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San Diego based Rapper Lew Houston reveals his heartfelt rhymes on his latest hit "Shed so Many Tears" off his EP, 'Back for Me.' Born and raised in Houston, Lew Houston took it upon himself to join the military after high school. Once realizing that he needed more to fulfill his artistic dreams, Lew returned to society and began creating. You can hear the dedication, perseverance, and heart that he's put into his latest release "Shed so Many Tears." Rapping overtop of a sublime downtempo hip-hop beat, Lew Houston serenades us with his meaningful bars about staying humble after seeing success, and how he continues to grow along his journey. "Shed so Many Tears" opens with blissful piano chords and heavenly electric guitar picking. As the beat begins to swell, we can hear deep and vibrating sub-bass that moves the song into a more substantial atmosphere. As Lew starts rapping, his authentic vocals are endlessly listenable and melodic, making his passionate bars all the more intriguing. He explains that his journey wasn't always successful, reminding us that it was trial and error until he found an approach that works. The supporting production maintains its steady groove, and truly reflects Lew Houston's authentic and vulnerable message. We can hear every ounce of dedication that Lew Houston poured into "Shed so Many Tears," and we're only excited to see how he continues to flourish. Welcome back to BuzzMusic, Lew Houston! We're loving every aspect of your latest hit, "Shed so Many Tears." What pushed you to create a track that highlights your journey, and reminds us that significant endeavors take lots of patience? Throughout the past year, I've gone through many trials and tribulations and the only way know to cope with problems in life is to share them through music. Could Lew Houston tell us more about the creation behind "Shed so Many Tears," did you produce the track? If not, who helped you lay down the beat and craft it to your liking? I did not produce the track but, I wrote and recorded it.  I had been putting everyone else ahead of myself and then would turn around and expect people to do the same but they didn't; So I'm basically describing how I shed tears for the old me because I wasn't putting "Me" first.  In order to take care of or help others, you have to be in a good mental state and health first; then you can help others. We've heard that you spent some time serving in the military, and returned to society to expand your music career. Have you written some music based on these experiences, and where do you usually find your inspiration? I really don't go into any details about my military experiences because a lot of missions were confidential;  I just know that it wasn't for me anymore, so I completed my first enlistment and then, rejoined society in the civilian sector.  But, I can say, being in the military gave me more attention to detail and taught me how to make it through almost any situation. You've performed at many notable festivals across the United States. What should we anticipate from your live shows, and how engaging would you say your performances are? I'm the type of artist who likes to get up close and personal with my audience; meaning, I don't just stay on the stage if my mic allows me.  I prefer to get in your face so you can feel my vibes and engage in my performance.  I dance, even though I don't have any moves; I'd crowd surf if there were enough people in front; I dap people up and give high fives to give my fans that true live performance experience; and after my shows, I take the time to walk back through the crowd to not only share my social media/music links but, to also ask what the people thought of my performance and what would they like to see in my upcoming shows. What are you doing through these tough times to stay inspired? Thank you for talking with us Lew Houston. We can't wait to hear what's next? Since we've been basically on house arrest during this pandemic, I've had more time to really engage in self-marketing, as well as contact PR's and curators to promote my music/brand. instagram.com/lew_houston #BUZZMUSIC

Shawn Xavien is a modern-day Hip-Hop artist who strives to create change through his music. Since founding Senih Circle Music, Shawn has acquired a vast amount of production credits for various artists and has released several critically acclaimed albums. Recently, Shawn Xavien joined forced with Thadd Williams and Travesty to create the brutally honest of a release “Stand for Something II,” where it highlights current tensions going on both outside and within. “Stand for Something II” is equally chill and driving to listen to, where you can’t help but feel fired up while listening and want to reevaluate yourself to become the best person you can be. Featuring a sparsely minimalistic production that has a spaced-out lo-fi 808 drum kit and twinkling soft bells, the instrumental sets up the perfect soundscape for Shawn Xaviens vocals to shine above and deliver their honest message. To top it off, Shawn Xavien will be donating all proceeds from purchases of “Stand for Something II” directly to organizations that are geared towards change, and we love every aspect of that. We can’t wait to hear what else is coming from Shawn Xavien and his lyrical storytelling. You can learn more about “Stand for Something II” here. Your latest release “Stand for Something II” really has us thinking about ourselves, what are some ways that you hope this release will change the lives of the people? With this record, I hope those who choose to press play and listen feel it necessary to not only share it with others but encourage them to actually listen as well. One of the biggest issues in all of humanity is actually listening to one another and appreciating the dialogue. Having MEANINGFUL conversation and acting on it actually leads to change. It is exciting to team up with some lyrical heavyweights in the industry! How did all you come to meet? What was that whole writing process like? I've known Travesty for about 10 years. He and I collaborated on a song called "It's Alright" from a previous album of mine 'A Boy and His Beard' and we grew up in the same city (Newport News, VA), so the relationship is organic. Thadd Williams and I, believe it or not, have never met personally, yet I've followed his music for the better part of a decade and we have this kinship as Artist with a respect to match. The writing process was really my reaching out to both of them to see if they were interested, as the song was to be part 2 of the original "Stand for Something" that I released in May. There weren't any guidelines except to say what you feel. They both recorded their verses in their perspective cities and sent them right over. They both believed in my vision and the rest is history. The production of this one has a very minimalistic aesthetic to it, was this something in mind during the initial songwriting or did it come later? Did the beat come to life before you wrote the lyrics? The production was created before there was ever a song but I knew where I was going during the process. I didn't want an overproduced song, it had to be concise. The inspiration came from one of my favorite movies, "Rocky IV," where Duke is motivating a battered and seemingly exhausted Rocky right before the final round. That line "...all your strength, all your power, all your love, everything you got!" resonates with where we are in the black community. We've gone round after round, trying to overcome racism, injustice, internal and external hatred but keep getting up. It’s really awesome to hear you’re donating all proceeds to organizations that help create change, what would some of these organizations be and what are some ways you try to be the best person you can be? Since there are three artists who came together to create this powerful record, the organizations will be of each of our choosing. Ideally, it would be organizations that would help where we live or what we are most passionate about. Being the best person I can be is something that I take into each moment and interaction. I believe you can only do that if you're at peace with yourself. I'll share knowledge and good energy with anyone I come in contact with if that's what the moment requires.  What else can we see next from you Shawn? More music is to be expected of course. I've been at it for 15 years and I have no plans of slowing down. I love the art of music and have this innate passion to create. Music is an integral part of my legacy, no matter how unpopular it may be. senihcirclemusic.com instagram.com/shawnxavien #BUZZMUSIC

Brett Copeland returns to BuzzMusic with his second single of the year, “Your Paradise”. The epitome of an authentic rock artist has been busy finalizing his debut EP set to release later this year. Being known for his striking energy, Brett Copeland really didn’t miss a beat with the release of his recent single “Your Paradise.” A vibrant alternative rock song that pushes into heavy rock ’n roll, Brett Copeland has arranged this track to perfection and blasts through with an overall anthemic feel. Bringing in a sultry atmosphere through the scorching instrumentals and Brett Copeland’s playful lyricism, “Your Paradise” is nothing short of heat. Taking a deeper listen to “Your Paradise,” the track is incredibly dynamic and ranges to different highs and lows. What strikes our ears instantly is the pre-chorus, where Brett Copeland and his accompanying electric guitars belt out these minor-key melodies that bring a sensual and haunting feeling. He sings about not regretting anything when spending the night with a certain someone, truly highlighting his fiery passion towards this person. The hook is another hi-fi element to the track, Brett Copeland’s chanting background vocals bring in vast energy that shoots the song up to the stars. Brett Copeland’s “Your Paradise” is yet another blistering track from the electrifying singer, and we’re looking forward to what he brings in the future. Discover "Your Paradies" here. Great to have you back on BuzzMusic, Brett Copeland! We’re assuming that “Your Paradise” was another track inspired by your wife. What made you want to create another song that highlights your passion for her, yet incorporates energetic rock as well? Hi, It's great to speak with you again. Actually, the song's about a young man suffering the harrowing, archaic toils of a dark and brutal, undeserved imprisonment and then, upon his glorious release, suddenly thrust into its antithesis -the decadent, reckless Dionysian spoils of the Los Angeles music scene. It is the story of extreme trials and tribulations and ultimate redemption -  scenarios of which I know all too well. My wife did shoot and design the cover art, though. The arrangement on your single “Your Paradise” is truly incredible, especially the pre-chorus and chorus. Was Brett Copeland accompanied by any producers when mixing this track, and what was this recording process like? Thank you. I am proud of this song and how it turned out. I wrote it all, note by note, on a sh*tty old keyboard I bought for $20. By the time I finished writing and recording the demo on Logic at home, it was pretty close to exactly how I wanted the sound to be.  I did have a very clear vision for this song from day one. Not only for the structure but for the mix. Fortunately, I was introduced to an up and coming mixer named Joel Ferber who executed my vision perfectly as far as tones were concerned.  Additionally, my friend, Ramon Blanco - the guitar player for Grandson, brought his baritone guitar into the studio the day we recorded it at Matt Sorum's Drac studios, and that really helped bring out the vibe. Richard Bradly, the drummer for Dead Posey, played drums on it and executed the right feel perfectly. And of course, my dear friend Dan Curcio crushed on the bass.  In the studio,  I have to thank Chad Shlosser for recording the sick tones and maintaining my vision on this song as well. It was a very smooth process. With a debut set of singles and an upcoming EP, Brett Copeland has clearly been hard at work. Have you seen much change in how you create since the pandemic, or are you still executing the same habits? Since I do most of the writing and production from home on my laptop, there is not that much of a change, to be honest. I am constantly creating and it's all done in Logic on guitars, bass, and keyboards. During your recent interview with BuzzMusic, Brett Copeland mentioned that being a solo artist is much easier for you than your previous band experiences. Have your views on creation and songwriting changed now that you don’t feel as much stress from other creators? I do feel less of a creative burden not having to constantly compromise and appease other player's visions. My path is clear. I do, however,  still enjoy writing with other musicians, and I have not stopped. There are a few musicians/friends I am currently writing with right now who are in really successful bands who come to me with ideas and material that they love - but their bandmates don't love or think would fit the band's sound. It's fun and cathartic.  And, although those songs may or may not be "BrettCopeland" songs. they will probably see the light of day sooner or later. What's next for you, Brett? What's next...That's a great question. I have some more songs to record and release. Really cool songs, and - lyrically, some things I need to get off my chest. Some of these songs I play all of the instruments on except for the drums. These new songs are going to surprise some people as well. Both musically, stylistically, and lyrically. I am also working on a video for Your Paradise. However, other than that - In truth, with the pandemic, what's next is a question on a lot of artists' minds. Sh*t has been so crazy, and the landscape is changing daily. Right now I am focusing on building an online presence and getting my music safely out there and waiting for the COVID dust to settle. The new normal is what's next, but I don't think any of us quite know what that means... instagram.com/brettcopeland brettcopeland.com #BUZZMUSIC

Independent singer/songwriter Wendy Lucas charms us with her latest release, "Best I Can (feat. Andy Stilson)." From the young age of 8, Wendy got her start in music from singing at church. This experience taught her how to navigate through layers of harmony, while also creating the blueprint of her songwriting style today. As an independent artist, Wendy is inspired to teach herself various skills, including songwriting, playing piano, recording, production, and more. Her hard work, passion, and expertise are reflected in her latest release, "Best I Can." This track will instantly draw you in with the smooth R&B beat and mellow electric guitar that continues throughout the song. "Best I Can" is a beautiful love story of wanting to be the best version of yourself for the person that you love. The song's message is about making sure your partner knows how much you love them, leaving them with no reason to ever worry about losing you. Wendy has captivated audiences around the world with her stunning vocal melodies and unique sound that is unmistakably her own. Take a listen to "Best I Can," and you'll be sure to have it stuck in your head for the rest of the day. Welcome to BuzzMusic Wendy Lucas! We are falling in love with the adorable message of “Best I Can”! Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind this song?  I’ve noticed that my generation has a hard time confronting their emotions and being open to the idea of falling in love. Love can be scary, but it can also be rewarding, so I wanted to write a song about the beautiful side of love. I want people to feel comfortable embracing those feelings.  Can you walk us through your creative process with this song? What was it like to bring the song to life through the production?  Andy Stilson, who plays guitar on the track, came up with the chord progression first. We actually wrote it on FaceTime because our city was in lockdown due to Coronavirus. He was playing these beautiful chords on an acoustic guitar, and I started singing over it. The original sound of the track was just the lead vocal and the acoustic guitar, but it was really cool to bring it to life with percussion, bass, electric guitar, and vocal harmonies in the recorded version. It definitely changed the sound, but we loved both versions so much, we decided to record the acoustic version too - but that will come in the future! We are captivated by your unique sound! Can you tell us more about how you have shaped your style over the years?  I grew up singing in my church’s choir. I would always be singing the harmony parts, and as I got older, I loved creating my own harmonies over all different types of music. As a kid, I listened to Pop, but because of my love for harmonies and background vocals, I became a huge fan of R&B and Soul as I grew older. R&B is definitely my favorite genre. I love how the style allows artists, including myself, to come up with creative melodies and harmonies, and I love the emotion that R&B conveys.  Music has been a part of your life since the young age of 8. Was there a defining moment when you knew that you wanted it to be your career?  As a child, I had always wanted to be a singer, but that’s something that all kids say they want to be. I was involved in music during all stages of my life, from the choir, to a cappella group, to songwriting. For some time, though, I didn’t know if I would be able to pursue it as a career. I actually went into college as a biology major, but it didn’t take long for me to realize that music was the only thing I could see myself pursuing. I quickly made the decision to focus on music and use my degree to learn even more about my passion. I’m so grateful that I chose this route, and so grateful for the people who have supported me during my journey in music.  What's keeping you inspired in 2020? At a time like this, we need art more than ever. Music is a very expressive and relatable form of art, arguably a type of therapy. It is an opportunity for both the songwriter and the listener to articulate their feelings while also forming a connection to each other and the song. We will always need music. People would go insane without it, and songwriters would go insane without writing it. With all of the crazy things that are happening in 2020, we have an opportunity to turn it into art, which can create hope and change. That’s what keeps me inspired. instagram.com/wendylucasofficial facebook.com/WendyLucasMusic wendylucasofficial.wixsite.com #BUZZMUSIC

Step into Boi Blue & Milah's storybook of raps and press play on their latest hit "Top Ten." Ambient chimes and whistles lead you into the track like a pied piper, as the atmosphere explodes with a dirty, grinding beat as Boi Blue blasts onto the scene. Boi Blue (Atlanta, GA) and Milah (Columbia, SC) joined forces on this latest release to showcase their detailed lyrism and infectious beats as both rap over "Top Ten" with lyrical prowess. These two independent artists understand the direction of the sound they want a project to take. Through extreme attention to detail over every element of the process, they are able to create a highly polished piece that holds up to any professionally produced production. Boi Blue raps with a "sauciness" as his rhymes spill over the track. His artistic and skillful experimental rapping style uses both internal and half-rhymes set to his breakneck delivery speed. Milah steps into the heavy soundscape, emitting the same level of intensity and prowess. Her clever rhymes and wordplay captivate and memorize the listener. The never compromising bellowing 808 beat never waivers as does Boi Blue and Milah as they relentlessly dominate this hot track. "Top Ten" is destined to be one of your top tracks, don't miss out on Boi Blue and Milah's masterful collaboration. instagram.com/IAMBOIBLUE instagram.com/BEENMILAH #BUZZMUSIC

Based in Las Vegas, the compelling singer/songwriter and vocalist Alyssa Harris graces BuzzMusic with her refreshing EP 'Wild Dreamer.' With twelve years in the music industry under her belt, Alyssa Harris has won over fans by engaging in iconic Hollywood venues and performing her own headlined shows on various cruise lines. Alyssa Harris mentioned that her latest EP 'Wild Dreamer' is an ode to a fresh start. She touches on themes of growth and expansion, as she sings about closing chapters of her life only to begin new ones. With dynamic instrumentals from alt-pop, soft rock, and a hint of reggae, Alyssa Harris showcases vast talent through all six tracks. Opening the EP with force through the intro track "Start Again," Alyssa Harris is accompanied by exhilarating jazz/rock instrumentals while adding her soulful flare. She begins vocalizing with power and stuns us with her effortless melisma and broad vocal range, singing lyrics of wanting to start again and leave her past behind. At a mid-tempo pace, the lively instrumentals feed us so much soul that perfectly amplifies Alyssa Harris' motivational and expansive message. With multiple percussion breakdowns and groovy electric guitar riffs, "Start Again" makes us want to hit the repeat button. Onto the second track "Dreaming of the City," within the first thirty seconds, we can hear a variety of diverse elements that make the song so unique. Starting with riveting power chords and upbeat drum patterns, we're left with the sole sound of a piano and Alyssa Harris' angelic vocals. She's so animated when she begins singing, as she genuinely places her heart within each lyric she exclaims. Alyssa sings a message similar to the first song, explaining that she dreams of leaving her town and escaping to the city with a fresh start. This hi-fi soft rock tune definitely stands out with authority on this EP. Moving on to the third track, and Alyssa Harris' noted favorite, "Irish Goodbye." The song begins with a foot-stomping drum beat and vigorous electric guitar power chords. While transcendent keys make their way in, Alyssa Harris starts singing a message that we've all felt before. She goes into detail explaining a relationship that's run its course and how Alyssa attempts to make a smooth exit without making a fuss over it. The instrumentals are as inspiring as the lyrics, sharing melodies that get us out of any negative headspaces and remind us that the future holds countless blessings. Alyssa Harris truly put her heart and soul into this track, and it's intoxicating. Slowing it down at the next track "There for You," the introduction is incredibly mesmerizing through soulful piano chords and Alyssa Harris' sublime vocal stylings. The instrumentals are very jazz-infused, and the down-tempo pace allows Alyssa Harris to explain the woes she experiences within. Singing a loving story to what sounds to be her mother, Alyssa Harris mentions that all she aims for is to make her proud, even though she's away most of the time. Again, pouring her heart and soul into this piece, we're left getting lost in Alyssa's enchanting vocals, and we're compelled by her vulnerable and honest songwriting. Reminding us that there are "More Good Times" with the next track, we're instantly taken to the islands with the song's bright reggae instrumentation. Alyssa Harris begins singing, and her lyrics are so relatable and allow us to realize that the past isn't all sunshine and rainbows. She sings about catching herself comparing life today to life before and explains that we shouldn't romanticize the past, but the future instead. The groovy and bouncy reggae instrumentals perfectly reflect Alyssa Harris's positive message and grace us with an infectious rhythm that we can't seem to shake. A song that can take you out of a rut and into bliss, "More Good Times," is definitely a beacon of hope. Ending off the EP with an acoustic remix of "Dreaming of the City (Acoustic Remix)," this time around, we can hear Alyssa Harris' deep emotion emphasized with heartfelt piano melodies. The song is that much more haunting when it's solely Alyssa Harris accompanied by ethereal piano. Her vocal melodies and melisma continue to wow us, while she captivates us at the hook and belts her lyrics with poise and surreal talent. The second time around the hook, Alyssa Harris incorporates an added vocal harmony that levels the track to perfection. Leaving the EP 'Wild Dreamer' with power and hope, it would be an understatement to say that Alyssa Harris' EP moved us. It took us to foreign places of the heart and helped us familiarize ourselves with change. Don't miss out on this positive experience. Hey Alyssa Harris, welcome to BuzzMusic! You capture such a needed positive message with your EP 'Wild Dreamer.' What inspired you to write songs based on your desire to start fresh? A lot of the music that I've written for previous projects has had different themes, but I've always been drawn to music with a positive message. It came naturally to me to write about the things that I was experiencing aside from personal relationships; I have been feeling a shift lately with the place I am in my career and in life in general. I feel like I am at a crossroads between an "old" life and a new one: with music, with people, with work... and writing this EP has captured that for me. Alyssa Harris, you mentioned that your favorite song off the EP is "Irish Goodbye." Why does the song stand out to you, and what made you choose the term "Irish Goodbye"? I really love the music in this song. I heard the chords in my head one day and sang them out to my guitarist who interpreted what I was feeling, so beautifully and accurately. I love that you can kind of feel an alternative/rock-ish vibe to it, but I also like that you can't really put your finger on it. The expression "Irish Goodbye" basically means to leave a party without saying goodbye, or otherwise making it known that you're making an exit. I thought it was a cool concept when you think about it in terms of relationships... just skipping over the knock-down fights, the endless texting, the coming back to their house to grab your things. It's not that you are "ghosting" them necessarily, but just leaving the situation as quietly as possible to avoid extra pain and heartache or just overall awkwardness that happens after a breakup and you or the other person can't just let it go. Leave that memory behind and make a fresh start. Speaking on the instrumentals within the entire EP 'Wild Dreamer,' Alyssa Harris incorporates genres like alt-pop, soft rock, and reggae. What drove you to create a project with vastly different musical approaches? Part of that I just attribute to the fact that I write and sing what I feel. I have always had a hard time "picking" a genre to sing since I started writing music because people would try to put me in a box as to what they thought I should be singing when the reality is I love (and I am inspired by) every type of music imaginable. There are times when I start writing a song and it sounds like it might be a rock tune, but once I get into the studio and add musicians to the mix, it turns out to be a whole different type of vibe. Most of the original songs that I have previously recorded are Pop/R&B, and since it's been so long since then, I wanted to freely approach a new EP by allowing myself the freedom to play around with different styles, and see which ones felt best to me. We've heard that Alyssa Harris' live performances are like no other, especially through your level of audience engagement. Which songs are you most excited to perform off your 'Wild Dreamer' EP, and why? When live performance is back in some capacity, and I have the opportunity to work with the amazing musicians that recorded my project with me, I can't wait to perform the high-energy rock tunes off the EP, "Dreaming of the City" and "Start Again". I just imagine so much freedom and fun associated with those two pieces, and I picture so much energy coming out through my connection with the audience and my interactions with those musicians. One thing I know that audiences love (I love to see it when I'm an audience member) is the people onstage not only having a good time but connecting with each other to bring forth an amazing performance for the crowd to see. What's next for you? I am really excited to be able to perform Wild Dreamer live when the time comes. During the current state of live venues and such, I can't say when that will be, but as soon as it's possible, I will be performing original music in local venues around Las Vegas and Los Angeles, and my goal is to book some regional venues or fairs in the fall. When travel comes back in full force, I will be back to headlining shows on cruise ships worldwide. In the meantime, I am always working on side projects that can be found via my website and social media, songwriting, teaching voice lessons, practicing, and just overall keeping my creative juices flowing as much as possible. I always have something in the works. alyssaharrismusic.com Instagram.com/alyssaharrismusic Facebook.com/alyssaharrisfanpage #BUZZMUSIC

From New Jersey to LA, pop artist/songwriter Gigi Rich drops her enlightening single, "Sober." Through many features with us, we've seen Gigi Rich grow into a poised and creative young artist who continues to speak her truth. With iconic influences like Lady Gaga, Amy Winehouse, Fleetwood Mac, Queen, and more, Gigi Rich's music will undoubtedly leave its mark on you. Especially with her latest single "Sober," where Gigi Rich went into detail and explained the theme of an 'addictive' feeling towards someone she once loved. Rounding out the song with a killer beat and thrilling pop production, Gigi Rich reaches out of her comfort zone and rises into greatness. "Sober" opens with airy ghost vocals and a soft pop beat. Gradually growing wider in production with an added bassline, we're instantly up and moving with this song. Gigi Rich begins singing a true story of love and loss, as she explains that her preceding significant other was never the cure, but what she was addicted to all along. Gigi's vocals are delivered flawlessly; with each breath she takes and note she sings, we can hear the sense of relief within her voice. Reaching the hook, we can feel her Lady Gaga influence as the beat sounds as though it could've been a perfect fit for Gaga's "Chromatica." The production perfectly backs up Gigi Rich's illuminated message full of wisdom and growth, while "Sober" lets us realize what we need instead of want, and gives us the ability to love with clarity. Welcome back to BuzzMusic, Gigi Rich! We'd like to note the amount of growth we've seen from you, and how you indicate this on your single "Sober." When did you realize that you needed to create a song surrounding some realizations you've had? Hey, thank you for having me back! This song actually came pretty naturally to me after experiencing one too many major disappointments on a personal level and realized I needed to understand how I kept ending up in these situations. I was attracting the same person in different forms, and I kind of ignored the signs until something disastrous happened. It’s a hard cycle to break. We love the vibrant pop production within your single "Sober." Did you work with any producers that helped bring your sonic vision to life during the creative process? What sort of tone or theme were you going for regarding the production? Yes! I worked with an amazing producer - his name is Trevan McClure. This song was originally written as a ballad. I brought it into the studio kind of unsure where to go with it in production. I really thought it would end up being just a piano/vocal, but we started talking about what current music we’ve been listening to, and the sound I wanted to create for myself. We then found this 80’s pop synth that we were both instantly attracted to, and It grew from there! I like when songs have darker lyrical content with very upbeat production - and this gave me that. Within "Sober," you capture such detailed lyrics of moving on from past love. How did you write such accurate lyrics that fit your emotions, and did you find a sense of closure after releasing this song? I wrote the hook first, and I wrote it very quickly! So it was just taking that, building around it and kind of telling the story of what’s going on in my head. For this song, I wasn’t too caught up in saying everything in some metaphorical way, and wanted to be straightforward and just clearly say what I wanted to say! I did get a lot of closure from releasing this song. Putting it out into the world was important because I never got the closure I felt I needed. So - I closed that door myself. With your previous interview with us, you mentioned that moving from NY to CA helped you artistically loosen up and live in the moment. After realizing this, did you make any changes to the way you write your music, and what you write your music about? I still write about the same things, as you get older emotions just intensify. You start to see your bad habits and figure out what you’re becoming as a person, and if you’re happy with it. You experience different people and things, and for me, I write about that as a means of understanding myself. I guess in a way I do write music differently - it’s way more unfiltered. What's keeping you inspired in 2020? Releasing this new music has really kept me going when I start to think too much about how much of the world is essentially shut down. Also, focusing on my health :) Just happy to be here! instagram.com/iamgigirich gigirich.com #BUZZMUSIC

The New Jersey musician, writer, and actor Greg Amici return to BuzzMusic with his latest conceptual track "Spin That Ball." Greg Amici noted that the song was inspired by the upcoming film "Blackjack: The Jackie Ryan Story" based on Jack 'blackjack' Ryan and his basketball ventures. He also mentioned that he has a small role in the upcoming film premiering October 2020. Greg Amici's single "Spin That Ball" ties in many melodic instrumentals into this upbeat alt-rock tune, as well as detailed and story-like lyricism that tells a lively tale of Jack Ryan and how his legacy will inspire many others down the road. Opening "Spin That Ball" with pulsing electric guitar and drums, Greg Amici's vocals jump into the song and describes the roaring energy of a basketball game. While his lyrics turn into this well-rounded story, we begin to hear the troubles of this character and what held him back from moving forward. Greg Amici's vocals are incredibly striking and bright, as he sings with passion towards this character and tells a compelling story. The rocking instrumentals keep the track's energy at a high and pushes the song to be a perfect fit for the soundtrack of the upcoming film. Listening to "Spin That Ball," we feel that drive to go out and play a game for ourselves, especially after hearing Greg Amici's encouraging messages. Welcome back to BuzzMusic, Greg! We're full of excitement after listening to your single "Spin That Ball." What sort of themes did you want to illustrate with this song about a basketball star's experiences? The song was inspired by Black Jack Ryan, who had a shot at basketball stardom but blew his opportunity. To me, that wasn’t the most interesting aspect of the story. What interested me is that his second act ended, not in victory, but in acceptance of a more banal, but much healthier existence. When someone overshoots for the stars and crash-lands afterward, where does he or she go? We perversely romanticize the dramatic final act— murder, suicide— but overlook the mundane— get married, get a regular job, and stop dreaming. That’s change. To me, the mundane is the essence of existence. How did you write the lyrics for "Spin That Ball," and how did you channel real concepts within the movie while making the song your own? I had a small role in the movie, Black Jack: The Jackie Ryan Story. The director, Danny Abeckaser, really liked my performance.  I told him I’d like to take a crack at writing and recording a song for the movie. He loved “Spin That Ball," but ultimately it didn’t fit in with the more urban-oriented soundtrack of the film. I basically took some aspects of the basketball story and then exaggerated or changed some of the elements to fit the theme above (answer to Question 1). It’s also about controlling your life; it’s about self-dependence. “If you want to be the mayor, better buy the town." We've noticed that you create a lot of conceptual music, especially towards characters in films. Does all your music surround this theme, and what pulled you into this unique songwriting approach? Sometimes the song revolves around the theme and sometimes I find the theme as I go along. I have to keep things somewhat loose when I start out. The one thing I’ll say is that I write from the character’s point-of-view, which may be benign, engaged, disengaged, violent, etc. One thing that drives me crazy is when people presume that the “voice” within the song is that of the artist, especially if it’s in the first person. That’s ridiculous, but that’s what’s they’re selling these days in this culture. In “Spin That Ball,” the speaker is a friend or an observer of the basketball player, and I would say is a bit judgmental. The narrator is a character that serves the story. We've heard that you are not only a musician/artist, but you're also a screenwriter and actor. How do these experiences help your artistic career expand? Well, I was hired by the film director, Danny Abeckaser,  to write a script which I’m currently writing. Meanwhile, he knew that I was an actor, so he put me in Black Jack. I culled the idea for “Spin That Ball,” from being in the movie, so I wrote the song. That’s usually how it works for me. What's keeping you inspired in 2020? I was just reading about Nabokov’s tendency to thwart an unhappy experience by funneling it directly into his work. This has been an unhappy year, but I’m managing alright because I have a creative outlet. There was a lot of great work that came out of the World Wars and the “first" Cold War, so I’d say that socio-political elements shouldn’t be a drag on art/entertainment, they should be a boon. instagram.com/gregamicimusic facebook.com/gregamicimusic20 gregamici.com #BUZZMUSIC

What happens when a pop star who's hell-bent on empowering others with her sassy spark gets out of a toxic relationship? Ashley Zarah puts forth an explanation with "My Boyfriend," a fierce anti-venomous relationship single that finds her on the tail end of a breakup from a notoriously unpleasant S.O. —and is all the more fortunate for it. She gladly accepts the new packaged clean commodity that affords the clever song its title, achieved with an effortless rasp. At the same time, she's busy fantasizing about not being with that flunk for another waking moment. Intricate like a brilliantly decorated painting, "My Boyfriend" packs some of the more potent punches in her catalog. Still, as an upbeat single that finds joy in exorcising sandbags from out of your life, it captures a most delicate flavor. "But if you didn't get that, I'll send a snap chat" she scoffs on the break-down section before a straightforward shot: "Just to remind you that you're not my boyfriend!" Ashley Zarah is essentially unequaled in discovering the better half in heartbreak and breakup. At the same time, she adds a satiric smirk with an edible touch of class to her musical unravellings this year with this track. Hey there, Ashley! Welcome to BuzzMusic! We're absolutely elated to be featuring your single "My Boyfriend!” Can you tell us a bit about how you made such an empowering song out of a breakup? What was that process like? Thanks for having me! It’s so humbling to be featured on BuzzMusic. For sure! I think ultimately, I was just exhausted about the situation – exhausted to the point that I was just laughing at it. I was much smarter than the decisions I was making, and I was tolerating this person because I didn’t want to ruin the “fun summer” that I was hell-bent on having. But once this thing broke off for good, it was like a cap exploded off a shaken champagne bottle and all the things I’d been holding in and wanting to say just came pouring out. This song seemed to be festering from the moment him and I had our first conversation, but it was waiting for me to be brutally honest. I’m a very empathetic person, oftentimes to a fault. So once I put this guy’s reputation aside, it allowed the ridiculous truth (but a truth nonetheless) to come out. Then the whole song was built around the sardonic tone of it – from the bubbly guitar riff to these triumphant ska-horns, just elevating the sarcasm. And the truth turned out to rhyme really well. Who has had the most consistent influence on your life musically to date? Can you express some of the impacts this individual has had in terms of your ability to convey through music? There are so many incredible writers and artists that I’ve learned from, but I’ve got to say Coldplay. I grew up with them in the 90s and have watched their messages take very eclectic musical forms yet still always impact me. Their emotional use of harmony, their autonomy from the genre, their ability to capture truth through figurative language but also simplicity… I feel like I’ve learned almost every angle of music from them because they don’t place boundaries on their art. I really learned how different feelings require different explanations, and what is important when performing those words to an audience. To this day, they’re the only ones that pull me back to Earth when I’m feeling scattered. What are some of your ultimate aims to accomplish this year? Have you set your heart out of when you'll be releasing a new album? I feel like artists are playing a bit of a guessing game with the industry right now, considering the condition that the world is in, but I think whatever goals we’ve had continue to remain. For instance, my main focus this whole year has been my upcoming project, the Better Mess – LP. I’ve always been deeply involved with every aspect of my work: writing the storyboards for the videos, designing the merch, making sure the music is authentic to its message – and now I’m watching it all come together for the LP release. “My Boyfriend” is the first single coming off the LP, introducing everyone to the Better Mess story.  I can’t announce an exact date, but be on the lookout end of September… It was great having you here with us! Do you plan on collaborating with anyone in the future? What would be your dream collaboration? I started collaborating with a few new artists/producers this year that I feel so blessed to have created with. I’m delighted to say that “Let Go” with Electronic/Dubstep producer D-SAB will be out in August; another collaboration with Italian producer Sound Surfer later in the year; and a few bangers with a great friend of mine, PlotTwist. He’s leaned his beautiful mind to more than one song on the LP as well! It would be an absolute dream to collaborate with BANKS and Jesse Rutherford/The Neighbourhood. Both of them combined is pretty much who I strive to be. What will you be working on next Ashley? After “My Boyfriend,” I’ll be focusing on the Better Mess experience, namely the visuals that’ll accompany several of the tracks. Since people are indoors, and rightly so, I want to make sure that audiences can still experience Better Mess in a medium that they can engage with from home. Live shows deepen people’s personal connections to songs. These visuals will provide that deeper discovery that’s found when looking at art through a different, and sometimes even more revealing, lens. instagram.com/ashzarah facebook.com/AshleyZarahMusic #BUZZMUSIC

Hailing from Philadelphia, the fiery pop/punk 4-piece The Things We Were drops their lively lovesick single "Plaid Shoes and Tattoos." Making up The Things We Were are; dual vocalists Dylan Garforth (guitarist) and Thomas Jay (guitarist), Jonah Greenberg (bass), and Jake Siegel (drums). Explaining that their single "Plaid Shoes and Tattoos" is the band's first angsty lovesick track, The Things We Were truly strike similarities to a prime 1999 Blink-182. Through exhilarating punk instrumentals that showcase the band's power, "Plaid Shoes and Tattoos" touches on the realization of needing to move forward from someone who keeps you stagnant and is in the way of your dreams. Opening "Plaid Shoes and Tattoos" with filtered drums from Jake Siegel that gradually grow into a whole sound, we can feel the nostalgia surface immediately. Moving into flame-throwing melodies through Dylan Garforth and Thomas Jay's punchy electric guitars and Jonah Greenberg's melodic bassline, Dylan Garforth begins singing with incredible clarity and poise. The lyrics he brings forward highlight a troubled relationship, and not knowing where it might lead to while finding the inner strength to pick yourself up and leave. The Things We Were take the outro by storm and leaves "Plaid Shoes and Tattoos" with striking power that leaves us wanting more of the fiery 4-piece. Welcome to BuzzMusic, The Things We Were! You guys provide such pure energy with your recent single "Plaid Shoes and Tattoos." Could you tell us where you initially found inspiration for the song This song actually first came about on thanksgiving night in 2019. Our two main songwriters were going through similar situations at the time and we wanted to use that emotion to help drive the sound and meaning of the song. Both were going through the toughest breakups we have both ever experienced and we knew that we had to use that energy and emotion to put into our music because it would help give listeners an inside to our personal lives. We used heavier instrumental and darker lyrics to convey anger and sadness throughout and we definitely feel we got our point across with it. The Things We Were mentioned that "Plaid Shoes and Tattoos" is your first angsty lovesick track. What message did you want to tie in with the song for listeners to learn from and takeaway? What we really wanted listeners to grasp from a lyrical standpoint is that it’s okay to not always feel at fault when things go wrong. There are always two sides to a tragedy and you don’t always have to feel like the one who caused it. The instrumentals within "Plaid Shoes and Tattoos" are very lively and also nostalgic. What sort of atmosphere were The Things We Were going for when laying down the instrumentals? We crafted it with our producer, Andy Karpovck, who we work so well with. We definitely wanted an upbeat, hard, and heavy instrumental that is fun to listen to but also goes with such meaningful lyrics. To us, it helped us highlight multiple sides of a heartbreak spectrum, being anger and sadness. We've seen that The Things We Were are an incredibly dynamic band through your unpredictable and exciting sound. Why do you think so many people (and of different ages) can enjoy and relate to your music? We honestly think that people can relate to our music so much because we take as much time as we can focus on relatable topics. We love for our music to be personal and meaningful to not only us but to our fan base. We want to send a message that when you’re going through good or bad times, we’ve all been there and you always have someone that can relate to you. What's next for you Next up for us is our last production and recording sessions for our debut album. We’re really excited that we’ve been given such tremendous opportunities and we can’t wait to share what we’ve been working on with the rest of the world. instagram.com/thethingswewere facebook.com/TheThingsWeWere #BUZZMUSIC