In The Spotlight

Lulise – “Read My Hips”

Born as Suzanne Elise Gutierrez, this sparkling Los Angeles-based singer and songwriter earned a Bachelor Degree in vocal performance from the Musician’s Institute. For the past three years she was the Honey in the pop duo Honey & Jude. Having adopted a new moniker, she’s taking her cultivated R&B sound on an exciting new solo adventure. On June 2nd she’ll start a residency at L.A.’s Songbird CafĂ©.

With a steamy and ravishing ambiance, her satiny debut single is wrapped in seductive R&B heat. Reminiscent of the buttery-smooth diva’s of the early noughties, the sleek guitar plucks accompany her lustrous, silky vocals, before the addition of a mellow rhythm and creamy harmonies complete this enchanting gem and leave you feeling enamored and ready for a slow-dance until dawn.

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In The Spotlight

The Modern Strangers – “Magic Hour”

British brothers Max and Archie Davenport were born and raised in Tunbridge Wells and dreamed about being in a band. After finishing college, they added Jimmy Goodwin, Will Wilkinson and Patrick Murphy and their dream became reality. They debuted with the single “Vanilla” in 2016 and have played their exhilarating live set at festivals like The Great Escape and supporting Flor on their European tour.

Combining their shared fascination with disco and a contemporary indie pop sound, their new single radiates glistening neon sunbeams from every groove. Taken from their upcoming EP, expected on July 12th, a smooth beat and sleek vocals lead to an infectious chorus filled with sizzling synths and gleaming guitars, which blend an exultant summery feel with adrenaline-fueled disco vibes.

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In The Spotlight

Amira B – “Do You”

Born in Egypt and raised in Russia, this dazzling singer and songwriter has now found her home in New York City. Compared to singers like Joss Stone, Beverley Knight and Corinne Bailey Rae, she blends soul, R&B and funk into a fresh sound which joins nostalgia with an urban pop vibe. She released her debut album “Defined” in 2017 and is currently the resident artist at the Rockwood Music Hall.

Dripping with sweet, soulful honey, her new single turns the melody down to an easygoing, vintage-touched R&B vibe. The smooth rhythm, laidback bassline and mellow guitars sound like a silky 70s soul ballad and allows her luscious, sugar-coated vocals to take center stage. Singing about self-love and acceptance, its rich, velvety texture adds a soothing quality to this delectable melodic nectar.

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In The Spotlight

Michalangela – “No Destination”

Michal Angela Wilson was born in Moscow, ID and raised in a music-loving home. Upon graduation from the Lionel Hampton School Of Music in 2006 she moved to Portland, OR, where she immersed herself in its rich music scene. Inspired by artists like Erykah Badu, Jill Scott and D’angelo, her versatile sound spans soul, rock, jazz and R&B. In 2008 she released her jazzy debut album “Portland Rain”.

Co-written with multi-talented Steveland Swatkins back in 2010, it is high time that this track gets its rightful place in the limelight. The laidback, funkalicious vibe formed by the use of organic instruments, like the sleek organ and polished percussion, radiates a joyous quality to feed her soulful vocals, while the electric guitar solo adds an elated energy, making this funky blend a must-hear destination.

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In The Spotlight

Evan David Warner – “Shine To Share”

Growing up in Vermont with the music of James Brown and Michael Jackson, this multi-talented, Amsterdam-based artist started writing catchy, nonsensical songs at a young age. Over time he developed his own style, influenced by Tame Impala, The Doors and Talking Heads and is a multi-instrumentalist, playing guitar, drums and piano. He debuted with his EP “Going To Atlantis” in 2017.

His new single takes a leaf out of the book of vintage funk and creates an exhilarating tale. With an invigorating seventies wah-wah guitar, a powerful rhythm and a sweeping electric guitar solo describing the melodious fantasy, it’s his smokey, soul-filled vocals which truly make this story come to life. Binding a funkalicious fable with a retro-dipped narrative, this is an enthralling, groovy yarn.

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In The Spotlight

Whitney McClain – “Fireplace”

Virtually born with a (toy) microphone in her hand, this inspirational soulstress grew up in Salem, OR, listening to Motown, Earth, Wind & Fire and Amy Winehouse. Managed by her uncle Marlon McClain of the 70s funk/soul band Pleasure, she released her debut single “Bombs Away” in 2015 and hit over one million views on YouTube. In 2017 she played the Soul’d Out festival beside the Ohio Players.

Taking us on a historical melodic journey, her new single sounds like she delved deep into the crevices of classic 60s soul and found a forgotten gem. The smooth waves of the easygoing guitars, mellow rhythm and flirtatious bells gently roll over her velvety vocals, which blend vintage soul with modern R&B and wrap themselves around you and your loved one, while you snuggle up by the fireplace.

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