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Vancouver-based singer-songwriter NORA has built a reputation for defying convention, and his latest release, Running On Fumes , is no exception. With a sound that refuses to be boxed into a single genre, NORA seamlessly blends nostalgic textures with modern experimentation, resulting in a track that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant. At its core, Running On Fumes is an anthem for those who push forward even when there’s nothing left in the tank. The song captures the feeling of mental, emotional, and physical depletion, yet there’s an underlying sense of determination woven through its melodies and lyrics. NORA’s signature approach to breaking traditional song structures is evident here—his unconventional timing and vocal delivery create an immersive, almost hypnotic experience for listeners. The production is just as daring as the composition. The track opens with haunting synths and distant, echoing vocals that gradually build into a layered, emotionally charged crescendo. There’s a rawness to the sound—textured percussion, atmospheric reverb, and a pulse that mirrors the feeling of trudging forward despite exhaustion. This masterful interplay of sound and emotion makes Running On Fumes a standout in NORA’s catalog. One of the most striking aspects of NORA’s artistry is his ability to blend the past with the future. Running On Fumes incorporates sonic elements reminiscent of ’80s synthwave, alternative rock, and modern indie-electronic, all while maintaining an unpredictability that keeps listeners engaged. This willingness to experiment and disrupt conventional structures is what sets NORA apart. His upcoming album is poised to continue this trend—melding fluidity, experimentation, and an unapologetic departure from the norm. By refusing to be confined by labels or industry expectations, NORA is carving out his own lane in contemporary music, proving that authenticity and innovation can coexist.

When D-Shot steps to the mic, you know the Bay Area legend isn’t here to play games. His latest single, “ Hot Water ,” is a masterclass in West Coast rap, seamlessly blending streetwise storytelling, razor-sharp wordplay, and a bassline so heavy it might shake your speakers off the shelf. With this track, D-Shot not only reclaims his title as the “Godfather of Independent Rap” but also reminds us why the Bay Area is a cultural cornerstone of hip-hop. For those new to the game, D-Shot is more than just a solo artist—he’s hip-hop royalty. As a founding member of The Click alongside his siblings E-40, Suga-T, and cousin B-Legit, he helped define the Bay’s underground sound. Now, with “Hot Water,” he’s brought that family-first ethos full circle, collaborating with Cyda Lean, Turf Talk, and Bleezo to deliver a track that feels like a rap cipher you’d pay good money to witness. Each artist holds their own, but it’s D-Shot’s commanding presence that anchors the song. His deep, deliberate delivery cuts through the ominous beat, painting vivid pictures of struggle, survival, and triumph. The hook is a mantra—gritty, anthemic, and impossible to forget. Produced by Cyda Lean, “Hot Water” is pure West Coast fire. The crisp snares, rumbling bassline, and moody undertones create a cinematic backdrop for the lyrical storytelling. The production doesn’t just support the rappers; it amplifies them, elevating the track to anthem status. This is a beat that commands attention, whether you’re blasting it on your way to work or cruising the streets in a tricked-out ’57 Chevy Bel Air. Speaking of Chevys, the “Hot Water” video, directed by Jae Synth, is a visual love letter to Bay Area culture. Set in a Sacramento auto dismantling yard, the video is steeped in gritty realism, punctuated by pops of vibrant color and energy. From the gleaming gold rims of the iconic ’57 Chevy to the fluid moves of turf dancers, every frame feels authentically Bay. The video is as much about storytelling as the song itself, immersing viewers in a world where creativity and resilience shine despite the darkness. It’s not just a backdrop—it’s a stage for D-Shot and his crew to showcase the culture that shaped them. “Hot Water” isn’t just a song—it’s a statement. It’s a reminder that D-Shot has lived, breathed, and bled the culture he represents. More than that, it’s a showcase of how Bay Area rap has always been ahead of its time, blending grit with innovation and authenticity with flair.

Parisian producer Delabeat is no stranger to bending musical traditions into something entirely new. His latest release, “ Alouette, ” takes a well-worn French nursery rhyme and flips it into a hypnotic blend of urban, lo-fi jazz, and house music. The result? A track that feels like nostalgia took a wrong turn into a neon-lit alleyway and decided to stay awhile. For those unfamiliar, the original Alouette is a French folk tune about plucking a lark ( alouette in French). But Delabeat, ever the innovator, replaces the bird with something a little more… 21st century. In the music video, the feathered creature of old is swapped out for a DJI drone, a subtle but powerful commentary on how technology has seamlessly taken flight in our everyday lives. It’s a modern reworking of tradition, where the lark’s organic charm is substituted by an omnipresent mechanical eye in the sky. Delabeat’s signature style—melancholic yet kinetic—is in full force here. The house-driven rhythm anchors the track, while lo-fi textures wash over the beat like a faded memory trying to resurface. It’s a conversation between past and present, where the warmth of analog tones meets electronic precision. If Kaytranada had a laid-back, introspective cousin who spent his time crate-digging for jazz records in Montmartre, Alouette would be the track playing in his headphones. Delabeat’s fascination with genre fusion is evident throughout his discography, and Alouette serves as another example of his ability to transform the familiar into something fresh. He describes the song as an invitation to reflect on how technology has gradually replaced the visions of the past, and this theme is embedded within every layer of the track. Lo-fi synth pads pulse beneath crisp house beats, creating an interplay of organic and digital textures that mirror this shift in real time. As an Italian-born artist based in Paris, Delabeat’s work is inherently global. He fluidly moves between French and English compositions, collaborating with an impressive lineup of international artists, including Pawel Orlow, Sakti, Dyla, Mife, and Sidney. His genre-blurring approach ensures that while his music is deeply tied to European electronic traditions, it also appeals to a broad, worldwide audience. At its core, “Alouette” is a track about transformation—how something innocent and simple can evolve into something completely different in a modern context. It’s playful, introspective, and incredibly danceable all at once.  Your music blends urban, lo-fi jazz, and house in a way that feels effortless. How did your background—from Italy to Paris—influence your sound and artistic approach? Growing up with a French father and an Italian mother, I was surrounded by the beautiful sounds of artists like Oxmo Puccino, Hocus Pocus, Neffa, DJ Ax, Gazzara, Frankie hi-nrg, and many others. However, the songs that truly ignited my love for the acid-jazz and urban genres are *Mr. Tout Le Monde* and *Place 54* by Hocus Pocus—they left a lasting mark on my musical identity. You’ve collaborated with artists from different countries and styles. How do these collaborations shape your music, and is there an artist you dream of working with? Collaborating with Hocus Pocus would be a dream come true. And then, there’s the ultimate legend—Kaytranada. Having one of my tracks remixed by him would feel like the perfect seal on a project fully realized. “Alouette” is such a creative reimagining of a French nursery rhyme. What sparked the idea of transforming it into an urban house track, and what does the DJI drone symbolize to you? *Alouette* is a part of my childhood—I used to sing it with my classmates during school days. The idea came from reflecting on how quickly everything is changing and how a symbol from the past can evolve into a modern icon. The DJI drone represents this transformation—it’s a symbol of how technology now touches every aspect of our lives. There’s a strong theme of nostalgia meeting modernity in ‘Alouette.’ Do you see this concept playing a larger role in your future projects? Absolutely. I love the idea that the past can live on in the future—and vice versa. I believe music is the thread that connects every era. You’ve mentioned influences like Kaytranada and acid jazz—what was your sonic vision for ‘Alouette,’ and how did you balance classic elements with modern electronic textures? Honestly, I just followed an inner impulse. I think music has this unique quality—it’s like mixing two colored liquids together. Acid jazz blends with house, merges with lo-fi, and intertwines with a traditional folk song. That’s how an old nursery rhyme from the past can become a fresh, new musical life force.

Hailing from Oklahoma City, singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Rebekah Ruyle is no stranger to pouring her heart into music. Her latest single, Left Out , is a soul-stirring acoustic pop/R&B track that encapsulates the universal sting of isolation. With its heartfelt lyricism and real-instrument production, Left Out is not just a song but an experience—one that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever felt overlooked. Written in 2020 during the throes of the pandemic, Left Out stems from a particularly painful period in Ruyle’s life. As a dedicated worker stepping up to cover shifts for others, she found herself blindsided when she was the one laid off due to managerial changes. That professional setback, combined with her natural sensitivity in friendships, led to an overwhelming sense of abandonment. Instead of bottling up her emotions, Ruyle turned to what she knows best—music. Left Out became an anthem of raw emotion, channeling feelings of exclusion, loss, and self-reflection into a beautifully haunting melody. What makes Left Out stand apart is its authenticity. The track is recorded exclusively with real instruments, giving it an organic warmth that’s rare in an era dominated by digital production. Ruyle herself plays the drums and provides all the vocals, while her talented collaborators—Logan Kelley (guitar), KENNA (keys), and Riley Luttrell (bass)—bring the song’s rich sonic texture to life. The result is a deeply immersive listening experience, where every beat and chord feels like a heartbeat echoing Ruyle’s emotional journey. Beyond its melancholic beauty, Left Out serves as a reminder that loneliness is a universal emotion. Ruyle hopes that listeners walk away from the song feeling understood. “It’s easy to feel lonely even when surrounded by people,” she explains. “But I think this release does a good job of expressing those feelings, and I hope other people relate to it like I do and know that it’s a common thing to feel.” While Left Out is a deeply personal solo release, Ruyle is also making waves in the music scene as a member of The Wavelength . As the band’s drummer and one of its lead singers, she continues to showcase her versatility as a musician. Her ability to navigate different roles—both behind the kit and at the mic—adds another layer of depth to her artistry, making her one to watch in the alternative and acoustic pop landscape.

Ever notice how a rainy day makes you want to write a moody ballad, or how the warmth of summer inspires feel-good anthems? Weather has a powerful influence on emotions, creativity, and ultimately, songwriting.  Whether it's the brooding intensity of a thunderstorm or the carefree energy of a sunny afternoon, the climate around us can shape melodies, lyrics, and a song's overall vibe. Let's dive into how different weather conditions can influence songwriting and how artists can use these elements to fuel their creative process. 1. Rain There’s a reason so many sad songs are written on rainy days. The steady rhythm of raindrops, the gray skies, and the chill in the air create a mood of introspection. Rain often evokes nostalgia, heartbreak, or deep thought, making it the perfect backdrop for soulful ballads, acoustic storytelling, or lo-fi melodies. Many artists have used rain as inspiration, including Adele with " Set Fire to the Rain ," Billie Eilish with " When the Party’s Over , " and The Beatles with " Rain ." These songs capture the emotional weight that rain often brings, weaving in themes of loss, reflection, and change. If you’re looking for inspiration, try sitting by a window with a notebook or instrument on a rainy day. The rhythmic patter of the rain can guide your lyrics and melodies, helping you channel that introspective energy into your songwriting. 2. Sunshine Bright, sunny days bring a surge of positive energy, optimism, and adventure. Sunshine is synonymous with good times, vacations, and freedom, translating into upbeat, energetic songwriting. Whether it’s a beachy pop hit, a summer road trip anthem, or a festival banger, sunny weather fuels songs that make people want to move. Pharrell Williams ’ " Happy ," Katrina and the Waves ’ " Walking on Sunshine ," and Calvin Harris ’ " Summer "  all embody the lightheartedness and carefree energy of warm weather. These songs thrive on bright instrumentation, catchy hooks, and vibrant production that reflect the energy of a perfect sunny day. When the sun’s out, take your creative process outdoors! Bring your guitar to the park, go for a walk with your voice recorder, or just absorb the natural energy. Writing in the sunlight can uplift your mood and naturally steer your song toward an uplifting vibe. 3. Snow Winter brings stillness, nostalgia, and sometimes isolation, making it a great time for deep, poetic songwriting. The muffled quiet of snowfall can inspire soft, ethereal melodies, while the biting cold may evoke themes of longing, loneliness, or warmth found in relationships. Songs like Fleet Foxes ’ " White Winter Hymnal ," Taylor Swift’s " Back to December ," and Bon Iver’s " Holocene "  beautifully capture the winter aesthetic, often using gentle melodies, poetic lyrics, and layered production to reflect the season's emotional weight. To translate winter’s stillness into music, try using soft, layered sounds like reverb-drenched vocals or ambient synths. Let the quiet and calmness of a snowy day shape your songwriting, embracing its reflective nature. 4. Storms Thunderstorms bring raw energy and unpredictability, making them an incredible source of inspiration for dramatic compositions. The booming thunder, flashing lightning, and howling wind can fuel aggressive rock riffs, cinematic soundscapes, or deeply emotional storytelling. Imagine Dragons ’ " Thunder ," Bob Dylan’ s " Hurricane ," and Prince’s " Purple Rain "  are just a few songs that embody the intensity of stormy weather. Whether through powerful lyrics, dynamic instrumentation, or heavy beats, these songs capture the drama and emotion that storms often bring. If you’re feeling stuck in your songwriting, try listening to storm sounds as a backdrop while writing—whether it's a thunderstorm playlist or recording the real thing. Let the intensity push your creativity toward bold, emotional songwriting. 5. Fog & Overcast Skies Fog and cloudy weather create a sense of mystery, eeriness, and introspection. Many artists use overcast days as inspiration for dreamy, moody, or even eerie tracks. Whether it's alternative rock, indie folk, or electronic music, gloomy weather adds an extra layer of emotional depth. Songs like Lana Del Rey ’s " Born to Die , " Radiohead’s " Street Spirit (Fade Out) , " and The Weeknd’s " The Hills "  capture the brooding, cinematic feel that fog and cloudy days evoke. These tracks lean into minor chords, haunting melodies, and atmospheric production to create an immersive experience. Experiment with minor chords, reverbs, and darker melodies when writing on gray, cloudy days. The atmosphere itself can shape your sound, helping you craft music that carries a sense of mystery and depth. Whether you're staring out the window at a stormy skyline or soaking up the sun on a warm afternoon, weather is an underrated but powerful influence on songwriting. The trick is to embrace the mood it creates and channel it into your music.

A home studio setup isn't just about the right microphone, audio interface, or DAW—ergonomics play a massive role in your creative workflow. If you spend hours producing music, editing podcasts, or mixing beats, a high-quality laptop stand can transform your space, improving comfort, reducing strain, and optimizing your gear setup. We've rounded up five game-changing laptop stands that will elevate your home studio experience, offering stability, flexibility, and a professional edge. 1. Lamicall Adjustable Laptop Stand If you’re looking for a sleek, adjustable stand that adapts to your needs, the Lamicall Adjustable Laptop Stand  is a top pick. With its 360-degree rotating base, you can effortlessly adjust your screen angle while recording, mixing, or video conferencing. The sturdy aluminum build keeps your laptop cool and stable, preventing overheating during long sessions. 2. Amazon Basics Ergonomic and Foldable Laptop Stand Not all game-changing products come with a hefty price tag. The Amazon Basics Ergonomic and Foldable Laptop Stand  is a minimalist, no-fuss option that provides excellent elevation, reducing neck strain and improving posture. It folds flat when not in use, making it perfect for compact setups or mobile producers who switch between locations. 3. BESIGN LS03 Aluminum Laptop Stand If you want a rock-solid stand that keeps your laptop in place, the BESIGN LS03 Aluminum Laptop Stand  is an excellent choice. Its elevated design improves airflow, preventing your laptop from overheating during long recording sessions. Plus, the rubberized grips ensure your laptop stays secure, even when you're working with heavy MIDI controllers or external gear. 4. Tonmom Laptop Stand A home studio doesn’t always stay in one place. If you like to move between different rooms or take your setup on the go, the Tonmom Laptop Stand  is a fantastic option. It's super lightweight, folds flat, and still provides solid support for your laptop. Despite its portable design, it doesn’t sacrifice stability, making it a great travel companion for mobile producers and remote workers. 5. OMOTON Laptop Stand If you work with an external monitor and peripherals, the OMOTON Laptop Stand  is a game-changer. Instead of keeping your laptop flat on the desk, this vertical stand holds it upright, saving space and keeping your setup clean. Its adjustable width fits most laptops, and the silicone padding prevents scratches. This is perfect for producers who want to keep their workspace minimalist and efficient. Your laptop is the heart of your home studio, and the right stand can make all the difference in comfort, organization, and overall workflow efficiency. Whether you need adjustability, portability, or a space-saving solution, there’s a laptop stand here that will revolutionize your creative setup.

Las Vegas-based, multi-charting artist T.M. is turning up the heat with his latest single, " WHOA! "—a playful, high-energy track that celebrates the female form in a fun and irresistibly catchy way. With roots in Atlanta's rich hip-hop culture and a growing presence in the pop scene, T.M. blends vibrant production, dynamic flows, and an unforgettable hook to craft a song primed for repeat listeners. From the jump, "WHOA!" sets the tone with infectious beats and an uptempo rhythm that instantly pulls listeners in. T.M.'s charismatic delivery shines through, effortlessly riding the production while delivering lyrics that radiate confidence and appreciation. The song's playful nature is elevated by its smooth blend of hip-hop swagger and pop appeal, making it a track that feels just as at home in the club as on a party playlist. "WHOA!" marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for T.M. Under his recently inked label deal with DJ J Spins' Wild Dogs Ent , he's gearing up for significant collaborations, including a highly anticipated release with Lil Wayne. If "WHOA!" is any indication, T.M. is poised to make serious waves in the industry. Whether you're looking for a track to turn up to or need a feel-good anthem, "WHOA!" delivers in every way—leaving listeners hitting repeat and, as T.M. hopes, following along for what's next. "WHOA!" is about appreciating the female form in fun, playful ways. What inspired you to create this track, and how did you approach making it catchy and meaningful? Living in Las Vegas, you can get inspired anywhere you look. There's eye candy all around at any given moment. I approach every track sort of the same way, by coming up with the hook first. I believe coming up with a catchy, memorable hook is one of the most important steps of the song writing process. This one came to me almost instantly, as the subject matter is on my mind about 10 billion times a day. Congratulations on signing a label deal with Wild Dogs Ent! How has this partnership influenced your upcoming releases, and what can fans expect from your next few drops? Thank you. This partnership has helped me believe in myself and my artistry a bit more. Which has led to me investing heavily into my next several releases. Also, having the labels support both financial and marketing-wise is a huge help. Been a long time pushing things solo. So it's nice to have some support. Fans can expect some major collabs for the next few releases, and non-stop relentless promotion. Your upcoming collab with Lil Wayne is a massive moment! Can you give us a sneak peek into how that collaboration came about and what fans can expect from the track? Definitely a massive moment. I'm beyond stoked as you could imagine. This collaboration came about via some industry networking behind the scenes. Just putting myself out there vibing with the right people. Grinding, trying to level up my game. Constantly trying to get my name into bigger conversations. As an artist from Atlanta who is now making moves in Las Vegas, how have both cities influenced your sound and career journey? I think coming from Atlanta gives me that underlying southern sound and swagger that will forever be present in my style, instilled in me growing up listening to the legends of that city like Outkast, Goodie Mob, T.I., Lil Jon, and so many more. Las Vegas helped me polish my own distinct sound after being so deeply involved with the night life scene out here constantly immersed in dance music. It taught me an undying work ethic. There's a lot of no's hidden behind those bright lights but you have to persevere to turn dreams to realities. Living in Vegas I've met a lot of producers and DJs that have become great friends and music partners. You never know who you'll meet on a night out in Las Vegas. "WHOA!" is meant to bring good vibes and make people smile. How important is that feel-good energy in your music, and how do you balance fun with authenticity in your songwriting? The feel good energy just naturally shows up in the music. When you come from a place of authenticity and genuinely pour yourself into the music, the end result is sure to put a smile on at least a couple of faces. It's an easy balance because the energy is real. I'm just being myself in the studio and telling my story. Having fun with the people in the room with me. Or I'm painting a picture for the listener to take them away for a moment from the stresses of their daily lives. Feel-good music is "T.M." music. I'm trying to grind and vibe my way to being a household name.

At just 18, Kaiyah Mercedes is proving to be a fearless voice in the indie pop-rock scene. She blends unapologetic lyricism with gritty, anthemic energy. Her latest single, ‘ MANIC!!! ’, is an electrifying portrayal of emotional chaos, diving headfirst into the turbulence of heartbreak and mental health struggles with striking honesty. Co-written with Seetali Mack and mixed/mastered by Hayden Lauersen, ‘MANIC!!!’ was inspired by a real-life manic episode following a breakup. It captures the overwhelming highs and lows of emotional upheaval. From the driving guitar riffs to Kaiyah’s raw, impassioned vocals, the track delivers a powerful blend of intensity and vulnerability—hallmarks of her signature storytelling. Kaiyah’s journey as an artist has been deeply personal. She uses music as both a form of self-expression and self-discovery. Diagnosed with Autism and ADHD, she found solace in songwriting, documenting her experiences of coming out and navigating her mental health. ‘MANIC!!!’ is pivotal in her evolution, bridging the gap between adolescence and adulthood while offering fans a glimpse into her most personal work yet. Drawing inspiration from artists like Louis Tomlinson, Olivia Rodrigo, The Buoys, and Maisie Peters, Kaiyah continues to craft a familiar and refreshingly unique sound. The single’s raw energy and emotional weight make it a standout, proving that she is more than just an emerging artist—she’s a force to be reckoned with. Fans can experience her dynamic artistry live at the Roarfest at Memo Music Hall (March 9) and the official ‘MANIC!!!’ Single Release Show at Bergy Bandroom (April 6), featuring an all-queer, neurodivergent lineup. With her fearless authenticity and evolving sound, Kaiyah Mercedes is an artist to watch.

Red Velvet Papi has always been a master at crafting his own world in music, blending vulnerability with a touch of cheekiness in everything he does. His latest single, Outer Space , is a prime example of this unique alchemy—a mesmerizing, self-produced track that lifts listeners into the stars and beyond. But don’t let the playful name fool you—Red Velvet Papi is all about intentionality in his music, and Outer Space is no exception. This Alt-R&B gem feels like floating in zero gravity, and that’s exactly the feeling Red Velvet Papi wanted to capture. “ The girl I wrote it about, the first time we kissed it literally felt like I was floating after, ” he says. “ The goal was to not only capture that feeling lyrically, but also atmospherically with the production. And I feel like I did that pretty well .” The result? A lush, cosmic soundscape built on reverb-heavy harmonics and futuristic synths, perfectly complementing his earnest, heart-on-sleeve lyrics. It’s a track that pulses with romantic energy, leaving the listener suspended in the magic of love. Outer Space isn’t just a song; it’s a moment frozen in time, capturing the awe of a first kiss and the overwhelming sensation that love can make the world feel like it’s spinning differently. Unsurprisingly, this track is a pseudo-sister to his 2019 hit Lava Girl from the I Love Girls - EP , both songs inspired by the same person. In the song, there’s a palpable sense of wonder as Red Velvet Papi takes you on a journey through the infinite expanse of his emotions. It’s clear from the first note that he’s not just an artist—he’s a storyteller, a producer, and an engineer weaving his experiences into something tangible for his fans. As he puts it, “ I hope people take away how breathtaking and enchanting the feeling of love can be. I truly don’t think there’s a more magical feeling than love, and hopefully when people listen to this song, they feel similarly. Also, I want people to take away that I’m a really good producer !” This is the third single off Red Velvet Papi’s forthcoming solo project, set to drop in 2025, and if Outer Space is any indication, his fans have a lot to look forward to. It’s a track that showcases his growth as an artist, blending his signature bedroom R&B style with the expansive, boundary-pushing production that has made him a standout figure in the Alt-R&B/hip-hop scene. In the world of Red Velvet Papi, love is both an intimate, personal experience and a universal, cosmic force. Outer Space is proof that he’s not just here to make great music—he’s here to make you feel. So if you’ve ever wanted to float through space, tethered only by the pull of someone’s gravity, Outer Space is your soundtrack. And with two more projects lined up for 2025, you’ll want to keep an eye on this rising star—because the journey’s just getting started. Outer Space  feels like it captures the feeling of love in a truly unique way. What was it about this particular moment in your life that inspired this song, and how did you work to translate that feeling into the production? I think I'm just a yearner at heart and crave that feeling of love constantly. It's an addicting feeling, and to give myself that fix more often, I try to make the moments I've experienced that feeling, tangible through the music. Any time I produce I'm thinking of my life like it's a movie; If my life is the script to my movie, my production is essentially me scoring these moments. The girl I wrote this about gave me that feeling of floating on air anytime I was with her. I remember the first time we kissed, it felt like I had wings. But there was always some distance or timing that threw things off, keeping us from being anything serious; still it never shook my feelings for her, even now. So in terms of production, I wanted to create a spacious soundscape to represent that metaphorical or literal space between us, but also litter it with soft, warm, and airy elements that represent the way I feel about her, and the way she knocks me off my feet every time I see her. As someone who started as a producer and then transitioned into performing and songwriting, how has that experience shaped the way you approach creating music today? I pretty much always start with the beat, and let it tell me what to write to it. If you think about it, the actual music does the heavy lifting for conveying the feeling of a song, it sets the scene and the lyrics simply accent it. Interestingly, I don't think my process has changed at all from when I was solely a producer. Even when I was just producing for my friends, I'd have ideas for how I think the song should go on my beat, but never really felt confident in doing it myself or presenting it to my friends for them to execute. Now, since I've obtained that confidence, it's just about belief in myself and my ability to execute, but the process itself remains the same. Like I said before, I view my life like a movie, so I'm essentially scoring these life experiences I've had, and bringing them to life in the sonic realm. And it's easier to write something when the beat is already dictating the emotion and vibe. It wasn't until the writing of the album I'm currently working on that I started writing first and then filling in the music around that idea. This has been an extremely challenging process for me, but it is making me grow as an artist. It's also fun being a performer now, because I can see what resonates with people at shows and what doesn't, and then try to work more of those elements into future productions.  Your sound blends so many elements—Alt-R&B, hip-hop, and a bit of lo-fi charm. How would you describe your musical style, and what’s been the most exciting part of finding that voice for yourself? I would describe my style as "Bedroom Hip-Hop/R&B." It's kind of like Bedroom Pop, with how earnest my lyrics are and some of my choices in sound selection, as far as cute, softer sounds and like you said, having a bit of a lo-fi feel to it, but it is still very much Hip-Hop and R&B from a style or genre standpoint. The most exciting part about finding my voice is creating the music I want to hear in the world. My music isn't void of influence or references by any means, but I think that I bring a style and sound that is unique in the sense you can't really say it sounds exactly like X artist, or that I'm a clone or lesser version of some artist everyone likes. You can definitely hear elements of other people here and there, but I'm blending so many different influences from different artists, genres and time periods, that in the end I only sound like myself. That might make me a bit niche, but I take pride in having a unique sound! I also take pride in knowing anyone who likes my music, really enjoys me and what I specifically bring to the table. You’ve mentioned how love plays such a key role in your music. Is there a specific relationship or experience that has influenced your lyrics, or do you find inspiration in the overall feeling of love itself? Well, all my songs are inspired by specific people and relationships I've had in my life at one point or another, but it's definitely the overall feeling of love itself that I draw inspiration from. "Outer Space" specifically is about a girl I met in college; I've written songs about her before, and probably will again, because I still think she's that amazing. Right now I'm single, so currently, I'm either drawing from the feeling of those past experiences, or my yearning for new experiences that will give me a similar feeling. Love is never ending, at least that's what I believe, so it's an infinite well to draw inspiration from. It's also a very complex emotion. We, as a society, have been writing songs, movies, and books about it for centuries, but still don't have a firm understanding of what it is. Which is fascinating to me, and probably why I want to add my two cents. In fact, the album this will be on is largely about tackling what is love? Is it the ignorance of a crush? The rush of getting to know someone? The comfort that comes with the familiarity of someone? Or is it just the feeling you get when you look into someone's eyes? Every song on the album is touching on a different stage or kind of love; it's sort of a concept album in that sense. With  Outer Space  being the third single off your upcoming solo project, what can fans expect from the rest of the album, and how do you think this release shows your evolution as an artist? What’s next for you after this? Fans can expect a few more singles from the album while I put the finishing touches on it. It's going to show my growth as a producer for sure, but also as a jack of all trades. My songwriting is as sharp as ever, I'm leaning into my singing ability way more and with confidence; it's also the first project I've engineered entirely by myself, and not to toot my own horn, but it sounds pretty clean. Then on the production side of things, although it's Hip-Hop and R&B focused, I've still got a wide variety of sounds across the album. I'm mixing elements of Jazz, Electronic, DnB, and Ambient. It's going to be crazy! And beyond that, I'm also dropping a collab album with Atlanta based rapper, M3rce, this year. That one will also be produced and engineered entirely by me. That one might be out sooner than my solo project to be honest. But all that is to say, in 2025, there will be no shortage of new Red Velvet Papi to listen to!

Emerging from the shadows of experimental alternative music, Nina Kay makes a mesmerizing debut with Dance of Dust , the first single from her forthcoming album, Kaleidoscope . With a sound that weaves together dark folk, ethereal rock, post-punk, and indie jazz, Nina Kay crafts an immersive experience that lingers long after the final note fades. From the very first chords, Dance of Dust  envelops the listener in a hypnotic soundscape of layered instrumentation and rich, poetic lyricism. The song’s delicate yet commanding presence evokes a sense of impermanence—an intimate meditation on longing, self-doubt, and the inescapable pull of time. The song paints a striking portrait of a soul yearning for something beyond reach with imagery juxtaposing dust and the sea, fragility, and vastness. Nina Kay’s haunting vocals glide effortlessly over a backdrop of waltzing rhythms, evocative melodies, and immersive textures. The song’s production is as dynamic as its themes—organic, raw, and deeply atmospheric, recalling the ethereal intimacy of artists like Nico, Fiona Apple, and Mazzy Star. Every element, from the trembling strings to the hushed percussion, feels intentional, drawing listeners into an otherworldly realm of reflection and emotion. As the first glimpse into Kaleidoscope , Dance of Dust  sets an evocative tone for what’s to come. If this debut single is any indication, Nina Kay’s upcoming album promises to be a sonic journey filled with introspection, transformation, and beautifully fractured memories. A must-listen for fans of deeply moving, boundary-pushing music, Dance of Dust  is both a dream and a revelation. Instagram