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Sacramento-based electronic music producer Annava dabbles in the world of melodic Garage House for his latest chilling single, "I Know." For Annava, he's one of the lucky ones. He knew exactly what he wanted to do with his life since hearing deadmau5 at age 11. Now, the 22-year-old producer has several releases that travel through electronic subgenres like electronica, happy hardcore, electro-funk, J-pop, and even phonk. His latest single, "I Know," introduces listeners to a softer side of Annava that explores the sounds of UK Garage, 90s jungle, DnB, and house. "Mostly, my music has no inherent sentimentality or meaning," explains Annava. "'I Know' became the exception when I chopped up some vocals I recorded for an unreleased track, and it became a reflection of the pain of leaving someone you are in love with.” Hitting play on "I Know," the experience opens with sharp drum breaks that gradually lead into an even richer percussive breakdown alongside haunting vocal chops. As the tender pads begin making their way into the foreground alongside fluttering synth melodies, that same distorted vocal chop expresses the pain of leaving someone you love and understanding that they deserve better than you had given. A harsh reality indeed, but Annava makes it enlightening. Within the subtle DnB nods and celestial atmosphere, there's an unspoken message to the listener that everything gets better with time. Annava's production is top-tier; he's positioning himself as a force in the modern electronic space with tracks like "I Know," we're eager to see where it lands him. Do yourself a favor and treat your mind, body, and soul to Annava's refreshing new single, "I Know," now available on all digital streaming platforms. Instagram

Let's take a trip to the ethereal realm with Lyra's latest power ballad, "Rooftops." Hailing from the dynamic city of London, Lyra is an infectious soul/R&B force that refuses to be confined by genre boundaries. With influences ranging from the nostalgic vibes of 90's R&B to the contemporary sounds of funk, soul, and pop, Lyra is a musical journey from past to present. The band's sonic palette draws inspiration from diverse artists, including Lily Moore, Olivia Dean, Stevie Wonder, Don Broco, Polyphia, Tom Misch, Cory Wong, and the iconic Amy Winehouse. Since its formation in 2016, Lyra has graced the stages of London's most iconic venues, leaving an indelible mark at The Bedford, The Spice of Life, 229, The Camden Assembly, 93 Feet East, and many more. "Rooftops" delves into the profound world of being a cinematic experience where storytelling comes alive. The production exudes a theatrical quality that transforms it into the soundtrack of your life. With each note, there's an undeniable pep in your step, courtesy of Lyra's powerful vocals. As a brilliant songstress, Lyra can convey emotion in a way that transcends the ordinary. The ballad unfolds like a tapestry of emotions, with Lyra's vocals serving as the thread that weaves a narrative you can't help but get lost in. "Rooftops" is more than a melody; it's an invitation to feel, experience, and let the music carry you away. Lyra's dynamic presence and the infectious energy of "Rooftops" make it clear why this soul/R&B act is pushing the envelope of their genre. With every beat, Lyra proves that music is not just a passion for them but a calling, leaving us eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the sonic journey. "Rooftops" is an experience that pulls you into your sonic integrity, and it's undeniable. Can you please share more about the creative vision behind the song and how you approached infusing a theatrical feel into the production? We wanted to take what was originally an intimate, minimalistic love song and turn it into a massive ballad with strings, stomps, claps, and harmonized guitar solos. Two very different places influenced the songwriting and production, and we had a lot of fun trying to combine them. We used strings to create the kind of cinematic effect you hear in songs like 'Born To Die' by Lana Del Rey or 'You've Got The Love' by Florence + The Machine. They provide the song with a rich bed and help emotionally take it further. With "Rooftops" being known for its storytelling in the lyrics, how did you concoct your approach to bringing this aspect to life in this particular song? We tried to balance the lyrics being easily accessible while still leaving aspects to be interpreted. I always like lyrics that make you use your imagination a bit and create a sense of imagery. People like Mark Knopfler are amazing at that. The verses describe a story about the main character realizing that they're at a crossroads in life and need to make a difficult decision to move on and be happy. When you're telling a story in a song, setting a scene in the listener's imagination is essential. "Two lost souls brought together by sound, sitting on the rooftop over London town" sets the scene. You're known for pushing the boundaries of soul and R&B. How do you balance drawing from the rich history of 90's R&B while incorporating modern funk, soul, and pop elements? It's not necessarily an intentional choice that we make. It's more of a natural occurrence based on our interests and what we consume musically. We usually wait to begin writing a song to produce a specific kind of sound, and the vibe will change dramatically from the demo to the final version through lots of experimentation. If you take our song 'Intentions,' I was really into Don Broco's 'Superlove' at the time and Cory Wong's funk/disco vibe. So the music became a combination of those styles, and then Jenna, who grew up on soul and R&B, naturally sang in her style over the top. George, our bass player, has a unique way of playing and sometimes even uses a bow, so he impacts our sound. The music we write is usually always the outcome of what we're listening to. What do you hope your audience can take away from such a liberating piece of music? I hope the song can resonate with people and reinforce the idea that the best time of your life might be around the corner from the problematic situation that you're currently going through. I hope it gives people a break from reality and lets them wander into their imagination for a few minutes. As you continue your musical journey, what sonic landscapes and themes do you hope to explore in future projects, and how do you envision evolving the signature sound of Lyra? We'd love to experiment with more instruments. Having a brass section or saxophonist on some of our songs would be amazing. Maybe explore the world of hardware synths a bit more, as that's still very foreign to us. I always liked the sounds that Metric was able to create using synthesizers and how well they could blend them with "real" instruments. Instagram Facebook

Coming in hot from Maryland isn't your usual artist. Singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Madam Who? serves up a hot plate of grandma's 'sound' advice in her latest single, "Peter Meter." Picture the brainchild of Lady Gaga, Olivia Rodrigo, and a splash of Gwen Stefani-fronted No Doubt. That's Madam Who?. Known as GenZ's cool aunt and gender-fluid indie rock star, she's no stranger to adversity. She overcame brain cancer and is here to share inspiring pop anthems for the underdogs, as highlighted in a segment in Good Morning America. Her newest single and accompanying music video for "Peter Meter" is gut-punching, hilarious...and accurate. "The single was inspired by something my wealthy Grandmother said to me before my freshman year at college in Nashville," says Madam Who?. "In her Scarlet O'Hara-esque southern accent, she said, 'I been outta the datin' pool for some time now...and I was just wond'rin'...do bowyees still requiya that you have sex with them?'" Now, she turned that experience into a comical anthem for anyone wondering why they haven't reeled in the love of their life. "Peter Meter" sees a playful back and forth between a granddaughter and her wise grandma Rita, who offers her granddaughter sound advice on how to keep a guy...happy. "It's time to tell you what I told your mother," she sings. The answer? You need to feed his "Peter Meter." In the song's quirky music video, the granddaughter is hilariously horrified but continues to listen. As granny shows off some moves to win over a man, like shaking what your mama gave you, Madam Who? makes her way to the outro and guarantees that the one way to keep a man happy (as long as he hasn't been a jerk), is to take ol' granny's advice and feed that "Peter Meter." We can't resist any tunes Madam Who? releases, and "Peter Meter" is no exception. Bust a gut and find the new song on all digital streaming platforms. Instagram Facebook

Multi-faceted musician and versatile hip-hop recording artist Jerard Rice, known professionally as Rice, is stepping into a new chapter by releasing his loud-and-proud new single, "Blog It." Rice sees music as a means for education and social change, influenced by 50 Cent and Lil Wayne to create truly impactful, authentic pieces. Hit tracks like "Bet On It" and "Juice" have landed him Grammy consideration and awards at the X-Pozing Music Awards. As he continues on this upward trajectory, Rice is eager to use his platform to make a lasting difference in today's music scene. And what an upward trajectory he's on, as highlighted in his recent single, "Blog It." This powerhouse track perfectly represents personal transformation and achieving success against the odds. The strong intro and equal fire production pave the way for incredible bars that spark your inner fire, prompting you to chase whatever feeds the soul. Jumping into "Blog It," the track blasts open with a mighty brass section and hard-hitting drums that make room for Rice's big entrance. While reflecting on past struggles and making ends meet, he leverages those experiences to tell one of the greatest comeback stories ever. It's one of those stories you must "Blog It." Now, living it up, moving onward and upward, Rice's killer flow and laidback persona make this song irresistible. It's a powerful pump-up song that touches on the steady grind to personal and financial freedom but also the grit and consistency it took to get there. It's a personal evolution and a complete 180 from the life he once lived compared to his current reality, and that's no easy feat. If you're a fan of larger-than-life hip-hop that leaves you ready to pounce at the next opportunity for success, check out Rice's new single, "Blog It," now available on all digital streaming platforms. Instagram Facebook

Who knew rock n’ roll could be so heartwarming? Hailing from Detroit, MI, and currently stationed in Oakland, CA, rock 'n' roll powerhouses Larry Sager and ESQ are back and again, making waves with their upcoming single and video release, “Runaway.” With an impressive track record boasting over 18 million video streams on YouTube, ESQ went on a tear last year. Dropping releases like “At the Rock n’ Roll” and “Can’t Be Satisfied” steadily carved and expanded a niche within the scene, showing no signs of stopping in the new year. Renowned for their robust rock n’ roll flavor, ESQ releases are always adorned with clever lyrics and an unforgettable melodic flair. Balancing rare artistic talent with a down-to-earth vibe, ESQ epitomizes the true spirit of rock, infusing every note with a passionate, unadulterated love for music. Their reverence for classic rock does not shackle them to the past. However, they’ve continued to evolve and refine their sound. It’s often difficult to innovate while drawing from classic influences, but it’s a line that ESQ walks well. ESQ’s latest release, “Runaway,” sees the talented band venture into territory we’re not quite used to seeing them in, but they manage to knock it out of the park anyway. “Runaway” is a love song, and although Sager declares that “Runaway” doesn’t relate to a specific person, the warmth of their affection is unquestionable. Also featuring an adorable music video starring Sager’s adopted cats and other animals, “Runaway” has all the tools to melt your heart. “Come on and run away with me, baby,” Sager tenderly sings as joyous guitars and drums lift your spirits. ESQ has done well with this release, and we can’t wait to see what they have in store for the rest of the year. ESQ’s “Runaway” is a heartwarming release that captivates with its warm message and Sager’s comforting vocals. Whenever you’re ready, tap in and stream ESQ’s latest release, “Runaway,” on all majour streaming platforms. Check out the charming music video as well, out now on YouTube. We loved “Runaway”; what a treat that was! We had to ask; you haven’t ventured into love songs much, right? We’re glad you did, but what inspired you to try your hand now? We have a number of love songs we've already recorded and soon to be released.  This was the first one chosen.  We even have another song for which the video has been shot (!)  We are even going into the studio to lay new tracks for two more love songs.  So we are maybe even a little overloaded with them, I'm slightly afraid. What’s been your fondest music-related memory as a band thus far? The opportunity to work with Sylvia Massey has been groundbreaking.  Much of our music is heavily layered, let's say.  We bounced around to different people and several studios, trying to get our final mixes balanced and sharp.   Sylvia did her magic and put songs together that were balanced, sharp, and defined.  We are so highly appreciative and grateful. What does music and rock n’ roll specifically mean to you? Music is a fun, creative, satisfying way to spend time and create expression. Creativity in rock'n'roll is a challenging genre because it's very limited in chord progressions, timing, and harmonies.  So it's challenging to have that set limitation and achieve musical expression within the style, yet in some unique way expressing something new, fresh, and original but yet familiar. If your audience could take one thing away from your music, what would you want it to be? Enjoyment.  While it should feel familiar, it should be considered a unique, solid, original sound.  We had fun doing it and got enjoyment from it.  So if the music makes people feel good - it's also satisfying.  Is that one thing? What’s next for ESQ? Can we expect to hear more new music soon, and is there anything you want to say to your fans? We have been so busy recording, mixing, and working on videos - that we are excited to be doing our first couple of live shows.  We are excited to do a live stream on April 26 to South America from Whiskey A Go-Go in Los Angeles.  We have millions of listeners in Argentina, Peru, Colombia, and Brazil. We look forward to reaching them at a prime time during the evening.  We appreciate our fans and look forward to sharing our upcoming releases that folks will hopefully find satisfying. Instagram Facebook

Vibrating our speakers with a loud and clear message is singer-songwriter and alternative recording artist Emma McDonald with her latest single, "I'm Bored." It's not every day that we come across an artist who's not as 'keen' on the party life as the rest. But rest assured, Emma McDonald is here to tell you that it's perfectly fine to enjoy a comfy night in than a loud night out with strangers. Influenced by Lizzy McAlpine, Noah Kahan, Lady Gaga, and Nirvana, Emma McDonald offers a unique sound with lyrics for those who never really felt like they fit in. In her recent single, "I'm Bored," Emma McDonald takes this theme up. It's not some blasé, hanging around the house type of bored — it's the boredom of feeling out of place in social settings and like you're just tagging along. In 2024, songs like these are few and far between, but we're incredibly grateful that Emma McDonald shines a light on the topic. Exploring "I'm Bored" further, the experience opens with dreamy and sultry electric guitar melodies alongside a haunting acoustic guitar and Emma McDonald's equally haunting vocals. While expressing how she always tags along to parties and realizes how fake people can be, she reassures herself that staying home is probably the better move. But, alas, she's here, and she's bored. As the song expands with a subtle country twang and a heavy grunge undertone, Emma McDonald encourages listeners to embrace feeling like outsiders and stand firm in their beliefs. It's an anthem about the experience of feeling out of place, enhanced by dynamic instrumentals that bring the message home loud and clear: it's okay to stay home. Let Emma McDonald empower your decision-making with her latest single, "I'm Bored," now available on all digital streaming platforms. Instagram

Jager Henry Bonham has unleashed a sonic hurricane with his highly anticipated single, "BLEED," it's like a thunderous opening act setting the stage for an upcoming EP that promises to be nothing short of spectacular. Inspired by the haunting notion of a guardian angel's absence, "BLEED" takes you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, echoing Jager's journey from rock bottom to resilience. The song strikes a universal chord, allowing listeners to interpret their own stories, whether they envision the guardian angel as a celestial figure, a partner, or a friend. It's a musical canvas where listeners can paint their emotions, making it a beautifully personalized experience. The accompanying music video is a bold departure, embracing a grunge aesthetic with powerful performance scenes and haunting manikins wrapped in plastic. This visual representation starkly portrays a world where people conceal their true selves, creating a chilling yet compelling narrative that perfectly complements the song's intensity. Hailing from a lineage of musical greatness, Jager Henry Bonham steps into the spotlight, asserting his individuality in rock. While his forebears, John, and Jason Bonham, left their mark through drums, Jager finds his voice as his instrument, crafting a genre that is uniquely his own — a fusion of the timeless spirit of rock 'n' roll with his modern twist. "BLEED" is an energetic masterpiece, a sonic explosion of tightly woven percussion and unbridled enthusiasm. It traverses various musical landscapes, seamlessly blending nostalgic inspiration with a contemporary edge. Jager's vocal prowess adds layers of urgency, each lyric a relatable cry that beckons us to decipher its meaning. Brace yourself for an exhilarating ride through the musical universe of Jager Henry. Instagram

The Philadelphia outfit continues to build its already impressive catalog. The psychedelic rock fusion band David Koster’s Space Radio emerged from the City of Brotherly Love. Its funky and appealing sound immediately carved out a niche for themselves. With their high-energy releases and electric stage presence, this talented group has the potential to go far, even in a music industry that seems as competitive as ever. Having played their hearts out at events and venues, including Camp Jam, The Lincoln Center, and Karnival of the Arts, these captivating musicians continue to impress with each release, and they’re a group you’ll want to keep an eye on. Part of what makes David Koster’s Space Radio so appealing is its willingness to draw from numerous genres. Utilizing the influences of rock, reggae, classical, jazz, funk, bluegrass, gospel, and many more, David Koster’s Space Radio has crafted a versatile and highly appealing sound, ensuring it feels like there’s a little something for everyone. They proudly state that their music is “meant to remove the listener from everyday life and transport them to their happy place,” we can gleefully say they’re right on the money. Where David Koster’s Space Radio is concerned, the vibes are always good and never in short supply. David Koster’s Space Radio’s enjoyable approach to music is on full display in their new release “Gettin’ Freaky.” Combining funky, psychedelia-influenced instrumentals with an easy, rollicking delivery, “Gettin’ Freaky” entertains with a good ol’ rock n’ roll feel and tongue-in-cheek lyrics. It’s clear that the band had fun making this one, and as they sing, “When things are getting freaky / When things are getting funky / I think I need some time / I think I need some loving,” you’d be hard pressed not to let their infectiously good energy zap you too. David Koster’s Space Radio’s “Gettin’ Freaky” is a beautiful release that shows how entertaining music can be when the artists who make it love what they do. Whenever you’re ready, tap in and stream David Koster’s Space Radio new single “Gettin’ Freaky” on all major streaming platforms. Instagram Facebook

Songwriter behind Santana and Steven Tyler’s dynamic hit collaboration. Renowned singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and music producer Buck Johnson, co-wrote the hit single “Just Feel Better” with Jamie Houston (Miley Cyrus, Sheryl Crow, and Kid Rock) and Damon Johnson (guitarist and lead singer for Brother Cane, having three No. 1 rock radio singles, including “And Fools Shine On, as well as touring with Alice Cooper, Thin Lizzy, and Lynyrd Skynyrd). Buck now releases his own compelling rendition of the 2005 worldwide phenomenon, which was a song from the dynamic collaboration between Carlos Santana and Steven Tyler on the acclaimed album All That I Am. Buck, known for his role as the keyboardist and backing vocalist for the legendary rock band Aerosmith, the Hollywood Vampires (Johnny Depp, Alice Cooper, Joe Perry, and Tommy Henriksen), and The Joe Perry Project, is not only continuing his journey as a soulful rock artist but is also stepping into the spotlight as a sought-after producer for fellow musicians. In moments of seeking solace and healing, the instinct to externalize our efforts is a common first step. “Just Feel Better” challenges conventional thinking, urging listeners to redirect their focus inward for true emotional restoration. Encouraging a transformative shift, the song advocates confronting inner pain, discovering one’s unique key to healing, and unlocking the potential for personal growth and resilience. "Just Feel Better” encapsulated the poignant narrative of seclusion and post-traumatic stress within an overwhelmingly challenging situation, revolving around the theme of seeking reassurance, serenity, and encouragement. Buck expresses, “This song tells the story of someone who’s spent a lifetime suffering from trauma that caused her to lose her way, and she would do anything to just feel better.” Drawing inspiration from the real-life struggles of a close friend,  Buck channels the profound feelings of hopelessness into the song. Serving as the narrator, Buck commences the lyrical journey with the impactful line, “She said I feel stranded, and I can’t tell anymore if I’m coming or I’m going.” In the chorus, she calls out for help. “Tell me what to do. You know I just can’t see through this haze around me, and I’ll do anything to just feel better.” In the second verse, she said, “I need you to hold me. I'm a little far from the shore, and I’m afraid of sinking.” Penned by Buck and his two close friends, the songwriting prowess behind “Just Feel Better” extends to accomplished individuals with remarkable achievements in the industry. Jamie Houston, one of Buck’s collaborators, credits include chart-topping hits, multi-platinum albums, and Emmy nominations. Notably, Jamie holds the record for the biggest single one-week jump in chart position in the history of the Billboard Hot 100 Chart with the song “Breaking Free,” featured on the album High School Musical. Damon Johnson, the other collaborator, has songwriter credits with Sammy Hagar and Stevie Nicks. The songwriting process of “Just Feel Better” was an experience that accurately described the inescapable feelings of isolation and depression. It highlights the necessity of going beyond surface-level connections and truly reaching out to those in our midst, understanding that even those closest to us may be contending with internal challenges. Buck says, “It was very personal and emotional to us when we wrote it. We didn’t write the song with any intention of trying to make it a hit. It was about telling her story, and so it sort of wrote itself and was therapeutic to write it.” Buck’s unique interpretation injects new vitality into the track, complemented by a visually arresting music video produced by Dead Horse Branding. The video, a collaborative effort directed by Art Director and Co-Founder Rick Caballo, with Brittany Hambrick as the Assistant Director, captures the essence of the emotionally charged rock sound that defines Buck’s musical journey. As an artist, Buck’s powerful words in the song serve as an anthem for those who feel like they are barely hanging on, offering comfort in knowing that they are not alone. "Unfortunately, this story is a common one for a lot of people who’ve suffered, felt lost, and continue to do so. I hope the song can be emotionally cathartic to those who feel this way and are seeking help, says Buck.” Having shared the stage with various notable acts, Buck continues to expand his songwriting and musicianship, leaving an indelible mark on the music scene. His self-produced album, mixed by Chad Carlson (Taylor Swift, Blues Traveler, Chris Isaak, and Trisha Yearwood), is set to launch later this year, further solidifying his place as a soulful rock artist and producer. Instagram

Embark on a journey of emotion and euphoria with Portuguese sensation J.MYSTERY's latest single, the powerful ode to a blossoming romance, "Everlasting Love." In the realm of high-quality and emotionally resonant sounds, J.MYSTERY's name stands synonymous with magnetic artistry that strikes deep chords within listeners. His enigmatic presence and consistent delivery have elevated his status as a boundary-pushing talent, and "Everlasting Love" is a testament to his prowess. The song, a raw and earnest portrayal of the early stages of a relationship, captures the spirit and optimism that accompanies the dawn of something new. J.MYSTERY effortlessly translates these emotions into a soundscape that reverberates with hope, dreams, and visions of a brighter future. His distinctive vocals, a baritone that sweeps you into a lulling trance, tug at the heartstrings from the first note. In J.MYSTERY's words, "Everlasting Love" reflects those moments when a connection feels unique and worth fighting for, a sentiment that permeates every lyric and melody. The song is a ballad that goes beyond mere musical notes; it's an immersive experience that paints a vivid picture of enduring love. While he has carved out a unique path and vision in the music scene, "Everlasting Love" unveils his artistry's more human and emotional facets. The track sees him baring his soul, maintaining an air of intrigue and mystique through his otherworldly atmospheric style. As the baritone vocals cascade over you, you can't help but be swept away by the sincerity of J. Mystery's portrayal of love's early bloom. "Everlasting Love" redefines what a sonic journey consists of and invites you to experience the profound depths of affection, leaving you longing for the kind of love that lasts forever. J.MYSTERY's ability to encapsulate the essence of love in this ballad reinforces his standing as a unique and emotionally resonant voice in the music landscape. We love the emotional journey that is found in "Everlasting Love." Can you please delve into the adventure you wanted to take your listeners on with this song and how personal experiences influenced the depth of its sentiment? My main goal was to take the listeners to their first love and every excitement it brings. The adventure of wanting to know more about that person. All the questions and answers that every encounter brings. It represents what I felt when I first met my wife, and I wanted that feeling to be profound in the song. How do you feel this track fits into the evolution of your artistic expression, and what new dimensions do you believe it adds to your body of work? I share more about my feelings and experiences with every new release. My producer, Francisco Reis, and I felt that this song needed more depth and emotion, and that's when we decided to bring a choir. That, for us, was the missing piece for this song that tied it all together. As the songwriter of "Everlasting Love," can you share insights into your creative process? How do you translate personal experiences into universally resonant lyrics, and what challenges and rewards come with that process? That's an interesting question, as I'm thinking about that more often. I write about my personal experiences and relationships, but I need to be peaceful for that to happen. I can't write if I'm sad or angry and use that to my advantage like many other musicians. I need to be somewhat at peace with those less happy moments to write about them, which is the beauty of writing my songs. Coming from Portugal, a country rich in cultural heritage, do you feel your cultural background influences your music, especially in a genre like ballads? Are there elements of Portuguese culture that you intentionally or unintentionally infuse into your work? Everything that surrounds me somehow influences my music. As you mentioned, Portugal has a rich cultural heritage, but I don't think much about that when I'm writing, so I'll say unintentionally, yes. "Everlasting Love" showcases your atmospheric style. Looking ahead, are there specific sonic landscapes or themes you're eager to explore in your upcoming projects, and how do you envision pushing your artistic boundaries further? Yes, I've been working on some more uptempo songs. As you mentioned, I wanted to explore more electro-pop sounds without losing my essence and always focusing on universally resonant lyrics. Instagram Facebook