Search this site

Canadian dark folk artist Ghostly Hare has released “Anhedonia,” a haunting new single and accompanying music video that explores depression, emotional paralysis, and the difficult journey toward reclaiming personal power. The release introduces listeners to an atmospheric world where gothic folklore, cinematic storytelling, and deeply personal experiences intertwine. Canadian songwriter and producer Deanna Faye, known as Dee, Ghostly Hare, combines the dreamlike textures of shoegaze with the intimacy of dark folk and chamber pop. With “Anhedonia,” those influences converge in a deeply introspective composition born from trauma and emotional isolation. Written and recorded in a bedroom, the song emerged unexpectedly as Ghostly Hare experimented with an alternative guitar tuning. Its haunting chord progression became the foundation for a recording that deliberately preserves small imperfections, including the faint sounds of a portable heater, adding an intimate, almost ghostly quality to the production. The accompanying self-directed music video expands the song's emotional narrative through the traditional folktale The White Hare, reimagining a betrayed woman's supernatural transformation as a symbol of survival and empowerment. Filmed primarily around the artist's home and community, the visual embraces shadowy imagery and an unmistakable dark fairytale aesthetic. Remarkably, Ghostly Hare independently handled the songwriting, recording, production, filming, and editing while navigating mobility limitations following hip surgery. The creative process required carefully scheduled filming sessions and frequent periods of rest, making the finished project an especially meaningful achievement. Rather than offering easy answers, “Anhedonia” acknowledges the complicated nature of healing. Through its atmospheric production and symbolic storytelling, Ghostly Hare creates space for vulnerability while reminding listeners that even the darkest experiences do not have to define who we become. “Anhedonia” emerged after a period when you struggled to write or sing. Do you remember what it felt like to discover that haunting guitar progression finally, and did creating the song change your relationship with music during your recovery? When I discovered that guitar chord progression, it felt like breathing again for the first time in a long while. It was a feeling of "Ah, there I am," and also a sense of catharsis that some of the pain I was experiencing could be let go of through the music. I think I cried after writing it. Creating the song reminded me that music could be anything I wanted it to be, and I felt closer to songwriting again than I had for a long time. Sometimes life, or difficult experiences, can get in the way of making art. Making Anhedonia brought me back to the original heart of it. I also feel like it allowed me to expand into darker, more thematic genres which I'd always wanted to create in but felt held back from for different reasons. You've mentioned deliberately preserving imperfections in your recordings, including the sound of a portable heater. In an industry increasingly focused on polished production, what do you think artists risk losing when they remove those small, human details? I think that when small, human details are removed from music and art, you risk losing the soul or the life of it. Sometimes a live or demo version of very popular songs is preferred, and I think that's because it's a lot harder to polish and remove "imperfections" from those versions. Music was never meant to be polished and perfect; in its original form, it was meant to be seen and heard from live-playing musicians and singers. I think in a world where AI-generated art and music is increasing, it's even more important to protect the soul of human-made art. A lot of older, classical music that we love still retains some imperfections in the recordings and less polishing, which I believe is part of where its beauty lies. The music video draws from The White Hare, transforming a story of betrayal into one about reclaiming personal power. What drew you to this particular folktale, and how did you approach translating its symbolism into your visual storytelling? I was drawn to the folktale of The White Hare because it's the story of a woman who is hurt so much that she returns from beyond the grave as a completely new creature. Something about her transformation, conviction, and strength spoke to me. Right now, there is still unfortunately a stigma against women and all genders who have experienced abuse, especially when they speak up or stand up against it. For me, this story serves as a metaphor for those who have continued to survive even after. I wanted the visual piece of the music video to show the story of a woman who is seemingly irreparably hurt, becoming someone who ultimately reclaims her power. The "fair maiden" is transformed into a white hare who, in the end, is free. You created the music video while navigating physical limitations following hip surgery. How did those challenges influence your creative decisions, and did working within those boundaries lead to any unexpected artistic discoveries? The surgery placed a significant number of limitations on what I could do with the music video, for sure. For example, almost all of my mobility had specific limitations and restrictions, such as limits on how long I could sit or stand. There couldn't be any extreme dancing or running, and not very much walking, even. As a result, the video was filmed in mostly one specific location with the exception of a few others. I also had to film the video over several weeks and days, with lots of breaks in between scenes to lie down and rest. What I ended up creating was a blending and layering technique, where different scenes filmed on different days were composited together. I also used the magic of lighting to create different effects, like the effect of moonlight, candlelight, and shadow to make forms, shadows, and cinematic scenes. Some of the visuals as a result were very unique; for example, it looks like I'm inside a mirror with my cat. I also used a very old storytelling technique of traditional shadow puppets to tell the initial part of the story. The result was more ethereal and haunting than I could have hoped for, and I absolutely loved making it. Your music draws from dark folk, shoegaze, chamber pop, and gothic storytelling. As Ghostly Hare continues to evolve, are there other folklore traditions, literary themes, or cinematic influences you're interested in exploring in future releases? I'm interested in exploring so much! I am very much drawn to magical realism, traditional folklore, pagan mythology, witchy themes, and Victorian Gothic-inspired art. I would love to create more videos and music that encompass these themes. I would love to explore more mythological themes, particularly in my music and visual pieces. Guillermo del Toro's films in particular are a huge inspiration for me cinematically. The unique way he blends reality with magical, fantastical imagery is something I'd love to aspire to.

Los Angeles singer-songwriter GISELLE is entering spooky season with something darker up her sleeve. Blending pop, darkwave, and electronic production, her new single “REAL WITCH” turns negative energy into fuel for a supernatural story about intuition, protection, and knowing when something around you just feels off. Originally from Boston and raised in Buffalo, GISELLE has been making music practically her entire life, singing since age five and writing songs since eight. After moving to Los Angeles at 21, GISELLE has performed everywhere from The Hotel Cafe and The Mint to The Viper Room and Whisky a Go Go, building a catalog that refuses to stay locked into one genre. Built around the perspective of a witch whose abilities run in her blood, the song isn’t simply playing dress-up for Halloween. GISELLE uses witchcraft as a vehicle for something much more relatable: recognizing bad intentions, protecting your peace, and refusing to absorb whatever negativity someone else decides to throw your way. As that energy closes in, her protective and darker magic awakens, sending everything right back where it came from. Consider the return-to-sender policy officially activated. GISELLE says she hopes “REAL WITCH” reminds listeners “to protect themselves and be vigilant,” adding that people often have more power than they realize. The accompanying music video pushes the supernatural concept further, giving the track a visual world of its own. GISELLE will bring that energy to Whisky a Go Go in Los Angeles on October 29 for an all-ages Halloween show where costumes are encouraged.

At just 18, Central California singer-songwriter Andrew Melo proves that some of the most complicated emotions arrive before we learn to make sense of them. His latest single, “Your Problems Mine,” transforms the frustration of unrequited vulnerability into an emotionally charged indie-pop release that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. From his two-track project My Side of Town, “Your Problems Mine” explores the pain of loving someone who refuses to let themselves be loved. Inspired by Andrew Melo's own experience navigating young queer romance, the song confronts the uncertainty, self-doubt, and emotional exhaustion that come with trying to reach someone who keeps their walls firmly in place. Originally written as a stripped-back piano ballad, the track evolved into what Andrew Melo describes as a “Piano Ballad (Reinvented).” Emotional piano foundations collide with distorted synthesizers and an electric pulse, creating a dramatic arrangement that mirrors the story's intensity. Throughout the verses, Andrew Melo questions whether the relationship was ever reciprocated, while the choruses and bridge become declarations of his willingness to carry someone else's emotional baggage alongside his own. Having written and produced all seven of his released songs independently, Andrew Melo is already developing a recognizable creative identity. His journey includes opening for singer-songwriter Olivia Barton in his hometown of Merced, California, and recently beginning songwriting studies at Los Angeles College of Music. My Side of Town also marks a transition, closing the chapter on his high school years while introducing a more adventurous musical direction. With “Your Problems Mine,” Andrew Melo captures something particularly difficult about first heartbreak: sometimes the most painful part isn't losing someone's love, but realizing they never allowed you close enough to understand it. “Your Problems Mine” explores the frustration of wanting to support someone who refuses to be emotionally vulnerable. Looking back on the experience that inspired the song, do you think you were fighting for the relationship itself, or for the possibility of what you believed it could become? In this situation, I was definitely fighting for the possibility of what I believed it could become. Truthfully, the actual experience was not nearly as dramatic as the songs make it out to be, but that’s part of the magic of being a songwriter. Not to downplay the emotional impact and significance of the relationship, but we just hadn’t known each other for very long. It was an instant connection sort of thing, and it was in the early stages when it became difficult to build a deeper connection due to their lack of emotional availability. You describe the production as a “Piano Ballad (Reinvented),” combining intimate piano songwriting with distorted synths and an electric pulse. What inspired you to push the song in that direction, and how did you decide which emotions to express through the lyrics versus the production? When I produce, I like to experiment with lots of sounds and textures that might push the song into a new pocket of sound it wouldn’t have discovered otherwise. It doesn’t always land, but “Your Problems Mine” really found its footing in the studio (aka my bedroom). I think that since the lyrics are so raw and vulnerable, I needed the production to emphasize the chaoticness and urgency that I wanted to portray. My Side of Town represents both a farewell to your high school years and the beginning of your next chapter in Los Angeles. When you listen back to the music you made during those years, what changes do you notice in how you understand love, identity, and your own vulnerability? Listening back to the music I made in high school, I think the biggest change is in perspective and patience. I love those songs, but most of them feel impulsive and somewhat reactive in retrospect. I’ve found an emotional maturity and complexity in my songwriting when I take my time and reflect instead of react, which I want to cherish. Also, identity and love have been so intertwined in my life, especially in high school. I’m not closed off to relationships, but it's been fulfilling to explore aspects of my identity and self in my writing that aren’t tied to someone else. You've spoken about growing up feeling pressure to suppress parts of your personality that didn't fit traditional expectations of masculinity. How has embracing your identity influenced your confidence as a songwriter, and has creating music helped you reclaim emotions you once felt uncomfortable expressing? To be completely honest, creating music has helped me better understand and process those feelings and emotions, but it hasn’t made them any less uncomfortable. Embracing an identity that isn’t perceived as normal or right by large parts of society will never feel comfortable, but that’s something I have to continue to persevere through every day. I can only hope that it gets easier, but even if it doesn’t, I know how important it is to be true and authentic to myself, especially as an artist. You've already written and produced seven songs independently, opened for Olivia Barton, and begun studying songwriting at Los Angeles College of Music. As you enter this new environment surrounded by other developing artists, what parts of your creative process are you determined to protect, and where are you most excited to challenge yourself? I’ve found this question to be extremely relevant as of recently. Moving to LA and working with other artists has thrown me into a whirlwind of sound, genre, and voice that are completely new to me. It’s been amazing and creatively fulfilling to push my sonic boundaries and experiment with different subgenres, though my intimate and confessional style of songwriting is something I am consciously determined to protect. My favorite music is extremely vulnerable and intimate, and often feels like someone singing delicately right into your ear, and there’s a quality to that that I try to always incorporate in the way my lyrics are written and the tone of my voice I sing in.

Houston-based hip-hop artist 10kAce is making his presence known with his latest single, “We On,” a high-energy release celebrating ambition, confidence, and the satisfaction of stepping into a new chapter. Blending his Pennsylvania roots with Houston's vibrant hip-hop culture, 10kAce delivers an unapologetic anthem for anyone ready to embrace their own success. Originally from a town outside Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 10kAce has been creating music since childhood. His artistic journey took a more serious direction after returning home from Iraq in 2017, when he began dedicating himself to recording and developing his sound. Now based in Houston, 10kAce continues building his independent career through consistent releases, engaging content, and an increasingly defined creative identity. With “We On,” that evolution takes centre stage. The single embraces a larger-than-life mentality, pairing energetic lyricism with braggadocious confidence and celebratory themes. From success and lifestyle to personal ambition, 10kAce approaches the record with the conviction of someone determined to make an impact. The lyric “I'm 10 feet tall” captures that mindset perfectly, representing the confidence to enter any room knowing you belong there. While “We On” thrives on its bold attitude, its message extends beyond flexing. It's about recognizing personal growth, owning your accomplishments, and enjoying the moments you've worked toward. “I want people to hear ‘We On’ and feel that energy,” 10kAce shares. “I want you to feel confident, have fun, and believe that whatever you're chasing is possible.” Designed for late-night drives, celebrations, and moments worth remembering, “We On” reflects an artist increasingly comfortable with his direction. For 10kAce, the message is clear: success begins with believing you're already capable of achieving it. “We On” captures the feeling of stepping into a new level of confidence and success. What experiences in your personal life or music career made you feel like this was the right moment to release such a bold, celebratory record? “We On” represents the mindset I’m in right now. I’ve been through a lot in life, and I’ve had to learn how to keep pushing even when things weren’t going the way I wanted them to. I’ve been building my music career independently, putting my own money, time, and energy into my craft, and learning the business along the way. I’m at a point where I want to celebrate the progress I’m making while reminding myself that I still have a lot more to accomplish. For me, “We On” isn’t just about money or success. It’s about believing in yourself, knowing what you bring to the table, and moving like you belong wherever you’re trying to go. I feel like this is the right time because I’m taking my career seriously and putting myself in position for bigger opportunities. You grew up outside Pittsburgh but now call Houston home. How have those two cities shaped your musical identity, and what elements of Houston’s hip-hop culture have had the biggest influence on your sound? Growing up right outside Pittsburgh gave me my foundation. I come from an environment where you learn to be yourself, stand on what you believe in, and find your own way. Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas have their own sound and culture, and being from there will always be part of who I am. Moving to Houston opened me up to a different atmosphere, different people, and a whole new side of hip-hop. Houston has a strong musical identity, from the laid-back vibe and the way artists ride a beat to the culture of creating music that people can feel and enjoy. Being here has allowed me to experience that energy firsthand and continue developing my own sound. I don’t want to sound exactly like anybody else. I want to take what I’ve experienced in both places and create something that represents me as 10kAce. You’ve been making music since childhood but began taking recording seriously after returning from Iraq in 2017. How did that experience change your perspective on life, creativity, and what you wanted to accomplish as an artist? Music has been part of my life since I was a kid. I started writing around the age of 14, and I grew up listening to the church choir, my sister singing, and other musicians in my family. But after serving in the Army and returning from Iraq, my perspective on life changed. You start to realize that time isn’t promised, and you have to take advantage of the opportunities you have. When I got home, I started recording seriously in 2017 because I wanted to do more with something I’d always been passionate about. Losing my dad in 2022 also had a major impact on me and pushed me to take my dreams even more seriously. It reminded me that life is short, and I don’t want to look back one day wondering what could have happened if I’d given music everything I had. Music is more than just making songs for me. It’s a way to express myself, share my experiences, and hopefully connect with people who might be going through something of their own. The lyric “I’m 10 feet tall” represents a larger-than-life mentality. Was that confidence something you’ve always carried, or did you have to develop it through the challenges and experiences you’ve faced while building your career? I think I’ve always had that belief in myself somewhere inside, but life definitely taught me how to strengthen it. Confidence isn’t always about feeling like you’re on top of the world. Sometimes it’s about continuing to believe in yourself when things aren’t working out, when people don’t see your vision yet, or when you’re putting in work without seeing the results you expected. I’ve experienced setbacks and had moments where I had to remind myself why I started in the first place. “I’m 10 feet tall” represents the mindset of not allowing those experiences to make you feel smaller than you are. It means walking into situations with confidence, knowing your worth, and being willing to bet on yourself. I know I have more growing to do, but I’m no longer afraid to believe in what I can become. You’re growing your audience independently through music releases and content creation. What have been the biggest lessons you’ve learned about building a genuine connection with listeners, and what do you want the next chapter of 10kAce to represent? One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that people connect with the person behind the music just as much as they connect with the song. I’ve had moments where my content reached millions of views, and those experiences showed me how powerful social media can be when you let people see your personality and your journey. But I’ve also learned that getting views is only one part of it. You have to keep creating, stay consistent, and give people a reason to come back and support what you’re doing. I want people to feel something when they listen to my music. Whether it’s confidence, happiness, motivation, or simply feeling alive, I want my songs to mean something to them. The next chapter of 10kAce is about growth, bigger opportunities, and turning the attention I’m building into a lasting career. I’m not just trying to have a moment. I’m working toward building something that lasts, staying true to myself, and showing people what I’m capable of.

Ohio-born, Oklahoma-raised pop singer-songwriter Trinity Lake confronts dishonesty, heartbreak, and personal empowerment on “Run,” a deeply personal single about recognizing when a relationship is no longer worth fighting for. Following the release of debut EP Youth in 2025, Trinity Lake continues establishing a distinct presence in contemporary pop, combining Nashville-inspired storytelling with emotionally charged songwriting and mainstream pop sensibilities. With support from Teddy Swims and Meghan Trainor, alongside reactions from Alicia Keys, Michael Bublé, and Jelly Roll, Trinity Lake's growing recognition reflects an artist whose personal narratives are finding an audience. At the heart of “Run” is a painful realization: sometimes the person you trust most is the very person withholding the truth. Rather than romanticizing the aftermath of betrayal, Trinity Lake approaches the experience from a perspective of newfound clarity, transforming emotional disappointment into a declaration of independence. What makes the song's message particularly compelling is its refusal to confuse forgiveness with obligation. “Run” examines the uncomfortable space between discovering someone's true intentions and finally accepting that walking away is an act of self-respect. For Trinity Lake, the message is unmistakable. “When someone shows you who they are, it’s time to Run,” Trinity Lake explains. With “Run,” Trinity Lake continues building upon the vulnerable storytelling introduced on Youth, demonstrating how deeply personal experiences can become universally resonant statements about boundaries, intuition, and knowing one's worth. “Run” explores the moment betrayal turns into clarity. Was there a specific experience or realization that inspired you to write this song? “Run” came from a personal experience where I found out a guy had a girlfriend after telling me he didn’t. I wouldn’t say I was heartbroken over him, but I was frustrated by the dishonesty and the fact that I had been put in that position without knowing the full story. Word got around, and somehow, I ended up being made out to be the bad guy, while he was able to “RUN” away from the situation without any consequences. I think that’s what made the song so fun to write. I think a lot of people can relate to feeling like they got blamed for something they didn’t have the full picture of. Your songwriting often draws from deeply personal experiences. How do you decide which parts of your life you're comfortable sharing with listeners, and which moments remain private? I think if something is going to help somebody feel understood, then I'm usually pretty open to writing about it. I love being able to take something that happened to me and turn it into something other people can relate to, even if their situations are a little different. But I also think there is a difference between being vulnerable in your music and giving access to every part of your life. I can speak the truth without sharing every little detail. Once I put a song out, I let the listener find their own meaning in it, and I LOVE that. Your musical background stretches from Oklahoma choir rooms to Nashville-inspired songwriting and contemporary pop. How have those different influences shaped your identity as an artist? Growing up in Oklahoma definitely shaped the way I approached music. I would say my mom was a huge inspiration for the sounds I was drawn to growing up. The music she played is where I really developed my love for soul, pop, and R&B music. Being in choir helped me realize I was passionate about singing, but it didn’t give me the freedom to explore what I wanted to sing and write about. It only made me realize what I wanted to do was beyond choir music and being directed. I wanted to find my own voice and figure out what I wanted to say as an artist. When I moved to Nashville, I finally felt like I had the space to explore that side of myself creatively. I’ve ALWAYS been drawn to pop music, and I love when artists are raw, unhinged, and unfiltered. I want to be honest, push boundaries, and not be afraid to say what others might think but wouldn’t necessarily say out loud. To be honest, I'm that way outside of being an artist, too, so I wanted my music to reflect that part of who I am. Since releasing Youth in 2025, you've received recognition from some remarkable names in music. How has that encouragement influenced your confidence and creative direction? It has definitely been encouraging to have people I respect recognize what I am doing. When you’re first starting out, you spend so much time working on something and hoping it connects with people, so having that kind of support reminds you that you’re headed in the right direction. That encouragement has given me more confidence to trust my instincts and lean into the sound and stories that feel authentic to me. There's a powerful distinction between forgiving someone and allowing them to remain in your life. What has creating “Run” taught you about boundaries, self-respect, and moving forward? I think “Run” is a reminder that you don’t have to hate someone to know that you don’t want them in your life. I don’t tend to hold grudges, and I’m a pretty forgiving person, but that’s because I know I can move on knowing that a situation isn’t for me. For me, it’s about recognizing when someone’s actions don’t align with what they have told you and understanding you don’t have to stick around to find out. I hope people hear the song and feel empowered to tell their truth, realize their worth, and not sit around in situations that aren’t serving them.

Punk rock supergroup Fake Names are gearing up for the release of their third studio album, Punk Ruins, arriving October 23 via Epitaph Records. Their latest single, “If You Could See Me Today,” offers a compelling glimpse into the band's evolving sound, blending their D.C. hardcore roots with jangly guitars, infectious melodies, and a nostalgic sense of reflection. Featuring Brian Baker (Bad Religion, Minor Threat), Dennis Lyxzén (Refused), Michael Hampton (The Faith, Embrace), Johnny Temple (Girls Against Boys), and newly recruited drummer Mario Rubalcaba (Rocket From The Crypt, Off!), Fake Names bring together decades of punk history without allowing their individual legacies to overshadow the music. Produced by Matthew Bernhardt at Chicago's legendary Electrical Audio studios, Punk Ruins promises a spontaneous, collaborative approach to songwriting. Rather than following a predetermined direction, the band embraces experimentation, drawing from 1970s British punk, American hardcore, and guitar-driven power pop. With a European and North American tour beginning in January 2027, Fake Names are preparing to bring their latest material to audiences on both sides of the Atlantic. We caught up with Fake Names to discuss the creative freedom behind Punk Ruins, the evolution of their sound, and what it means to make punk music after decades of helping shape the genre. “If You Could See Me Today” carries a sense of nostalgia while exploring the remnants of the past. What inspired the song's lyrical direction, and how has your relationship with nostalgia changed as you've grown older? DENNIS: I am not at all a nostalgic person; I tend to move forward, and I'm much more interested in exploring the next thing. Even though I still love and have a huge fondness for a lot of music that I grew up on, that is more based on my love for music. The song deals more with the idea that when I grew up and when I discovered punk, no one believed in me. People made fun of me and bullied me, and I had precious few friends. But I took that feeling and that sense of revenge and ran with it and created a life doing exactly what no one believed that I could do. And that's a sweet thing. To be fair, though, most of the people that thought that I was weird and strange still think that I am, so maybe that's a victory in and of itself Each member of Fake Names has played a significant role in punk history. When you come together to write, how do you prevent those individual musical identities and expectations from influencing what Fake Names should sound like? BRIAN: Oh, you’ve got it wrong - we tap directly into our collective histories to influence the music we make in Fake Names. I can put on any song on the album and show you bits and pieces that are stylistically “on loan” - if not directly from one of our own bands, then from one of our contemporaries during those formative years. Fake Names was built to mine our biographies, not obscure them. Brian Baker has described Punk Ruins as a collective expression without guardrails or a predetermined direction. Was there a particular moment during recording when the band surprised itself by taking a song somewhere completely unexpected? BRIAN: Not really. All the surprises happen during the writing process. Michael and I could send a skeleton of a track to the rest of the guys and get back something completely different (and much better!) than what we had envisioned. We have to know basically what we are going to play by the time we get into the studio due to the great geographical distances between band members and the expense of recording. We had one single rehearsal day as a band before the tape started rolling. No time to muck about “jamming” - you know what I mean? Punk has always been associated with rebellion, independence, and challenging authority, yet the genre has also developed its own traditions and expectations. After decades in the scene, what do you believe punk has gotten wrong about itself, and what still makes it relevant today? DENNIS: Haha, that is a great question. I think what punk has gotten wrong about itself is its belief in its own importance. Even though I still truly believe in the spectacular power of music to chance maybe punk was never the movement the spearhead that change. One important part of punk is the antagonistic approach, and I think that is important. Even though punk should welcome everyone, it's not an idea for everyone. Also, I think that punk spent the past 50 years too busy with in-house fighting over who's real and who sold out and such that it never really had the edge to be a real force for radical change. And that is, of course, also something that punk got wrong. The constant fighting and bickering within the world. That being said, any type of movement that educates, enlightens, and strives towards a better world is worth something, and in its essence punk is still exactly that. With Punk Ruins arriving October 23, how does this record reflect where you are as musicians today compared to the artists you were when you first entered the punk scene, and what creative ambitions are you still chasing? BRIAN: Well, I certainly hope that we have grown a little bit as writers and musicians over the last 45 years or so! Our ambitions remain the same as they were when we were kids. We simply want to create new music with good friends, and if people like it as much as we do, it’s a bonus.

Filipina-American singer-songwriter AMANDA CHLOE explores the emotional weight of people-pleasing and the fear of disappointing others on her new single, “Speak of Me.” The California-based indie-pop artist delivers one of her most personal releases to date, shifting away from her familiar romantic themes to examine self-worth, anxiety, and the difficult process of learning to put yourself first. Written by AMANDA CHLOE and produced by Los Angeles producer David Burris, whose credits include Calum Hood, McKenna Grace, and ITZY, “Speak of Me” pairs dreamy production with deeply introspective songwriting. The track addresses the exhausting cycle of seeking approval, anticipating criticism, and measuring personal value through achievements and other people's expectations. Through its intimate lyrical perspective and atmospheric arrangement, AMANDA CHLOE captures the internal struggles that often accompany the desire to keep everyone happy. Having grown up in a musical family, AMANDA CHLOE began sharing acoustic covers on YouTube in 2016 before establishing a career in the Philippines, where she won ABS-CBN's Bida Star Singer competition and later appeared on several television programs. Since returning to California in 2023, AMANDA CHLOE has embraced indie-pop and dream-pop influences, with previous releases earning placements on Spotify's Fresh Finds Philippines and New Music Friday Philippines. Now a mother, AMANDA CHLOE also draws inspiration from her desire to raise her son with an understanding of unconditional love and personal independence. With “Speak of Me,” AMANDA CHLOE delivers a relatable reminder that self-worth should never depend on external validation, marking a meaningful step forward in her songwriting. “Speak of Me” explores the pressure of constantly trying to meet other people's expectations. Was there a particular experience that made you realize how deeply people-pleasing had influenced your sense of self? I honestly feel like it started pretty young, especially with me wanting to get good grades or do well in music competitions to gain the approval of my family members or teachers. I remember just having so much anxiety as a kid about making mistakes for that reason. It particularly solidified when I was in high school, taking up so many advanced classes and extracurricular activities, and my choir teacher, whom I respected dearly, pulled me aside and told me that it was okay to say no. She noticed how burnt out I was and asked if I was doing these things for myself or to make other people happy. This was an eye-opener for me. But of course, like all habits, it wasn’t easy to break until I really worked on it in therapy as I lived through my early 20s. Especially being in this industry where you’re literally wearing your heart on your sleeve and expecting people to watch you, it’s definitely a process! I’m still a work in progress, and writing this song really helped. You mentioned growing up believing that love had to be earned through achievements and approval. How has unlearning that mindset changed the way you approach your relationships, creative decisions, and career? As I mentioned in the previous question, I’m still a work in progress, and I definitely still have people-pleasing tendencies! I just feel like I’m more aware of it now and able to catch myself having such thought processes. I’ve definitely learned to be more confident and believe in myself more! By having a stronger sense of self, I definitely can manage my relationships, my career in healthcare, motherhood, and of course my music career through a better lens. I remind myself to do things for myself and for my own happiness because at the end of the day, it’s not what others think, but your own mental health that matters! This is your most vulnerable release yet and a departure from your usual romantic songwriting. Did writing about your relationship with yourself feel more intimidating than writing about your experiences with other people? It was definitely more intimidating. For me, writing happy romantic love songs felt safe. I was comfortable with writing those cutesy love songs, but I recently realized that I wanted my audience to open up my discography and see who I really was as a person. And that includes my vulnerable side because I’ve been through so much beyond surface-level romance. “Speak of Me” is literally like a diary entry for me. It encapsulates my internal dialogue and the struggles I’ve had since I was a child. I feel like writing about something so dear to your heart is always scary, but I’m happy I wrote it, and with how it turned out! Becoming a mother has given this song another layer of meaning. What lessons about self-worth and unconditional love do you hope your son learns from watching you pursue music and embrace your individuality? Motherhood has given me a whole new purpose, especially in doing my music. I want my son to see my music and hopefully be inspired to pursue his own dreams when he’s older. I want to teach him that doing things for yourself and your happiness is healthy and that whatever he chooses to do won’t change my love for him! Basically, the things I needed to hear growing up, I’ll do my best to allow him to hear that. I also think that you can still pursue your goals and dreams after becoming a parent! Your career has taken you from performing in the Philippines to developing a dreamier indie-pop sound in California. How have those different chapters shaped your artistic identity, and does “Speak of Me” represent the direction you want to explore moving forward? I’m forever grateful for all of the chapters I’ve gone through to get to where I am now! Looking back, I went from being a cover artist to performing on TV in the Philippines to discovering my true sound. I’m a firm believer that everything happens for a reason and contributes to your journey as an artist! So I had to go through all of those chapters to really discover who I wanted to be. I feel like this release definitely is the closest I’ve ever gotten to who I wanted to be as an artist, which is to make music that is a direct reflection of my experiences and my heart. David Burris, who I worked with on this track, really helped carry out my vision for the song and the dreamy elements of it just felt right. He’s actually worked with artists I look up to a lot, such as Calum Hood, and the sound is influenced by his latest album as well. So all of it felt like it perfectly aligned with my vision! I feel like being genuine and true to myself is my goal for my artistry, and this is definitely a track in that direction!

Arizona-based independent pop artist Makaio Huizar is preparing to release his latest single, “CLOSET,” introducing a new chapter in his evolving sound. Blending alternative pop, experimental electronic production, and emotionally driven songwriting, the upcoming release explores the complicated reality of being loved behind closed doors but never acknowledged in public. At just 19 years old, Makaio Huizar has already built a growing audience through his deeply personal approach to music, accumulating over 365,000 streams across his catalog. Following his debut project, What Do You Want To Be When You're Older?, the singer-songwriter is stepping beyond his familiar bedroom pop territory and embracing a more energetic, experimental direction. Built around the experience of being someone's secret, the single captures the emotional push and pull of a relationship that only exists when nobody else is watching. From stolen moments to carefully constructed excuses, Makaio Huizar explores what happens when genuine affection becomes tangled in secrecy, uncertainty, and the fear of being seen. One of the song's most compelling elements is its central metaphor. Comparing himself to someone's favorite shirt tucked away in a closet, Makaio Huizar illustrates the uncomfortable feeling of being wanted privately but never proudly chosen. But what makes “CLOSET” particularly interesting is how Makaio Huizar approaches such a vulnerable subject through brighter electronic textures and an increasingly energetic arrangement. The track builds toward an anthemic section around the 2:58 mark, offering a glimpse into his expanding pop potential. Produced entirely by Makaio Huizar, with piano contributions from OwenWho, “CLOSET” represents an exciting creative shift without sacrificing the honesty that defines his music. While rooted in experiences surrounding queer relationships and hidden identity, its message speaks to anyone who has ever felt like someone's best-kept secret. With “CLOSET,” Makaio Huizar proves that artistic growth doesn't mean leaving vulnerability behind. Sometimes, it means finding an entirely new sound to express it. Your new single “CLOSET” explores the experience of being loved in private but hidden from the world. Was there a particular moment or relationship that pushed you to turn those feelings into a song? I've had a few relationships where I’ve definitely felt hidden. This song is written from an LGBTQIA+ perspective, and anyone in our community could tell you they’ve experienced that dynamic and how it feels. I wrote this song in February of 2026 after seeing someone who was keeping me hidden. Then I got to writing, thought of every time I'd felt that way, and wrote the rest of the song pretty naturally. The metaphor of being someone's favorite shirt tucked away in a closet is incredibly powerful. How did that concept come to life, and what does it represent about the difference between being wanted and being genuinely loved? To be honest, I have NO clue how I came up with the metaphor haha. I just thought of loving someone in the closet, and how I felt like their favorite shirt in the moment but not something they’d be with or “wear” in public. A closet is something we all go to every day, and we treat it as a necessity. Some shirts you wear all the time, and sometimes there’s one shirt that’s your absolute favorite, and you’ll wear it when you're alone or at home but never in public; that's how I felt in the relationship. This dynamic shows they want you, yes, but they're not ready to love you, and that is a hard place to be, but it happens, so I had to write about it. “CLOSET” marks a significant departure from your earlier bedroom pop releases. What pushed you to experiment with a more electronic, energetic sound, and did stepping outside your comfort zone change how you approached songwriting? I released my debut album “What Do You Want To Be When You’re Older?” in April of 2026, and I was super happy with it, but I also felt like I could do something different. I’m mostly known for my softer bedroom pop songs, and I love that genre, but I was really inspired by Tiffany Day’s “Everything I’ve Ever Wanted,” an electronic song with sad lyrics, and I wanted a similar feel. “CLOSET” talks about me being someone’s experiment, and with “CLOSET” I wanted it to be my own creative experiment, so on top of the pianos I added synths and drums and made it turn into something very alternative and experimental to reflect the song's meaning, and to show that I, as an artist, can try something different and explore new sounds. This song has inspired me to keep working on electronic sounds and to explore more experimental sounds and pop music; I’m excited to try things I haven’t done before! There's an interesting contrast between the upbeat production and the emotional weight of the lyrics. Was that contradiction intentional, and what did you want listeners to discover beneath the song's more playful exterior? I really wanted this song to work for all moods in a short 3.5 minutes. The first minute and a half feels like a “cry in your bedroom” type, but the ending feels like a “roll the car windows down, blast this song and drive” type. Again, I really wanted to try something different sonically, but my lyrics and vocal layers are all still very much me, Makaio. I was going for sad lyrics with an upbeat feel, and I made the anthemic bridge at 2:58 to get stuck in your head and serve as the final explosion before the song ends dramatically. I hope the listeners of all demographics and sexualities can see what being loved privately feels like. I feel like we’ve all gone through that experience, regardless of sexuality, and I wanted to capture that and make sure the people who need a song to resonate and connect with have one! I feel like this isn’t a topic talked about enough in music, especially from an LGBTQIA+ perspective. At just 19, you've already accumulated over 365,000 streams while building your career independently. As you enter this new creative chapter, what parts of your identity as an artist are you ready to challenge, and what do you hope never changes about your music? As an artist experimenting with new sounds, I'm ready to face failure. We all have ups and downs, and I’m trying new things, and it won’t always work out, and that’s okay! It’s art; it’s about experimenting, pushing your limits, and reaching as far as you can. There’s nothing to lose, and I hope other small artists can feel that way too. I’m very excited to work on new music, which I have been teasing on my social media. I’m excited because they’re lyrically very different: I’m writing about more mature topics, love and heartbreak, and exploring new sounds and genres, and I’m ready to jump into that. What I hope never changes about my music is my vulnerable songwriting, and how my songs make my small but beautiful fan base feel seen and understood. I make music to help others feel less alone in what they're going through, and I hope it keeps doing that for my fanbase and for anyone else who finds it.

Toronto's independent music scene continues to deliver compelling collaborations, and Jzy Jay and Degrassi alumni The Grey are adding to that momentum with “Hear Me Now,” featuring fellow Toronto artist odditie. Blending indie-pop and alternative influences, the release explores the emotional pull of past relationships, lingering memories, and the hope that someone you once loved might still feel the same way. Built around the bittersweet nature of nostalgia, “Hear Me Now” captures that familiar experience of hearing a song and instantly being transported back to a particular person, place, or moment. It's a relatable concept, but what makes the track intriguing is its balance between romantic reflection and a warm, summery atmosphere. Rather than dwelling entirely on heartbreak, the collaboration embraces the complicated emotions that come with looking back on love. There's an underlying sense of optimism throughout the song's narrative, even as its central message acknowledges the uncertainty of whether those feelings are reciprocated. The collaboration brings together three Toronto creatives, including Daniel Kelly, known as The Grey, and Jordy Todosey, known as odditie. With odditie contributing to the release, “Hear Me Now” becomes a shared exploration of love, memory, and emotional vulnerability. At its core, “Hear Me Now” is about the connections that continue to resonate long after individual moments have passed. For listeners who have ever associated a particular song with someone special, Jzy Jay x The Grey and odditie offer a reminder that music has a remarkable ability to preserve feelings that words alone cannot always explain.

London-born, Seattle-based singer-songwriter Taliwhoah has released her latest single, “Get It Up" as a bold introduction to a new chapter in her musical career. Combining hypnotic Afro-fusion rhythms with contemporary R&B influences and atmospheric production, the release explores feminine confidence, sensuality, and personal liberation while introducing a more provocative creative direction for the internationally influenced artist. Drawing inspiration from her Jamaican, Yoruba Nigerian, Lebanese, and Sierra Leonean heritage, Taliwhoah has established a distinctive musical identity rooted in Afro-Caribbean rhythms, soulful melodies, and emotionally expressive songwriting. Her latest offering expands on those foundations through darker production elements, an infectious uptempo groove, and a seductive vocal delivery that recalls the contemporary sounds of Tems, Rihanna, PARTYNEXTDOOR, and Don Toliver while maintaining her individual artistic perspective. Beyond its rhythmic appeal, “Get It Up” reflects a significant shift in Taliwhoah's approach to self-expression, particularly her willingness to explore aspects of femininity and desire that are often subject to societal expectations. “I feel like I've entered a stage in my life where I am owning the dark side of my femininity,” Taliwhoah explains, describing a period of personal growth that has encouraged greater creative freedom and a more unapologetic approach to her music. Having navigated the entertainment industry since her early television appearance at the BET Awards and subsequently establishing her creative independence in 2020, Taliwhoah continues to build a career defined by cultural influences and artistic evolution. With another EP planned for 2027, “Get It Up” signals the beginning of an increasingly confident musical direction, positioning the forthcoming project as another opportunity to explore the relationship between vulnerability, empowerment, and contemporary R&B. “Get It Up” explores a more sensual and unfiltered side of your femininity. What experiences or personal realizations led you to feel ready to express that side of yourself so openly through your music? Coming home to myself through healing from romantic and platonic breakups in recent times has helped me really appreciate my self-expression in all forms. I think for a while I maybe shamed myself for wanting to be more explicit about my thoughts or always felt that I had to be expressing myself in love in this deeply poetic and aloof/mysterious way. But second, I let go of that limiting belief I found myself having more fun with writing again! The production carries a dark, hypnotic energy while maintaining an infectious Afro-fusion groove. How did you balance sensuality and rhythm, and what musical influences shaped the final sound? I've really enjoyed revisiting a lot of classic rnb albums as of late, and I think that in doing that I've found my pocket flowing over bassy beats with melodic accompaniment! Listening to a lot of production from Dark Child, Static Major, Bryan Michael Cox, and Brian Morgan really got me back in my bag! Your Jamaican, Yoruba Nigerian, Lebanese, and Sierra Leonean roots have influenced your musical identity. How do those cultural backgrounds continue to shape your creative instincts, especially as you explore new directions in Afro-fusion and contemporary R&B? My cultural background really strengthens my connection to exploration! No matter what, I’m going to try what moves me emotionally, and tho I’ve gotten some critique for not having an identifiable style or genre at the beginning of my career, contrary to popular opinion about my sound, I believe that’s what gives me a unique flair! I can almost get on any track and make it mine — whether that does me any justice in building a “brand” (lol), idk? But honestly, I am always down to explore something new, old, or something never done, and I think I make that sound and look good lol. You've lived through several chapters of the music industry, from working with Rostrum Records to becoming fully independent in 2020. How has creative independence changed your relationship with songwriting, especially when it comes to expressing ideas you might have kept private before? I’ve failed enough times now to know that there’s really no right way to do this! I’ve done things the way I’ve been told to, and I’ve also tried doing things my own way! I think at each point of my journey so far, I’ve carved my own lane and dealt with the consequences and also the successes of that experience! No matter what tho each experience provided data for whatever is next, and that’s been a blessing so far in my independent journey thus far. With a new EP planned for 2027, “Get It Up” feels like an introduction to another dimension of your artistry. What can listeners expect from this upcoming project, and how does this new era reflect the person and artist you're becoming? They can expect me fully embracing my villain era lol. I know that’s so cliché to say, but I’ve truly lost all wherewithal when it comes to caring too much to say the thing on my mind, or cut ties with things or processes that no longer serve me just for the sake of saving face or seeing it through to prove my loyalty. Sonically, it’s getting deep and dark, but it’s always going to have some melodic light at the end of the tunnel to look forward to! I’m diving more into my visual direction and letting that take flight also — being super intentional about the audio elements that help bring the soundtracks to life