Two years ago, we were first introduced to Caroline Romano and we have been fans ever since. From opening for bands like Grayscale and The Foxies, Caroline is making sure we know she’s ready to hit the main stages!
In 2022, she released her debut album, Oddities and Prodigies, which skyrocketed her into success and landed her in the spot she is in today: having her first headline show in Los Angeles!
The Moroccan Lounge in Los Angeles is one of our favorite places to see a show. It’s a small venue which allows a show to be intimate and more special than large stadium venues. This night in particular, we all got to mingle with Caroline before she hit the stage in her stunning outfit, we might add.
Jay Flores for The Honey POP
She opened the night with ‘Tell Her I Said Hi,’ one of her singles that we first heard when we saw her on tour with Grayscale last spring. The lyrics make our hearts ache, but with an upbeat, fiery beat like this one, we can’t just stand still!
‘Body Bag,‘ ‘Doesn’t Matter,’ and Caroline’s newest single, ‘Muse,’ also made the cut on the setlist, all of which have been some of our favorite songs of hers.
In our latest interview with Caroline, she was disappointed that she had to cut some of her favorite songs from the setlist to fit into an opening slot on a tour, but the fun thing about headlining is she didn’t have to do that! ‘St. George’ and ‘Guts’ made it back to the setlist, really giving Caroline that full-circle moment.
Our favorite part of the night, even though it causes all the bittersweetness in the world, was finding out that Caroline was closing her night off with ‘Girl in a China Shop’ and ‘This House.’ Like many of her songs earlier in the set, we first heard these songs live last Spring, and hearing them again for the first time in over a year made the night all the more memorable.
And of course, the night wouldn’t have been complete without an amazing opening act: Michele Lu.
The USC alum and singer-songwriter is a veteran of playing at The Moroccan Lounge. Having opened for other artists such as Don Toliver, she was no stranger to hyping up a crowd and having songs that keep an audience captivated.
Jay Flores for The Honey POP
She performed her newest single, ‘Shotgun‘ and kept us hooked with her slowed down, angelic cover of the Cure’s ‘Friday I’m In Love.’ She told a story of the first time she ever played her cover of this song to a crowd of 20,000 people. Safe to say, it and she were a hit! She also sang ‘Dull Red’ which she announced was the leading single of her upcoming EP, Dull Red. We will be sat and ready for its release.
Even though it was a Thursday night in LA, both Caroline and Michele blew us away with their show. Two women with amazing vocals, poetic songs, and hard-hitting lyrics deserve to share the stage more, and we hope to catch them on their headlining tours one day!
View the full gallery from the show below!
Where do you want to see Caroline Romano perform next? Let us know in the comments, on Facebook, Instagram, or by tweeting us @thehoneypop!
‘Third time’s the charm’ or whatever they say… Only this time we’re talking about seeing Grayscale for the third time this year. We saw them in Arizona at 8123 Fest, then again while on tour earlier this Spring. Now they’re back in Anaheim, and we were not prepared for the show they were about to perform.
Jay Flores for The Honey POPJay Flores for The Honey POP
When it comes to seeing Grayscale on tour, it’s truly never certain what songs they’re going to sing. It could be a setlist comprised of all their hit singles that make us fall in love with their music over and over again, or it can be the hard-hitting, very-rarely-performed-live songs that remind us how lucky we are to exist at the same time as them. On this very tour, we were beyond lucky to get both. You heard that right.
The Philadelphian, alt-rock band opened with one of our favorite songs, ‘Kept Me Alive,’ and kept the vibes up and strong following with ‘Through the Landslide’. Both of these songs fresh off the press with the release of their 5th studio album, The Hart. When you have a band like Grayscale who has been in the scene for a long while, they know what the fans want to hear and how to make every show feel special and unique.
This particular night, they surprised us with not one, but two of their more hard-hitting tracks from their newest album: Talking In My Sleep and Mum ii. Back to back, mind you. (As if the Anaheim heat wasn’t enough to melt our makeup off, these two songs were.)
Jay Flores for The Honey POP.Jay Flores for The Honey POP
But it’s okay, because just as we were wiping our tears and mascara-stained faces clean, Grayscale picked the vibes back up with ‘Dance With Your Ghost.’ Collin Walsh asked us if we had come out to dance on this Saturday night, and we said yes.
If you didn’t think Grayscale could get any better, their second to last song on the setlist was none other than their cover of Van Halen’s ‘Panama.’ We’d heard this one before when we saw them on tour with Boys Like Girls, but there’s nothing like hearing it live again. (We don’t know how the logistics of this work, but can you guys pretty please put this on streaming somehow? Thanks. Sincerely, us.)
And of course, not to be forgotten, and not to be ignored, the band closed the night out with ‘Not Afraid to Die,’ the leading single to their recent album.
At this point, seeing Grayscale live feels less like just going to a concert and more like showing up for a full-on emotional rollercoaster in the best way possible. Whether it’s your first show or your thirtieth (hi, it’s us), they always find a way to make it feel brand new. From surprise deep cuts to crowd-favorite bangers, they really gave us everything in Anaheim.
Check out the full gallery below!
If you didn’t get a chance to see them yet, or in the US, Grayscale will be out on tour in the UK & Europe this fall on their “Live In Colour” tour! You can check out dates and purchase tickets here.
Did you catch them on this tour? Let us know in the comments, on Facebook, Instagram, or by tweeting us @thehoneypop!
At THP, we take pride in telling you about the latest music that you should be listening to. And if you haven’t heard it already, you need to listen to ‘kiss’ by garbagebarbie immediately. We’re so excited because we got the chance to talk with the LA DIY band all about it! In this sweet […]
If there’s one thing about us here at The Honey Pop, it’s that we LOVE our artists with accents. One Direction, 5SOS, The Academic, Yungblud, the list goes on and on! The list, however, would NOT be complete without New Rules. If you’re new to the group, or if you’re a long-time fan, we are here to give you the top four New Rules songs that you NEED to add to your playlist. Buckle up, rule number one for New Rules is you must be prepared for every emotion imaginable.
‘Really Wanna Dance With You’
This song is giving hopeless romance in the cheesiest way possible. It’s about seeing someone across the room and debating how to approach them, but overthinking it. Let’s be honest – we’ve all been there. In the verses and the music video, however, it works out! Add this song to give you the luck and confidence you may need the next time you “really wanna” dance with someone.
“And my shoes stuck to the floor
And the bell rang for last call.”
‘Drunk Texts’
We are going to drop the mood a bit for this one, so be ready to stare out of the window and pretend you are in a movie. Between the soft guitar and the harmonies, this song hits us directly in the chest, and when the lyrics are added, that feeling increases tenfold. It perfectly encapsulates the feeling of losing someone and having no idea where you went wrong, but only knowing that you miss the person deeply. If you are a fan of Ed Sheeran, Lewis Capaldi, and crying, this song is the perfect addition to your playlist. (We are giving you the acoustic version to hit even harder <3)
“I die a hundred times
Anytime I see your face”
‘Go The Distance’
Long-distance has to be one of the most difficult hurdles some people have to jump in a relationship. This song addresses that topic, but manages to maintain a hopeful tone with upbeat instrumentals that encourage listeners to dance. If you have a soft spot for ‘Beside You’ by 5 Seconds of Summer, this song follows a very similar theme! We highly recommend ‘Go The Distance’ to go on your road trip playlist! This is for sure one of the most bittersweet New Rules songs to exist.
“Wherever you are, I won’t let you go
We’ll go the distance”
‘ONE LESS WORRY’
Break-ups are never easy. ‘ONE LESS WORRY’ takes this and tries to find the positive in the negative. It talks about losing someone, but also losing the need to always worry about them. It goes back and forth between the pros and cons of no longer having to worry about that person. This highlights how recovering from a breakup is far from linear. It’s a beautiful piece that would be a good addition to any playlist (especially if it’s a playlist containing some stellar vocals!)
“And sometimes I don’t miss you
But I really have to try”
These four New Rules songs can fit into almost any playlist. They can even make a playlist of their own, as when played in order, they tell a story from falling in love to breaking up. Let us know what your other favorite New Rules songs are @TheHoneyPop!
Need more playlist recommendations? Check out more here!
Three years after their last forest excursion, Denton’s mythical troubadours are ready to cast another spell. The mystical folk conjurers of Midlake have emerged from their creative hibernation with news that feels as inevitable as autumn leaves falling: their sixth studio album, A Bridge to Far (not a typo), arrives Nov. 7, accompanied by the haunting first single “The Ghouls.”…
Pabllo Vittar and NMIXX saw people saying we don’t have a Song Of The Summer and said, “Hold my mixer.” They just delivered one of the most iconic collabs of the year (and the first collab between a Brazilian drag artist and a K-Pop group) with the Portuguese-language ‘MEXE,’ which translates to ‘MIX’ or ‘DANCE’ colloquially. Two of the most versatile artists in the world right now on one addictive song? Yes, please!
Pabllo, Lily, Haewon, Sullyoon, Bae, Jiwoo, and Kyujin bring so much fierceness and energy to the track. You can hear the confidence dripping from their voices as they predict how much everyone will love it: “this that sh*t that make you mexe.” Pabllo commands our attention and shows off her undeniable star power while NMIXX get to flex their surreal vocal skills and bring their music to a whole new audience!
I really like the girls’ sound and Korean sounds in general. They have innovative and even experimental rhythms. I discovered K-pop in 2015 and have always been a huge fan and follow it closely, so I couldn’t be happier! It’s an accomplishment to record with artists I like and experiment with new sounds in my musical production. I made ‘Fantasía,’ a song in Spanish with Nathy Peluso, and now I’m singing funk mixed with K-pop with NMIXX. Exploring these possibilities is a very fun and valuable process.
Pabllo Vittar
We’re so excited to see Pabllo and NMIXX’s worlds colliding! It’s been a long time coming but this collab truly feels like it was fated from the start. As Pabllo shared in the quote above, she’s loved K-Pop for a decade, and her ambitious outlook on music has led to her blending genres and working with global artists in different languages. Meanwhile, NMIXX has played with baile funk sounds since their debut with ‘O.O,’ and have ventured into other languages with songs like ‘Soñar (Breaker),’ which even received a full Spanish remix.
The girls of NMIXX seem just as excited about this team-up as we are, if not even more! Here’s what most of the members had to say about creating ‘MEXE’ with Pabllo:
Lily via press release: “When I first heard the song, I realized it was the perfect combination of NMIXX’s sound and Pabllo’s. She came to Korea to participate in the recording and the music video, and it was wonderful to spend time with her during that time.”
Haewon via press release: “NMIXX has always strived to make music that freely connects with the world, so it was very special to collaborate with Pabllo Vittar, such a vibrant and free-spirited artist.”
Sullyoon in the behind-the-scenes video: “We’re filming the ‘MEXE’ video. It looks so cool so far, I feel great. Everyone looks so pretty today. The music video will come out amazing. I’m sure NSWERs will love it too!”
Bae via press release: “It was truly an honor, I could hardly believe it! Rehearsing the choreography with Pabllo and her dancers was so much fun, I learned a lot just by watching them. I think the song fits NMIXX perfectly, and the Latin dance style makes it super infectious.”
Jiwoo via press release: “When I heard we were collaborating with an international artist, I was very grateful, but also a little nervous, since it would be our first time.”
Kyujin via press release: “From the first recording session to the rehearsals and filming of the music video, she was incredibly sweet and cool, which made the whole experience a lot of fun.”
We don’t know who we’re more jealous of: Pabllo for getting to spend so much time with NMIXX, or NMIXX for getting to spend so much time with Pabllo! Luckily, we can pretend we were part of the excitement by checking out NMIXX’s behind-the-scenes videos that show us what it was like putting together the song and music video. The girls even prepared a gift of Korean hair accessories for Pabllo, Pabllo gave them each albums and fans, and the recording video shows us how they built the immersive harmonies on ‘MEXE.’
What do you think of ‘MEXE?’ Which K-Pop stars would you love to see Pabllo collab with next, perhaps on her upcoming PV7 album? 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.
On July 25th, Post Animal unveiled their anticipated album Iron. This release is significant for many reasons, primarily because it marks the first time in nearly a decade that all original band members have collaborated on an album. Joe Keery rejoined the group for this creative process, deepening both their musical progression and friendship. After Keery attended one of their New York shows about a year ago, the idea to craft new music together emerged. The band wrote and produced Iron collectively during several weeks secluded in the woods of Indiana.
“This record felt like a revitalization of our friendships and our band,” Hirshland says. “We always work collaboratively, but it’s amazing how reintroducing Joe into the mix brought back that dynamic from 2017.”
“We all felt it’d be great to do something like that again, to go somewhere and be isolated and work on music together. It was a labor of love.” Keery says.
We have eagerly anticipated this release, and we are thrilled with the album we’ve received. It’s a stunning testament to the band’s deep connection and shared passion.
Let’s dive in and discuss what we love about the tracks on Iron!
Iron album cover Photography by Sam Dole, Courtesy of Grandstand Media
‘Malcoms Cooking’
A delightful and whimsical instrumental opens the album, highlighting the band’s versatility and varied instrumentation. This track pays homage to their friend Malcom Brown, whose Indiana home hosted the band and who also served them chef-quality meals during their stay.
‘Last Goodbye’
As the lead single from the album, we were introduced to the new sound of this era. ‘Last Goodbye’ addresses the obstacles each band member confronted over the past decade; a reminder that all things inevitably end.
Now I’m racing for what to do All roads lead my right back to you I know my life’s been changing But I’ll be pacing back on the road again
‘Maybe You Have To’
The theme of loss continues as this track starts with voicemails from Toledo’s late grandmother. It deals with grief openly and serves as a heartfelt tribute for anyone who has gone through it. “The song is about coming to terms with death, with the absence of someone you love,” Toledo says. “She was a warrior.”
I know that life, it doesn’t work like that Somebody goes, you can’t bring them right back Another life, it doesn’t work like that
‘Setting Sun’
The band tried out this song during their tour with Djo, and it quickly became a fan favorite. The strong rock sound makes it easy to see why. Its energy is just right for shouting along in the mosh pit or up at the barricade. The lyrics also make it a catchy, feel-good rock song.
Hit the gas, speed it up It’s time to make up for the years spent idlin’ Donе givin’ in And tryna be somebody I nevеr knew
‘Pie In The Sky’
The second single from the album captures all the wonder and whimsy fans have come to expect from the band. Friends, their instruments, voices, and shared love for music blend to create a fun and lively track.
The sun hits me when I’m back in my home Day sleeper, sleeping alone Black magic, keep me alive Just wake me when she’s in the sky
‘What’s A Good Life’
What IS a good life? It’s a question we all think about. The final single from the album explores this idea and suggests that the key is to accept yourself, flaws and all, before time runs out.
For the first time in my life It’s fine that I’m not perfect Nobody’s fool Nobody’s cool It’s who you are
‘Main Menu’
Like something out of a video game, this second instrumental track gives a good split to the album. As the music progresses, random voicemails are played on top of each other, and it mixes into a twinkly-sounding instrumental.
‘Dorien Kregg’
By far the most unique song on the album. We are introduced to this character of ‘Dorien Kregg’ by surreal lyrics and a psychedelic tune, and it ends with an angry voicemail that Williams actually received. This is the type of music that really reflects the band’s creativity and imagination as a whole, and they always exceed our expectations.
No, I don’t recognize any of this What’s that sound coming through the abyss? Do, do things really change on a dime? I feel so sure that that life isn’t mine, oh!
‘Common Denominator’
The album starts to wind down with this track, an acoustic guitar in the forefront and soft vocals from the band. It feels like the wind running through your hair as the sun beams down on your face. The lyrics question if they are the common denominator, and how it feels to navigate that situation.
Who would you see, if I could be A fraction of the one I dream about? A million ways I could’ve been Infinitely lost in time
‘Iron’
Coming in with the piano keys and hazy-sounding vocals, Iron ends the album with its reflective lyrics about life & friendships, and the power of acceptance. It’s a healing track to end an album that tackles so many vulnerable topics.
You said, “Iron sharpens iron But a blade is still a blade” Were we real or just unbridled? Guess I thought they were the same
Photography by CJ Harvey Courtesy of Grandstand Media
Praise For Iron
Fans and critics alike have greeted this album with a wave of excitement. Iron marks a bold leap forward from their previous work, Love Gibberish (2020), with many calling it their finest release since their breakout debut, When I Think Of You In A Castle (2018). The return of Keery marks an important moment in their career, and fans have been waiting for this for a long time. Iron reveals a more personal side of the band and hints at exciting possibilities ahead.
Make sure to listen to Iron on all platforms, and catch Post Animal on tour this fall! Let us know over on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram what you like most about the album!
Even after 25 years in the game, BoA still finds new ways to surprise us. A true legend, a GOT the Beat member, and an artist who refuses to slow down, she’s back with her 11th full album, Crazier — and it’s got bite. From rebellious clapbacks to emotional dives, this release doesn’t just prove BoA’s relevance in the industry. It underlines her status as one of K-Pop’s most versatile and enduring icons. With BoA’s 11th album, we’re reminded what artistry looks like when it evolves with time.
These are the track names in the album:
‘Crazier’
‘Healing Generation’
‘It Takes Two’
‘Don’t Mind Me’
‘How Could’
‘What She Wants’
‘Up And Down’
‘Love Like This’
‘Like I Like’
‘Hit You Up’
‘Clockwise’
The World is Crazy, but BoA’s ‘Crazier’
‘Crazier’ kicks off with a warning: “You should never come for me.” And she so means it. The track is bold, energetic, and carries the kind of confidence that only comes from experience. When she sings, “It’s a crazy world, I’ve seen it all but I’m crazier,” it feels like a power move. It’s a reminder that BoA’s not just keeping up, she’s the one who’s setting the pace. The beat drives the message home, and the MV pulls no punches with sharp visuals and fierce styling. The lead single sets the tone for BoA’s 11th album, and what follows doesn’t let up.
The Many Voices of One Artist
The rest of BoA’s eleventh album keeps the momentum going in ways that feel both unexpected and entirely BoA.
‘Healing Generation’ offers a warm, reassuring message without tipping into cliché, touching on collective struggles while sounding like a soft anthem for anyone still trying. ‘It Takes Two’ slows things down into late-night territory, all smooth longing and restrained emotion. Then there’s ‘Don’t Mind Me’, which is pure sass — playful in tone but sharp in delivery, like BoA just brushed off the noise and kept walking.
‘How Could’ strips things back even further, letting her voice carry the ache of goodbye in a way that feels almost too intimate to listen to. ‘What She Wants’ brings us back to cool confidence with R&B textures and a no-nonsense attitude, while ‘Up And Down’ plays with tempo and mood, riding emotional highs and lows on an addictive, subtle groove. ‘Love Like This’ sparkles with brightness but hides a bittersweet core, the kind of track that feels uplifting until you catch what she’s really saying — one of many emotional pivots that make BoA’s 11th album such a compelling listen.
‘Like I Like’ is carefree and cheeky, giving you a flirty bounce that feels made for smiling alone in your room. ‘Hit You Up’ takes a nostalgic turn with retro-pop influences that call back to earlier BoA eras, polished with a fresh coat of shine. And finally, ‘Clockwise’ brings the curtain down slowly — mellow, reflective, and tender, like the quiet moment at the end of a show when the lights dim and you’re left feeling everything all at once. It’s a fitting close to BoA’s latest release, proving once again that she knows exactly how to leave a lasting impression.
BoA Did It Again
She doesn’t need to prove anything at this point, but BoA’s 11th album Crazier is still a reminder of why she’s in her own lane. From bold statements to soft confessions, this album balances edge with elegance. It’s not about reinventing the wheel; it’s about driving it exactly where she wants. And once again, we’re just lucky to be along for the ride.
Which track from BoA’s 11th album is your new obsession? Whether you’re blasting ‘Crazier’ with the windows down or reflecting with ‘Clockwise’ on repeat, we want to hear your thoughts. Join the chaos on X @thehoneypop, and don’t forget to catch us on Instagram and Facebook for even more iconic content. Let’s get a little crazier together.
It turns out there were a few who were not excited when Taylor Swiftannounced her new album, The Life of a Showgirl, last week! Two celebrities are apparently extremely upset over the project now!
According to Radar Online on Monday, a source claimed the 35-year-old singer ticked off pop princess Britney Spears. Uh oh. The insider alleged the Hold It Against Me artist accused Taylor of copying her “iconic” stage wardrobe without any acknowledgement. She feels there are elements of her costume from her 2001 Dream Within a Dream tour that Tay “ripped off” — such as the rhinestone bra, fringed arm bands, and bejeweled nude thong that the musician wears on the cover for The Life of a Showgirl. Take a look (below):
During the Dream Within a Dream tour, Britney performed in a showgirl-style costume designed by BobMackie and inspired by the 1981 Las Vegas production Jubilee! See (below):
Due to the similarities, the source said Britney feels “ripped off” and thinks she deserves some recognition:
“She even feels she should have a credit in the liner notes of the album.”
And Britney is not the only A-Lister that Taylor supposedly pissed off! Pamela Anderson also had an issue with the aesthetics of the upcoming album, the outlet reported. Sources claimed the actress believes the new era is very similar to the whole vibe of her 2024 movie, The Last Showgirl. Ch-ch-check out Pamela in the film (below):
(c) The Last Showgirl/Utopia
Fans even noticed the nearly identical aesthetics of Taylor’s album and Pamela’s movie, pointing out the same use of bright orange and pink hues. And that is enough for Pamela to reportedly want credit just like Britney! An insider alleged that ultimately “both Britney and Pammy feel they have not been properly acknowledged.” A friend of the pop icon added:
“Britney isn’t saying Taylor can’t be inspired by her — but when you lift something so specific, you give credit. Britney worked with Bob Mackie on that look, and it’s a piece of pop history. To see it repackaged without so much as a nod feels wrong.”
Another source close to Pamela noted she “isn’t angry” at Taylor for being inspired by her, but is upset over not getting at least a shout-out:
“Pamela put her heart into The Last Showgirl. The color palette, the vintage Vegas aesthetic, it’s all over Taylor’s new visuals. Pam isn’t angry at the inspiration, but she believes recognition is deserved. Credits in the liner notes for her and Brit would be the classy thing to do.”
But will Taylor do it? Perhaps she will feature the two women in a music video if we’re getting one for this era to acknowledge them? We’ll see…
An industry insider continued:
“Taylor is an artist who knows the power of visual storytelling. But in this business, influence and homage walk a fine line. Britney and Pamela just want that line to include recognition for their influences.”
There is no doubt that Pamela and Britney are legends in the business. And take the report with a grain of salt, of course. The pair haven’t come out and said they were pissed at Taylor. But if the claims are true, does Tay really need to give them credit? We mean, the Cruel Summer artist is paying homage to the showgirl aesthetic — just like Pamela and Britney did. The two didn’t start something totally new, you know?
But what are your thoughts, Perezcious readers? Do you feel Britney and Pamela deserve credit for the look of Taylor’s new era? Sound OFF in the comments!
When we look at the bright new class of country music, one of the stars shining the brightest is undoubtedly Elizabeth Nichols! From her breakout hit ‘I Got A New One’ to her newest track ‘Daughter,’ we are getting to watch an artist fully come into her own, discover her sound, and get better with each song.
We were lucky enough to chat with Elizabeth Nichols all about her success so far, new music, and receiving the coveted Kelly Clarkson treatment.
Hi Elizabeth! Thank you so much for chatting with us! To start us off, how would you describe your music to someone who is tuning in for the first time? I’d say probably clever and honest. Those are two elements that I see in all my favorite songs. I try to balance the two. I don’t want to be too clever that I’m not honest, or too straightforward that it kills the clever.
‘Tough Love’ is officially out! This acts as your debut multi-track project! What emotions have been going through your head as these seven tracks now live out in the world? I am so grateful. If you had told me one year ago that this is where I would be, I would have never believed you. The idea that some group of girls in another state is in the car with their friends, singing one of my songs, is the most surreal part of it all. Music is such a beautiful part of life, and I am honored to be given the opportunity to make it.
The video for ‘I Got A New One’ perfectly encapsulates each lyric of the track! Can you tell us a bit about that creative process and crafting the visuals? I grew up on Taylor Swift music videos. I love when a video really tells a story in the same way a song does, so it was important to me to really bring that visual side to life. We got to work with amazing creative directors, and it was so fulfilling to see the story turn from words on a page to a scene I got to be a part of.
What has it been like for you to see the way people have latched onto ‘I Got A New One’? Did you have any inkling that this song would be one that people took to? ‘I Got A New One’ was the first single I’d ever released, so I had no idea what to expect at all. I am so grateful that people like it and it’s connected the way that it has—that song truly changed my life.
We know that ‘Ain’t Country’ was your first jump into writing a country track. What changes about the songwriting process when you’re writing with a genre in mind? I was about 10 years old the last time I had written any kind of song, so ‘Ain’t Country’ was the first song I’ve written as an adult, and I think that country sound just kind of naturally came out of me because that’s what I grew up listening to. I also love storytelling and lyricism, and country music is a genre that really celebrates those things and makes space for that part of the craft.
Ahead of the release of Tough Love, was there a song you were most looking forward to seeing fans’ reactions to? I was most excited for fans to hear ‘Tough Love’ because it was the one song that I hadn’t teased at all before its release, so nobody had heard a single note of it. It was also the newest song out of the seven—I wrote it only a few weeks before the EP came out. There is something about how honest it is that I hoped fans would connect with.
We have to ask, ‘I Got A New One’ has officially received the Kelly Clarkson treatment! What was that like for you? I was and am extremely grateful. Kelly Clarkson is literally an American icon. She is so unbelievably talented, so the fact that she liked a song I wrote enough to cover it is a huge compliment—my family and I were so excited when it happened.
Once again, thank you so much for chatting with us! Before we let you go, what can fans look forward to as we round out the last few months of 2025? Some more music! I have a new single coming out in August. I’m also playing some shows throughout the end of this year, which I’m really excited about. I love meeting people out on the road.
We would love to hear from you! What is your favorite song off of Tough Love by Elizabeth Nichols? Let us know by commenting below or by tweeting @TheHoneyPOP! We are also on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok!
Joyful Third Track from Forthcoming Debut Full-Band Album, Canopy
NEW YORK, July 28, 2025 (Newswire.com)
– Acclaimed alt-folk-pop singer-songwriter Rachael Sage has joined forces with her stellar longtime band The Sequins to record “Live It Up,” the third single to release ahead of her highly anticipated full-length studio album, Canopy (a debut full-band release for Rachael Sage & The Sequins via MPress Records). The lively piano-pop romp “Live It Up” is exactly the song the world needs in these chaotic and altogether unpredictable times. With lyrics that playfully divert listeners from news-cycle overwhelm toward equality and understanding (“I can be the hope and possibility, you can be the one to help me turn the key/There ain’t no way to heaven ’till we get there all equal”), this joyful, dynamic track showcases Sage’s signature keyboard chops amidst a kitchen-sink arrangement including Hammond organ, call-and-response horns, and catchy slide guitar that evokes comparisons to Mika, Elton John and Sara Bareilles.
Rachael discusses the song, saying: “With ‘Live It Up’ I endeavored to write a neo-classic pop-rock tune with a positive, hopeful message, as a musical antidote for these tumultuous and divisive times. I also wanted it to have the widest dynamics on my album Canopy, and a feel-good, uplifting 70’s-reminiscent sound encompassing the themes of inclusivity, love and acceptance…with an almost over-the-top, irrepressible energy – like something Mika or Elton John might sing. My band The Sequins are all such passionate and expressive players and we had a fabulous time recording this song together as a band – along with Russ Johnson on horns, who definitely brings the party!”
Watch special studio performance video /Listen to “Live It Up”HERE Stream/download “Live It Up”HERE Catch Rachael Sage & The Sequins on their national “Joy = Resistance Tour” with Kristen Ford (dates include Nashville, Atlanta, Seattle, Portland, Los Angeles, San Francisco) HERE
Produced by Rachael Sage with Grammy® nominated engineer Mikhail Pivovarov, the track features Sage on vocals, piano, and percussion, accompanied by her longtime band The Sequins: Kelly Halloran (Goo Goo Dolls) on violin, Trina Hamlin (Susan Werner) on background vocals, and Andy Mac (Pete Muller & The Kindred Souls) on drums. Other contributors include Rob Curto (The Klezmatics) on Hammond B3 organ, Dave Eggar (Paul Simon) on cello, Doug Yowell (Suzanne Vega) on additional drums, Mikhail Pivovarov on bass and handclaps, Jack Petruzzelli (Patti Smith) and James Mastro (Patti Smith) on electric guitar.
Following on the heels of her two latest releases – 2023’s critically acclaimed The Other Side and 2024’s Another Side – Rachael Sage & The Sequins‘ forthcoming full-length album Canopy continues her ongoing journey of storytelling, reinvention, and emotional connection. Sage offers listeners yet another beautifully crafted, deeply heartfelt collection of songs that feel like a refuge, woven from resilience, longing, and the irrepressible determination to find light in the darkest places. Equal parts reflective, mournful and optimistic, Canopy promises to be one of her most soulful and thought-provoking works yet. Produced by Sage with Grammy® nominated engineer/bassist Mikhail Pivovarov and mixed by Pivovarov and Grammy® winner Andy Zulla (Rod Stewart), Canopy is the debut full-length album with Sage’s signature band, the Sequins – violinist Kelly Halloran (Goo Goo Dolls), drummer Andy Mac (Pete Muller and the Kindred Souls) and harmonica player Trina Hamlin (Susan Werner). Additional special guests include cellist Ward Williams (Sara Bareilles), guitarists James Mastro (Ian Hunter) and Jack Petruzzelli (Patti Smith), organist Rob Curto (The Klezmatics), and cellist Dave Eggar (Paul Simon). Renowned trumpet player Russ Johnson (Elvis Costello), percussionist/drummer Doug Yowell (Joe Jackson) and rising blues harmonica star Will Wilde (Walter Trout) also contribute their talents.
Tour Dates (please see rachaelsage.com for all ongoing tour dates)
All shows with Kristen Ford unless noted otherwise *^ Kristen Ford, Christie Lenée *^^ Kristen Ford, Danielle Howle *^+ Kristen Ford, Tom Goss # Danni Nicholl ** Willy Porter ~ Sean Kelly
Suggested Post Rachael Sage & The Sequins released a joyful, upbeat, and summery new single! “Live It Up” is now available on all major streaming platforms. mpress.lnk.to/LiveItUp
Second Track Lands Ahead of Forthcoming Debut Full-Band Album, Canopy
NEW YORK, June 23, 2025 (Newswire.com)
– Acclaimed MPress Records alt-folk-pop singer-songwriter Rachael Sage has joined forces with her stellar longtime band The Sequins to record “Just Enough,” the second single to drop before her highly anticipated forthcoming full-length studio album, Canopy (a debut full-band release for Rachael Sage & The Sequins). Fit for cruising with the top down or a ’70s basement dance party, the song is a celebration of both romantic love and of one’s own beautiful individuality. Finding joy in acceptance of self and others, and the simple act of expressing love, it is a perfect sentiment for June and celebrating Pride and love in all forms.
“Just Enough” captures the Americana-Pop band at the peak of their musical powers, peddling positive vibes with a neo-folk flair. With instrumentation reminiscent of Van Morrison’s golden-era groove and harmonies hearkening to ’60s girl groups, this upbeat jam channels youthful exuberance with wah guitars, horns, Hammond organ, handclaps and a nostalgic spirit. There’s a vintage warmth to its sound with Sage’s lyrics – honest, tongue-in-cheek, and irrepressibly optimistic – that strike deep in a world that often demands too much. It’s a reminder that who we are is already more than enough.
Listen to “Just Enough” HERE Stream/download “Just Enough” HERE Catch Rachael Sage & The Sequins on their National “Under My Canopy” Tour (w/dates including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Pittsburgh, Nashville, & Portland) HERE
Rachael discusses the song, saying: “‘Just Enough,” at first listen, seems like a romantic love song and to some degree it started out that way when I was first writing it. But the longer I’ve played it live out on tour the more now it feels like it’s equally a mantra to oneself about being enough as you are: lovable enough, accomplished enough, attractive enough, smart enough…all the things that, for instance, a best friend or any loved-one might acknowledge in you are truly, unconditionally and authentically enough.”
Produced by Rachael Sage with Grammy® nominated engineer Mikhail Pivovarov, the track features Sage on vocals, electric guitar and percussion, accompanied by her longtime band The Sequins: Kelly Halloran (Goo Goo Dolls) on electro wah violin and background vocals, Trina Hamlin (Susan Werner) on background vocals, and Andy Mac (Pete Muller & The Kindred Souls) on drums. Other contributors include Rob Curto (The Klezmatics) on Hammond organ, Russ Johnson (Bill Frisell) on trumpet, Katie Marie (Paula Cole) on additional percussion, Mikhail Pivovarov on bass, and James Mastro (Ian Hunter) on lead electric guitar.
Tour Dates (please see rachaelsage.com for all ongoing tour dates)
also with: * Kristen Ford ** Kristen Ford, Jocelyn Mackenzie ++ Kristen Ford, Hannah Judson + Kristen Ford, Carissa Johnson, Sarah Donner *^ Kristen Ford, Christie Lenée *^^ Kristen Ford, Danielle Howle *^+ Kristen Ford, Tom Goss # Danni Nicholl
Suggested Post Rachael Sage & The Sequins’ infectious new single “Just Enough” is here just in time for Pride! Who doesn’t love wah guitars, groovy horns, and 60s-style harmonies with a neo-folk-pop flair? Stream/download: mpress.lnk.to/JustEnough
Sun Shade Releases Highly Anticipated EP “Move With Motion” – The Wait Is Over!
CLEVELAND, May 20, 2025 (Newswire.com)
– International reggae-soul artist Sun Shade has officially released his brand-new EP, “Move With Motion,” available now on all major streaming platforms. Known for his unique blend of smooth lover’s rock sound and heartfelt lyrics, Sun Shade delivers five fresh tracks that blend his Jamaican roots with a modern global vibe, piquing the interest of music lovers worldwide.
The EP features top-tier production by Computer Paul, Craig McDonald, and Foxy D Production – three recognizable names in reggae. This project follows the viral success of Sun Shade’s acclaimed cover of Phil Collins’s “Against All Odds,” which garnered global praise and cemented his place as an emerging voice in the international reggae scene.
“Move With Motion” marks a powerful new chapter in Sun Shade’s musical journey. It is a bold precursor to his upcoming full-length LP, scheduled to be released later this year.
Originally from Montego Bay, Jamaica, and now based in Ohio, Sun Shade draws on his roots and real-world experiences to create music that uplifts, heals, and connects. His style resonates across cultures, uniting listeners with messages of love, resilience, and unity.
Popular Artist Releases Fourth Album Featuring Big Ideas in Short Songs with a Voice All His Own
MANHATTAN, N.Y., March 21, 2025 (Newswire.com)
– Spring is in the air, and so is a wave of new music from Ed Gumbrecht and his collaborators! Introducing “Shorts” Gumbrecht’s latest album featuring eleven original songs that paint vivid musical stories. Here is a captivating journey through the modern landscape, where characters come alive, scenes unfold, and emotions dictate the rhythm.
Gumbrecht writes songs like a filmmaker makes movies. Take “Light Plays” a standout track that unfolds like a three-act movie. Light itself becomes a dynamic character, dancing in and out of a couple’s life, illuminating their connection and casting shadows in its wake. It’s an unconventional song structure that works because Gumbrecht has a knack for making the abstract feel relatable.
Dive into “Snow No More,” a poignant parable about climate change that’s both personal and universal. Gumbrecht offers a wry take on loss-not just of snowy winters, but of innocence and stability-while maintaining an embracingly warm tone.
Aging takes center stage in “Nearsighted Superhero,” where humor and tenderness blend seamlessly. It’s a playful yet poignant exploration of vulnerability and the simple truth that even the strongest among us must confront our limits.
Throughout the album, Gumbrecht utilizes a rich range of musical styles. “Sensitive Man” emerges as a delicate, funny, and quietly complex musical portrait, while “Ruminations” is a lively ode to a long-lasting love. From the quirky and playful “Kitchen Sunday Morning” to the joyful “Face Your Gratitude,” each song builds on the other, creating an enveloping and unforgettable atmosphere.
The album concludes with “Winter Moon,” a cinematic romance that transports listeners to a snowy night in upstate New York. It’s a fitting end to this musical journey, leaving us with a sense of homecoming after an exhilarating ride.
Gumbrecht’s collaborators play a vital role in shaping the album’s sound. Eric Michael Lichter (multi-instrumentalist and producer), Guido Falivene (sound engineer), and Claire Marie Gumbrecht (guest vocalist) bring their expertise to the table, infusing “Shorts” with roots, indie, and singer-songwriter influences.
Gumbrecht’s songwriting prowess shines through his use of intriguing chord progressions and warm acoustic instrumentation. His songs feel lived-in, timeless, and refreshingly free of overproduction. It’s the raw, unpolished quality that gives “Shorts” its vitality and charm.
In “Shorts,” Gumbrecht solidifies his reputation as a keen observer of our times. This album is a testament to his artistic evolution, delivering a memorable collection of fresh music that’s perfect for the springtime.
Listen, when TXT begins a new era called The Star Chapter, what are astrology-obsessed MOAs meant to do? Obviously, our brains immediately started whirring, and now here we are. If TXT want to be stars in the night sky, we’ll let them! Here’s which track from TXT’s The Star Chapter: SANCTUARY you should stream based on your zodiac sign.
‘Heaven’ – Pisces, Libra
‘Heaven’ is for the romantics, so naturally, we had to give it to Pisces and Libra. These two signs are well-known for being the most starry-eyed among us, and with lyrics like “From 1 to 10 you’re like an 11,” ‘Heaven’ simply had to be for them.
‘Over The Moon’ – Cancer, Leo
Next up is TXT’s title track from The Star Chapter: SANCTUARY, ‘Over The Moon,’ and these song choices were easy; the clue is in the title (track). The Cancer zodiac is ruled by the moon, so we had to pair them up! As for Leos, they love the spotlight, so they obviously have lead single energy. Combine that with the bright and intense rock energy of ‘Over The Moon,’ and you have a match made in heaven. Oh no wait, that was the last song…
‘Danger’ – Gemini, Sagittarius
These two star signs matching with TXT’s ‘Danger’ was a no-brainer. Geminis and Sagittarians are known for their spontaneity and curiosity. They’re not afraid and will say “Give me some of that danger,” any day.
‘Resist (Not Gonna Run Away)’ – Taurus, Virgo
From the two of the most curious zodiacs to two of the most stubborn. ‘Resist’ is passionate and committed, just like these two earth placements. From TXT’s dreamy falsettos to the reggaeton production, we’d be honored to have this one matched with our star signs.
‘Forty One Winks’ – Scorpio, Aquarius
‘Forty One Winks’ is for the quirky cool kids, AKA Scorpio and Aquarius. The romantic R&B energy is a perfect match for a sensual Scorpio. As for Aquarians? They play by their own rules, and so does ‘Forty One Winks’ with its play on words and imbued confidence.
‘Higher Than Heaven’ – Aries, Capricorn
Last, but definitely not least, we have Aries and Capricorn. Both are cardinal signs, which means they’re known to be trendsetters and march towards their goals. With ‘Higher Than Heaven,’ that’s exactly what TXT do too! The track is quintessential rock TXT, but they’re still pushing themselves and their music to evolve and reach “higher!”
Which TXT track did your zodiac get get? Does it match up with your favorite track on The Star Chapter: SANCTUARY? Let us know on Twitter @TheHoneyPOP! You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram!
Hey, honey bees it’s been a while since we brought you another artist to dive in and enjoy. Today, we thought we would introduce you to an artist who can seemingly do it all, from country to Imogen Heap-core music. Kristin Carter is your girl! Ever since her full album Full Bloom dropped, we have been full-on Kristin Carter fans, with the song basically playing on a loop. So we are sure you’d also enjoy her music.
Well, since we are obviously obsessed with the gal, we won’t stall much longer and give you our interview with this singer-songwriter all about her album, making music, inspirations, a Christmas album, and a potential tour! Let’s dive in.
First of all, hi Kristin it is such a pleasure to talk to you today, and congrats on your first full album Full Bloom. How did you celebrate the album finally hitting streaming platforms? Any special treat you gave yourself? Thank you! A pleasure to chat with you as well. I hosted a listening party and played some new songs from the album to celebrate. It was a great night, so that was a real treat for me!
The record is all about you reinventing yourself musically and it gives us peak contemporary pop vibes. We also hear a little bit of Imogen Heap in your songs, especially ‘I’m Still Here.’ What inspired you to switch genres? I’ve been influenced by a lot of different kinds of music in my lifetime; I grew up singing in choirs and loving musical theatre, but I also loved pop music, R&B, and country. All of these genres really drove the diverse sonic landscape of Full Bloom. The approach to making the album felt limitless which was exciting, and I really cherished the process of exploring all the different sounds and pathways that came up. I’m really flattered by the Imogen Heap comparison, I definitely leaned into layering and balancing harmonies.
All of Full Bloom’s tracks are meant to be musical flowers tackling different themes that are big in one’s 20s. However, let’s make an imaginary flower bouquet for the record. What flowers would be in it? I would have; peonies that represent bright hopefulness, roses that represent beauty, guarded with thorns to protect, wildflowers and greenery that represent spontaneity and existentialism, and baby’s breath for light and airy romantic energy. The album is very multifaceted in its themes and emotions, so the bouquet would be pretty varied as well. Lots of colors and shapes!
Image Source: Liz Rosa
We have to admit we were stunned watching the ‘I’m Still Here’ music video, the visuals are absolutely stunning and the concept is so unique and fitting for the song’s theme of personal resilience. Who came up with the ideas for the music video? How was it filming it with your friends? Any funny or meaningful moments from set? Thank you! It turned out even better than I had imagined. My friend and collaborator Eva Tavares conceptualized the idea of the statue in the garden, weathered over time. It was such a blast to film with friends. We were all super excited about the project.
One of my favorite memories from that day was goofing around with the visual effects makeup artist Isabelle Fallu, who created the statue look for the video (no special effects, that was all makeup!). It was about 3 hours each morning to get into the look, so we got to know each other very fast. The makeup was very durable – so durable that I needed a special makeup remover to get it off. The first day filming, I had run out of it and had to go to the store to get more after the shoot. I tried to hide my face as best as possible, so I didn’t scare anyone but I did give some poor guy a jump scare.
Full Bloom is definitely your most vulnerable work yet and we appreciate getting to see more of Kristin Carter. Let’s talk about how this record came about. Which one was the first song you wrote from the record? What came first melody or a line of lyric? I can’t remember which song came first, to be honest. It was a several-year process of collecting and writing over time. It was kind of hard to narrow it down at the end! In terms of what came first; lyrics or melody, it really varied. Sometimes I’d think of some lyrics or a topic I really wanted to write about and other times I’d hear a melody. Occasionally my collaborator Marcus Ramsay would also come up with an instrumental loop and we would write to that, it was a really flexible process which I loved.
Speaking of the making of Full Bloom, how did you decide on the track list lineup? ‘Euphoria’ as one of the lead singles opens the record while ‘I’m Still Here’ can be found rather late on the record. What was your process and the story you wanted to tell? I wanted to have a smooth mix of upbeat into slow and then upbeat again etc. ‘Euphoria’ has that neat cinematic intro so Marcus and I thought it would be perfect to open the album. From there, we tried to stack things by pace and feel. We ended with ‘Good People Good Wine’ which has that singalong outro. It felt like the perfect way to end the album.
How does it feel now that the ‘Lazy Sunday’ music video is out for the world to see? Very exciting. Our whole crew worked super hard on it so it’s great to be able to share it. I never thought I’d learn how to fly in my life, and now I can’t wait to do it again some day. Luckily I’m not afraid of heights!
We can’t talk about your music without mentioning ‘Karma’ and how absolutely addicting it is as a country song. The line “Karma is a boomerang you get what you give” is incredibly catchy and so on point. What’s your favorite line from the song? Thanks for loving it! My favorite line would be “The wicked web you wove gonna come unstitched It’s a universal truth hunny Karma, is a…” because it has some awesome alliteration in there.
Yes, ‘Karma’ has made it onto our line dance playlist. Have you ever had an idea for one for the single? Would you ever love to see your fans do a TikTok challenge to the song? I’ll leave that to the extremely talented dancers on TikTok! I would certainly love to see fans having fun with any of my songs, because when I really think about how I want to impact people, my hope is that they connect with my music and express their appreciation in ways that are positive and fun for them. However they want to support me – whether it’s going to shows, listening on streaming platforms, TikTok challenges, or picking one of my songs for a wedding, which blows my mind – that just means I’ve accomplished what I set out to do. It’s an amazing feeling. I appreciate the love in all forms!
Your newest record explores the possibilities of contemporary pop but will we ever get another country, Kristin Carter? Or what other genres would you like to explore? Full Bloom has a contemporary pop flavour for sure, but the songs are influenced by a wide variety of genres. Country is just one of these genres. I don’t think my music will ever have just one genre label moving forward, because I enjoy exploring different styles and bringing them together. Something I am really excited to explore is recording a Christmas album, which I will be doing next!
This one is definitely not just for us and to get more info about your music taste. But if you had to make a playlist themed around ‘I’m Still Here’ or any other song off of Full Bloom which artists would be on it? What would be the cover photo and name of the playlist? If it was based on ‘I’m Still Here’, you mentioned Imogen Heap earlier and her music would certainly be on it. I would also have Adele, Bjork, Enya and Sarah McLachlan. The cover photo would be a black and white picture of the ocean or a wave with the title ‘I’m Still Hear’ for a sneaky little play on words.
Image Source: Liz Rosa
And last but not least, if you ever get the chance to tour for Full Bloom, what would a Kristin Carter tour be like? What would be the color concept, the stage design, and most importantly the opening song? For a stadium tour, the opener would be ‘Euphoria’ – it’s upbeat and gets the vibes going. As for stage design, if I had all the money in the world, I would have a stage that doubles as a projection screen that has flower visualizers and warm lights blooming while the performance is going on with colors to match the theme of each song. The images would interact with me and the band while performing to create an immersive experience for the audience. I would also love to do a more intimate tour where I can speak about the themes and inspiration for the songs. It would feature me on a stage with a grand piano that is bursting with hundreds of flowers falling to the floor. There would be flowers everywhere.
Well, there you have it. We are already saving up for either of these tours that’s for sure Kristin. Also that Christmas album? We are sooo ready. But what about you? What’s your favorite song off the Full Bloom album? Let us know in the comments below or hit us up on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!
The only thing that’s saving us? New Summer Walker music.
She keeps a pretty low profile but continues to dominate the music industry at every turn. After the release of Still Over It, Walker gained major success, performed at Dreamville, collaborated with SZA, and went mainstream. Did we ever get over it? No, no, we did not. Since then, we’ve really been missing Summer’s music here in the hive. Seemingly out of nowhere, Summer announced the release of ‘Heart Of A Woman’, and the world went wild.
Image Source: Single Artwork, courtesy of Interscope
Here’s what we thought about the new track and what we’re looking forward to next from Summer!
‘Heart Of A Woman’
This track is a prime example of why fans flock to Summer’s music now more than ever. ‘Heart of A Woman’ opens slowly with that whimsical, alluring vocal style that Summer is known for. Listeners are immediately drawn to her dreamy vocals and stylized lyrics.
“Question is, why I do the things I do? Answer I may never find, but I’ll always choose you Wanna give up on you but, damn, I know I can’t I put the blame on me for giving you chance after chance”
Summer seems to find herself stuck in a tough situation where she keeps going back to the one person who is seemingly bad for her. Don’t worry Summer, we’ve all been there. But when we find ourselves there, we often ask ourselves, “Why?.” There might not ever be an answer, but we know we must look inward to try to find answers. As usual, Summer’s music is quite therapeutic and per usual, we find ourselves relating to every word.
Finally Over It
If this track is any indication of what is to come on Finally Over It, we are super excited! The new album does not have a release date yet, but we are hoping it’ll be ours by the time 2024 is over. We just can’t wait any longer than that!
What did you think about ‘Heart Of A Woman?’ Are you excited for Summer Walker’s new album? Let us know all your thoughts in the comments below or by buzzing with us on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook 🐝
Pop girls are so back. Leading the pack is Addison Rae. Some may have doubted her, but with the drop of ‘Diet Pepsi,’ our girl proved everyone wrong. Fans, new and OG, flocked to TikTok to lipsync to the addictingly caffeinated pop song and get the song climbing the charts. Addison even sang the song as a special guest on the Sweat Tour with Charli xcx and Troye Sivan. It was an instant hit, to say the least, and a hard song to follow. With many wondering what would come next for Addison, she suddenly started dropping hints online with mermaid, oyster, and sea shell emojis. That could only mean one thing, ‘Aquamarine’ was coming. 🦪🧜♀️🌊
The salty song has only been ours for a few days, but it’s already another smash hit with the music video already at 1.7 million views! To celebrate ‘Aquamarine’ and Addison’s success, we’re creating our dream mermaid look inspired by the most iconic lyrics in the song.
Oyster Shell Bra
“The world is my oyster“
It’s only fitting that our dream mermaid look incorporates oysters somehow. So why not make them our shell bra? And don’t worry, we won’t let the pearls go to waste! We’ll use them to make anklets, bracelets, and earrings for ourselves and our mer-friends. We know Addison would love this touch of detail – we hope we can make real custom jewelry for her one day!
Aquamarine Blue Tail
“Aquamarine, honey dive into me”
It would be a missed opportunity if we did not incorporate the title of the song into our look. Aquamarine is one of our favorite colors, so we had to make it the star of the show. Our mermaid tail will be a gorgeous shade of blue and green and maybe even have a little holographic shimmer to it as well. If you could design a mermaid tail in any color, what color would it be?
Heart Of The Ocean Necklace
“Heart of The Ocean around my neck”
Addison gave us this inspiration all on her own! The Heart of The Ocean is an iconic dark blue necklace that you may have seen dangling around Rose’s neck in Titanic. We could definitely envision our mermaid look with this necklace, and it would match so beautifully with our aquamarine tail.
Salt Hair
“Swimmin’ in the sea with the salt in my hair”
Our favorite part about going to the beach? Walking out of the water with shiny salty hair. Our mermaid look would be complete with a “wet hair” look and a lot of salt. So much salt that our hair and our skin would glisten even from the deepest depths of the ocean. Edward Cullen has nothing on us!
Image Source: Carin Backoff
Did you love Addison Rae’s new song, ‘Aquamarine?’ What did you think about our mermaid look? Let us know how you would design a mermaid look inspired by ‘Aquamarine’ in the comments below or by buzzing with us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook! 🐝
The most compelling singer-songwriters can tell a story with not only their lyrics, but the way they unleash the emotions of the song with their voice, and the perfect example is rising superstar Leroy Sanchez. He’s stolen hearts worldwide with his latest viral hit, ‘NUCLEAR,’ and we know this is just the beginning of a whole new chapter for his career! As the culmination of over a decade of experience in music, the song sets the bar high for his upcoming debut album while Leroy effortlessly describes the thrill and threat of a passionate relationship in a perfectly immersive way.
We got to ask Leroy all about ‘NUCLEAR,’ his creative process, posting covers online, and more! Watch the ‘NUCLEAR’ music video below and keep reading to check out our exclusive Q&A. Side note: we wish real-life trips to the grocery store could be this interesting.
Hi Leroy, congrats on the release of ‘NUCLEAR!’ How did it feel to finally let the song out into the world and into your fans’ lives? Thank you so much!! It was always so exciting to release new music for the fans and for the world to listen! It was also a bit nerve-racking because you never know how people will react, but I was super proud of ‘NUCLEAR.’ I thought fans would get to see a side of me they hadn’t seen before, and I hoped they were excited too.
What does ‘NUCLEAR’ mean to you, and is there a certain lyric you’re especially proud of? ‘NUCLEAR’ means the beginning of an amazing new journey for me. It’s my first single leading up to my debut album! It’s the result of years of hard work and everything I’ve learned as an artist, producer, and songwriter. I’m super proud of it! One lyric that really stands out for me is, “slow down every inch of time before our love goes nuclear.” I love how it captures the contrast between something as tiny as an inch of a second and the vastness of going nuclear. It really shows how the little things can have a really big impact.
‘NUCLEAR’ has been popping off on TikTok, which must be so exciting to see! Do you have any favorite videos or trends you’ve seen fans make using the song? I’m absolutely obsessed with all the content people are making to ‘NUCLEAR’ on TikTok! I’ve seen so many cool and different trends, but my absolute favorite has to be when fans dance to the original choreography from the music video. First of all, it’s not an easy dance, but everyone is giving it their all, and the best part is seeing how much FUN everyone is having while doing it. To see the joy in their faces as they recreate those fun dance moves makes me SO HAPPY. It’s very refreshing and healing to have a trend like this right now, especially with all the negativity and division around us.
If you could have any artist cover ‘NUCLEAR’ or hop on for a remix, who would you choose and why? Oh wow, what an exciting question! What about Khalid? His smooth vocals would sound so sick with this song and also give it a whole new vibe. A lot of people have also been wanting to hear Sia or Chris Brown singing it, and I think that’d be so fun to listen to as well!
Congrats on the success of ‘NUCLEAR!’ What has it been like for you to see how much fans love the song? Thank you! Honestly, it’s been quite surreal to see how much love people have shown NUCLEAR and I’m so grateful. Just last week, I was at the iHeartRadio Music Festival, watching all these amazing artists, and I had this thought; “how wild would it be to hear this crowd sing ‘NUCLEAR?’” Out of curiosity, I checked my TikTok to see how the post with ‘NUCLEAR’ was doing, and just a few hours before, the video had about 17k views. At that moment, it had jumped to 150k! I turned to my friend Ryan, who was totally immersed in watching Gwen Stefani, and I said to him, “Something’s happening…” By the next morning, it was close to a million views! Just imagine a fraction of those people singing ‘NUCLEAR’ together!
You recently told The Knockturnal that part of what made ’Nuclear’ so special to you is that it reminded you of the songs you’d hear on the radio while growing up in Spain. How has your upbringing shaped how you approach making music? Have any Spanish artists particularly inspired you for this new chapter? Growing up in Spain has completely shaped how I approach music. I’m from a very small town in the Basque Country, with barely 3,300 people. I was a very emotional kid and music became my escape and eventually my passion. I was obsessed with how the songs on the radio made me feel, and I wanted to recreate that. So, when I write music, I always try to capture that sense of escape and make sure the songs hit me emotionally.
One artist who’s inspired me a lot, not so much in style but in spirit, is Rosalía. I find it amazing how she’s stayed true to herself no matter what’s trending in the industry and still managed to succeed. It’s a reminder that I have my own story to tell and that trusting my instincts is key to doing the music that feels real to me.
Something that stands out about each song you’ve released so far is how emotive your voice is! Do you have a certain ritual or tradition to get into the right headspace for a song before you record? It really depends on the situation when I’m recording. For instance, with ‘NUCLEAR,’ the vocals you hear are the original demo vocals, the very first ones I recorded when writing the songs. A lot of times, the purest emotion comes through right in that moment, and it’s hard to recreate that later. When I do have to re-record, I try to go into the booth without listening to the track beforehand, so I can approach it fresh and be as raw as possible. As soon as I start overthinking it, the emotion gets lost, even if the technical side gets better. To me, it doesn’t matter if a song is technically perfect… If it doesn’t make you feel something, it’s not worth it.
You got your start in music when you started posting covers on YouTube in 2015 – what’s something you learned during that time that you’ve carried with you while working on your original music? The biggest thing I learned is to always keep pushing yourself to improve your craft. When I started, all I had was a crappy little digital camera and a low-lit room to film in. But I’d always try to make each video better with what little I had, which forced me to get creative. That really stuck with me, whether it’s with singing, writing, or just being a better artist, I’m always looking for ways to grow and get more creative.
In addition to your own music, you notably co-wrote Chanel’s ‘SloMo,’ which became a global hit on Eurovision and went to #1 on Billboard’s Spanish Songs chart! Do you approach working on songs for other artists differently than you approach working on your own songs? Yeah, the approach is definitely different. When writing for other artists, you have to step into their shoes and imagine you’re living their life for a moment. It’s kind of like writing a song for someone while looking at them through a tiny peephole—you only see a small part of who they are compared to everything they know about themselves. So you take the little bit you know and shape it into what you think their “artist” persona should sound like. If the artist is in the room, you basically become their therapist for the session, trying to pull out what they’re going through, process it, and then turn it into a song.
But when I write for myself, I have access to everything in my own mind! Which can be both freeing but also overwhelming because there’s so much to pull from. It’s a much deeper, more personal process.
What can your fans look forward to in the rest of 2024? 2024 is just a warm-up for what’s coming in 2025, but before the year’s over, fans can expect to hear some more new stuff, and maybe even get into the holiday spirit with me!
Is there anything else you’d like to mention or say to your fans that the questions didn’t touch on? I hope you all enjoyed ‘NUCLEAR’ and that you sang your hearts out to it! Oh! And don’t forget to share those covers! I can’t wait to hear your beautiful voices!
You already know we’ll be singing our hearts out to ‘NUCLEAR’ until the end of time. Thank you so much to Leroy for answering our questions and giving us such great music to jam out to!
Now, honeybees, we have some questions for you! What do you think of ‘NUCLEAR?’ Which part of the song is your favorite to sing along with? Let us know in the comments below or hit us up on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!
If you haven’t heard of Leddra Chapman, you can bet one of your faves definitely has. Much like our girl Chappell Roan, Leddra could be considered “your favorite artist’s favorite artist.” For example, her debut album, Telling Tales (2009) was highlighted as one of Ed Sheeran‘s favorite albums of the year in an interview and she even guest vocaled on some of his work, including the album +, which we love dearly. Do you now see why we’re so hyped to talk about her third studio album, Telling Truths?
As the name suggests, Telling Truths is a super honest and vulnerable album which features 11 tracks of heartfelt lyrics that make you want to scream along during a long drive by yourself to get your feelings in order. Yeah, we may or may not have done that already 👀. But either way, we totally recommend doing that whenever you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Telling Truths album artwork | Image Source: Kartel Music Group
We could sit here and talk for hours about each of the 11 songs on Telling Truths, but we won’t. We want to give you the highlight reel and let you find out the rest for yourself when you listen to the full album and tell us your thoughts on it afterward. But just know this: you are going to relate to at least one of the songs. Each of them looks at a different aspect of human existence in such a beautifully poetic way that just speaks to our hearts.
We couldn’t start with any song other than ‘What If I,’ one of the lead singles and the first track of the album. The song starts slow and with lyrics full of insecurities, like “What if I fall?” and “What if I hurt myself?” but then it builds up to a more confident “What if I make it on my own? What if I prove myself and everybody wrong?,” turning it into a confidence boost anthem for anyone who needs a pick me up.
On to one of our personal favorites, the “don’t mess with me” song of Telling Truths, ‘Type Of Monster.’ This song is a little heavier on the instrumentals and Leddra’s vocals match it perfectly (as usual). In the lyrics, Leddra Chapman gives us some insight into how her family made her the person she is today, and in the chorus, she calls out the “snake in sheep’s clothing” directly by asking “don’t you know who you’re dealing with?” And boy did Ledda answer it beautifully. As we’ve said, one of our faves from the album.
Lastly, we have to highlight ‘Inside Out.’ If you asked us to describe this song in a single word, it would be “healing.” In this super upbeat pop song, Leddra Chapman uses her powerful yet angelic voice to tell us about a fire that’s being reignited in her and how good it is to feel alive again. Special shout out to the lyrics “Been lost for ages, finding myself again and it feels like my heart is beating inside out.”
If you’re curious to see what else awaits you in Leddra Chapman’s Telling Truths, be sure to check out the full album here.
And if you’ve fallen in love with Leddra Chapman’s music like we did and you live in the UK, you’re in luck because our girl has just started a UK headline run this month. The first show happened on October 10 in Camberley, at the Login Lounge, but you can catch her at any of the dates below:
27 Oct – London, OMEARA (Album Launch)
29 Oct – Nottingham, The Bodega
30 Oct – Sheffield, The Greystones
16 Nov – Milton Keynes, The Stables
What do you think of Leddra Chapman’s Telling Truths? Let us know your thoughts by tweeting us at @thehoneypop or chatting with us on Facebook and Instagram!
