In The Spotlight

Emie Nathan – “Static”

Born in New York and raised in London, this emerging singer and songwriter grew up in a very musical house, surrounded by the jazz of Ella Fitzgerald and Eva Cassidy as well as pop of Elton John and rock of Queen. She was also a member of the Capital Children’s Choir. Inspired by artists such as Bon Iver, Maggie Rogers and Coldplay, she debuted her rich pop-noir sound on her EP “White Light” in 2021.

Showing her vulnerable side by singing about a defining moment in college where an innocent decision let to a scary situation, her new single wraps the honest lyrics in a dynamic melody. Musically journeying from senstive keys and guitar strums to a passion-injected chorus, the tune follows the emotional ups and downs of the narrative. Genuine and heartfelt, this is a riveting, empowering jam.

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In The Spotlight

Caitlynne Curtis – “Mood Swings”

Born in Boston, this singer and songwriter started singing aged 3 and taking vocal lessons at 6. Her parents moved the family to Nashville when she was 12 to further her career. Although an audition for The X-Factor resulted in rejection, it was rapper Struggle Jennings who discovered and signed her. Inspired by Miranda Lambert and Celine Dion, she released her debut “Soldier’s Daughter” in 2010.

Telling the emotional story of a couple who’s drug and alcohol use causes their relationship to become toxic, her new single wraps her deep metaphoric lyrics in a surprising uplifting melody. Blending touches of candied pop, hearty rock and fresh Americana into one infectious soundscape, it’s the vibrant guitar riffs, vivid drums and her luscious vocals that will definitely lighten your mood.

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In The Spotlight

Rayowa – “Good Life”

Hailing from Basildon, these three British brothers share a passion for retro soul, funk and disco and give it a modern edge. Dan, Reece and Luke Baker are self-taught multi-instrumentalists and play guitar, bass and piano. They introduced their vibrant live show in the Moth Club and have recently played alongside Diana Ross and Nile Rodgers & Chic. They debuted with “Better Man” in 2019.

With an uplifting glitterball sound straight from the 70s, their new single is a celebration of a feel-good disco-funk vibe. Lyrically encouraging to live in the moment, this sunlit tune starts with a futuristic synth before bursting into dazzling disco colors with wah wah guitars, joyful keys and retro violins. And with gleaming horns and suave vocals, this toe-tapping groove is jammed with positivity.

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In The Spotlight

Ekelle ft. Maïa Davies – “Be Free”

Hailing from Toronto, this genre-bending Canadian singer and songwriter knew she wanted a career in music when she found herself glued to the musical TV show “Hit List”. Finding inspiration in many different styles, she created her own sound called ‘Hood Pop’, combining hip hop, pop and R&B. Influenced by 90s pop like Destiny’s Child and the rap of Emimem, she debuted with “Destroyer” in 2017.

Featuring the vocals of co-writer Maïa Davies, her new single is an ingenious example of her eclectic Hood Pop blend. Starting with an invigorating 70s funk guitar and ascending disco violins, she lays down a spirited vintage tune, before injecting a layer of modern hip hop. Rapping about self-acceptance and the quest to find yourself, this buzzing disco groove is a bouncy retro dance floor filler.

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In The Spotlight

Ben McKelvey – “One For You”

Born in Brentwood, this British singer, songwriter and musician started playing music at 14 as the drummer of a pop-punk band. Since then he learned to play guitar and evolved to a folk-rock sound. He’s performed worldwide opening for Wet Wet Wet and Scouting For Girls. Inspired by legends Johnny Cash, Bruce Springsteen and Paul Weller, he debuted with “A Hundred Thousand Welcomes” in 2013.

Time to sit back, close your eyes and just let the music roll over you, because his new single has a soothing, laid-back vibe that your eardrums are just going to love. With a repetitive rhythm as the backbone, it’s the added playful acoustic guitar, the touch of country from a steel guitar and the panache of the chorus that give his fresh vocals the chance to shine and make this jam clearly one for you.

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In The Spotlight

Cecilia Castleman – “Lonely Nights”

Based in Nashville, this rising singer and songwriter was born into a family of musicians and raised on a steady diet of diverse music, ranging from Fleetwood Mac to Bonnie Raitt and J.J. Cale. After her parents’ divorce when she was 11, she dealt with her emotions using a guitar and a pen. Though self-taught on guitar, bass and keys, she went to The Blackbird Academy for a studio engineering course.

Describing the feeling of isolation caused by loneliness, her debut single introduces her intricate and emotive songwriting skills. With a sound that is reminiscent of the folk-pop songwriters of the 70s, she’s created an honest melody with a mix of acoustic and electric guitars and a mellow rhythm. And with her honey-sweet vocals singing her poetic lyrics, this luscious tune has a timeless quality.

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