In The Spotlight

Maddisun – “Running”

Born on the west-coast of Canada as Maddison Keiver, this authentic singer/songwriter honed her skills in writing and performance while in high school. She spent 3 years in Europe, 2 of which in Ireland to explore Dublin’s rich music scene. Influenced by artists such as Sheryl Crow, Joni Mitchell and The Pretenders, she fuses folk, rock, soul and pop. She released her debut “Mountain Air” in 2020.

Adding another layer to her genre-spanning sonic palette, her new single has both classic country as soul influences. Taken from her album “Home Is Where The Music Is”, she describes the feeling that you’re just working to survive and that maybe your future is elsewhere. Keeping it laid-back with both acoustic and electric guitars, a gentle beat and her passionate vocals, this is a tune to run home for.

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In The Spotlight

Fiji Blue – “No Ties”

Based in Los Angeles, this rising duo was formed when singer and songwriter Trevor Dering met producer Valentin Fritz while they attended the Berklee School of Music in Boston. With a genre-bending blend of R&B and soul with pop and house, they created an unique sound. Influenced by artists such as John Mayer, Phoebe Bridgers and Calvin Harris, they released their debut single “Indigo” in 2018.

By fusing the best elements of classic R&B, a modern beat and a breezy West-Coast vibe, their new single is smooth and soulful. Taken from their album “I Loved You, What Happened?”, they enrich the emotive and vulnerable lyrics with their unique sonic brew. And with the addition of some leisurely horns and Trevor’s velveteen vocal tone stroking your ears, this enticing bop is an exceptional jam.

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In The Spotlight

John Gallen – “1970s”

Starting his solo music career at the age of 51, this Irish singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist surely bided his time. He taught himself piano and guitar by the age of 10 and worked as a lawyer for 30 years. He opened a studio in 1998, co-producing the 2000 album “In Blue” by The Corrs. Likened to artists like David Bowie, Bryan Ferry and Prince, he debuted with “Positive Attitude” in 2022.

Transporting the listener back to the titular decade, his new single infuses infectious pop-rock with vintage funk. Taken from his debut album “1970s”, released earlier this year, he starts the track with a mellow, Talking Heads-touched melody, before adding an energetic oomph to the chorus. With retro sounding pop-rock vibe enriched with lively horns and his refined vocals, this is an arousing jam.

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In The Spotlight

Maddie Leigh – “Morning After”

Born and raised in the small town of Temecula, this singer and songwriter discovered her love of music at a young age. She began singing in a church choir aged 6 and by 9 she was entering competitions and taking vocal lessons. Growing up she listened to classic country like George Strait and Trisha Yearwood. Influenced by Kelsea Ballerini and Luke Combs, she released her debut “Wishing” in 2016.

Taking the classic country twang, giving it a modern twist and telling a relatable love story, her new single is filled with raw, foot-tappin’ fun. Bursting with a jubilant melody of invigorating drums, howling guitars and joyous organ, the lively track pulls you onto the dance floor. And with her high-spirited vocal power adding a bit of sass, this country hoe-down will still be enjoyed the morning after.

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In The Spotlight

Sam Casey – “New Company”

Based in Toronto, this Canadian singer and songwriter started piano lessons at a young age and later added guitar. She attended a music school called Beyond The Beat. Initially sharing time with playing hockey, ultimately music took over. Now she’s writing and co-writing for other artists as well. Inspired by Miley Cyrus, Supertramp and Tame Impala, she debuted with “New & Used” in 2016.

As a fervent diarist, the lyrics of her new single were taken from one of her diary entries and describe a relationship with someone who wasn’t able to provide what she needed. Taken from her new EP, she blends hypnotic, smooth soul with 90s-styled R&B. Infusing the velveteen tune with honest emotion and a touch of sass, it’s her seductive vocals that will keep your ears company.

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In The Spotlight

The Harlem Gospel Travelers – “Look Up!”

Hailing from all corners of the five boroughs of New York City, this gospel-soul trio was born out of a non-profit program called Gospel For Teens. Led by blue-eyed soul master Eli ‘Paperboy’ Reed, singers Ifedayo Gading, George Marage and Dennis Bailey found their voice. Taught by listening to gospel groups like The Swan Silvertones and The Soul Stirrers, they debuted with “He’s On Time” in 2018.

Traveling back to the golden age of Motown and Stax soul music, their recent single is a celebration of the joyous place where soul and gospel meet. Taken from their upcoming album “Look Up!”, expected on September 16th, they’re polishing up the classic 60s soul sound, from the spirited rhythm and gleeful guitars to the cheery organ. And with their jubilant vocals, this is an exultant groove.

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