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Photo by Dalila Dalprat Let’s be real: social media is great, but it’s also a black hole of algorithms, shadowbans, and “wait... where did my audience go?” vibes. If you're an artist or brand relying only on Instagram or TikTok to connect with your people, you're basically building a house on rented land. Want to own your fanbase instead of renting them from Zuck and friends? It’s time to build something better: an email list that doesn’t just collect contacts — it cultivates superfans. You know, the kind who buy your merch at 2 AM, comment on everything , and would probably Venmo you rent money if you asked (don’t, but still). Here’s how to build that list from zero to legendary — no boring newsletters, no spammy tactics. Just a real connection. Step 1: Give Them a Good Reason to Subscribe The rule? No one joins a list for “updates.” People want value. So give them something irresistible — a digital “thank-you-for-caring” that’s too juicy to pass up. Ideas: A free unreleased song or demo download An exclusive behind-the-scenes video Early bird access to tour tickets or merch A downloadable PDF like "The Secret Stories Behind My Songs" A personal voice note (raw + real = connection) Call it a fan gift , VIP pass , insider club , whatever — just make it feel special, not spammy. Step 2: Build a Simple Signup System You don’t need to know how to code. You just need: A landing page (use ConvertKit, Beehiiv, Mailchimp, etc.) A pop-up or link in bio A clear, punchy headline like: “Get My Secret Song Demos – Only for Real Ones” Don’t overthink it. One form, one promise, one click. Add a checkbox so fans can tell you what they want more of — new music? BTS content? Tour updates? This gives you ammo for future email content. Step 3: Make the First Email Matter Your welcome email sets the tone. It’s your digital handshake — and it better slap. Here’s a quick recipe: Thank them for joining (duh) Deliver the freebie/gift right away Share something personal: a story, a voice memo, a short video Tell them what to expect (and how often) Bonus: Ask a fun question to spark replies “What’s your all-time favorite breakup song?”(People LOVE to share opinions.) Step 4: Keep It Real (and Consistent) Don’t go ghost. Superfans are built through consistency  and authenticity . If you only email when you're promoting something? That’s a red flag. Instead: Send 2–4 emails a month Mix it up: behind-the-scenes, unreleased thoughts, tour stories, spicy memes, voice notes Treat it like a group chat, not a corporate newsletter Pro tip: Write how you speak . No need to sound like a business brochure. Be yourself — but with spellcheck. Step 5: Use Data to See Who’s REALLY Into You Most email platforms show you open rates, clicks, replies, etc. Don’t ignore these numbers. Watch for: High openers = potential street team material Link clickers = your merch buyers Frequent repliers = future collaborators or superfans Segment your list and show extra love to the top 10%. Maybe a secret drop just for them? Or handwritten lyrics sent via email? That extra step turns casual fans into lifelong believers. Avoid These Rookie Mistakes Don’t buy email lists. Ever. Gross. Don’t ghost your list for 6 months and then hit them with a merch link Don’t write like a brand. Write like a human. Don’t forget mobile formatting (over 60% will open on their phones) How to Build a Superfan-Worthy Email List Photo by cottonbro studio Offer a fan gift they actually want Make signup stupid simple Deliver a welcome email that slaps Send consistent, personality-filled content Track engagement + reward the real ones Because at the end of the day, it’s not about having more  followers — it’s about building a tribe that actually gives a damn. Email lists are the secret weapon most artists sleep on. But when used right? It’s the ultimate fan-to-superfan funnel. Now go build that list like it’s your legacy.

Michigan's own Black Note Graffiti are gearing up to soundtrack your summer with a slew of live shows and festival appearances. This dynamic five-piece, who've carved out a sonic space blending the melodic punch of modern rock with the textured grit of bands like Deftones and the raw energy of Turnstile, are hitting stages across the Midwest, including stops at Lansing's Grewal Hall (May 9th with Of Virtue), Ann Arbor's Burn Fest (June 14th with Heartsick), and a two-day stint at Wisconsin's Mile of Music Festival (August 1st & 2nd). Adding fuel to the fire, BNG has also dropped a limited edition vinyl pressing of their acclaimed fourth studio album, Resist The Divide , available now via their website. This latest effort, which features standout tracks like "The Source" and "Place You Lie" (the latter boasting a fresh video directed by William Wombat Felch), was helmed by the acclaimed Josh Schroeder (Lorna Shore, King 810). Partnered with Golden Robot Global Entertainment (home to acts like Filter and L.A. Guns), Black Note Graffiti has consistently delivered their unique brand of progressive metal-infused alternative rock, captivating fans both locally and nationwide. Known for their intense live performances, having previously shared stages with heavyweights like Lamb of God and Bring Me The Horizon, BNG's music delves into the raw emotional struggles of addiction, trauma, and mental health, offering a powerful message of perseverance and self-redemption through soaring vocals, crushing riffs, and thunderous rhythms. Don't miss your chance to catch them live and snag that limited edition vinyl! 05.09.25 - Grewal Hall at 224 - Lansing, MI (w/ Of Virtue) - Tickets 06.14.25 - Burn Fest (Blind Pig) - Ann Arbor, MI (w/ Heartsick) - Tickets 08.01.25 - Mile of Music Festival - Appleton, WI - Event page 08.02.25 - Mile of Music Festival - Appleton, WI - Event page

In the vibrant visual for his empowering anthem “Diamonds In The Crowd,” Thomas Orlina brings his message of authenticity and individuality to life with flair. Thomas Orlina has always used his platform to uplift and inspire, and with this video, he offers a bold reminder: when you own your story, you sparkle. The visuals in “Diamonds In The Crowd” are striking—what was the creative vision behind the mirrored scenes and evolving wardrobe changes? Hi BUZZMUSIC! I am so happy to be back! This music video was directed by me, so I’m happy that my followers and fans get to see something that was driven by my vision. Jimmy Page edited the project. From the beginning, I was inspired by a lot of pop artists I love. I grew up watching so many iconic videos, and with such a fun, upbeat song, I wanted that to reflect in the visual. The main dance sequence that happens in the all black look was inspired by Lady Gaga’s “Alejandro” video, the rain moment was inspired by one of Britney Spears’ legendary live shows in Las Vegas, and I drew a lot of inspiration from Charli XCX! You seamlessly blend fashion and performance in this visual. How did your personal style influence the video’s overall aesthetic? My style often evolves with the eras I’m in. Diamonds In The Crowd is a very liberating chapter in my life. Drawing inspiration from the diamonds of it all, in this era, you can see me wearing a lot of Swarovski pieces that are so special to have on. I’ve loved fashion since age 5, so to be featured in Vogue earlier this year was super exciting. I’m pleased that the fits all came together for this music video, I feel like it elevated the vibe of the project. My dancers and I had so much fun on set transforming into different characters and tapped into a lot of theatrical moments. I think this music video showcases a mature side to me that’s more in control of their musical direction and confident in their choices. This video feels like a celebration of identity. Were there any specific moments or emotions from your own life that you wanted to visually capture? It absolutely is! I told my team I wanted to just have a good time on set and play up a sexy, confident vixen. Kyle Thompson, my long-time creative director, has helped instill in me so many strong mental traits, and so I channeled all of that energy the day we filmed this video. Some of my wardrobe choices were more out there than I have worn in the past, so it’s exciting to showcase a different side to my personality. There are so many unique sets that we used for this project. I think it speaks for itself, and I hope my supporters love it! If viewers could take away just one feeling after watching the “Diamonds In The Crowd” video, what would you want that to be? I would want them to feel empowered and to know that it’s never too late to live out their dreams. Confidence truly comes from within, so that feeling of being able to do anything you put your mind to is what I hope the audience takes from watching this music video. What's next for you? There’s so much going on right now. We are excited to partner with Los Angeles’ newest LGBTQ bar KISO nightclub along with Queer Asian Social Club to celebrate the premiere of the music video, I’m currently working on new music set to release very soon and of course more live shows we’re preparing for.

On Earth Day 2025, East LA's cosmic crusaders Pulsar Radio blasted off with Father Skye , the first installment of their two-part EP, Father Skye —and it's nothing short of an interstellar mind-bender. Fusing space rock, alternative, punk, and prog-metal into a mythic and modern sound, the trio channels the spirit of Rush, Mastodon, Bowie, and Deftones into a sonic voyage that's as heartfelt as it is heavy. Formed in 2020 by multi-instrumentalist N8 Hassan and keyboardist/vocalist Fabiola Hassan, Pulsar Radio has evolved into a three-piece powerhouse with bassist Frank Pharra grounding their otherworldly sound. With Father Skye , they take their biggest swing yet, pulling inspiration from Native mythology, Scottish folklore, and the cold truth of climate collapse to deliver a record that's as much a call to arms as a love letter to the stars. The title track, "Father Skye," is an epic prog-rock journey that opens (and closes) with an actual pulsar sample—a neutron star hum that underscores the band's fascination with the cosmos. The track features explosive lead guitar work from N8's former bandmate Ryan Bertolami, conjuring galactic-sized riffs while reminding us to look up and within. Elsewhere on the EP, "Long Lost Dream" continues a cosmic storyline introduced in their debut EP, Interstellar Sunday . At the same time, "Atomic Zombie Eyes" rages against political corruption with a punked-out fury. "Light Years," meanwhile, softens the punch with a shoegaze-meets-space-rock love song that drifts beautifully across the void. Engineered partially at the legendary Clear Lake Studios—home to Tragic Kingdom —and finished at the band's own Estudio De Julio in Boyle Heights, the project is self-produced, mixed, and mastered by N8 Hassan himself. The result? It is a raw, textured, theatrical experience that begs to be heard live, loud, and preferably under strobe lights. Pulsar Radio's Father Skye is more than an album—it's a transmission from a not-so-distant future, begging us to save what's left of this world while dreaming wildly of the next. "Father Skye" blends myth, science, and activism—what inspired you to tie together Native stories, Scottish folklore, and space exploration in a single project? Initially, we began working on an LP in March of 2024, and it was just going to be called Mother Earth, named after a single we released on Earth Day 2023. We wanted to bring more awareness to taking better care of our precious planet Earth, and even blended in Nirvana’s Something In The Way into the song, stating that “We” are what is standing in the way of Earth’s preservation and destruction. Then the LP turned into a double EP concept inspired by Indigenous Studies of Space, Science and Stories from Native Culture specifically the Navajo Creation Story passed down from generations and also includes other cultures as well specifically the story of Father Skye in Scottish Folklore- there’s a symbiotic sense of duality to Mother Earth and Father Skye. The Native story is really beautiful. “The first creation of the Great Spirit was Father Sky and Mother Earth, from whence all life sprang. The crossing of their hands and feet signifies the union of heaven and earth, bound eternally together by the Rainbow Guardian.” We wanted the Double EP to not only be a concept album based on these beautiful stories but also bring more awareness to the cultures from which they come from. Science, Space Awareness, and Exploration are also a big part of what our band stands for, and we think we need to first start with our Planet. We want our music to inspire people to take better care of each other and our precious planet Earth, which is in dire need of our attention at this very moment. The EP was released on Earth Day. After hearing these songs, what message do you hope listeners take away about the planet—and their place in the cosmos? We hope listeners are inspired to further explore what we can do now to help save our planet while at the same time humbling them by realizing we are only a fragile, tiny blue speck in the grand scheme of a vast universe. We hope they feel our music is the soundtrack to life on earth and the pulse to the heartbeat of the cosmos. You've described "Atomic Zombie Eyes" as a reaction to political frustration. Can you talk about how your songwriting channels rage and hope in turbulent times? We are definitely living in turbulent times, especially when it comes to crooked politics and the state of democracy in the U.S. and peace around the world. Some of our favorite artists are bands who through the years (and still very relevant today) wrote protest anthems for the people for example Joan Baez, Bob Dylan and John and Yoko’s Plastic Ono Band. At this time, we are living in a state of emergency, and there is a great need for more artists and musicians to stand up for the rights of the people, help in the fight for our rights and freedom, and try to save what’s left of our planet. Strong Songwriting can give people hope in dark times and has the power to inspire people to change the world. Our song stems from feeling sick and tired of rich and corrupt billionaires and politicians destroying the earth while we stand on the brink of world atomic destruction. We hope this song alleviates this frustration and wakes people up with knowledge of space and science. Furthermore, taking steps to answer a call for action in saving humanity and a generation that seems to be stuck, eyes glued like zombies to video games, cell phones, TV screens, and streaming platforms. There's a real pulsar sample in the title track. What drew you to incorporate actual space sounds, and how does it enhance the storytelling? Yes, there is! The band is greatly inspired by space and specifically Pulsar Stars, which emit sound, radio waves, and pulsing light after the star dies. In fact, when Pulsars were first discovered, we thought they were transmissions from extraterrestrial life on other planets. There are so many sounds of the universe that we are just tapping into and learning they exist. Pulsar stars emit a lot of sound and rhythm. We thought it would be an extra bonus to sample the sounds of space and to help bring the story of the song to life! Pulsar Radio has a reputation for high-energy live shows. How does performing these new songs on stage elevate their meaning or intensity for you as a band? Performing these songs live on stage only elevates our sound and further brings our songs to life. Sharing our music with fresh new audiences of all ages out there is a huge inspiration to us and helps us continue to keep making good music! Inspired Space Rock and hopeful anthem jams for the people of planet earth and beyond to sing and dance to!

There’s something truly thrilling about watching a group you grew up with step into a new era, and 98° just did that with “ Stranger Things (Have Happened) .” The surprise single arrives ahead of their upcoming album ‘Full Circle,’ and it’s clear that they’ve still got it. In fact, we don’t think it ever left, but now it’s layered with grit, polish, and a presence fit for a bold reintroduction. What makes this single hit is the duality it’s laced with. It’s very much a nod to the Stranger Things era, oh yeah, that iconic television series you and everyone else binge-watched the moment each season dropped. Chock-full of warped timelines and layered dimensions, this track also mirrors the band’s evolution, collectively and individually. Who they were then, and who they’ve stepped into being now. There’s not a single shred of them trying to compete with the past. They love what they’ve created for themselves in the present, and they’re owning it with a robust presence that’s apparent in “Stranger Things (Have Happened).” Building a musical foundation on vintage synths that shimmer, and grounding it with harmonies that somehow still feel like the home we grew up in, we love how this track plays with nostalgia without drowning in it. It’s that familiar feeling of slipping into a tried-and-true pair of jeans, only to find they fit even better now. Each melody is lush, each texture breathes life, and the lyrical undertones carry just enough ache to leave a mark. Romantic, sure, but grounded in the kind of vulnerability that comes from a colorful and heartfelt life lived out loud. As the first taste of their forthcoming album ‘Full Circle,’ “Stranger Things (Have Happened)” is the comeback moment we wanted, but richer. A reintroduction that reminds us why 98° never needed to play by anyone’s rules in the first place. They’re redefining who they are on their own terms, and we’re here for every moment of it. Keep reading for our exclusive interview with 98°, as Jeff Timmons dives into all our questions. Welcome to BUZZMUSIC, 98°! We’re loving the new single. What’s the story behind “Stranger Things (Have Happened),” and why was it the perfect lead for the new album? We thought that “Stranger Things (Have Happened)” was a perfect lead-in track on the album, because it represents all of the things that encompass the 98 Degrees signature sound, but with current AND throwback track production, which adds a nice freshness to everything.  Is there a song on the album that still hits you hard, whether from writing it or what it brings up when you perform it? It’s really hard to choose when it comes to the re-recorded hits. They all mean so much and have wonderful memories attached to each of them. As far as the new material goes, I would have to say that “Got U” is pretty energizing even though it’s a ballad. It sounds like a true 99 Degrees instant classic!  If you could sit down with your younger selves at the start of 98°, what would they say about this album and who you’ve become? I think if I were able to sit down with my younger self and discuss this album and where we are today, I probably would be shocked and surprised that we’re doing what we love, creating music and performing this many years later. It’s truly a blessing. “Stranger Things (Have Happened)” feels like both a nod to the past and a new direction. What did you need to express with this track that you had never expressed before? We’ve tried a number of different styles of music throughout the years; uptempo stuff, some edgy stuff, but we always resort back to the 98 Degrees formula, which is great melodies, harmonies, and lyrics. Those things are all present in the song, but what’s different stylistically for us are the ’80s sounding synths, which put the things we’re best known for over some '80s-esque track elements, which were unique and a lot of fun. What can fans expect from the upcoming ‘Full Circle’ shows? Our shows are always full of energy and surprises, with a little humor injected. That’s no different with this upcoming group of shows. We sing a lot of ballads, but bring the energy!

After years of artistic metamorphosis and personal resilience, Ohio-based duo The Firmament is poised to make their boldest statement yet. Led by brothers Eric and Brandon Carbenia, The Firmament has evolved from its metalcore roots into a progressive post-hardcore powerhouse known for its philosophical depth and fearless experimentation. Since their 2018 debut, Spirit of Place has drawn comparisons to acts like Tool and Porcupine Tree; the duo has faced a journey marked by lineup changes, relocation, and spiritual reinvention—experiences that now fuel the heart of their newest release. A New World If You Can Take It is a sonic and thematic expansion. Self-produced and mastered by genre titans Kris Crummett and Jens Bogren, the album fuses modern metalcore, alternative rock, and post-hardcore with lyrical meditations on existence, addiction, and healing. Each track is steeped in a sense of searching—from the explosive "After Me, The Flood" to the hypnotic shifts of "Liquid Lush." The album's current single, "Benedictional," featuring Alex Hunter (Present), stands out. Described as the most accessible track on the album, it blends alt-rock hooks with introspective lyrics about the pain of parting from a toxic relationship while still wishing the other person well. The title itself captures this emotional duality. Its accompanying video, layered with surreal visuals from Twin Peaks and David Lynch films, heightens the track's dreamlike melancholy. While not a concept album in structure, A New World If You Can Take It  unfolds like a spiritual odyssey—rich with cryptic motifs, coded lyrics, and progressive dynamics that reward deep listening. This is The Firmament at their most refined, their most vulnerable, and their most fearless.

The Campbell Apartment ’s latest single, “Words With Birds,” is a gentle yet resonant indie track that captures songwriter Ari Vais at his most reflective. Released via Mint 400 Records, the song pairs wistful lyrics with a dreamy arrangement, blending acoustic guitar, soft percussion, and swirling textures that build into something quietly cinematic. Vais, who’s spent years carving out a distinct space in indie rock, brings a lived-in sense of storytelling to “Words With Birds.” His voice sits front and center—warm, expressive, and slightly weathered—floating above a laid-back pulse of bass and lightly layered instrumentation. As the track unfolds, it grows in depth, gradually introducing distorted guitars and dynamic percussion that lend it a rich, almost hypnotic momentum. Produced by Bay Area engineer Chris Dunn, the song was written and recorded in a burst of immediacy, a process that gives it an off-the-cuff charm without sacrificing its polish. Like much of Vais’s work, it walks a fine line between vulnerability and catchiness, inviting listeners in without overstating its presence. “Words With Birds” marks another strong entry in The Campbell Apartment’s expansive discography and serves as a standout moment from their new album 510 , available now.

Photo by Sherman Trotz Music isn’t just something you listen to. It’s who you are. And if you’re an indie head? That’s not just taste, that’s identity . You’re not here for Top 40 fluff. You’re here for the deep cuts, the DIY heartbreakers, the one-person synth projects recorded in someone’s childhood bedroom and released with zero PR budget. But let’s get real — the artist you stan says a lot  about you. Like, maybe too much. Here’s what your favorite indie artist really  says about your vibe, your inner chaos, and your unsent text messages. Phoebe Bridgers You're 60% sarcasm, 40% sadness, and somehow the emotional support friend for all your mutuals. You pretend you hate people, but would still cry over a perfectly folded hoodie left behind after a breakup. You once told someone, “No worries,” and then worried about it for six hours. You romanticize rainy walks with no destination and probably have a playlist titled “songs that make me feel like a haunted house.” Tame Impala You’re chill, you say. But your brain? A chaotic disco. You once microdosed at a thrift store and ended up buying a lava lamp, a fake fur coat, and a DVD copy of Donnie Darko.  You think in textures, own incense for no reason, and probably know what your aura color is. You’ll talk about spiritual healing, then ghost someone because Mercury is in retrograde. Mitski You have main character energy and  villain origin story energy. You romanticize your trauma, stare out of car windows like you're in a French film, and feel personally attacked by lyrics that are too accurate. You're constantly evolving but also deeply loyal to your past selves. You believe in soft power, controlled rage, and the importance of a good cry in public. Clairo Your aesthetic is emotional intimacy with soft lighting. You text in lowercase, journal on recycled paper, and could write an entire memoir about that one summer you almost kissed someone at 2AM and didn’t. You’re not here for superficial convos — you want the deep stuff. And even when you’re heartbroken, your eyeliner’s still flawless. Mac DeMarco You either have incredible emotional depth or haven’t done your laundry in six weeks — there’s no in-between. You’re that effortlessly chill person who somehow always ends up the DJ at every house party. You own at least one Polaroid camera, use phrases like “vibey” unironically, and probably named your plant after a 70s pop culture reference. You're chaotic good, with a dash of “let’s skip town and open a vintage shop” energy. FKA twigs You are art. You’re also slightly terrifying — in the best possible way. You speak in metaphors, probably own crystals charged under the full moon, and your outfits always look like you’re either going to a futuristic opera or summoning something in the forest. You thrive in mystery, redefine sensuality, and your friends always ask you what that one weird-but-amazing song was from your last playlist drop. Rex Orange County You're the softest chaos. You give people nicknames, send “this reminded me of you” memes, and overthink text bubbles. You give great hugs, write in the notes app at 1AM, and believe in second chances (even when you probably shouldn’t). Your emotions are tuned to a lo-fi filter, and you still think about that one line from that one song at least once a week. Sufjan Stevens You’re a poet trapped in a Tumblr account circa 2014. You romanticize melancholy, have at least one deeply niche interest (like Victorian ghost photography or bird migration patterns), and sometimes pretend you’re in a Wes Anderson film just to get through the day. You believe every feeling deserves its own 9-minute orchestral masterpiece. Your vibe is “quietly intense” — and people are always a little scared to ask what you're really thinking. Your Obscure Local Band No One’s Heard Of You are that  friend — the tastemaker, the underground evangelist, the human version of a zine. You refuse to gatekeep, but also feel personally offended when your fave gets mainstream success. You go to shows in community halls, buy tapes, and know the lead singer’s birthday. You don’t just listen to music, you live  in it. You are indie culture personified, and without you, there would be no scene. Your Favorite Indie Artist Is Your Soul in Sound Form Whether you live for bedroom pop, avant-garde R&B, or electro-folk that only exists on cassette, the music you love says something real  about who you are. And while we’re poking fun, it’s because we get it — music isn’t just sound, it’s self-expression . It’s the emotional translator for feelings you haven’t even named yet. So wear your fave artist like a badge of honor. Cry to them, dance to them, and overshare in group chats about them. Because in a world trying to make everything algorithm-approved and ad-friendly, loving music deeply, weirdly, and unapologetically? That’s punk.

At just 17, Aria Mody is already making major moves—and her latest single, “ Made In India, ” is proof she’s not waiting for anyone’s permission to take over pop music. A dazzling blend of Eastern influence and Western pop sensibilities, the track is a cultural celebration wrapped in flirtation, euphoria, and bold self-expression. The New Jersey-based singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist is more than a high school senior balancing AP classes and varsity fencing—she’s a rising powerhouse reshaping what it means to be a Gen Z artist. In “Made In India,” Aria brings her biracial identity to the forefront, delivering a sultry love song rooted in both her heritage and her global ambitions. Co-produced by multi-platinum Grammy-winner Derek “DOA” Allen, the track flows effortlessly between English and Hindi, her vocals gliding with a softness that captivates from the first note. This is no cookie-cutter pop release. “Made In India” radiates individuality—melding infectious bass with shimmering synths and a hypnotic Hindi chorus that feels as timeless as it is trendy. It’s clear Aria is deeply connected to her roots, but she’s just as focused on building a future sound that reflects today’s multicultural reality. The song might be about falling fast for someone who makes your world tilt, but it’s also about feeling confident in where you come from—and owning that on a global stage. The music video takes that vision even further. Directed and choreographed by Bollywood’s own Prince Gupta, the visual feels like stepping into a coming-of-age fantasy set at a high-energy Indian house party. The set is vibrant, the styling is on point, and Mody—alongside Indian actor Ayaan Zubair—delivers cinematic chemistry that’s impossible to ignore. It’s rich in color, texture, and emotion, and it effortlessly blurs the lines between Bollywood glam and American pop star realness. “Made In India” isn’t just a song—it’s a statement. One that says pop music is global, love is universal, and Aria Mody has officially arrived. You’ve masterfully blended Hindi and English in “Made In India”—what was the inspiration behind weaving both languages into the track, and how do they reflect your identity? I wanted to step outside the boundaries. There are so many rules that may feel constricting, but creativity sparks when rules are broken. “Made in India” isn’t about where you were born, but rather, where you were built. I am so grateful to have lived both the American and Indian experience, and I want to use my love for music to express my passion for them both! The music video is vibrant and cinematic, with a clear Bollywood influence—what was it like working with Prince Gupta and bringing that vision to life? He really taught me how to act when shooting the music video. His directory really inspired me and showed me my capabilities as an actress. His work really inspired me to quite literally think outside of the box (or phone booth in this case) and reach for the stars. As a young woman navigating the music industry, what are some of the biggest challenges you've faced so far, and how are you overcoming them? As a female artist and producer, some people, whether that be in the industry or your everyday acquaintances, don’t give you as much accountability or credit for your work or ideas. Likewise, there weren’t any female producers to work with or have a community with. This inspired me to introduce other females into the field of music, production, and engineering. By having more girls and women in the entertainment industry playing these roles, we will be able to have a stronger community that will gain as much respect as everyone else. Your mother’s support has clearly played a huge role in your journey—how has her encouragement shaped the artist you are today? My mother’s support has been the foundation of my journey. She not only introduced me to the rich traditions of Indian music but also encouraged me to embrace my creativity fearlessly. Her belief in me has shaped me into the artist I am today — someone who honors their roots while confidently stepping into new spaces. She taught me the importance of hard work, resilience, and staying true to my voice, no matter what challenges come my way. If you could describe your music in three words that reflect your heritage, ambition, and artistry, what would they be, and why? Authentic because everything I do and say is genuine. I want to be the credible, honest person that people reach out to. Everything I create comes straight from my heart, deeply influenced by who I am and where I come from. Ambitious because I constantly aim to blend genres and tell stories that reach across borders. Motivation always inspires me to keep growing. Cross-cultural because my sound is a fusion of my Indian heritage and my American upbringing — a bridge between two vibrant worlds.

In his most vulnerable and unfiltered release to date, Brendan Abernathy strips everything back—production, polish, even self-protection—to deliver “april 23,” a soul-crushing yet stunningly honest track that encapsulates what it feels like to fall for someone you know will break your heart. Released under Ari Elkins’ Blue Suede Records, “april 23” is the latest chapter in the lead-up to Brendan’s debut full-length album the kid who got it all wrong. The song is a piano-led slow burn, recorded in one emotionally charged day without vocal tuning or studio trickery. It’s heartbreak in its purest form, and you feel every second of it. The lyrics pull no punches—Abernathy sings from the eye of the storm, not the aftermath. Written in real time while he was spiraling in anxiety and heartbreak, the rawness of “april 23” feels almost invasive, as if we’re sitting next to him on the couch, watching him collapse between takes. That emotional gravity is matched by the minimalist production of naebird (Chance Peña, Jordan Suaste), who lets Brendan’s voice carry the weight of the track, later mixed to perfection by Raul Lopez (Shaboozey, Shawn Mendes). What sets “april 23” apart isn’t just its vulnerability—it’s the masculine transparency that Brendan proudly leans into. A self-described “man’s man” who loves football and bonfires, he’s also unafraid to cry in the studio, to write songs about loneliness, and to give men permission to feel deeply. In his words, if “april 23” can open up one more heart at a show, it’s done its job. The single debuted to a sold-out crowd and continues to resonate with fans nationwide as Abernathy tours with Sofia Isella. With over 600 shows under his belt and a full album on the horizon, Brendan Abernathy isn’t just everyone’s local artist anymore—he’s becoming a voice for a generation of men learning to be both strong and soft. You wrote “april 23” while still in the thick of heartbreak , not after the dust had settled. What was it like to document that pain in real time, and how did it shape the raw, one-day recording process? Hard. But important. I was down so bad that it felt pointless if I didn’t do anything with it. I drove down to San Diego to get away from my head and put on the old Speak Now album by Taylor Swift, and just felt so seen. Those original recordings have a magic to them because Taylor is so earnest and in the thick of it. I’m always chasing that, and it can’t be faked. So I wanted to do the recording while the song was fresh on my heart, but then when it came time to really track the vocals, it genuinely took everything I had physically. I would collapse after each take, then draw myself back up to the mic and sing again. You’ve described this song as a look in the mirror about falling for the wrong people. What patterns or realizations did writing this track help you uncover about your own relationships? I’m attracted to the exciting, unpredictable, fun people. The people that a room gravitates towards. To sound trendy, I looooove a good emotionally unavailable lass. But I think those people often can’t love me to the extent I, and anyone, longs for. Or maybe I’m the problem. And I guess the song sits in that space – am I falling for the wrong people? Or am I unlovable? Not knowing is pretty gut-wrenching. Your live shows are known for being emotionally charged and deeply connective. How did it feel debuting “april 23” to a sold-out crowd, knowing how personal and unfiltered it is? Well, I sang it accapella, no mic, no instrument. So, I felt naked on stage. Vulnerable. And at the core, it’s a song that fully exposes all my insecurities and troubles, so I guess that’s the only right way. There’s a powerful line in your quote—“I’m a man’s man… but I’m comfortable talking about my feelings.” How important is it for you to use your platform to challenge stereotypes around masculinity and emotional vulnerability? At first, it wasn’t important at all because I don’t think I recognized the power of vulnerability to heal, nor the great lack of conversation amongst men. Then the DM’s started flowing in from guys about how my music made them feel less alone and realize they weren’t crazy for being emotional as men. I still get a few of those a week, and at this point, I’m starting to think maybe it’s my purpose and calling in this after all. Men’s mental health, being a silent killer, is a major problem in the US. I was raised in the South, where sports are king, and men don’t talk about what’s going on underneath it all. But I’ve always had good friends - through sports and other things - who I talk about it all with.. Real men talk about their feelings. And I guess I hope real men listen to Brendan Abernathy. “april 23” is part of your upcoming debut album the kid who got it all wrong. How does this single fit into the larger story of the album, and what can fans expect emotionally and sonically from the full release? Super central. It was the third or fourth song written explicitly for the album, and at the time, I was mostly exploring why I get love and romance wrong over and over and over again. In a sense, I found the answer by writing this song, so it freed me up to explore the rest of the world of the album. The kid is the story of growing up and doing it all right, only to feel like we got it all wrong. The kid is me for sure, and most of the stories are my own - not living up to expectations from others, not living out dreams of my own, failing time and time again, getting my heart broken. “April 23” is right in the center of the heartbreak piece, and how being single makes me feel like a failure. As for sonics, every sound on the album is recorded with a real instrument; there’s no tuning on the vocals, but it’s a polished work. I’ve always been drawn to folk, Irish, and pop music, and so the songwriting probably is a blend of the three. The lyrics are biting, but I always hope to convey more of a feeling than anything, so it’s an album of raw emotion exploring how even in a life well-lived, there is lots of pain. America is built on fables of success and dreams. Sometimes those fables and reality meet, but for me so far, and I think for most of us, life is full of figuring it out and the in between.