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Grab your cowboy hat and a box of tissues because Canadian country sensation Mitch Zorn is about to hit you right in the feels with his new single, “Back To You.” This isn’t just another heartbreak tune—it’s a cinematic journey through late-night longing and those impossible-to-resist romantic disasters we all know too well. Think of it as a soundtrack to your next midnight drive, where memories of that person creep up on you like a haunting ghost in cowboy boots. The track opens with a delicate piano line that feels like the calm before an emotional storm. But before you can get too comfortable, in swoops a smoldering steel guitar, giving the song that warm, bittersweet ache country fans live for. As Mitch’s voice glides over the instrumentals, you’re transported to a world of reckless desire and nostalgia—you know, the kind of love that’s no good for you but keeps pulling you back in any way. It’s dangerously relatable. “Back To You” is more than just a catchy tune; it’s also the title track for Mitch’s upcoming debut album, and if this song is any indicator, we’re in for a rollercoaster of emotions and toe-tapping hooks. Zorn’s knack for storytelling shines as he paints vivid scenes of heartbreak and hope. Honestly, if your heart’s been through the wringer recently, you’re going to feel seen. This rising star from Nakusp, BC, is no stranger to turning heads. He burst onto the scene last year with his breakout single “Home,” a track that climbed to #38 on Canadian Country radio and was the #1 Most-Added across all radio formats in its first week. We’re talking major accolades here: Rogers One to Watch, iHeart Radio’s Future Star, New Country’s Trending Track, and Acadia’s Breakout Artist. Not to mention over a million streams to date! Clearly, Mitch Zorn isn’t just knocking on country music’s door—he’s kicked it wide open. With “Back To You,” he’s proving once again that he’s a force to be reckoned with in the Canadian country music scene. Whether you’re nursing a broken heart or just vibing to the beauty of bittersweet nostalgia, this track is bound to hit home—literally. “Back To You” explores themes of longing and reckless desire. Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind the song and any personal experiences that shaped its story?” Haha, although the song isn’t actually drawn from a real story specifically, the melody is what brought it to life in my head. I remember I was on the road for work, and I was driving back to my camp, and I remember the melody just kind of fell into my head, and a lot of times when I write, that happens. There are usually a few lines or words that follow, so I just followed the song and the vibe and just let it be what it was gonna be. The song features cinematic elements like a delicate piano and steel guitar. How did you and your production team develop the track’s sonic atmosphere to match its emotional themes? I think early on in the day in the studio, my producers kind of came to the realization that simple was gonna be their best method to proceed with this song. It just had such a cool groove that we wanted there to be space to let that groove move and let the timing do its thing so we just kept it lowkey and let it speak for itself in a sense. Your breakout single “Home” made waves in Canadian Country music last year. How has that success impacted your creative process and approach to your upcoming debut album? To be honest, I’m very grateful and so proud of how well that release did, but I try not to think about that stuff too much as far as my creative process goes. I’ve learned that if you're trying to force a certain outcome or recreate an outcome per se, then you tend to lose the magic of what makes creating a song such a cool thing, so I just try to be as present with it as possible. You’re about to embark on the Off The Record Tour with Dillon James and Allison Daniels. What can fans expect from these live shows, and how do you prepare for performing in different cities? Yeah, I mean, this was my first time playing shows out east, and I wasn’t really sure what to expect, but I’ve learned with uncertainty that you have to just be present and let it be what it's gonna be. You can’t always control every situation, so you just try to focus on the things you can control, like the way you perform a song or speak to a crowd. You just do it to the best of your ability each time, and that's all you can really do, and get good sleep! You’ve experienced a meteoric rise in a short time. What advice would you give to aspiring country artists trying to make their mark in the industry today? Ah, man, thank you. I would say I’ve been doing this for a long time, and I’m just getting started, so be patient, believe in yourself and your craft, and the right audience will find you when it's time. This business is tough, but it's the love of the game, so to speak, that will sustain you through that!

As he gears up to compete on American Idol's Season 23 , it's clear Ian's journey is just beginning. Ian Ward 's latest single, " One Shot ," is a vibrant reminder that life—and love—offer no do-overs. With a soaring blend of pop-rock energy and heartfelt lyrics, Ward delivers a powerful message about seizing the moment and following your heart. Drawing on his theater-honed charisma and soulful voice, Ian reflects on a pivotal love story from his past. The track captures the struggle of balancing ambition and romance, ultimately encouraging listeners to live boldly. Musically, "One Shot" is an earworm of optimism. Its buoyant rhythm and catchy melody recall early 2010s icons like Jason Mraz and Bruno Mars. Ian's earnest storytelling elevates the song beyond a simple pop anthem, creating a deeply personal yet universally relatable narrative. The accompanying music video, directed by Simon Kienitz Kincade, immerses viewers in the dazzling landscapes of Los Angeles. From the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame to the glowing expanse of the Santa Monica Pier, the visuals mirror the song's themes of hope and renewal. LA's enduring beauty, even after devastating wildfires, becomes a metaphor for resilience and transformation. With "One Shot," Ian Ward proves he's more than just a rising pop artist—he's a storyteller with the power to inspire. This anthem of courage and connection is his next step toward greatness. "One Shot" speaks about taking risks and following your heart. Can you share the personal story or experience that inspired this track? “One Shot” was inspired by a pivotal moment in my life when I was faced with a choice—to play it safe or take a leap of faith. It’s about a relationship I had in Los Angeles where both of us were at a crossroads, torn between pursuing our individual dreams and following our hearts. That tension between love and ambition really resonated with me, and I channeled those emotions into the song. It’s a reminder that life is fleeting, and sometimes you have to take that one shot, even if it’s scary. The song is my way of celebrating the courage it takes to chase what truly matters. The song's vibrant, uplifting energy has been compared to artists like Jason Mraz and Bruno Mars. Who are some of your biggest musical influences, and how do they shape your sound? I’ve always been drawn to artists who are incredible storytellers and have a knack for blending emotion with infectious melodies. Elton John, Joni Mitchell, and Bob Dylan are huge influences for their ability to craft timeless, heartfelt songs. On the pop side, I love the energy and charisma of artists like Jason Mraz and Bruno Mars—their music feels so alive and uplifting. With “One Shot,” I wanted to capture that same vibrant energy while staying true to my own voice. Their influence helped shape the song’s upbeat, anthemic vibe, but the storytelling and emotional core are all mine. The "One Shot" music video is a love letter to Los Angeles. What inspired you to feature such iconic LA landmarks, and how does the city's story resonate with your own journey? Los Angeles has been such a huge part of my journey as an artist. It’s a city of dreamers, and I’ve always felt a deep connection to its energy and resilience. Featuring iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Santa Monica Pier, and Griffith Observatory, it was a way to celebrate the city’s beauty and spirit. Each location tells a story—whether it’s the glitz and glamour of Hollywood or the quiet hope of watching the sunset at Griffith Observatory. LA has taught me to keep pushing forward, even when things get tough, and that’s a theme that runs through “One Shot.” The city’s story of renewal and perseverance mirrors my own journey of chasing my dreams. You 've performed on some of the world's biggest stages, including Broadway and international productions. How did your background in theater influence the storytelling and emotional delivery of "One Shot"? Theater has been my foundation as an artist. It taught me how to tell a story with every note, every word, and every gesture. With “One Shot,” I approached the song like a monologue—it’s a moment of vulnerability and clarity for the character, which, in this case, is me. My theater background helped me tap into the emotional core of the song and deliver it with authenticity. It’s not just about singing the right notes; it’s about making the audience feel something. That’s what I’ve carried with me from the stage to the studio. As you prepare to compete on American Idol's Season 23, how does "One Shot" reflect where you are in your artistic journey, and what message do you hope your fans take away from the song? “One Shot” feels like the perfect representation of where I am in my journey right now. It’s about embracing the unknown, taking risks, and trusting yourself—something I’ve had to do as I step onto the American Idol stage. This song is my way of saying, “This is me, and I’m ready to share my story with the world.” I hope it inspires my fans to take their own leaps of faith, whether it’s in love, career, or life in general. Life is too short to wait for the perfect moment—sometimes, you just have to go for it.

SoundCloud has long been a cornerstone for emerging artists, offering a platform that fosters direct connections between musicians and their audiences. Notably, artists like Billie Eilish, Post Malone, and Lil Nas X have utilized SoundCloud to launch their careers and engage with fans in innovative ways. In 2024, SoundCloud achieved profitability, a milestone attributed to strategic initiatives under CEO Eliah Seton, who joined the company in 2021. Seton's vision emphasized empowering artists through features that facilitate music promotion and fan engagement, creating new revenue streams. Programs like "Ascending" spotlight artists gaining organic traction, while AI-driven personalized playlists enhance music discovery for listeners. The platform's unique community of "crate diggers" and "tastemakers" distinguishes it from competitors. These users are instrumental in identifying and supporting artists before they achieve mainstream success. For instance, a select group of Billie Eilish 's early supporters received exclusive access during a SoundCloud event celebrating her third album, "Hit Me Hard and Soft." Artists continue to leverage SoundCloud for exclusive releases, recognizing its value in reaching dedicated fanbases. Lil Nas X, for example, independently released three exclusive tracks on the platform, engaging directly with his core audience. SoundCloud's commitment to artist empowerment and fan engagement solidifies its role as a vital space for music discovery and community building.

In a world where artistic boundaries often blur, Allan Lewis stands as a unique creative force. The London, Ontario, artist moves fluidly between photography and music, earning recognition from the Ontario Arts Council and London Arts Council for his evocative visual work while crafting raw, authentic indie rock under the moniker Van der Saar. His artistic vision seamlessly bridges these mediums, finding beauty and meaning in both the visual stillness of everyday moments and the dynamic soundscapes of his musical compositions. We were excited to ask Allan a few questions about the music. Check it out below! The term 'welter-fi' keeps coming up when people describe your sound. What's the story behind that, and how'd you land on this particular style? Early VdS stuff was recorded on a four-track cassette recorder. The recordings aren't great, but they're what I could manage. I’ve gotten better at recording myself since then, but there’s always a little something that's off: cymbals sound weird; something’s out of tune or crackling. Some of it is that I don’t know enough to fix it; some of it is in the performances, and some of it is just me, which is cool. Van der Saar will never be a polished, hi-fi studio thing, but it isn't lo-fi anymore. 'Welter-fi' feels like good middle ground. It used to be a throwaway term, but I like it now; it makes sense for what the project wants to be. You've got this really interesting dual life as both a photographer and musician. Do these two worlds ever collide in your creative process? I'm curious about your photography work and if it seeps into how you approach songwriting. Photography and music stay separate in practice, but they do bleed into each other. I'll often listen to demos or mixes while I'm editing photos. That's a time when my brain is pretty pliable and can handle a few things going on at once. There are lots of openings for ideas to get worked on in the background when I'm doing that kind of thing. The reverse is true when I'm writing or recording. I'll take a break and go for a wander with a camera, even if I don't take any pictures. Just being out and looking for things and seeing things can be a nice leveler. We're loving 'Truck Flattener.' Tell us about writing it and how you tap into your unique musical vibe. Most musicians can relate to a song starting with one main idea that gets taken over by other ideas as it gets worked on. That happened with 'Truck Flattener'. The clean part at the start was the primary riff. But once that longer set of sustained guitar notes came into play, the clean part got sent to the bench. From there, the song had a meaner, less dreamy feel. The sustain on those guitar parts was hard to manage, so the feedback came naturally. I borrowed the driving feel of the bassline from 'Hard Rain' by Shout Out Louds. If you ever need to convince yourself that tonight's the night, throw that tune on: it makes zero mistakes, and neither will you. You're handling all the instruments and production yourself. What's that process like building these songs from the ground up? The process is slow—I take forever. There’s a lot of problem-solving when you're on your own, and in my case, a lot of guessing, too. Recording alone can make you feel like you're wasting a roster spot—like you're totally useless. The intent is there. You want things to go well, but they don't because, at that moment, you’re really bad at all the things you’re trying to do. And then a few days later, you nail something, and everything’s amazing, and you feel like one of the cool kids again. That latter feeling is the reward. Let's talk about  Knights . There's a real vibe to this EP—what was happening in your life while you were putting it together? Life is mostly good, but like everyone, I go through things. I’ve also watched people go through a lot of stuff lately. I'm not talking about desperate, horrible, dark shit, but middle-aged, middle-class life shit that can still be big and heavy. I’m raising kids and going to work, which means a ton of stop/start moments, so my energy and attention already move in odd directions. And, of course, I'm reflecting on everything that's happening, and these reflections pile up in my head. So when weird life shit comes at you, a four-on-the-floor dance outro can start making a ton of sense. Sometimes I think of the weirdest things when I’m putting songs together. Random people I haven’t thought of in forever will pop into my head and stay for a visit. I'm like, "Why are you here?" and then they end up being part of the tune, and it's kind of like they're lingering, eating shit out of my fridge without asking, "Sorry dude, you're stuck with me."

There’s something beautifully unsettling about We Feed Alone’s latest release, “ONE ANOTHERS.” From the first riff, the track grips you in a relentless, grungy embrace, spiraling into a whirlwind of controlled chaos. With Eric Straton’s thunderous drumming, Doug Wagner’s pulsating basslines, and Scout Hughes’ hauntingly raw vocals, the band has crafted a visceral experience that resonates on a human level. At its core, “ONE ANOTHERS” is a hard-hitting anthem of resilience, exploring the universal need for connection when everything around us unravels. The lyrics, born from real-life disorientation, echo the eerie uncertainty of a bad trip—a metaphor for losing oneself in the turbulence of life. The song’s hypnotic rhythm and piercing guitars create an intoxicating blend of industrial and grunge, reminiscent of early Nine Inch Nails and Alice in Chains, yet distinctly fresh in its execution. The accompanying self-recorded music video intensifies the song’s dreamlike mania. Shot with raw, introspective energy, it plays with reflections, mirages, and Western-themed visuals, heightening the sense of disconnection and eerie self-exploration. Each shot builds toward an inevitable, chaotic climax—mirroring the track’s explosive descent into madness before emerging into cathartic clarity. We Feed Alone proves that they are not just making music—they’re crafting immersive, sonic journeys. If “ONE ANOTHERS” indicates what’s to come, fans are in for an electrifying ride. "ONE ANOTHERS" is a musically and visually intense and immersive experience. Can you describe the inspiration behind the track and how your personal experiences shaped its raw, chaotic energy? I [Scout] drew inspiration for one another from a psychedelic experience gone haywire. Often, when experimenting with them, one finds grounding in a “babysitter” or close friend who is on the same trip.  In this case many uninvited guests showed up on a different wavelength and totally derailed our experience. I tried to capture the fear and unease within not just the lyrics but also the music.  The song explores the idea of feeling lost and vulnerable and ultimately finding resilience through connection. How did you approach translating those emotions into sound, and what was the most challenging part of that process? We layered a lot of really unusual sounds and effects deep within the mix so that the listener doesn’t quite hear them but is still affected by them. I think the challenge lyrically was trying to not only tell the story but also capture the general unpleasant nature of the situation without being too wordy.  The music video has a hypnotic, surreal quality—playing with reflections, disconnection, and a Western-inspired aesthetic. How did the concept come together, and what do you hope viewers take away from it? Eric came up with the first mirror shot for the video, we talked about it and decided it was a great way to visually represent what happens when one is in the thralls of a psychedelic experience. And as far as the Western feel goes, I think it’s a reflection of my upbringing in the Arizona desert.  We Feed Alone blends industrial, grunge, and hard rock elements in a way that feels both nostalgic and fresh. How do you balance these influences while maintaining a sound that is uniquely your own? I [Scout] think that in the writing process, we don’t really think about a specific genre to fall into. That gives us the opportunity to write music that comes from a very blended influence.  As for me [Eric], I think that the music I grew up with in the 90s will inevitably have a huge impact on whatever I do.  Yet, as I get older, I am more open to really listening to anything and drawing influence from it.  I don’t have boundaries of what I allow myself to get into and dig far beyond whatever I ever would have when I was younger.    With "ONE ANOTHERS" marking a strong return for We Feed Alone, what can fans expect from you next? Are there any new sonic directions or themes you're excited to explore in upcoming releases? We absolutely have more to share. We’ve got another song ready and a video for it as well.  I honestly can’t wait to share it as it is quite different from One Anothers. Doug is singing on it, and it has more of a simple bass and drum-driven groove.  The video is fun, too, with some experimenting with new types of filming effects and layering.

Los Angeles-based indie rock sensation Viola Hutchinson is carving out a space for herself in the alt-pop landscape, and her latest release, "You Always Do," cements her status as a bold and emotionally raw storyteller. With a signature blend of dreamy indie rock, alternative grit, and a touch of Hannah Montana-inspired pop magic, Hutchinson’s music captures the messy beauty of young adulthood. "You Always Do" is more than just a heartbreak anthem—it’s a deep dive into the all-consuming experience of first love and the inevitable disillusionment that follows. Hutchinson paints a visceral picture of devotion turned exhaustion, of bending over backward for someone who remains emotionally immobile. The song builds like a slow realization, tracing the shift from infatuation to frustration before reaching its inevitable conclusion: why am I the one doing all the work? Written in just 20 minutes, the song spills out like an unfiltered journal entry, carrying the weight of emotions that have lingered long past their expiration date. Hutchinson’s lyrics cut straight to the heart of that universal moment—when you realize you’ve been giving your all to someone who never truly met you halfway. It’s the sonic embodiment of staring at an ex across the room and thinking, wow, I really did all that for you? The production of "You Always Do" is as immersive as the emotions it explores. Hutchinson’s delicate yet resolute vocals ride atop a wave of shimmering guitars, building tension with every verse. There’s a push and pull between vulnerability and defiance, echoing the emotional whiplash of young love. The chorus, soaring and anthemic, feels like a cathartic scream into the void—equal parts frustration and freedom. The alt-rock influences shine through, reminiscent of artists like Wolf Alice and Soccer Mommy, but Hutchinson’s unique flair keeps it distinctively her own. An Anthem for Anyone Who’s Ever Loved and Lost "You Always Do" is bound to resonate with listeners who have loved deeply and walked away even stronger. Hutchinson describes the song as a moment of clarity, and that energy translates seamlessly into her performance. Live audiences have already connected to its rawness, with fans approaching her post-show to share their own parallel heartbreak stories. As she puts it, her dream is for someone to hear the song and feel like their own diary has been stolen and turned into music—because what’s better than knowing someone else has felt exactly what you have? With her debut EP on the horizon, Viola Hutchinson is proving she’s a force to be reckoned with. "You Always Do" is just a taste of the emotional depth and sonic evolution she’s bringing to the table, and if this track is any indication, we’re in for something truly special.

Canadian country artist Angelica Appelman is making a powerful statement with her newest single, Finding My Feet . After surviving a life-altering car accident that left her with a serious brain injury and other lasting effects, Angelica has channeled her struggles into something truly inspiring—and Finding My Feet is the raw, emotional anthem of resilience we all need right now. The song, which Angelica co-wrote with a team of country heavyweights—Jesse Slack, Daryl Scott, and Rich Cloke—captures the essence of a journey that is both intensely personal and universally relatable. From the very first note, it’s clear this track isn’t just about country music; it’s about healing and reclaiming your strength in the face of adversity. The vulnerability in her voice resonates deeply, and the way she shares her story makes it impossible not to root for her every step of the way. Musically, Finding My Feet is the perfect blend of classic country soul with a modern edge. It’s the kind of song that lets you tap your foot while simultaneously making you think about your own life’s battles. The chorus hits hard, not just with its lyrics but with the sheer power of Angelica’s delivery. You can practically hear her determination as if each word is a step in the process of standing tall again. What makes Finding My Feet stand out even more is the way it doesn’t sugarcoat the journey. This isn’t the ‘feel-good country tune’ with a happy, shiny finish. It’s about the process—the ups and downs—of finding your footing after life throws you a curveball. Angelica is laying it all out there, and the authenticity is undeniable. It’s clear that Angelica Appelman has a unique way of connecting with her listeners—her journey isn’t just hers; it’s one that anyone who’s ever faced adversity can relate to. From her debut single “Happy Place” to her EP A Reason or a Season , she’s proven she’s a force to be reckoned with in the Canadian country scene. And with Finding My Feet , Angelica is about to take that next step toward becoming a household name. If you’ve ever faced the challenge of picking yourself back up, or if you’ve simply been in search of a song that speaks to the heart, Finding My Feet is your anthem. So mark your calendars for January 31st—this is a release you won’t want to miss. Your journey through recovery after such a life-changing accident is incredibly inspiring. How did music become part of your healing process, and how does it continue to play a role in your recovery? Thank you so much. That means the world to me! It was a damn long road, as I say in the song, but I am so glad to be on the other side and getting stronger each day. ☺ After my car accident, I couldn’t sing for a while due to neck pain, vocal trauma, and breathing difficulties. But one day, I picked up the guitar and started learning to play. It became a daily comfort, and on my better days, I began writing lyrics based on what I was feeling. When I felt like I had something worth sharing, I’d call my friend and trusted songwriter, David Madras. Even though I couldn’t look at screens for too long, he helped me bring the songs together melodically over the phone, patiently guiding me through what sometimes felt like scrambled ideas. During this time, I also leaned heavily on motivational Christian music, which gave me the strength and encouragement to keep going. Music became my emotional outlet and continues to be a source of inspiration in my recovery. On tough days, it’s my go-to to get me back on my feet—my daily dose of hope. I must have listened to Lauren Daigle’s “You Say” every night before bed. I have always been so passionate about the power of music in my life. It’s what I looked forward to then, and it’s still my healer now. You co-wrote Finding My Feet with some impressive collaborators like Jesse Slack and Daryl Scott. Can you walk us through the creative process behind the song and what it was like working with such talented songwriters? Jesse, Daryl, and Rich have been incredible mentors to me. They're such talented and experienced songwriters, and I knew I was in good hands. Working with them was a game-changer in how I approached telling my story. They encouraged me to focus less on every little detail of my personal experience and instead keep the storytelling simple and universal. Not everyone has been through a car accident, but everyone knows what it's like to struggle, to face tough moments, and to search for hope. By stripping it down and making the message more relatable, it allowed me to speak from the heart in a way that felt natural. That was such a valuable lesson—when you stop overthinking and just tell it like it is, the right words and emotions come together effortlessly. Sharing small stories and experiences helped create visuals that captured the message in a deeper, more impactful way than just saying, I struggled, but I found hope. It was about opening up and allowing the listeners to connect to the raw truth. The song feels deeply personal, almost as if we’re hearing your inner dialogue. How did you find the courage to be so vulnerable in sharing your story through music, and what do you hope listeners take away from it? This song is incredibly personal, and the only way I could really capture its truth was by being open and vulnerable about the emotions and thoughts I was experiencing. It was important for me to let the audience into the uncomfortable parts of my healing journey so that the message could truly resonate. Honestly, I sat on the song for a while, unsure if I was ready to share it. But when I started playing it live, and people began approaching me after shows to talk about how it impacted them, I knew it was something special. They shared their own vulnerabilities with me, and it felt like we were all connecting in a deep, real way. Releasing it into the world, though, was a different challenge. Once it’s out there, there’s no taking it back, and I worried about how it would affect the brand I’d worked so hard to build. However, I was reminded by fellow artists like Andrew Hyatt and The Reklaws how important it is to be vulnerable and share my story, especially when it connects to mental health. They’ve been brave in sharing their own struggles through their music, and that gave me the courage to push past my fears of what others might think. This song began as my story, my healing journey, but it’s become so much more. It’s my testimony to encourage others to keep going. It’s for that girl who feels lost, for anyone afraid to ask for help, for those who feel that sharing their struggles will change the way people see them. I want people to know they’re not alone. We all face challenges, and vulnerability isn’t a weakness—it’s a strength. It’s freeing to be real and let people see the truth because then we can help each other find hope together. You ’ve already made waves in the Canadian country scene with your previous releases. How has your music evolved from your debut single Happy Place to Finding My Feet , and what can fans expect from the full EP? My music has evolved a lot since “Happy Place,” mainly because I have evolved. I’ve grown as a person, artist, and performer. I’ve spent time exploring my voice and songwriting, learning what works for me through trial and error, live shows, and working with a team that truly allows me to be myself. They’ve helped me discover my strengths and pushed me to my full, authentic potential. I’m more confident now, and I’ve shifted my focus from pleasing others to creating music that’s true to me and my listeners. Fans can expect my upcoming EP, Breaking the Habit, to reflect this growth. It’s raw, honest, and confident, with themes of personal growth, healing, and breaking habits. The songs touch on self-worth, healthy relationships, taking ownership of life, and struggles we all face. It's my most genuine project yet, and I hope people find themselves in it, knowing that no matter the journey, it gets better. With Finding My Feet being such a raw and empowering anthem, what are your hopes for this release? How do you want people to feel when they hear this song, and what impact do you hope it will have on your growing audience? With “Finding My Feet,” my hope is that it resonates deeply with listeners and creates a sense of connection and authenticity. I’m working with the Canadian Mental Health Association to help spread this message of hope and reach an audience that will truly be impacted by it on a personal and communal level. The vulnerability in the song allows for a deeper bond with my growing audience, creating trust and giving them a chance to see who I truly am – the different parts of me. When people hear this song, I want them to feel empowered, like they’re not alone in their struggles, and that embracing who they are, having patience with where they are at, and having faith in a brighter future will help them keep moving forward. Ultimately, my goal is for fans to feel inspired and uplifted. I want this single to offer strength, vulnerability, and heart—something real and relatable that helps people feel seen and supported.

Texas-based metal band The Crowned is shaking the scene with their latest sonic assault, "Set You Free," featuring the powerhouse vocals of Eddie Hermida ( Suicide Silence, All Shall Perish ). This track is a brutal yet dynamic fusion of nu-metal, post-hardcore, and cinematic storytelling, proving once again that The Crowned refuses to be confined by genre boundaries. With production that hits like a freight train, "Set You Free" blends crushing guitar riffs, earth-shattering breakdowns, and guttural vocals that push the limits of intensity. Marc Coronado (vocals/drums) delivers an unrelenting vocal performance, matched by Hermida's signature ferocity, making for a visceral and unfiltered experience. The accompanying cinematic music video draws heavy inspiration from Snatch  (2000), recreating the underground boxing scene where a fighter is expected to take a fall. The visuals mirror the song's themes of struggle, defiance, and ultimate victory, capturing the track's raw aggression visually. Since forming in 2013, The Crowned has carved out its path in metal, sharing stages with heavyweights like Slipknot, Born of Osiris, and Ill Niño. Now, signed to Curtain Call Records, they're gearing up for a monumental 2025, with a string of new singles and high-energy performances set to dominate the global stage. Instagram

Marc E. Bassy has a way of crafting songs that feel both intimate and universal, and his latest single, Reminder , is no exception. Blending his signature smooth R&B sound with introspective lyricism, Reminder is a melodic anthem that showcases his growth as an artist while maintaining the infectious charm that has earned him a devoted fan base. At its core, Reminder is a song about self-reflection and love—two themes that Bassy effortlessly weaves together with soulful vocals and top-tier production. The track carries a mellow yet powerful energy, inviting listeners to pause and take in the weight of their emotions. Whether it’s a reminder of a past love or a message of self-worth, Bassy delivers it all with the finesse and authenticity that has defined his career. The production of Reminder complements the emotional weight of the lyrics, balancing crisp percussion with atmospheric instrumentation that creates a warm, immersive soundscape. The track is yet another testament to Bassy’s ability to fuse contemporary R&B with timeless storytelling, making it a standout addition to his already impressive discography. With a track record of delivering chart-worthy hits and a fan base that continues to grow, Reminder  is bound to resonate with both longtime followers and new listeners. As Marc E. Bassy continues to evolve as an artist, this single serves as a compelling glimpse into what’s next for him. If Reminder  is anything to go by, his next era is shaping up to be his most compelling yet.

2025 belongs to the artists who dare to be different. As we enter 2025, the music industry is buzzing with an energy unlike any we've seen in recent years. It's a year filled with possibility and creativity, with artists pushing the limits of genre, production, and performance. What's most exciting is that this wave of innovation isn't just happening in the mainstream—it's emerging from the underground, independent scenes, and artists challenging the status quo. As an independent music platform, we've always made it our mission to highlight the voices, sounds, and stories shaping music's future before they break. Our community knows we're not here to cover the latest chart-toppers but to bring you the artists on the cusp of greatness. We're dedicated to curating the next generation of stars, helping you discover music that's as fresh, exciting, and boundary-pushing as our world. In a music landscape where the definition of "success" constantly shifts, one thing remains constant: the hunger for new talent, ideas, and sounds. And that's where we come in. We scour the underground, listen to countless demos, and dive into emerging scenes to bring you a list of artists who follow trends and set them. 2025 will be a year when some of the most exciting and innovative artists break through. But it's not just about discovering talent—it's about recognizing the stories they tell and the unique sounds they create. This year, we've rounded up the top rising artists that our community needs to know because they're not just the next big thing—they're shaping the music of tomorrow. At BUZZ, we are privileged to be part of that journey and want to share it with you. We believe in the power of music to connect, inspire, and evolve, and we're committed to bringing you the freshest voices on the scene. These artists will be defining the musical landscape for years to come, and we're thrilled to highlight their journeys. The Top Artists To Watch In 2025 Artemas: The Rising Dark-Pop King Artemas is an artist who's quickly making a name for himself as one of the most exciting new talents to watch in 2025. His music is sexy and boundary-pushing, seamlessly blending indie rock, electronic music, and darkwave pop. Known for his magnetic stage presence and ability to connect with audiences on a personal level, Artemas is poised to break into the mainstream in 2025. His unique sound and bold creative vision make him one of the standout artists to watch in the coming year. Anna Duboc: The Viral Vocal Powerhouse Anna Duboc is a name you won’t be able to ignore in 2025. As a singer, songwriter, and producer with over 50 million streams, Anna Duboc has proven she has the talent and the numbers to back it up. Her jaw-dropping performance as Velma Kelly in Chicago  went viral on TikTok, racking up 5 million views and solidifying her reputation as a powerhouse vocalist and performer. With a rapidly growing fanbase, a viral presence, and an undeniable ability to connect through music, Anna Duboc is more than just a rising artist—she’s a force shaping the sound of 2025. Lola Young: The Voice Of Soul Is Back Lola Young is an artist whose soulful voice and bold, genre-defying sound are set to make waves in 2025. With a powerful blend of R&B, indie, and alternative influences, Lola has already captivated audiences with her raw, emotive vocals and introspective lyrics. Her ability to tackle themes of love, identity, and social justice with vulnerability and strength has earned her critical acclaim, and her rising fanbase grows with each release. Lola's unwavering authenticity sets her apart—she's unafraid to experiment with her sound, infusing her music with a fresh mix of styles while staying true to her roots. Isabella Chiarini: The Pop Powerhouse with a Purpose Isabella Chiarini is bringing fresh energy to the pop scene in 2025. With a sound that blends the best of pop’s many sub-genres, the Hamilton-based singer-songwriter is crafting music that’s both uplifting and deeply personal. Her mission? To inspire confidence, authenticity, and self-love through her music. Having honed her craft under industry greats like Teresa Nocita and Canadian Idol  winner Brian Melo, Chiarini is no stranger to the spotlight. Her infectious melodies and heartfelt storytelling make her a rising force in the industry, drawing in young audiences who connect with her empowering lyrics. With a natural ability to turn life’s challenges into anthems of resilience and joy, Isabella Chiarini is proving she’s not just another pop artist—she’s a voice for her generation, and one you won’t want to miss in 2025. Bekka Dowland: Country’s Next Storytelling Sensation Bekka Dowland is redefining country music in 2025 with her fresh yet timeless sound. Rooted in the storytelling tradition of country greats like George Strait and Alan Jackson, the Massachusetts-born singer-songwriter infuses her music with heartfelt emotion and modern pop influences. Her latest single, Ain’t Thinkin’ Bout You , is the perfect follow-up to Malibu , closing out one chapter and stepping into a new era of resilience and growth. Meanwhile, her long-awaited EP, Failures & Fairytales , is a deeply personal exploration of love, heartbreak, and the moments in between—two years in the making. With a gift for turning life’s ups and downs into unforgettable melodies, Bekka Dowland is emerging as one of country pop’s most exciting new voices. If you’re not already listening, now’s the time to start. Final Thoughts As 2025 unfolds, one thing is clear—this is a year of fearless artistry, genre-defying creativity, and voices that demand to be heard. From viral sensations to independent powerhouses, these artists aren’t just making music; they’re shaping the sound of tomorrow. But the real magic of music lies in its ability to evolve, surprise, and connect. The artists featured here are only a glimpse into the innovation happening across the industry, and the most exciting part? This is just the beginning. Whether you’re diving into country storytelling, pop anthems, darkwave beats, or soul-infused melodies, one thing is certain: 2025 belongs to the artists who dare to be different. And we’ll be here to bring you every beat, every breakthrough, and every moment that defines the music of the future.