shows if you can.
Is there anything else you’d like to mention or say to your fans, ForEVER, that the questions didn’t touch on? We’ll keep working hard to deliver even more amazing songs to everyone. I’d be thrilled if you listened to our music a lot and came to our live shows.
Image Source: LDH Japan
TSURUGI
You’ve mentioned that you continued training while working part-time jobs and facing many struggles. How does it feel now to have become a shining member of PSYCHIC FEVER and to be loved by so many fans worldwide years later? It really made me realize nothing beats experience! Working for someone else, or working for others and for myself—I learned that from part-time jobs! Now I live for my fans!
You have a black belt in karate and started practicing when you were very young – what’s something you learned through your karate journey that’s helped you in your music career? Greetings! Karate is a martial art that values etiquette! It taught me that greetings are extremely important.
Even now, in my work as an artist, I believe greeting people and communicating are essential. So I think my karate experience really comes into play.
It’s so cool that you collect vintage cowboy hats! What interests you the most about cowboys and their style? Where do you get inspiration for your own style? What fascinates me is their attitude of “working to live!”
I deeply respect how they cherish the land and live authentically alongside all life! I believe expressing your true self is crucial for artists, so this became my inspiration!
Which PSYCHIC FEVER song do you think matches your personality best and why? It’s ‘Temperature!’ In this song, I rap about the relationship between me and my fans in a super real way! Of course, body temperature rises, but it also really captures how fans mimic me and come to match me! I think it gets the crowd the most hyped at live shows.
At The Honey POP, we love all things sweet! Could you say something sweet about your fellow PSYCHIC FEVER members? Just looking at you guys makes me feel like I’m melting! Like the sweets, you guys are absolutely essential to my life.
Is there anything else you’d like to mention or say to your fans, ForEVER, that the questions didn’t touch on? I’m always so incredibly happy that you all support us. I’m also looking forward to seeing everyone! I love you! Always have, always will!
Image Source: LDH Japan
RYOGA
You spent some time studying dance in the United States, and you’ve now gotten to perform throughout the U.S. at sold-out PSYCHIC FEVER shows. Those must have been such full-circle moments for you! If you could go back and give some advice to your younger self who was working so hard to study dance around the world, what would you tell him? I want to tell them, “Just keep believing and moving forward, and you’ll be fine. ”The time I spent in America taught me more than just dance technique—it taught me the courage to challenge myself. In an environment with different language and culture, I learned the importance of believing in myself and taking action.
Thanks to that experience, where I never gave up and kept going, I’m able to stand on this dream stage today.
And, the skills and senses I gained from that experience are definitely alive in my current performances with PSYCHIC FEVER. I feel everything connects to the present.
Earlier this year, you said that your keyword for PSYCHIC FEVER in 2025 was “EVOLVE” so you could keep growing and learning. How do you feel that you and your groupmates have evolved throughout this year? Our “teamwork” as a group has grown stronger. Of course, each member has improved their skills, but the biggest change is that we’ve become able to naturally move in sync with each other on stage, sensing one another’s presence.
Personally, I feel I’ve become better at expressing my emotions more honestly.
Also, being able to perform in many countries and regions this year is also a factor in our evolution. Being exposed to new cultures and atmospheres definitely allowed us to “evolve” in terms of our expressive range and mindset.
You’ve enjoyed movies like Fast and Furious – if you could choose one PSYCHIC FEVER song to appear in a Fast and Furious sequel or a similar movie, which would you pick and what kind of scene would you want it to be in? I’d choose ‘Hotline.’ It has a sense of speed and energy, and I think it would be perfect for car racing scenes or scenes speeding through the city at night. The feeling of the sound racing forward feels like it would link well with the Fast & Furious world.
Which PSYCHIC FEVER song do you think matches your personality best and why? ‘Choose One.’ I’m the type who sees things through once I decide on them, so I really resonate with the message of “believing in your path and moving forward.” I think it’s close to how I live my life. Listening to this song reminds me of past decisions and efforts, and it still gives me the strength to keep moving forward.
At The Honey POP, we love all things sweet! Could you say something sweet about your fellow PSYCHIC FEVER members? Everyone is truly made of “kindness.” Probably. lol.
Even with our demanding schedules, if someone looks tired, we naturally check in on them. We support each other. In that sense, I think we’re more of a “warm” group than a “sweet” one.
Is there anything else you’d like to mention or say to your fans, ForEVER, that the questions didn’t touch on? Thank you so much for always supporting our music and activities. It’s because of you that we can stand on stage. Let’s keep “evolving” together from here on out. We love you, ForEVER!!
Image Source: LDH Japan
REN
Before you joined PSYCHIC FEVER, you originally wanted to be a professional dancer. What has it been like for you to get to pursue dancing while also touching so many people with your music? I originally started dancing because I admired Michael Jackson’s moves, wanting to become a dancer who could inspire others. Dance allows me to express myself in various ways and connect with everyone watching, transcending language barriers. I’ll keep striving to continue moving many people through dance.
You’ve said discovering new ramen spots is one of your biggest hobbies. What’s your go-to ramen order? My absolute favorite is tonkotsu shoyu (soy sauce and pork bone broth ramen). Within that, adding a boiled egg and extra scallions, then mixing them into the soup, makes it incredibly delicious.
You were more shy as a child and have said that your face would turn bright red when speaking in front of people. How have you built your confidence over the years to be able to connect more with ForEVER? Through performance. Performing makes my shy side disappear. I naturally smile and pour my feelings into conveying my message through the performance. It’s like another version of myself.
Which PSYCHIC FEVER song do you think matches your personality best and why? ‘Best For You.’ It’s not just about personality—it was also the first song I sang lead vocals on, and it’s a song where I discovered a new side of myself. So it’s a key song for me.
At The Honey POP, we love all things sweet! Could you say something sweet about your fellow PSYCHIC FEVER members? I’ll invite you to a sweet paradise with my voice. With a beatbox. lol
Is there anything else you’d like to mention or say to your fans, ForEVER, that the questions didn’t touch on? Thank you for always supporting us. We’ll keep practicing and training hard to shine on the stage. We have lots of songs in production and things in the works, so please look forward to them. I love you all.
Image Source: LDH Japan
JIMMY
Fans call you the fashion icon of PSYCHIC FEVER and we love your personal style! You’ve even walked some runways and helped design merch for ForEVER to enjoy, which must be so fun. What inspires your fashion choices? I’ve loved fashion since I was little, so I’m incredibly happy to be involved in it. Having worked as a model, I enjoy wearing various genres, but for our apparel brand, since we often perform and move intensely, I focus on creating silhouettes that look cool no matter when you wear them, yet remain comfortable.
You grew up listening to iconic R&B artists like Boyz II Men, Destiny’s Child, and TLC. How do you bring those early influences to your work with PSYCHIC FEVER? I listened to a lot of Black music from a young age, influenced by my parents. Those roots serve as an incredibly valuable reference point for me when creating music and performances. We actively incorporate the preferences and styles that resonate with other members as we explore new genres.
You’ve spoken about wanting to try acting to inspire fellow mixed-race people and show them that they can pursue their dreams, which we love. What has it been like for you to embrace your Nigerian-Japanese identity and get to empower others in the process? I have so many moments in my life where music, starting with R&B and hip-hop, helped me. But in the TV shows and dramas I watched growing up, there weren’t many mixed-race people like me. The same was true when choosing a career path. So I think I unconsciously gravitated toward music.
As an artist in the spotlight, I want to show the next generation of young people that there are many possibilities. I just happened to be good at dance and rap, but I want to show that I can shine in other areas too. That’s why I wanted to try acting and play various roles.
Which PSYCHIC FEVER song do you think matches your personality best and why? ‘Highlights.’ I think the feeling of occasionally letting loose and getting hyped up really suits my personality. It’s super fun to perform, too!
At The Honey POP, we love all things sweet! Could you say something sweet about your fellow PSYCHIC FEVER members? Thanks for always putting up with my whims! I love cooking, so someday I want to treat everyone to a special full-course meal.
Is there anything else you’d like to mention or say to your fans, ForEVER, that the questions didn’t touch on? Thank you for always supporting us! I’d be thrilled if you keep cheering for PSYCHIC FEVER, and please come hang out whenever we have a live show! Also, check out our apparel brand, PCF APPAREL DEPARTMENT!
Image Source: LDH Japan
RYUSHIN
You’ve been described as the mood maker of PSYCHIC FEVER. How do you keep the energy high and motivate everyone while working hard for your dreams? I’m incredibly grateful that what I’ve always done—like dancing—has become my job, so I always get to do it with joy!
That’s why even when I’m with the members, it feels like working with friends, which probably creates a great atmosphere!
One of your hobbies is playing games, and you told tmrw that it helps you stay grounded through your hectic schedules. What are some of your favorite games to escape into? Smash Bros! I play it with Ren and Kokoro. We always play after a performance to refresh!
You played baseball and practiced judo when you were younger before focusing on dance and music. What’s something you learned from your athletic training that you’ve taken with you into your journey with PSYCHIC FEVER? Teamwork, I guess! Baseball is also a team sport, so that aspect is the same. I feel like I naturally apply it!
Which PSYCHIC FEVER song do you think matches your personality best and why? ‘Temperature!’ Both the choreography and the music are totally my style, and I’ve always loved it! When we perform that song, I feel like I can really express myself and give my all in the performance!
At The Honey POP, we love all things sweet! Could you say something sweet about your fellow PSYCHIC FEVER members? I think everyone might have a slightly intimidating image at first glance, but they also have adorable sides in everyday life. If you check out our SNS, you’ll probably see that!
Is there anything else you’d like to mention or say to your fans, ForEVER, that the questions didn’t touch on? Thank you so much for always supporting us! It’s because of all of you, ForEVER, that we can keep doing what we do, and you give us energy every single day!
We’ll keep working hard to give back double the love we receive from you all, so we’d be thrilled if you’d continue supporting us!
Image Source: LDH Japan
Thank you so much to PSYCHIC FEVER for answering our questions and lighting up our playlists with ‘SWISH DAT’ and PSYCHIC FILE IIIthis year! We’re so proud of how far you’ve come and can’t wait to see what you have in store for ForEVER next.
Now, honeybees, we have some questions for you! What’s your favorite song PSYCHIC FEVER have released in 2025? Who’s your favorite member? Let us know in the comments below or hit us up on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! You can also buzz on over to our Reddit community to chat with us.
TGIF and TGWHNMFD (Thank god we have new music from Dayseeker!). We’ve been so hyped for this album ever since it was announced. We absolutely loved the singles from Creature in the Black Night, including ‘Pale Moonlight’ and the title track, ‘Creature In The Black Night.’ However, they also saved some of the best for the album release. The entire album is just a pure work of art and the lyrics are absolutely beautiful. Since we’ve had enough time to love the singles, here are our 5 favorite lyrics from unreleased tracks from Creature In The Black Night.
‘Soulburn’
“You’re still so angry and cynical A parasite that latches on to kill the host”
‘Cemetery Blues’
“Carry me until the devil is asleep Watch me bloom from the dirt I’m underneath Death is only waiting for a final breath”
‘Nocturnal Remedy’
“The wicked thoughts that I embrace Watch them creep through alleyways”
‘The Living Dead’
“Know the fire’s therе inside me, I just need some gasoline Let it burn through all my trauma, let me cry for you in peace So the living dead are a real thing, hard to fathom, but I see Just a corpse that’s half alive in the mirror looking back at me”
‘Meet The Reaper’
“Blur the past and the present when I look into your eyes I collapse through the ceiling when I’m coming off your high”
What do you think of Dayseeker’s new album, Creature In The Black Night and what are your favorite lyrics? Let us know in the comments, on Facebook, Instagram, or by tweeting us @thehoneypop!
All year, we’ve been begging Madison Beer for a new album. She recently teased us with two new singles, ‘yes baby’ and ‘bittersweet.’ Naturally, we had to assume an album announcement was on the way. As we crossed our fingers and rewatched old tour videos, Madison was secretly gearing up for something even bigger…
The Singles
‘yes baby’
Madison Beer is releasing new music!? To that we say, yes, baby! If you’ve been a fan of Madison Beer for a long time, like us, you’ll know that she’s been releasing more and more electro-pop dance music. It seemed to be that ‘15 MINUTES’ and ‘Make You Mine’ were just a taste of the ferocity that ‘yes baby’ is giving us. ‘Yes baby’ was Madison’s first release of 2025, and boy, did it not disappoint. Fans are also getting an upgrade in Madison’s music videos! Here in the hive, you know that we die for a killer music video, and Madison’s new era is certainly delivering on the visuals – these outfits are everything!
‘bittersweet’
Madison’s second single, ‘bittersweet,’ seemed to drop quickly after ‘yes baby,’ giving us high expectations for the full soon-to-be-album. Finding stillness in the chaos of love and life seems to be a constant theme through Madison’s music, and ‘bittersweet’ portrays these themes perfectly. Naturally, we added this absolute hit to our playlists and will be streaming it nonstop alongside its sister single, ‘yes baby.’
“bittersweet is about the end of a chapter and the difficulty of coming to terms with it, while also recognizing that deep down you know it’s for the best—and finding peace in that along the journey”
Madison Beer stated in a press release
Locket – Out January 16th
The biggest news in music today is Madison Beer’s album announcement! When we saw this announcement on socials, we shrieked with excitement! We’ve been waiting and waiting, and now the day is finally here. With this new album release, we’re most excited to hear Madison’s artistic and vocal growth, gush over gorgeous new visuals, and prep for a (potential) tour. Madison’s next studio album, locket, drops on January 16, 2025. Let the countdown begin!
“After writing the album it feels like each song lives within this metaphorical locket for safe keeping. Each album feels like an era and once the albums are out in the world the chapter for me, usually with what I wrote about, is closed.”
Madison Beer stated in a press release
Image Source: Courtesy of Epic Records
As usual, Madison is so intentional with her art, and from what we can already tell, locket is going to be a special one. You can pre-save her new album here and join us in the excitement on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Drop a comment telling us which single, ‘yes baby’ or ‘bittersweet’ was your favorite.
Dogpark is taking to the streets of New York City and singing their heart out. Following their recent EP, Until The Tunnel Vision Melts, they’ve released two singles: ‘September’ and ‘I Don’t Mind.’ In case you needed convincing, these two songs tell us exactly why Dogpark is one to watch. ‘I Don’t Mind’ marries the idea of the corporate side of their beloved New York and the artistic. It also teases what’s to come with their music.
Already, Dogpark has made themselves stand out in the rock scene by bringing a fresh perspective to a classic sound. Ahead of their The Corporate Pudding Tour, we chatted with them about their journey as a band, their new music, and their take on the music industry.
Welcome to The Honey Pop! Would you mind introducing yourself to our readers? Hi, we’re Dogpark. We’re a rock band from New York City, our members are….
Eamon Moore, lead vocals, keys
Declan Harris, lead guitar
Billy Apostolou, rhythm guitar, background vocals
We met in college at the University of Richmond, and formed around the end of 2022, and started releasing music in late 2023. We’ve done a lot of touring since leaving college, including opening slots for The Moss in Summer 2024, Headline U.S. tour fall of 2024, Opening for Marcus King Band in Spring of 2025, and now we are currently on our second nationwide headline tour. Our music is always evolving and is always at the center of band’s focus. We like to mess around and have a good time and try to spread that kind of energy with our music.
Dogpark’s Journey
You started out playing mostly covers at frat parties at the University of Richmond. Was italways the plan to evolve past that as a band? It’s hard to say that there was much of a “plan”. We initially were playing mostly to satiate our own desires to play music in a band, and slowly it became a good source of income for us, especially as college students. I’d say once we started to take off a bit on TikTok, it brought in all the suits and music industry people, and it all became more of a serious proposition. We went out to LA for a month in the summer of 2023 to write and record what ended up being our first EP, and that was really where it became clear this was a real possibility for us.
You’ve come a long way in such a short time, going from college shows to selling out a headline tour and playing festivals. Has your approach to performing changed at all? I don’t think our approach really has changed at all. We still want to put on the most entertaining show we can for the crowd, and play music we’re interested in. Back then, we used to play a ton of covers during our frat sets because we didn’t have any originals, but now that we have a catalog, our shows are obviously centered around those now. And we’re definitely all much better musicians than when we were playing in frat basements. I think also early on there was a feeling of do or die with every show, now maybe there is a little less pressure on each individual show since we’ve played so many. It’s less exhilarating at times, but it allows you to enjoy it too a bit more, maybe.
Coming up in the age of social media, a few of your viral TikTokscatapulted you to widespread recognition quickly. What was it like to experience that shift so fast? It’s a bit strange because, for the most part, everything is the same in your life. It’s not like people recognize you on the street (for the most part), and you aren’t really “famous,” but simultaneously millions of people engage with your content. I think specifically with content that is based around pre-existing content, like song covers, for example, it’s especially strange because there really is more of a connection to these songs than there is to us covering them, that’s more so what is driving the engagement. So, breaking the barrier with original content was just a new challenge we faced.
Photo Credit: Ilona Donovan
Making The Music
Between songs like ‘Breaking In Brooklyn’ and ‘Washington Square Park,’ a lot of your songs focus on places that seem important to you. How do you channel these settings and your feelings about them into your music? I think typically when we include a song about a setting, it involves either a memory, or a dream, or someone else’s memory that took place there. I think also, since people are aware of cities and their connotations, it’s just a way to provide a sort of backdrop and ambiance to a song, just by referencing it.
We love your take on the indie-rock sound in your last EP, Until The Tunnel Vision Melts! What was the process for bringing that EP to life? The process for that EP took a while. We started writing some of the songs on that project over a year before we ended up getting to record them. When we finally had them written, we flew out to LA to work with our Producer, Carlos De La Garza. We all heard his credits before and knew he would do a great job. We recorded the songs in two sessions at Apogee Studios in LA. The recording didn’t take so long because we had been playing those songs for a while on stage, so we had a ton of reps.
The first single off Corporate Pudding, ‘September’ sounds just like moving from the endof summer into the colder months, which matches the way the relationship seems to be going in the song. What does this song mean to you? The song is really about an ominous feeling. Knowing that the end of a relationship is coming before anyone has said anything about it. And usually in this situation, no one does say anything. and it drags out and it ends poorly. Thankfully for us, we’re all in happy relationships now, but when I wrote this, I (Eamon) had been single for a while, and this was a common experience for me where I could sense bad feelings but was unable to act and had to watch the unfolding of events, just like we are powerless to stop the seasons from changing.
Dogpark’s Perspective
Teasing your upcoming project, Corporate Pudding, you’ve mentioned that it’s inspired by your “frustrations with the music industry and the corporate world.” How do you think cominginto the industry from the independent college scene has shaped your perspective on the music industry? I don’t know if it’s coming in from the college scene that’s shaped our perspective, but as people who enjoy music as fans and are obsessed with the craft, you quickly learn that dollar bills are the only thing that matters to the people in charge of curating today’s music. There is a pervasive issue that goes far beyond music in American culture that whenever a cool thing sprouts up organically, you must milk it dry for every dollar it’s worth, and in the process, drain the cool organic thing of everything that made it cool in the first place. That’s not to say no one in the A&R or label business has an ear for music; they need to. But I think their ear is honed in on music and promotional strategies that they think maximize their chances to earn the most money, naturally. And of course, we all want to make money, but it leads to conflict when most artists just want to make the music they make, and they feel uncomfortable altering the way they sound or are promoted to appease suits. I think it’s naturally inspired us to write some music that attacks and comments on greed in the U.S.
You also mentioned that the sound of your next project is inspired by your life in New York City. How has the music scene in New York influenced your music? I think it’s more so the energy of the city and the hectic nature of it has inspired the sonics. Similar to the way bands like the Strokes and LCD Soundsystem were able to harness the energy of the city into their music, or at least that’s the mindset. It’s a bit hard to define what the NYC scene is since it’s so massive, but I do think the rock scene is becoming more defined now, though, and there does seem to be an influx of bands forming here that are getting a bit of traction at the same time, so it’s an exciting time to be.
We imagine the scene is quite different in New York than in Richmond. How have you seen your music evolve since moving? Not really much evolution in that sense, we all grew up around the New York area, so we’ve all been familiar with that scene for a while, and it took root in our music early on. I think from the first two projects to this one, though, that the NYC influence has probably manifested itself most on this upcoming project. We recorded the first two EPs in LA with producers who live in LA, and with this upcoming project, we recorded in Pennsylvania, just a few hours from NYC, with Phil Joly, who has done a lot of amazing work in NYC; it all fits right.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Big Loud Rock
Considering the way you started out, are there any up-and-coming artists you want toput us on to? We really love all the bands that are opening for us on the corporate pudding tour, but one that we’ve been listening to a ton recently is Rehash. Their music is evocative of a lot of our favorite influences and executed amazingly, especially for how young they are. We’re really excited to play some shows with them soon. Edgehill is another really great band that’s opening for us and on our label. I think we all loved watching Hans Williams at Mighty Roots festival last year, and also, there’s a Swedish band we’ve been listening to called Girl Scout, and they are excellent.
Lastly, is there anything you want to tease about what you have coming up? We’re on tour right now until December, and we have a ton of new music on the way. Leaning a bit more into the Corporate Pudding theme, which should slowly unravel itself over the course of the year.
And we’re obsessed. Between the nostalgic ‘September’ and the rebellious ‘I Don’t Mind,’ Dogpark’s next chapter is gearing up to be one you don’t want to miss. Recently, they’ve landed themselves on People’s Talented Emerging Artists list, and they’ve set off on their headline tour (buy tickets here). And they’ve made it clear they’re just getting started.
So follow along on their journey, and let us know your thoughts at @thehoneypop on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!
As adoring NSWERs from their debut era, we’re so proud of every step that’s led NMIXX to blossom so much on their first full album, Blue Valentine. The album brings their Mixxpop concept to life with so much ambition and perfectly emulates what they’ve brought to K-Pop and the global music scene. Blue Valentine brings us some of the most naturally flowing Mixxpop yet, integrating everything from pop-punk and R&B to reggaeton and hyperpop. It touches so much sonic ground, but NMIXX had been priming us to expect that from the beginning of their career with ‘O.O.’
‘O.O’ made a lot of waves when it first came out in February 2022, for varying reasons. Some people praised the dynamic sound, which combined elements of bold baile funk with bright pop-rock, while others thought it was too mismatched and jarring. As ‘O.O’ lovers, we’ve had a theory that the big switch-up was intentional to drill the idea of Mixxpop into people’s heads right out of the gate, and we feel very vindicated now that Blue Valentine has proven us right.
The girls gave us two new versions of ‘O.O’ at the tail-end of the album: ‘O.O Part 1 (Baila)’ and ‘O.O Part 2 (Superhero).’ The credits divide the credits of the original song, proving that it was made up of two different tracks all along with a few writers contributing to both. Check out the separated credits below!
‘O.O Part 1 (Baila)’ songwriters: Awrii (The Hub), Ayushy (The Hub), Brian U (The Hub), Chanti (The Hub), Charlotte Wilson, Dr.JO, ENAN, Jan Baars, Rajan Muse
‘O.O Part 2 (Superhero)’ songwriters: Brian U (The Hub), Charlotte Wilson, Dr.JO, Ejae (yes, from KPop Demon Hunters!), MarkAlong
Of course, if you’re a hardcore NSWER, you’ve most likely known the separation existed, because NMIXX performed both versions at their NMIXX CHANGE UP : MIXX UNIVERSITY fan meeting in October 2023. This was also probably intentional to reflect how the ones who care and take the time to understand the music will be the ones to learn its real secrets. After all, a lot of debut-era NSWERs became fans after picking up on the backlash and wanting to “get” the song!
The only thing we’d change about NMIXX’s debut era is how much hate the girls got. Musically, we’d change absolutely nothing! Whether you liked ‘O.O’ or not, you knew NMIXX brought a lot of different sounds to the table, and they got to show you two very different sides of what they can do. And as a result, the change-ups since then have felt very smooth, prompting many of the people who hated on ‘O.O’ to celebrate NMIXX’s growth and maturation as they refine their sound.
Hearing Lily’s battle cry of “Do you see it now?” and their chant of “Gonna rock the world” after listening to the new tracks on Blue Valentine felt like such triumphant moments. The two lines, especially Lily’s, call out the people who bashed the big changes on songs like ‘O.O’ and ‘DICE’ right after proving just how beautiful Mixxpop and their concept can be, and point out the growth that artists can show off if you put your initial judgments aside and give them a chance. NMIXX pushed through the negativity and have continued to become one of the most fascinating groups on the global music scene. We couldn’t be prouder of Lily, Haewon, Sullyoon, Bae, Jiwoo, and Kyujin!
What do you think of the new versions of ‘O.O?’ Which one is your fave? Did hearing ‘Baila’ and ‘Superhero’ separately change your view of the original song? Let us know in the comments below or hit us up on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! You can also buzz on over to our Reddit community to chat with us.
As adoring NSWERs from their debut era, we’re so proud of every step that’s led NMIXX to blossom so much on their first full album, Blue Valentine. The album brings their Mixxpop concept to life with ambition and tact, drawing from everything from pop-punk and R&B to reggaeton and hyperpop. “I could make the world change, start a new planet,” they sing on the confident ‘Reality Hurts,’ and we think that perfectly emulates what they’ve brought to K-Pop and the global music scene. NMIXX have completely redefined what K-Pop can be while encouraging listeners to expand their own ideas of what’s possible.
NMIXX use the songs on Blue Valentine to explore different aspects of love, including those infuriating hot-and-cold situations and even envy, which is often regarded as admiration in disguise. It all culminates in two new versions of their debut single, ‘O.O’ (which they first performed at their NMIXX CHANGE UP : MIXX UNIVERSITY fan meeting), showing us how the track started off as two different songs that they combined to emphasize the idea of mixxpop. There’s not a single skip on this album, and we bet it’ll land on your list of this year’s best releases!
Inspired by the Valentine theme and the loving messages on NMIXX’sBlue Valentine album, we’re mentally heading to Valentine’s Day and finding the perfect messages for you to write on your V-Day cards! Consider this our love letter to an already-legendary project. You could write these on notes to your crush, frenemies, BFFs, or even yourself if you really wanted to. For simplicity, we’ll reference the lyrics to the English version of ‘Blue Valentine’ and the English translations for the rest of the album by the Genius Korea community.
‘Blue Valentine’
“You’ll always be my blue valentine…”
“I can see it now, can you see it now?”
“I come running every time…”
“Your heart’s getting colder, I’ll keep the fire lit in mine…”
“A spark that never dies…”
“Hot and icy, but I like it…”
“Truth is, we’ll come back together…”
“You might be my end game…”
“I’m falling over and over and over…”
‘SPINNIN’ ON IT’
“It gets harder and harder to erase…”
“Maybe you and I are loco…”
“Why do I want you more?”
“Should I keep loving you or not?” (we picture this as one of those “yes or no” checkboxes people used to give to their crush to see if they liked them back!)
“You are all I need…”
“I’m craving for this obvious story even more…”
“We’ll still be each other’s, whatever…”
“I’m trapped with you…”
“Just gotta ride with me…”
“So truly, we’re endless…”
‘Phoenix’
“Never fear the fall…”
“A bright blue spark…”
“Spread your wings to the sky…”
“Embrace the aurora…”
“I’m never, ever gonna stop it…”
‘Reality Hurts’
“We’re just on another plane…”
“Keep on chasing me…”
“Catch up to me…”
“I’m with my girlies…”
“We’re always gonna bounce back…”
‘RICO’
“Yeah, we loco…”
“Young and wild…”
“We’re so buena…”
“Come and come get some vibe…”
“Me encanta, ay, qué rico…”
‘Game Face’
“From now on, it’s a new phase…”
“Tune into my heart…”
“Leaving everything bad behind…”
“Take a breath, break through what matters…”
“My heart’s heating up nonstop…”
‘PODIUM’
“Even from afar, your gaze is already burning me…”
“I’ve been watching you for a while…”
“I’ve left behind that timid attitude…”
“Be legendary…”
“We rise higher, fly above the flames…”
‘Crush On You’
“My mind goes blank thinking of you…”
“I wanna know how you feel when the silence lingers between us…”
“Do you wanna hold my hand?”
“Thinking of you, my heart starts to pound again like a drum…”
“My feelings keep growing…”
“I got a crush on you…”
“You’re my favorite view…”
“Everything else turns blurry, there’s only you…”
“You make me feel so good…”
“Everyone’s already noticed I’m heading to you…”
“The moment our eyes met, my heart flew to the moon…”
“Anything’s fine if it’s with you…”
“I just wanna be with you…”
“I’m swimming in your ocean blue…”
“Your eyes hold the whole sunset…”
‘ADORE U’
“The chemicals got all tangled up…”
“If I could show my heart, you’d see how much I adore you…”
“I think I’m out of control…”
“I want to give you all of my clumsy love…”
‘Shape Of Love’
“Tell me how to love you well…”
“You will paint me blue, even so, it’s you…”
“I love you in any form…”
“In the end, we’re always together…”
“Crashing into each other, fitting the frame…”
“We’ll forever be clumsy like that…”
“Spent my whole life chasing true love…”
“We wanna be young and wild and free forever…”
“Even if it takes a little while, we will finally see…”
‘O.O Part 1 (Baila)’
“Driving you crazy, huh?”
“Tension goes higher…”
“Watch it, how nice, how nice…”
“Passing that boundary…”
“Quickly, follow me…”
“Don’t be afraid…”
“A vivid dream…”
‘O.O Part 2 (Superhero)’
“Let me rock you out…”
“Fly as my heart desires…”
“Never let you down, be with me…”
“Let me be your superhero…”
“Hold onto me tight…”
“Nothing to be afraid of, never give up…”
“Baby, trust in me and you…”
“Everything is fake, but I ain’t a fake…”
“The real start is from now…”
“I got your back…”
“Finally, we’ll win…”
“Baby, you’re my superhero…”
“Gonna rock the world…”
Will you be using any of these lyrics on a note to your ‘Blue Valentine?’ Which song on NMIXX’s Blue Valentine album do you love most? Let us know in the comments below or hit us up on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! You can also buzz on over to our Reddit community to chat with us.
If you think you’ve never heard Ink, we guarantee you that you’re wrong! This GRAMMY-nominated songwriter has already made it onto your playlists with songs like Beyoncé’s ‘16 CARRIAGES,’ Kendrick Lamar & SZA’s ‘luther,’ and Lay Bankz’s ‘Tell Ur Girlfriend.’ But now, she’s proudly stepping onto the stage with her own narratives and voice on her debut EP, BIG BUSKIN’, which proves that Ink is a vital storyteller defining this generation in music. We need music that connects and transforms us more than ever, and she has the perfect pen for the job.
Across 13 songs, Ink throws a moving ‘Hoedown’ that walks us through her love story with music, her views on persistence and tough times, and the passion that’s carried her through life. “They can steal your style, but they can’t steal your story,” she muses on the spoken opener, ‘Inktro,’ over a western-inspired soundscape. At the heart of each song lies Ink’s authenticity and pure, all-encompassing love for the music she makes, especially on emotive tracks like the incredible ‘God’s Been Drinkin’.’ Even the EP title is an ode to her love for her craft – some of her earliest musical pursuits involved busking and learning how to make her storytelling as moving as possible, and the ‘Tony Machine on 42nd’ interlude tells the story of one of those performances.
The hell with all that BS — press play and find out — real music is back!
Ink
We’re ‘Comin’ Back’ from our listening experience with some extra sweet news: we got to ask Ink all about BIG BUSKIN’, writing her truth, and her biggest inspirations! Press play on BIG BUSKIN’ then keep reading to learn more about the project from the musical genius who created it.
Hey Ink, congratulations on the EP release! What has it been like for you to drop it and see how much fans are loving it? It’s been incredible to drop the EP! Finally being able to say it’s out now is surreal.
There are so many thoughtful lyrics on your standout single ‘Sweet Tea,’ with one of our favorites being “we can’t take it back, so really we gotta live again.” Which line from the song are you most proud of? “Yeah, my granny never even cuss ‘til she got Alzheimer’s / Uh, real GOAT, greatest of all timers.”
The ‘Sweet Tea’ music video includes so many sweet home movie clips and throwback moments. What was it like for you to revisit so many memories for the song and video? It was the best part about it. It just took me back down memory lane. It felt so good to be back home and just have the spirit of my family and those that aren’t here anymore still be there to celebrate.
We’re so excited about your debut BIG BUSKIN’ EP! Which song were you most hyped for fans to hear and why? Which tracks are the most meaningful to you? They’re all meaningful to me, but I’m most hyped for fans to hear ‘Sweet Tea’ because they get to hear a little about the fam, and ‘All I Got’ since it really summarizes the EP. Plus all the inkerludes!
Inspired by ‘Turquoise Cowboy,’ which color do you think best matches the energy of BIG BUSKIN’? Turquoise with a little wood grain.
The BIG BUSKIN’ title nods to your own experiences busking around Atlanta, which you’ve described as “resilience in motion.” What’s something you learned during that phase of your musical journey that you’ve taken with you as you’ve grown? The world is a beautiful place, you’ve just gotta choose to see it.
In your recent INKtionary post on Instagram, you listed one of the definitions of BIG BUSKIN’ as “to live loud, global, and unapologetic – outlaw energy with superstar reach.” How do you stay true to yourself and your roots as your star rises? I just carry on the memory of the places I’ve been and the people I’ve met as I go. I take my boots off, get my feet in the grass, and connect to nature.
Alongside your own work, you have writing credits on iconic songs like Kendrick Lamar & SZA’s ‘luther,’ Beyoncé’s ‘TEXAS HOLD ‘EM,’ and Lil Nas X’s ‘STAR WALKIN’!’ How do you approach writing for another artist differently than writing for your own releases, and how do your experiences on those songs inform how you approach your music? Each artist has their own story, so I just see it as me being there to help serve them creatively. It helps me learn new things for my process, as each artist has a different process and story. They each teach me something different.
You told Billboard that you wrote the lyrics to The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill on flash cards one day after school – as a publication run by fans, we love the passion! Is there a certain song on the album that has most influenced you and your music? I think the whole album – it gives you the sense of creating a body of work. Some artists can make a few great songs, but she really made a great body of work.
From Beyoncé to Shaboozey and Post Malone, country is definitely ‘Comin’ Back’ to the mainstream spotlight lately! What do you feel makes country so moving, especially in a time when we need the magic of music more than ever? The storytelling!
You’ve called yourself “a faucet of creative energy that never runs out” to The Tennessean. When do you feel most inspired, and what inspires you most? Life and the people and places in it make me feel most inspired. I can just open my eyes and there’s a song waiting.
What can your fans look forward to in the rest of 2025/2026? Performing, pulling up, doing shows, and lots of great music. Next year I’ll also be dropping my debut album!
Is there anything else you’d like to mention or say to your fans that the questions didn’t touch on? Pull up when you see the spill!
It sounds like BIG BUSKIN’ is just the very beginning, and we can’t wait to see what Ink will spill next! Thank you so much to Ink for answering our questions and pouring so much heart into every song you touch.
Now, honeybees, we have some questions for you! What are your favorite tracks on the BIG BUSKIN’ EP? Who do you hope to hear Ink write with in the future? Let us know in the comments below or hit us up on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! You can also buzz on over to our Reddit community to chat with us.
Right before kicking off their European shows, Nxdia made a stop in London. Not only was London sold out, every single show on the tour has been, which is an incredible feat for any artist, especially as a first-ever headline tour!
I Promise I’m Watching is a direct nod to their debut EP, I Promise No One’s Watching. The tour manages to create such an open, comfortable, and safe space. Curating a tour – and music, around coming out and the life experience of being queer, non-binary, and androgynous naturally draws in other people who are experiencing the same things and feeling the same feelings.
Image Source: Toyah Ann for The Honey POP
The setlist was everything from emotional hard-hitters like ‘Ambulance,’ and ‘Tin Man,’ to their biggest hits ‘She Likes A Boy,’ and ‘Feel Anything.’ Nxdia performed a cover of Katy Perry’s ‘I Kissed A Girl’ and all we have to say about that is bring back those pop-goes-punk albums. That was incredible – and such a fitting song, it sat perfectly in the setlist, and is obviously an LGBTQ+ anthem!
Every once in a while, a show will just hit the spot and make you feel like you’re floating. The Garage is such an iconic London venue and Nxdia themselves said they were nervous when it was being suggested to them. This show really was something else, and there aren’t enough words in any dictionary to explain the absolute euphoria that was felt.
Image Source: Toyah Ann for The Honey POP
The perfect pop-punk vibes, emotions were flowing left, right, and center, and the feeling of community was so intense it may or may not have reduced us to tears. They honour their heritage by writing lyrics in Egyptian, merging them seamlessly with the rest. Not only is it a beautifully unique characteristic to have in music, but it even encourages people to learn a new language – or at least some phrases in a new language, only creating a more open and diverse fanbase!
Being so loud and proud about your background, your journey, and your life is not something every artist can achieve. Nxdia has consistently grown over the years, from beautiful lyricism to this headline tour. The in-betweens consisted of performing at Bludfest, going viral many… many times, and perfectly curating such a memorable, admirable group of fans.
We could go on and on about Nxdia, how proud we are to have seen them grow. But we are aware that we came with unseen photos for everyone to admire so… we’ll leave it here, for now! You will be hearing from us again very soon…
It’s true! As if Spacey Jane’s ‘Estimated Delivery’ wasn’t magical enough, Mallrat has just taken it to the next level with the ‘Estimated Delivery (Magic Megamix).’ For those of you who may not be familiar with one or both of the artists in this unstoppable duo, allow us to introduce you. By the end of this article, you will no doubt understand why the post announcing this collab had us freaking out.
Spacey Jane
‘Estimated Delivery,’ in its original form, lives on Spacey Jane’s third studio album, If That Makes Sense. Our dedicated Honey Pop readers may remember that this album was an instant hit for us. A new take on the classic rock sound, this album reminded us why we love the genre. Throughout the 13-track run, they explore topics like religion, childhood, holding on, and letting go. Against a vulnerable stream-of-consciousness writing style, they’ve set unforgettable melodies that hook us every time, striking guitar riffs, and driving beats.
Despite the wide range of topics that Spacey Jane discusses in If That Makes Sense, it is incredibly cohesive. They go through life; they figure things out. Their thoughts are jumbled, they think they’re healed one day and break down in tears the next. They don’t know if any of their thoughts make sense, but they’re doing their best to work through them. The album comes to a satisfying conclusion with bassist Peppa Lane’s response to singer Caleb Harper’s musings: “I hung on, if that makes sense.”
The theme of accepting the inevitable is prevalent throughout the album, but especially in the closer, ‘August.’ In this song, they accept the bittersweet end to something they may have struggled to let go of. Of course, at the end of the song, they’re still making sense of their own thoughts. But whatever comes next, life goes on. It is what it is, and they accept and begin to move on.
Near the end of this track list is our culprit, ‘Estimated Delivery.’ A beautiful song about a long-distance relationship, Caleb sings about longing for something that’s just out of his reach. And Mallrat adds a whole new layer to the narrative. With her verse, she introduces a new perspective on waiting for something that’s never going to happen. It makes the song more wistful because again, this relationship might be something that’s hurting both parties more by holding onto it.
Mallrat
Now that you know all about Spacey Jane, allow us to introduce you to Mallrat as well. She’s fresh off her album, Light hit my face like a straight right, where she experiments with new sounds and just keeps getting it right. Whatever you’re into, Mallrat has it all. If you want to relax with a softer acoustic sound, check out songs like ‘Rockstar’ or ‘Groceries.’ If you’re more into the thrill of hyper pop, you’ll like ‘Love Songs/Heart Strings’ or ‘Hideaway.’ And if you want the best of both worlds, you should check out the whole album. In fact, we’ll point you to a few of our favorites: perhaps try ‘Pavement’ or ‘The Worst Thing I Would Ever Do.’ Similar to Spacey Jane, she layers reflective, vulnerable lyrics over beats that we’d want to hear in the club.
In Light hit my face like a straight right, Mallrat similarly feels like she’s posing questions to herself, trying to make sense of her own mind. She moves through topics like identity and the endlessly confusing nature of human relationships in all forms. As a whole, this album is something we haven’t heard before. Mallrat reaches for something through her songs, seemingly searching for answers. And one thing we can confirm for her is that she has a permanent spot on our playlist.
One more time, we’ll beg you to check out a few songs from each of these artists. And of course, listen to ‘Estimated Delivery feat. Mallrat (magic megamix)’ to experience this powerful combination. A combination that, dare we say, was made just for us. And you should be in on it too! Listen now and come to us with all your thoughts. We’re ready to discuss all your favorite releases, especially Spacey Jane and Mallrat, at @thehoneypop on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
Fall is the perfect time of year to sit back, relax, and dive deep into some new artists. Top of our list right now is BENEE, a New Zealand-born hyper-pop singer. Maybe you know BENEE from her time opening for Tate McRae, or from her viral track ‘Supalonely,’ and yes, we’re still listening to that song in 2025. Though we’ve had our eye on BENEE since 2019, she’s only now breaking through the scene and making us listen on full volume.
Since sad girl fall is officially here, we’re tuning into these five BENEE tracks and need all our honeybee friends to get on board!
Image Source: Jorge Rico
‘Underwater’
BENEE’s latest release is just one of those songs you have on repeat without even realizing it – it’s just that good! For all our lover girl yearners, ‘Underwater’ is for you. This song is for all the fans out there who feel misunderstood, like they are drowning in their own tears, and no one is listening. BENEE is here to listen and make you feel understood in oftentimes complicated emotions. That’s why we love music so much, after all.
“My head is underwater, a puddle full of my tears I could make a river, wouldn’t even matter Why don’t you see me? Bottom of the pool, yeah Why can’t you see me?”
‘KOOL’
Why do we love BENEE so much? Because she’s just so ‘KOOL!’ No, but really, BENEE is that girl. She’s got an incredible sense of style, and of course, the knack for great storytelling through song. ‘Kool’ is about that girl next door, who you are probably super envious of – she’s got perfect hair, her skin seems to glow, and always seems to say the perfect thing. For all those moments when you want to be as cool, but you end up just embarrassing yourself. BENEE understands us better than anyone else!
“F**k, I wish I could be cool like you (cool like you) I say stupid stuff (yeah, yeah) And embarrass myself (’cause I’m dumb) I’m not very cool (yeah) It sucks, I suck, I want to be like you”
‘Sad Boii’
We’re bringing back the BENEE classic that is ‘Sad Boii.’ It’s sad girl autumn after all, so it’s only fitting we sing this song’s praises. Ever been in a relationship where you couldn’t “get the ick away?” Yeah, BENEE has been there too. He always raises his voice, and he’s utterly boring. He’s just a sad boy at the end of the day, and guess what? Only sad girls are allowed here! Grab all your friends, blast ‘Sad Boii’ and attract all that feel-good feminine energy!
“Sorry, what’s this all for? Don’t make me feel good no more No, wait, now it’s too late I can’t get the ick away Breakup, no, not again I’m so sick of everything So, what, what is this for? God, it’s a bore”
‘Soaked’
‘Soaked’ has very quickly made its rotations back onto our playlists. We forgot how good this song was, and now we can’t get enough. It has all the best chilly air vibes for the fall season. Let this song play in the background while you cozy up wth a good contemporary romance novel over a mug of hot chocolate. Or, maybe you’re pumpkin carving during girls’ night! Either way, BENEE’s discography is the soundtrack to your fall night.
“These things I’m tryna say get drenched and swept away that’s the truth Soaked up in my brain Don’t know what to say”
‘Cinnamon’
It isn’t the fall season without a sprinkle of ‘Cinnamon.’ This is another new release of BENEE’s, and we loved it upon our first listen! Her new sound is definitely more mature and elevated, two things we are looking forward to hearing more of soon. While you’re sipping on that hot chocolate, make sure you add a dash of ‘Cinnamon’ for that true fall flavor.
“I might not laugh again, I’ll cross my fingers ’til the end And I’ll stay sweet like cinnamon, I’ll stay asleep until 3 p.m.”
Have you listened to BENEE’s new song ‘Underwater?’ Let us know in the comments down below or on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook – we’re all the buzz!
If you’re looking for a new supergroup to dive into, look no further than one of our most recent musical obsessions, CVCHE! If you’re just now tuning in, you’ve done it at the perfect time! CVCHE’s debut album, Get Fluffy is due later this year, and we’ve just gotten their newest offering from the record, ‘The Star.’ We were lucky to chat with CVHCE about their upcoming record, ‘The Star,’ and so much more!
Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with us! To start us off, if someone is tuning in for the first time, how would you describe the kind of music CVCHE makes? No, thank YOU! We’d definitely describe ourselves as the pioneers of Rural Canadian Techno, since that genre did not previously exist – nor may it EVER exist – unless people want it to. You could also say “organic electronic jams that make you want to dance in your socks on a hardwood floor.”
Get Fluffy is due later this year! What has the process of crafting your first album together as a group been like? We set up four or five synths at one station for each of us. I would make a beat, then we’d all start dialing in sounds on our stations. Once we all had a good palette of sounds, someone would come up with a bass line or tonal starting point. Then we’d hit record and start laying in parts simultaneously, like a live jam, for about 20 minutes. We then edited the best parts into the final track. Some ended up tracking the record rather quickly, and on others, we spent a bit more time on arrangements.
How far into the creative process of ‘Get Fluffy’ did ‘The Star’ come to be? Were you still actively crafting the album? It all happened very quickly from inception to completion because of the process I outlined above. It’s a great way to work, and we just know each other so well that there was very little mucking around and/or throwing things out. We actually have a bunch more tracks we really like that aren’t coming out on the record. The chord progressions are more vocal-friendly, so we saved them to experiment with that at some point. We basically got into a great flow state and just made a whole bunch of stuff with no ‘demographic’ or all the other things you’re supposed to think about – where it fits, who will like it, etc. We just made music, and all this stuff is what came out, with no fidgeting around with expectations. It was fun. And still is!
When you’re in the midst of a jam session, and a song like ‘The Star’ starts to form, do you guys automatically realize you have something you want to dig into further and possibly release? We actually aren’t jamming in the typical sense. It’s more about coming up with a beat we all like, then a bassline, or riff, or chord progression. If we like where the early stages are going, we start dialing in sounds we like on all of our respective synth stations and all sorts of approve of them or not as we’re working them up. Once we have a big palette of sounds and the framework of the track, THEN we “jam” in a structured way for 20 – 30 minutes as every synth patched into ProTools is in record. We then edit it down with the sections we feel are gelling the most.
With CVCHE, when did the idea first spark to form this group? Were you all approached at once? Liam and Jimmy started jamming a bit after tracking a Metric record, and then I came in. We drank wine, pulled out more synths, and then decided to make a record after we’d already finished making it.
Each of you comes from different groups that we are sure have their own creative processes. How do you bring each of those into this new group, and what works best for what you want to be creating? I think all of our experience combined really helps in making navigating the technological aspect of things secondary to creativity, which can be a challenge for everyone. We know how to dial sounds up quickly, and we know how to get around our synth collections, arranging, mixing, etc., so it’s more about us playing off of each other rather than getting caught up in midi troubleshooting (which we’ve collectively probably spent 8 million hours doing). We all use Pro Tools, and it helps that Liam is a legit Pro Tools wizard.
And speaking of what you want to be creating, it’s been said that you guys want to “make releasing music as fun as creating it.” What aspect of creating music do you think is lost in the stress of releasing said music? Oh, wow, I could talk shit about algorithms all day! Making records is fun, spiritual, bonding, magical, and all the other feels, and then comes… algorithms, metadata, streaming companies, troubleshooting passwords, traffic light captchas. So romantic, isn’t it? So, we just said “fuck all this.” Yes, it has to be done, but what else can we do to keep it fun? That’s when we brought Jon Morris in as a member of CVCHE. He did Nine Inch Nails’ stage design, as well as designed for Lady Gaga and Metric, and has done loads of huge installations at Burning Man. Jon is the official-unofficial king of fun. He helped make an infinite scroller video game (it’s fun… check out www.heycvche.com), and we’re building out a super fun merch store. We’re planning a crazy, awesome live show as well. We tell more jokes on calls than we talk about business. We have no strategy to ‘beat the algorithms.’ We just have fun and, in between, fill out endless forms and upload to streamers and publishing info. Gotta keep it fun.
You recently released your single ‘Thumper.’ What inspired that song, and how did it come together? A super weird thumping sound that randomly started coming out of the MS-20… a ghost in the machine, as Sting would say. We made a track around the sound and then ended up muting it in the end — the track, as you hear it, remained.
While crafting this upcoming album, Get Fluffy, was there a song that felt like lightning in a bottle? That once it started, you guys knew it was going to be one of the ones that made the record? No, because we like all of them. We have more that aren’t on the record – more so because the chord progressions lend themselves to vocals – so we’re sitting on those for the right time.
We have to talk about the video game! Where did the inspiration come from to include this in the process of putting out music? Jon Morris brought that to the table, and his friend/coder, Sonny, dialed it all up. At the time of creating the game, with a new song release per level of the game… We are as certain as we can be that we were the first to do this in this way.
Once again, thank you guys so much for your time! Before we let you go, what can fans look forward to as we close out 2025? More sock jams that make you wanna dance in your socks on a hardwood floor, live shows from us at some point, and hopefully vacations in the Caribbean when it starts to get cold — for both us and fans alike. Who wants to make a plan!? We’re SO IN. ⚡️
We would love to hear from you! What do you think of our interview with CVCHE? Let us know by commenting below or by tweeting @TheHoneyPOP! We are also on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok!
2025 is the year for nostalgia. All our favorite artists, who we grew up with, are taking this year by storm and pulling out our nostalgic heartstrings one new single at a time. The Jonas Brothers released a new album and are on tour, Jesse McCartney is making new music, Cody Simpson is planning a big comeback, Hilary Duff has confirmed a new era is on the way, and now, Demi Lovato is dropping hits like it’s her full-time job (well, it is, thankfully).
Demi Lovato is breaking back into music and making everyone well aware. She’s probably had the best single releases of the year, and luckily for us, she’s only getting started. We never left the Demi train, but now we’re fully conducting this thing!
Image Source: Courtesy of Island Records
‘Here All Night’
Nothing can make us fold as quickly as an intoxicating dance beat, some stellar choreography, and some Demi powerhouse vocals. Demi’s latest single, ‘Here All Night,’ has those three things locked in. This song takes us on a whirlwind of a story – someone has just gotten broken up with and they’re trying not to think about this person all night long. Hitting up the clubs, flirting with the DJ, and dancing until the early morning hours is all but a simple fix for heartbreak. We’ve certainly all been there!
‘Here All Night’ was released alongside a truly amazing music video – something Demi is known for always delivering on! We have to applaud Demi on devouring this choreography and looking absolutely stunning while doing it. Did we ever doubt her? No.
‘Fast’
One single is simply not enough. We’ve also been loving Demi’s ‘Fast,’ which proves to be somewhat of a sister song to ‘Here All Night.’ Listening to these two pop songs back to back was an ethereal experience that we encourage all our honeybees to take part in. We want to hear ‘Fast’ at 2 AM in the club, and then ‘Here All Night’ immediately afterwards, walking back to our Ubers! That’s definitely the vibes we’re on for the rest of 2025.
While the visuals for ‘Here All Night’ take place inside Demi’s apartment, the visuals for ‘Fast’ happen on the streets below. It’s all chaos with Demi, the calm of the storm, in the middle, strutting down the street looking like the true star that she is.
It’s Not That Deep
Of course, releasing two singles is a slight hint at something bigger coming soon. Demi Lovato’s ninth studio album, It’s Not That Deep, drops on October 24, 2025. Fans were so surprised at this announcement and immediately took to the internet to gush over the album artwork and their praise for their long-time favorite singer.
“This music is a perfect reflection of where I’m at today. I had such an incredible time making this album with Zhone and it was such a freeing experience to let loose and have fun with it. With my past eras, I often wrote cathartic music about heavy topics that I needed to process. When I got back in the studio this time around, those songs just weren’t resonating anymore because I’m not in that place in life. I’m happy, I’m in love, and I just want to enjoy life and have fun. I realized it’s not that deep anymore, and that became the ethos for this album. It’s Not That Deep is meant for late nights and dancefloors, and I can’t wait for you all to dance with me.”
Demi stated in a press release
You can pre-save It’s Not That Deephere and get excited about Demi’s new music with us down in the comments or over on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Let us know which single track, ‘Fast’ or ‘Here All Night,’ was your favorite! Can we claim both!?
50 Cent had the best reaction to being name-dropped in Taylor Swift’s new album!
For those who haven’t listened yet, the pop star shouts out the rapper on the track Ruin the Friendship from The Life of a Showgirl while looking back on a memory from high school. She sings:
“Have fun, it’s prom / Wilted corsage dangles from my wrist / Over his shoulder I catch a glimpse / And see you looking at me / And it was not an invitation / But as the 50 Cent song played / Should’ve kissed you anyway.”
And get this — he is the only celebrity name drop on the project! Wow! What an honor! 50 Cent caught wind of the shoutout on the album, and he is so stoked! The In Da Club artist took to Instagram on Friday to post a pic of Tay’s cover art along with the caption:
“@taylorswift s**t is popping right now. She shout me out. She don’t shout you out. LOL. THIS IS FOR BIG TIMERS ONLY! @50centaction wait I’m the only shout out on the whole album.”
Aww! 50 is so excited! See the post (below):
We love this! And we weren’t the only ones! Taylor’s fiancé, Travis Kelce, did, too! The athlete liked the post. See (below):
(c) 50 Cent/Instagram
What are your reactions to the shout out? Let us know!
If you’re looking for which artist is going to be the talk of the town before too long, look no further than Benjamin Steer! Benjamin Steer has just released his EP Figuring It Out, which showed us, clear as day, that we were looking at an artist who is going to have a long and prosperous career! We were lucky enough to chat with Benjamin all about the EP and so much more!
Hello Benjamin! Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with us! To start us off, how would you describe your music to someone who is tuning in for the first time? It’s a pleasure, thank you! I would say my music is sort of a soundtrack to confusion in your 20s, a soundtrack to love, to heartbreak, and to figuring things out. I’d like to think it’s pretty cinematic but has some energy in it too!
Figuring It Out is your debut EP! What feelings accumulate as you get ready to put your first collection of songs out? It is weird. I always feel a bit of anxiety before release days, but then as soon as the project is out, the anxiety disappears. I don’t hold emotional attachment to the songs once they are out. It then becomes a case of how many people can get their ears on it. But certainly, I am really proud of these songs. I feel like it sort of marks the end of my first chapter in the music world. I feel like each song serves a different purpose; the whole thing feels pretty dynamic.
You described this record as “a hopeless romantic’s dream and downfall.” What is one lyric throughout the project that best represents the dream aspect, and on the other hand, what lyric would you say best represents the downfall? I think the dreamer line is definitely the chorus of ‘No One Wants To Die Alone,’ “Live Big Love Fast and not Die Alone.” It is sort of the payoff line in a song that lyrically is frustrated in many senses, and encapsulates the sort of desire of the EP. There are many downfall lines in the EP, so I’ll give you three: ‘Oh Darling,’ “Many nights I try to find you in other eyes… Am I blind to all that makes you you?” ’5%,’ “It’s the 5% that is in the spotlight and the 95 that hides behind my eyes – So I’ll keep it out of mind and out of sight.” ‘Sweat Off Our History,’ “I’ll thread the needle between who I am and what you want from me.” I think all of these lines sort of summarize the pressure that you have to appear complete and confident and put together… But in reality, you are still figuring things out – trying to find a purpose. And you often hide these insecurities and fears in actions and facades that are not favorable to yourself – just to appease others or numb yourself to vulnerability.
As we are writing this, the EP is officially out! What has the reaction to the record been like over the last few days? How are you feeling post-release? Honestly, I think it went as well as I had hoped. I think these things take a journey themselves when they are out. I think hopefully it has legs to continue to connect with people and make an impact. People have been so supportive and kind, and I feel very unworthy. I always say this, and it is very cliche, but I am just a dude who writes about life and love in his bedroom, so it’s surreal that it is connecting so well!
When you released ‘No One Wants To Die Alone’ last year, did you already know this track was going to be everyone’s first taste of this EP? Or was it added in as the creation of the EP went forward? No Idea. ‘NOWTDA’ always felt special. It was the first song that I wrote, and I was like, if this doesn’t become the biggest song, then I am not sure what will. It felt so right and felt so me. The EP was certainly not a manufactured Idea. It was sort of the collection of the best things I had written in the last 8 months, and it all felt rather cohesive. I think if I were to sit down with the intention of writing an ep, and with a certain goal and message, it would have almost felt like I wasn’t being authentic. That being said, ‘No One Wants To Die Alone’ was probably the first song I wrote out of the ones that made it on to the EP, so maybe in some way it did guide the sonic and messaging of the rest!
Hailing six songs, half of the record was previously released, and half of the songs were saved for release day. How do you go about deciding which songs you want to hold onto and let fans discover all at once? I think there is a feeling that you get when you have a single, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that the non-single tracks are missing something. I feel like putting out a bigger body of work allows you to release songs that may never come out as a single, but you still want people to hear them. I think ‘Sweat off our History’ is a good example; this would never be a single, but that does not mean that it isn’t good. So I am glad I had the opportunity to release it.
We want to go back a bit and talk about ‘Muted Colors,’ This track changed a lot for you! When you look back, what does your relationship with that song look like now vs two years ago when it was released? I think ‘Muted Colors’ was the unexpectedly perfect first song to put out. It served its purpose in the time that it was written for me personally, but also to show an audience the type of music and messaging I wanted to pursue. I look back positively on it now for sure. It was the first stepping stone in a long journey to cross the river, and I’m so grateful that I could have even had the chance to start or embark on that journey. I think it worked because I was just honest, it was one of the first songs I had ever written and I did not really have a reference point as to what was ok and what was not. I think I do naturally cringe a little bit looking back to it now because I think my style and tone have changed a bit, but it certainly was a fantastic first step!
Once again, thank you so much for chatting with us! Before we let you go, is there anything coming up that fans can look forward to? Any live shows? Hopefully got a lot of exciting stuff coming up! Going to hopefully do another London headline before the end of the year, and then a bit more of a fuller tour in early 2026! I’m also really excited to open for Arthur Hill on his UK tour in September!
We would love to hear from you! What is your favorite song from Benjamin Steer’s EP, Figuring It Out? Let us know by commenting below or by tweeting @TheHoneyPOP! We are also on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok!
Durry just released a surprise single called ‘Dead Media,’ formerly a hidden track exclusive to their physical album, This Movie Sucks. Now, everyone can experience both the song and its music video across digital platforms. Durry consistently delivers infectious pop-rock anthems. We appreciate how openly they explore everyday experiences in their lyrics, making each track genuinely relatable. This brother-sister duo knows how to make real music, and they keep it transparent. No games or gimmicks, what you see is what you get, and that goes for their music too.
“’Dead Media’ is a catchy pop tune about the perils of social media addiction and how we’ve replaced the artistry of pop culture with content and short form videos,” says Austin Durry on the lyrics of the song. “It talks about the duality of being addicted to social media, but also social media is a huge part of what made this band successful.”
We’re all guilty of having a social media addiction, especially in the younger generations. It’s important to talk about, especially if you have any type of influence on the internet. If you’re spending more time looking down at a screen than right ahead of you, then you probably have a problem. Durry’s music can help you out with that, and maybe remind you to get off your phone a little more.
Our Favorite Lyrics
Like a creature In the night Hypnotised by the glow Of the cell phone light
These lyrics really drive it home. It’s very common to be on your bed in the middle of the night, hunched over your phone at full brightness. We often try to find solace in it, but in the long run it doesn’t do much good. It’s just too easy to be captivated by the shiny cellphone light and social media FOMO.
Check out the making of their latest album This Movie Sucks below!
Durry is about to dive headfirst into a fall tour around the country. Secure your tickets now and experience their energy live—tickets can be purchased here. We’re thrilled for them, and we just know they’re going to have the best time performing for you all.
After the success of 5SOS5 in 2022, 5 Seconds of Summer are finally back with a brand new song called ‘NOT OK,’ and let us tell you it’s a certified bop. The song will be part of 5SOS’s new album, EVERYONE’S A STAR!, and they even got a record deal with Republic Records.
We never imagined 5SOS would make a 2025 comeback. When 5SOS said “soon,” we thought they were joking, but this time, they meant it. After three years away, 5 Seconds Of Summer are back—and we are “NOT OK” about it.
“It’s Official – The Greatest Boyband In History Are Returning!“
It all started last week, when posters around the world stated that “our favorite back is back.” Of course, 5SOS got to work; days later, we got the announcement of a new era, including its colors, bright pink and orange. On Thursday, September 13, the band announced their upcoming album, called EVERYONE’S A STAR! With a cover of Calum, Michael, Luke, and Ashton with bubbly heads. The lead single, ‘NOT OK,’ was released on September 14, followed by a live gig, an ocean of pink shirts, and a pink limo! How cool is that?
The song presents a completely new vibe for the band. Drawing influences from early 2000s Gorillaz and bands like NEED and The Prodigy, 5SOS made a song that felt authentic, bold, and challenging. Think 5SOS in 2014 but with steroids, a great hyped-up drumline, and the feeling of being pumped by energy. Of course, we have to talk about the aesthetics of the era, because they made Y2K meet Vivienne Westwood with their outfits!
After hearing the song live, we are sure that this song is about to be great on tour with the fans on the pitch jumping. The band also performed a couple of songs that will be on the album. We at The Honey Pop are already the #1 fan of ‘Boyband.’
12 Brand New Songs!
The album will be released on November 14th under Republic Records. Also, it was produced by Jason Evigan, Julian Bunneta, and John Ryan, who you may know for working with Sabrina Carpenter! It promises to feature punk, pop, and rock songs with early 2000s vibes, and we already know how the first five songs sound. If you haven’t heard them, let us tell you, we love the new sound. Here is the track list of 5SOS’s new album EVERYONE’S A STAR! :
P1Harmony aren’t content to sit back and coast on past wins. Just a year after topping charts with ‘DUH!,’ the six‑member group are back with EX, a five‑track mini album designed with the Western market in mind and delivered with a creative genre blend that’s rare in 4th‑generation K‑pop. It’s their first English‑language collection, yet it closes with a Spanish version of the title track, proving that this crew aren’t afraid to stretch their sound or their languages.
Image Source: Courtesy of FNC Entertainment
From their world tour to daytime‑TV appearances and an ever‑growing global fan base, the stakes for P1Harmony have never been higher. So does EX live up to the hype? Here’s the thing: rather than delivering a safe, uniform sound, the group lean into variety and personality. Each song feels like a conversation with a different side of the band; at times playful, at others introspective, and occasionally downright celebratory. That diversity is both the album’s hook and its charm!
‘EX:’ Synth‑Pop Sparkle With A Playful Message
The opening and title track, ‘EX,’ is a shimmering synth‑pop anthem built on catchy hooks and crisp digital textures. It’s light and breezy, almost like stumbling onto a carefree afternoon on a boardwalk. The lyrics, delivered entirely in English, celebrate independence and self‑discovery without sounding preachy. There’s even a gently feminist streak in the way the chorus suggests every woman deserves to explore and have fun without needing permission or an explanation. With Keeho and Jiung sharing centre stage, the song’s bright vocal interplay underpins a melody that lingers long after the final synth sweeps.
Listening closely, you can sense the group’s desire to expand their sonic palette. The title track’s production folds in soft digital textures and spirited rap verses, but the heart of the song lies in its chorus; an earworm that borrows from 80s synth‑pop while keeping one foot firmly planted in 2025. It’s the kind of tune you could imagine blasting in an arena or singing along to at a festival, which makes sense given that EX arrives just before their largest U.S. tour yet.
‘Dancing Queen:’ Pop‑Rock Euphoria With A Nostalgic Glow
Then P1Harmony pivot into pop‑rock territory. ‘Dancing Queen’ is the EP’s stadium‑ready moment, driven by buoyant guitars and the group’s commanding vocals. You know what? It recalls the energy of classic boy band anthems without feeling like a throwback. Keeho’s vocal tone pairs with Theo’s warm harmonies, creating a chorus that feels destined for late‑night singalongs.
What sets ‘Dancing Queen’ apart is its effortless blend of sweetness and edge. In thelyrics, the protagonist invites their lover to own the night and dance without apology. The instrumentation shimmers with layered guitars and a driving beat, and there’s a subtle nod to 70s disco in the groove, yet the song never slips into pastiche. It’s playful and earnest in equal measure; the kind of track that would fit right over the credits of a feel‑good rom‑com!
‘Stupid Brain:’ Emotional Honesty Wrapped In Downtempo Grooves
If ‘Dancing Queen’ is all about letting loose, ‘Stupid Brain’ turns inward. The track opens with lush strings and almost orchestral drama before flipping into a hip‑hop‑tinged beat. That contrast might sound chaotic on paper, but it works, creating a unique blend that showcases the group’s versatility. While the production nods to mid‑90s R&B, the song’s structure is thoroughly modern, with bubbled synths and a downtempo groove that feels tailor‑made for a rainy‑day playlist.
Lyrically, ‘Stupid Brain’ is relatable to anyone who has ever overthought a situation. The song expresses the frustration of being stuck in your own head, unable to silence intrusive thoughts even when surrounded by friends. The melody dips and sways, giving space for introspection, and Keeho’s soulful delivery underscores the vulnerability of the message. A surprise guitar solo midway through adds a classic rock flavor, bridging the song’s orchestral intro with its pop‑R&B core!
Honestly, it’s the EP’s heart, offering a glimpse into the group’s emotional range. While it might not explode like a single, it’s the kind of track listeners return to when they need to feel heard.
‘Night of My Life:’ 2010s EDM Nostalgia Meets Unbridled Joy
Just when you think the EP might settle into moody reflection, ‘Night of My Life’ bursts through with sparkling EDM‑inspired energy. The song is pure, unadulterated fun. It’s simple, self‑hyping lyrics revolve around embracing the moment, dancing under the stars and having the best night possible, echoing the carefree charm of early 2010s pop anthems. There’s a playful electronic whistle that punctuates the chorus, and the beat builds to a euphoric drop that wouldn’t feel out of place in a DJ set.
Fans of LMFAO or early Calvin Harris will appreciate how ‘Night of My Life’ channels the party‑rock spirit of that era while giving P1Harmony space to show off their vocal agility. In a clever twist, Intak takes a turn singing on the final chorus, adding texture to the track’s soaring finale. If ‘Stupid Brain’ is for introspective nights, this song is for living in the moment; a high‑energy reminder that sometimes joy should simply be embraced!
‘EX (Spanish Version):’ Bridging Cultures With A Bilingual Banger
Closing the EP is a Spanish version of the title track; an unexpected twist that underscores P1Harmony’s eagerness to reach beyond linguistic boundaries. It’s the group’s first official Spanish release, following their earlier covers and Latin‑inspired songs like ‘Sad Song,’ and it reveals a comfort with the language that feels authentic rather than forced. The playful lyrics remain, but hearing them delivered with a different cadence gives the melody a brand‑new dimension.
Culturally, the move is significant. K‑pop acts rarely produce full Spanish versions of their songs, and when they do, it’s often as a one‑off novelty. Here, P1Harmony treat the Spanish version as a natural extension of the original, not just a marketing gimmick. For bilingual P1ece, it’s a thrill to hear familiar words roll off their tongues; for monolingual listeners, it’s a testament to the universality of pop music. Either way, the track signals the group’s commitment to building community across borders, a sentiment echoed throughout their broader discography!
Beyond The Music: Creative Control And A Tour To Match
Part of what makes EX compelling is the group’s hands‑on approach. Members Keeho, Jiung, Intak and Jongseob are credited as creative producers, continuing a tradition of deep involvement that fans have come to expect. That creative input is evident in the EP’s thoughtful sequencing and willingness to experiment. From synth‑pop to pop‑rock, R&B, EDM and Latin pop, the project moves effortlessly between genres without feeling disjointed, a testament to both the group’s musicianship and the production team’s vision.
The timing of EX’s release isn’t accidental. It drops just ahead of P1Harmony’s largest U.S. arena tour, P1ustage H: Most Wanted, which is scheduled to hit major cities like Newark, Chicago and Los Angeles before heading to Latin America. Pairing an English‑heavy EP with a multilingual tour is a savvy move: it gives new listeners an accessible entry point while rewarding longtime fans with fresh material. The tracks on EX are designed to translate well to live stages; imagine the opening synths of ‘EX’ echoing through an arena, the guitar licks of ‘Dancing Queen’ sparking a singalong, or the EDM drop in ‘Night of My Life’ triggering a sea of light sticks.
Image Source: Courtesy of FNC Entertainment
Final Verdict: A Polished Yet Adventurous Detour
So, is EX worth your time? Absolutely! At just over fifteen minutes long, the EP packs more variety into its runtime than many full‑length albums. Its five tracks feel like distinct chapters in a cohesive narrative, each revealing a different facet of P1Harmony’s artistry. The members’ vocals shine, the production is tight, and the willingness to experiment, linguistically and stylistically, keeps the project feeling fresh!
For longtime stans, EX offers another layer to a discography that already spans boom‑bap hip‑hop, hyper‑pop, reggaeton and synth‑driven anthems. For newcomers, it’s an accessible introduction to a group poised for global growth. More than anything, the EP serves as a reminder that pop music can be both fun and thoughtful, polished and playful. It’s a genre‑blurring, multilingual journey that leaves you wondering: if this is just a mini album, what sonic adventures might P1Harmony embark on next?
Image Source: Courtesy of FNC Entertainment
Which song is your favorite on the EP? Let us know in the comments below, or tell us over on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Young Thug popped out with a quWHite shocking transformation on the cover for his album, UY SCUTI, and dropping the hard “R” all over the opening track, “Ninja.” He doubled down on the race swap shenanigans with the whiteface switcheroo on pictures of fellow artists on his album like 21 Savage, Travis Scott, Future, and girlfriend Mariah the Scientist.
Source: Paras Griffin / Getty
What in the Druski is going on here? The latest Young Thug release that has everyone talking isn’t one of his many infamous leaked prison calls—it’s his new album with his portrait as a person of pallor as the cover, and we’re all confused by the “Whoopty Doo” whiteface. The opening of “Ninja” started out strong with a speech from the prosecution during Thug’s federal case, proclaiming that he’s a “dangerous” shot-caller, “King Slime.” Now, that’s how you make a comeback!
Many fans said they were vibing to the high-energy intro about the return of the “Metro Spider” spitter. Then things took an unexpected turn when Thug seemingly trolled listeners with an “N”-bomb barrage and more hard “Rs” than a Trinidad James singalong at a Klan rally. This confusing and controversial combination drew comparisons to everyone from Uncle Ruckus and Clayton Bigsby to Kanye West and Druski.
Mixed Reviews Of UY SCUTI
UY SCUTI includes a star-studded roster of features from Cardi B, T.I., Lil Baby, Mariah The Scientist, Future, YNF Lucci, and more. The songs range from familiar bangers to candid reflections on the lengthy, dramatic, and highly publicized YSL RICO case. He discusses betrayal from former friends who “turned rat,” relationship drama, and the toll the trial took on himself and his loved ones.
While some fans disagree about where the new album ranks among Young Thug’s hit-making highlights, another debate about the racial undertones is rivaling the music.
Check out the hilarious fan reactions and race-bending backlash to Young Thug’s whiteface rollout after the flip!
Young Thug Sparks Race-Bending Backlash With A Whiteface Album Cover
Before the release of UY SCUTI, Young Thug was already stirring up social media by playing in our faces about race. On Instagram, he posted the baffling blue-eyed photo of himself with the caption: “IF YOU WANNA BE THE BIGGEST….GO WHITE!!”
Ummm… WHOMST?
Young Thug Explains The Hard “R” Rant On “Ninja,” Tells White Fans Singalongs Are Off-Limits
The photo and opening lyrics also reignited the debate about non-Black consumers of rap singing along with lyrics that include “n***a.” Some rappers have even complained about witnessing it in person during concerts and festivals. Some people claimed that this reclaimed slang version of the word is different from the pre-Civil War slur used to dehumanize enslaved Africans and their descendants.
With Young Thug putting the latter hard “R” version of the word back into lyrics, some comments raised serious concerns about giving line-stepping fans and racists justification to get away with disrespect.
The “Danny Glover” star may experiment and play too much, but he still doesn’t play about that. When confronted about the racial issue by Adin Ross, Young Thug clarified that white people have no business singing this particular song word for word.
“You can’t say that. You’re supposed to say ‘ninja.’ You’re not supposed to say anything, really, as a white guy. You should leave that to the Black people,” the rapper explained.
Whether fans love it or hate it, Thugger took control of his recent meme king status on social media with this drop.
If the album and cover art didn’t have social media in shambles enough, Young Thug continued the White Chicks chicanery with pics of artists on the album like Ken Carson, Travis Scott, and Future.
Thugger also teased a Playboi Carti feature on the deluxe version.
Regardless of the reception, it looks like Thugger isn’t trying to take anything too seriously after his trial and continued tribulations. Meanwhile, the controversy continues.
What do you think of Young Thug’s “Ninja?” Check out the full version below.
