In The Spotlight

Madison Olds – “If You Wanna”

Hailing from Kamloops, BC, this bubbly Canadian singer and songwriter was born into a very musical family. She started dancing at 4 and began taking singing seriously aged 12. Inspired by Julia Michaels, Ed Sheeran and Billie Eilish, she debuted her gritty and honest alt-pop sound on her 2017 single “Moments In The Mountains” and went on to open for the likes of Willie Nelson and Kacey Musgraves.

Instantly drawing you in with her slightly country vocals over an infectious funky bass, her new single is a junction where several sonic influences meet. Taken from her new EP “Drowning In My Thoughts”, the tune slowly builds up element by element. From handclaps and finger snaps to fiery drums and a buoyant production, this invigorating groove is brimming with a virulent contemporary bounce.

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In The Spotlight

Kara Frazier – “I Wanna Be Your Woman”

Raised in Jacksonville, this Nashville-based songstress began singing and songwriting aged 10, surrounded by the classic soul of Nina Simone and Etta James. Growing up in church and a divided home, she infuses her lyrics with tales of her complicated past. Influenced by the vocals of Adele and Amy Winehouse, she debuted her lavish classic soul, organic pop and jazz fusion on “Deliver Me” in 2018.

Accompanied by the funkalicious horns of The Aquaducks, her new single celebrates the sumptuous classic soul sound of the 50s and 60s. With a sultry melody of mellow drums, retro organ and rousing brass creating a steamy atmosphere, she narrates her heartfelt story with passion and pizzazz. And with a silky and sensuous sax solo, this soulful tune sounds like a long lost gem from yesteryear.

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In The Spotlight

Charmplay – “Rush”

Formed in 2017 in Hilversum, this Dutch indie-pop quartet consists of Robert Been, Sergei Christian, Kaj van Hooijdonk and Gio Sliwa. They initially achieved success as a touring band in 2018, playing across Europe and the Dutch Antilles. Drawing inspiration from bands like The Killers, Bastille and The 1975, they debuted with “In The Mood” in 2020 and performed as support act for Sheppard.

With a sophisticated production blending indie-pop with sunlit tropical tones, their new single gives the intricate melody some summery island vibes. Kicking off with a mellow indie pop foundation, they soon shower it with sunshiny luminescence. With lively drums, joyous guitars and exuberant vocals tugging at your dancing feet, this zesty, high-spirited tune will rush you straight to paradise.

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In The Spotlight

Mabes – “Radio”

Hailing from Billericay, this British singer and songwriter grew up with music-loving parents. She learnt to play guitar and started writing her own songs aged 15, after listening to the folk poetry of Laura Marling. Drawing inspiration from wide-ranging artists such as John Mayer, Carole King and Kings Of Leon, she debuted her authentic and honest folk-pop sound on her single “Free” in 2019.

Her inimitable songwriting skills truly take centre stage on her latest single. Effortlessly blending her familiar folk-pop sound with a bit of a country twang and oodles of charm, she packs the refined tune full of relatable lyrics about hearing a song that transports you back in time to fond memories. With easy-going guitars, crisp piano and her carefree voice, this mellow gem is ready for the radio.

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In The Spotlight

Cool Company – “Aqua Girl”

Consisting of vocalist Yannick Hughes and producer Matt Fishman, this Brooklyn-based duo met in a choir in high school. While Yannick was always singing as a kid, Matt started playing the trombone and plays several others. Drawing inspiration from Motown to The Weeknd (Yannick) and Stevie Wonder to The Beatles (Matt), they debuted their hiphop/soul blend on their self-titled album in 2013.

Fusing contemporary sounds and effects with buttery-smooth, soul-dripping R&B, their new single is a refreshing splash in a sonic pool. While the modern beats keeps the track in the here and now, it’s the 90s-infused R&B melody, the retro rap and soul-dipped vocals that showers you in a time-traveling drizzle. Arousing and infectious, this lush jam is drenched in vintage R&B vibes.

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In The Spotlight

Sophia Fracassi – “Somebody”

Hailing from a small town called Everett, this youthful Canadian singer and songwriter began performing at the age of 5 and wrote her first song aged 9. She’s had eleven years of voice training, honing her impressive mezzo soprano range. Inspired by the music of Joni Mitchell, Taylor Swift and Alessia Cara, she debuted her emotive and rich pop sound on “Wish I Never Met You” earlier this year.

Creating intricate melodies and honest lyrics with a skill well beyond her years, her new single draws listeners into her musical world. Starting the song with a lavish and emotive acoustic piano is instantly spellbinding, while her seasoned vocals deal with the overwhelming feelings of loneliness. With the imposing tune ascending to a mighty crescendo in the chorus, this is a multi-layered sensation.

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