In The Spotlight

Nicola De Sensi – “23”

Hailing from Sydney, this Australian singer and songwriter was born with a passion for music and performing. At a young age she was already singing in choirs and taking part in musicals. As she got older she progressed to busking on the streets of Cronulla. In 2022 she was a contestant on The Voice reaching the top 4. She’s currently studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. Inspired by Ariana Grande, Billie Eilish and Whitney Houston, she released her debut “Realign” in 2023.

With quite poignant lyrics about feeling the need to act small to make a relationship work, her new single captures the moment when pretending becomes too much to bear. Enticing us in with a slight sonic shimmer, the song opens up with sanguine drums and an acoustic guitar. Gradually infusing the melody with an upbeat pop sparkle, she guides us to a full-bodied, retro-touched chorus. And with her sincere, emotive vocals, this heartfelt pop bop knows the way to your heart.

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In The Spotlight

Rogan Mei – “Lefroy”

Originally from Barrie, Ontario, this Canadian singer and songwriter started making music at the age of 12 as a therapeutic tool to deal with his mothers illness. Despite always keeping music close, he started his adult life as a Wildland Firefighter for years. Influenced by his mentor David Goggins, he decided to leave firefighting and focus on music full-time. He studied songwriting at Seneca College in Toronto. Inspired by Jack Johnson and John Mayer, he debuted with “Jack Kerouac” in 2023.

Drawing inspiration from a painting of Mt. Lefroy by Lawren Harris, his new single is a lyrical metaphor for emotional contemplation. Taken from his upcoming EP “Dickies Green Plaid Jacket”, expected later in the year, the song was recorded in the actual house he grew up in, using authentic instruments. With an easygoing ebb and flow from the mild acoustic guitar, soft violin and mellow drums bringing the picture to life, it’s the delicate velvet of his vocals that makes this a genuine gem.

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In The Spotlight

Filiah – “Sad Girl With A Punchline”

Based in Vienna, this Austrian singer and songwriter was raised by a music-loving mother, with whom she had carpool karaoke sessions in the car on the way to school. Singing anything from Fleetwood Mac to Diana Krall, she slowly developed her love for music. Although an introvert at heart, she learned to perform by putting on shows for her mother, leading to her eclectic musical journey. Inspired by boygenius, Phoebe Bridgers and St. Vincent, she released her debut “Hide” in 2019.

Embracing her inner introvert who always feels like an outsider, her new single takes us on an emotional journey from self-criticism to self-acceptance by turning all the hurtful moments in life into a punchline. Melodically the song is an intricate blend of pop-rock and a touch of folk. It starts with an effervescent beat and shimmering synths and is embellished with sparkling guitars. And with her dynamic vocals injecting sheer empowerment, this is a personal and intoxicating tune.

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In The Spotlight

Jóhannes Stefán – “Road Trip”

Hailing from the coastal town Seltjarnarnes, this Icelandic singer and songwriter grew up in a music-loving environment. He spent many an evening with family and friends, singing songs around the piano. This cosy familial warmth contributed to the development of his passion for heartfelt storytelling and acoustic melodies, creating a truly authentic folk-pop sound. Drawing inspiration from artists like Cat Stevens, Simon & Garfunkel and Bob Dylan, he debuted with “Hush My Darling” in 2024.

Narrating the story of a group of friends who escape the day-to-day rat race and exchange it for an adventure, his new single was actually based on his own experiences. Creating a dreamy soundscape by fusing soft retro rock and airy pop sensibilities, the song starts with a welcoming acoustic guitar. While the melody progresses, some silken strings join the orchestration. And with intoxicating harmonies and his emotive vocals, this smooth tune allows the listener to just float away.

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In The Spotlight

Dave Fenley – “Here To Heaven”

Hailing from Lufkin, Texas, this singer and songwriter was raised on a blend of country, soul and a touch of rock. In school he already fronted a small rock band. He later became a semi-finalist on America’s Got Talent and a move to Nashville led to him supporting Miranda Lambert with his new band Jukebox Mafia. In 2018 he was a contestant on The Voice, getting eliminated in week 4. Inspired by Willie Nelson, George Jones and Otis Redding, he released his debut single “Quitter” in 2016.

Revelling in the sheer beauty true lasting love can bring, his new single is pure romanticism put to music. Capturing his lyrical love letter is a charmingly smooth melody that feels like a warm comforting embrace. With a soft electric guitar, mild bass and a mellow rhythm welcoming us along on his sentimental journey, he creates a warmhearted ambiance. And with his authentic, heartfelt vocals celebrating endless love, this easygoing groove blends silky soul with a touch of country.

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In The Spotlight

Cindy-Louise – “Closer To Me”

Born in South Africa and based in The Netherlands, this multifaceted singer and songwriter began her musical journey at 16 when she started singing and piano lessons. While studying Music Philosophy at the University of Pretoria, she discovered opera. She performed Cosi Fan Tutte and The Marriage Of Figaro in Italy. She’s since swapped it for a pop, rock and jazz blend. Inspired by Selena Gomez, Dua Lipa and Ariana Grande, she released her debut single “Loving Me In Everyway” in 2020.

Trying to capture the longing for that someone special when you’re apart, while still feeling their presence in your heart, her new single details the strong connection felt when love is true. Setting the scene with smooth strings and warm bass plucks, the song evolves to an infectious summertime pop anthem. With a sparkling chorus of sunlit drums, luminous keys and her silken, flirtatious vocals, this upbeat pop groove combines a sunny, playful vibe with infatuating romanticism.

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