In The Spotlight

Sean Hassard – “Lemonade”

Born in Spain and raised internationally, this Montreal-based singer and songwriter has been playing music since receiving his first guitar aged 7. He started performing at 12 at talent shows and school parties in Europe, Canada, the Caribbean and US. Inspired by the likes of Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen and John Mayer, he debuted his soulful with a gritty fringe sound with “I’ll Come Around” in 2019.

Instantly bursting onto your eardrums with a punchy rhythm and bouncy bassline, his new single is a refreshing cocktail of indie-pop, a drop of funk and a splash of soul. Although lyrically tackling the deeply emotional topic of unrequited love, the joyous instrumentals are a thirst-quenching sonic beverage. And with an infectiously funky, multi-layered chorus, this is a cool glass of flavorful juice.

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In The Spotlight

Ella McCready – “Fine On My Own”

Hailing from London, this talented singer, songwriter, actor and voiceover artist has been singing and creating music as long as she can remember. Daughter of cellist Ivan McCready, she started gigging professionally with her dad aged 14. Since she’s performed all over the country in rock, soul and jazz bands. With her high-spirited soul/pop solo sound, she debuted with “You Saved Me” early 2021.

Narrating the deep scars left after a toxic relationship, her new single blends empowering lyrics with a vibrant melody. Drawing inspiration from Jess Glynne and Clean Bandit, she eases us into her sonic world with a piano and her soulful vocals, before being joined by funk-infused drums, effulgent strings and a relentless hook. Bubbly, passionate and fierce, this jam is an extraordinary groove.

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In The Spotlight

Anna-Sophie – “Let Me In”

Named after her two grandmothers, this Austrian singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist learned from a young age to sing, play the piano and guitar and of course drive a tractor. She’s also passionate about sports and advocacy in the eating disorder community. Currently living and studying in Switzerland, she introduced her bubbly pop sound on her 2020 debut single “Bad Habits”.

Sparkling with Katy Perry-esque contemporary fun-loving glitz, her new single sounds like pure joy in a melodic gift. Guiding us in with mellow synths and her seductive voice is a mere vessel to the bouncy, scintillating chorus. Filled with catchy hooks, vibrant electronic keys and her zesty vocal grit sending sunbeams from every note, this is a cheerful, effervescent groove you definitely want to let in.

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In The Spotlight

Jean-Mikhael – “Neighbours Are Calling”

This uber-talented singer, songwriter, actor and model grew up in London surrounded by creativity, from his mother being Boney M’s hair stylist to his grandfather who was a saxophonist in Chicago. He graduated from the BRIT School and played Michael Jackson in “Thriller LIVE” in the West-End. Also inspired by legends like Grace Jones and Prince, he released his debut EP “The Deal” in 2018.

Based on the true story of him actually disturbing his neighbours, as well as a tempestuous relationship, his tasty new single fuses vintage funk and classic soul with a R&B/pop relish. With funkalicious bass plucks, a sparkling rhythm and spicy keys creating the retro vibes, it’s his flirtatious falsetto voice that unites all elements. Funky, soulful and alluring, this jam is awe-inspiring ear-candy.

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In The Spotlight

Maya Delilah – “Need A Word With Cupid”

Based in London, this British singer and songwriter is a gifted guitarist first and foremost. She started having acoustic guitar lessons aged 8 and added the electric guitar aged 16, after entering the BRIT School where she studied music. Influenced by D’Angelo, John Mayer and Prince, she created a fusion sound blending lo-fi jazz, R&B and ska and released her debut “Tangerine Dream” in 2020.

Weaving personal lyrics about an emotional breakup experience into a masterfully written melody, her new single sparkles and shines like a diamond. Entering Cupids world with gentle harps, she then adds some mild keys while narrating her story. Blending smooth jazz, bubbly R&B and a soulful touch with her beguiling voice, it’s easy to fall in love with this silken, yet empowering sonic gem.

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In The Spotlight

Kristian North – “Halfway To Heaven”

Hailing from Montreal, this eclectic Canadian singer and songwriter spent over a decade as the frontman of punk band Babysitter. With a passion for exploring new musical genres and lyrical themes, his solo sound is an organic amalgamation of Warren Zevon’s soft-rock, Marvin Gaye’s downtempo groove and Roxy Music’s art pop. He released his solo debut album “The Last Rock N Roll Record” in 2018.

Fusing upbeat pop, lively soul and an excess of charisma, his new single binds the best elements of 80s music into one polished package. Taken from his new album “Passion Play”, it’s the mellow rhythm and the titillating horns that entice you in, where the neon-lit guitars and his suave, Bowie-esque vocal chops will enchant you. Showcasing his lyrical skills and musical mastery, this retro jam is superb.

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