In The Spotlight

Chris Bates – “Takeaway Cup”

Hailing from Auckland, this rising New Zealand singer and songwriter was raised on classical violin, but switched to pop music aged 13. Listening to his dad’s pop CD’s, he discovered a love for songwriting. He started performing at various open mic nights and busking regularly. Drawing inspiration from artists like Phil Collins, Bruno Mars and John Mayer, he released his debut “Say The Word” in 2018.

Singing about a future love and the infinite possibilities of what kind of person that might be, his new single is a lyrical daydream, wrapped in an airy pop melody. From the bold guitar plucks to the infectious rhythm, this track explores every jubilant side of pop music. And with some sweetened synths and his contemporary vocal skills, this is an euphoric tune, filled with endless warmth and hope.

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes

In The Spotlight

Samantha Schultz – “Day By Day”

Born in Edmonton, this Canadian singer and songwriter started honing her craft performing in folk clubs and festivals in her home country. She studied at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. Now based in Los Angeles, doing session work and performing live allowed her to develop her skills further. Inspired by Lianne La Havas and Allen Stone, she released her debut “Both Sides” in 2006.

Encouraging the listener to take a step back and reflect on our accomplishments so far and how that influenced who we are as a person, her new single is filled with mellow musical magic. Merging soft jazzy tones with silky soul and a dash of laid-back R&B, it’s the warm percussion and velveteen piano that will enchant your ears. And with her creamy vocals, this sleek jam feels like a soothing hug.

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes

In The Spotlight

Maisy Kay – “After Midnight”

Originally from a small town in England, this Los Angeles-based singer/songwriter got her start when her school put on a musical she made aged 10. She moved to L.A. at 13. Since she’s collaborated with Timbaland and Tiësto and recorded the song “The Storm” sung in Na’vi, the fictional language from Avatar. Inspired by Freddie Mercury and Adele, she released her debut “Blood Filled Tears” in 2015.

Capturing the chemistry felt when you see that enticing person across the bar, her new single is a tale about falling in love. Taken from her upcoming EP “Metamorphosis”, expected in November, this invigorating track blends electronic dance elements with an insatiable neo-disco vibe. With reverbing bass plucks, spirited beats and sweet violins, it’s really hard to sit still with this red-hot groove.

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website | iTunes

In The Spotlight

Echo Thrills – “Paradiso”

Brainchild of Stockholm native artist Oskar Jennefors, this Swedish music project blends elements of soul, disco and psychedelic rock of the 70s. Having music in his life since childhood, he started DJing in his bedroom as a teenager. He’s created an unique sonic world in which listeners go on an auditory journey. Inspired by Marvin Gaye, Roy Ayers and Tame Impala, he debuted with “In A Dream” in 2023.

Effortlessly fusing wide-ranging elements into a breezy, vintage-touched summery tune, his new single becomes buoyant and yet laid-back. Taken from his debut EP “Destination Utopia”, he infuses the melody with an old-school house beat, vitalizing synths, a touch of funk and ear-stroking sonic sunbeams. And with his silky smooth vocals, this is a groove that takes you straight to paradise.

Instagram | Facebook | iTunes

In The Spotlight

Erica Manzoli – “Good Guys Gone”

Hailing from South London, this British singer, songwriter and musician started at a young age playing flute in a children’s orchestra. She’s also self-taught on piano. At 14 she enrolled in the renowned BRIT School and developed her songwriting skills. Inspired by artists such as Lorde, Gracie Abrams and Sufjan Stevens, she debuted her vibrant pop sound on “My Best Friend Is My Therapist” in 2022.

Noticing with frustration that there don’t seem to be any good men left, her new single is influenced by her feeling unlucky in love after a breakup. With a slightly vintage layer to the spirited melody, it’s the gripping bass plucks, driving beat and refreshing guitars that give the tune a bouncy zest. And with her honey-sweet vocals marinating every note, this is an empowering and energetic groove.

Instagram | Facebook | iTunes

In The Spotlight

CJ Pandit – “Flowers Made Of Lego”

Born and raised in Leicester, this British singer and songwriter is also a multi-instrumentalist and producer. He grew up listening to the Top 40 tunes of the time. Influenced by the spirit and artistic scene of his home town, his personal musical journey began at 16 and he honed a unique pop sound. Inspired by Talk Talk, Bee Gees and Peter Gabriel, he released his debut “Karelu” in 2019.

Brimming with sweet love and singing about giving love at first sight something truly lasting, his new single blends clever lyrics with a breezy vintage vibe. Taken from his upcoming album “One Lost English Boy”, expected on February 2nd, 2024, it has a laid-back, soul-infused 70s feel that washes over you like warm waves. And with his easygoing vocals, this is a lush tune that will never decay.

Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | iTunes