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Parisian rapper MIKANO has been lucky enough to visit the four corners of the world during the first part of his life. At 17, his family settled in Paris, where he began composing and writing, inspired by the music that touched him at each stage of his life and travels. Made for those who love the sound of Frank Ocean, Blood Orange, or Kid Cudi, the multitude of influences set rapper MIKANO apart from the rest. With a unique sound never heard before, MIKANO brings forth an intimate and deep sound while juggling lightness and strength. Taking his listeners from one extreme to another, MIKANO is a natural at transporting his audience through various headspaces. “Tell a Lie” is a track that does this extraordinarily, tinged with his immaculate flows and fresh vigor. Hailing from his EP titled ‘AKWA II,’ this record is a modern poem about honesty and human relationships. As we unravel the contents and the heartfelt essence behind it, MIKANO’s words manage to embed themselves into our minds. The compelling core of the instrumentation transmits some dark undercurrents that complement his vocalization in such a thoughtful manner. In MIKANO’s performance of “Tell a Lie,” he transitions between a melodic projection in his cascades, and raw, rapped verses that leave an impact. We’re kept on our toes throughout each verse as we eagerly await the delivery he’ll embark on at any given time, all while he emphasizes specific lyrics that leap from the speakers. MIKANO succeeds at bringing comprehensive lyrical motifs to life as he finesses each groove in this record. Presenting us with a testimony of our wrong behaviors, MIKANO’s presence offers a calming sense to the listening experience, even though the words he utters are drenched in the cold hard truth. Bringing life to “Tell a Lie,” we’re left wanting more as we digest the remarkable energy and message that MIKANO conveys long after this record ends. Welcome to BuzzMusic, MIKANO. Congratulations on the release of “Tell a Lie.” After a deep listen to this song, it’s apparent how much we admire the extensive creativity reflected throughout. Was there a particular moment or story that inspired the words heard in “Tell a Lie?" Thank you, guys! There was no particular story; it was just the result of my life experiences that made me realize somehow, everybody feels divided on that matter. We’re all lying sometimes because we’re afraid to hurt, so sometimes it comes from a genuine feeling, and the song is made to question whether it’s a good idea. You manage to convey your work effortlessly. With such a unique style of artistry, how did you come to find your sound? Sutus, my brother and main beatmaker, is the reason. We started making music together, and from this point, we evolved and became more comfortable creating our sound. We’ve got different influences, but we are connecting on many similarities. I think this is what helped me design my style. How does “Tell a Lie” fit into the scope of your EP ‘AKWA II’? What other themes can listeners expect to find throughout the body of work? It fits perfectly because the EP is based on honesty, personal growth, and the desire for freedom. "Tell a Lie" is one of the main tracks that embody those themes, alongside "Cycles" and "Changes," which I believe to be as powerful as this one even though they’re less energetic. Listeners will be happy to know that a music video accompanies the sound of “Tell a Lie.” What can you tell us about the creative process you embarked on to tell the visual tale? I had a meeting with Ferina at the time, the director for "Tell a Lie" and "Touché Coulé," and it was a short conversation because he knew exactly where I wanted to go with this. We just wanted to portray different « regular » situations that make us feel forced to lie. That’s why we picked three approaches: through family, friends, and lovers. It was important for us to choose these because it’s something that anybody can relate to; it’s a universal statement. What’s next for you? Lots of surprises, haha can’t really say it for now, but I was already working on what’s coming next. It’s really an everlasting journey. But we’ve got vinyl coming your way and a couple of shows for now. Stay tuned! And stay safe! Instagram Facebook

Toronto’s very own Queen of Vibes, Desarae Dee, is vastly known as a powerhouse pianist/keyboardist, multi-instrumentalist, producer, composer, content creator and music educator. Wearing these many hats, she has found a way to make waves in these artistic fields that all tie back to one another, especially as an instrumental fusion artist since 2014. Delivering yet another zealous and significant performance through the expressions of her most recent single, “Holiday Soul,” we get to hear Desarae Dee in a festive and profound light. Offering up rhythmic grooves that ooze with trademarks of the holidays, a warm embrace surrounds this record’s intentions as soon as it begins to play. Heightening our senses, we’re exposed to this instrumental offering that fuses together the likes of jazz, soul, and R&B. The poignant contribution provides listeners with tantalizing piano progressions that leave an impactful trail of holiday spirit accompanied by chiming elements, elusive to the touch. “Holiday Soul” softly ramps up with each moment that passes and incorporates yet another musical component while never straying from its elegance. The relaxed yet prominent percussion patterns set a tempo that effortlessly lures you down a path of feel-good sensations and encourages you to let loose and snap your fingers along the progression. We’re huge fans of the vocals that Desarae Dee is known for, but in “Holiday Soul,” the purely instrumental composition doesn’t disappoint at all. She immaculately lets the heart-rending keys, and resonant undertones do the talking for her – all while still establishing her celestial poise. Transport yourself this holiday season and take in all that Desarae Dee has to offer as you press play on this soulful listen. Welcome back to BuzzMusic, Desarae Dee, and congratulations on the release of “Holiday Soul.” We love hearing you in all your forms of artistry, and to take in a purely instrumental piece for the holidays has us feeling like our playlists are now complete. What inspired the essence heard in “Holiday Soul?" It’s great to be back again with another release that I’m super excited about. The holiday season is always full of busyness, excitement, and typical Christmas carols. I wanted to create an instrumental holiday tune that brings out the calmness, relaxed and chill nature of the holidays that we often overlook. Holiday Soul is a tune that brings in the feeling of cozying up by the fireplace with a cup of hot cocoa, enjoying the winter scene out the window, and just being present in the moment. I wanted to give my listeners and supporters that feeling this year. Being multifaceted, we know that many approaches are taken towards which avenue you choose to express yourself. What was the creative process like when bringing life to this song? Do you happen to have any favorite stories from the process? I wrote this song during the first wave of the pandemic, and it wasn’t until around September that I decided to pull it out of my arsenal, as I didn’t release any Christmas music in 2021. Two years ago, I was in a different headspace as it pertained to this song, so I knew I wanted to make a few changes and adjustments. I wanted to give it more of a Lofi Jazz/Neo-Soul vibe, and I knew exactly who to team up with to bring that vision to life. I called on my amazingly talented co-producer, Connor Chan (aka. King Chino), and I had the honor of working with Gabe Gallucci, a multi-talented audio engineer in the industry who has worked with Johnny Orlando, Shawn Mendes, and other billboard charting, artists. Lastly, I had super talented bass player Kemy Siala add his signature sound — anyone who knows me KNOWS I LOVE BASS, so to have him on another one of my records is always a treat. Working with these gentlemen was easy as they all “understood the assignment!” What happens to be your favorite part of the holidays? Are there any traditions that you’ve carried out since you were young? My favorite part of the holidays is having a Christmas music series on my socials, where I arrange different Christmas songs. I don’t think I’ve ever gone a year without doing something Christmas related on social media. This year, I’m revisiting my 2016 Christmas Album, “A Desarae Dee Music Christmas,” and re-arranging the songs I arranged in 2015. Because my sound has changed over the last six years, it was nice to change the songs up to where I am with my skill set as a musician today. All the videos are available on IG, YouTube, and TikTok. As far as traditions, my mom used to dress me up in some sort of Christmas outfit from the time I was born and to be quite honest. I still do it today! Having close to a million views in the span of 8 month on TikTok is rather remarkable! How have you found the process of building your presence on TikTok? Do you find 2022 brought you the encouragement to take this plunge as a content creator? Yes, TikTok! I celebrated over 1 million views at the end of November. It was a goal of mine as I’ve been doing well on the platform since March 2022, so achieving that goal is a dream come true. I’ve been creating content for the past eight years, so I’ve been doing this, but for me — my goal was to reach a wider audience with my uniqueness and to be able to do that on a platform that I never initially paid any attention to, amazes me, to say the least. What can we expect to see and hear from you in 2023? In 2023, I will focus a lot more on my career in performing and traveling, and of course, more music will come. I’ve been asked by many of my listeners and supporters for the last eight years for an album, so we will see if it happens Instagram Facebook

The Brooklyn-based outfit channels the excitement of meeting someone with a commanding presence to bring you a high-energy tune filled with infectiously catchy lyrics and guitar licks. Lily Mao and the Resonators approach music with the kind of energy that is ultimately infectious for listeners. Busking the streets of New York from sunrise and rocking the city’s vast DIY scene from sundown, Lily Mao and the Resonators have already established themselves as an act to watch in Brooklyn’s indie-rock community. After Scranton native Lily Mao moved to Brooklyn in 2018, the band was initially formed with three members: the thrilling Lily Mao herself, Nate Jasensky, and Gabby Borges. However, with the addition of Tui Jordan, who would take on bass duties, Lily Mao and the Resonators took their music to another level. No strangers to the big stage, they’ve rocked out venues like Rough Trade, Mercury Lounge, and Knitting Factory. With a vibrant stage presence and commitment to electrifying their audiences, Lily Mao and the Resonators have already hammered out a niche in Brooklyn’s competitive indie-rock community. They will hopefully be rocking out venues for the foreseeable future. “Tiger” is the crystallization of the energy and passion the band pours into their music. Meant to capture the feeling of meeting a stranger with a fierce tiger-like energy that draws you to them, Lily Mao notes that the inspiration behind this song came from an amazing date. Over energetic instrumentals, wicked guitar licks, and Mao’s exhilarating vocals, Mao and the Resonators take you on a thrilling three-minute journey that feels energizing. Every time Mao arrives at the chorus (“She’s a tiger! / She’s a tiger!), she does so with a gusto that feels liberating and giddy. Lily Mao and the Resonator’s “Tiger” is a raucous, liberating take on the energy you feel when you meet someone with intense energy and click. Tap in and listen to “Tiger,” available on Dec 16th. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Lily Mao. We think you knocked it out of the park with “Tiger” the animal references theme for the song just felt like it was flawlessly executed, you know? We have to ask, what was your origin story? “Tiger” is a song about meeting a stranger with fierce tiger-like energy that immediately draws you to them— that feeling of carnal excitement towards a commanding being. “Tiger” has an infectious guitar lick composed before its lyrics were penned. After an amazing date, I knew the theme of the lyrics would be a perfect match for the crunchy chorus riff. I envisioned the song to be lyrically animal-themed due to the nature of the chorus, drawing inspiration from power structures in nature and society: “sensitive boy,” “crocodile,” and “pigeon” are examples. The guitar solo was improvised by me while recording “Tiger” at Greenpoint Recording Collective, drawing inspiration from guitarists Robert Quine and Ivan Julian’s angular solo on “Blank Generation” by Richard Hell and the Voidoids. You’ve already carved out a niche in Brooklyn’s underground scene. What qualities do you think to attract listeners to you? The Resonators and I are super goofy, and our live performances are like a comedy show wrapped up in a rock show. We'll do an improv song at the end of our set. We set out to entertain everyone and have a lot of fun. We love the Brooklyn scene and are proud to be a part of it; many talented performers are out here. So you all are not strangers to the stage. Is there any particular performance you’ve had that stands out as your favorite? Playing at Dave's Lesbian Bar has been a huge gift for us as a band. We played with Jill Sobule last year at Dave's; that was memorable for me 'cuz Jill is a queer icon and an absolute rockstar. I also want to say our first performance of "Tiger" at Mercury Lounge was memorable for me. It's a fun song to play with a lot of energy, and it was awesome rocking it out for the first time on that stage. You have a new EP releasing soon. What does it mean to be able to bring this project to your fans, and what was your favorite part about bringing this project to life? It means so much to me to be able to put out these songs for y'all! Music is cathartic for me, and I hope these songs comfort others. Something to dance to, to scream-sing to, to cry to, there's a little bit of everything on this EP. My favorite part of bringing this project to life is recording in the studio; it's a privilege to record your music at a studio, let alone an amazing one like The Greenpoint Recording Collective. I loved going into the studio and getting creative, improvising solos, and meshing harmonies out. There's nothing like having your musical ideas come to life. What kind of message does Lily Mao want fans to take away from their music? If anyone wants to go out and make music, make music! Express yourself, have fun, and don't take yourself too seriously. Instagram Facebook

Hailing from Nashville, indie artist Gracie Moses shows listeners her vulnerable side while showcasing the best of indie folk in her new single "Night Terrors." Singer-songwriter Gracie Moses is an artist of multiple genres. Her sound and lyrics are significantly influenced by r&b, indie folk, and electropop. After all, Gracie has gathered vast cultural and musical inspiration since writing her first song at 11 years old. Now, she makes music to express intense human emotion that we can all relate to. "Night Terrors" discusses more of a frightening topic than supernatural creatures. Gracie Moses wrote this song to talk about the endless nights when your mind haunts you. This emotional and debilitating experience is something many of us encounter at one point or another, and Gracie lets us know we're not alone. She tells her experience masterfully with her exceptional musical skills. Getting into "Night Terrors," the piece opens with a powerful instrumental arrangement. The guitar, drums, and bass welcome you with high-energy and melodic sounds. You soon hear Gracie's impressive vocals, with tender yet powerful tones that create intense feelings in the listener. The lyrics pierce the heart with sadly relatable and aching themes, while the instrumentals are the sonic cherry on top. Gracie Moses converges top-quality production with fantastic musical talent. Her lyrics are an anthem for people who feel imprisoned by their own emotions. "Night Terrors" is a cry for freedom. The song feels more emotional every second, so don't be surprised if you end up with a tear or two. Free yourself from "Night Terrors" and heal your wounds with help from the chilling stylings of Gracie Moses. Find "Night Terrors" on all digital streaming platforms. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Gracie Moses, and congratulations on your latest release, "Night Terrors." What is the story behind “Night Terrors?” I've been having nightmares and intense dreams for the past few years, definitely due to some trauma in my own life, and I've wanted an outlet (other than therapy) for these dreams for a while. I didn't know how to process these dreams, and I didn't really stop having them until after I wrote this song. I tried journaling; I'm in therapy, but writing the song seemed to bring a cathartic healing that couldn't be acquired elsewhere. How would you describe the creative process of making “Night Terrors?” Going into writing this song, my writing process was quite different from others. I'd think embarking on a journey to write a song about intense and invasive dreams would be one that needed space and time, but it just came all at once. I sat down, not to write a song about my bad dreams necessarily, but to write, and it sort of all just word-vomited out onto a page. It all felt really natural. It reminded me of when I first began to write music at age 11 because back then, I didn't overthink as much, and I felt like with this song; I didn't either. How did writing “Night Terrors” help you fight the terrors? Just bringing them to light in a way they hadn't been before brought a lot of therapy to my soul. I wouldn't say writing the song necessarily helped me "fight" them, but it brought a lot of clarity. How do you expect “Night Terrors” to impact other artists and listeners? What's next for you? I'd love for anyone who has had intrusive thoughts of any kind, including but not limited to nightmares, to find some solace in this song. It's a song that screams, "GET OUT, I am STRONG," and we often need to send this message to our own minds. This song genre-wise is quite different for me, and playing it live has brought a lot of positive feedback, so my audience can expect to hear more of this sound from me shortly. Instagram Facebook

Owning the title, ‘City Girl with a Country Heart,’ the country-folk essence of Andrea Jean has us diving into her singer-songwriter styling head first. Based out of East Tennessee, the born and raised Madison, WI artist has pivoted into the music scene as both a performer and songwriter as she’s released her debut single, “Cowboy Man.” Fusing melodies you would find residing in the country, folk, and pop, what brings our attention to Andrea Jean are her velvety cascades that melt in your mind with effortless persuasion. “Cowboy Man” tells a picturesque story true to Andrea Jean as her elegant words accompany the vivid imagery she intends for you to feast on. As Andrea Jean’s luscious tones caress your ears with care and ease, you’re immediately hooked upon the first listen. Each word resonates with a poignant melody that flutters upon delicate instrumentation. The impactful percussion accompanies the delicate string performance in a way that hones Folk-Americana as you’re transported to a destination custom to Andrea Jean’s musical talents. For a debut release, “Cowboy Man” is mature and elevated with the soul and purpose brought forth. You’re promptly enchanted as Andrea Jean takes the spotlight and delivers an uplifting performance that you want to hear more from her. Exuding tonnes of who she truly is, you feel like you know Andrea Jean from the moment you click play. Back in the studio, as she delves into the works of her second single and forthcoming 2023 EP release, we can’t wait to hear what this budding starlet has in store for us. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Andrea Jean. We’re elated to have you here speaking with us on your debut release, “Cowboy Man.” We know how much work goes into something so precious as an inaugural release. Could you please share with us what you want “Cowboy Man” to say about you as an artist stepping onto the scene? Thanks so much for having me! I found myself trying to write songs that didn’t feel quite right until I fell in love. Cowboy Man is a direct reflection of my deep love for my partner. The song poured out of me. I want the song to inspire the magic of falling in love and show my romantic side as an artist. I always romanticize things around me, and this song does that too. As an artist, I want to sweep you off your feet with deep lyrics and analogies that connect our hearts to the country. With musical inspiration from your childhood favorites like The Chicks, Indigo Girls, and Michelle Branch, how do you feel their influence speaks to the music you create? I grew up listening to a lot of pop music in many forms. Some were influenced by country and indie, but what they all had in common was the voice of a strong woman. They sing from their souls and aren’t afraid to share themselves with the world. Their lyrics inspire and tell a story of who they are, which heavily influences my lyricism. In your own words, what does the heartfelt essence of “Cowboy Man” mean to you? What would you like your audience to take away from it? Cowboy Man means falling in love to me. I had never been in true love before, so meeting a man in the Wild West was a big surprise. The song directly reflects how we fell in love and tells that story. Living among the beautiful Badlands and performing in a musical show together every night heavily inspired the song. Falling in love was a leap of faith for me and a time of deep vulnerability, so in the end, I want audiences to feel that and then take away the warm and magical feelings it stirs up. I want them to feel like they’ve just found their cowboy man to light up their hearts. Fresh to the industry, what has been your favorite part of your musical journey thus far? My favorite part has been the insanely scary aspect of finally sharing a new song with the world. That moment before you sing the first note…waiting for the room to be swept away by the music you wrote. Though I've been performing and singing to large audiences for the past six years as a musical theater actress, singing personal songs like Cowboy Man can be intimidating. It shows the audience the inside of your heart. I’ve also enjoyed the long nights sitting in my bed with just my guitar and letting the lyrics flow. Experimentation that turns a chorus into a whole song is satisfying and exciting. With more music currently being worked on, what can you tell us about your future plans? I am excited to be working on and recording a new single and my EP for 2023! I am also playing new upcoming gigs in Tennessee and am excited to share my songs with more people. Also hoping to plan a short tour sometime in 2023. You will be hearing and seeing more of me in the future, that’s for sure! Instagram Facebook

Multi-talented producer Steel McNeal is an enigma of an evolving hip-hop and R&B scene. Steel McNeal is a uniquely wired musician who isn’t afraid to break the rules and push the boundaries of our perception with his deeply layered and well-crafted production. Born in and raised in Kansas City, MO, and now based in California, Steel McNeal makes music driven by a desire to motivate, inspire, and tell his story his way. With music being the vehicle he expresses himself, his drive, focus, and tenacity will lead him to become a relentless and unstoppable force in the independent circuit. “PARTYING – Tonight in Paris” is the latest record from Steel McNeal. He has a knack for merging contrasting tempos in his songs, and this one is no different. Playing into various musical hues that make up the beat composition, listeners can expect to be mentally transported to a scenic European destination that doesn’t disappoint. Between myriad sounds emitted in the instrumentation, you can immediately hear the textured layers trickle in with delicate and weighty components rounding the beat to completion. The intricate drum patterns have you grooving to each kick drum and hi-hat; it truly carves out space for the exclusive vocal delivery heard spitting quickly formed bars performed with an unmatched boastfulness. Hearing the passion that goes into a record of this caliber means that no stone is unturned. When it comes to the conviction in which the lyrics are performed, you feel the energy ooze through the speakers, just as you hear the witty nature portrayed in the lyricism. Combining these elements with a beat rich in hip-hop yet influenced by other genres like jazz, there’s no doubt it makes an impression. “PARTYING – Tonight in Paris” is one of those songs with a repeat factor, and we’re sure you’ll quickly find out for yourself. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Steel McNeal! It’s great to have you here chatting about your latest single, “PARTYING – Tonight in Paris.” This song accurately conveys such robust energy. What was the inspiration in mind when you were creating it? When I created Partying Tonight In Paris, I laid the track with strings and flutes and an 808 kick, then basically, the track created a life of its own. When I hear the music, I envision what it represents. The more I listen to the track, the more it sounded like being in Paris. So, I worked with the artist and came up with a theme where the whole crew decided to take the party overseas to Paris. With all the musical layers and power heard in the vocals, could you please take us into the meaning and what you hope your audience can take away from it? When I added the opera vocal track, I aimed for a sexy but mysterious sound that would mix well with the string track. Where did you get the motivation to produce beats that carry such great influence from other genres outside of hip-hop and R&B? Do you have particular producers that you look up to? My drive is all over the place; I love good music from all genres. From hip-hop to orchestra music, it is all about understanding what the artist is trying to express in their music. I'm an artist who sees the great importance of trying to be as original as possible; I have no joy in sounding like so one else. I try to produce what I feel in my soul at the time. Sometimes that can be about love, hard life, disappointment, rebellion, or some conscious theme I want to express to the world. I mostly like the old school producer like Dr. Dre and a few new producers like Murda Beats or 808Melo. Let’s dive into your mission statement as a creative. Do you have one, or at least a main goal, that you aim to create? The main goal of my music is to take it back to the old-school days of having fun and chilling without violence. I feel music is a very persuasive tool that can influence some people sometimes for the worst, so I want to put out good music that everyone can vibe to without all the aggressiveness. PUT DOWN THE GUNS, MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS. Your life is worth so much more. ML to all. Your highly anticipated single, “12 Midnight,” is the next song to be released. What can your audience expect to hear from this record? 12 Midnight is a song that was already released, but it is a song about a high school friend of mine who was a girl I knew in high school. We were the best of friends and did everything together. Heading into our senior year of school, she started to mature into a beautiful woman. Her tomboy look and ways started to fall off, and the guys started to take notice. I started to feel like I was losing her, so I took it to the next level to be in a real relationship with her. In a nutshell, before Midnight, she was my friend, then after Midnight with her, she became something much more.

Hailing from Montreal's vibrant music scene, dream-alt two-piece Simply Brick blesses our speakers with a chilling and ethereal new ballad entitled "TY&A." Simply Brick was formed in June 2020 in the Montreal music scene, comprising Ariel Bouchard on guitar and Corrina Fisches on bass and vocals. They create music based on their admiration for slow, dreamy sounds and punchy alternative rock vibes. Their self-proclaimed sound of "dream-alt" couldn't be more accurate. The duo recently released they're dreamy new single entitled "TY&A." With deeply passionate yet introspective lyricism alongside the sweetest alternative arrangements we could ask for, Simply Brick delivers pure love and devotion effortlessly. Their gentle instrumentation, paired with their honest and highly relatable lyricism, is a true treat for the ears. Diving into "TY&A," the experience opens with sweet bass licks that leap into a harmonious and dreamy alternative soundscape soaked in reverb guitars and lush percussion. Corrina's gentle vocals bless us with loving lyrics that pay tribute to someone's beauty, love, and grace while wishing they would vocalize their devotion and care. All while Corrina serenades us with her velvety vocals, Ariel maintains the ethereal energy with her soothing electric guitar melodies that send us into a daydream. This is one of the most touching alternative ballads we've heard this year, and Simply Brick has no problem showing us their vulnerable side while naturally inviting listeners to relate. It's a cathartic experience bound to move mountains in any listener. Simply Brick's new single, "TY&A," is the epitome of lush ballads that will stand the test of time. Find the captivating new single on all digital streaming platforms. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Simply Brick. We're head over heels for the ethereal and passionate experience in your recent single, "TY&A." What inspired your duo to create this tender ballad? One night, inspiration came upon Ariel, who wrote this composition entirely in just a few hours. She remembers vividly feeling a surge of inspiration, feeling the purest form of the emotion of unconditional love coming from an energetic depth that surpasses the physical dimension at the deepness of the soul. This energy had to be transmuted into a canvas of musical sound waves and lyrics. She says it is the most personal song she has ever written and the most profound creative process she’s ever experienced, reaching an almost spiritual height. What was your duo's creative process like in the studio creating and recording "TY&A?" How did you bring the song to life? Once Ariel had written the full composition, she came to Corrina with an idea for the chorus. She wanted them to sing together simultaneously, going in different harmonic directions. This song has many vocal layers, with Corrina underlining certain words and harmonizing, and in terms of the chorus, it is the first song Ariel sings. Corrina recorded the entire bass solo on her own at home. Ariel wanted it to sound dreamy and ethereal, which Matt Nozetz of Avebury Studios brought out with his excellent production, recording, and mixing skills. He was also the guest drummer on the song and helped us bring its soft dreamy ballad style to the utmost beauty by helping Ariel reach her auric vision with the guitar sound she had in mind. Two different tracks, one in each channel, create a spacious yet sparkly landscape. How does "TY&A" contrast your previous singles? What makes this song stand out in your discography? What makes TY&A different from our other songs because it is our first ballad and has the most vocal layers we have ever done. Corrina spent hours in the studio harmonizing and underlining certain words; if you listen carefully, you can hear all the different layers that Corrina sings separately. In addition, it is the first song Ariel sings for the first time, which can be heard in the chorus. Not only does the song have the most vocal layers, but it also has the most guitar layers and the sound of an old-fashioned postcard piano and hidden synth, which can be heard if you listen very carefully. It is like a hidden gem! What impact did you want to leave on listeners after hearing "TY&A?" What thoughts or emotions did you want to evoke? The impact we would like this song to have on our listeners is to feel the purest form of love they can integrate into their lives towards someone they love- not only romantically, but towards anyone, whether it be friends or family as well. This song signifies love to the beyond - with a slight emotion of melancholic longing, which depicts separation, whether through growing apart over time, a breakup, or ultimately an end we will all reach, such as death. As Ariel’s favorite poet, Khalil Gibran, wrote, “ Love knows not its depth until the hour of separation.” In other words, the melancholic emotion in this song represents how temporary, transient moments we will have with people we love, no matter what form of love, and thus, the uplifting emotions in the song try to capture the endless static love we have for someone, which will exist forevermore and no law in the universe can cease to end a well of love we felt for someone in this lifetime. What was the most rewarding part about creating such a moving ballad like "TY&A?" What did your duo take away from the experience? The most rewarding part of creating this song would be that it nourished our creativity. Ariel’s writing was so impactful that her creativity reached a spiritual experience. As for Corrina, all the vocal layers she added to the song expanded her vocal landscape to new heights. Furthermore, all the separate textures we added to this song of our instruments and vocals showed us how we can bring the colors of our sound to a most precise saturation - thus really painting a musical canvas with a multitude of hidden layers that each adds to the emotional textures of the song. Facebook Instagram

Having stepped away from the game for a year, Only Okay picked up right where he left off with his Four Joints EP. Whether exultantly announcing his return on "Personal" or switching up his flow on the closing "Four Joints," Only Okay's versatility and endless energy ensure a little something for everyone. At its essence, Detroit's Only Okay makes music for the people. The creative brainchild of rapper and songwriter Griffin Shiminski, Only Okay has constantly held himself to a simple yet powerful standard; his music must say something. Even though Only Okay readily admits that his art may not always be super deep, at the end of the day, he stays true to his vision and makes music that his fans can always take something away from. This creates an underlying theme that listeners will quickly see underlines all of his music; there's always a story to be told or a perspective to express. When it comes to "Four Joints's" EP theme, Ok's vision was simple; set a base for himself and his audience and remind us of what he's capable of. Only Okay productions are set apart by his constant devotion to forging a connection with fans and new listeners through his expression of perspective and social commentary. So it is no surprise that, at its core, the titular "Four Joints" was inspired by Ok's desire to speak out on what he identifies as injustice. Recognizing that marijuana is now widely legal and available in the States, Only Okays "Four Joints" was inspired by the fact that despite shifting views and money legally made through marijuana, many remain unfairly incarcerated for possession and other minor causes. Lines like "The four joints I smoked in a day is a life in prison" or "I don't see how their weed is any different from mine" illustrate Ok's keen self-awareness and willingness to call out the double standard. Although he calls himself Only Ok, it's clear that the music is lightyears better than his humble name might suggest. Although he may have stepped away for a while, it's clear that Only Okay's lyrical and musical abilities are as strong as ever. Light one up and enjoy the "Four Joints" EP, now available for streaming. Welcome back to BuzzMusic, Only Okay. We enjoyed the EP, and it’s cool that a big part of who you are as an artist is paying attention to what’s happening in our society and commenting on it. You’ve been gone for a while! How does it feel to be back, and what inspired you to pick up where you left off? I feel excited and relieved to be back, but mostly I feel prepared. I haven't put out a song since around Halloween in 2021, but I haven't stopped creating since December of last year; I feel the time is right for everyone to hear what I have been up to. I look forward to showing how I have elevated where I was, musically and personally, when I left off. You mentioned that one of your major inspirations is Jay-Z, specifically because of his lyricism and ability to educate through his music. How important was his music to your formation as an artist? The first Jay-Z song I ever heard when I was younger was 99 Problems, and that song is a perfect example of something catchy but with a deeper meaning if you listen to the lyrics. He doesn't write lyrics down, everything is on the spot, and that has taught me, as an artist, you always have to be ready and able to do your thing at a high level at any given time- his confidence and longevity in the rap game are both things I look up to. My music has a heavier East coast influence on beat selection, and I attribute that to artists like Jay-Z. What was your favorite song from “Four Joints,” and what was its inspiration? My favorite song on "Four Joints" is the title track, Four Joints. I came up with the concept for the song about a year and a half ago- the first half of the song is an upbeat and fun vibe, while the second half is the reality of it all. I smoke every day, but I felt like I couldn't consciously put out a smoking song or a song about weed without showing where I stand with a serious song about it first. I am hoping that our country can re-evaluate and release non-violent drug offenders when it comes to marijuana, and I wanted to get that message out there. A huge part of who you are as an artist is making music your listeners can resonate with or take something away from. What did you want fans to take away from your “Four Joints” EP? I want people to know that this EP showcases my abilities now and what I can do musically and that I am ready to take this thing seriously. You can count on me to use their voice when it comes to speaking up, and I am not afraid to touch on big topics or issues. I also hope people can hear that I let myself have fun with my music; that is why I started. I say it a couple of times in a few songs on the project, but the Four Joints EP is just the announcement. We’re curious, what's next for Only Okay? Are there any issues out there right now that you think will inspire you to make new music? I have a 24-song project dropping on November 29th, which is most of what I have been working on this past year. I have been working six days a week and going to Pearl Sound Studios on the 7th day, and I am so excited for everyone to hear all of the hard work that went into making this album. I consider these songs the 24 most important things I've learned so far in my life, and they are explained by touching on social, political, and personal issues. I want to make mental healthcare services more quickly and widely accessible- the lack thereof inspires me to start doing something about it by talking about my own experiences. Instagram Facebook

17-year-old vocal sensation Vicky Rai hails from Toronto, Canada, as an up-and-coming star who has been singing live at various Portuguese music events since the age of nine. Teaming up with Grammy-nominated producer Michael Hanson - the musical sparks between them flew as Vicky Rai continued to showcase her sweetheart nature through everything she does. Treating her audience to a taste of the holiday season done the Vicky Rai way, her most recent single, “Born on Christmas Day,” is sure to get all listeners in the Christmas spirit. Commencing with chimes and delicate wisps that cast you into a euphoric holiday destination, the elusive factor that begins pulsing through your speakers has enchanted written all over it. Accompanying Vicky Rai's grace, the instrumentation intensifies to match the integrity with which Vicky Rai showcases her poignant timbres. Effortlessly taking a hold of you, her extensive vocal range wraps around your ears in a warm embrace. With a vast amount of passion poured into this record, you can hear the glimmers of significance spill throughout. Inspired by Vicky Rai’s father, who gave her the idea to write a song in time for Christmas, the two sat down at the piano and let the concepts flow. The brilliant harmonies that Vicky Rai bears usher out heartfelt lyrics, which are memories she cherishes deeply. Pulling us into such a personal place, all while openly expressing herself, is what musical dreams are made of. Encouraging her audience to gather around one another and bask in the presence of their family and friends, “Born on Christmas Day” sprinkles the infectious energy of Vicky Rai into the company of her audience. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Vicky Rai! Congratulations on the release of your latest single, “Born on Christmas Day.” We love the passion that you drizzle into this record so naturally. How did it feel to create a song that is so heartfelt and filled with memories? This song felt like no other. I was feeling in the Christmas spirit, thinking of all the good times with family and friends, laughing and listening to Christmas music, and remembering how that felt. While writing, it reminded me of how things were before the pandemic, not being able "Born On Christmas Day." How did you find the experience of writing a song specifically tailored to the holidays? It was a great experience. My songs are mostly about love, caring, and life experiences, and when I had the melody in my head, it just came out that way. As I started creating the melody the lyrics came right after, and with the help of my father, we came up with the hook of the song, which was 'someone was born on Christmas day that year it felt like it was the perfect timing for a new Christmas song. Did you find that you approached it differently from other songs you’ve written? The approach was the same. I always came up with the melody first. Then the lyrics came after I have some chords laid down on my piano. We love that you and your father came up with these ideas together. Could you please share a glimpse into what the initial creative process looked like when you sat at the piano? Well, it was me at the piano playing with some chords figuring out the tune, and I asked my dad to come and listen in while I played the first chord, my Dad came up with the first melody, and from there, the ideas just came flowing into my head. You have such a wide vocal range that truly impacts your listeners. What musical influences do you look up to that may have helped you find the style you possess today? I've looked up to Ariana Grande, Shawn Mendes, and Justin Bieber and learned so much from their style of music, along with Tate Mcrae and Olivia Rodrigo, that I wanted my style to be similar to theirs but unique to my sound. What is the meaning of Christmas to you? What words would you like to share with your listeners for the holidays? Christmas means family, love, helping the less fortunate, and having fun with the people you love. I would like to share with my listeners that no matter near or far, I hope my music has and will inspire you to be kind and to love one another, not just around the holidays but every day of your life. I have learned not to take life for granted and to be the best human being I can be for myself and others. Instagram Twitter

A staple in the industry where he owns the genre ‘wave R&B,’ SUMWHR exudes an edgy approach that continues to push the envelope. Having grown up in Watts, a city where you could easily be lost in the system, SUMWHR cultured himself in other ways to express himself from a young age. With independence being a major key to his youth, his talents as a melodic songwriter, producer, engineer, and sound architect continue to pave a bright and impactful path for emerging artists. Immediately drowning you in textured melodies that have you drowning in a pool of SUMWHR’s unique inflection, “ONA MISSION” is the latest installment in his musical journey. The single carries forth a fresh essence that radiates dark undertones in an elevating song that outlines the mission he continues to endure as an individual making his way through life. With independence being the topic of discussion, it’s apparent that his faith is unmatched. You can hear it as he passionately displays a vocalization that etches itself into your mind without trying too hard. Laying on top of enticing hi-hats that trickle through the speakers, we’re exposed to instrumentation that doesn’t fit in the typical box of R&B. It’s rather refreshing as we take in the inimitable composition as a whole and as we separate the melody from SUMWHR’s lyrical candy. His tonal distinction leaves you feeling satisfied yet at the same time wanting more from the budding artist. That alone has this song resonating with the instant replay factor in a major way. Effortless in the way he portrays his unapologetic personality, SUMWHR continues to show that he’s going places. Zone in with “ONA MISSION” so you can bask in the radiance he seamlessly emits in this captivating track. Welcome to BuzzMusic, SUMWHR, and congratulations on releasing your latest single, “ONA MISSION.” You effortlessly portray your tenacity, which is truly quite inspiring. What moment or story encouraged you to pen heartfelt lyrics as such? I wasn’t the best version of myself in the past, but I also knew I couldn’t let someone come into my temple and take advantage. I was with someone who I thought cared about me through and through, but finding out she didn’t is the worse feeling. The past is always a place I reflect on daily. Relationships are rollercoasters we board even when it could have the highest of highs and lowest of lows, you know. Pain is embedded in our own experiences. When creating a record like “ONA MISSION,” how do you determine that it fits into your unique style of wave R&B? Do you find that you’d rather create freely or create to fit the genre you excel in? Freely, I understand the importance of staying true but also, for me, it’s about eliminating the restrictions. I’m into starting with a blank canvas and seeing where my creativity takes me; I mean, sure, I have a distinctive sound that happens naturally during the creation process. We understand that for artists to develop musical inspiration, life inspiration plays a big role in the content delivered. What non-musical aspirations do you have that continue to feed into who you are? Honestly, the thing that drives me the most is my kids. They keep me level-headed and living in the moment. They are the reason I put so much into my music industry journey. I truly hope I make them proud. As someone who focuses on independence, what words of encouragement do you have for your audience looking to you for motivation? I would say to keep dreaming and never give up, especially when the road gets tough. There will be people who don’t believe in or support your movement, which is fine. We should never look to people for validation; we should only focus on self-evaluation, drive, and, most importantly, consistency. What can we expect to see and hear next from you? Next for me will be a lot of new song releases, so stay tuned, and we will connect again. Instagram Twitter