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Coming to us from North of the Border, Emerald B is an upcoming Canadian Singer/ Songwriter. Her comforting approach to music aims to uplift her listeners as she imparts her sentimental wisdom to her adoring listeners. Having played across numerous venues in Ontario, Canada, and the USA, Emerald B is putting out memorable content that strikes a chord with listeners nationwide. Her latest release "Almost" is a stirring testament to her ability to create emotional journies through her vivid and descriptive lyrics. "Almost" starts with a cascading trickle of tones that fall over the listener like droplets of rain. A sentimental piano plays whimsical notes as Emerald B joins the soundscape. Emerald's voice is bathed in light and predilection as she sings verses of what could have been. "Almost" is the story of a relationship that should have been, but just didn't formulate the way it was supposed to. Emerald B creates a moving lyrical storyboard throughout "Almost" that takes us on a cinematic journey, pulling back the curtain on a relationship struggling to start and its inevitable dissolve. "Almost" features a stealth rhythmic flow that ads a seductive RnB edge while Emerald B puts forth an emotional ballad. We loved "Almost," and we know you will too. Listen to "Almost" here. Hello Emerald B and welcome back to BuzzMusic. We loved your latest release "Almost." Can you tell us a bit about the song and the meaning behind it? "Almost" is about falling in love but, just not knowing if you’re ready for a relationship yet. The time will come and you will realize when you’re ready. What made you want to create music and launch your own career? I loved it so much and it is my passion. Music helps me so much and it helps me express my feelings. I also want to inspire other people and help them. Who are some of your musical influences that have contributed to your overall sound? Tori Kelly writes very inspirational music and I love her vocal range. My vocal teacher has helped me so so much to improve my voice. "Almost" does a wonderful job of creating a vivid storyline through the lyrics. What does the songwriting process look like for you? So I and my mom write together and we try to write about stories in my life. Then we edit until I like how it flows. Next, I create chords that sound good on the piano. I write everything down and send them to my producer (Jan Jansen). We then record at Cleveland Sound Lab in Toronto! What's keeping you inspired throughout 2020? My parents, fans, friends, and family all keep me inspired and they are helping to keep me stay positive. instagram.com/emerald_b_music emeraldbmusic.strikingly.com #BUZZMUSIC

His saturated croon, the soulful harmonizations in the intro, and the blissful production from Stoney Dudebro present a night with K-Young like a pure utopia on "Night 2 Remember." "Night 2 Remember" feels like a habitual texture from LA where we can layout sun-facing and vibe to the weight in the duo's trendy invention. Of course, The video accompanying the single serves as confirmation for the collaborator's real-time night-out, which has secured the contour and shade of their music a sensual neon-tinge and hovering afterglow. "I got some kush we could roll up, let's get lit shorty, I got a pool on the roof lets take a dip," K-Young sings in the chorus; envious words for anyone to hear as our protagonists flaunt the foreshadowings of their THC-infused junctures. Even as explicit as it presents, Night 2 Remember still melts through all the contemporary in the feeling it gives our psyche—like an epicure of sensual seasonings. There's a rawness in his flow and voice as Stoney blazons, "It's time to roll up, I know we feeling vibes, and god damn I love this Cali life," while he cruises—back seats packed with ladies—in his high-life luxury car. This is his attractive offer as he persuades any doubters to reconsider questioning and to witness his artistry as he unplugs and gets lit throughout this masterful production. Of the many sensuous not-so-underground concoctions emerging from isolation, a collaboration connecting K-Young and Stoney Dudebro definitely land largely in the cognizance score for what makes a laid back vibing hit. Their newest video production on Night 2 Remember, still feels beyond composure in the best regards to this effect, and we're still collecting ourselves as the track replays. Thank you for being with us at BuzzMusic Stoney. What was it like filming this video with K-Young? That night must have been momentous for both of you, right? It definitely looked like lots of fun. It was a dope night full of vibes for sure. Pulling up at a mansion in the Hollywood Hills was a vibe and getting to see the sunset over LA was incredible. Lots of trees, pretty women, great views, and great vibes. How did you facilitate collaborating with K-Young on this single? Who reached out to who's direct messages, or was this a chance encounter of different sorts? I recruited K.Young for this track. My boy Mr. Kooman made the beat and it had a sexy soundtrack type vibe and K. Young has been making R&B hits for well over a decade. I've been following K. Young and his former counterpart Yung Berg, now known as Hitmaka the Billboard dominating producer since they were known as "The Dream Team" back in the day. We linked at the studio in LA and the vibes just started flowing. We had the track laid down in about 2 hours and then my boy Adrian just had to fine-tune the mix. You encourage your audience to "vibe and out and open their minds" on your Spotify. What did you want to express through the video accompaniment and included motifs found throughout Night 2 Remember to inspire others to pursue their passions? Don't be afraid to be yourself and bring your visions to life. In the studio, I told K. Young about the vision I had for the video and less than 90 days later we coordinated all the pieces and parts and made it a reality. The power of speaking self into existence can surprise you. Believe in yourself. The only thing you can't do is what you tell yourself you can't do. Do you feel you have grown as an artist since collaborating with different maestros in the Hip-Hop industry—and it's surrounding counterparts? Oh yeah for sure... I'm constantly working to improve my technique and sound; and when I get around other skilled artists who have been doing it for a long time it brings out the best in me. Rise to the occasion if you will. What can fans anticipate to hear next from you? Working on the next project. Got some new songs recorded and going to be releasing new singles for the duration of 2020. Looking for ya boy Stoney to be very active in the 2nd half of 2020. I've been grinding in silence during this 'Rona crap. instagram.com/stoneydudebro facebook.com/stoneydudebro #BUZZMUSIC

DaVinci Love Garrett, also known as XON3R, is endeavoring to quietly influence the state of your mind and shift it into the more vibey corner spaces that his rap music occupies. Alongside a dark grit and ominous tone, he's exploring the more creative, bass-boosted, eerie feeling flow that's sweeping the music industry, in and around the boundaries of Lil Peep, Suicide Boys, Billie Eilish, and Juice WRLD—amongst others that he's listed as influences. XON3R breaks the sensitive barrier some SoundCloud artists hide behind in genial hooks and opulence—and despite these outside contributions—shows able in his talent darkness and enigma as his whispers and meanders over skittering 32nd notes. Here, his latest single "SafeHouse Baby" is a hammering banger, which operates under the machinery of his chorus, as he reminisces about the transitions of his past. "My dude said I was a trap house baby soon as got out the trap house," he pounds before continuing, "I went and found me some hustlers, and then I learned their row." Here, XON3R imparts a hovering new-school vibe that achieves potency through his use of dynamic samples, as he divulges on the perspectives of his hustling days. All around him, he encounters the struggles of reality and conquers them with the immediate and knock-out effect of "SafeHouse Baby." Listen to "SafeHouse Baby" here. Being from Waukegan, Illinois, do you feel your home town has imparted some of its cultures into your music as you grow from year to year as an artist? My hometown has impacted me a lot and has shown me to push hard as I grow. Seeing the things I’ve seen and done the things I’ve done has both scarred and helped me during this journey, during this life process. Being able to transition my thoughts, fears, & struggles into my music has been a great help, Music is my rehab & my past makes me. What were the key emotions you tried to weave into the feeling and impact of this track? Potent Planet has the most streams on Spotify surpassing my other tracks, I feel the reason being is because there’s a lot of emotion on that track, going through hard times u tend to turn to a better feeling and that better feeling may be frowned on by a lot but also used by most. All I’m saying is lose yourself before you find yourself. How do you fuel the darker and more ominous textures that you incorporate into your productions? It's hard to fuel what’s already been fueled but the more gasoline u add to the fire the farther u feel away from yourself, u never fully click with other individuals but you play the game as if it was chess. You bring your thoughts and visions alive through video production. If you can touch a few souls through production you already making a difference. Through each production release you will see bits and pieces of me, you will then start to understand me little by little. What really gets you moving and inspired, as summer comes to a close and we embark and a new musical quarter of the year? My inspiration is the need to let the world hear new original music that taps into one's mindset and helps them through their current vibe. I want to inspire those who struggle with finding their sound. It’s ok to be who you are it’s ok to be judged, your willingness to want to win, & your hard work & dedication should inspire you to keep moving, you have a goal to reach don’t stop until you reach it. What has been keeping you inspired this year? The voices in my head keep me inspired, my drive inspires me, the lost loved ones that are now tiny conscious voices keep me pushing. What doesn’t kill you will beat you down but it’s up to you to stay strong. I’m fueled and I’m charging every win and ever loss to the game, the game won’t break me. I’m physically mentally and emotionally prepared. instagram.com/xon3r_baby #BUZZMUSIC

The freshest offering from the songwriter, producer, and engineer Matt Wheatley exudes contagious confidence under the EP self-titled single, "Here We Go," and it feels like a Pop anthem blessing. The project manifests Matt Wheatley's ability to hone in on his experienced hearing. Being born legally blind, this empowering artist's recent solo debut is trendsetting in spirit: dishing up a means of support for the present and strength by trusting yourself in following every inventive beat that Matt intends. Moving us with his immersive production, he focuses on themes about unity, the belief in one's self, and an uplifting rallying chorus. The song's intro immerses you in a striking mix of innovative rhythm that utilizes an earthy tone with sauntering piano chords brightening the ride as an unflinching hook grabs hold of you immediately. "When I see the edge, I won't look down, because you'll never fly if your feet don't leave the ground," he sings out in the pre-chorus, "Here we go!". The thunderous crisp downbeat lands healthy in your chest as the chorus delivers a well-needed rush of dopamine while the broad expanses of this song stretch out and hug our ears firmly. "Into the world, I know, no waiting for tomorrow," Matt sings, elegantly occupying the center of the track. "One foot in front of the other." "Here we go! Here we go!" rumbling on as he sings with conviction, determination, and an unrestricted display of uplifting rally: the tremendous drums and a wash of heavily synth leads can't be missed here. " No fear, I'm clear, I'm steering with my eyes closed, don't need no map on this road," he blazons on as the song ends. No other beauty is as exposing and monumental as the perseverance an artist has with their craft and what it takes to keep moving forward. Here, Matt Wheatley takes both feet and walks ahead into the Pop Music Scene with a brilliant sheen of personality and mastery over his musical intrepidity. We're super excited to be featuring your single "Here We Go." Can you tell us how you made such an empowering song? What was that process like? "Here We Go" started with the idea of taking a leap of faith, for better or for worse.  I have some personal experience with doing exactly that.  And what I've learned in that process is that the regret of never trying far outweighs the fear of failure.  And that's kind of what Here We Go became about.  Taking that chance, seeking adventure, casting your fears aside for something greater.  It's the most freeing feeling you'll ever have by just letting go of fear.  I want to inspire that in others. Were there any insightful lessons you were aiming at highlighting throughout this production and is this something you feel is a place holder in the type of music you produce? The throughline of this EP I think is to "be inspired".  I wanted that to shine through on "Here We Go" and in all the songs on the EP for that matter.  With the current state of our world, I wanted to plant a flag that said "we are better if we simply choose to be".  As an artist, producer, and songwriter I thought if there's a message to hang my hat on, this one fits me. When did you know you wanted to make music your life long goal? Were there any key inspirations you can recall in your life that may have leaned you into musical things? I was always into music at an early age, but when I really knew I wanted it to be my life's work was at age 15.  Some of my best friends (who are still great friends of mine today) had decided to start a band and I showed up to their practice one evening.  I was simply drawn in like a moth to the flame watching them create something out of thin air all in unison.  I was just a writer up to that point, but they had used some lyrics I had written and put them to melody and music.  Once I saw those words jump off the paper into real life, I was all in. It was terrific featuring you here with us! Can you tell us a little bit more about the new upcoming EP? What kinds of things can we expect from a full Matt Wheatly five-song drop this summer? Absolutely!  The EP is set to drop July 31st, 2020.  It's the first release I've made as an artist in a couple of years and it feels like a breath of fresh air putting it out into the world.  I spent the last 18 months putting these songs together on my own in between working on several other artist projects, so it really became a labor of love for these songs that I'm excited are finally seeing the light of day.  What to expect from the EP?  Dancing in the grocery store lines when you hear it, turning your radio up to 30 on a sunny day when your favorite track comes on, and simply being inspired to be a better you (the listener) when you dig into it.  It's fun, it's anthemic, and it'll make you want to move. What has been keeping you inspired throughout 2020? 2020 has been tough for everyone really.  I'm no different.  But what keeps me inspired is focusing on the good.  There are people, amazing humans, that in spite of losing everything are finding a way to move forward in a positive way.  It's also easy for me to find inspiration for doing what I do when I talk each night with my four-year-old about what he dreams of being.  And it changes almost daily so it's fun to see and hear.  I want to not just tell him but show him that no matter what he chooses, he can do it. instagram.com/wheatleymusic facebook.com/wheatleymusic matthewawheatley.com #BUZZMUSIC

ellie d.'s "Bedtime" is the latest addition to the "four to the floor" trend showing up in indie-pop lately, but here, the mesmeric songstress reshapes the bias with her razor-sharp electro-infused sound. Becoming intimately acquainted with the room she's in, ellie d.'s performance in "Bedtime" diffuses amongst the mix's steamy textures. Backed by an edgy bass contouring the low-end, and a kick drum steady knocking each quarter, Ellie's vocal wanderings and cascading delays thrive amongst subtle widening pads. Among the standouts is a chugging guitar that stretches the width of the mix, synth pads that warble like glass cups, and a bass guitar that holds authority over the juicy center frequencies. It's got a distinctive saturation to it as if from a tube amp, generating heat as the four-strings vibrate. Opening with "Cause it's a little past bedtime now," ellie d. sounds comfortable in her feather brushed cantor, "and I'm watching tv on the couch, trying hard to tune the voice out, but I think I can get there." The enigmatic spattering of indiscernible echos is reminiscent of psychedelia while the accompanying drum cut through without sounding over-sampled. The song soon turns itself on its side for a moment of release. In the transitional bridge, Ellie's vocals are introduced into what feels like a room that just lost gravity—dropping us into an entirely new experience before landing us back down healthy for the final moments. This sing provokes ellie d.'s most penetrating and unforgiving groove since her last proceedings in The City. In most ways, it seems to infiltrate a more different region of our hearts: reacquainting some vibe to all the neglected spots left vacant of sonic seasonings. Here, ellie d. follows all her creative impulses and lets the instrumentation enhance and facilitate the texture she achieves: a sunset cruize down an adjacent beach-facing backroad, bass-rumbling as it wavers throughout the top-down car. Everything seems to flow and blend together well to create the vibe on "Bedtime," how did you manage to create such an appealing groove and texture with your performance? So awesome you think that, thanks! This song started out as a simple progression on my guitar and very mellow, almost like a lullaby. Then Justin, my amazing producer, came in and brought it to life. We added a bit more groovy guitar and bass to really move the track along and make it flow. I wanted to keep the integrity of my original demo with the dream-like feel but make it pop a bit more. It sort of blends a few emotions and vibes into one which is exactly how I was feeling when I wrote the song…down at times but also hopeful! If you could pick the best scenery and mindset for your music to be enjoyed in, where would that be, and could you describe the experience in a few words? Ooo I like this question! My music usually stems from times I’m alone and introspective. I would love my music to be enjoyed in places where thoughts run wild and you can let loose and enjoy yourself at the same time. I think the mindset and message in a lot of my music are that sometimes life is hard and shitty, but try to pull the positives out and stay hopeful. Whether it’s driving at sunset, with the windows down, the wind blowing, or late at night in your room reflecting on your experiences, I hope people can find something in each of my songs that relates to what they have been through. What fuels your talent and enthusiasm for infusing fresh approaches to every single that you release this year? I just love experiencing the process of creating a song from the very start, bare-bones, to where it ends up in the end. It really excites me! I think I’m constantly feeling different emotions or thoughts every day, so I always feel like there is something new to write about. Sometimes I am feeling sassy or positive and sometimes I am feeling down and that’s ok. It’s human nature. I also don’t really write with a specific sound or genre in mind, I just see how I am inspired that day. I want my music and sound to be versatile. I have actually been experimenting a lot during the quarantine. Are you planning any collaborations or live streams for the end of the summer? I will be doing an IG Live acoustic set next week! Still figuring out the exact time, but I will be posting about it on my Instagram! Other than that, no set plans because everything is constantly changing! I am working on a lot of new music, I will say that. Some for my artist project and some collabs with other writers and producers. I know the world is crazy right now, but music is keeping me somewhat grounded and giving me an outlet to channel my thoughts into. instagram.com/elliedubin #BUZZMUSIC

Hailing from Minneapolis is the intensifying Rap artist Anuahyahu. Anuahyahu has a clear and direct sense of energy. He's the kind of artist that knows what he wants in his sound, and darts toward it. Pursuing the music industry as an independent artist, Anuahyahu is taking the scene at full swing, showing off his natural elements in the best way possible with recent releases. Anuahyahu debuted a new track titled "Drip." Anuahyahu does a great job with his flow, as he makes it so incredibly apparent that he has a natural sense of delivery. Although the track feels more underground, Anuahyahu highlights some areas of the song with a more fast-paced production. "Drip" feels elusive and packed with confidence, which easily emulates itself onto you, and soon it can be quite easy to find yourself immersed into the poise of the track. Anuahyahu has a great sense of wordplay, something we found to be very prominent once we honed in on the tracks verses and the meaning it pulsed. All in all, "Drip" was the right kind of track to establish the right sort of late-night vibe, and Anuahyahu will have an eye kept on him for future new music. How did the writing and recording process undergo "Drip"? Were there any moments within the creative process that you felt challenged artistically? The thing that’s interesting about “Drip” is the fact that I used 3 different flows, but all came together as one cohesive piece. I was still experimenting with flows over double-time beats while being able to maintain lyrical integrity as I like to call it. Being that the times have changed, there's less boom-bap and more trap production type beats, it sort of forces you to adapt when beat shopping. But it also enables me to add a new style of flow to my bag. What kind of mood were you hoping to put onto your listeners with "Drip"? What kind of response are you looking to receive amongst your listeners with this particular track of yours? I really just wanted to create a fun track people could get fly, stunt, and dance too. Something that boosts your mood. I also wanted to maintain being lyrical over a trap Beat. I would hope people receive it the same way people receive a future or drake track, You know? the sum you turn up too. Were there any elements to "Drip" that you feel contrasted from other tracks you've released so far? In the past, I’ve been more lyrical and conscious, but with “Drip” it’s more of a modern sound, with my twist on it. Let's talk more about the music scene in Minneapolis! How do you feel the inspiration you extract from your community aids in your current artistry? I feel very plugs into the culture in Minneapolis, not to mention I come from the roughest side and I’m authentic, I’m mean I’m actually born and raised here. Went to some of the same schools as Prince, and even seen him in person out and about at Seven Sushi Lounge. There are plenty of dope rappers here, but don’t get the shine they deserve. Your dealing with racial bias, and for the most part major local platforms that don’t wanna promote the black artist. Some of the same things Prince dealt with coming up are the same things that still happen today. For example, you might not be able to book certain venues, etc...   I’m a breath of North Minneapolis, and as much as you hear my spiritual influence, you also hear about, drugs, stick, blicks, ARs, and Ks because that’s the environment. Especially after the riots, and the death of George Floyd, North Minneapolis became a war zone. Allot of business got burned down not to mention the police station over the south in relation to that racist cop.   And once word of the Klan was coming up to try and cause more problems brothers took a stand. The same cats that usually were deemed criminal were the same ones protecting the hood, and black business. I applaud, and I’m proud of my brothers, and sisters standing during that time. Because with the police standing down. Shit got real, quick. It was all types of Artillery out there but more importantly, the hood banded together to defend our Neighborhood while police straight up told residents they weren’t coming. What are you doing to stay inspired while creating music throughout these tough times? I'm always checking out music from different regions, and sometimes even countries as long as it connects and I can understand it lol.  Minneapolis of course, and my experiences I’ve had living here. Also seeing other independent artists do they thing motivates me as well to keep pushing forward. instagram.com/anuahyahu facebook.com/Anuahyahu anuahyahu.com #BUZZMUSIC

Los Angeles native Jackie Foster has been crafting personable singles that are able to lift spirits up and bring a certain kind of perk to listeners' days. If you aren't already familiar with Jackie Foster's work while she appeared on 2018's The Voice, then you should prepare yourself for what you're about to experience. Jackie Foster gives ambitious creations that easily lift up spirits and feel incredibly refreshing, ultimately allowing listeners to surge with a variety of bubbly sensations. Jackie Foster is all about keeping the string of catchy and glamorous pop singles going with her release of "All That." The track instantly has a buzzing energy that pulls your captivation close in, especially with the enthusiastic personality of Jackie Foster and how well she's able to emulate that through her vocals. "All That" follows along with the storyline of a lost intimate connection and the confidence peak that comes after ending a relationship. The fierce and fiery character that Jackie Foster naturally expels throughout the track is the leading showcase. Jackie Foster completely takes over the single, and there wasn't a single second we thought the track swallowed her. With Jackie Foster's "All That," you're getting an authentically-driven, high-energy single that will leave an impressionable feel. We're intrigued to see what Jackie Foster's able to do with her sound next, and the feeling she'll wash over us. Discover Jackie Foster's latest single, "All That", here. As an artist who has such potent spirited energy pour off of their music, would you say that this characterizable trait to yourself has come easily as a music artist, or was it a trait that had to be crafted over time? I finally feel like I am writing the type of music that really represents me! If you wanted to know who I am, just listen to this song. Since a young age, my parents instilled the importance of finding your smile and experiencing joy. I think that's why they still have so much faith in my music career because I have faced every challenge with positive energy. I have always been a happy bubbly person since the day I learned how to sing. As I began to develop my sound and get older, there was a time where I felt only "cool girls" could get their music heard, so I tried to dress differently and change the way I acted. It never felt right. I wish I came to this realization sooner, but here I am about to be 25 and living my best life! I always want to represent my bubbly personality within my music and I feel like I am finally not afraid to do that.    "All That" definitely gets categorized as a feel-good, upbeat and stimulating song! Where did you draw influence from in order to establish such a fervor within the track? What I look for in a good song is something that will make me through my head back and vibe out. I co-wrote this song with Shelby Adams and Adam Loeffler and I kept emphasizing that I wanted to write a really fun energetic song about the guy who gets everything he wants except for the girl. I feel egos get in the way of people's true hearts and sometimes it gets the best of them. I wanted to give people the power to recognize that you don't always have to be "All That" to make it. In terms of musical influence, I couldn't stop listening to Dua Lipa's "Don't Start Now". When that song dropped, it changed everything for me. I finally heard a sound that is exactly what I wanted to do expect in my own way. I am thankful that groove and this new modern 80's disco vibe is coming back because I am LIVING for it. How do you feel the level of connection between you and your listeners have changed within the last few months? Do you find you remain just as connected with your listening base as you did pre-pandemic?  Since the pandemic, things have been strange but talking to fans to social media is my escape. While it is so scary to be in the music industry and have no clue what will happen, I am so thankful that my fans look to me and my music as a chance to forget about everything even if it's for 2 minutes and 52 seconds. What's changed most significantly with my listeners is I have stopped holding back and pretending to be well put together. The more real I am with myself and I show that on my social media, the more I connect with others. I feel like the human connection is more important now than ever and we all need to be open with our feeling. Where would you say your artistic journey is off to next now that "All That" is finally released? Something feels really right about this song and I feel like this could be the one that changes my career. If I don't set goals, I can't challenge myself and I thrive under pressure. I am writing and already working on my next single because I can't let this momentum stop. Things are just getting started and I am finally comfortable with myself and my music that I refuse to let anything slow me down. I promise to give virtual concerts and connect with new listeners. I will always give people the chance to escape and experience a good time when they turn on my music.  What has been keeping you inspired this year? Oddly enough, home design is keeping me inspired. I know it has absolutely nothing to do with music, but somehow it works for me. When I can spend my creative energy on multiple things, it helps my songwriting in the long run. For now, it is all about accent walls, thrift flips, and renovation haha. I know it sounds so weird but finding a hobby during all of this keeps me sane and my mind straight. It also drives me to work harder on my music and create something that will make people smile. I feel lucky to have such amazing support and be surrounded by influential people. I hope to be that bright light for someone else. instagram.com/itsjackiefoster facebook.com/itsjackiefoster #BUZZMUSIC

Nashville based Singer/Songwriter Halley Neal takes us on a progressive ride with her upbeat single, "If I Was Ready." Influenced by the music she grew up listening to, Halley Neal's work can be compared to Ms. Stevie Nicks' during her time with Fleetwood Mac. After many notable collaborations and performances, Halley Neal has been working on her solo career since parting ways with her previous band Rose & Kennedy. Her single "If I Was Ready" is the first time we hear Halley Neal in an upbeat track since leaving the group, and it's one of the most compelling pieces we've heard this year. Halley Neal sings a passionate story within "If I Was Ready," and explains that if she were ready to receive love, it would play out like a movie scene. From the very first beat, we can feel this warm and loving atmosphere that showcases the growth Halley Neal has seen. With groovy instrumentals from an entire band's sound, we can hear why Halley's music is often compared to Fleetwood Mac's. The supporting instrumentals deliver a light and warm feeling through each melody, while Halley Neal pours her heart out through textured lyricism. It isn't every day we hear such a poised and strong-standing artist, yet Halley Neal challenges this with a sophisticated and wise outlook on love. "If I Was Ready" brings us that passionate sensation of love, while Halley Neal goes into detail with each lyric and locks us into her authentic sound. We're very excited to feature your latest passionate single "If I Was Ready." What overall message did you want to deliver with the track's lyricism? Thank you!! I’m excited! “If I Was Ready” was brought to me by my writing partner, Suzie Buist, a few years ago while we were studying together at Berklee College of Music in Boston. Immediately I connected with it, we even recorded a studio version for a friend’s class (who is actually my current producer, Julie Papili!), but I didn’t revisit the song until this year and I am so happy that I did!! This song means a lot of things to me, and it’s meaning has changed as time has gone on. I think at the surface, this song bops and feels good to the listener, and that was exactly our intention when we produced it in this upbeat feel-good way. Looking deeper into the lyrics lets the true core of this song shine - touching on that feeling of knowing you’re not ready to commit yourself to someone, no matter how much you really wish you could. Within your single "If I Was Ready," we're able to hear these nostalgic instrumental elements taking us back to the 60s and 70s. What inspired you to take this unique route with the instrumentals? I grew up listening to music from the 1960s and 70s - Grateful Dead, The Beatles, Fleetwood Mac. I was craving a bit of a different sound with this song than the direction I went with my former band Rose & Kennedy, or even in my first two solo singles “Isn’t That What a Friend’s For?” and “So Damn Perfect.” I decided to lean into that vibe from the music I’ve listened to forever, and “If I Was Ready” really came to life in that way. The vibe of this song really feels like me, and I am very excited to share it! You've collaborated with many notable acts/artists within your career. What have you learned from these experiences with professionals, and how did you transfer that knowledge into your career? A collaboration that really stands out was when I was able to record a song for my upcoming album with Clay Cook. Clay co-wrote a bunch of the songs off of John Mayer’s first album and now plays guitar and tours with Zac Brown Band. He’s just a total class act, and so down to earth and easy to work with. Working with him and watching him produce one of my songs taught me so much about the importance of being humble. Clay is an amazing, amazing musician with a ton of credits under his belt, but he never made me or anyone else in the room feel like we were less of a musician or artist. Working with him was the next level, and it made me want to take on that kind of down-to-earth presence as a musician. We've heard that you're now venturing onto your solo career after parting ways from your previous band Rose & Kennedy. Why did you decide to take this leap, and what do you want to do differently with your solo career? Yes! I’ve gone solo! Rose & Kennedy was my band from college, co-headed by my writing partner who I talked about earlier, Suzie Buist. Suzie and I both relocated to Nashville after graduating from Berklee and write together frequently! My solo project is essentially an extension off of Rose & Kennedy that perfectly suits the directions that she and I have wanted to each go in for a while now - me taking on the artist's responsibilities and her taking on a writer's role. All of the songs on my upcoming record were either co-written with Suzie or written solely by her. With this new project came a lot of individual growth for myself both personally and as a musician. I feel like I’ve been finding my voice and my path as an artist now more than ever. The sound is certainly reminiscent of the ol’ Rose & Kennedy days, but it definitely leans a little bit more rock. I am SO excited to put out all of this music that we’ve been working on, and “If I Was Ready” is in my opinion the perfect culmination of this new voice and sound I’ve been finding. What has been keeping you inspired throughout 2020? I spent 3 months of my quarantine with my parents and my grandmother back in my home state of Connecticut and it was equally as difficult to be cooped up as it was wonderful to spend that time with them. I draw so much inspiration from the strength of my parents and their parents as well as from the music that they love and encourage me to listen to. Even more recently, I, like many right now, have spent a lot of time acknowledging my privilege being a young white woman in America. I’m so inspired both musically and even more, personally, by my peers and others that I see standing up for black rights and trans rights and who I have learned so much from. instagram.com/halleyneal facebook.com/halleynealmusic #BUZZMUSIC

Auras of synthesized notes fly around you as you press play on Sharmond's new single "Hold on Me." Born and raised in Louisiana, Sharmond is an eclectic singer-songwriter with a few surprises up his sleeve. Sharmond infuses his heart and soul into his music, unafraid to put his vulnerability center stage preforming as a proud, Black male pop/ RnB artist, while simultaneously tackling the toxic masculinity and societal standards set for men today. "Hold on Me" is a story about standing on your own two feet after suffering a cataclysmic loss of love. Sharmond wears his heart on his sleeve throughout "Hold on Me" and provides a harrowing perspective of a male's journey through heartbreak. The chorus is pumped full of grinding 808 beats, as Sharmond elevates himself above the harmonic melancholy verses. "Hold on Me" exposes the intense and unhealthy coping mechanisms some turn to when a person they love goes away, but throughout the pain and agony, Sharmond rises above through his lyrics and shares a story of recovery and redemption. The warm notes of sound and infectious sultry beats combined with Sharmond's soulful voice create a soothing and energized effect on the listener. Sharmond's way of exploring emotional standards throughout his music is profound and resonating,  "Hold on Me" truly embodies these qualities, you don't want to miss this one. Hello Sharmond and welcome to BuzzMusic. Congratulations on your latest release "Hold on Me." What was the musical journey like for you on this song? Thank you so much for having me, it’s so great to be talking with you all. First off, I want to say how much I love BuzzMusic, and how I truly appreciate everything you all do for independent artists, like myself. You all are incredible. My musical journey with this song actually started when I moved to Los Angeles. I left my home state of Louisiana to pursue a career in the music industry. In the process, I left a lot behind. Many of my relationships had to be put on hold or left behind because of this move. This led me to write the song, which is about dealing with the pain of leaving behind a relationship and trying to move on from it. You are very vocal about tearing down gender stereotypes and allowing your music to explore emotional subject matter that many male artists do not. Why do you feel its important to tackle these double standards? It’s important to me because growing up I didn’t have a prominent male role model to tell me that it’s okay to be different. I felt that I constantly had to conform to what society expected of me. You grow up not feeling 100% yourself because you’ve been forced to play this role that isn’t necessarily who you are, but who people want you to be. It’s draining and I wouldn’t want anyone to grow up like that. So I put it upon myself to constantly show that it’s okay for men to cry, and be vulnerable, without having their masculinity questioned. "Hold on Me" really has a dark and stormy aura about it, but at the same time, your voice and lyrics make the sunshine through the clouds. What feelings do you want to impart on your listeners through your music? Thank you, and what I want most is for my listeners to just feel their emotions in its totality. I’m a Pisces so I’m naturally just an emotional person, but I want everyone listening to this song to just feel whatever emotions they are going through at that moment, and LET IT OUT. Cry if you need to, scream if you have to, but let it out and know that you can get through it because that is what the song is about, overcoming pain and heartbreak. Where has your music evolved from where you started? I feel that my music has evolved into being something dark and personal. One reason I’m glad that this is my first single is that it sets the tone for who I am as an artist. I’m an emotional guy, and I work hard every day to unapologetically express that to the world to show other men that it’s okay to be emotional and talk about feelings. What has been keeping you inspired in 2020? What has kept me most inspired is actually what’s been going on in our world recently. The stand we are taking as a black community against police brutality is truly inspiring. The Black Lives Matter movement shows that we are capable of forcing a change in a society that has been systematically built against us for many years and if my brother and sisters that look just like me can wake up every day and continue to be resilient in their efforts to create change, then I can too. instagram.com/sharmond facebook.com/sharmondt #BUZZMUSIC

Melbourne's own Carmen Modjito is here to deliver her latest moving and sensitive expressions to listeners. As an emerging artist, Carmen Modjito is all about crafting and mending her sound in order to expel as much authenticity as possible. Finding herself impassioned with climate change, as well as mediation efforts, Carmen Modjito takes the time to use her music platform to speak on the very issues she fights for. As a result, the music of Carmen Modjito can quite easily come off as sentimental, passionate, as well as incredibly confident. Her latest offering proves to be just as eloquent as we imagined and truly brought an important perspective to light. Carmen Modjito doesn't fail her listeners with her latest ballad "House Is On Fire". The song begins with a sultry and moving rhythm, eventually progressing into a more dramatic production. If you're an avid listener of Carmen Modjito, you'd know that her vocal range has incredible depth and she's able to pack an impressive amount of passion into each and every word she sings. "House Is On Fire" erupts with authenticity, and this mainly stems from Carmen's innate ability to craft her voice in an emotionally-packed style, as well as the highlighted theme of the song. The passion that Carmen Modjito unveils within "House Is On Fire" is absolutely warming, and you'll find yourself completely fixated on the words of Carmen throughout the single. The song's versatility extends itself further from just there, as "House Is On Fire" is the exact kind of track you'd easily find playing in an intense drama, considering all of its poignant expressions. Carmen Modjito proves to be dynamically fascinating in "House Is On Fire", and we can't imagine her artistic flame every dying down. Welcome, Carmen Modjito! Your latest release "House Is On Fire" showcases some incredibly important values you hold. Can you delve deeper into the meaning of the track, and what exactly it was you wanted your listeners to feel and think afterward? Hi! Thanks for having me at Buzz Music! Well, House Is On Fire was written about a year ago in response to my feelings of frustration and distress at the lack of action being taken by international leaders on climate change. There were some days when it was completely overwhelming and I didn’t want to get out of bed — but what motivated me was seeing the movement of young people all around the world standing up for their future, my future, everyone’s future, and really saying inaction is not an option. The name everyone knows for climate action is Greta Thunberg (Sweden) and she’s amazing, but there are phenomenal youth leaders all over the world, including Xiuhtezcatl Martinez (USA) and Vanessa Nakate (Uganda) who are both really fighting for direct and responsible action. I wanted my listeners to know they’re not alone, and there is hope. There are people standing up for their future — and to look for these people and get involved. How would you say you go about choosing the melody for tracks such as "House Is On Fire" in order to match its actual content? Do you feel that it can often be an obstacle to connect your lyrics with production? When I write music the lyrics and the melody nearly always come together, so while there was some refinement to do in the form of the song the majority of the melody came to me as I wrote the lyrics. In this particular case, I worked with an incredible producer, Nir Tsfaty, and engineer, Jonny Westwood (Signet Sounds), who really believed in what I was trying to create. We all wanted to get the best out of the track, and for the most part, we were all on the same page. Everything they did support the vision I was trying to create. Considering your experience as a performer, do you feel that your creative vision was a lot sharper once writing and recording music? Are there any challenges you feel you face as a newcomer to the music industry? Actually, I’ve been writing songs for a long time, but I never thought I would do anything with them, and I never thought they were very good. It wasn’t until I wrote CMFK (from my first album, Girl On Caffeine) that I thought I could record. The difference with the songs I’m writing now, though, is that they feel a lot more connected to my values and to who I am. I’ve worked out more of who I am, and I think that comes across in the songs and makes them more cohesive — but I guess you’ll have to hear for yourself! As a newcomer, the biggest challenge is getting people to listen to your music (and come to gigs when we were allowed to…), but with social media, we definitely have options to be creative about how to engage with fans, and I think that’s exciting. Where do you feel your artistry will be headed within the next year or two?! Are there any specific goals you've set in place for yourself, or are you more so an artist to take everything day-by-day?! Ooh, I have an idea of where I want to take my music in the next year, but in two years… I’m not sure exactly! A lot can change in two years, but I think that’s a pretty exciting prospect, and to stay open-minded to new opportunities. I’d like to record another album, and I had some live venue goals, but with COVID I don’t know if it’s realistic to keep them. So, recording for now, and I’ve been thinking about a YouTube series. What has been keeping you inspired in 2020? That there are still good people doing good things. It’s easy to get swayed by all the negative news and media (and it is awful), but there are everyday people doing incredible kindnesses to their neighbors and complete strangers; there are activists fighting to make the world a better place, and there are artists trying to keep us all smiling through this crazy time. Focusing on my goals has helped me stay motivated, but connecting with friends and family, and spending downtime with my dog has really helped me stay in the moment, and I hope I can hold onto that. instagram.com/carmenmodjito facebook.com/carmenmodjito #BUZZMUSIC