In The Spotlight

Cerise Valdez – “Things He Likes”

From a young age this rising singer and songwriter knew that she wanted to sing. She started singing aged 6 and followed her sister into singing in a choir, but preferred writing her own songs. She moved to Los Angeles in 2019 and attended Musicians Institute, graduating with a degree in Vocal Performance. With a sound likened to Lennon Stella and BENEE, she debuted with “Disco Baby” in 2021.

By first creating a hazy, alluring soundscape, like a breath-taking sunrise, before bursting to life with an upbeat electronic sparkle, her new single ticks all the right boxes. Singing about the honeymoon phase of a relationship where you spend everything to impress, leaving you in love but broke, it’s the funky rhythm, shiny synths and vivid vocals, that make this a tune you can’t help but like.

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In The Spotlight

Benedict Cork – “Miracle”

Born as Benjamin Cork in Hertfordshire, this versatile singer, songwriter and musician grew up in a large art-loving family. He started to play piano aged 8 and landed his first job playing piano in a restaurant aged 15. He’s since supported Emily King and Tom Walker and shared a stage with Stevie Wonder and Lionel Richie. He debuted together with Simon Jefferis on the single “Easy” in 2018.

Performing a musical balancing act by injecting just the right amount of an array of diverse genres, his new single is a present for your ears. First there are some modern electronic effects playing with the notes, before a smooth jazzy guitar and his soulful vocals lay the foundation. Soon the rhythm ascends and is joined by a gospel choir and a poppy melody unfolds, making it sound invigorating.

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In The Spotlight

Ludic – “Judge Me”

Hailing from Vancouver, this multi-talented Canadian trio got together to pursue groovy sounds from vintage and present soul, funk jazz and pop. Consisting of Ayla Tesler-Mabe, Rhett Cunningham and Max Cunningham, who are all multi-instrumentalists, they draw inspiration from icons like Stevie Wonder and Prince, as well as modern pioneers like Hiatus Kaiyote. They debuted with “My Love” in 2019.

Tackling the topic of feeling lonely in the middle of a relationship and being determined to mend it, their new single is a velvety-smooth amalgamation of genres. Taken from their upcoming debut EP, expected in April, the tune kicks off with a dreamy jazz guitar and Ayla’s enchanting vocals, before adding an upbeat funky rhythm and pop-inspired melody, making it a timeless and alluring groove.

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In The Spotlight

ELIZZA – “Unhurt”

Born as Eliza Salinieka in Latvia, this talented singer and songwriter moved to London at the age of 18 to study popular music performance at BIMM. After graduation in 2014, she started working with various music producers to hone her sound, which is a dreamy and poetic R&B/pop blend. Inspired by the likes of Joss Stone, The Weekend and SIA, she released her debut single “Mad For You” in 2016.

Narrating the relatable story of a relationship that didn’t work out, her new single is an expression of pure emotion. Building her stunning soundscape with an acoustic piano, delicate violin and her remarkable vocal passion, she filled the song with a lush authentic vulnerability and rich genuine sincerity. Lyrically poetic and musically gorgeous, this intense, heartfelt tune is a thing of beguiling beauty.

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In The Spotlight

McDermott & North – “All Things Come And Go”

Having met in the Embassy Bar in Brisbane in 2016, Paddy McDermott and Rhys North made a name for themselves as a popular busking duo. Since then, they’ve forged a vintage-dipped indie-folk sound. They’ve performed at Bluesfest and supported Ben Lee on stage. Inspired by the revolutionary songwriting of Neil Young and Bob Dylan, they debuted their EP “The Lemon Tapes Vol.1” in 2018.

Sonically celebrating life and the importance of living in the moment, their new single is a delightful blend of positivity, optimism and a flavorful helping of retro-rock. Opening with their vibrant Beatlesque harmonies, the rich melody forms around them with a 60s beat, sparkling guitars and fresh tambourine. Bursting with feel-good energy and a sunshiny luster, this jam is ear-stroking bliss.

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In The Spotlight

Rose Ranger – “Confession”

Hailing from Vancouver, this multi-talented Canadian singer, songwriter, producer and actress grew up dancing ballet, tap and jazz, exposing her to a variety of musical styles. She studied dance, voice/choir, acting and writing, among others, at various Universities and went on to open for Keith Urban and have songs featured in TV shows like Dawson’s Creek. She debuted with “Replies” in 2002.

Written as a musical love letter to someone you had chemistry with, but couldn’t make it work, her new single blends influences from the 90s with a contemporary feel. Creating a melodic vulnerability by starting with a soft, singular note and her Kate Bush-touched falsetto voice, this tune develops with an airy beat and Bruce Hornsby-like piano, filling this sonic confession full of chill vibes.

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