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Up-and-coming singer-songwriter and synth-pop recording artist GLITTERMIND asks some critical questions in her dazzling and emotional new single, "Never Mine." GLITTERMIND paints universal themes with retro-inspired technicolor brushes. She's a cross-genre songwriter traversing sounds like pop, adult contemporary, and folk while exploring personal themes of love, trust, and time. Having written for a handful of artists, GLITTERMIND decided to go solo in 2020 with shimmery, honest, and heartfelt pop songs worthy of the dancefloor. She just released her third studio single, "Never Mine," an anthemic dark pop track with driving synths and emotional lyrics about past love and relationships that still linger in her mind. Expanding on the heartfelt new single, "Never Mine," the experience begins with distant synths and ghostly vocals making their way into the foreground. As GLITTERMIND jumps into her shimmery verse, she dives deep into personal lyrics of looking for distractions knowing damn well this person will be on her mind for longer than she'd hoped. It's a slow-burn single with chilling pop sonics that usher in profound feelings of late-night heartbreak and trying to pick up the pieces. Although GLITTERMIND's soothing vocals convey personal messages of love and loss, the entire listening experience feels refreshing and rejuvenating. With each lyric, you can hear the weight escaping from GLITTERMIND's shoulders as she expresses her deepest thoughts, dreams, and desires in the chilling pop production. It doesn't get much better than the authentic, relatable, and palpable emotion in GLITTERMIND's personal new single, "Never Mine." Find the heartfelt new track on all digital streaming platforms. Welcome to BuzzMusic, GLITTERMIND. We love the relatable and genuine listening experience you provided in your recent single, "Never Mine." What inspired such a personal and moving song like this? Hi! Thanks so much for having me! I am so glad that it’s so relatable. “Never Mine” is inspired by knowing that the person you like isn't right for you. The battle between the head and the heart is supremely real. I’m equally emotional and cerebral, so that battle has happened to me more than once. I am so glad that this feeling and state of mind are resonating! What was your songwriting process like for "Never Mine"? Did writing this song help you cope with and understand the situation better? The song actually took quite a bit of time to write. I had the first verse and chorus very quickly; the situation was fresh. But it wasn’t until I met someone else that I was able to get that second verse and the bridge in 1 night! It definitely helped me work through my feelings, and I hope it helps others as well. What was your goal for the listener's experience with "Never Mine"? What did you want them to feel or think over? I wanted the listener to know they’re not alone. We often hear about unrequited love, but it’s never quite phrased in this way. “Thinking about all the ways you were never mine” could mean so many different things to different people. I also ask the question, “why do I care sometimes?” Even when we know better or can deduce that the situation isn’t quite right, emotions get in the way. No one ever asks: why these emotions come in waves. Why do they still come over us even when we think we're over it? How do songs like "Never Mine" help new listeners get to know you, your sound, and your style better? Would you say this song is a solid representation of the music you aim to create? I’m a very intellectually curious person by nature; I tend to analyze and be extremely introspective. This song puts those qualities on full display while still telling a story. The sparkly and ethereal nature of the music is my sound. I'm creating a sonic universe full of retro synths, ambient sounds, and dreamy strings. What's next for you? I have more music coming and am planning to release a larger project next year! So much of my music is danceable while still touching on these universal themes and experiences, and I’m excited to keep sharing more and more of my story! I am excited to finally be introducing myself to listeners and can't wait to continue connecting. Instagram

Multi-faceted artist Scott Howard is about to release his e-book “A LightWorker's Journey” where he talks about complex changes in life and the role of music in it. Scott Howard is a solid artist with skills beyond his exceptional songwriting and singing abilities. He is also a director, producer, and author. Scott has been convinced since he was an infant of the power of music to connect people with their emotions. But also, music has specific physical and mental effects through a selection of sounds and frequencies. By using a frequency of 432 Hz in his music, Scott Howard created a new genre in which he tries to give us a more intimate relationship with our spiritual selves. Not by coincidence, ancient civilizations used this frequency to make music. In “A LightWorker's Journey,” Scott Howard is using his writing as a catharsis for the indescribable pain of losing his son Maxx and a way to help people confront hard times through the connection of our spirits with music. Further, he talks about how music can reveal that reality is more expansive than we are used to thinking. If you want to discover more about it, keep an eye on “A LightWorker's Journey.” Instagram Facebook

"Good 4 U" is one of Olivia Rodrigo’s most influential and popular songs. In her take, Karine Hannah gives it a dose of emotion, inspiring vocals, and her own nostalgic touch. Karine Hannah was born and raised in Canada, and at the age of sixteen, Celine Dion was impressed by her performance on a local television program. What happened next is beyond unusual. The well-known diva asked Karine to sing at her wedding! Karine acknowledges that legendary singers like Gladys Knight, Patti LaBelle, and Jennifer Holiday influenced her vocal style. Other performers from France and Europe that she first heard on the radio as a child have also been her inspiration. She has something wholly unique and compelling as a result. This version of "Good 4 U" introduces the audience to a fantastic fresh twist on Olivia Rodrigo's song. Karine Hannah changed the melody to slower, offering the listeners a more serene song, undoubtedly charged with emotion. The song becomes slightly melancholic due to Karine's vocal style and the musical accompaniment. These components better support the song's mood as interpreted by Karine. She can connect with the audience with her distinctive voice. Karine can also provide special intensity through the dynamics of her voice, and the more subdued accompaniment lets her voice take center stage. Whether the music is an original or a cover, Karine wants the audience to experience something deeply emotional. You will experience a completely different mood from this song. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Karine Hannah, and congratulations on your latest release, "Good 4 U." Can you describe turning a highly recognized pop song into an emotionally charged piece? Sometimes the process is simple and happens quickly; all the pieces fall into place right away from my mind to my soul and out my mouth. Other times I have to record it and listen back until the right interpretation comes to life, and when it does, it's magical. What inspired you to transform Rodrigo's "Good 4 U" into this amazing piece? I wanted to tap into not only music from the 70s and 80s, but I love current music and sought that this song was so catchy that it would be a perfect one to re-interpret, and lyrically it was something I could relate to at the time. Where do you draw your inspiration to create such incredible musical pieces? A big part of my inspiration comes from my mother, who unexpectedly passed away at a young age several years ago. She was my biggest fan, and I sang cover tunes for her. She loved my original music, but she always wanted to hear songs that she already knew the most. When I'm recording, I think of her and how she would eat this up and love it all. What message would you like people to take away from "Good 4 U?" The most important message is that you can be angry and filled with heartbreak, but you'll get through it. What's next for you? I have many more reimagined covers coming from different categories, and I am starting to perform live and tour with the "inspired" reimagine covers project. Think of this whole inspired project like the new age of the "Time Life" box set!! Look out for tour dates and more music from this incredible collection. Instagram Facebook

Hailing from Nashville, the alternative rock artist Lindsey releases her new single “Save Me,” where she puts her musical genius and vulnerability as a person. Lindsey believes that music has the power to bring people together by showing them how vulnerable to topics we all share and could confront through art. Thus, her lyrics are honest and relatable. Her sensibility enhances her songwriting through poetry and the influence of artists like Evanescence, The Cranberries, and Paramore. “Save Me” is the result of Lindsey trying to make her way through emotional and material dark times using music as her sword and shield. “Save Me” talks about overcoming personal challenges and the resilience to build a new life from the ashes of what disappeared. But it is not always possible to do it alone; you sometimes need to ask for a friendly hand. When “Save Me” starts, the drums and a distorted guitar seconds Lindsey’s powerful voice as it makes silence after every chord to highlight Lindsey’s words. Then the guitar continuously pulses as the drums mark the rhythm with a clapping sound that adds weight to the song's dark ambiance. Simultaneously, Lindsey’s vocals sound as emotional as energizing. You need to watch the video and drink from the symbolism of Lindsey burning the physical place where the shadows of the dark times reside. People have hurt them, made her change as she gives “Save Me” space for silence to emerge from it with a burst of energy that takes the hype to the top, letting out the pain and musical mastery. “Save Me” is climatic and powerful. Hit the play button and sing (or scream) along to discharge your heavy heart. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Lindsey. How has writing “Save Me” helped you to overcome your personal challenges? Hey! Thank you for having me. Writing “Save Me” helped me to put into words the rescue I needed in my life. I am no longer someone who gives up easily or accepts defeat. I am a fighter and someone who has overcome my struggles because I have come to know who I am in Christ. How did writing “Save Me” help you grow as an artist? Creating “Save Me” helped me figure out the kind of artist I want to be, not just musically but lyrically. I want to use my platform to speak about hard topics and invite hope into a realm where hope may feel impossible. What would you say is the most challenging part of asking for help? The hardest part of asking for help was simply saying those three words, “I need help”. Admitting that I couldn’t do this alone, but also afraid of what change looked like. Do you think music could encourage people to ask for help during hard emotional times? Absolutely. I believe music is a powerful gift that can help start conversations that are necessary to have. Vulnerability gives way to the reliability, and we all just want to be seen and heard at the end of the day. Vulnerability in music is important. Instagram Facebook

Looking for an unforgettable act with hooks you can't seem to shake? Versatile pop artist and singer-songwriter Pigtails is ready to lock you in for the ride in her latest single and accompanying music video for "In My Head." Pigtails represent many things. On the one hand, they're often associated with youth, energy, and a child-like spirit. On the other hand, pigtails take patience and knowledge of how to twist and turn them perfectly. Artist Pigtails has the youthfulness and energy of a child and the wisdom of an adult, always ready to share her personal and relatable experiences with listeners. In her recent single, "In My Head," Pigtails grabs the listener's attention with unforgettable hooks that draw from pop-punk, radio hits, snotty 80s rock glam, soundtrack music, and the chiptune sounds of vintage arcade games. However, it's the song's music video that truly gives a glimpse of what's going on in Pigtails' mind. Directed by Nuno Bettencourt, the "In My Head" clip kicks off with Pigtails hitting the start button on a life-like arcade game. As she awakes in a tunnel-like room in front of a machine with levers and buttons, we can already tell that we've just taken a front-row seat at the main operator in Pigtails' brain. Not only is the song wildly fun with upbeat pop sonics and Pigtails' charismatic vocals, but the visual also looks at the distractions, therapies, vices, and all that Pigtails associates herself with. It all feels like a playful arcade game where Pigtails is completely controlled, whipping her hair and making it clear that she means business. You thought you knew Pigtails? Think again. See a new side of the dynamic pop artist's recent music video for "In My Head," now available on YouTube. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Pigtails. We love the energy and captivating nature of your recent single, "In My Head." What inspired you to create this honest yet upbeat track? Hi! Thank u so much. I wanted to create something that 8-year-old me would be excited about, find a way to process my feelings, and also create an earworm that kinda felt like my own brain. I came up with the hook one night in L. A and have this crazy voice memo of me singing it down into my phone, half asleep. What was your experience working with director Nuno Bettencourt for the "In My Head" music video? What was that collaboration like? I've always really loved music videos, and getting to create the concept with my producer Boyd Wilson was exciting. Working with Nuno as Director was so great. He also totally understood my vision of wanting to film the video in a WW2 bunker in the middle of lockdown, ha! What inspired the main scene in your music video for "In My Head?" Was this room meant to represent the little Pigtails in your mind, pulling all the levers and calling the shots? I like this question. The bunker is like a metaphor for my brain; I feel stuck in this wacky dystopian world. The levers feel almost as if they're launching my brain, you know, calling the shots, and I'm trying so hard to make sense of it all. I'm a pretty visual person, and I wanted to inject as much of myself into this video. I'm proud of it. How did you want your viewers to interpret the music video for "In My Head?" What did you want the visuals to make them think or feel? I hope this video makes people feel less isolated. For people to know that every single human struggles with something and that living inside your own head can be a mind f***, and sometimes there's nothing else to do but jam around in your kitchen feeling weird and happy all at the same time. What's next for you? I want to tour Europe! I have a finished pop album and a new single that's ready to go, and I'm honestly so excited to release more music onto the planet. Instagram Facebook

Legendary singer-songwriter and musician Jim Peterik knows his way around love songs. He recently paired up with the heartfelt stylings of Toby Hitchcock to bring the theme of passion to life in their latest single and lyric video for "All That's Mine To Give." For someone who's written wildly romantic songs for names like Survivor, Cheap Trick, .38, REO, and many more, it's pretty on-brand for Jim Peterik to bless our ears with another tender ballad once again. With carefully crafted lyrics and melodies, Jim Peterik continues blazing the trail for other creative romantics to follow. He recently shared the tale of unbridled passion and connecting with a life-long soulmate in his latest single alongside Toby Hitchcock entitled "All That's Mine To Give." While Hitchcock tackles the lead vocal, Peterik and Mark Scherer serenade us in the background alongside their chilling adult contemporary/folk instrumentals. It doesn't get much more romantic than the lyric video for "All That's Mine To Give." With text in melting cursive, the harmonious song plays in the background while viewers are invited to watch several different scenes of various couples enjoying quality time together. Although these couples are quite different, they all share the same feeling of being completely and utterly devoted to their soulmate. From scenes of engagements and ultrasounds to walks on the beach as old folks, Jim Peterik and Toby Hitchcock perfectly display the profound emotions and genuine feelings that come with finding the person you're meant to be with. Let Jim Peterik and Toby Hitchcock show you what true love looks like in their latest single and accompanying lyric video for "All That's Mine To Give." Find the single on all digital streaming platforms and the lyric video on YouTube. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Jim Peterik. We adored every second of your heartfelt and genuine new single with Toby Hitchcock, "All That's Mine To Give." What inspired you to create such a sincere and thoughtful ballad like this? Good question, BuzzMusic. I’ve been happily married to my high school sweetheart Karen since 1972. Sure there have been a few rough patches, but we knew what we had was real. Now our son Colin is 33. He is a successful singer-songwriter, studio owner, and loving husband and father to Maisy, five years of age, and Colby, who is 3. This song is my homage not only to our marriage but sharing the hope that you can enjoy the same kind of longevity. I set out to write the perfect song to share with that special someone in your life. What was your collaboration like with Toby Hitchcock and Mark Scherer for "All That's Mine To Give"? Was this your first time working with these artists? Toby Hitchcock and I are about to complete our 8th worldwide release for our band Pride of Lions on the Frontiers label out of Italy. Marc Scherer is also an incredible vocalist. I wrote and produced his 2016 Frontiers release Risk Everything Regarding the "All That's Mine To Give" lyric video, who helped bring that to life? Why did you want to capture various scenes of couples enjoying quality time together? The lyric video was created by Cathy Richardson, lead vocalist of Jefferson Starship and a Grammy-nominated videographer. She captured the emotion of the song to a tee. How did you want to make viewers feel when watching the lyric video for "All That's Mine To Give"? What emotions or feelings did you want to evoke? I’m hoping no matter what the special occasion, this is the type of piece that brings out intimate feelings of your loved one, whether it’s a wedding, birthday, baptism, or any special occasion. What's next for you? I never stop looking for things in life that move me. Writing a song is 10 percent inspiration and 90 percent perspiration. It takes both to create a truly meaningful song. Facebook Twitter

A native of Rogers Park, the multi-genre artist Gold has released his most recent single, “Not Myself.” Gold is a musician who is always moving between multiple genres, taking sounds from Hip-hop, R&B, and EDM. Its craft is a fusion of these genres. That way, he has created a world of music in which his listeners can immerse and find a little of themselves in it. Thus, listening to Gold’s music is a touching and soulful experience. “Not Myself” is no exception to the beauty of Gold's work, the lyrics of this Hip-hop-leaning song are a cry for a company that won’t judge you, an acceptance of not being okay by ourselves all the time. It would be best if you had someone to stay with when you are not yourself. The Techno sounds help to accent the emotional aspect Gold is showing here. When playing “Not Myself,” you encounter an ethereal ambiance with digital notes and a sweet distant melody. It soon turns into a hi-hats-driven track with a gentle but excellent bass that highlights Gold's vocals. His voice has a contagious effect that makes you want to sing along with him. The reverberant effect on Gold’s voice gives weight to the lyrics, so you can relate to his words and feel the emotions he seeks to transmit. Although we could classify “Not Myself” as Hip-hop, it is rather experimental and shows Gold’s unique mark, and we hope to hear more about it in the future. Not feeling like yourself lately? Music will never leave you alone. Hit the play button on “Not Myself.” Welcome to BuzzMusic Gold, and congratulations on your latest release, "Not Myself." What was the experience that took you to make “Not Myself?” I wanted to dive deeper into myself and unlock a different part of my mind. I wanted to create something different than my usual style of music, so I reflected on times I felt I was not myself. The vulnerability throughout my music has nothing on the transparency of what I’m giving you with my next project. This single is just an introduction to the ride I’m going to take my audience on. How did making “Not Myself” help you grow as an artist? “Not Myself” allows me to be unapologetically me. It allows me to embrace every aspect of myself and strengthens my authenticity even more. How do you handle mixing genres while keeping the ambiance of “Not Myself?” Adaptability and years of experimenting. If I can pull off a sound that’s different from my norm, then I can pull off anything. I listened to much different musics growing up that influenced me to be the artist I am today. So when I fuse genres, I express all the different sides of myself. I identify common ground between the two genres, and Gold fills in the missing piece in the middle. Who do you wish to stick around when you are not yourself? My family, my woman, my fans, and my team. I love to be surrounded by genuine love and productivity when I'm not myself. Being productive gives me something to look forward to. It motivates and inspires me to keep going. What's next for you? I’m currently working on my album “Venus In Taurus”. I’m confident that this project will get the recognition that it deserves. I’m stepping on everything, and I’m making them stand if you doubt me. During the release of the album, I will be dropping visuals and building my fan base. I will launch my merch and solidify my “Trust The Dream” business. An Entertainment and multimedia company specializing in giving creatives greater visibility and a platform to turn their dreams into a career. Instagram

From Toronto, Ontario, artist Katie Dauson shows her incredible storytelling and songwriting skills in her new single “Torched.” Katie Dauson is a musician and songwriter who dreamed of making music since she was an infant, but it wasn’t until recently that she decided to take the dream and make it real on the stage. After developing her skills as a splendid copywriter, Katie Dauson is now bringing together her passion for writing and creativity to turn words into music. “Torched” is a Country song where Katie Dauson reflects the hurtful feeling of unrequited love as the beloved one already had their heart occupied. You would listen to this song on a rainy day, grabbing your chest and trying to keep your heart in its place, but it still hurts as if it was “Torched.” Energizing drums, a blissful bass, and an upbeat guitar welcome you from the moment you hit the play button. The melody of the distorted lead guitar is touching and nostalgic, pairing perfectly with a crying harmonica. The instrumentals sound so organic you can open your heart easily to the music. Katie Dauson sure knows how to tell a story, and she does a fantastic job putting them into music and giving her voice to it. “Torched” is a great example of it. She knows how to make her listeners picture the pain of that failed romance through words and music, transmitting real feelings. Open up your window and ears and look at the landscape while immersing in the heartbreaking story of “Torched.” Welcome to BuzzMusic, Katie Dauson, and congratulations on your latest release, "Torched." What was the experience that inspired you to write "Torched"? There wasn't any single experience that inspired me to write this song. Throughout the course of my life so far, I've had to face a lot of adversity, both personally and professionally. Life can be very complicated and intricate, but the story of healing is universal. A story about someone who went through a difficult relationship and could get back on their feet and talk to a lot of people, even if what they've experienced isn't necessarily about that. How do you expect "Torched" to impact your listeners? I want them to know that there is always hope, even when feeling down and out. They have the strength to pick themselves up in almost any circumstance and keep moving forward. In the end, I hope they have a smile on their faces and feel optimistic about the present and the future. The message of the song is not to give up on yourself. How does your passion for writing influence your music? I know most songwriters and musicians do this the other way around, but I always write the words first and add the music after. My passion for writing helps me to come up with a story to tell, which is what good songs tend to be. Words can be very powerful and adding music to them only makes those words more impactful. What feeling would best describe your creative process? Joy. I have a lot of fun writing songs; I hope people can feel it when they listen to my music. Another feeling would be catharsis. Sometimes, I feel much better after I write something down on paper. Especially if what I'm trying to convey in the song does come across in what I wrote and how I wrote it. What's next for you? My next recording will be a blues song. After that, my first big project was my first studio album. It's going to be a folk album, a traditional roots kind of style. I think that will be a lot of fun and very different from what I've released. I've written most of the songs, but none have been recorded yet. Instagram Twitter

Takaayla becomes a voice of respect, sending a message to those who want to cross a line on other people's bodies and minds: "Know Your Place." Making music from Canada, Takaayla is a queer artist on a journey to create her lane in the pop genre. She merges diverse sounds and rhythms, breaking boundaries in her art, but it also reflects who she is and what kind of example she wants to be for young people and future artists. In "Know Your Place," Takaayla's voice inspires power and respect, like a queen speaking from a high place, warning that she owns herself and no one can make her do what she doesn't want. "Know Your Place" is a song that empowers people to put limits on their relationships with others. "Know Your Place" uses the sounds of Hip-hop to make a track that builds an aura of authority around Takaayla's voice and lyrics. The beats sound enveloping, and the bass gives weight to each word she sings. Her strong but melodic voice contrasts with the heaviness of the track. Consequently, it catches your attention every second and makes every beat a drop of pleasure to your ears. The amazing track and Takaayla's voice make the message clear, it is okay to let others get close to you and hang out, but they don't have the right to do with you as they please; there are limits on your body and self-respect no one can trespass. You must let others know their places. Take a listen to "Know Your Place" today and boost your self-respect with this irresistible fusion of hip-hop and pop. Welcome to BuzzMusic Takaayla, and congratulations on your latest release, "Know Your Place." What took you to create “Know Your Place?” Honesty just came up with the hook and melody, first with the lyrics “ imma put you in ur place" on repeat, then a month later had a writing session with singer/songwriter Michael Treacy and came up with the rest of the song just like that. It was so fun creating with her and sharing our ideas together Where do you get the strength to give such a powerful message in “Know Your Place?” Women all other the world, the people closest to me who have been through similar experiences with any form of sexual harassment and or assault. As a woman, it’s such a raw subject to write about, so definitely having an amazing support system around me definitely helps out a lot, so really. Just women/girls, in general, give me that strength. How have you overcome your fears to break new ground in the music world? I feel like I’ve broken the fear of breaking ground in the music world. Over the past 3 years, my confidence has skyrocketed, and I feel comfortable in my artistry to the point where I don’t really have to worry about fear. Although there is still some fear, I am able to push through :) What would you like people to learn when listening to “Know Your Place?” I want my listeners to learn that they aren’t alone when it comes to it. That there are so many people out there that can relate to you. I just want people to take back the powers that have been wrongfully stolen from them. In any shape or form, it doesn’t just have to be assault. What's next for you? LOTS OF SHOWS have been playing/booking lots of shows in Toronto, and hoping to extend very soon. also been working on my debut EP, which is hopefully to be released sometime next year. Instagram Facebook

Justin Payne just released his new rock single “together as one,” which promises to make it to the top of the list of your favorite songs. Justin is an accomplished artist who feeds his craft on his long experience as a musician, composer, and performer. His studies in classical violin and musical composition taught him to unleash his musical skills and creativity. Only a few artistic spirits can enrich his songwriting abilities from history and philosophy studies. With a significant portion of humankind’s artistic baggage in his mind and heart, Justin Payne created "together as one" accompanied by his full band Justin Payne & Co. They have Justin on vocals and guitar, Marshall Fassino on the second guitar, Dave Cerelli on bass guitar, and Eli Simon on drums. Hit the play button on "together as one'' to find an intro with a powerful combo of distorted rhythm and lead guitars, the bass waving notes, and exciting drums. The instrumentals make a fantastic synergy with Justin's emotional vocals. They manage so well to build up the energy through the song that you can feel the lyrics deep in your chest. When you hear Justin sing, ‘You’re the one I want to love for the rest of my whole life,’ you can’t help but sing out loud. Besides, the instrumentals are so great that you can feel them just like a burst of energy coming from your core and running to your limbs and mouth, and at its climax, you cry the lyrics out with Justin and rock your air guitar hard. Press play and get your daily dose of excitement by listening to “together as one.” Welcome to BuzzMusic Justin Payne & Co. What are the memories behind the lyrics of “together as one?” I suppose the most vivid memories that led up to writing the lyrics of this tune stem from my romantic relationship with my fiancee, Miranda. We both lived in the same college town in Ohio for decades, with different partners, before starting to date. We were friends for a long time beforehand, too. We have seen one another struggle with our respective lives, ups, and downs, long before we fell in love. Now that we have been together for nearly nine years, we have traveled the bumpy road of life and keeping a relationship alive, hand in hand, sometimes contentiously, most times with a solid unified front. I remember our happiest and hardest moments: vacations, short-lived breakups, arguments, and tender loving moments and words. We have supported one another through deaths in our immediate families and friend groups, disagreements, therapy, discovering my PTSD, the estranged relationship with my family, and many other peaks and valleys of life. She has been with me on my national tours, together seeing parts of the country we had never visited. She has had my back when I have played in empty rooms, feeling unnoticed and like a failure at my job. We have nursed each other back to health from serious surgeries and illnesses. And, despite what has come or what will come from life, we "struggle through it all as one, stumbling through this life, together as one". What was your greatest motivation to make “together as one?” I deeply love my fiancee. She's my life-mate, no question. So many of my songs try to tackle bigger, more existential issues in the world. So much of my job takes me away from her, mentally and physically. I owe so much of my stability and happiness, confidence in what I do, and will to carry the indie songwriter torch in a corrupt and misdirected industry to Miranda. While writing this new record, my mind kept going back to how much I have grown as an artist in the past year, to my big, risky plunge into the Nashville rock scene, and how scary and much more difficult it would have been to carry out alone. All of these thoughts were engendered by a creative rule I set for this project, to make all of these songs simple and straight from the heart, flying lyrically and structurally more on my intuition and gut feelings than letting the confines of "proper songwriting" get in the way. My heart kept reminding me of how deep our love goes, how much we've grown, and how far we've come. The kernel of this tune came from that. Life is a struggle, regardless, for almost everyone. What could be better than facing it with the one person you love and trust more than anyone else? That is what this one is about: the agony and the ecstasy of that journey. What makes “together as one” different from your other songs? Even though my output has been much more influenced by rocknroll and punk music over the past few years, I don't shy away from ballads as a songwriter. I have difficulty sticking to just one genre or way of doing things. Personally, I don't really care about genre. I value the message and feel of a tune. By that measure, this is my best ballad yet, because it is the most direct, with lyrics that most of us humans can relate to in our lives. It is direct and personal, unlike a big-picture-type song, and I think it hits the mark. I could not be more proud of how well the arrangement and the words line up. It tells a simple story, but with all the thunder and lightning that goes along with a tale of true love in a world that seems to want to tear us apart. What would you like to say to those who listen to “together as one?” Elder-Millenial lefty punks like me aren't TOO jaded by this world of chaos. We tasted the last of our society working, until adulthood at least, and carry with us a hope that we can change the world and our dim futures on this planet for the better through the virtues of trust, community, and love. This is as much a "grungy love anthem" as it is a testament to sticking to your guns. These themes run through almost every song on the forthcoming LP. What is your life if you don't stick to your principles in defiance of a neverending stream of external distractions, comparisons, and noise? What's next for you? A LOT! This tune has a music video releasing on 10/27/2022 on the Justin Payne & Co. Vevo channel (@justinpayneandvevo)! I cannot wait to unveil it, as the crew and I really hit a home run with this one! There is going to be another single from this record, "is this what it feels like?" releasing in December across streamers, as well as a six-song EP. There will be big local release shows in Nashville based around each. Another single, "bad vibes," will be dropping digitally alongside a third music video in early 2023 to accompany the full-length vinyl LP release "underrated/overstimulated", featuring songs you cannot get elsewhere. Somewhere amid that whirlwind, I think Miranda and I are going to take a much need vacation from the biz around the holiday season to rest, relax, and recoup before another round of writing and fleshing out the next record. Facebook Instagram