In The Spotlight

Michael Gerow – “Standing In The Fire”

Hailing from St. Louis, this gifted singer and songwriter’s passion for music has been evident since he was only 6 and he’s been building an impressive career since. He was a contestant on Season 19 of American Idol at the age of 16 and was eliminated during the duets round. Inspired by artists like Sam Smith, Rex Orange County and Mac Ayres, he debuted with “When The Lights Are Low” in 2023.

With emotional, heartfelt lyrics about regretting breaking a lover’s heart, his new single captures true vulnerability in a smooth and elegant melody. Taken from his same-titled EP, he starts the song with understated keys to emphasize his atoning words. The mellow rhythm adds body, while his poignant and sensitive vocals give this delicate ballad a heartwarming authenticity and honesty.

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes

In The Spotlight

Kibra – “James”

Born as Kibra Tesfaye, this Toronto-based Canadian singer and songwriter is making her mark with a hybrid fusion of R&B, classic soul and jazz vocals. She’s performed at the Toronto International Film Festival, SXSW in Austin and AfroChic in Ghana, as well as showcasing her talents with Sofar Sounds. Inspired by Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone and Beyoncé, she released her debut “3 Little Birds” in 2018.

Paying tribute to the legendary Etta James and in particular her song “I’d Rather Go Blind”, her new single welcomes you into her warm and cozy sonic world. Taken from her upcoming debut album “Soul Butter”, expected in 2024, it’s the soft, steady rhythm, soulful keys and her passionate R&B-laced vocal tone that’ll take the listener on an unforgettable and heartwarming musical journey.

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes

In The Spotlight

SKRAM – “Serendripity”

Based in Wellington, this New Zealand band was founded in 2021 by three school friends, of which Henry Ashby and Felix Nesbitt remain. Having created a bright pastel explosion of sheer sonic fun, they forged a rich fusion of genres and graced many a festival stage with their vibrant show. Inspired by artists from Tash Sultana to Coldplay and Maroon 5, they debuted with “Inside Your Head” in 2021.

Embracing ones uniqueness and self-expression, their new single is filled with empowering confidence. Infusing their pop-rock sound with a generous sprinkling of funky vibes, it’s the 80s-touched synths, dynamic rhythms and colorful guitars that form their fast-paced soundscape. And with their quirky vocals, this anthemic retro groove celebrates freedom of choice with glamorous panache.

Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes

In The Spotlight

Essy – “Untouchable”

Born as Rachel Braig, this Nashville-based singer and songwriter taught herself to play piano and started writing songs aged 11. She entered the Steinhardt summer program of NYU aged 15. While studying psychology at the University of Virginia, she started working with EDM duo Ship Wrek. Inspired by artist like MUNA, Robyn and Bruce Springsteen, she debuted solo with “Pulse” in 2019.

Filled with empowering positivity meant to inspired listeners to be their true selves in a toxic relationship, her new single is a celebration of glittering, 80s-infused synthpop. Easing you into her retro world with a pulsating beat, the track soon comes life with sprightly drums and the neon radiance of the synths. And with her powerful vocals, this vibrant groove is glowing with nostalgic vibes.

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes

In The Spotlight

Callow Cal – “She Loves You”

Based in Glasgow, this Scottish singer and songwriter grew up enamored with music, but his shyness prevented him from pursuing a performing career until the age of 26. Since he’s been experimenting to find his own sound, playing sets around his hometown. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Fall Out Boy, Paramore and The 1975, he debuted with “Tomorrow’s Never Guaranteed” in 2019.

Written as a letter to his former self and seemingly about someone on a destructive path and a partner who stands by them regardless, his new single is a perfect balance between his storytelling skills and a vibrant indie-rock melody. Instantly captivating with propulsive percussion, sizzling synths and bright guitars, it’s his engaging vocals that makes this rich tune a memorable sonic experience.

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes

In The Spotlight

Bree Rusev – “Summer Memories”

Hailing from Newcastle NSW, this Australian singer and songwriter started writing songs and performing mere months after first picking up a guitar aged 14. Since then she’s won the 2021 International Songwriting Competition with “Goodbye” and supported John Butler and Fergus James. Inspired by artists such as Ben Howard and Bon Iver, she debuted her emotive sound on “Coastline” in 2020.

Telling an all too familiar tale of summer love that came to its conclusion too soon, her new single wraps those memories in a warm, Australian sunshine. Accompanied by an acoustic guitar, she paints a vivid picture of the blossoming affair throughout the summer. Capturing the sonic breeze in the sunlit chorus, it’s her carefree vocals that fill this infectious tune with charisma and infatuation.

Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes