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One of life's simplest pleasures comes from sparking up your favorite strain and tapping in with artists who adore weed just as much as you. No matter the genre, these tracks share a passionate affinity for marijuana and are lowkey, maybe even HIGHkey, about the green plant we proudly admire. 10. Maui Wowie – Kid Cudi In our eyes, one of Kid Cudi's most underrated songs. Taking it back to 2008, the dreamy instrumentation mixed with Cudi's witty rhymes about the beloved bud have us in a hazy cloud of feel-good vibes as we follow the trail of smoke to Honolulu to "get a little pinch of the Maui Wowie." 9. Bush Weed – JJ Wilde With a mellowed-out soft rock vibe that's madly playful, JJ Wilde's "Bush Weed" is all about losing yourself in a field of cannabis. Every stoner's dream, right? Better yet, if you tune into the psychedelic visualizer, she and her crew tap into a That 70s Show vibe as the sesh circle is full of giggles and smoke. 8. Pass that Dutch – Missy Elliot Dutch Masters can thank Missy Elliot for keeping business booming in the new age. This heavyweight hitter track is the Indica of music – potent, bestowing, and constantly delivering. So when Timbaland and Missy Elliot link up, you know it's sonic magic. 7. James Joint – Rihanna Elusively persuasive as Rihanna croons, "I'd rather be smoking weed whenever we breathe," this short and sweet sonic tale is an easy addition to your playlist. Apart from being the IT girl – this Barbados-bred visionary can always be seen showing her love for ganja. So it only makes sense that the hypnotic sway of her harmonies cements that in "James Joint." 6. High By The Beach – Lana De Rey If you aren't under the influence yet, Lana Del Rey's spellbinding timbres will have you high on their own. Her 2015 bop, "High By The Beach," will have you finding your way through a nostalgic haze that you'll want to embrace forever. The dreamy visuals showcase her attempting to isolate herself from the flashes of paparazzi as they swoop in on helicopters – and we can honestly say we feel this major Lana energy to the fullest. 5. Blueberry Yum Yum (feat. Sleepy Brown) – Ludacris Luda's 2004 album "The Red Light District" brought us iconic gems like "Blueberry Yum Yum." Almost 20 years later, we can say this is a stoner anthem that holds up. I think it's best you all follow suit and, "Get your lighters, roll that sticky, let's get higher (let's get higher)," because much like the strain Blueberry Yum Yum, this song slaps. 4. Puffin On Zooties – Future You can't play out weed. 2023 and we're still getting unique records in hip-hop about cannabis. Trading in his tinted Sprite, this laid-back track has Future melodically rapping about puffing on Zooties, a type of marijuana cigarette. Future makes it known he's living the good life some wish to experience one day. 3. D.R.A.M. (feat. Lil Yachty) – Broccoli Going quintuple platinum, peaking at number five on the Billboard Hot 100, and putting Virginia rapper on the map – it isn't every day that a song refers to weed as broccoli. Better yet, it isn't every day that a song about weed does quite as well as this track has. On the plus side, D.R.A.M. and Lil Yachty has us eager to consume more greens. First, however, we may have to clarify what's being served for dinner. 2. Crumblin’ Erb – Outkast Perfect for that honeyed, soulful bass-heavy cruise through the eras, Outkast shows us there's not a better feeling than chillin' out and crumbling up that bud. What better way to escape from this wild and crazy world than to listen to Andre 3000 and Big Boi preach about the pleasures of doing the same? 1. Good Times (I Get High) – Stylez P As far as cannabis-themed anthems go, this is a no-brainer. Besides being extremely unforgettable, to the point you may be singing "I get high, I get high" out in public, Stylez P knocks it out of the park with these energetic one-liners that deliver repeatedly. "Ayo, I smoke like a chimney, 'matter fact, I smoke like a gun," and "I smoke like the hippies did back in the '70s." We can't relate more. There's always room on our playlist for stoner bops and room in our collection for a new strain, but at least we have the music covered for your next sesh. So, break up your nugs, light one up, and press play on these songs that live out our marijuana dreams.

Atlanta-based alt-hip-hop/soul artist Chyle MC has a profound sound often described as Michael Jackson and Erykah Badu's love child raised by A Tribe Called Quest. Pronounced Child Emcee, he was formerly a part of the critically acclaimed hip-hop/soul duo BREAKROOM before he blended unique soulful flows with neo-jazzy hip-hop grooves. Using the classic Parliament-Funkadelic era as a muse, Chyle MC has been quietly putting out great music since 1998 with his longtime friend and producer Vitamin-D. Delivering the same determination and beloved sound on his latest album, 'Majestic Constellations,' Chyle MC uses the 12 tracks showcased to profess a poignant atmosphere riddled with an old-school flow. "You" is a track that incorporates angelic harmonies and textured samples to bring forth a narrative that's rich in storytelling. Chyle MC describes the thing he is notorious for and is known for by the many who love him and maybe even want to be in his place. Through a melodic yet distinct lyrical delivery, he gives life to this soundscape as he ropes us in with larger-than-life lyrics. "Why" has an undeniable swagger dripping from its sonic presence the moment the song starts. Delivering an infectious groove that's easy to sway to, this is yet another way that Chyle MC ropes us in so easily. Declaring powerful timbres that delve into his soul as he's asking many questions of why to a previous lover, we're caught up in the multi-talents of Chyle Mc as he sings evocative cascades and approaches the instrumentation with boldly written bars. Immersing us in the funky soul from the 70s that many eras have tried to mimic, "When" is the upbeat offering from Chyle MC's 'Majestic Constellations.' Staying in his lane and bringing a unique dynamic to this soundscape, the vocal doubling on this song has us in a hypnotic spiral of each word his velvet timbres dismiss. A master at delivering mesmerizing tales you're hooked on, "Ride" captures his notorious styling through intricate lyrics yet also emanates a feel-good groove through these same words. We're convinced it's because his nurturing vocalization makes you feel everything will be alright. Within the sometimes grim tales, there's always a silver lining to embrace. A bass-heavy swing on "Way" takes us into a dark soundscape of anticipation as Chyle MC has ushered us into a narrative we're destined to hear. This record reflects his persona and harmonious nature in various ways that ultimately come together. "Way" is a song about making choices and how the right one can change your life. Pretty phenomenal if you ask us. "Sugar Baby" is next up on the roster, and we're thrilled to be met with such an eclectic flair as Chyle MC visits two worlds in creating this alluring atmosphere. The sonic components build with melodic tenacity and convey an unalloyed sense of soul through the performance Chyle MC offers. Continuing to submerge us in witty one-liners as he gets his point across, it's entertaining where he'll take the rapped chronicles next. Recruiting Kiana Hill to cast out the grand energy of "Lost," these two have an undeniable dynamic that has taken this song by storm. Her empowering cascades hold an angelic tone as she whisks us into her embrace. Add in Chyle MC's robust tenors, and these two explode on this track with a seamlessly blended musical cocktail. "God" slows down the tempo and navigates us through Chyle MC's formidable presence. Holding his faith close, he questions the dark days and moments as he carries on with his life. However, the pure demeanor in his timbres escorts us through the emotions he's feeling. Paired with the strength heard by his female counterpart on this record, the two set the tone through a blend of inquisitive melodies and valiant verses. As we're introduced to his track "Free," a liberating feeling comes over us as we listen to the authenticity pours from Chyle MC's timbres. Like most of his songs on "Majestic Constellations," he's been able to give us a fresh sound tied to his identity. "Free" is that breath of fresh air in a major way, and the experience of listening to it feels exactly as it's titled. The lush instrumentation on "Dumb" has us transported to the nostalgia of 90s R&B. Within this splendid atmosphere comes to Chyle MC raving about the things a former lover couldn't fulfill for him. Still, ultimately he just wanted truth and compassion. When we get to the chorus, the rhythmically crooned "Dumb" has us singing along to the flow he effortlessly instills. Now, heading into the vibrant energy of "Day," it's as if Chyle MC is giving us the ultimate pep talk - and we can honestly say we're motivated by it. Sharing glimmers of his experience as he reminds us to "take it day by day," this message couldn't come at a better time. Another record of having a collaboration, Chyle MC joins forces with B-Self to illuminate the silver lining etched into this real offering. The bold rhyme schemes of B-Self complement Chyle MC's magnetic cascades triumphantly as we feel refreshed by the message within. Sending us into a slick universe with a tight groove, the elusive sound of "Dance" is bound to put rhythm in anyone's step. From the way Chyle Mc approaches the verses in a distinct manner that allows you to either move to the breezy words or focus solely on the beat, there's an undeniable energy that he spearheads as he showcases the nature of his artistry. Making us curious and wanting more of what he has to offer, "Dance" is a prime example of what he does so well. After taking in "Majestic Constellations," it's apparent that Chyle MC is on a mission to change how we view music genres. Infusing myriad sounds into this compilation of sounds, he gets the bigger picture of music being a universal language. So check out 'Majestic Constellations' and brace yourself for the phenomena. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Chyle MC, and congratulations on releasing your album, 'Majestic Constellations.' We love your energy in such an authentic reflection of yourself. What inspired the creation and approach we hear? Well, thank you for the compliment...I appreciate it. To answer your question...I'm not sure if it was divine intervention or a midlife crisis. One day after a really rough day at 9 to 5, I was sitting at my table just staring off into the abyss, thinking...what happened. Meaning...is this all there is with my life. So as I got up to go to bed, a voice spoke to me, "Look at you...you have all this talent...and what are you doing with it". So my name is Chyle MC....so the voice said "MC...Master of Ceremony....Microphone Controller....Magical Conductor....Majestic Constellations" So then everything....started to come to me...like, I took the pill from "Limitless" *google the movie. It started to make sense...12 songs...12 constellations...each song is different than the others but still cohesive. Beats that I had sitting for years....all of a sudden, I was able to write something for them. Producers, that are usually too busy to get back to me...all of a sudden sent me amazing beats....lastly the next night, I received an unexpected sum of money to pay for the recording and creation of the album. I'm not preaching religion...or but it was really strange. What message would you like your audience to gather from 'Majestic Constellations?' Not necessarily a message but rather a journey. The album was created to listen from beginning to end and back again...it starts with Lost...which is an uplifting semi-spiritual song....and ends with God...which talks about feeling disconnected from the creator or universe. I want people to be able to laugh...cry...dance...nod your head in your car...play while you are at work or just chilling in the house. You visit many storylines and messages that touch us in relatable ways. Why is the concept behind this album so important to you? I feel that in urban music, especially hip-hop...you are not allowed to be vulnerable or honest about your life. I feel like you are not considered cool...unless you are under 30....talking about drug use....having sex...material wealth...or killing someone, so having a concept where the art is not only in the music but also in the music's creation and the visuals that follow. Everything has to have a point that makes sense. Groups like Outkast, De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest, Bjork, Radiohead, and Classic Micheal Jackson...created black music where you felt like you were there while they were creating their albums...I want the listeners to feel as connected to the songs as I am. Turning down several offers from major record labels, what do you love about being able to create in your realm? Although having the "Big Machine" sponsor your endeavors would be awesome to ensure that the world knew you existed in mass numbers. Having the ability and freedom to create the way I want to without having to answer anyone is great. I probably would never be able to work with who I want or how I want when I have a quota or deadline. Also, seeing some former signed artist give their horror stories of how the "industry" chewed them up and spit them out with nothing to show for it...is downright scary. The only label situation I would ever accept is a promotion profit split where they would just be used for logistics and funding for promotion & marketing. No, recoup...or having to sell my masters or publishing. We have a few favorite songs through your blending of genres, including "Dance." But what's your favorite song heard on this album and why? That is a tough one...because it changes from weekly depending on what mood I'm in. When I left the studio at Zoom in LA, both the engineer and myself agreed that "When" was the catchy one...so driving from LA to Las Vegas, I played that song about 29 times in a row and almost wrecked my car as I was moving so hard....but when I was in Atlanta recording the other half of the album...it was Sugarbaby....that I played so much...I almost missed my flight back to Las Vegas. But now "Dance" and "Way" are my favorites...and "Dance" will be the video I drop on the album's release date. Instagram Facebook

Lucid Aisle is a one-man project formed by Brent Joel Jones that dips into psychedelic rock. Inspired by a series of dreams and visions in 2003 that he took as a calling, this encouragement to start writing and recording his original brand of music comes as a chance for Brent Joel Jones to master multiple instruments as he continues to flourish. In the depths of his latest album, 'Golden Highway,' all musical components are courtesy of Jones himself. Crafting a seamless amalgamation of rock, pop, and improvisational acid jams with hints of krautrock and punk while exploring a broad dynamic of sound in this rock and roll medium, this album can be classified as an abstract rabbit hole of rock n roll. Kicking the album off with a fusion of slow, vibrant rock titled “Pet Me Nice,” Jones crafts a sophisticated atmosphere of mind-altering tenacity that puts us under a spell. The instrumentation is grand as it embraces erudite ease, while Jones’ vocal composition leaves us in a dreamy, washed-away state. However, once the compelling harmonies infiltrate the speakers heading the way for a zesty guitar solo, it’s pretty much game over as you surrender yourself to what’s to come from 'Golden Highway.' With lush guitar strums submerging us in a swelter of gritty nuances, there’s a raw feeling to “Digital Wasteland.” Exploring eclectic verses as Jones’ mind-altering timbres leave us susceptible to the ultimate groove-infused universe, the words he sings are dragged out in the best way possible as he sings about wasting time in this digital wasteland we’re subject to in this day and age. Jones says it best, “put down your phone.” “Pedal to the Floor” is where an exciting dynamic evolves from the previous two tracks we’re exposed to. The organic riffs propel us into this chaotic ambiance that Jones sets in place, creating a vast sense of urgency in true classic rock fashion. It spices up the album’s succession of songs and has us spiraling down another potent psychedelia trip that Lucid Aisle is known to bring forth. Who doesn’t love a distorted synthesis of components in the name of rock n roll? The fourth song on 'Golden Highway' is titled “I Think It’s Kicking In,” and we believe this title is pretty explainable. Leaving off where the previous track ended, this song had us feeling the delicate melodies guessing when our trip would really kick in. But that’s the beauty behind this mastermind creation. As it slowly incorporates more faded, distorted musical concepts as you catch your bearings – you’re left to situate yourself just in time before the next record, “Zelma and Luiz,” begins. Genius. With the warmth of a buoyant groove embracing our speakers, Jones is spearheading this record with a country flair. It’s also where we hear the album’s alluring title, “Golden Highway,” is mentioned, and it all makes perfect sense. This track catapults us into the perfect driving tune where we’re most definitely coasting this golden highway with him. The key to any good album is tempos rise and fall, paving the way for our emotions to get lost within. Lucid Aisle immensely does that, and it never feels forced. Instead, it’s the moment where “Collective Chaos” unravels, and we hear the prominence of sustain more established than ever. There’s something to say about this head in the clouds ballad as it tours us through disarrayed flashes only to lead us into an entrancing reflection of our thoughts. The second last on the track list, “Self Salvation,” takes us back to the gritty roots of Lucid Aisle as this grunge-Esque record coils with an investigational feel to create a fuzzy and disjointed fusion that falls together like a puzzle piece. Jones sings textured yet velvety croons that double in effect to usher you into the song’s clasp. Pulling us into yet another sizzling guitar solo rich in classic aspects of rock, and we can honestly say that will never get old. Bringing us to the end of 'Golden Highway,' Lucid Aisle engenders us with the final record, “Shapeshifter.” What a perfect song title to complete this album considering every element Jones showed us was rich in experimental hues as it also brought forth traditional components of genres we love to this day. As each lyrical motif trails into the next, words like “there’s gotta be a way to keep the demons astray behind a million masks posing as a soulful vessel” immerse us in the abstract concept rich in Jones’ mind. After exposing our minds to the expansive essence of Brent Joel Jones’ solo project, we can truly say we’re fans of Lucid Aisle. The diverse concepts parade through the speakers in a way that’s insightful and legendary. Mixing a deluxe combination of ambiguous vocals and instrumentation that embodies the quintessence of a sonic soundscape, 'Golden Highway' is an album you need to tap into immediately. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Lucid Aisle. The entirety of 'Golden Highway' had us at the edge of our seats throughout our listening experience. What inspired the various concepts heard across this body of work? Hello, and thank you, BuzzMusic. There were 60's and 70's influences like songs from ‘The Flamin Groovies,' 'Damon the Gipsy,' 'Erkin Koray,' 'Marleena Shaw,' early ‘Pink Floyd,’ and ‘The Animals,’ to name. I also was listening to a 30-plus hour playlist called 'If Tarantino was a bar man' around the time, which is all from that era. I wanted the record to be consistent with no stops. Make some songs bleed into each other. Keep the momentum and flow going the whole time. Sonically and vocally, every piece is like a different character, persona, or entity. Since you embarked on this project solo, how long did it take you to unravel the stories heard and compose such thought-provoking pieces? A few songs were musically and lyrically written years before the recording started. 'Collective Chaos' was written in 2016. 'Pet me Nice' in 2018. Then there are others like 'Digital Wasteland' which I wrote the main guitar part just a few weeks before I started recording it while this record was already in progress. That song just came out of the blue and was the first to be mixed. The lyrics of 'Shapeshifter' were written right at the time of tracking vocals. They all happen when they happen. Sometimes, pre-meditation is involved in what the song will be about before writing it down. It was around late 2018 or early 2019 when I started to envision the concept of this album. But I really was more focused on the songs than the concept though the concept unfolded over time. There were a lot of incidents and chaos going on in life while tracking and mixing this record. It was a tough time. But it was a mission to get it done. I want to thank musician, sound engineer, and friend Javier Yontez for helping me to get it tracked and mixed. He co-produced a lot of it. He was very passionate about it, and I don't know if I could have finished it without him. Within the eight songs produced, do you happen to have a favorite? Why? It has to be song 5, "Zelma and Luiz." Here’s why…Though the lyrics are simple, the song has multiple meanings and layers. It also brings the whole album together. The words 'Golden Highway' are mentioned twice in the music. And like the lyric, "outta the way very late for an important date, gotta make some time for the queen of the golden highway', it's referencing 'Alice in Wonderland' with the White Rabbit who keeps saying, "I'm late I'm late for a very important date," urgently rushing to get to the queen at the end of the story. So it's like the listener is in the position of Alice, intrigued by the rabbit, following him into the unknown, leading her through this tripped-out journey of unusual characters (like the songs and pieces through the album) to the queen of hearts at the end. The Wizard of Oz is a very similar story. Dorothy has a similar experience as Alice. Plus, the yellow brick road: the golden highway... Another similar film is "Labyrinth." You can even tie these villainous characters like the Queen of Hearts, the Wicked Witch of the West, and David Bowie’s character, Jareth, to the last song, ‘Shapeshifter.’ Zelma and Luiz is a play on words to the film, 'Thelma and Louise.' Two female best friends take off on a road trip and, early on, run into trouble. Though their intentions are good, they are left in a situation of injustice, forcing them to keep driving forward as fugitives.. a one-way ticket on the highway. When you listen to the middle of the song 'Zelma and Luiz' when the beat and melody split in half right off the cliff... well, you'd have to see the end of the movie if you haven't yet. As far as the rest of the songs, they might as well be strange and unique characters and experiences that the main characters of these films/stories come across on their journey. The songs 'Pedal to the Floor' and 'I think it's Kicking In' lead right up to the centerpiece of the album, 'Zelma and Luiz' where they ride into the sunset leading to their death and then into a sort of dream world going into the rest of the story. I see now that it is the climax of the whole record. And just like any art form, it can be open to interpretation. It's wild to answer this question because it’s made me look deeper into it. Realizing the classic fictional undertones. It's fascinating how intuition works in a creative process. It's the subconscious and unconscious that is mainly responsible for the concept of this album. What differences in the creation process do you encounter when you jam with your additional band members, Mub Fractal (bass) and Noah Bunker (drums)? Mub and Noah are fun and great to work with, and they beautifully hold down the rhythm section. They are really good at skillfully complimenting the vision and also enhancing it. And they're good people. When we play the songs on this latest album and the prior one, they sound like the songs but in a trio setting with a rawness and improvisation at times. I like that. It's human. It has been exciting to play live in this lineup. With so much new material coming out, we put them together pretty quickly. And with only 3 of us right now, it lets us create the base of the live sound open for other musicians to come in potentially. After one month of being together as a trio, at our second show, we played close to an hour 1/2 set of songs on the recording and new material not released yet, which has let us get tighter in practice and on stage. What’s your mission statement as an artist? How does “Golden Highway” speak to this? I want to keep exploring the creative process. I want to have fun with it. Own it. Mean it. Put my whole being into it through performance. My mission statement is to keep seeking Truth and figure out how to express that through art, music, writing, and singing. Sometimes it’s a metaphor. Sometimes it’s a song about real-life experiences. Sometimes those intertwine. Maybe it's right on the surface. Perhaps it's as deep as Atlantis. 'Golden Highway' is about letting go of the mundane and predictable routine of daily life in society and embracing the unknown friction and wonderment that unfolds—being in the present moment, taking a chance. Letting go, facing the realizations, trials, and tribulations within the self and the world as we know it around us. It's about life, the world, and personal experience but also can have a fictional twist in a rock and roll aesthetic. Instagram Facebook

Made up of brothers Chase Kauhane and Carl Kauhane, the indie band, Olelo is based out of and native to Big Island, Hawaii. Olelo tells their stories through the lens of modern Hawaiian culture and music as they represent a new indie sound emerging from the Pacific Islands. Their indie acoustic-pop songs are co-written with Malibu songwriter Nitanee Paris and produced by LA engineer Mark Dorflinger. Through the warmth and organic sounds of their latest single, “Lean Into Me,” we get a profound view of Olelo’s looking glass. Behind each sincere lyrical motif that delves into the heartfelt essence of leaning into your person during times of anxiety and hardship, the passion emanated outwards of this record captures a fruitful light. This sincere message comes when mental health awareness is rising, and a call to action is needed. As the earnest guitar strums progress, they make up most of the instrumentation, encapsulating a simplistic elegance to “Lean Into Me,” thus allowing the focus to be on every soulful word performed. Each verse seamlessly evolves into the chorus as ambient pads and poignant keys trickle through the speakers. The quintessence of Olelo unravels as the bridge comes hurdling in, and we fixate upon the passionate word, “I’m right here.” Stepping up to ensure that nobody feels alone, Olelo’s “Lean Into Me” is a profound representation of their mission – to make people feel more than just the music. Listen to “Lean Into Me” on all streaming platforms today. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Olelo. We loved taking in your latest release, “Lean Into Me.” With such a heartfelt message pouring through this single, what inspired the initiative to create a song regarding mental health? The headspace we were in when we wrote Lean into Me with our co-writer Nitanee Paris was about having the desire to shelter the ones we love while simultaneously struggling to be seen and heard through the hurt our loved ones were experiencing. The emotion showcased embodies artistry at its finest. Do your songs often take such a sincere spotlight? We try to be as real as we can. Having our sound engineer Mark Dorflinger record the songs as we write them on the same day if we can. In a way, our songs are like documented Testimonies. Is there a large stigma surrounding mental health in Hawaii, or do you feel the resources are adequate? What’s your personal experience, and what do you wish to see? Hawaii has always been filled with Natural resources for mental health found in our beautiful oceans, forest, and waterfalls. But in our modern culture and as a people, we are losing access to those resources due to miss management, terrible leadership in the state, and simply not speaking out about it. There definitely is a stigma when it comes to mental health in Hawaii's culture. Personally, we were raised in a broken home where our Mother was regularly abused mentally and physically by our father, who spent time in and out of prison because of it. So writing songs and singing about healing and protecting the ones we love is healing in and of itself for us. What advice do you have for your audience struggling to manage their mental health? Don’t be silent about it. Sing the hurt out loud, and someone who knows and loves you will hear you. Anyone can DM us anytime at @olelo_music. We’d love to talk to you! What is your mission statement as a band? Do you feel that “Lean Into Me” speaks on that? Our mission statement is found in our band's name. ‘Olelo is a Hawaiian word directly translated to English means “To Speak.” We hope all of our music speaks to the heart of Ke Akua’s love and encouragement. We deeply respect our collaborators on this song, Rob Kleiner, who did the masters on this song, Again Mark Doerflinger, our sound engineer, and our co-writer Nitanee Paris. Lean into Me is an extension of our band's values and an invitation to all those we love. Instagram Facebook

Fusing disco, soul, funk, and house to create a retro sound for modern times, London-based group Discoda joins forces with South African songstress Sannie Fox. Uniquely blending Sannie Fox's desert blues, soul, and psychedelic rock singer-songwriter aptitudes with Discoda's combined background in soul, funk, jazz, and reggae, as well as house music and pop production, this record embodies a retro yet modern feel destined for dancefloors and radio plays alike. Sure to get us moving, "Sweet Release" is the danceable groove of 2023 that has us fueled with constant movement. Discoda emanates a hypnotic foundation that sends glimmers of 70s dance through the speakers, all while capturing the essence of chic dance club vibes of the 2010s within the infectious nuances. With upbeat drum patterns and a charismatic rush of airy and dazzling synths that usher you towards the compelling nature of "Sweet Release," myriad feel-good vibes stem from this song. As Sannie Fox cascades her bold and sultry croons upon the rhythmically charged composition, we get glamorous hints of nostalgia in how she presents herself. She professes many relatable lyrics while coming off as cool, collected, and unbothered. Dripping with authenticity in the playful yet truthful lyrics, "Sweet Release" has a reminiscent atmosphere that acts as if Lady Gaga were thrown into a time machine and sent to the past - making all of the luxury dance hits we crave to this day. Not too far off. Propelling this ambiance through the intoxicating melodies that are easy to get lost within, the memorability and catchiness of "Sweet Release" is an easy playlist add and has us singing this song long after it comes to an end. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Discoda and Sannie Fox! Congratulations on the release of "Sweet Release." This song brings life to your best artistic attributes, and we loved taking it in! What inspired the nostalgic and unapologetic essence of this song? Sannie Fox: 90s house, 70s silky disco, big vocals Discoda: Dom and I are both musically rooted in soul, funk, jazz, and disco, and I think the vibe of the track is founded on all those elements. A couple of people have said the song reminds them of the acid jazz genre, which hadn't occurred to me, but it's a style of music we were really into as teenagers when it blew up in the 90s, so there are perhaps some additional nostalgic inspirations there. You both bring something so unique to the track and complement one another throughout your shared dynamic. How did this collaboration come to be? What was it like working with one another? Sannie Fox: Thanks. I met Dom a while back, and we've played as guests in each other's solo projects. We have similar tastes in music, i.e., soul, jazz, blues, dub, and so it turns out, electronic music too. Dom & Rick were getting started with Discoda last year & sent a few beats to me, which had no vocals yet. I liked the sound and added some electric guitar and synths, then I went to the studio to sing, and in the end, after they had mixed, reshaped, and mastered, we had a song - "Sweet Release." Discoda: Sannie and Dom met a few years ago and realized they were musically on the same page, both fans of soul and blues, and both gigging in London. When we formed Discoda, we wanted to collaborate with Sannie, and while putting this track together, we thought it could be a good fit for her to stamp her own talent and personality on it. The track actually started from an idea that contained nothing more than a simple chord pattern and drum beat before we built the groove and arrangement up into a solid instrumental demo. We then passed it to Sannie, who added her own vocals, and they fitted the track so well that the song instantly made sense. Usually, when writing songs, the lyrics and melody would come a lot earlier in the process rather than get added at the end when the music is pretty much finished, but with Sannie, it just worked seamlessly. We all get on really well, too, so the writing process was always enjoyable. We hear various musical inspirations through the time capsule of sounds you convey in "Sweet Release." Who do you look up to as musical influences? What about non-musical? Sannie Fox: I love many different genres of music and different artists. I always come back to some of my favorites like Jimi Hendrix, Busi Mhlongo, Bob Dylan, Massive Attack, John Lee Hooker, Ali Farka Toure, etc... I love RnB, techno, classical music, and psych rock. Lately, I have been listening to Sleaford Mods, Baxter Drury, and Bonnie Rait. Non-Musical - I am a fan of visual artists Dagmar Schurrer and Kristin Liu-Wong. Discoda: I couldn't name particular individuals here as there are just too many performers, composers, and producers that Dom and I admire. Most of our influences are fairly retro and steeped in soul, funk, jazz, and disco, as I said, but there are a lot of new artists we listen to and look up to as well. I've always had a passion for house music, too, and was part of a house duo in the 90s, so the Discoda sound is borne out of a combination of Dom's multi-instrumentalist talents (guitar, bass, trumpet, drums, and vocals) and my background in dance music production. That means that the end result is pretty organic and soulful but with some digital elements thrown in and all underpinned by a four-to-the-floor disco/house groove. What message do you hope your audience takes away from this track? Sannie Fox: No message, really. The song is about a positive feeling, so hopefully, it inspires uplifting energy. Discoda: That's a question more aimed at Sannie, I think, but I just hope it makes people feel good and puts smiles on their faces. I think the end result is pretty chilled and uplifting, so it might help soothe some stress! What's next for you? Sannie Fox: Discoda and I have a second single, which will be released later this year. In the meantime, I have my own album I am working on, and between that, there is another collab song coming out with a different project later this year. Discoda: We've got another song in the pipeline that's been written in exactly the same way - we had an instrumental track that we gave to Sannie to add her own melody and lyrics, and she's again come up with some amazing vocals that fit perfectly. That will be our third single which will be out in April/May. Before then, we're hosting a launch party for Sweet Release in Shoreditch on 28 Jan. Sannie Instagram Discoda Instagram

Modern Wing is an electro-indie pop duo from Chicago, Illinois, consisting of co-songwriters and multi-instrumentalists Michael Mazza and Emily Quinn. Complimenting each other's strengths, Michael handles guitar, bass, synthesizers, programming, and arranging duties, and Emily is the vocalist, lyricist, and melody writer and plays piano and synthesizers. The recent release of their three-track EP "No Better Love" amalgamates eclectic elements that have us surfing through components of various genres. Emulating a medley of vintage and galactic resonance that pushes the envelope of common themes heard, Modern Wing takes the beauty of instruments in the analog and digital realm to expand their minds imaginatively and intuitively. The EP's lead single and title track, "No Better Love," cites the classic and iconic bands Garbage and Depeche Mode as key influences. It wraps us in an otherworldly atmosphere that combines dark nuances with buoyant lyrical motifs, wording like "And there's no better love, no better love than this," offer that gratified relief as we hypnotically slip into the alluring energy of this single. Emily's elusive croons teeter on a narrative about what happens when you choose a path that contradicts the one expected of you – quite like the contrast and dynamism heard throughout the song. Lush guitar riffs head the second song, "I Won't Stop." Brilliantly expanding into primitive, 80s-inspired synths, ambient pads, and a rhythmic bassline you feel in your chest, the day and night comparison between "No Better Love" and "I Won't Stop" tour you through a vocal warmth and effervescent nature that's instilled in the composition of infectious grooves. Speaking into not stopping no matter who or why tries to steer Modern Wing away from their loves and passions, you hear the authenticity pouring through empowering croons and instrumentation that radiates optimism, exploration, and the journey within. "If You Don't (Alternate Version)" comes to us as the final puzzle piece of "No Better Love." Michael's quick-paced guitar strums set the intensity as they bob and weave to round out a poignant showcase that flutters with airy synths and an ambiance of determination. Fixated on the soulful timbres that Emily performs wholeheartedly, we admire the acoustic forward power ballad as the EP's final note. Reiterating that there's no time to waste on people and opportunities not meant for you, "If you don't want me, if you don't feel me, I won't be waiting just to be hazy," are the words that we'll be chanting through and through. With a variety of themes that explore the depths and crannies of visited genres, Modern Wing has a way of sending out significant messages through untried sounds bound to find your heart. Delve into "No Better Love" as Modern Wings steers you into a life of originality and conviction. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Modern Wing. We loved taking in the entirety of your three-track EP, "No Better Love." With an array of sounds and concepts on this project, what is the central theme that ties this all together? These three songs are tied together musically by how they each portray our sound, the guitar and synth lacing through the driving rhythms, the addition of the piano, and the vocals and melodic lyricism. Lyrically, “No Better Love” is about knowing who is there for you, no matter what. “I Won’t Stop” is about persistence to reach your goals, even when others put you down. They are related in that they both explore relationships and how to navigate through the influence of these relationships. Some are negative, some are positive, and those who love you will support you and be happy when you find success in a genuine way, being true to who you are. “If You Don’t (Alternate Version)” is a re-mix of a single we released a few years ago, but it does follow a similar theme in that it’s about the influence of a toxic relationship and how leaving that relationship is the best way to move forward in pursuit of one’s aspirations, happiness, and fulfillment. We would love it if you could share a glimpse of the creative process endured when bringing "No Better Love" to life. How long did it take for you to create this body of work? We worked little by little in our respective home studios, chipping away at the songs in our spare time. All three songs on this release started with a guitar riff or chord progression that Michael had and that we built upon from there. For example, the song “No Better Love” first started with an upbeat guitar riff and pop-sounding. Then we paired it with some underlying synths. The song took a slightly dark and dissonant turn sonically, which we liked and found interesting, particularly when juxtaposed with the positive lyrics. We wrote the bulk of these songs a few years ago and slowly added to them and re-recorded parts until they were released. We both try to keep the creative process fun and low-pressure as we work toward our goals little by little. We both do this because we enjoy it and for the love of music, which in the end, is what we believe to be most important. How important is it for you to boast positive themes throughout your music? What message do you hope your audience can take away from the EP? Positive themes are important, but I wouldn’t say we focused on that too much. At times, what you need to say is not necessarily very uplifting or inspiring, and to me, it’s more important to speak the truth, that it comes from the heart and is genuine. Focusing too much on trying to make something a certain way can detract from overall creativity and often produces a forced, mediocre song. “I Won’t Stop” is a universal truth that I think a lot of people can relate to, and it held meaning to me personally, as one who can sometimes dwell too much on what others think. If any lyric on this project could sum up who you are as Modern Wing, which one would it be and why? If any lyric sums up who we are as a duo, I will say, "I won’t stop until my dying day!” It’s true. There were times when we might have stopped the project because it was moving slowly. We weren’t gaining any momentum with things going on in our personal lives and other music projects, but when it came down to it, we both kept going, even when it was just a little bit here and there, and didn’t stop. And, what came out of it, and what will continue to come out of it, are some great songs that we can be proud of and share with others. That’s what it’s all about. What's next for you? We have several new songs in various stages of completion that we hope to release at the end of this year. If all goes as planned, they will be released as part of a six-song EP titled “Lights.” The EP will feature a wider array of emotional sentiments, sonics, and a surprise 80’s cover song. We also may try to work up a live version of our songs to perform publicly on occasion in the Chicago area. Instagram Facebook

Raised on Canada's west coast in White Rock, British Columbia, Amanda Kind now calls Waterloo, Ontario, home. Growing up, her biggest musical inspirations came from a wide variety of artists, from Dolly Parton, Ella Fitzgerald, and Barbra Streisand, to Alanis Morrisette, Green Day, Mariah Carey, and more. Known for her powerful voice and soaring range, Amanda's broad spectrum of musical influences has led to a versatile career singing everything from country, pop, and rock, to jazz, musical theatre, and even opera. Through a passionate display of poise and adoration, the emotive soundscape wrapped up in her latest single, "Slow Dance," whisks us into the unalloyed quintessence of Amanda Kind. The crisp and poignant strum of a guitar riff so elegant yet simplistic makes up the musical bed on which Amanda lays her powerful croons. As each drum hit explodes with a sense of purpose, the rhythmic essence of "Slow Dance" makes you want to do that. "The pandemic taught us a lot of things - one of the big lessons for me was how important real-life connection is. No screen can replace the feeling of being with someone and getting to know them by spending time together in person," Amanda Kind says. As we take in the moving instrumentation and sway our bodies to the beat of Kind's drum, we grasp the meaning of this record in its entirety. Delving into the importance of patience and easing into love, she showcases this rich narrative from a place of compassion and understanding. Encouraging her audience to cherish the finer moments in life as they truly pass us by in the blink of an eye, the beauty emanating from this country ballad speaks to those craving an old-school romance. Sweeping us up with her soulful performance, each word Amanda Kind professes is more prominent than the last. She has a grand voice meant to be heard and encapsulates the beauty within her; we're all drawn towards her charismatic quintessence. Listen to "Slow Dance" on all major streaming platforms today. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Amanda Kind, and congratulations on releasing your latest single, "Slow Dance." How does it feel to have such a passionate and emotion-fueled ballad out? Thanks so much for having me, BuzzMusic! I’m a huge fan of big voices with emotional impact like Patsy Cline, Adele, or Martina McBride, so I wanted this song to have epic power ballad energy while at the same time feeling modern and sexy. “Slow Dance” is personal because I’m still searching for the kind of “record store romance” that the song talks about. So many of my friends and I are getting tired of the instant gratification world that we live in, where everything - including falling in love - feels so rushed. We crave that slow-burn kind of connection, and that’s what this song is all about. It feels great to have the song out there finally. I’ve been playing it live for months and getting such amazing audience reactions. People have been coming up to me after gigs or messaging me on Instagram to let me know how much they love this song, and that input influenced my release timeline… I put the song out sooner than I originally planned because the live-show response was incredible. It’s a wonderful and humbling feeling when people connect strongly with a song you’ve written. We notice every ounce of emotion you pour into this record. Do you find it fairly easy to tap into such a vulnerable place? I come from a theatre background and have always been strongly connected to my feelings. I was a bit of a drama queen as a teen - I’ve always worn my heart on my sleeve, so it gets easily broken. A song like this is vulnerable and confident simultaneously because the lyrics and the emotions are deeply relevant to my real life. The melody in “Slow Dance” compliments the lyrics in a beautiful way, so telling the song's story naturally has highs and lows built into it. I love the way the chorus lifts off with big, sweeping notes. It feels so good to let them soar - a cathartic release of big emotion. Recording “Slow Dance” was both fun and difficult. It’s a challenging vocal line, but so satisfying to sing. Basking in the profound essence of the instrumentation and lyrical motifs, we can only imagine how special it was to create a song like this. Please shine a light on the creative process that brought this song to life. I held onto the idea of “Slow Dance” for a while before figuring out who to co-write the song with. I knew I wanted something that had a classic essence to it. I previously wrote another song with David Madras and Matt Koebel, and I felt they understood me musically. We got together on Zoom, and the song just flowed out of us in about 2 1/2 hours. I knew right away that it felt special. I particularly like the long-held notes in the chorus and the jagged stops in the verse instrumentation; they give the song character. Matt and I worked to find a balance between old-school Patsy Cline-type sentimentality and that modern country energy. I love the way the song came together. I was lucky to have incredible players on the tune: Emile d’Eon and Stu Weinberg on Guitar, Mark Rynkun on Bass, Rich DaSilva on drums, Ed Ringwald on Pedal Steel, and Matt Koebel on Keys. With striking visuals to match, what can you tell your audience about the meaning behind the "Slow Dance" music video? The song “Slow Dance” itself is a bit serious sounding, but the music video is packed with romantic comedy silliness. We had so much fun. I worked with AJ Astle and Jonny Diano at Roadhouse Productions, and we asked my friend Patrick Stiles, a film actor and musical theatre performer, to play opposite me. He was game for anything - I even got him to slide into a scene in his underwear, Risky Business style. I was nervous about starring in the video because I’m a plus-size woman, and I know how judgmental people can be about that. I strongly considered having someone else act it out. But then, the more I thought about it, the more I realized that we need more visual representations of different body types in romantic stories. If I hide, I am uplifting stereotypes and limitations I don’t believe in. Love happens to people of all shapes and sizes. Anyway, I hope people will appreciate the cheesiness. My favorite moment in the video is the meet-cute eye glance across the bargain bin at the record store. I laugh out loud every time. What are you looking forward to the most in 2023? My debut country EP is coming out this summer. “Slow Dance” is the second single from that project. The first single, “Love Used To Live Here,” came out last summer. I’ll be releasing three more songs this year leading up to that EP release. The next Rebel Spirof is coming out on March 8 - International Women’s Day. I’m stoked about it; it’s a rockin’ girl-power anthem in all the best ways. I get butterflies when I share my songs with the world, and at the same time, I’m starting to feel less and less afraid about what people think of me. The more I do this, the less I worry about fitting in and the more excited I get about just doing my thing and seeing what happens. I guess that comes with age - you know who you are, and you get radically brave about living your truth. Instagram Facebook

After fronting several bands as a lead vocalist, Mayhemtom (Tom John) retreated to the busy world of medicine. However, he returned to music in recent years. He was drawing songwriting inspiration from authentic sources such as a difficult childhood, initial aspirations as a musician, the incredible highs, the trauma of working as an oncologist, and a period of experiencing burnout. Resulting in his most recent full body of work, the album 'The Art Of Flying While Falling,' is a collection of songs that dance through a range of styles. From upbeat rockers, funk-based grooves, and dark ballads to atmospheres reminiscent of Radiohead, each component mirrors influences and moods at the heart of the music. If that's the case, Mayhemtom is a direct reflection of the illuminated and effervescent world around him with the album's lead single, "Falling." As Mayhemtom immerses us in a dreamy upbeat realm of profound realization, the poignant keys present in this record act as the soundtrack to our life the moment we press play. We admire the radiant atmosphere that's present as Mayhemtom showcases his authentic persona as he shares with us his lessons of love and moving beyond the dirt life can sometimes bring you. Paired with a dynamic guitar riff that effortlessly tours you through the song's sonic and narrative peaks and valleys and a bassline that rumbles in your heart, Mayhemtom's grand timbres bloom from the instrumentation. Offering his audience a supple yet prevailing essence as he pours emotion into lyrics like "In my dreams, I was flying, in reality, I was falling," it's impossible to shy away from the intoxicating allure that he bestows upon us. As we indulge ourselves in "Falling," Mayhemtom truly brings a lively energy to this record, allowing it to stand out from the crowd. Giving us a glimpse of what unfolds in 'The Art Of Flying While Falling,' we feel we have direct insight into the heart and mind Mayhemtom places in his music. Treat yourself to "Falling" on all major streaming platforms. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Mayhemtom! We love your passion in the album's lead single, "Falling." Please share some insight into the inspiration behind this record. Falling is a song about unconditional love, written about my wife. It was written during a difficult time when I was going through a period of burnout. During those times, I felt very alone, but my wife really showed me she was right by my side the whole way. When we look at the album in all its glory, what's the concept you placed into 'The Art Of Flying While Falling?' The concept wasn’t predetermined. When I looked back on the songs I had written that went into the album, the word “falling” came up in several songs independently. I also began to realize that while I thought I was fine during those tough periods, I was falling. But the art was in pretending to not only seem normal but to be doing even better! This is why the album was called the art of flying - it's perspective which you sometimes only glean after you have landed, that you were falling and being held up, not flying. We can only imagine how profound it is to see you perform these songs live. Has the reception been great at concerts? Do you have a favorite track off the album to share with the crowd? Yes, the album debut live show was amazing. There were around 200 people in the room, and it really went off. People got right into it; it was such a relief. The song I still love the most about the album is Alone. It is a little more complex as a song, switching between 5/4 and 4/4 and a string part that rises into the melodic minor. Unfortunately, it is hard to emulate the strings live, but it is still a lot of fun to play. But the song that I love playing live the most is called Hurt. There is a lot of emptiness, where the band is doing very little, mixed with some powerful lyrics. The change at the end has a soaring guitar solo that is magnificent. I love playing and getting into it on stage. Through the moving lyrics you powerfully perform in this song, what message would you like your audience to take away? Each song has its own story. There isn't a unifying message. I think the album is complex but catchy. There is a lot of silence and emptiness in the tracks, which we really worked hard to maintain. The album is dark, with abuse, betrayal, and divorce themes. But there are lighter moments too. What would you like this album to say about you as an artist? I find I am drawn to darker indie music in general. Bands such as the National, Elliot Smith, and Radiohead are bands I have loved for some time. I would like this album to reflect these darker themes. I think wallowing in these themes helps deal with grief and despair. But I also want the album to reflect positivity. Behind all the darkness, there is light and hope. As an artist, I would hope the audience would appreciate the music is sophisticated but very accessible and the themes in the songs have a deeper meaning. Instagram Facebook

Pop artist Vlade Kay released his new hot single, “Dancing Through The Night.” The Disco sounds and funky sense will heat up the night. Vlade Kay is an artist who stands out with his dancing and singing abilities. Vlad was born in Russia, his mother is a singer, and his father was the drummer of a band, so he grew up surrounded by music. Then he went to Los Angeles once he decided to expand the frontiers of his music. After collaborating with DJ Snake, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, this time Vlad Kay gives us “Dancing Through The Night.” It is the story of a fictional pole dancer who entertains adults at night and is a mother during the day. The masterfully done instrumentals have strong Michael Jackson vibes. “Dancing Through The Night” starts with a Disco ambiance, with a moving riff and a dominant bass that makes your spine shiver. Vlad Kay’s vocals are melodic and inviting. It caresses your ears. He knows how to get the best from it and produce tons of energy you can’t hold for long. You need to sing along. The moving instrumentals contrast with the dark story in the lyrics. “Dancing Through The Night” is an ode to the love of a mother. Vlad Kay lends his musical talent to it with a passion he transmits. Every second of “Dancing Through The Night” is full of glam and funk but also heart. Give in to the rhythm and the night after hitting the play button on “Dancing Through The Night.” Instagram Facebook

A collective of diverse backgrounds, indie rockers The Missing Frets write songs that weave together lyrical content that is both relatable and thought-provoking. The band's concept was inspired by songwriter and guitarist Shaun Lovell and materialized in 2013 when his wife, Bindu, decided to join the project as bassist. Originally out of Durban, South Africa, the duo relocated to Philly in 2016. They teamed up with local drummer Johnny Martin and are now based in Maryland's Eastern Shore. Fusing the rooted rhythmical heritage of the lead singer's homeland, they forge a raw, energetic sound under gritty guitar riffs. This allows potent musicality to come unraveling from their latest single, "One Track Mind," as The Missing Frets follows their tantalizing recipe for creating a hit song. The jaunty riffs set a buoyant tone alongside the deep bass grooves and effervescent percussion, making the rhythm impossible to sit still to. As The Missing Frets take us on this sonic rollercoaster of feel-good vibes meets earnest storytelling, we're ushered into the song's narrative convincingly as the unique and robust timbres allow each lyrical motif to swaddle you. Diving into the intricately crafted words, lyrics like "You're stuck in a one-track mind, in someone else's timeline" have us fixated on the highly relatable quintessence in the song. There are constant worries about living on someone else's agenda when you could live on your own accord. The kicker is how prominent this worry is amongst the minds of all residing on this earth. The Missing Frets allow us to take this composition for what it is in a playful manner: a public service announcement to re-evaluate our lives and start living for ourselves but in a bold and non-preachy way. So, take in the entirety of "One Track Mind" on all major streaming platforms today. Welcome to BuzzMusic, The Missing Frets. It's great to have you here chatting with us about your hit, "One Track Mind." What moment or story inspired such a profound message to be sent out in this song? Hey, thanks. This song was inspired by Shaun's experience at one point in his life when he was working in what felt like a dead-end job, controlled and influenced by a boss that was not very open to change or consideration for the workers beneath him. It is kind of an outburst song written to cope with the circumstance. We would love an introduction to the band members and how each person comes together to help create brilliant records like this one. Shaun is the lead vocalist, guitarist, and primary songwriter; he has a natural gift for bringing lyrics into melody. Lately, there have been more lyrical collaboration between members. Bindu is the bassist, backing vocalist, and, more recently, a contributor in the songwriting realm; she brings poetic tendencies. As a former modern dancer, she brings movement to the music. Johnny is the drummer; he has an uncanny ability for song structure and essential accents that complement the melody. The band's process usually unfolds through a stripped-down acoustic song idea into the DAW sent to Johnny. We bounce ideas back and forth until we come up with a definitive structure. Once we have a solid demo, we begin the final tracking and production process. Sometimes artists stay away from specific topics due to them not fitting their style. How important is it for you to relay your messages in a way that stays true to your craft? Can all messages be done like this? It is not really important to us because if we feel strongly enough about the message, there can be a song there, and if a song manifests, there is a potential for music or good art that is naturally inspired. And if we are inspired, then we are true to our style. How does "One Track Mind" compare to other songs in your music catalog? We think it has a similar sound to the songs of the 'Pipe Dreams' EP, with crunchy rhythm guitar but a subtle punkish feel. What can we expect to see and hear from you in 2023? We have some exciting things, including a series of singles to release throughout the year. Some full-length music videos, alternative versions of older songs, and some signature covers are in the arsenal. And, of course, some live shows are in the works. Instagram Facebook