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Toronto-based artist and songwriter Ekelle has hit the mark again, releasing a genre-blending track that leaves listeners feeling powerful, energized, and ready to take on the world. Ekelle has made a name for herself over the years by performing at many large events including Afrofest, GTA Pride, Nuit Blanche, and Durham Caribbean Festival. She is also consistently releasing music that does not conform to rigid categories set within the music industry. By mixing and matching multiple genres within each release, she is able to craft a new experience for her listeners every single time. Ekelle has also coined the term ‘Hood Pop’ to represent her sound, describing it as, “Popular music with a street edge. Hood Pop combines elements of hip hop, pop, and R&B.” This time around, Ekelle brings audiences an upbeat, pump-up anthem with “Ripe and Sweet,” focused on not letting the negativity of others diminish one’s spark. The songwriter consistently pulls from real-life experiences, keeping things fresh and relatable for her listeners, and “Ripe and Sweet” is no different. An infectious beat pulls the track along while leaving the perfect amount of room for Ekelle’s honest lyrics to tell us exactly who she is, and to be 100% unapologetic about it. Infused with messages of self-empowerment which are echoed in an extremely catchy hook, Ekelle demonstrates her care-free attitude towards any haters, guiding listeners to do the same. She recites, “Ripe and sweet they want to hate on me, cause I'm a somebody nobody can romp with we.” We look forward to singing along to more tracks from Ekelle in the new year with her upcoming album, 'Let’s Get It.' “Ripe and Sweet” feels like the perfect pump-up anthem to finish off the year with. What is the main message you’d like your listeners to take away from the track? Thanks so much! ‘Ripe And Sweet’ is all about embracing your self-confidence no matter what. You know what they say, if you have haters you’re doing something right, haha! But on a serious note sometimes people can make assumptions about you and try to bring you down when you’re experiencing success. Instead of letting the gossip get to you, try and see it as a compliment, people are obviously taking notice of what you’re doing and that’s a sign to keep on killing it. Can you tell us a bit about the process of writing “Ripe and Sweet,” and what the main inspiration behind your lyrics was? I wanted to make something that people can dance to and relate to as well. I love that bad bitch energy has become such a thing. I love seeing female artists making music that’s uplifting but very much framed by today’s girl boss culture. I really wanted to give the listeners anthemic lyrics that would hype them up but also highlight all the ways in which they slay. It’s a hype track for the listeners just as much as it is for me, it’s important to acknowledge your hard work and how far you’ve come. You’re known to have coined the term Hood Pop to describe your music. Can you tell us a bit more about Hood Pop and what it represents for you? Of course! I grew up listening to a lot of different types of music. My mom did a great job of sharing all kinds of genres she loved with me, music played all over the house when I was a kid. Because of that I love so many different styles of music and didn’t want to box myself in by just doing one thing, that’s why I created Hood Pop. In making Hood Pop my genre I don’t limit myself. Hood Pop is a combination of hip hop, pop music, and R&B, it’s popular music with a street edge. It really just allows me to be me and create freely. Reflecting on this past year, what has been your biggest takeaway from 2021 in terms of personal growth for you? I think it’s really important to set your own bar for yourself and raise it accordingly. 2020 devastated most of us and made us really think about who and what matters in our lives. 2021 was the year to put all of that into practice on your own journey. Social media and insecurity can make us feel like so many people are crushing it while we’re not, but we will most likely never know another person’s story. Don’t concentrate on what others are doing, focus on your strengths and the resources you have available to yourself. Make success happen for you on your own terms, never someone else’s. Your hard work will pay off if you’re willing to continuously learn and grow. What's next for you, Ekelle? Right now I’m focusing on putting the finishing touches on my upcoming album. I’ll be dropping one in early 2022 called ‘Let’s Get It’. It’s my first album and the longest project I’ve ever done. I’ve finished all the recordings and am now in the process of planning a video and some other fun content to support the release. Looking forward to getting it out in the world! officialekelle.com instagram.com/officialekelle

Maro DēLo aims to provide his fanbase with a safe space to feel heard and understood. The singer-songwriter cast out tales of vulnerability and unmatched emotion as he dips into his desire for the alluring structures present in his craft. Giving his audience a sense of belonging, he trickles into the myriad of life's aspects that lonely souls usually ponder. Immediately drowning our speakers in the profound offering of opulent guitar riffs and a vocal that sends chills down your spine, we're blown away by the intimacy showcased in "Willing Hands." Through the powerful arrangement that ignites a fiery essence of passion-fueled tenors, the prevailing core that bolsters a soundscape of this caliber has us simmering in the wistful ease produced. As his exclusive croons shed the angelic reverberations chiming into your heart, the earworm lyrical motifs flourish in a remarkably potent realm. Allowing us to embrace the vast array of emotions that surface from his heartrending performance, we admire Maro DēLo's strength in conveying a tale that many can relate to. Knowing that it takes more than just intoxicating instrumentation to have his listeners enthralled in the glimmering notes shed, Maro DēLo explores his vocal range to transmit themes of love and longing to those gravitating towards his resonance. Always astonished by what this emerging artist can conjure up, his artistry has us experiencing a sonic voyage that digs deeper than just the outer layers of our embodiment. "Willing Hands" takes us into the more than capable grasp on Maro DēLo for what we deem a profession of vulnerability at its finest. You're known for the passion that you pour into each creation conveyed. In terms of the main inspiration laced into this record, what do you owe this to? The main inspiration for Willing Hands is really owed to the reciprocation and understanding that we all seek in relationships. It's universal to say that we want our significant other to make certain sacrifices to make it work, as the right person in a relationship should. I live a very crazy lifestyle myself, and I know that it's going to take a very special woman to be content with how much I can give to her. We know that oftentimes it can take a team to bring forth a release in its most successful state. Was there anyone assisting you in the vision that you impeccably conveyed? What was it like working with them during this process? In the writing process of this song, all I had was myself. Well, sort of... I wrote most of the song when I was 18, let it sit for 3 years (because I couldn't deliver the vocals it took to make it the way it is now), then picked it back up at 21 and realized something wasn't right... the bridge. It wasn't nearly as flushed out as the final product, so that made me have to go deep into my mind and perceive the story of this song from my 18-year-old self, someone who had never been in a relationship before, and wondered "How can I construct this narrative about relationships to not only those who have not been in one before?" I knew that was a lot to ask myself and I was clueless if I'm being completely honest, but before I knew it, I had some "scratch" vocals to work the melody in my head. After running them by a couple of trained and untrained ears, I got the same response: "Those aren't throwaway words, keep those!!" It was then that I realized I had a song on my hands that practically wrote itself, which taught me a lesson: I didn't have to go back in time to write this, cause that was who I was then; I'm the me that I am right now, not me I was back then. What is the main message that you aim to send to your audience through the release of "Willing hands"? The main message I want to convey is that a relationship is a two-way street. A balanced give-and-take may never be 50/50, it fluctuates depending on the person What has been the best piece of advice that you've taken away from 2021? The best piece of advice that I've taken from 2021 is to focus on what I can control and to move on from what I can't. What's next for you? What's next for me is... instagram.com/marodelomusic facebook.com/grease.ball.7568

On his search for peace of mind from New York City, singer-songwriter and recording artist MARQÛIS, aka PHANTOM, releases his sweet and smooth single, "FACES." MARQÛIS isn't just an artist but an apparition. PHANTOM (MARQÛIS) was able to carve out his unique artistry in this weird world we're living in, allowing him to build the crossroads between fantasy and reality. MARQÛIS hopes to bring a broader sense of understanding to this simula-...uh, life. Now releasing his honest and groovy tune, "FACES," the song was produced by RAMOON and offers a lively and uplifting Afrobeat atmosphere to keep us dancing the night away. MARQÛIS' vocal delivery is wildly lush and is perfectly complemented by RAMOON's soulful and glittery Afrobeat/dancehall production. Diving into the new single, "FACES," we're met with a breathtaking and cinematic piano instrumental and MARQÛIS's hazy background vocals. As RAMOON drops the savory and upbeat dancehall drums, MARQÛIS makes his sultry and passionate vocal appearance while offering someone his entire heart, mind, and body. As we groove over to the hook, MARQÛIS jumps into the lush sonics with the utmost heavenly vocals while singing in falsetto to put us under a serene and sweet spell of sonic bliss. We can't help but tap our feet throughout this light-hearted and upbeat tune, especially as MARQÛIS continues to swoon us with his optimistic and heartfelt words of passion, clarity, and devotion. Making his way around the hook one last time, MARQÛIS and RAMOON both close the song with nothing but radiance and heart. Introduce yourselves to the many "FACES" of MARQÛIS' artistic creativity, now available on all digital streaming platforms. We adore the passionate and groovy feel of your latest single, "FACES." What inspired you to create this sweet single? So PHANTOM is all hip hopped rappity rapped out, right- like that’s how PHANTOM started- trying to be a *bar god* - real aggressive stuff. So that’s usually the approach. However, HIM is a child of art- and HE may or may not sing a little. (May or may not have done acapella, in college years.) Years ago, the homie Ed put PHANTOM on to “Made In Lagos” by Wizkid. Before PHANTOM takes the stage every night, his day role allows me he plays music in HIS work lobby, and thus stumbled upon playlists with riddim of the motherlands - back to back- drums, keys, chords driving bass… Burna Boy, Rema, Tems… these sounds that are natural to the land we all live on. Which existed far before we were here. So then the writing process commenced, with adaptation. Did you work with producer RAMOON when creating the production for "FACES"? Or did he have the beat made for you beforehand? PHANTOM is a *YouTube* new age crate-digging type of bandit. That’s what makes us believe, the difference between artists who are knowing and developing a sound, versus maybe just trying their hand. RAMOON (great producer and person as well, gave the blessing towards FACES- PHANTOM is very thankful) has a lot of work online. PHANTOM just happened to pick which piece *meshed* the best with the proposed writing direction so that PHANTOM could flesh out as best as possible as an overall body of work. RAMOON is an awesome and capable producer. How do songs like "FACES" represent you and the type of music you create? Do you usually go for such groovy, passionate, and uplifting tracks? FACES is bigger than the usual approach. The music is sole to inspire you to move, as a reflex, as an “understood-but-not-spoken-occurrence”. This type of music does not exist in the same capacity as it may be, used to. Everything is so pointed, nowadays. You have to search heavily to find the groove. Seeing that "FACES" is your last song of the year, would you say this track is a perfect close to 2021? Why did you choose to release this track as your last of the year? I can see FACES as a way to kick off your new year. A new start. When we go out, what do we see? Even with masks on. We see faces. Faces that tell stories… sorta like that Nas commercial. If FACES can find a space on your playlist, then for that duration of a song, you will be able to find that necessary joy, maybe for you to dance and step- for even a short time… because we are all here. What's next for you? PHANTOM’s new album “VOTE FOR PHANTOM” is now available on Apple Music, Spotify, Pandora, YouTube & YouTube Music, Instagram, Tik Tok, and any other streaming service you can get your fingers on. lephantomdeopera.com is the name of the website, and through there we can preorder merch and such (T-Shirts/Hoodies)- “FACES” - MARQÛIS (Prod. RAMOON) - is now out as a single as well, on all streaming services - however, I suggest you listen to the whole “VOTE FOR PHANTOM” (MARQÛIS) album, just so you can get an understanding of how a song such as FACES may have come about. Then get back to us. We will be waiting for you. As far as the new year, no plans- please listen to the album, more work coming- we wish everyone the best of health and a positive way to move forward in these times- right now the simulation is- the simulation is- You’re cutting ou- Losing serv- lephantomdeopera.com twitter.com/iam_lephantom instagram.com/iam_lephantom

Authentically seasoned singer and musician Becky Raisman is making a noticeable impact with her recent work. Originally from the Chicagoland area, but now residing in Charleston, SC, Becky Raisman uses her natural talents to cultivate the very sound she releases to the masses today. With a strong background in music, including vocal coaching, taking lessons at the School of Rock for keyboard, and now working at Bach to Rock, Becky Raisman's resumé proves to be ever-expanding, and her savvy expertise easily gets perpetuated throughout her very work today. Becky Raisman has released her very own self-titled EP. The body of work consists of songs "Sun," "A Moment With You," and "A Song That Plays In My Heart," all of which are jam-packed with warm and sincere expressions from Becky Raisman. Her vibrant, ever-flowing charisma begins with "Sun," a song with a magical introduction that sets a feel-good, movie-like tone for listeners to revel in. Becky Raisman and her confident approach to vocal delivery can penetrate the melody in a way that makes her and her voice stand out beyond comparison. "Sun" perpetuates the exact kind of vibe you'd think a song titled "Sun" would. Becky Raisman generated a truly vibrant single with her uncanny enthusiasm and explosive vocal tones in "Sun." An even more interesting framework is set with "A Moment With You," which has a melody that captures an almost country/pop-like tone, while the vocal tone of Becky Raisman adheres more to an electronic-based style. "A Moment With You" is where Becky Raisman expresses all of her heartwarming feelings and gushy emotions surrounding infatuation and love. "I want to make a moment or two with you," she sings with heart, never wavering in spirit or stamina. With what appears to be a clear and direct message, Becky Raisman definitely integrates some hidden messages into "A Moment With You," so make sure to keep a close listening ear to what the artist has to say. The last track on Becky Raisman's EP includes one that possesses a more laidback, chilled-out melody, but most definitely not a laidback performance on Becky's end. The real vitality of "A Song That Plays In My Heart" arises from Becky Raisman's vocal delivery (which by now, you'd see the pattern is that she brings all the energy to her songs). She sings, "Let's get crazy, let's get loud, I'm intoxicated, baby you're a song that plays in my heart." There's such a fun-loving ambiance brought to the listening table with the way she executes these lyrics, and you can't help but get attracted to the seething jubilance that comes from Becky Raisman herself. All in all, Becky Raisman's EP verified that she's not only an artist that offers enjoyable and stirring musical performances, but she's also an artist that has a riveting, as well as fun-hearted, story to tell. Thank you for joining us, Becky Raisman, and congratulations on the release of your EP. How would you describe the way this body of work shines a light on you as an artist? My songs are upbeat, catchy, dancing, good love songs. I like to keep things fresh, new. Out of the three songs presented on your EP, which song expresses the most vulnerable thoughts and emotions from you? I like all 3 songs because they are all unique. They are all different. I've gotten great feedback people to love the first song "Sun" and "A Song That Plays In My Heart" some like "A Moment With You" Was there a certain theme you attempted to keep up within your EP? No theme really just feel-good tunes, that will leave people wanting for more. I like upbeat, catchy, tunes but I think ballads can be very romantic. With your EP finally being released, where do you see yourself heading? I'm heading to promote it, my EP has been playing on internet radio and terrestrial radio as well. I've been giving out copies of my CD. I'm working on a new single at the moment. What's next for you? New tunes. I'm working on a new single and probably another EP. I hope to one day be on the voice or even America's Got Talent or even a songwriting show like Songland. If anyone is reading this and had connections with the shows contact me. Website

20-year-old KWEZZ hails from Dublin, Georgia, with an artistic skillset prominent in the new wave of the music industry. Presenting us to his single “Voices,” which is the introductory single from his EP titled ‘Dark Clouds,’ we get to experience KWEZZ in a way that has us dipped in harmonic bliss sure to have you submerged in the melodies before you. Going through a copious amount of trials and tribulations while writing this piece, KWEZZ gave “Voices” its name due to not being able to talk to anyone through it all and finding himself having conversations in his head. Taking us into this type of depth to commence his EP, we immediately pick up on the vulnerability that runs through the pen of KWEZZ. His melodic verses have us fixated on the impeccable use of harmonies as his vocal range tours us through reflective thoughts and pure emotion. Each lyrical motif emphasizes the difficulties he went through, but knowing that he came out the other side stronger than ever leaves us with a triumphant feeling that takes over our very being. Propelling us forward as we take in the instrumentation, both the emcee-like raps and the musical foundation coincide intimately. There’s the perfect amount of heart that pulses through the top-tier mix quality, and we’re able to pick up on the passion that’s shed into this record. Leaving us with a sense of anticipation as we wish to know more about the reflective artist, KWEZZ has us ready to embrace what’s next to come on this imaginative route of storytelling. Welcome to BuzzMusic KWEZZ, and congratulations on the release of your EP' Dark Clouds' and the lead single "Voices." What inspired you to lead with this song on the project? What statement would you like it to make? Thank you! I wanted to lead with this song because I think it's the most relatable. For me, I overthink about some things, so there's always that voice in my head that's listening to me overthink. The main point was to let people who are going through anything or feel the same way I do know that they're not alone & that the rainbow always shines after the storm. Could you please share a glimpse into what the creative process entailed when bringing this song to Life? Is this the formula that was followed for the rest of the songs on 'Dark Clouds?' When making "Voices," I was at a pretty low point at the time, so the perfect way to deal with everything was going on was to put it in a song. I have my home studio set up in my house & I didn't need to write it down because I had so much to say. But while creating the song & the project, I wanted to test what I could do with my vocals and see if I could keep getting better. The first two songs are more heartfelt and personal. Then it starts to get more hype because I have my good days too, and with those, I want people to know that after the dark clouds move away, light shines through. What has been your biggest lesson learned while creating and releasing this EP? I learned a lot actually about myself & Life. Mainly though, there are some things that people just won't understand, and that's fine & I learned to not give out my energy to unnecessary people/situations. If your listeners could take one thing away from your music, what would you like that to be? It's never going to be the same genre. One day I'll want to rap aggressively; the other, I might want to sing. Maybe I'll do both one day. The possibilities are endless. What can we anticipate hearing next? A new single called "Dragons" will release with a music video, which will only be my 3rd. It was supposed to be on "Dark Clouds," but I wanted to keep the project at six songs. So, there are many singles & Visual content for now, but my next project will probably be early/middle of 2022. instagram.com/therealkwezz twitter.com/therealkwezz

Fitting the true definition of R&B royalty, Cheyenne Elliott's ties to the music industry are rather extensive. Her grandmother is Dionne Warwick, and her cousin is the late Whitney Houston; even her father, David Elliott, is an accomplished vocalist and songwriter who co-wrote Luther Vandross' Grammy Award-winning hit, 'Here and Now.' Making her debut stage appearance at 9-years-old in front of a crowd of 10,000 fans at a Coney Island summer concert series, it has only continued to skyrocket for the budding artist. Returning with her most recent single, "Crash," we get to experience an acoustically charged modern-day single that tours us through the power of a lost romance. Coming to our speakers and screens with the sonic and visual pairing for this record, we immediately feel the intimacy cast upon us in a glorious way. The angelic timbres of Cheyenne Elliott take our minds to a vulnerable state of exploration as we're coerced into visiting memories of the past. Cradling our souls as she professes hers in a way that takes over the screen in the cinematic feature speaks to how this heartfelt power ballad dominates the sentiments we feel. Allowing us to embrace the wandering thoughts of our mind, Cheyenne Elliott has us hanging onto vivid imagery that accompanies the musical foundation in a triumphant manner. Seeing her thrive in the scenery where the visuals were filmed, the creative essence of each shot showcases Cheyenne Elliott in triumphant light. Leaving it all on the table as her liberation bears deja vu from a previous relationship, we feast on the tale of being remembered and cherished through themes of adoration. linktr.ee/CheyenneElliott

August Brand is an emerging hip-hop artist who has not only been singing since he was a young child but currently has engineered an eclectic variety of music styles that captures our hearts and souls. Inspired by chart-topping music artists such as Lil Nas X, Nicki Minaj, Cardi B, and Zoe Wees, August Brand wants to make an impact and show his audience that anyone can make a difference no matter their ethnicity and be successful. The dark yet buoyant energy hailing from an empowering release such as his latest single, "Battle," powerfully resonates with us. Lyrically the saturated croons shed have us simmering in a profound reality reflective of the battle in August Brand's mind. Taking us into an intricate world woven together with carefully crafted wording, the entirety of "Battle" has our minds grasping the intensity we feel through such an elusive vocal performance. Prevailing with written content yet tantalizing in its grace, August Brand is someone who tells elaborate stories in the songs he shares with the world. "Battle" being no exception, the dramatic quintessence places a much-needed force of conveyance on how we need to take this masterpiece in. Delving into a narrative custom to what he feels, the poignant nature of this record allows our deep sentiments to surface in one fell swoop. The thought-provoking foundation turns into a therapy session with August Brand. Leaving us to be cemented with who we are down to our core, that's the brilliance of August Brand's gravitational pull. Welcome to BuzzMusic, August Brand! Congratulations on this beautifully crafted single. How long did it take for you to create a record with such a deep impact? This record actually was a two-part series. I wrote the lyrics/melody back in high school in 2010, it was the musical genius of Angel Lacencia who created the music to beautifully sync with the heart-wrenching lyrics which was created in 2020. We're sure listeners everywhere can take away their own message from this song, but we're interested in what it means to you as the creator? Well, this song is so very personal to me. It was written at a time when I was battling depression, self-identity/expression, and suicidal thoughts. I couldn’t wrap my head around my sexuality, my worth, or my pride. So I put my emotions to paper. I wanted this song to reflect what was going on inside my mind and heart. In the song, you could hear the repeating motif "It's between me and myself" which I wanted to be a reflection of the echo in my head of insanity. I wanted to also show that it's all so personal and the "Battle" I was facing with myself. Throughout the whole idea, I wanted those audience members who relate to knowing they can find peace in letting their feelings and emotions out in a healthy and honest way as I did with music. This song is one (my) journey among many. How does "Battle" speak into your life present day? Do you find your mindset has evolved since the time of writing it? As a 28-year-old man who has defined his own success through his work and music, I have found that this song speaks to my subconscious. I think every time I have a moment of weakness or doubt within myself, I listen to the song to reestablish the fact that through music, love, and the grace of my family I became better. To answer the latter part of the question I believe it shows that old pain can create beauty. Even in music. How does a project of this caliber set you apart from other artists? This might sound cheesy but I don’t compare myself to other artists. I believe that’s where I will fail. I want to be an artist that shows authenticity, rawness, an artist who is flawed. I want my fans to see musicians are human. We can grow, be different, be honest, and be successful. I just don’t think comparing oneself to others is beneficial to me. I will say that inspiration from others can help nurture the ideas of musical ability and growth. I think that remains true with my music. My sound changes from song to song. that’s why I do music. Is the journey I take myself on alongside my fans. instagram.com/augustbrandx

Visitor is back with the genre-bending single "Feeding the Dark" off their newly released EP 'Greetings From Titan.' The gritty, melodic rock track aims to pull listeners and engulf them in their senses as the Detroit, Michigan, foursome combines rock, metal, grunge, and even a hint of Motown to create their distinct sound. Leaving us in the impactful essence of this intricate soundscape, we pick up on the propelling sonic voyage of the toll that depression plays in the lives of some. Touring us through a thoughtful medley of lyrics that deeply resonate with us, "Feeding the Dark" reiterates a narrative of self-doubt and self-sabotage plaguing the delicate hues of the mind and further paralyzing our ability to move forward in life. Soaking our ears in a polished universe yet amplified in the electric tenors performed, we can't help but latch onto the colossal drum patterns and chugging guitar riffs that drive the rhythmic bassline in progression. Add in the lead vocalist's heartrending timbres, and we get a rather direct experience through the production, which is courtesy of Chuck Alkazian at Pearl Sound Studios. Admiring each peak and valley that's given to us in this masterpiece, "Feeding the Dark" gives us an authentic representation of mental health and the state of mind we embrace during times more difficult. Composed of Randy Gray (lyrics and vocals), Steve Dombroski (guitar), Dustin Buckley (bass), and William Pierce (drums), Visitor has us overstaying our welcome with an empowering composition as such. Congratulations on the release of your powerful single, "Feeding the Dark." Touching on mental health when it needs to be significantly focused on is so appreciated these days! Was there a particular moment or story that brought this theme to life? It was more of a collection of moments and stories for all of us. With this record, we wanted to take a much more honest approach to songwriting. In the past, we sort of wanted listeners to be able to figure out the story and find their own meanings in our songs. That's not to say that with this record we said to ourselves "this song is going to be about this, and that song we be about that", but it was more about getting to the core of what we were feeling, and getting that idea across. We were each battling our own demons in various ways. When the music came together, this idea of battling the darkness we were all feeling, but giving ourselves permission to sort of "let go" of feelings or experiences that were no longer serving us became pretty powerful. Could you please share a glimpse into what the creative process looked like when bringing this record to life? Does this tend to be the template followed? Yeah, absolutely. The songs on this record started out on the guitar. I (Steve) will usually write the initial guitar progressions based on things that I'm feeling. From there, I'll begin to map out the story that I believe the music is trying to tell by coming up with the other parts of the song. I'll usually put together a loose song structure that I'll take to Randy, Dustin, and Billy to start to work on. The guys are great at helping me to take these parts and elevate them to a really great level. So after we've collectively built the music of the song, we'll provide recordings for Randy to start putting melodies and lyrics down. That's the typical initial template. From there, the song will have a great overall initial structure that we'll take into the studio to record and put the final touches on. On this record, we worked with Chuck Alkazian at Pearl Sounds Studios to help produce it, and he was able to provide that final shimmer to make these songs sound MASSIVE. What advice do you have for those struggling with the messaging you address in this single? First and foremost, know your resources. If you're feeling in distress, please call the Suicide Prevention Hotline at 800-273-8255. Outside of that, there's a lyric Randy wrote for this song that is incredibly powerful...and I think gave us all a bit more hope. In the chorus, he sings "so when the night cries, just let the morning rise". Things can absolutely get really dark for all of us at some point in our lives, but when you're at your darkest, if you can find that power to allow another day to rise, you may just find healing on the other side that. Another piece of advice came from Dustin that has battled depression his whole life, and that is to try to keep doing the things that you're used to doing when you're feeling your best. That could be gardening, exercising, playing music, seeing friends/family, etc. Depression is so much about inaction and not wanting or having the energy for anything or anyone. But, if you can force yourself to continue to do the things that you're used to, that has helped some of us. What does your audience have in store from the rest of the EP? The next single "Intheend" (pronounced In the End) will be a heavy-weight hitter. Whereas "Feeding the Dark" was about healing, this one is about finding strength and power in one's self. Living your life and shining through it all. From there we get as political as we'll probably ever get in Pendulum, and Unspoken is just a fun rocker. We've gotten really great feedback on them when we've tested them for live audiences and we're so thrilled for everyone to hear them. instagram.com/visitormusic

Hailing from Madison, Wisconsin, songwriter, rapper, and producer Marcus Porter teams up with rapper/vocalist Juicee Monroe for their inspirational and lively single, "Glow." Marcus Porter's hip-hop and r&b stylings were once created for fun, but after seeing incredible success and traction, Porter knew music creation was for him. He uses alternative, backpack rap, and hints of r&b to bring his songs to life. Marcus Porter has performed at numerous intimate venues with packed crowds, one of which was at the Lifest stage. Now pairing up with rapper and vocalist Juicee Monroe for their sweet and uplifting single, "Glow," the song holds this certain motivational tone that's truly compelling. Marcus Porter offers a similar energetic and exciting flow to that of Chance the Rapper, especially in this single. Juicee Monroe's magnetic and confident bars are the perfect mid-way pick-me-up. Hitting play on the single, "Glow (feat. Juicee Monroe)," we're greeted with Marcus Porter's sole vocals alongside a twinkling keyboard melody that sets the song's inspirational and chilling tone. As Marcus Porter hops into his first verse, he begins to soak our speakers in confidence as he explains the many abundant blessings that life has given. Before we know it, Juicee Monroe begins to make her charismatic vocal appearance while reminding us that her hunger for life is everlasting. She continues to wow us with her boss energy, closing her verse with nothing but poise. As Marcus Porter makes his way around the hook one last time alongside an honest outro verse, he closes the song with vast optimism and hope. Don't be afraid to "Glow" with Marcus Porter and Juicee Monroe's latest single, now available on all digital streaming platforms. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Marcus Porter. We admire the inspirational and uplifting approach you've taken with your latest single, "Glow (feat. Juicee Monroe)." What inspired you to create such a motivational and honest track? Thank you for having me! Glow was created during the beginning of Covid. It was tough with all the things going on in the world and I felt I needed to be relatable but also spread some of my light. Speaking of honesty, was it easy for you to be so open and real when writing your bars for "Glow (feat. Juicee Monroe)"? What was your songwriting process like? Yes, it was easy, to be honest on Glow with my bars because I always write about my life and wanna give relatable substance we’re humans I wanna be able to connect. The process for Glow started with me making the beat. I started writing my verses first. Then my chorus came as I was humming to myself while playing with my verses and Glow started to form itself; it just was missing one thing, Juciee. Why did you want to collaborate with Juicee Monroe for "Glow (feat. Juicee Monroe)"? What does she bring to the table that the track needed? I wanted to collaborate with Juciee because I work with her in the studio all the time recording her songs so I wanted to collab, also her work ethic is amazing and she’s just all-around dope. On Glow, Juciee brings her story with a dope verse for people who felt like her as well and she’s being honest about her ups and downs too. What did you want your listeners to take away from the motivational single, "Glow (feat. Juicee Monroe)"? What do you hope to leave them with? What I want listeners to take away from Glow is that it’s about finding your light in the darkness and spreading your light to others as you continue to be bright. I hope to leave listeners with a song to play anytime their light feels dim so they can recharge it and keep going and also share it with others who have a bright light and relate. instagram.com/marcusp90

Manhattan native, singer-songwriter, and pop/r&b recording artist Hunter Blair Ambrose returns with her highly-anticipated 17-track debut album, 'Scorpio Season.' Known as one of the most captivating new voices in the underground pop music scene, Hunter Blair Ambrose never fails to wow an audience. We experienced that first hand through her velvety melisma and powerful vocals on the debut EP, 'Scorpio Rising.' Now, we have the honor of featuring Ambrose's debut 17-track album, 'Scorpio Season.' Beginning our venture into the jam-packed album, we're met with the introductory track, "Baby Goodbye," which opens the project with hazy pop sonics that set the mysterious and intense tone. As a pulsating 80s synth begins to pound through our speakers, Hunter Blair Ambrose begins to passionately sing of a relationship's demise and let someone go who was once close to her heart. We've probably said this before, but Ambrose has a certain vocal tonality and confidence as Ms. Lady Gaga, and it's utterly captivating. Onto another mysterious and hazy intro with track number two, "Right Now," Hunter Blair Ambrose makes her passionate and lustful vocal appearance while setting the scene with the utmost lustful and desirous lyricism. As the pop drums and synths begin to tap through our speakers' low end, we jump into the thrilling hook where a modern club-like electro-pop beat drops and gets us in the groove. As Hunter Blair Ambrose makes her way around the hook, she's followed by a contemporary and electronic arrangement that keeps the song's passion ignited. Onto a highly anticipated track, "Skin Deep (feat. Ye Ali)" was one we were definitely excited to hear. This time around, Hunter Blair Ambrose jumps into more of a sensual and gripping r&b vibe while the song opens with a bubbly synth arrangement alongside snappy hip-hop drums. Listening to Hunter Blair Ambrose's smooth vocals, she continues to expand on wondering if someone's truly down for her while expressing her devotion for them. Around the second verse, Ye Ali slowly drifts in with the utmost poise while adding another lustful and sultry layer to this sweet tune. Upping the energy with track number four, "Divison," this song opens with an introspective feel through tender piano melodies and quick drum breaks. As Hunter Blair Ambrose makes her way in, she starts to tug on our heartstrings with vulnerable lyrics that explain her inner confusion and turmoil. We adore the tapping drum breaks in this song; they may or may not represent the increasing heart rate when riddled with anxiety. Ambrose continues to plead for one more night with someone special, and the haunting sonics keep the emotion at a high. Funny enough, the next single is entitled "Anxious," which begins with a melancholy and atmospheric r&b soundscape through haunting synth melodies and the slowest of drum breaks. Hunter Blair Ambrose's achingly beautiful and honest lyrics yearn for someone's attention and love while expressing her desire to be by their side. This song is wildly vulnerable, and it truly helps us get to know the depth of Ambrose's emotional creativity. She has such a way with words and sets delicate lyrical scenes that suck the air right out of the room. The moment we've all been waiting for, hitting play on the album's title track, "Scorpio Season," the song softly begins with a dreamy electronic soundscape shimmering with the sweetest sonics. As Hunter Blair Ambrose begins to sing of a troubled relationship and wants to navigate her way through, she encourages her partner to open their mind while letting them know it's her season to thrive. There's no getting past this sultry and driven Scorpio, and Ambrose makes that incredibly clear throughout the entire album thus far. Upping the groove with track number seven, "Not Enough," the song opens with psychedelic and distorted guitar arrangement that later drops into a groovy and modern r&b vibe. Hunter Blair Ambrose continues to declare her love and devotion for someone while being sick of being caught up on them; she can never seem to get enough of their every way. This song is the perfect modern r&b ballad; Hunter Blair Ambrose expresses not only her vulnerable emotions but her intimate and sensual ones too. We must mention Ambrose's heavenly vocal harmonies that truly feed the soul. Soothing the vibe with the eighth track, "Too Much," this song definitely offers more of an upbeat pop atmosphere through the upbeat electro-pop drums and the gleaming synths that pour through our speakers. We adore the honesty of this song; Hunter Blair Ambrose reminds us of the difficulties of overthinking situations and being trapped in her mind with her racing thoughts. The song is extremely relatable, and the engaging pop sonics perfectly enhance the troubling emotions of Hunter Blair Ambrose's delicate lyrical content. Onto a familiar tune and also the album's halfway point, "Alone Together," we've had the pleasure of featuring this song a few months back. This time around, experiencing it with the entire 'Scorpio Season' album brings a whole other level of meaning. We've heard Ambrose sing of longing for someone's love, pure seduction, and anxious thoughts, and this song seems to encapsulate all of those themes. It's an incredibly groovy and uplifting song that tugs on our heartstrings with Hunter Blair Ambrose's relatable and honest lyricism. Moving onto the album's second half, we're met with the lushness and ambiance of the tenth track, "Backwards," which kicks off with the deepest r&b production that screams artists like The Weeknd and Summer Walker. Hunter Blair Ambrose takes our breath away as her airy melisma and powerful chest voice while she continues to serenade us with lyrics about falling backward on her life path and feeling stuck in an emotional place. Hunter Blair Ambrose jumps into a quick hip-hop-like flow on the bridge to up the song's energy while taking us around the hook one last time. Drifting into track number eleven, "Self Control," this song takes on more of a nostalgic r&b feel through the hazy synth arrangements, organic piano melodies, and snappy drum breaks. Hunter Blair Ambrose quickly jumps in and commands our attention while expressing her devotion for someone and longing for them to be by her side. She sings of the lack of self-control she faces when it comes to someone special, and we're truly impressed with the relatable and passionate themes Hunter Blair Ambrose has brought to the table so far. Increasing the intensity and emotion with track number twelve, "26(teen)," the song opens with a haunting piano melody and quick hip-hop drums alongside Hunter Blair Ambrose's soothing and powerful vocal stylings. This song feels like a vulnerable piece about realization, coming to terms with someone's wrong idea of her, and not wanting to waste any more time as her peaking adulthood is on the rise. We truly appreciate Hunter Blair Ambrose's honest lyrics in this piece; it's like a raw page of her diary that helps us get to know her that much more. Track number thirteen takes us to faraway places. "Psycho Summer" kicks into gear with a peaceful synth melody that quickly drops into a delicate drum arrangement and Hunter Blair Ambrose's patient lyrics. As she continues waiting on someone, thoughts of losing them continue to overpower her mind while opening up about her lonesome summer. Hunter Blair Ambrose's vocals in this piece are otherwordly; she takes us by surprise with her velvety melisma that's as enchanting as a fatal mermaid song calling us from the depths of the ocean. Firing up our speakers with the fourteenth track, "Gone," this song powerfully opens with a groaning bass-like synth that melts through our speakers with a haunting, heated, and mysterious vibe. Hunter Blair Ambrose begins to vocalize her deepest emotions regarding the love she holds for someone who did her dirty while making her way to the cathartic hook. As the sonics lighten with emotion, Hunter Blair Ambrose jumps into her falsetto while coming to terms that the love she once cherished won't be returning any time soon. This song feels like a release of pent-up emotions, especially with the overall dark and haunting approach. With Scorpio season comes the month of "November," and Hunter Blair Ambrose perfectly sums up the chilled fall month in this piece. The song opens with a downtempo electro-pop sonic arrangement that paves the way for Ambrose's honest and emotional vocals. Listening to her soothing melodies, Ambrose dives into her thoughts once again and reminds someone that come November, the only thing on their mind will be Ms. Hunter Blair Ambrose. Although this track is incredibly emotional, there's a sense of empowerment that comes with Ambrose's confident performance. Slowing it down with track number fifteen, "Goodbye (4 Now)," this song begins with a distant and chime-like keyboard melody that sets the song's melancholy and chilling tone. As the downtempo r&b drums begin to tap through the song, Hunter Blair Ambrose makes her passionate vocal appearance while thanking someone for the love they gave and wishing them well on their journey. This song is another page torn out of Ambrose's diary; it perfectly encapsulates those turbulent and violent emotions that overtake our minds when love gets the best of us. Reaching the final and outro track of the album, "I Get Lonely," Hunter Blair Ambrose decided to end the album with more of a lively and upbeat sonic approach while expressing her emotions of loneliness and desire. We adore this song's hook; it's wildly catchy and perfectly showcases Hunter Blair Ambrose's rhythmic vocal abilities that ride the beat with authority, even when she's singing such a delicate message. We truly appreciate this honest and dreamy outro track; it closes the entire album on a note of hope, reflection, and pure Scorpio passion. Experience 'Scorpio Season' the way it was intended, with Hunter Blair Ambrose's debut 17-track album, now available on all digital streaming platforms. Congratulations on releasing your highly-anticipated 17-track debut album, 'Scorpio Season.' When did you begin creating songs for this album? How long was it in the making? It was quite a journey to bring this album to life. When I started writing the music that ended up being part of this album, I had no intention of creating an album at all. It all began when I wrote the first single I ever released, "Right Now" way back in January 2017- almost 5 years ago. I had just dropped out of college where I was pursuing a degree in music and one night, the song just randomly hit me. As time went on, the Scorpio Season concept began to develop, and I just kept writing more and more songs over the years. I preceded the album with an EP, called "Scorpio Rising" which I worked on from 2018-2020, and then immediately started writing the remaining bulk of "Scorpio Season" in the fall of 2020. It's apparent that your Scorpio placements play a prominent role in your life. What inspired you to create both an EP and your debut album, 'Scorpio Season,' revolving around the passionate and driven sign? I think it is incorrectly assumed that the reason both the EP and the album bear the name Scorpio and that the sign has been a huge theme of the music is because it's my zodiac sign. But I'm actually a Taurus. The reason Scorpio and the traits of a Scorpio play such an important role is that both projects were directly inspired by a failed relationship of mine and the story of how it fell apart. We met on my former love interest's birthday, which is in mid-November, making him a Scorpio. The title is a reference to the inception of the relationship that went on to have an enormous impact on my life and also the events that unfolded through that fall that we began our story together. Out of all the 17 tracks on 'Scorpio Season,' is there a song that means the most to you? Which song was the hardest to create in terms of emotion? Every song is important to the overall story I was telling on this album. "Scorpio Season" is certainly a concept album that tells the story of that relationship from its exciting ending to its bitter end. But, there are certain songs that are more emotionally charged than others. Some of the more emotionally poignant tracks would include Division, Goodbye (4 Now), Gone, November, and Alone Together. In terms of the songs that were the most emotionally challenging to record and perform, my cover of I Get Lonely was particularly gut-wrenching, even though I didn't write it. But Goodbye (4 Now) and Alone Together particularly stand out to me as having the most heartbreaking lyrics. Did you work with any producers or engineers when formulating the 'Scorpio Season' album? Who helped navigate the album's sonics and production? This album would not have happened and would not have come together in the way that it did without my entire personnel. My producers, Jason Strong and Jannek Zechner, have both been instrumental to my growth as a musician, and an artist throughout this process. There is no one else I would've rather made this album with and they both played a key role in both Scorpio Rising and Scorpio Season. Jason served as the executive producer of nearly every track across both projects, as well as a co-writer of a few tracks such as November, Self Control, 26 (teen), Goodbye (4 Now), etc. Jannek Zechner, also produced all of my vocals and engineered most of both projects. Randy Merrill, who is one of the best mastering engineers in the world (engineered "Chromatica" by Lady Gaga, "Positions, Thank U Next" by Ariana Grande, "Folklore" by Taylor Swift" to name a few.) served as the mastering engineer for every song on "Scorpio Season" I owe so much to every single member of my personnel for making the sonics and atmosphere of this album come to life. They are all incredible talents. What did you want to make the listener feel and experience with 'Scorpio Season'? What impact did you want the album to make on your audience? I wanted to allow the listener to feel like they are immediately taken into the sonic universe of a late-night, fall-time, dark, lust-filled romance that I very much used as the blueprint of this album. By adjusting the album's sequencing just right, I wanted the listener to feel like they are fully experiencing the beginning, middle, and end of the relationship that I wrote this music about, and that they can recognize and relate to the emotions that one goes through in every phase of the classic tale of a romance that starts out exhilarating but eventually falls apart and takes a dark turn. I hope that it is a poignant and stark listening experience that mirrors and mimics some of the key traits of the sign of Scorpio itself: passion, mystery, intensity, transformation, and rebirth. Instagram Twitter