top of page

Search this site

13614 results found with an empty search

  • 5 Reels Ideas That Will Boost Your Music’s Reach Overnight (And Why You’re Probably Not Doing Them Yet)

    In today’s music landscape, if you’re not using Instagram Reels, you might as well be handing your audience to someone else. Short-form video is king, and Reels are the throne room where independent artists can explode their reach, rack up streams, and build a real fanbase. Whether you’re dropping tracks, teasing new music, or just letting people in on your world, Reels are where discovery happens. Let’s dive into five content ideas that can fuel your next viral moment and put your music in front of thousands, if not millions. 5 Reels Ideas That Will Boost Your Music’s Reach Overnight 1. The Studio Session Tease (aka Your Sonic Origin Story) Fans don’t just want to hear the final product—they want to see how it’s made. A quick Reel showing a clip of you recording, producing, or even struggling through a verse instantly builds connection. People love the process. Show raw moments. Whether it’s tracking vocals, layering beats, or a glimpse at your DAW with a caption like “This hook almost broke me”, this transparency breeds loyalty. Plus, it hits major music-related SEO keywords: studio session, behind the scenes, recording process, and music production. 2. Lyric Drops That Stop the Scroll Text-based Reels with powerful lyrics over engaging visuals can stop casual scrollers in their tracks. Use a moody or vibrant visual from a video shoot or even something abstract, and overlay lyrics that punch people in the gut—or make them think. These lyric-focused clips serve double duty: they showcase your songwriting skills and they’re easily shareable, making them prime content for fans and music pages alike. Keywords to target: song lyrics, indie artist, songwriting, music reels. 3. Fan Reaction Collabs (Yes, Even If You’re Just Starting) If you have fan reactions, use them. If you don’t, ask your inner circle to film their authentic response to hearing your track for the first time. Stitch or duet these clips into your Reels. Fans love feeling like they’re part of the story, and social proof is gold. It shows new listeners that real people are moved by your music. Don’t sleep on reaction content—it’s how TikTok helped build careers for artists like JVKE and GAYLE. 4. The Story Behind the Song (Because Context Converts) People don’t just stream music—they connect with why  it was made. Use Reels to tell the backstory behind your latest release. What inspired the track? What does it mean to you? Maybe you wrote it after a breakup, during a tour, or as a protest anthem. Get real. Vulnerability cuts through the noise and gives your music more meaning to listeners. 5. Before & After: The Transformation Hook Humans are wired to love transformation stories. Show the raw demo version of your track side by side with the final mastered version. Or, post a Reel showing your first home-recorded EP compared to your newest professional release. This format highlights your growth and invites fans to celebrate the journey with you. It’s also an algorithm crack—viewers love “glow-up” style content. Final Buzz Here’s the truth: artists blowing up in 2025 aren’t just making great music; they’re mastering how to market  it, especially through short-form video. Reels aren’t just another trend. They are the frontline for fan discovery, engagement, and the algorithms that decide what gets heard. Whether you’re an indie singer-songwriter, a hip-hop heavyweight in the making, or a bedroom producer with beats the world needs to hear, these Reels ideas can flip the switch from obscurity to momentum.

  • Florian Picasso Launches DKD Records, Ushering in a New Era of Independent Electronic Music

    Florian Picasso , the French-Vietnamese DJ and producer, has announced the launch of his independent label, DKD Records . This move marks a significant step in his artistic evolution, emphasizing a commitment to creative freedom and a fresh sonic direction. The debut release under DKD Records is the Hi Heels  EP, a two-track project that introduces a blend of hard groove, hard house, and hard dance elements. This EP reflects Picasso's desire to explore a more underground and cinematic club sound, aligning with his broader Dekadance movement—a platform aimed at fostering genre-blending electronic music and artistic expression. In addition to the label, Picasso has plans to expand Dekadance into a multifaceted creative platform, including a forthcoming radio show. This initiative underscores his dedication to pushing boundaries within the electronic music scene and supporting like-minded artists The launch of DKD Records signifies Picasso's transition towards a more independent and self-directed phase in his career, building upon his previous collaborations with artists like Martin Garrix and Steve Aoki. With this new venture, he aims to cultivate a space that champions innovation and artistic autonomy within the electronic music industry. Hi Heels  is now available on major streaming platforms, offering listeners a glimpse into the dynamic and evolving soundscape that DKD Records promises to deliver.

  • Indie Week 2025 Levels Up With Star-Studded Keynotes, Cutting-Edge Panels, and Industry Game-Changers

    The independent music industry’s flagship event, Indie Week 2025 , is making waves once again with a powerhouse lineup of keynotes, panels, workshops, and groundbreaking initiatives set to elevate the indie scene. Returning to the InterContinental New York Times Square  from June 9 to June 12, this year’s conference promises to be the most ambitious yet. Leading the charge are newly announced keynote speakers Steve Savoca  and Bryce McLaughlin of Apple Music, alongside Dan Runcie, the influential mind behind Trapital, a go-to resource dissecting the business strategies of hip-hop’s elite. They’ll join already confirmed thought leaders Cherie Hu ( Water & Music ) and Shira Perlmutter ( U.S. Copyright Office ) to tackle the pressing challenges and future opportunities for the independent music world. But Indie Week isn’t just about big names—it’s about action. The 17th annual edition expands its programming with over 60 panels, workshops, and international roundtables, delving into hot-button topics from AI and catalog strategy to sync licensing, global growth, monetization, and even music journalism in 2025. Workshops this year are supercharged with hands-on insights from the likes of beatBread, Trolley, EMPIRE’s Supply Chain, MusixMatch, Beatdapp, Spotify, NORDER, ONErpm, Bandcamp, Chartmetric, and Red Bull Records. Plus, legal minds can get in on the action with a CLE series curated by Perkins Coie LLP. New for 2025, the IndieVest '25 track will connect the indie music scene directly with the financial sector. The program includes a pitch competition in collaboration with Triple G Ventures, bringing innovators face-to-face with top investors like Lorine Pendleton (125 Ventures) and Bob Cisneros (Primary Wave). It’s a rare shot for creators to turn visionary ideas into backed ventures. " Indie Week has always been the meeting ground for where creativity, commerce, and community collide ," said one organizer. " This year, we're taking that to the next level ." With over 1,800 curated business meetings and countless networking opportunities designed specifically for the global indie sector, Indie Week 2025 is where the future of independent music will be shaped. Badges are on sale now . If you’re serious about navigating—and thriving in—the evolving music industry, this is where you need to be.

  • Cupid: The Line Dance King Who's Still Leading the Party

    With over 418 million streams on his iconic hit Cupid Shuffle , six-time multi-platinum recording artist Cupid has cemented his legacy as a cultural icon and a driving force in the global line dance community. Known for his infectious energy and ability to unite people, Cupid inspires generations through music, dance, and community engagement. Last month, Cupid created another viral moment when he surprised the LSU Women's Basketball team and their coach, teaching them the moves to his hit dance Flex , which has already amassed over 42 million streams across platforms. These spontaneous and joyful appearances underscore his dedication to spreading positivity and getting people of all ages on their feet. Cupid recently released the music video for his latest single, Pop That Fan , where he hits the dance floor alongside renowned line dance choreographers nationwide. The upbeat track is a call to celebration, inviting fans to join the movement—literally—and pop open a fan while dancing along. His career is also marked by record-breaking achievements, including the 2008 Guinness World Record for the largest line dance ever assembled, with over 17,000 participants. In 2017, New Orleans and Louisiana Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser issued proclamations honoring Cupid's contributions to music and culture. Beyond his music, Cupid's influence has attracted significant partnerships with brands like McDonald's and Walmart, the latter earning a Shorty Award nomination. His widespread impact has been recognized by media giants such as Rolling Stone , The New York Times , MTV, BET, CNN, and BBC, to name a few.

  • Mahoney Joins Forces with KD the Poet for “Bay Luv”

    The Bay Area has long been a breeding ground for innovative R&B and hip-hop talent, and rising singer-songwriter Mahoney is proving she’s next in line to carry that torch. Her latest single, “ Bay Luv ,” featuring acclaimed lyricist KD the Poet , is more than just a smooth R&B track—it’s an ode to California’s unique blend of laid-back living, soulful storytelling, and deep community roots. From the opening notes, “Bay Luv” draws you into a world where every beat feels like a sunset cruise down the Pacific Coast Highway. Mahoney’s vocals are effortlessly rich and emotive, gliding over the track’s warm production with the kind of ease that makes you stop and listen. KD the Poet’s verses add another layer of depth, blending heartfelt lyricism with a confident, poetic flow that complements Mahoney’s melodies perfectly. “ This collaboration with KD the Poet was something really special for me ,” Mahoney shares. “ We both wanted to create something that felt organic, smooth, and effortless, but with a lot of heart. The sound really speaks to that California vibe, where the pace is slower and you can just vibe with the music .” But “Bay Luv” is more than just a vibe—it’s a snapshot of Mahoney’s evolution as an artist. Over the past few years, she’s carved out a space in the Bay Area’s thriving R&B scene, known for her ability to pair silky vocals with raw, relatable lyrics. Whether she’s singing about love, self-discovery, or the struggles that come with pursuing a dream, Mahoney brings an authenticity that resonates with listeners across genres. KD the Poet, equally passionate about the craft, brings a storyteller’s touch to his verse on “Bay Luv.” His words don’t just ride the beat—they paint pictures, tapping into emotions that listeners might not even realize they’re carrying. Together, Mahoney and KD have created a song that doesn’t just sound good, it feels good. The chemistry between the two artists is undeniable. It’s the kind of collaboration that feels destined, blending old-school R&B sensibilities with modern production and lyricism that speaks to today’s audiences. “Bay Luv” is more than a single; it’s a statement. It’s Mahoney and KD the Poet planting their flag in the rich musical soil of the West Coast, honoring the past while boldly shaping the future of R&B and soul music.

  • How to Build an Email List That Turns Fans Into Superfans

    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.

  • Black Note Graffiti Announces Summer Shows + Unleash Vinyl Pre-Order

    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

  • Thomas Orlina’s “Diamonds In The Crowd” Video Is a Sparkling Celebration of Self-Love and Identity

    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.

  • Pulsar Radio Launches into Orbit with "Father Skye"

    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!

  • 98° Makes a Bold Return With “Stranger Things (Have Happened)”

    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!

bottom of page