Watts release long-awaited recorded debut ‘Retribution’
With searing heat and velocity, young Orlando hardcore band Watts have been one of the most meteoric forces to rise in the area over the past year. Their following is sizable, rabid and snowballing. With only a couple of singles to their name so far, that red-hot street cred is built almost entirely on their live shows, which are volcanic affairs that incite some of the most extreme pits around. Now get ready, punks, because Watts just dropped their first ever collection and it lands like a grenade.
With the brand-new six-song Retribution EP, Watts — the quartet of vocalist Brielle Bennett, bassist Chrissy McKeever, drummer Dakotah Walker and guitarist Nickolai Rushka — are notching a lot of firsts. It’s the band’s debut suite and features some of the very first songs they wrote. It also marks the first project that Walker recorded and mixed.
To Walker’s credit, the record takes an approach that eschews arty indulgence for a directness that’s unvarnished and head-on. By keeping the sound clean in a way that’s more naked than polished, Watts’ brutality hits with full force and legibility. While dirtier, their first two singles (2023’s “Hard Hitter” and “Choke”) aren’t as visceral as anything here. Retribution doesn’t just rip hard, it does it with swashbuckling brinkmanship. It’s a riot of nasty guitars, bludgeoning beats and feral vocals.
Without question, the Retribution EP is Watts’ most chiseled look to date. With pure muscle and unhinged mania, it packs all the requisite toughness to feed the hardcore need but roars with an intensity that’s refreshingly free of the male edge that’s so institutional to the genre. It’s an exhilarating snapshot of a band who are a beacon of punk’s future and whose time is now.
Retribution now streams everywhere and atop TLU’s Spotify playlist, but no recording can ever capture the physical insanity of a Watts show. So this week at Will’s Pub, go get the full experience when Montgomery Drive and The Coop present Watts’ release show, also featuring Baltimore’s Gasket and Jacksonville’s Flask. (8 p.m. Monday, July 8, $15).
Everyone has been on our girl Megan Thee Stallion for every little thing, and with her newest self-titled album, MEGAN, she continues to shut all the haters down. With what she has gone through these past couple of years, we can’t help but always want to support our girl, and you know what? She makes it really, really easy to love her, especially with this newest album.
So, we heard a couple of songs from MEGAN before its release, ‘BOA,’ ‘HISS,’ and ‘Cobra,’ which set up what was expected from the album, and we instantly knew we wouldn’t be disappointed. It doesn’t matter if you hit shuffle, click a random one, or start with the first one on the album; this album will be your fave release of the year. With this album, we have 15 brand-new tracks, and as we said, it was hit after hit after hit.
We just had a lot of fun while listening to MEGAN; we went from dancing to crying to dancing again. Which made it harder when picking our faves, but honestly, we can’t stop listening to ‘BOA,’ ‘Where Them Girls At,’ ‘Moody Girl,’ ‘Mamushi (feat. Yuki Chiba),’ and ‘Otaku Hot Girl,’ but don’t tell the rest of the tracks. And though we weren’t surprised at the Anime references, we were still shocked at the beginning of ‘Otaku Hot Girl,’ if you haven’t listened to it and are a Jujutsu Kaisen fan, you’re gonna love it. We also really liked the diverse collabs she had on the album; we love hearing familiar voices, as well as falling in love with people we might not be familiar with.
Now because we had so much fun with this album, we thought we might tell you some of our fave lyrics in a fun little way. So here are some MEGAN lyrics in the format of old Tumblr posts.
‘Moody Girl’
Source: Canva, Edited by: Valerie Valdez
“So many friends but I still feel lonely / How come none of y’all call to check on me?”
‘Find Out’
Source: Canva, Edited: Valerie Valdez
“Before I get played, I play with myself, cross me, I don’t care, I’m still blessed”
‘Cobra’
Source: Canva, Edited By: Valerie Valdez
“Breakin’ down and I had the whole world watchin’ / But the worst part is really who watched me”
‘Worthy’
Source: Canva, Edited By: Valerie Valdez
“I’m worthy, not worthless”
‘BOA’
Source: Canva, Edited by: Valerie Valdez
“All the sudden, they vegan, they don’t want beef”
There’s really so many more we could’ve done, because Megan truly killed it with the bars on MEGAN. We can’t wait to see what else she has in store for us with this album. She has been teasing music videos, so keep your eyes peeled. And just because Pride month is ending doesn’t mean your support of everyone’s fave bi-icon, Megan Thee Stallion, has to stop now; make sure you stream her self-titled album here.
What is your favorite track from the album? Which lyrics are your favorite? Let us know in the comments down below or over on Twitter @thehoneypop, and don’t forget to talk to us on Facebook and Instagram!
Chuu’s first mini-album was a perfect release to introduce the world to who she really is as an artist. While we still haven’t gotten tired of those incredible songs, Chuu isn’t wasting any time, and she’s back with her first solo comeback, Strawberry Rush! And yes, it’s just as good as (if not better than) Howl…
The Title Track
After ‘Howl,’ Chuu taps into retro and city pop for her new title track, ‘Strawberry Rush.’ The song is energetic and fun but still has undertones full of hope and emotions. The surprising rap parts are a cute highlight of this song. ‘Strawberry Rush’ is all about support, love and reassurance. It embodies Chuu’s positive side perfectly – it’s sweet, full of flavor, and full of love. Overall, it’s such a fresh and addictive song, perfect for the summer.
Right from her debut, Chuu created a visual world of her own with her music videos, and the music video for ‘Strawberry Rush’ continues in that world. In ‘Howl,’ Chuu comes out of the dark and embraces the idea that life comes with uncertainty but also beauty. With ‘Strawberry Rush,’ we’re thrown into a world full of color, fun animations, and creativity. If ‘Strawberry Rush’ didn’t give you the serotonin boost you needed by itself, its music video will do it.
The B-sides
Chuu stuck to the style and energy she had displayed on her first mini-album and we love that. But she still manages to give us fresh and unique songs in Strawberry Rush that expand her range. ‘Honeybee’ is a sweet, summery track clearly inspired by bossa nova. It showcases the softer, more lowkey side of her vocals, and the play on words all throughout the song makes it even better.
Chuu has been known for always bringing happiness and spreading positivity. And that’s precisely what she does with her music, but even more so with ‘Daydreamer.’ In this b-side, Chuu sings about romanticizing everyday life, seeing the bright side of things, and daydreaming about a beautiful world. ‘Daydreamer’ captures the magic of creativity and finding beauty in everything, both in the lyrics and the instrumental.
‘Lucid Dream’ has to be one of the main highlights of Strawberry Rush. In this beautiful song, Chuu sings about embracing her dreams and believing in herself against all odds. ‘Lucid Dream’ has a certain vulnerability to it, both with its vocals and melodies, all while remaining optimistic. It’s a true celebration of Chuu’s path, dream, talent and art.
Strawberry Rush closes with ‘Chocolate’ and its English version, a special single Chuu released for Valentine’s Day earlier this year. It’s a cute, addictiv,e and upbeat love song. Even months after its release, we’re still obsessed with this one. With the video game motifs, ‘Chocolate’ fits perfectly into Strawberry Rush, making it an even brighter release.
Chuu continues to brighten our lives with her music and expands her world through her music, music videos, and artistic vision. Strawberry Rush is a perfect mini-album for the summertime and a killer first comeback. Chuu is a solo artist everyone should have in their playlist right now.
Are you loving ‘Strawberry Rush’ as much as we are? What’s your favorite b-side on Chuu’s new mini-album? Be sure to let us know by tweeting us at @thehoneypop or visiting us on Facebook and Instagram.
Popstars have been the backbone of the music industry for decades upon decades. There were OG divas like Whitney Houston and Britney Spears. There were Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, and Rihanna. But it felt like we were in need of a fresh sound.
Most of our original pop girls are onto ventures like starting beauty lines, starring in films, writing books, and starting families. There wasn’t an immediate need to release albums or tour anymore. So the takeover of male artists on Billboard charts ensued.
Of course, the shine to Taylor Swift will blaze on. But the world grows tired of hearing the same few artists over and over. As always, there’s a bright new, shiny Next Big Thing on the horizon.
The summer of 2024 proves that you don’t necessarily need to be a “new” artist to rise to superstardom. Ever since Coachella, it has become clear that there are two Next Big Things in the realm of pop music: Sabrina Carpenter and Chappell Roan.
Both Carpenter and Roan signed to labels when they were young. You may know Carpenter from opening for Swift on The Eras Tour or her stint as a Disney star. And you may know Chappell as the opener for Olivia Rodrigo on The Guts Tour.
Chappell has been signed to Atlantic Records since she was 17 – back when she uploaded an original song called “Die Young” to YouTube. Under Atlantic, Chappell released an EP and eventually, in 2020, released “Pink Pony Club.” Not long after, she was dropped.
Everything shifted in September 2023. After being dropped from the label, she remained independent until releasing her debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, through Island Records.
Come 2024, Chappell toured the album in two parts, captivating fans’ hearts with her wit, her live vocal ability, and her homemade tour outfits that were equally as camp as her music.
In the meantime, she remained in control of her social media accounts. Regularly posting funny TikTok anecdotes, capturing more fans in her web along the way. Although Chappell’s album was receiving rave reviews, we were still a little ways away from the world finding her.
Once she joined friend Olivia Rodrigo on The Guts Tour (previously appearing as The SOUR Tour opener), Roan’s streams saw a 32% increase. But this was only the beginning.
April 2024 marks the complete juggernaut of Chappell Roan’s career. She’s no longer a best-kept secret. Chappell Roan – who sings candidly about sexuality and celebrates being gay in her drag-inspired makeup, her wild red hair, and her Lady Gaga-esque dedication to dramatics – was about to become the next mega-popstar.
The Rise Of Chappell Roan
In early April, Chappell released “Good Luck Babe” as the next single from The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess. It felt like the start of the rest of her career. Her way of telling the world: here I am to give you the latest, refreshing pop music. And while I’m at it, shine light on the LGBTQ+ community.
The song received 7 million streams in the first week, “Good Luck Babe” became her fastest song to reach 100 million streams in no time. And then came the Coachella performance.
Chappell was set to perform in the Gobi tent. If you’re clued in to Coachella lore, the tents are generally smaller venues compared to the stages. It’s not typically reserved for bigger artists because they draw larger crowds.
However, during Chappell Roan’s Weekend I set, the Gobi tent overflowed with fans and new listeners alike. The world was watching on the Coachella livestream. And thanks to social media, thousands of TikToks and Instagram Reels were sourced and shared to millions of viewers.
Chappell Roan caught the world’s attention by being true to herself. Her humility and humor make her relatable – she often displays emotions on stage no matter what they are. Her avant-garde makeup and outfits pay homage to fabulous drag queens and are reminiscent of Lady Gaga in 2010.
And of course, her music brings back a sense of fun to the world. Each song is catchy, daring, and reveals Roan’s true colors. After Coachella, her monthly listener count on Spotify saw a 500% increase to 7 million.
The Year Of Chappell Roan Continues
Since then, the world’s attention is on Chappell Roan. Her monthly listener count sits at over 24 million. She’s dined with new friend Elton John, who shared her album with Ed Sheeran, who also adores it.
She took the stage at Gov Ball 2024 inside an apple, dressed as the Statue of Liberty, holding a massive joint…to a massive crowd – bigger than the headliners. She’s as in-demand as it gets right now…publicly declaring she turned down a visit to the White House until there’s liberty and justice for all.
In an audacious performance, Chappell Roan declares herself as “your favorite artist’s favorite artist.” And she’s not wrong anymore. It’s no longer simply an outrageous statement. Simply put. Chappell Roan is a sensation.
She receives acclaim from Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, SZA, Sabrina Carpenter, Olivia Rodrigo, and so many more. And has been candid about struggling with her recent rapid rise to the top – breaking down onstage, sharing with viewers on TikTok that many pop girls are really just as nice as they seem.
As she continues to grow and flourish in the public eye, Chappell Roan’s bearing up under the burden of pop princess. It’s something she has in common with another rising star, Sabrina Carpenter – who often goes viral for her off-the-cuff comments and sexual innuendos.
A new voice of our generation – Chappell Roan is a breath of fresh air. The people love honesty, they love personality, and they love fine music. Thank goodness Chappell Roan has all three.
You can stream Chappell’s The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess here:
Our love for Red Velvet is nothing short of cosmic, and that’s especially true now that we’ve heard their latest EP, Cosmic. Ever since their debut in 2014, they’ve consistently delivered incredible songs, music videos, and more that have cemented their way into K-Pop history. Cosmic is a stunning culmination of a decade of hard work, success, and magic that’s guaranteed to win over any girl group fan!
The Cosmic mini-album celebrates the group’s 10th anniversary with a beautiful fusion of their Red and Velvet concepts, mixing their signature harmonies and R&B influences with bubbly energy and sparkling excitement. This duality also pops up in the era’s visuals – most of the concept photos were space-themed and ethereal, while the ‘Cosmic’ music video takes place in a meadow à la Midsommar.
With the cosmic theme in mind, venture “through the solar system” and into the cosmos with us as we assign each track on Cosmic to a different zodiac constellation!
‘Cosmic’
Our first peek into Red Velvet’s latest era came with the title track ‘Cosmic,’ which is a sparkly anthem for summer love! Throughout the song, Red Velvet likens their hearts to a star that “tells [them] she’s a bit lonely” as they start falling for someone. They’re ready to take on the world with this new lover by their side! And the chorus’ “riding your rhythm through the solar system” lyric is a fun nod to their 2022 song ‘Feel My Rhythm.’
The Gemini constellation would be a great match for this song since it’s about connection and unity! That symbolism comes from the Greek myth of Castor and Pollux, who were twin brothers despite having different dads. It reminds us of how the members of Red Velvet are like sisters now, even if they aren’t related!
“‘Come with me,’ you say ‘Discover things no human eyes have seen,’ you say I just can’t say goodnight…”
‘Sunflower’
‘Sunflower’ is an energetic, adorable song about the thrilling rush of love. It’s as bright as a ‘Sunflower!’ If someone wrote something this sweet about us, we think we’d collapse on the spot. The “I’ll find you in my dreams, driving forward” lyric might be a callback to ‘In My Dreams,’ one of our all-time fave Red Velvet songs, which makes us love this track even more. Our constellation pick for this one is Aries, since it often symbolizes new beginnings and adventure. What an exciting way to describe a new relationship!
“I might melt away in your universe You got me hypnotized…”
‘Last Drop’
Is it really a Red Velvet EP if we don’t shed a few tears? We think not, and ‘Last Drop’ was the song that brought on the waterworks! Full of pretty synths and guitar strums, it’s all about Red Velvet’s love and appreciation for Reveluvs who have supported them over the years. Even with how difficult it can be in the music industry, they promise to keep delivering amazing music for us and giving us every last drop of effort. We also love how the “dazzling night festival” lyric references their iconic The ReVe Festival albums.
Our official constellation choice for ‘Last Drop’ is Cancer, which symbolizes loyalty. We’ll always be loyal supporters of Red Velvet!
“I’ll fly lightyears to find you To you, who made me shine bright in the boundless night To you, my universe and the only reason I exist…”
‘Love Arcade’
‘Love Arcade’ has already become one of our favorite Red Velvet b-sides thanks to its creative theme and production! The song compares love to a game that the girls are ready to take on, and its retro pop sounds that sound like a classic video game soundtrack will make you feel like you’re really in a fun arcade. We think the Scorpio constellation would be the best match – it symbolizes passion, strategy, and power, which are three important things when you’re playing a game.
“Everything is ready, there are no rules (Make a new stage) Should we end this boring quest? Let’s go to the top…”
‘Bubble’
‘Bubble’ is an energizing, synth-infused track about exploring the world and embracing all its possibilities with the right person by your side. And since this is RV’s anniversary comeback, we think it’s about the group themselves! They’ve made the global music scene their “shiny” stage together and it’s been so fun to watch over the years, especially with how many different sounds and concepts they’ve explored. We’d match up ‘Bubble’ with the Sagittarius constellation, which represents exploration!
“I want to be with you wherever you go Following your light because all dreams become clearer…”
‘Night Drive’
The Cosmic mini-album ends with ‘Night Drive,’ a midtempo synthpop song with a relaxing edge, which would make the perfect soundtrack for an actual ‘Night Drive’ down a city street. It tells a story about enjoying a night drive with someone you care about, possibly as a celebration of Red Velvet’s members or Reveluvs. We think ‘Night Drive’ would totally pair well with the Pisces constellation, which is associated with love and escapism! The symbolism comes from a Greek myth in which Aphrodite and her son, Eros, escape a monster by turning into fish.
“You tell me, ‘I’ll always be by your side, I promise…’”
Which track on Cosmic do you get the most starry-eyed for? Did we match up your fave with the constellation for your zodiac sign? Let us know in the comments below or hit us up on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!
If you’ve been scrolling endlessly on your For You Page like us, you’ve probably come across an artist named Tommy Richman. Don’t recognize the name? You definitely recognize the song ‘Million Dollar Baby.’ It debuted at number 2 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart, hit number 1 on Billboard‘s Global 200 chart, and joined the Tik TokBillboard Top 50. Well, that rich baby just dropped another hit and this time you’ll be listening.
The name of the track is ‘DEVIL IS A LIE,’ but Tommy is certainly our angel. You can listen to it and get your groove on here. If you want to get a sense of the type of vibes Tommy is bringing to the table, just check out the music video.
Super cool, right? We think so too! This song gets us so excited for any upcoming projects Tommy may be secretly working on 👀 This is your sign to go ahead and add ‘DEVIL IS A LIE’ to your many summer playlists, because it’s just going to keep growing in popularity! Don’t believe us? Check out those TikTok streams already…
If you loved ‘DEVIL IS A LIE’ we encourage you to check out the rest of Tommy’s discography and let us know which song you loved most in the comments below or by chatting with us on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram! 🐝
Ashton Irwin bursts into our scheduled Zoom meeting like a ray of light. You can tell he’s every bit as happy-go-lucky as he seems, simply introducing himself in a lighthearted manner, “Hi, I’m Ashton!”
Of course I already know who he is…I’m interviewing him today for his single, “Straight To Your Heart”, and subsequently his new double album, Blood On The Drums, out July 17. Not only that, but he’s the drummer for the ultra-successful band, 5 Seconds of Summer, who has hits like “Youngblood” and “She Looks So Perfect”. I had seen 5SOS when they opened for One Direction at Hershey Park (yes, I was that lucky) and couldn’t help but share this with him.
Immediately, he remembers the scent of burnt cocoa wafting through the air that floats throughout Hershey Park thanks to the factory. He tells me I sent him back and laughs as he says, “Really crazy scent associations so thanks for that. Good times,” But, we aren’t here to reminisce…not really. We’re here to talk about his solo work, the new single, and much more. So we dive in.
“Straight To Your Heart” is heavy on the synth, reminiscent of the 80’s where dance pop and electronic music became heavily popular. Funnily enough, when I ask Ashton of the inspiration behind the song…he confirms this. He’s been listening to a lot of “moody 80s, new wave dance classics” from artists like Echo and the Bunnymen, INXS, and, of course, The Smiths.
But particularly, Ashton shouts out an Australian band, The Church, and their song “Under The Milky Way” that inspired the birth of his own, “Straight To Your Heart.” “Under The Milky Way” was the first song he learned how to play on the guitar, and when working with John Feldman, it helped lay the groundwork for the entirety of the album.
While many artists go for an overall “vibe” or sound throughout their albums, “Straight To Your Heart” isn’t indicative of the rest of Blood On The Drums. In fact, Ashton reveals to me that he doesn’t like to keep the same sound throughout. He tells me,
“I try not to make too many songs that sound like each other. Cause as a listener, I would get bored of that. So what I try to do these days is diversity and musical diversity is power, you know, like you need to look over your whole sphere of influence and get really creative with where you’re pulling from and try not to do the same thing over and over,”
That’s exactly what Blood of the Drums is. A symphony of different sounds, with Ashton singing, contributing to guitar, and drums. He’s brimming with talent, and this album is his most cohesive body of work to date. It’s like he’s taken all of the prowess over his already illustrious career and bundled it into an almost sonically perfect album.
Ashton IrwinRyan Fleming
Plus, working with longtime producer and collaborators like John Feldman and Matthew Pauling helped tremendously. But Ashton’s dedication to switching things up and pulling from different creative areas paid off. Blood On The Drums consists of two installments: The Thorns, out now, and The Roses, out July 17, that reflect two different stages of life we all go through.
From starting his career at around 18, Ashton shares that he stays inspired by pushing his limits. Whether it’s in the recording studio, or trying out new instruments, he’s not scared to dip his toes into new waters. But he’s also constantly traveling- he refers to his life as almost nomadic…bouncing from one place to another for touring, for living, for travel.
“I love to walk into the studio and feel like it’s a new day. It’s a different day. And I’m not anchored or attached to yesterday…or whatever I made yesterday is already done, you know? So I keep inspired that way by creating diverse albums.”
Conceptually, the two parts of the album are polar opposites. The Thorns is almost self-explanatory, a bit edgier and drum heavy. The Roses takes on a more folk sound, softer and more delicate than its counterpart. Again, something done totally on purpose thanks to Irwin.
“You know, there’s a lyric on my album in a song called “Wild Things” and it says ‘I know your thorns protect your roses’ and I guess the thorns are the things and the concepts that protect me from failing, or they protect me from being too hard on myself, or they protect me…They help me have resilience in this world, and they help me as a creator and an artist.”
I nod in agreement as he says this. The thorns in question are his defense mechanisms. To this, he wholeheartedly agrees with me. “Exactly.” He emphasizes. “The beautiful parts of ourselves need protecting. Not left unguarded.”
And it’s within these two parts that the album becomes whole. You need one to have the other, just like you have good days and bad. The topic of his seniority in the music industry resurfaces, how each time he creates music it gets harder to create something new, something that feels different. “Blood On The Drums is really a testimony to continuing to create.” He muses.
The albums cover a span of genres- effortlessly moving from pure rock and roll to dreamy art-pop tracks that get you dancing. Spanning heartbreak, love, loss, happiness, and more, Irwin pours his soul into both sides of Blood on the Drums. You can listen to The Thorns here:
The time goes by quickly, and soon enough I’m warning Ashton that we don’t have much time left. I finish up with his three essential songs from the album, a tougher question than I thought:
“Oh my gosh, okay, just, there’s so many but I’ll just give it to you like this: I think “Rebel at Heart”, “The Canyon”, “Breakup.””
Smiling from ear to ear is the only appropriate response when The Japanese House announces new music! Appropriately, the song is titled ‘:)’ or ‘smiley face,’ and it had us blushing the whole time. If you are seeking the best music to get you through the hot summer days with your boo thang, then The Japanese House has got you covered!
Image Source: Press Here Publicity
‘Smiley Face’
‘Smiley Face’ is a song I wrote when I was very excited about talking to someone off a dating app. She lived in Detroit, and I was fantasising about flying to meet her. I was in a session at the time for someone else’s stuff, but I couldn’t help this song spilling out of me, I was in some sort of frenzy. Turns out I did buy the plane tickets, now we’re engaged.
The Japanese House stated in a press release
We know what it’s like to be madly in love, so much so that you would travel the globe to see this person, no matter the cost. And it seems like Amber feels the same way. Sometimes being in love can make you a little delusional, and we love how she makes us feel unafraid to feel these feelings through her music.
Upon our first listen, we knew this was the perfect song for summer. It’s as easy and chill as all of The Japanese House’s other songs, but it also makes us get excited for the surprises that summer always brings year after year. We’re certainly adding “:)” to our summer playlists and probably our year-round 2024 playlists too!
On Tour
If you love The Japanese House, you can catch her out on tour right now with Maggie Rogers! We’ll be in the front row, so we hope to see some of our honeybees there too!
June 19 – Raleigh, NC @ Coastal Credit Union Music Park
June 20 – Charleston, SC @ Credit One Stadium
June 22 – Miami, FL @ FPL Solar Amphitheater at Bayfront Park
Shortly after, she’ll be headed out on her very own headline tour! We’ve already got tickets, have you?
June 21 – Orlando, FL @ The Beacham
July 26 – Philadelphia, PA @ Franklin Music Hall
July 27 – New York, NY @ The Rooftop at Pier 17
July 28 – McKees Rocks, PA @ Roxian Theatre
July 29 – Columbus, OH @ Newport Music Hall
July 31 – Chicago, IL @ Metro
August 6 – Boulder, CO @ Boulder Theater
August 7 – Salt Lake City, UT @ The Union
August 11 – Portland, OR @ Pioneer Courthouse Square
August 12 – Seattle, WA @ Woodland Park Zoo Amphitheater
August 15 – Los Angeles, CA @ Greek Theatre Co-Headline with Del Water Gap
September 24 – Toronto, ON @ Scotiabank Arena
Image Source: Carissa Gallo
What did you think of The Japanese House’s new song, ‘:)?’ Let us know all of your thoughts in the comments below or by finding us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter 🐝.
How are we halfway through June already? It actually seems illegal how fast the summer passes by, there’s so much I want to accomplish in no time whatsoever. But enough about me, the main point here is that we’re looking at the weekend once again.
Whether this was the best or worst week of your life, there’s one thing we can all agree on: music will help any situation. Yes, there’s a song out there that will make you forget about everything else in life while it’s playing…you just have to find it.
And you may be wondering: yeah, but why do you care? Well, dear reader, you’ve actually stumbled upon the place for new music released today. Every Friday, hundreds of new songs are released…and sure, you can comb through every New Music Friday playlist curated on your Spotify or Apple Music. But wouldn’t it be easier if one place made a playlist with the best-of-the-best on it?
Yes. It would. And that’s why we’re all here: I make a weekly playlist with the best new songs released so you don’t have to do all that aimless searching and listening on your own. It’s okay to be lazy when you’re listening to my Weekend Playlists!
This week, we have a bunch of fresh new tracks that can easily get you through the weekend. Without further ado, let’s get listening!
R3HAB, Don Diablo, NEEKA- “Disco Marathon”
Welcome back to the 70’s…because it’s a disco summer! The EDM/house world is fully leaning into the club disco track, which is why R3HAB, Don Diablo, and NEEKA teamed up for “Disco Marathon.” If you want a feel good track that gets you and your friends dancing, this is a great start to your playlist.
“Disco Marathon” is captivating from the very start- a sonic shift for both R3HAB and Don Diablo that blends their sounds perfectly.
Ashton Irwin- “Straight To Your Heart”
We recently got the chance to sit down with Ashton ahead of his sophomore solo album release, Blood on the Drums. After speaking a bit about “Straight To Your Heart” I learned that Ashton was really inspired by the bands of the 80’s who leaned heavily into synths. Now, as he releases the first part of Blood on the Drums, “Straight To Your Heart” is here for the world.
It’s a testament to his prowess as a songwriter and singer, a multi-instrumentalist who has years’ experience under his belt. “Straight To Your Heart” is pure fun all the way through.
Jelly Roll- “I Am Not Okay”
Just in time for Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, Jelly Roll releases “I Am Not Okay”- an introspective track about needing help but not wanting to talk about it. With lyrics like “I woke up today/I almost stayed in bed/Had the devil on my back”, it’s a prevalent reminder that although we all have our dark moments, have have to keep going.
Jelly Roll has been a longtime advocate for mental health awareness through his music, and his mission continues by spreading the word in “I Am Not Okay.”
Benjamin Ingrosso- “Look Who’s Laughing Now”
Benjamin Ingrosso’s vocal ability shines through in his new single, “Look Who’s Laughing Now.” The song almost was made for live performances, with big sounds building to a crescendo throughout the entire song. It’s an easy listen, both uplifting and confident all in one. Ingrosso says,
“Look who’s laughing now is about announcing to yourself and the world you can be whoever you want to be in all of your imperfections and still have the best time of your life and come out winning.”
Tove Lo, SG Lewis- “HEAT”
What makes a collaboration successful is the ability for both artists to blend their sounds in a way that makes sense, that makes people want to hear more from them. It doesn’t work every time, but with Tove Lo and SG Lewis, the four tracks that make their EP, HEAT, it works tremendously. The energy is palpable throughout each and every song, and you never want it to end.
The four tracks- title track “HEAT”, “Let me go OH OH”, “Busy Girl”, and “Desire”- are equally exciting across the board. They find a way to combine sex appeal with synths and bass, and then you add in Tove Lo’s crooning vocals and you have yourself a hit collection of songs.
It’s time for you to get to know Speelburg! In the latest of THP’s exclusive interviews, we chat with Speelburg, fresh off the release of his sophomore album, Silver Medal Slump. Speelburg is a multi-disciplinary artist who can do it all – make witty “weird pop,” direct music videos for your faves, and give you great movie recommendations. We simply have to stan!
His latest project, Silver Medal Slump, is the second album under the name Speelburg. Each song was slowly-but-surely released over the course of a year, and the album’s arc unpacks the nature of second place. Centering your ‘dreaded second album’ around the idea of second place is so witty, and that’s just Speelburg all over, TBH.
We were so excited to talk with Speelburg about Silver Medal Slump, his namesake, and so much more, in this exclusive interview. So we won’t keep you waiting any longer!
Image Source: Alex Boundy, via Sideways Media
Speelburg x THP Exclusive Interview
Congratulations on Silver Medal Slump! You released the songs over a long period of time, but how does it feel to have the whole body of work out there in the world now? What’s the response been like? Thanks! Yeah, the response has been great! It’s so nice to have the whole thing out there living in the world as a 10 song, 32 min unit. People have been super nice about it — I guess it would be pretty weird if they went out of their way to DM me and dunk on it, but luckily that hasn’t happened yet. Like, yeah, the whole thing came out over the course of a year, because honestly, that felt like the best way to do it for this record. The first one took a lot longer to complete and get out there so I really wanted to try the complete opposite of that. Take 10 songs, and as each one is finished, try and get it out there as quick as possible. You still have an eye on the eventual goal of the album as a whole, but it makes you write and commit a lot quicker.
You released music videos for so many of the tracks, and we love how they represent different facets of both the album and of you. What made you decide to go with this Silver Medal theme? Well, I like having an overall theme and aesthetic for the an album, even if it only ever makes sense to me. At some point while I was writing this album I started really getting into the idea of runners up, second place winners, sequels etc… and like, looking at a lot of sophomoric efforts and what it meant to put out a second album. In a lot of ways it’s a second album about making a second album, not necessarily in some huge Charlie Kauffman way. But not not either.
And how did you decide the order that you released the tracks? Was it as-and-when each song was ready to be heard? Yes and no. At first, I had a few finished songs and was like, “Well, if I start releasing the first single now, I’ll have to commit to releasing the whole album by this date.” So you look at the few finished songs and choose the first single, then you release the next one and you’re kind of doing it in a way that makes sense to you, and then you look at the list of 7 or 8 nearly finished songs and go “alright now I got a good view of what I need to get done.” As stressful as it was in the end, the process was a whole lot funner than sitting on a finished record for a year or more.
Your debut album, Porsche, came out in 2020. Did you feel any pressure to live up to the expectations that were set following the success of it? Though we’ll admit there’s a certain irony to this question given the concept of Silver Medal Slump! Well sure. Yeah, like you point out, there’s definitely some pressure but to be honest, there was a lot less on this one, mainly because I kept telling myself the debut needs to be out by this time, under these perfect conditions, and it needs to say this about me and blah blah blah. This is not to say this one has no intention, it totally knows what it’s trying to say. it’s just, it felt like when I finally had the first one out, I had suddenly paved an endless runway for myself. “I’ve done the first album, now I can just keep making more and none of them ever have to be the debut Speelburg album.” Does that make sense?
Totally! You freed yourself by getting that first one out. Exactly! It was probably mostly self-imposed pressure, and this is not to say each new album isn’t going to come with it’s own set of rules and anxieties, but it feels like having your first one out, people can really join along the way as you evolve and grow as a writer and producer.
You’ve referred to your work as “weird pop” before. How would you define that? I think it’s just a way to tell people I make pop that isn’t the first thing they think of when someone says pop. I think they think of something like Dua Lipa. But like, I’m going to the same well as them so there’s not that much distinction. Everyone’s doing everything these days and releasing it all as singles. Making singles is fun. You really get to experiment with all kinds of genres. At the end of the day, if it has your voice, or even just your name, people are down to listen.
It’s been said that you have a Wes Anderson-esque sense of humor in your music, which we totally agree with. So we have to ask: what’s your favorite Wes Anderson film? Oh that’s nice! Thanks. He’s rad. The thing I really like about directing that’s similar to music is that you’re constantly learning new things. You start a thing and then slowly it becomes another career and along the way you try and copy some shots, you try and come up with your own. Same with music genres. You hear a thing you love and you want to figure out how it’s made and how to make your own version of it. It’s really hard to pick a favorite, but I will say the one I really love that doesn’t seem to get as much love is The Darjeeling Limited. I’ve seen it dozens of times, and it’s just one of those movies that came along at a perfect time. Something about brothers fighting and talking over each other, the amazing Indian setting and a killer soundtrack. I just love it so much.
And dare we ask what your favorite Spielberg film is?! Catch Me If You Can. No, wait. Hook. I’m gonna say Hook. Just because, if you watch the featurette behind the scenes video, it really shows you everything that went into making the world seem so real. Hook rules.
You clearly have so much passion and talent in film-making, with your work for The National amongst others. How does your work in this space impact your music and vice versa? At this point I’d say they’re pretty knotted together. For my own personal work anyway, you can’t really have one without the other. I think about a lot of these songs visually, so video and music pretty much go hand in hand. But I really dig the commercial work. Anytime you get stuck on a song, you just say yes to a directing job and it just puts that track on ice for a couple weeks. You come back to music in such an excited way, and can figure out pretty quickly how to fix it. And people like The National and John Legend and their teams have been such great collaborators. You get a surprising amount of creative freedom which means you can experiment on such a larger scale. And again, you take a lot of those lessons in collaboration, speed and execution back to the music side. Like, I got to work on this video for the National that mixed video and animation and the turnaround was pretty quick, but the whole thing was so fun and I’ve ended up using a few of those tricks on other visual stuff for Speelburg, so it all kind of feeds into each other.
Are there any particular music artists out there that you’d love to direct in the future? Oh man, so so many. I’d really love to do some videos for Girl Ultra. She’s so so cool. I think I could do some pretty great stuff for Remi Wolf and Beck too…You know I’d really like to try to do more with choreography too. I directed this small video and ended up just shouting out dance moves behind the camera to these twoactors, and they were great, and the whole thing just came together, but I’m by no means a choreographer. I would just love to work with someone great who knows what they’re doing and take care of the rest. Then beyond that anyone from like Toro Y Moi, LCD, Phoenix, Tame Impala to like, The Weeknd and Ariana Grande would be such a dream. Really want to do as much of that stuff as I can over the next year while I finish up the next record so who knows!
We love that you split your time between LA and London (two of our fave cities), too! How do each of these places inspire you? Does the energy they have impact you in different ways? Oh totally! There’s some cool stuff coming out of the UK, and honestly feels completely different from what comes out of LA, and bringing weirder, more interesting references to your writing, especially in collaborations, is always better. The UK is always thriving when it comes to electronic music, and it’s developed a really great art rock scene in recent years with labels like Speedy Wunderground being a great way in for new acts. LA’s got the sun and it’s got the money and the studios but it’s also got some great gnarliness to it and that divide makes for great and interesting art. There’s also a really great community there, other transplants, like-minded musicians, a whole great scene that’s constantly evolving. I love them both. I’m happy in whatever place keeps me hearing new and interesting music and meeting new and interesting people.
We’re still basking in Silver Medal Slump, but we have to ask: What’s up next for you? Well, we’ll see if it can be done, but right now I’m starting to see the next record start coming to life. It might not have all the squishy organs yet, but the shell is forming. As for the commercial work, that’s a little harder to talk about before it’s all signed off, but I really feel like I’m only getting better with each project, and pretty stoked to share all of it. And beyond that, I’m super excited to get back on the road and tour the album. We’ll be doing some dates at the end of the summer and into the fall and I can’t wait to see what works! Records and commercial work aside, playing live is my favorite thing. I feel like I spoke a lot in this interview. Hopefully, it’s not too boring. I tried really hard to get really good at making this album as concise as it could. I’m not sure I can say the same about this interview.
Definitely not too much! Thanks so much to Speelburg for chatting with us for this interview!
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below, or tell us over on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
NEW YORK, June 10, 2024 (Newswire.com)
– Singer/songwriter Grace Pettis has released an optimistic single “Joy” from her forthcoming album, Down To The Letter (MPress Records). The song showcases Grace’s extensive vocal range, resulting in a beautiful delivery of her message. With “Joy” Grace has found a way to be positive after a heartbreaking divorce by appreciating the everyday things that we take for granted. Grace sings: “I got joy in a song I started to sing/Joy in the thought of everyday things//I got joy in the air, in and out of my lungs.” “Joy” premiered in Folk N Rock, who wrote: “‘Joy” is an amazing track from Grace that provides a sweet sound of solace and is a musical hug for your weary soul.“
Stream the single HERE Pre-order Down To The LetterHERE
Produced by Mary Bragg (Natalie Price), mixed by Jon Estes (Robyn Hitchcock, Dolly Parton), and mastered by John McLaggan of Parachute Mastering (Laynah, Ryan McMahon), the full album Down To The Letter and the single “Joy” contains deeply personal material, chronicling the end of a marriage and the reclamation of self after betrayal, codependency, and loss with heartbreaking detail. The lyrics deftly toe the line between personal pain and universal catharsis. It also marks the second collaboration for Pettis and Bragg.
Grace discusses the song, saying: “‘Joy” was a kind of pep talk to myself; a reminder of all the beauty in my life. It can be hard to access gratitude when I’m down. But I try to remember that I’m extremely lucky to be alive and breathing and doing what I was put on the planet to do: to sing, write, and play. I’m not always able to get there, mentally. But when I can, I tap into a powerful fuel source. Sometimes joy is easy. On a beautiful day when the weather is good, or on a holiday, surrounded by loved ones, it’s not difficult to feel joyful. On the days that I do my job well and am compensated well, I can tap into a sense of purpose and contentment pretty easily.”
Grounded by Pettis’ vocals and acoustic guitar along with notable contributions from Bragg on acoustic guitar, Down To The Letter also features Josh Kaler (Francis Cone, Heather Nova) on pedal steel, acoustic, and electric guitars with Owen Biddle and Jordan Perlson on electric bass and drums (respectively). Musician/producer Jon Estes (Robyn Hitchcock, Rodney Crowell) contributed upright bass, cello, piano, and B-3 and Will Hawley added horns to “Joy.” With final overdubs at Bragg’s own project studio, they were able to achieve both the aching intimacy of ballads such as “Horses” and “Sobering Up,” and the other candid tracks like “Rain” and “I Didn’t Break This.” The record features backing vocals from Robby Hecht and Emily Scott Robinson.
We’re all in the same spot: working all week, wondering if the weekend will ever present itself, and dreaming of the possibilities of a day or two without work. You spend all week making plans with friends and family, and now that Summer Fridays have begun…the world is your oyster.
Summer is the best time not only because the weather’s finally warm enough that you can tolerate the outdoors…but it’s one of the hottest times for new music. Live performances are abundant, your favorite artists are all in contention for Song of the Summer.
With Gov Ball happening this weekend, I couldn’t be more excited to listen to some new tracks…especially since I’ll be hearing some of them being performed live for the first time. Whether you’re preparing for a weekend filled with fun with your friends, or live in the NYC area and are one of the thousands attending Gov Ball, you need a good playlist to get you ready.
And that’s where I come in. If you’re new here, I make a Weekend Playlist filled with fresh releases hot off the press. It’s the best-of-the-best, so you don’t have to comb through every New Music playlist and search excessively for actual good music released this week.
Since I have you all excited now, there’s no more time to waste. Let’s get listening!
Sabrina Carpenter- “Please, Please, Please”
Oh, Sabrina Carpenter, how you amaze me. With the announcement of her new album, Short ‘N Sweet, coming August 23 and hot off the success of viral hit “Espresso”…you’d think she’d rest. But no, we’re here with another certified banger: “Please, Please, Please.”
In the song, Carpenter begs for her lover not to make her cry when her makeup looks so nice. It’s a struggle we’ve all experienced…but of course, Sabrina conveys another message with the song: she’s the next Big Thing in pop music, ushering in the new era of popstars that we so desperately needed.
Dom Dolla- girl$
Dom Dolla is one of the hottest DJ’s in house music right now. He’s fresh off a few massive Coachella performances, where he played for the likes of Ice Spice, Taylor Swift, and Travis Kelce. His breakout year – 2023 – gave us singles like “Saving Up” and “Eat Your Man (with Nelly Furtado).” And he’s not slowing down any time soon.
No, Dom Dolla is not even close to reaching the height of his illustrious career…but “girl$” is just another stepping stone to becoming one of the top DJ’s in the world. Fun, sexy, and just enough bass, this house track will be a staple for any pregame playlist of yours.
ASHRR- “Different Kind Of Life”
Supergroup ASHRR delivers a groovy, vibe-heavy song questioning why we’re all searching for some different sort of life…when we’re living the one we’ve got? It’s a message for us to stop looking to others for happiness when we have all the tools on our own.
“DKOL is about the expression of samsara, the cycle of never being pleased with what you have, but always wanting more or something else. When we went to write this song which started out with the bass line and polyrhythmic drums, we eventually mixed up our love of Afrobeat rhythms from the late 70’s with the post -punk soul dance floor anthems that Frankie Knuckles would be playing at Paradise Garage on a Saturday night.” -ASHRR
Glass Animals- “A Tear In Space (Airlock)”
An exploration into the mind and soul lead band member, Dave Bayley, Glass Animals’ newest single is both introspective and otherworldly. Certainly a risk, “A Tear In Space (Airlock)” is unlike your usual Glass Animals sound…however, it works because that’s completely the point.
Writing and producing their next album after having a breakdown over their newfound success following “Heat Waves”, “A Tear In Space (Airlock)” shows an ethereal side to their music we’ve never seen before.
SALEKA- “RELEASE”
SALEKA is quite literally a triple threat. She’s starring in the upcoming M. Night Shyamalan’s newest film, TRAP, a concert thriller following a girl and her father’s nightmare concert experience. Not only that, but she’s releasing a song, “RELEASE”, that’s being featured in the film as well.
The song is brooding and powerful, a piano-driven ballad that builds with suspense and crescendos into SALEKA’s powerful vibrato.
ROSIE- “Rock Bottom”
ROSIE’s music is always empowering in some way- whether that be through lyrics emphasizing self love or moving vocals that make you want to replay her songs over and over. Now, with “Rock Bottom”, she shares a point in her life where she felt like she wasn’t going to make it through…but this song is a reminder that there’s light. She says,
“‘Rock Bottom,’ explains why I am the person I am today. I’ve overcome many hardships over the years, from grieving the loss of a dear friend, to battling anxiety and depression, and this record recounts it all. More than anything, this song is about finding light within the darkness or as I say in the song, realizing that ‘nothing looks bad when you’ve seen rock bottom.’”
WASHINGTON, June 7, 2024 (Newswire.com)
– The bright summer music season begins with the release of Ed Gumbrecht’s highly anticipated third studio album, ‘Any Given Day’. Available today on all major streaming platforms, the record marks a significant milestone in Ed’s musical journey, showcasing his evolution as an artist and solidifying his place in the music industry.
‘Any Given Day’ is a testament to dedication and craft, featuring a diverse array of tracks that blend clever lyrics with engaging melodies in elevated singer-songwriter style. The album explores themes of everyday life, intimacy, and the beauty found in the mundane moments that make up our lives. With its rich soundscapes and poignant storytelling, ‘Any Given Day’ is set to resonate deeply with listeners around the globe.
“My collaborators and I are practicing a style of music-craft that tells stories and entertains sonically and lyrically. It’s fun. Our songs tend to evoke ideas and strong feelings. We are tapping into something essential, and so our music keeps flowing all around the world,” says Ed Gumbrecht about his new release.
Ed Gumbrecht’s music has garnered two million streams worldwide, and ‘Any Given Day’ is expected to continue the trend, captivating both long-time fans and new listeners alike. Known for his unique sound and lyrical depth, Ed pushes the boundaries of the singer/songwriter genre, and this latest release is no exception.
The album features standout tracks such as ‘Cup of Joe,’ ‘Waking Song,’ and ‘Still Life’ each offering a unique perspective and showcasing Ed’s versatility. The vibe swings from acoustic rock to country and western, always with a fresh and original flair. Collaborating with talented musicians, Eric Michael Lichter, Eli Novicky and Guido Falvene, Ed has crafted an album that is both sonically rich and emotionally resonant. Lichter produced the album at Dirt Floor Studios in Connecticut. He says, “’Any Given Day’ is the third record Ed and I have made together, and it’s our best work together yet. Every song is sure to stay in your head, as they are still all running around in mine! This is a perfect summer album.”
Fans can listen to ‘Any Given Day’ on their preferred streaming platform starting June 7th. To stay updated on Ed’s latest news and upcoming live performances, visit www.edgumbrecht.com and follow him on social media.
For media inquiries, please contact: media@edggumbrecht.com
About Ed Gumbrecht
Ed Gumbrecht is a singer, composer, musician and writer with a growing global fanbase. His previous releases have been celebrated for their originality and emotional depth, earning him critical acclaim and a dedicated following. With ‘Any Given Day,’ Ed continues to explore new musical territories while staying true to the heartfelt authenticity that defines his work.
Electronic pop just got a whole lot more interesting. A new duo has emerged on the scene, slowly but surely taking over our playlists. Magdalena Bay is the love child of Mica Tenenbaum and Matthew Lewin who create music for those of us wanting to escape reality. If you’re a fan of Blu DeTiger (which we definitely are), then you probably already know Magdalena Bay’s sound as they are featured on Blu’s hit track, ‘Disappearing.’ Picture what music would sound like on Mars or Jupiter, produced by bug-eyed aliens floating on zero gravity. That’s exactly what this duo is giving you. 👽
Image Source: Lissyelle Laricchia
So now that we’ve introduced them, we have to rant about their new song, ‘Death & Romance.’ The title of the song immediately caught our eye, so we had to hit play. Right off the bat, we’re transported to another dimension. It’s giving funk-wave-pop dance music, and we are here for every moment!
“Imagine rain pouring, streetlights glowing,” the band says. “You sit at home and wait for your alien boyfriend to pick you up in his UFO…but this time, he’s not coming.”
Magdalena Bay stated in a press release
Check out the visualizer and hear the song for yourself below 👇
Did you enjoy ‘Death & Romance?’ What was your favorite lyric? Let us know in the comments or by hitting us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram 🐝
TW: This article contains mentions of sexual assault.
A few months ago, I sat with Becky Hill backstage before her sold-out Brooklyn Steele performance. As we chatted about her collaborations and the struggle of being taken seriously as a solo artist, I could feel Hill’s passion. She’s an artist who takes her craft very seriously, someone who’s both humble and fiery all at once, with a voice that can bring an entire room together.
Now, as I sit listening to Becky’s album a month before it’s released into the world for the critics and fans to pick apart and devour, I remember her desire to create real drum and bass music. I remember her promises of a record in the works, but I had no idea that it would be so powerful. The new album in question, Believe Me Now?, is a perfect summation of Becky Hill’s already illustrious career.
Sure, she was discovered on season one of The Voice UK, but she’s also the only Voice contestant to score a #1 UK single. Despite mega-hit features on essential chart-topping house tracks like “Crazy What Love Can Do” with David Guetta, “Lose Control” with MEDUZA and Goodboys, “Gecko (Overdrive)” with Oliver Heldens, and “HISTORY” with Joel Corry…Becky Hill’s voice has been the main event- deserving of shining on its own, and not just because a male DJ is attached to the track.
Which brings us to now: the release of her third and resoundingly best album, Believe Me Now? The album pushes boundaries: intertwining her classic, beloved drum-and-bass style with powerful ballads, sprinkling in her classic dance club roots with honest, vulnerable lyricism. It’s a sign of maturity and growth as a vocalist that Hill digs so deep within her songs, reflecting on heartache, love, and all the struggles she’s endured throughout her life.
Songs like “Swim” will be instant favorites for those who love Becky’s classic upbeat dance moments…but songs like “True Colours” give us a glimpse into a darker time where Hill details her experience with being sexually assaulted and her healing process.
Believe Me Now? proves that Becky Hill indeed is a voice of our generation. She’s left it all on the table, showing her real self with no holding back, no bull…just Becky. The album rips her away from “The Voice contestant” or “feature artist” and into a realm of her own: one where we know who the real Becky Hill is and her music alone is what matters.
And 2024 just may be her year: with the new album coming out May 31 and a US tour looming in November…we’re ready to see what else Becky Hill has in store. It feels like she has it all figured out in terms of who she wants to be as an artist and who she is as a woman…which is why Believe Me Now? is an instantaneous classic. You can listen to the album here:
Ahead of Becky Hill’s album release, I spoke to her about the real Becky Hill, dealing with her trauma, and more. Check it out below!
PD: The title of the album, Believe Me Now?, seems to serve the message that you’re not messing around, you’re the real deal. Do you think your voice has finally been heard? Is this album the real Becky Hill?
BH: Ah thank you so much! so lovely to speak to you guys again & I’m so glad you like the album!! This album has definitely felt like the coming of age of a lost girl that’s grown into a woman! I feel the most collected & comfortable in my own skin, like the hard work I’ve put into my career is finally starting to pay off & this album really reflects where I am in my life!
PD: From starting on The Voice to now, what have you learned about yourself as an artist and a songwriter?
BH: I guess before The Voice I was used to writing songs on my own in my bedroom & when I joined the music industry I started writing with other people. When lockdown happened I wasn’t sure if I could even write songs on my own anymore but I absolutely could. I wrote a couple of drum & bass songs on my own (“Hold On” – Netsky & “Here For You” – Wilkinson) & when starting this next album I wasn’t sure if I still had things to say, but I definitely did, they just grew with me. This album showed me how lonely I’ve been feeling & actually, on the business side of things, how determined I am to continue & build on the success I’ve had so far.
PD: The track “True Colours” written with Lauren Aquilina is about your experiences with sexual assault. I know it can be difficult to open up about traumatic experiences in your music, but what made you do it with Believe Me Now?
BH: I had taken all the steps of healing that I needed. I confronted the rapist, told my old friends, reported it to the police, had my old friends validate & apologize to me & now release a song about it. It’s felt like the final piece to the puzzle, being able to talk about something I used to feel so much pain & shame around & now to have released all that & show the world there was never anything for me to feel ashamed of in the first place has been so powerful. I spoke to my therapist about it last week, I guess I didn’t realize how much it had affected me speaking about it, she called it ‘the shame hangover’ & promised me that this was going to help others. “Self Esteem” is on the record too who has been dealing & talking about her experiences of sexual assault for a while now, so it’s been incredibly useful to have another artist to guide me through publicly speaking about such a sensitive subject.
PD: These feel like some of your most emotionally vulnerable records…and yet you balance them perfectly with dance and house elements. Growing up in the dance community, what about it inspired your career?
BH: Thanks!! That’s exactly the angle I was trying to create when making this album! It was the stories that my brother would tell of going to raves & having the best nights. The emotions I would feel that I didn’t know I had at such a young age that dance music would give me. The community of friends I had that were all so passionate about new releases on labels & artists & festivals. I loved all of it. It felt at its most prolific at the time I was discovering myself & my own taste in music. Dance has really changed my life, soundtracked it & taught me so much
PD: This album showcases Becky Hill alone, not just who you can be on a collaboration. What was important to you while making this album and creating more solo work?
BH: I guess I’ve always had different battles. Being a contestant on The Voice, or being a feature artist or not being able to release a song without having a feature on my record. I wanted to create a fully deep rooted dance pop album that showed I didn’t need anyone else featuring, that I could be a dance artist in my own right & that us girls can do it just as well, if not better than the boys!
PD: Your headline tour starts in June. What are you most looking forward to?
BH: Playing the new stuff!! I’m so glad I get to go out with new singles that people may not have heard already & show them the new stuff! The best part is seeing streams go up after gigs which shows that people want to listen back at home too, such a great feeling & I can’t wait to see everybody having a great time, that’s what my summers all about!
I know I always say this…but I’m particularly excited for this weekend. No, it’s not because the weather has been so beautiful that I don’t want to sit inside on my laptop (although that’s true). It’s because we’re approaching Memorial Day Weekend- and for me, a New Jerseyan, that means going to the beach.
No matter if you have family parties, plans with your friends, or aspire to sprawl on the sand this weekend…we all need one thing, and that’s a killer playlist to be the soundtrack for our plans. You’ve probably spent the week participating in the streaming war between Billie Eilish (HIT ME HARD AND SOFT) and Taylor Swift (THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT ANTHOLOGY), but we all know there’s always room for new music.
And that’s where I come in, dear reader. If you’re new here, I create a weekly playlist to get you ready for your weekend and make you look cool to your friends. You’ll never be in need of new tunes while I’m around. And since it’s a special long weekend, I have a special lengthy playlist for you!
Now that we’re all on the edge of our seats…let’s get listening!!
Louis The Child x Madeon – “Believe It”
Everyone knows you need a classic house song to start your summer off right and that’s what “Believe It” is. A dynamic track that starts off strong and somehow builds throughout its entirety, “Believe It” will get your friends up and dancing immediately. But this is no surprise when the collab is coming from two seasoned veterans like Madeon and Louis The Child.
Vincent Mason – “Really Don’t Love Me”
Country artist Vincent Mason has released his EP, Can’t Just Be Me, alongside single “Really Don’t Love Me” today. With a plethora of instruments from guitar to harmonica to a background drumbeat, this symphony perfectly complements Mason’s crooning tone. He’s the next big thing in the country world, and “Really Don’t Love Me” spins the tale of an ex who revealed their true colors into a hit track.
Empire Of The Sun – Music On The Radio
With their new album, Ask That God, coming out July 26, Empire of the Sun is preparing to release their first album in eight years. “Music On The Radio” reminds us that Empire of the Sun has not missed a beat- creating an ethereal disco-esque track that is perfectly timed for summer. It’s light, catchy, and refreshing, indicating a new era of the duo who seem to get it right every single time.
“To me this song is like a teenager rebelling against his imaginary emotions. It’s penned in only that unique way Lord Littlemore can bring words to life. The bass wraps it’s arms around you in some kind of hypnotic groove and you’re powerless to its charms” says band member Luke Steele
Jeremy Zucker, Lauv, Alexander 23 – “Cozy”
Jeremy Zucker, Lauv, Alexander 23 create a perfect blend of their smooth vocals with “Cozy.” Their voices and styles are ideal for this collaboration that truly makes you feel cozy when you’re listening to it. It’s an Avengers-style collab for indie fans and music fans alike.
“When Jeremy, Alexander and I went into the studio to make a song, I knew we had to create something super fire. I’m so excited you guys can hear it now too. I feel like our fans have waited for us to collaborate for so long, and I truly just love these boys and think they’re so talented, so it’s an honor to make a song with them.” says Lauv.
Dax- “A Real Man”
Dax has the power to seamlessly glide from genre to genre within one song and it creates a hit. “A Real Man” ebbs and flows between country, R&B, and hip-hop without missing a beat. It’s introspective and creative, telling the story of a woman wanting a “real man” in a relationship…but never quite living up to it.
“The worst place I’ve ever been trapped was in the cage of someone’s expectations that I couldn’t live up to. The constant feeling of being unappreciated is a hammer that will beat the love out of your heart until you have none left to give.” – Dax
Sabrina Sterling – “Soon”
Sabrina Sterling’s soft cadence is reminiscent of favorites like Billie Eilish or Phoebe Bridgers…but she creates a song entirely her own with “Soon.” Her voice shines through as she sings this heartbreaking ballad about how she’s afraid her partner is leaving sooner than she wants. It’s both nostalgic and heart wrenching, but incredibly beautiful nonetheless.
Mont Duamel- “Imagine”
“Imagine” transports you into a different realm of music- with layered vocals and an instrumental backing that just makes sense…this song will be perfect for your long drives with the windows down, or maybe even when you’re lounging on the beach with your friends. Mont Duamel creates an adventurous track with meticulous production that is evident as you listen.
“I feel like this new body of music I’ve been making feels human and organic but also is getting pushed into a more otherworldly, personal, intimate kind of place.” Mont says.
If there’s one thing about us at The Honey POP, it’s that we stan Capstan. They dropped the first single, ‘Bête Noire,’ in October of last year. Since then, they’ve followed with six more bangers, the most recent being ‘What You Want’ featuring Oliver Baxxter of Broadside. If you didn’t know, the band also self-produced, engineered, and recorded their new album, which makes it even more impressive. The Mosaic‘s 18 tracks truly showcase Capstan’s talent and versatility while remaining cohesive and staying true to the album’s theme of the complexities of life — making it a strong contender for AOTY. With that being said, here are our favorite lyrics from The Mosaic.
‘I. Revolve’
“Collecting dust inside an old empty shell Will better days still know me? Absent of the hurting Cast my gaze inside me”
‘Final Words’
“Every night reciting these words of grief Though time has altered their meaning Let it resonate with anyone who feels the same I can’t revel on, I have to turn the page”
‘Undertow’
“Focused on my failures (hidden deep) Hammering the nails (wanna break free) Craft my own casket with miseries past When can I break free? Be who you see in me“
‘An Open Letter’
“I was a storm when I was younger and if I lost you in the flood, I hope this apology serves as enough”
‘Hailey’
“I was wrong to embrace the idea that I can’t ever change As we grow, everyday You’re the true north, still guiding my way“
‘II. Revise’
“So I’ll love on, cherish this glow Find a place to grow, start to let it go Restitch my tapestry, erase the misery scene“
‘Dwell’
“I hear the memories echoing If they could hear me I’d be whispering Stay present in every second, each moment Soon you’d give it all to do it all over“
‘Moloch’
“See yourself as a hero? Ignoring all the failures of your ideology to protect the ones who’re most desperate”
‘What Can I Say?’
“You broke the cage, the one that held me for so long And kept me writing heartbreak songs You brought my heart a joy I can’t convey“
‘III. The Mosaic’
“…hate only stems from the loss of the only thing we ever really need at all, our glimpse of each other so very small, a monocolored fragment of an endless vibrant sprawl.”
Capstan told us in our exclusive interview with them that it’s their favorite lyric from the album, and we absolutely have to agree. Yes, it’s 10 minutes and 3 seconds. But this song has so much beauty, and it’s the best way to end an album. You have to listen to the entire song.
So, what do you think of Capstan’s new album, The Mosaic? And what are your favorite lyrics? Let us know in the comments, on Facebook, Instagram, or by tweeting us @thehoneypop!
Who else’s guilty pleasure is watching reality vocal competition shows on their weeknights? We know it’s not just us, and you know what? We take it back. It doesn’t have to be a guilty pleasure at all. Singing competitions like American Idol and The Voice have produced some incredible artists. And if you’ve ever wondered what artists like Gina Miles and Emmy Russell get up to after their shows, we have six names to discuss with you right here, right now. So don’t go anywhere!
Gina Miles – ‘Wicked Game’
The Voice’s Season 23 winner, Gina Miles, stunned weekly with her powerful voice. And she’s just getting started. If you’re not new to the Gina Miles phenomenon, you’d remember when she sang ‘Wicked Game’ on The Voice on Team Niall. And you might even remember this performance as the moment we all realized just how much potential Gina has. The dark presentation and the strength of Gina’s vocals made for a hauntingly beautiful performance. One that made us want to come back and listen repeatedly. And now we can! Not only can we listen, but we can also watch her equally striking video. Everyone else, watch out; it’s Gina’s time to shine.
Jack Blocker – ‘All Of Yours (To Give All Of Mine)’
American Idol Season 22 Finalist Jack Blocker is celebrating his third-place finish with a new single. This folk/country tune is a love letter to his wife, and we can feel the love in this one. The simplicity of the music video really drives the message of the song. This is all for his wife, and nothing will take attention away from that. That’s so sweet. We can’t help but root for everything Jack does from here. And the first thing you can do to make sure he gets the love he deserves is listen to ‘All Of Yours (To Give All Of Mine)!’
Triston Harper is another finalist from the latest season of American Idol, and these finalists are not playing around. With ‘H.O.P.E.,’ it’s impossible for us to believe that Triston is 15 years old. The maturity in his voice is not lost on this bluesy track. The lyrics are inspiring to anyone trying to make it anywhere. Triston is proof that you should not give up on your dreams. Anyone can make it! And like the other finalists on this list, we really believe big things are coming for Triston.
The Voice alum Dez Duron is a must-list for fans of jazz. This being Dez’s first original song, we finally see his unique style. We, of course, got a taste of it in his performances on The Voice, and we would expect nothing less than the soulful ring of ‘Let’s Just Call It Love.’ Things are really working out for Dez Duran this year, as he’s also set to make his Broadway debut. Given this versatility, we can’t wait to see everything Dez is working on!
Tying with Triston Harper on the latest season of American Idol, Emmy Russell is here to make her mark as well. Emmy’s beautifully delicate voice sings all about self-love. And if you know anything about us, you know we could never get enough songs about self-love. For those of you who keep going back to an ex who no longer deserves it, we beg you to listen to ‘Redemption.’
Now we have the second-place finisher on the latest season of American Idol. If you’ve noticed, this season’s finalists are not letting us rest. And that’s exactly the way we want it. Because if you love country music, you’d recognize how deserving of his placement Will Moseley was. Even if you don’t love country music, ‘Good Book Bad’ is such a strong song, and you must see his potential. His raspy drawl just scratches an itch in our brains, making him impossible to stop listening to.
And there you have it! Six reality competition singers that we know will be huge names soon. And lucky you, you can listen to them all right now! Do you have a favorite? Or another reality favorite that we forgot? Let us know in the comments or by finding us at @thehoneypop on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
Pride month is right around the corner, but it’s never too early to celebrate! Heather Mae gives us the queer anthem of the season with her new single, ‘kissing girls.’ It is all about learning to love (and learning to love yourself). ‘kissing girls’ is fun, raw, and intimate.
‘kissing girls’
Showcasing a variety of relationships and symbolizing love does, in fact, come in all shapes and sizes, the music video for ‘kissing girls’ is simple in all the right ways! After all, love is already complicated. Why add to it? We’re obsessed with the makeshift photo booth, impromptu dance party, and home movie-esque shots. It makes us feel like we’re right there with her, giving this personal song that extra personal touch.
Growing up in church and the Evangelical movement, the only representation of LGBTQ+ people that I was familiar with were the kids who got kicked out for being queer. Even though my first crush was on a girl, I hid the truth of what that meant to protect myself from losing my entire community. This is why visibility is profoundly important to me
Heather Mae
In ‘kissing girls,’ Heather doesn’t just show off her vocals but also her incredible songwriting ability. A captivating story from beginning to end, she shares her own path and experiences beautifully. From whimsical lyrics about playing as children and sleeping over after softball games to exploring why she felt the need to hide herself, Heather Mae takes you on a journey. She may have been kissing girls as long as she’s been kissing boys, but this song isn’t just for the bisexuals. ‘kissing girls’ is a song for everyone!
‘kissing girls’ celebrates not only queer joy but also pays a heartfelt tribute to the transgender community—highlighting the journey of transitioning and the steadfast love of supportive partners.
A bisexual love song for people who have loved or been loved by someone who was transgender. We deserve to hear our love songs on the radio, too.
Heather Mae
‘kissing girls’ is a warm hug of heartfelt lyrics and catchy melodies you’ll want to listen to over and over again. We guarantee each time you do, you’ll find something new to love. We know we have!
What do you think about ‘kissing girls’ by Heather Mae? Show some love in the comments, or find us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @thehoneypop! Connect with other music fans just like you and join us on our Discord.
