In The Spotlight

Haley Johnsen – “Goner”

Born in Portland, this prolific singer and songwriter grew up as a competitive gymnast, which gave her the drive to go outside her comfort zone. This also translated to her songwriting skills and in a span of three years she penned over 200 songs in her parents’ shed. Influenced by powerhouse voices like Grace Potter, Brandi Carlile and Annie Lennox, she debuted with “Feel The Water” in 2015.

Written in a bathtub in a vintage trailer in the midst of an existential crisis, her new single is a soul-searching journey put to music. Laying a dreamy soundscape foundation, it’s the breezy guitars, 70s-touched folky vibes and a perky rhythm that fuse into a sun-drenched groove. And with her honey-dipped vocals coasting the soundwaves, this vivid nostalgic daydream is here to stay.

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In The Spotlight

Handsome Jack – “Roll It”

Formed in 2004 and hailing from Lockport, New York, this rock trio gained their name playing a fusion of blues, R&B and garage rock they like to call ‘Boogie Soul’. Consisting of Jamison Passuite, Joey Verdonselli and Bennie Hayes, they started touring with their swaggering 70s-style blues rock sound and shared the stage with Blue Cheer and The J. Geils Band. They debuted with “Time Will Tell” in 2011.

Dedicated to their old rust bucket of a tour van, their new single takes slight whimsical lyrics and wraps them in a titillating groove. Taken from their upcoming album “Get Humble”, expected to drop on October 29th, they gave it a rock-dipped, rich, classic soul vibe. With bright, vintage guitars, 60s-inspired rhythm and powerful, soul-infused vocals, this is a standout tune where old and new meets.

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In The Spotlight

Chloe Florence – “Ego Pleaser”

Born and raised in Montreal, this Canadian singer and songwriter grew up in a musical family, with many family members singing, playing multiple instruments and even writing lyrics. She began piano and voice lessons aged 8 and recently added guitar to her skills. Taking inspiration from artists like Stevie Nicks, Patti Smith and Lana Del Rey, she debuted her R&B/pop blend on “Nightmare” in 2020.

The title track of her latest EP introduces a character, who’s story is narrated throughout the songs. Effortlessly blending a contemporary R&B vibe with her classically-sounding, jazzy blues vocal magic, this jam is an unique amalgam. With warm bass plucks, a relentless rhythm and her fiery voice finding their sonic way to your soul, this glamorous groove is not just an ego, but an ear pleaser.

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In The Spotlight

Michaela – “Dirty Dancing”

Hailing from Hertfordshire, this vivid British singer and songwriter started writing original songs in her teens. During the following years she’s honed her musical skills and developed her own R&B/pop blended sound working with Grammy nominated producers and writers across Europe. Influenced by Charlie Puth and The Weeknd, she debuted with her single “Tears In My Eyes” earlier this year.

Forging a fusion of contemporary production and a slew of retro elements, her new single dazzles from the first enticing notes. Soon moving into a deliciously punchy groove, it’s the infectious electronic disco rhythm and sizzling synths that gives this glamorous tune a bright sparkle. And with her refreshing and crisp vocals teasing your ears, this lush jam will have you dancing, dirty or not.

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In The Spotlight

Michael Oakley – “Real Life”

Born in Glasgow in 1982, this Scottish singer, songwriter, musician and producer honed his craft working the cover band scene in his home town. In 2016 he moved to Los Angeles, but settled in Canada in 2018. He played the Outland Festival in both Glasgow and Toronto. Drawing inspiration from artists like the Pet Shop Boys, Sting and Depeche Mode, he debuted with “Turn Back Time” in 2016.

Sounding like a long lost gem from dusty vaults from the 80s, his new single celebrates the cinematic synthwave sound of the decade. Taken from his album “Odyssey”, the track blends a power pop ballad with elements of retro rock. With a sparkle from the full-bodied synths and seductive sax, it’s his Phil Collins-like vocals that make this bewitching tune a welcome sonic journey to yesteryear.

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In The Spotlight

Taura Lamb – “No Comparison”

Born in the Midlands, this British singer, songwriter and producer traveled to London to study music at Goldsmiths. Discovering an affinity for music production and honing her skills as a writer, she landed a credit on “Tied Up” by The Magician and Julian Perretta. Drawing inspiration from Sabrina Claudio, Mahalia and Ayelle, she debuted her unique R&B sound on the single “Good Summer” in 2019.

Entering a hazy, easygoing and flirtatious sonic world, her new single is blends a seemingly simple, velvety R&B melody with a touch of soul. Seduced by sleek guitar riffs, mellow percussion and some summery bird tweets, she’s created a natural soundscape for her pristine vocals to enamour your ears. With multi-layered, rich tones and a delightful chill factor, this is an exceptional and pure tune.

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