In The Spotlight

Jóhannes Stefán – “Road Trip”

Hailing from the coastal town Seltjarnarnes, this Icelandic singer and songwriter grew up in a music-loving environment. He spent many an evening with family and friends, singing songs around the piano. This cosy familial warmth contributed to the development of his passion for heartfelt storytelling and acoustic melodies, creating a truly authentic folk-pop sound. Drawing inspiration from artists like Cat Stevens, Simon & Garfunkel and Bob Dylan, he debuted with “Hush My Darling” in 2024.

Narrating the story of a group of friends who escape the day-to-day rat race and exchange it for an adventure, his new single was actually based on his own experiences. Creating a dreamy soundscape by fusing soft retro rock and airy pop sensibilities, the song starts with a welcoming acoustic guitar. While the melody progresses, some silken strings join the orchestration. And with intoxicating harmonies and his emotive vocals, this smooth tune allows the listener to just float away.

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In The Spotlight

Dave Fenley – “Here To Heaven”

Hailing from Lufkin, Texas, this singer and songwriter was raised on a blend of country, soul and a touch of rock. In school he already fronted a small rock band. He later became a semi-finalist on America’s Got Talent and a move to Nashville led to him supporting Miranda Lambert with his new band Jukebox Mafia. In 2018 he was a contestant on The Voice, getting eliminated in week 4. Inspired by Willie Nelson, George Jones and Otis Redding, he released his debut single “Quitter” in 2016.

Revelling in the sheer beauty true lasting love can bring, his new single is pure romanticism put to music. Capturing his lyrical love letter is a charmingly smooth melody that feels like a warm comforting embrace. With a soft electric guitar, mild bass and a mellow rhythm welcoming us along on his sentimental journey, he creates a warmhearted ambiance. And with his authentic, heartfelt vocals celebrating endless love, this easygoing groove blends silky soul with a touch of country.

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In The Spotlight

Cindy-Louise – “Closer To Me”

Born in South Africa and based in The Netherlands, this multifaceted singer and songwriter began her musical journey at 16 when she started singing and piano lessons. While studying Music Philosophy at the University of Pretoria, she discovered opera. She performed Cosi Fan Tutte and The Marriage Of Figaro in Italy. She’s since swapped it for a pop, rock and jazz blend. Inspired by Selena Gomez, Dua Lipa and Ariana Grande, she released her debut single “Loving Me In Everyway” in 2020.

Trying to capture the longing for that someone special when you’re apart, while still feeling their presence in your heart, her new single details the strong connection felt when love is true. Setting the scene with smooth strings and warm bass plucks, the song evolves to an infectious summertime pop anthem. With a sparkling chorus of sunlit drums, luminous keys and her silken, flirtatious vocals, this upbeat pop groove combines a sunny, playful vibe with infatuating romanticism.

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In The Spotlight

Mimika – “Elevator”

Raised in Brampton, this Canadian singer and songwriter was born with a natural love for music pre-installed. She started writing her own material aged 12, plays piano, guitar and the flute and was releasing songs by 15. She graduated from Berklee College of Music in Boston and followed it with a North-American tour. She performed at venues like The Baby G and various festivals. Inspired by Jon Bellion, Julia Michaels and Britney Spears, she released her debut single “Civil War” In 2019.

Celebrating the courage to say yes to living life to the full and not having any regrets when you’re older, her new single encourages a cheeky bit of roguery. Built on her playful orchestral pop sound, the song starts slow with a soft synth key and mellow rhythm. Soon the joyous chorus bursts open and starts radiating summery vibes from the swaggering bass, colourful percussion and full-bodied horns. And with heavenly harmonies and her gleeful vocals, this is a glorious gem.

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In The Spotlight

Barbara – “Tolerant Nation”

Based in Brighton, this British duo consists of brothers John and Henry Tydeman. As kids they were already playing songs together at the piano, but five years ago they decided to form a band and pursue a musical career. Since then they’ve toured the UK extensively, playing venues like The Brunswick in Hove and supported The Divine Comedy, Haircut 100 and Paul Weller. Inspired by Electric Light Orchestra, The Kinks and Rufus Wainwright, they released their debut “Brb” in 2021.

Taking us back to the 70s with a Jeff Lynne-touched orchestral pop anthem, their new single asks the question just how tolerant is tolerance? Taken from their upcoming, self-titled, debut album, expected on September 5th, the melodic layering is truly exquisite. From a simple piano to the punchy percussion, various ear-stroking key-changes and exhilarating guitar solo, all ascending to a grand sonic crescendo, this majestic, retro-tinged groove is a musical experience.

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In The Spotlight

Rachel Bochner – “Silver Rings”

Hailing from New York City, this singer and songwriter has been an avid music lover her entire life, but her musical journey began in 2018 when she got an A&R internship with a record label. Immersed in the music scene, she found a passion for songwriting. She’s performed live shows at famed venues like the Mercury Lounge and the Brooklyn Bowl and collaborated with Xana and flowerovlove. Inspired by Lana Del Rey, Maggie Rogers and Julia Michaels, she debuted with “Purple” in 2020.

Singing about the intense yearning to be with that someone special, her new single combines her poetic lyrics with a sophisticated pop melody. Taken from her recently released album “Lovergirl (Deluxe)”, she starts the song with soft and moody guitar plucks. Then it slowly ascends, in the background of warm, multi-vocal harmonies, to a more lively chorus. With a bouncy percussion, fiery electric guitars and her hypnotic vocal charm, this mesmerizing groove has a bit of a sonic bite.

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