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Witness the impressive artistic visions of a maestro on top of her game. Desarae Dee , known as “Toronto's Queen of Vibes,” has captivated listeners since her 2014 debut with a genre-blurring fusion of faith, funk, and soul. Her upcoming full-length album Adventure marks a decade of fearless creativity, where her distinct sound and proud Afro-Canadian identity have challenged gender, social, and cultural boundaries. Dee’s unconventional style, blending vulnerability with artistic boldness and willingness to think outside the box, has garnered a loyal fanbase and earned her recognition for transforming everyday emotions into captivating, genre-fluid music. Beyond the studio, Dee's influence shines as a performer and mentor. With accolades and recognition like being a recurring feature on NPR’s Jazz Night and a 2022 SiriusXM Black Canadian Award Winner, she’s headlined major events, including Canadian Music Week and Sofar Sounds Toronto. As a micro-influencer, Dee engages her audience with diverse content while mentoring young artists through Soundcheck Youth and supporting the Marigold Music Program . Through her music and community work, she’s leaving an indelible mark on the industry. In every space that she’s occupied, she’s been a guiding, inspirational light. As the curtain call and titular single for her latest album , Dee’s release “Adventure” was always going to be held to a higher bar. We’re happy to report that she’s succeeded; energetic, a little hectic at times but positively captivating, “Adventure” is a single that feels like it’s brimming with life. Her signature keyboard play and an amusingly helter-skelter drum performance form the backbone of this release. At first, the instrumentals rush off at a breakneck pace before slowing down and gradually winding down, signaling the end of a great journey, with the final piano notes signaling the slight possibility of a new one. With every release, Toronto’s “Queen of Vibes” continues to show her artistic greatness with polished, well-executed releases that hold the ability to invigorate and inspire. Whenever you’re ready, tap in and stream Desarae Dee’s latest release, “Adventure,” out now on all major streaming platforms.

Can he break the vicious cycle? Possessing a powerful, free, and expansive artistic spirit and vision, fearless singer-songwriter Ryan Jay has always marched to the beat of his drum. Having picked up the guitar in 2002, the immensely talented artist would get his start touring with heavy metal bands back in 2004, traveling the East Coast and even Canada. Having transitioned to country music in 2012, Jay would once again hit the road, touring the U.S. and proving that he more than had what it takes to take the industry by storm, no matter the genre. Channeling iconic influences like Eric Church, Cody Jinks, and Metallica, Jay’s music fuses country grit with a metal edge, resulting in a unique sound practically unheard of in mainstream music today. Jay describes his music as “bold, honest, and sincere,” with his releases taking inspiration from his personal life. In many ways, Jay’s releases are like snapshots of his lived experience, feeling like confessions at times and diaries at others. Having struggled with alcohol addiction in the past, Jay is now sober, and with every release, his light grows ever brighter. True to his style, Jay’s latest release, “Blame It On The Jack,” is a raw reflection on Jay's past struggles with alcoholism. The song, which he began writing years ago during his battle with addiction, now serves as a testament to his sobriety and growth. Lyrics like the opening salvo, “Yes she left me / and I don’t think she’s coming back,” and other lines like “And I find myself with some bloody knuckles and a broken bottle of whisky,” take a hard, unflinching look at the pitfalls of alcoholism. What really sells “Blame It On The Jack” is Jay’s sincere delivery, with his vocal performance ringing true to the changed man he’s become. With five nominations at the 2024 Josie Awards and counting, Ryan Jay’s story proves that grit and resilience pay off. Whenever you’re ready, tap in and stream Ryan Jay’s latest release, “Blame It On The Jack,” now on all major streaming platforms. Welcome to Buzz, Ryan Jay! We loved “Blame It On The Jack.” What a sincere and touching release! We had to ask: We know that your personal life inspired this song, so what did it feel like when you heard the final version for the first time? It must have felt somewhat cathartic! It felt great to hear my vision come to life and possibly give insight to others and help them. What’s your fondest music-related memory? Playing Machine Shop in Flint, MI, Sold Out opening for Chase Matthew. What inspired you to take that initial step to seriously pursue music, and what motivates you to make music now? Music has been my life since I was 16. When you love something enough in life, you just go for it. Making my dreams come true and helping people through my music motivates me the most. What was your favorite part of the creative process for making this release, and what’s your favorite part of the creative process usually? My favorite part of this process was making the lyrics come to life in my music video. That’s usually my favorite part of the process. What’s next for Ryan Jay, and is there anything you’d like to say to your fans? I'm working on a full-length album, touring, and Nashville! I’d like to tell my fans that I love them, sincerely appreciate all of their support, and thank them for spending their hard-earned money on my shows. Instagram Facebook

From South East London, 25-year-old singer-songwriter Adam Kelly blesses new and loyal listeners with his sophomore EP, You Don’t Know What It Feels Like . Kelly’s journey as a musician started young, drawing inspiration from Stevie Wonder and later embracing pop after experimenting with EDM. His live performances have made waves across the UK, with festival appearances and headlining shows, including a recent sold-out gig at Camden Assembly. His sweet-sounding, 5-track project showcases Kelly’s evolution as an artist, blending retro influences like Hall and Oates with modern pop icons like Bruno Mars and Harry Styles. With catchy, smooth pop melodies, the EP perfectly highlights his knack for infectious hooks and polished production. And speaking of production, this EP was produced by Jack Ducker, known for his work with Lovelle and Saint Joshua. It includes previously released singles "Let Me Love You" and "Take It Right Back," which gained significant attention from Wonderland Magazine and 1883 Magazine while gaining airplay on BBC Introducing. The soul-soothing introduction "Magic," the song's title track "You Don't Know What It Feels Like," and "Love Me Better" offer listeners a slice into Kelly's personal life. His heartfelt, relatable lyrics grab your attention, and the catchy melodies keep you locked in for the ride. Kelly shares how working with Ducker helped refine his sound: "I knew I wanted to develop my sound into something new with this project. Jack (Ducker) helped me navigate my unfinished productions into a cohesive body of work, and I couldn’t be happier. Coming from a live music background, I felt so inspired to create songs that not only feel great in the studio but just as good on a stage." Hear it yourself and keep track of the newest rising star in the independent music scene. Find Adam Kelly's new EP, You Don’t Know What It Feels Like , on all digital streaming platforms. Instagram

Are you down, or what? 2AM Ricky is not just breaking boundaries—he’s redefining them. With a potent blend of captivating rhymes and hypnotic melodies, his genre-bending sound draws from influences like Andre 3000, Tyler the Creator, and Pharrell Williams, delivering a convention-transcending musical experience. Ricky’s latest single, “Move,” debuted at #12 on the US iTunes Electronic Charts and peaked at #3, marking a historic achievement as the first Black trans masc artist to reach such heights. It’s clear that Ricky has what it takes to make it big, and we can’t wait to see how high his star will rise. Ricky’s influence extends far beyond his music. As a 2024 Forbes BLKHistory Maker, he is revolutionizing inclusivity in the industry, collaborating with global leaders and top brands to uplift marginalized communities. His work with notable figures like CeCe Peniston and Tyler Perry Studios and advocacy organizations such as Lambda Legal and GLAAD underscores his commitment to increasing trans awareness and redefining industry standards. Through his work and advocacy, Ricky has tirelessly worked to make the industry more inclusive. Ricky’s latest release, “Move,” is characterized by a cool, understated energy—perfect for both the dance floor and late-night chill sessions. A smooth, baritone vocal performance is delivered with a laid-back confidence, fusing perfectly with the track’s pulsating basslines and crisp, syncopated beats. “Move” also incorporates a hint of disco, resulting in a nostalgic and modern-thinking track. Put simply, “Move” is a groovy tune that’s sure to find a home on your playlist, whether you want to hit the dance floor or relax late at night. At this point, 2AMRicky is not just an artist—he’s the force of a movement, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in music and beyond. Whenever you’re ready, tap in and stream 2AM Ricky’s latest release, “Move,” on all majour streaming platforms. Welcome to Buzz, 2AM Ricky! We loved “Move.” We knew we had to ask! What was the creative process like for this release, and what was your favorite part of bringing your vision for “Move” to life? Being a young Black trans man from the South, I know firsthand how tough it is to find spaces where Black queer folks can feel safe, be authentic, and find community. With 'Move', I wanted to create a track that spoke directly to bois like me—masculine-presenting queer people who often feel out of place in the nightlife scene. This record goes beyond blending genres; it’s about breaking down the barriers between the Black queer experience and the larger Black community, creating unity through music. The vibe of Crooklyn , one of my favorite Black films from the '90s, played a big part in the inspiration behind the music video and the retro aesthetic for the release. What inspired you to take that initial step to start pursuing music seriously, and what motivates you to make music now? My decision to pursue music seriously came after the murder of my best friend, Hesakahi McCoy, on the campus of NCCU. That loss hit hard, and creating a mixtape about the truth behind his death was a way for me to process my grief. But it became so much more—it helped expose the truth and even save his case. That was the moment I realized music could be more than just personal expression. It could create change. From then on, I knew this was what I had to do. Now, what keeps me motivated is knowing how music can amplify marginalized voices. As a Black trans man, I understand the weight of representation. I’m driven by the chance to open doors for others and create music that reflects my community’s stories and struggles. You’ve been a tireless advocate for many marginalized communities even before you emerged on the scene. How much does your activism mean to you, and how has it played a part in your music? My activism has always been a guiding force in my life, long before I stepped into the music industry. I’ve always felt a deep responsibility to advocate for marginalized communities, and music became my way to amplify their stories. Each track I release is rooted in real-life experiences and the need for visibility. In addition to my music, I’ve worked with community leaders and policymakers to address systemic issues. I’ve had the honor of working with the City of Atlanta and GLAAD and even offering guidance at the White House, focusing on improving mental health resources and inclusive policies for Black and LGBTQ+ communities. My activism fuels my art, and I use my platform to bridge the gap between storytelling and real change. Do you have any advice for any listeners who might be trying to follow in your footsteps? For anyone who wants to follow in my footsteps, the biggest advice I can offer is to use your voice with intention and never forget the power of community. The industry can be tough, and finding genuine allyship isn’t always easy. But the obstacles you face will shape you and push you to create something meaningful. Focus on the impact you want to have, not just on gaining fame or success. Whether you’re on stage or behind the scenes, remember that your journey is about more than just you—it’s about the people whose lives you’ll touch. Stay grounded in that, and you’ll find success in more ways than one. What’s next for 2AM Ricky, and is there anything you’d like to say to your fans? Right now, I’m up for Grammy consideration for Best Melodic Rap Performance, and I’m on the brink of a historical moment. If nominated, I’d be the first Black trans male artist to receive a Grammy nod. But this is bigger than just an award—it's about pushing for more inclusion in mainstream music and showing Black queer creatives that we belong in these spaces. Beyond that, I’m launching the MOVE Initiative, a project designed to mobilize resources and support for BIPOC trans and queer artists. Through community programming, we aim to enhance visibility and create real opportunities for marginalized voices. I’m also working on my new album, which drops next spring, and gearing up for tour dates. Fans can stay connected by joining the Deuce Crew for exclusive updates on releases, news, and show dates. Instagram

In a recent press conference hosted by 1824, Grammy-winning artist Zedd opened up about his latest album, Telos , his first in nearly a decade. The multi-platinum artist, who's been riding high with billion-stream hits like "The Middle," decided to shake things up this time. "I'm going to make a record for myself; it's not going to be for the streams; it's most certainly not going to be for the algorithms," he said. Telos has been cooking for a while—we're talking ideas from as far back as 2015. Zedd threw in some surprising collabs, too, like John Mayer and Muse. It's clear this album means a lot to him personally. When asked about its name, meaning 'end, purpose, goal,' he admitted, "Telos really is, in that regard, like a personal accomplishment that I have a goal that I have reached that I wasn't sure I could." The artist also touched on the unique structure of the album. He's crafted Telos to be a journey of songs that each flow into the next. Instead of creating what he says feels like a playlist, he's making an experience; "One way to create a journey is, or one way to get somebody to listen to the whole album front to back, is by making it better than a playlist." Responding to a question about the differences between the EDM community and other fanbases, Zedd praised its spirit of acceptance and support. "I think you mentioned my favorite part of the community—it's based around love and acceptance, and I think that alone is something that is not a given in today's world unfortunately," he said. Telos is Zedd pushing himself creatively. It's taken him nearly ten years to craft and release one of his most innovative and explorative projects yet. And it's definitely worth a listen. Find Telos, Zedd's third studio album, on all digital streaming platforms.

Charlotte-based indie pop artist Ashlyn Uribe lights up the scene with her powerful single, "heat lightning," from her recent EP, string of pearls. Uribe's music is a mix of bedroom pop, indie ballads, and folk-inspired tunes that speak to the soul. She writes about her own experiences, covering topics like love, loss, and finding yourself amid life's ups and downs. Her songs have a raw honesty that fans can easily connect with, inspired by acts like Ariana Grande, Chappell Roan, and Lizzy McAlpine. In "heat lightning," Uribe opens up about feeling stuck and lost. The song talks about how life can feel like taking one step forward but four steps back. While reflecting on her own struggles with direct yet witty lyrics, she paints vivid pictures about finding yourself that anyone can relate to. Diving deeper into "heat lightning," the track starts softly to show Uribe's impressive vocal range alongside gentle, stunning piano melodies. Just seconds into this track, and her lyrical content is wildly impressive. She sings about feeling far from who she used to be, only catching glimpses of herself like flashes of heat lightning. It's a perfect way to describe those moments when life feels out of control. The bridge of the song is where Uribe really shines. Her powerful vocals express years of built-up emotions, making listeners feel every word. The song then smoothly transitions to a calming outro, leaving you with a cathartic sense of release. It's like going through a storm and coming out stronger on the other side. Experience the emotional journey of Ashlyn Uribe's impactful single, "heat lightning," now available on all digital streaming platforms. Welcome back to Buzz, Ashlyn! We're blown away by your emotional release, "heat lightning." What inspired you to write about life's struggles and feeling lost? Thank you, I'm so happy to be back! This song is wholly and entirely about navigating emotional dysregulation and how it can affect your perception of yourself. My experience with feeling overcome by depression, anxiety, and especially complex PTSD is the driving force behind this track and its honesty. It's scary being so volatile emotionally that you feel as if the only clarity you can grasp onto what comes through brief and elusive windows of light, and that's where the metaphor for the title was born. Your vocals on the bridge of "heat lightning" are wildly impressive. What do you think the bridge adds to the overall listening experience? I wrote this bridge's melody line with the imagery of those notes soaring in my head, not realizing how truly difficult it would be to tackle them (both in the studio and live), so thank you, lol. Truthfully, I was very much inspired by Renee Rapp's song structure on "snow angel." I wanted an emotionally driven climax to break up the raw but soothing nature of the ballad; I wanted a power ballad, and I think the bridge ultimately takes it there. This part of the song, being where it is, also intentionally mimics the spiraling feeling of losing control. "heat lightning" is part of your recent EP, string of pearls. How does this song fit in with the other tracks on the project? Sometimes, I'm asked what my favorite song is on the EP, and while I don't have an indefinite answer, "heat lightning" is the easy answer. It's special because it adds dimension to both the genre influences and lyricism of the project. It's also placed in the middle of the tracklist for a reason "sylvia", "peter rabbit" and "idlewild interlude" are nostalgic and reflective of my childhood. "heat lightning" is the marker of where the storytelling shifts to present day me and begins to tackle how my childhood affects me as an adult. I think it's both disruptive and cohesive, even though that's oxymoronic. Would you say that "heat lightning" is one of the more personal songs you've written? Was it challenging to be so vulnerable in the process? Absolutely, it is. Aside from writing "sylvia", which catapulted me into a new stage of vulnerability, freeing me to be able to create the project, "heat lightning" was one of the rawest. The reason it is so personal is because it lays all of my cards out on the table and says, "Hey, not only did these events happen to me then, but here's how they still mess me up today". It was certainly a very challenging and new way to song-write. What do you hope fans will feel or think after listening to "heat lightning?" I hope listening to this song gives people courage above all else. I know my degree of vulnerability isn't for everyone; I'm the girl oversharing in a dive bar just to keep the conversation going, lol. But I think if each person who's experienced any sort of trauma, abuse, or abandonment can find some way to tell their story, even in small or covert ways, so much healing and acceptance will follow. Generational scars can't always be mended, but if there's anything I've learned from writing this EP, you can and will. Unexpectedly, though, some very poignant conversations in my family have happened since this release. And for that, I am refreshed and grateful. Thank you for streaming.

In an electrifying blend of visuals and sound, multi-talented artist Kat Von D has dropped a striking new music video for "Set Myself On Fire," featuring acclaimed Los Angeles songwriter Ferras. The track is part of her freshly released album, My Side Of The Mountain , which showcases her artistic evolution beyond tattooing and running iconic businesses. The video, directed by Ryan Valdez (known for his work with Rise Against, Korn, and Stone Sour), captures the haunting essence of Kat's music. Co-written with Ferras, who has penned chart-toppers for pop icons like Dua Lipa and Katy Perry, "Set Myself On Fire" offers a unique fusion of disco goth, synthwave, and post-punk influences, harkening back to the iconic sounds of the '80s. With lyrics that explore themes of love, darkness, and vulnerability, Kat's mesmerizing style invites listeners into a world that's both ethereal and romantically macabre. Fans around the globe are already embracing her unforgettable sound, solidifying her status as a groundbreaking force in contemporary music. Check out the music video below.

Toronto-born artist John Conlin brings raw emotion to the forefront with his latest dance-pop single, "Kissing Other Girls." Known for his catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics, John Conlin continues to captivate audiences with his unique blend of emotional storytelling and infectious beats. Now based in Los Angeles, Conlin has channeled one of his most personal life experiences into a powerful anthem that resonates deeply with anyone who's ever experienced unrequited love. "Kissing Other Girls" tells the story of being in love with a man too afraid to embrace their true self, a painful reality many can relate to. He says it "captures the emotional turmoil of watching someone you adore kiss others to convince themselves—and the world—that they are straight." Diving deeper into "Kissing Other Girls," the shimmering synths kick the song into gear while setting the emotional atmosphere. Conlin's vocals glide effortlessly over the groovy yet soothing production, blending danceable rhythms with emotionally charged lyrics perfectly. The hook feels like a realization that, although Conlin loves this person dearly, they definitely have some soul-searching to do. The song offers a lingering sense of heartbreak and a brokenness that many can relate to. Conlin's lyrics are incredibly raw. He holds nothing back while unveiling an honest look at the complexity of love, fear, and identity. If anything, we’re sure it’ll leave a lasting impression on anyone who listens. Hear it yourself and find John Conlin's new single, "Kissing Other Girls,” on all digital streaming platforms. Welcome to Buzz, John! We love your new release, “Kissing Other Girls.” We know how cathartic this process made you feel, so what was it like when you heard the finished version of “Kissing Other Girls” for the first time? What was going through your mind when you knew you had the definitive master? This song was really amazing to make. I was looping the synth part on my computer for a few minutes, and then the entire song practically fell out of me in one sitting. That's usually rare for me; I usually go back and edit and change things over the course of a few days, but I just felt *it* right when I finished writing the song. Obviously, adding more glossy production and hearing the final master was incredible, but I knew I had something special while I was writing the track. What inspired you to start taking music seriously, and what continues to inspire you today? I really love writing and conveying relatable stories through catchy melodies and honest lyricism. I love that I'm able to write earworm "bangers" that have a story in them. My favorite thing about pop music, though, has always been pop culture icons and their amazing performance abilities (Prince, Madonna, Lady GaGa, Michael Jackson). I always get so awestruck rewatching iconic performances. I always throw on Gaga's 2009 VMA performance of Paparazzi whenever I'm feeling low, and it completely re-inspires me. What do you want your fans to feel when they hear your music? I want them to feel a sort of release. I always describe my music as having a 'dancing through the pain' quality, and I feel like there's a sort of catharsis in hearing someone sing about something relatable. I love the collective "we're all in this together" feeling that music brings out of people. I think that this song can be relatable to anyone who has ever felt betrayed and lied to by a partner. What’s your fondest music-related memory, and what are you most excited for the rest of the year? My fondest music-related memory was a show I did earlier this year where there were people in the audience that I didn't know that were singing the words to my songs. It felt like a special step forward for me. I'm excited to release another track or two in the upcoming year. I'm sitting on a lot of unreleased, finished material, so I can't wait to put it out into the world. What’s next for you, and is there anything you’d like to say to your fans? I'm still actively creating. I think I want 2 or 3 more songs completed for my full-length project that I'd love to release sometime in 2025. I'm hoping to continue growing my audience and cultivating enough of an audience so that I can release this project in full. Instagram Facebook

In BABY, her second full-length album, Shoshana Ami, transforms the raw, isolated emotions of the pandemic into a deeply personal and cathartic musical experience. The record, written during the latter half of the COVID-19 pandemic, is a testament to Ami's resilience, creativity, and ability to channel personal hardship into something universally resonant. From the peaceful seclusion of Sag Harbor, Long Island, Ami found herself recovering from a severe case of COVID-19, retreating from the bustling streets of New York City. This period of forced isolation gave birth to BABY, an album that pulses with both vulnerability and power. The tracks feel like intimate journal entries set to music, where the wooded landscapes and quietude of her surroundings weave into the fabric of the sound. Listeners can even hear the wind in some of her voice memos, a haunting reminder of the outside world’s stillness while her mind raced with lyrical ideas. The album opens with “You Break Me,” a celebration of emotional surrender that strikes the perfect balance between fear and freedom. The hook is infectious, highlighting Ami’s skill at creating melodies that stick long after the song is over. “Without You” delves into obsessive love with a no-holds-barred intensity, embodying the kind of all-encompassing passion that feels suffocating yet magnetic. “I’m Not Cool Anymore” sees Ami grappling with the passage of time and the inevitable loss of youth. There's a poignant blend of self-awareness and humor here—Ami admits she's "still VERY cool," but the undercurrent of anxiety about aging and relevance cuts deep. Tony Conniff's production shines here, offering up quirky sonic textures that match the song's emotional complexity. Perhaps the most striking track on BABY is “Mad Man’s World,” a harrowing narrative of survival and strength. It’s an anthem for women who’ve lived in the shadows of fear and pain, with a chilling, cinematic quality. The song’s dark lyrics are offset by Ami’s emotive delivery, making it both a protest and a confession. “Wanna Have Your Baby” feels like a visceral gut punch in its exploration of longing and unreciprocated love. It’s messy, raw, and real—exactly what Ami excels at. With lines like “wanna have your baby, but I don’t have you,” she exposes the complexities of desire and frustration with painful clarity. Throughout the album, Ami’s voice is the star—achingly vulnerable at times and unflinchingly bold at others. Her ability to seamlessly transition between different emotional landscapes is what makes BABY such a compelling listen. The production, spearheaded by Conniff and polished by Chris Gehringer’s mastering at Sterling Sound, maintains an organic quality despite the digital distance imposed by the pandemic. The album feels handcrafted as if each note and lyric were painstakingly shaped to convey precisely what Ami intended. Thematically, BABY is a reflection of Ami's evolution—not just as a musician but as a person. From her classical music beginnings to her alternative pop-punk roots, Ami has always been a chameleon, adapting and growing through life’s challenges. With BABY, she invites listeners to join her in this journey of self-discovery and healing. It's an album born out of solitude, but it resonates with anyone who's ever felt broken and found a way to rebuild. Shoshana Ami’s BABY is more than just a follow-up to Pretty Liar; it’s the emotional soundtrack to surviving, creating, and ultimately thriving in the midst of chaos. With each song brimming with personal meaning, this is an album that demands to be felt as much as heard. Instagram

The mastermind behind the Bit-Hop genre, MC Zappa, drops a fresh music video for his 2019 track "It's All A Game," breathing new life into the title track of his debut album. Born in Yonkers and raised in Atlanta, MC Zappa is a triple threat as a songwriter, MC-producer, and filmmaker. He's gained vast recognition in the hip-hop scene by fusing 8-bit video game music with golden-age hip-hop, creating a sound that would stand the test of time. Five years after the song's release, MC Zappa brings "It's All A Game" into the visual realm with a newly minted music video. Shot by his sister Taisha Brown on a vintage Sony camcorder, it adds a layer of nostalgic charm to the already retro-inspired track. The visuals for "It's All A Game" are a perfect match for Zappa's Bit-Hop style. Grainy footage and old-school text graphics mirror the 8-bit aesthetic of the music, while scenes of Zappa spitting rhymes in various locations drive home the song's message about life's unpredictability. One particular moment comes around the 3:17 mark, where a pendant makes an appearance, adding an intriguing element to the video's narrative. Lyrically, "It's All A Game" hits hard with its comparison of life to an intense video game. Zappa's flow is smooth and confident as he drops truth bombs about life's distractions and sudden twists. His bars serve as a powerful reminder that we only have one shot, and in this video game, the stakes are higher than ever. Press play on this retro-futuristic experience with MC Zappa's new music video for "It's All A Game," now available on YouTube. Find the full album on all major streaming platforms. Welcome to Buzz, MC Zappa! We're loving the new visuals for "It's All A Game." What made you decide to create a video for this track five years after its release? Thank you! It's good to be back. I'm really not sure why the timing was the way it was. I never really thought about filming any videos before last year, when I filmed "Call The Law." All I can say is that around July of this year, something started to persistently tug at my mind, making me feel strongly compelled to do another video. I had been cycling a couple of ideas in my mind as far as which song to capture. "Hardcore" from the same album was a strong contender at one point. But then late one night, at like 1 or 2 A.M., I just started listening to my whole catalog on Apple Music. I got to "It's All A Game," and the lyrics struck me. I remember thinking that even though I had written this song five years ago, not only did it foreshadow my spiritual awakening, but it was the realest and most relevant song I've ever written. I told myself, "This is the one; we've got to shoot this one." The video for "It's All A Game" has a distinct retro feel, shot on a vintage Sony camcorder. How does this visual style complement your Bit-Hop sound? I've begun to develop a bit of an obsession with vintage cameras [laughs]. Not too long after we shot the video, I bought a Canon AZ-814 from 1967. But no, this visual style complements Bit-Hop perfectly because it represents nostalgia and retro-ness with a healthy dose of anachronism. In this way, both my videos and my music are similar. Yes, the CCD-TRV65 is from 1998, which makes the video look like it was made in the 90s. Yet in the video, we can see a PS5 hooked up to a 43-inch flatscreen, which obviously was not available in '98. Yes, the music sounds as if it was made in the 90s. Yet there are lines such as "problems keep poppin' up like a titty at the Super Bowl", a reference to a controversy that wouldn't happen 'til 2004. In a way, this visual style with retro cameras represents my own worldview and how I see the world. Yes, I live in this modern world, but in many ways, I do not feel as if I am truly a part of it. We couldn't help but notice the pendant that appears around 3:17 in the "It's All A Game" video. Can you tell us more about its significance? Ah yes. The symbol on my necklace (יהוה‎) in that scene is called the Tetragrammaton. It is the personal name of God, as revealed in the Holy Bible (Psalm 83:18). It is rendered in English as YHWH and typically pronounced "Yahweh" or "Jehovah," but most modern Bible translations have wrongly removed His name and replaced it with the title "LORD." Most people do not know that God/the Lord has a personal name, and I wanted to make people aware of it. "It's All A Game" draws some powerful parallels between life and video games. How has your perspective on this theme evolved since you first wrote the song? In many ways, the analogy has become even more poignant with every passing year. One part, which I didn't really touch on in the song, concerns the collection of money and possessions. In any video game, eventually, you'll make more money than you'll ever be able to spend. Eventually, you'll buy every item, find every collectible, and acquire every weapon. What then? And all the while, you're racking up points. But they're useless! They're just meaningless statistics intended to give you a false sense of accomplishment. Is this not life in a nutshell? This parallel is very significant to me because in the years following "It's All A Game," I fell into a DEEP depression, which I vainly tried to cure by engaging in (among other things) unhealthy, compulsive shopping. This did not work; the more stuff I obtained, the deeper the depression got. Honestly, I think of almost everything in my daily life in terms of video games. It helps me to keep things in perspective. For example, as an autistic person, sometimes I have a lot of difficulty with change, especially making it. But then I think to myself, how do I benefit myself by staying in the same part of the map and performing the same daily tasks? Am I not devolving myself from a protagonist to an NPC by doing this? I may have some trepidation about things not going how I want them to. But also, with trepidation comes strength and skill. Are we to avoid the levels that were always too hard for us? Or do we tackle them head-on, seeking new challenges to both use our skills and obtain new ones? Which one we choose determines who we are. What was your favorite part about bringing "It's All A Game" back to life in the form of a music video? What moments or experiences did you enjoy most? My favorite part would have to be either costume design or location scouting. I absolutely love everything related to clothing and fashion, so I loved curating the outfits I wore in the video. I believe every part of an outfit in filmmaking should convey meaning and symbolism. There is no scrap of clothing in the video that doesn't have significance. My favorite experience was filming the scenes for verse 3 on my staircase. I felt that the scenes with me sitting on my staircase with my boombox were very Hip-Hop, indicative of my medium and the era to which I am paying homage. Most people probably don't know, but I was heavily inspired by the 1983 video for "The Message" by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five in various ways, and the boombox scenes in verse 3 are no exception. Peace and love to Grandmaster Melle Mel! Initially, I was wearing a red Kangol in that scene (mad shouts to my good sis T'aisha for suggesting that one and being the camerawoman), but I had a mishap with the camcorder, and accidentally taped over an entire afternoon's worth of work; only a few seconds of the original survived. I love working with analog equipment, but it does have its hazards. In any case, I had a great time all the way around, and I can't wait to film my next video. Instagram Twitter