Category: Pop

Words By Joey Rochert.

Hello, Cathy, Let’s talk about your new single, ‘Distorted Heart’, what is the meaning? 

Hi, yes so DH is basically about heartbreak/about a bad breakup. The pain of a relationship ending that you put so much time, emotion & effort in is truly heart wrenching especially when your efforts fall flat & unappreciated. It’s really about the pain of feeling like you have tried everything & yet it wasn’t enough & that hurts especially when all you want is undying & everlasting love.

Which artists in the current industry inspire you the most?

To be quite honest, nobody. 

What is the best thing about being a musician in 2023?

1. Social Media. I have to say that Social Media is truly a great thing. I can promote myself & create my promotional content myself. I can control how my roll out is going to be & what I wanna share first & last. Social Media truly is good for promotional purposes & for your fans to connect with you on a more personal level.

2. You don’t necessarily have to wait to be discovered. You can just post a cover on youtube or scrap a couple 100$ together for a demo & release it yourself with a distribution website, it’s very easy, though a bit confusing in the beginning. A lot of things that were quite out of reach a few years ago are so accessible now a days which is amazing. You’re basically in control of what you do & not somebody else.

Is there a certain place you often go to write? E.g a certain room, or environment?

Well, I’d say I just go to my bedroom to write songs but I have also written some songs in the living room. I’d also say that I need some kind of quietness but sometimes some background music makes me feel more creative. There’s truly not that much that I need in order to write a song.

What is your first memory of music? 

My first music memory. I’m not quite sure or I am, I don’t know how to say it. I can say that the first probably was Michael Jackson because my parents had some DVD of his music videos & we would put it in the DVD player so that we could watch it & it had a bunch of old towards new-ish music/videos on it. But then again it feels like at the same time or as far as I can remember I was also very mesmerized by Hannah Montana & the High School Musical series.

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Photo Credit: Cathy Mpaka.

Words By Sam Wetherby.

Francesca Luker’s latest single, ‘Promise Land,’ is now available to stream online. Luker outperforms all expectations here; we were anticipating a respectable performance, but she excels admirably. Moreover, her ability is readily comparable to that of Remi Wolf and Rapsody.

For me, ‘Promise Land’ is more than just a groovy pop song; it has a powerful narrative about finding yourself in a perilous circumstance and knowing that you have someone there to provide a helping hand. It has a powerful impact on me, and I love it! Check it out below.

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Words By Joey Rochert.

Hello, Francesca, Let’s talk about your new single, ‘Promise Land’, what is the meaning? 

I wrote Promise Land in 2020, after a very dark time in my life transitioned into one of the happiest summers of my life. I had just met an amazing new band who helped this song blossom into the lively track it is today. They have since grown to be some of my best friends, so this song represents the beginning of an important era for me.

Promise Land encapsulates the very true cliche that hard times do always come to an end. I wrote the lyrics about adopting a half-glass-full attitude to life, embracing change and making positive steps towards my future- The idea that every small challenge you throw yourself into can lead you in the right direction.

Which artists in the current industry inspire you the most?

I’m inspired by many artists, but my all time favourite is Lana Del Rey. Album after album I continue to adore everything she releases, even though her music has evolved drastically from some of her earlier stuff. For me I love that her albums tell a story- her songs are raw, personal and true reflections of how she’s feeling at the time. She doesn’t write to please her audience or to have a chart topper, she writes whatever the hell she wants, which can vary from nine minute long songs to new melodic and lyrical material that sounds nothing like any other artist. But whatever she writes, I always enjoy her mellow, enchanting sound as a refreshing contrast from the other mostly upbeat music I listen to.

What is the best thing about being a musician in 2023?

The best thing about being a musician in 2023 is how easy it is to access advanced music technology. Being able to use programs such as logic, takes my songwriting to a whole new level. Instead of just having piano and vocals to write with, I have a whole library of drum loops, midi instruments and synths to work with. For example, without even playing bass, a lot of the songs I’ve written started off with bass-lines- Promise Land included. Using Logic, my guitarist and I were able to record the whole song from home without even going to a recording studio.

Is there a certain place you often go to write? E.g a certain room, or environment?

I usually write music in my room, because this is where my keyboard and recording equipment is. But song ideas can come to me absolutely anytime, anywhere- I could be walking around in public, at uni or in the shower- So I just have to record a voice memo to save for later so I can create a song from it next time I’m writing in my room!

What is your first memory of music? 

My earliest memories of music are of my dad playing artists like Lauryn Hill, Ella Fitzgerald, Joni Mitchell and Sia around the house. Growing up I was exposed to an eclectic range of genres, especially Neo-soul, jazz and funk- all of which had a massive impact on how I learned to sing, because I developed a love for these genres and began mimicking their style of vocals. As a kid I was basically just singing all the time- so music has always been a big part of my life.

Francesca Luker on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/francescaluker

https://www.facebook.com/francescalukermusic

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Photo Credit: Francesca Luker.

Words By Sam Wetherby.

Music fan? Have you heard Cathy Mpaka’s hot new release, ‘Distorted Heart’? It’s the freshest thing to hit the music scene this last week! Also, with those European dance vibes, it’s impossible not to vibe with it.

And let’s talk about Cathy’s vocals – they are on point, no doubt! ‘Distorted Heart’ is an absolute bop, perfect for your party playlist and you will be eager to listen to more the second it concludes.

You can check it out below.

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Words By Joey Rochert.

Welcome back, Thomas! We’re thrilled to have you here, and we’re eager to learn more about your new single, ‘Up In Smoke.’ Could you provide our readers with a glimpse of what they can expect before delving into the track? 

💛 Yes, absolutely! Thank you so much for having me. ‘Up In Smoke’ is my ninth studio single of my upcoming debut album, ‘Late To Bloom’. It’s a dance track that I like to call the sexy song on the album, and it kind of speaks to all the things that try to distract us and throw us off course; such as sex, drugs, temptation in whatever form… in it, I say “my good intentions up in smoke / your sweet sativa has a hold / my good intentions up in smoke / not gonna lose control / not gonna take you home.” So it’s kind of an internal battle as to where to draw the line, because, let me tell ya, actions have consequences. The lyrics and music video tell a story about being approached by someone at a bar, while being in a relationship, and how to kind of manoeuvre that situation. 

Your growth as an artist has been evident in the progression of your previous releases. It’s clear that you’re evolving and becoming more influential with each new release. What fuels your inspiration to consistently produce such captivating music?

💛 Thank you very much! I like to think with each song release, I’m getting better and stronger at what I do. It’s very much a learning process and you learn through trial and error what works and what doesn’t. Unfortunately, I’m a virgo, and a perfectionist as a result, so it’s important to me to put out captivating art that engages the audience. 

Collaborating with Rudy Bundini for the official video must have been an exciting experience. How did that collaboration came about? 

💛 Oh, Rudy and I go way back! Maybe eight years ago, we met modeling and walking the runway for all kinds of New York designers. The great thing about social media is it keeps everyone close in a way. Even though all that time had passed, when I was imagining the concept for the video, I immediately saw him as my co-star, so I reached out and he said yes!

As we approach the midsummer of 2023, we’re curious to know what standout moments or experiences have been the highlight of your summer so far?

💛 Honestly, rehearsing for, and filming the ‘Up In Smoke’ music video was a real stand out moment this summer. It was my first time having choreography and professional dancers in a video, so it took a lot of work, and seeing it come to life was really special. Other than that, I saw Ava Max on tour…finally, last month. She’s been a huge inspiration for my music and finally being able to see her live, after covid screwed up her last tour, was really really a highlight of my year! I’m taking my husband to the South of France to celebrate his birthday next month, so that’s something super exciting, still, to look forward to! Maybe it’ll inspire a song on the next album…who knows?!

With the release of your latest single, ‘Up In Smoke,’ in the spotlight, can you hint at any plans you have in store for more releases this year?

💛 Well I thought you’d never ask! YES! My debut album, ‘Late To Bloom,’ is set to release on September 29th. It has 11 dance tracks, all produced by the brilliant LA producer, Electropoint. You can preorder it on vinyl, as well as the digital versions, now. Head to my website www.iamthomascole.com for more info. You may be getting a surprise or two before then as well, so stay tuned!

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Photo Credit: Thomas Cole.

Words By Joey Rochert.

Hello, Marsha, Let’s talk about your new single, ‘In Parallel’, what is the meaning? 

The song is reflecting on what is involved in maintaining a long-term relationship. I reference swans, as a symbol of loyalty. Not only do they mate for life, but they can often be seen swimming in parallel together over great distances. As humans, we have many distractions and interferences both internally and externally that can knock us of our path. In the video, I use ballet to represent the expansive dance involved for any couple.  I include in this dance, each person’s understanding and management of their own inner child. I also wanted to get across that whilst some threats to the relationship may be conscious, others may only become knowable via dreams. However, it is the ability to face up to or throw sentient light on what lies in the shadows,  that can ultimately strengthen a relationship.

I found it particularly poignant to learn that swans sing when they die.  I feel that each song of mine is perhaps a swansong of sorts, because there needs to be a death to give rise to a birth so it is inherent in any creation.

Which artists in the current industry inspire you the most?

The way that David Bowie continued his music to the very end of his life, incorporating his own dying process into his art was profoundly moving and inspiring. Even though he died in 2016, the ripples of this legacy are still powerfully current.

My daughter listens to a lot of Billie Eilish and as a result of this, I have been exposed to more of her music over the last few years than almost any other artist. I have been really struck by the power of her vision, from her songs to her videos, her performance and even the way she engages with her fans. 

What is the best thing about being a musician in 2023?

All musicians who lived through the pandemic have seen that music still has a place, even when we can’t perform live. For all its widely reported problems, technology has enabled us to both record and share music without even leaving our homes and that is incredible. I think in 2023 we are all appreciating being able to play live again, whilst also knowing that whatever the circumstances, the music will still play on!

Is there a certain place you often go to write? E.g a certain room, or environment?

When I’m writing for my own need to express something, it will always be on my piano in my lounge. A piano that goes back 3 family generations and is still able to keep its tune! If I’m writing as a commission, or as a project or co-write, it is a very different head-space and I can do that anytime and anywhere!

What is your first memory of music? 

I don’t know that I could trust any answer I gave to this question. Memory is so unreliable as we tend to construct and fabricate our stories without realizing it, shaping them subtly over time like a Chinese whisper. However, I do have consistent and powerful early childhood memories of my Dad’s best friend singing to me before bed on his guitar. I loved his voice which was gentle and soothing. It certainly had a formative impact on me.

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Photo Credit: Marsha Swanson.

Words By Joey Rochert.

Hello, 4Qua Of OrioN, Let’s talk about your new single, ‘4QuaZulu’, what is the meaning? 

4Qua simply means 4Qua of the zulu spirit, Zulus were remarkable people in ancient Africa and they are still a great people so it’s simply 4Qua meaning myself bathing in the glory of Zulu fame for lack of better words 🙂

Which artists in the current industry inspire you the most?

It’s hard to say in particular as majority of the acts / artists currently charting are excellent, I tend to be more drawn to Genre of music  and that itself is a temporary thing as my genre of choice this hour might not necessarily be the same in the next hour if you know what I mean,

What is the best thing about being a musician in 2023?

The tools available for exposure and marketing ones arts have never been so accessible so this is a great time for musicians in my opinion

Is there a certain place you often go to write? E.g a certain room, or environment?

Not really, so far i’ve not been able to relate, when I hear musicians or composers imply or insist that having a dedicated space or  time is a prerequisite for success in or with their work, hahaha one just never knows when inspiration will come, for me it’s  not something i can switch off and on like it’s some sort of laboratory science endeavour, no jose. 

What is your first memory of music? 

My first memory of music? Hmmm…. listening to the Bassline by Aston Family Man Barrett on Bob Marley’s Rastaman vibration for the first time, I can clearly remember how i felt, i think i must have been 6 0r 7 years old.

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Photo Credit: 4Qua Of OrioN.

Words By Joey Rochert.

4Qua Of OrioN’s latest single, ‘4QuaZulu’, showcases the artist’s remarkable growth and talent, solidifying their position in the music industry. With this track, he has successfully blended the infectious rhythms of afro-pop with the contemporary elements of western pop, resulting in a captivating and unique musical experience.

From the moment the song begins, ‘4QuaZulu’ immediately grabs the attention with its pulsating groove. The rhythm is undeniably contagious, making it impossible not to move along with the music. Also, the track boasts a refreshing sound that effortlessly bridges cultural boundaries and appeals to a wide range of listeners.

For us though, what sets this single apart is the sense of journey it takes you on. 4Qua Of OrioN masterfully crafts a sonic landscape that transports you to another world. The catchy melodies and vibrant instrumentation create an immersive experience that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

You can listen below.

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Photo Credit: 4Qua Of OrioN.

Words By Joey Rochert.

Prepare for the exciting arrival with Thomas Cole’s highly anticipated new release, ‘Up In Smoke’, out on May 19th. This multi-talented artist, known for his acting, modeling, and singing prowess, is about to make yet another grand entrance, igniting the scene with even more intensity. The release also comes with an official video, featuring the charismatic model and former heavyweight boxing champion Rudy Bundini, scheduled to premiere at 9 am ET on the 19th!

‘Up In Smoke’ is sure to captivate and it brings an allure of temptation that will lead you astray, before pulling you back in again! Also, with its pulsating bassline, infectious beats, and soaring vocals, this track instantly grabs the spotlight and refuses to let go.

Pre-order here.

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Photo Credit: Thomas Cole.

Words By Joey Rochert.

‘Boogie Juice’ by Jejune, well, where do we start? What a treat it is to hear this one! Since the band’s PR sent this over, we knew we had to get stuck in! The track from the Leeds Boys is an exciting combination of indie, rock and pop that showcases the band’s ability to create a unique sound that’s groovy, catchy and boogie juicy.

Also, when delving deeper into the track, some undertones of funk are coming up from the woodwork, too, adding an extra layer of feel-good to the encounter! Also, what makes the track quite the ear-worm is that the vocals are easy to sing along to; they are soul indenting and stay with us long after it concludes!

Get down to ‘Boogie Juice’ below.

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Photo Credit: Jejune.