In The Spotlight

Melissa Bel – “Big Boys Don’t Cry”

Now permanently relocated to the UK, this Canadian songstress was born in Toronto and has been singing her whole life. She grew up listening to soul and classic rock and feels inspired by the music of Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin and Christina Aguilera. Their influence is reflected in her musical style, which is soulful, jazzy pop all covered in layers of vintage charm.

Her latest single is an exciting slice of upbeat retro pop, dipped in classic 60s doo-wop. A thrilling beat, lively sax and luscious harmonies set the stage for Melissa‘s sweet-sounding, energetic vocals. Meant to cheer you up after a breakup, this song is certainly catchy and uplifting and with its fun-filled, cheery groove, you cannot help but feel better after a broken heart.

From her EP “In The Light” (2016):

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In The Spotlight

Benji Sedoc – “Bet It All”

This Scandinavian singer/songwriter has his roots in Suriname, but was raised in Denmark. His eclectic style is inspired by sounds and rhythms from all over the world, but is build on classic soul, like Ray Charles and Donny Hathaway. He added jazz, modern soul and R&B influences to the mix to create a captivating blend which sounds honest and sincere.

His latest single is an enchanting soul/R&B ballad, which is mesmerizing and dreamy. The lyrics are a narrative about learning from the past and recognizing the important things in life. It has peaceful and polished instrumentation with soft percussion, acoustic strings and mellow brass, carrying his smooth-as-butter, velvety and soulful voice, which will touch your heart.

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In The Spotlight

Jared Grant – “Break Out”

Born in Curaçao and raised in The Netherlands, this singer/songwriter has pure old-school soul running through his veins. Inspired by legends such as James Brown, Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder, he decided to attend the Codarts conservatory in Rotterdam. He’s performed with Eliza Doolittle and Leon Ware and reached the semi-finals of The Voice Of Holland in 2016.

The first single of his debut album is impressive and obviously saturated with that vintage soul sound, but infused with old-school funk as well. It has a boisterous beat, playful electric guitar plucks, a tremendous brass bridge and astonishing soulful vocals, which feel like he’s channeling his childhood heroes mixed with a healthy dose of his own heartfelt virtuosity.

From his album “Back To My Roots” (2017):

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In The Spotlight

Big Akasha – “I Know Whatcha Gonna Do”

Big Akasha is a brand new funk band based in Los Angeles, consisting of producer and songwriter Jeffrey Maccora, who is mostly known for his work with indie band Mansions On The Moon, Stephen Baumann and singer Jasmine Gatewood. Maccora created the band as  a reflection of the records he grew up loving. Their music is produced in an old-school way, with minimal edits.

The result is a debut which is a catchy and captivating funky feast. With a phenomenal 70s groove, flawless production and full-bodied instrumentation, brimming with superb percussion, violins, piano and fabulous horns, not to mention the bewitching funky vocals of Jasmine singing the politically-charged lyrics, this song is as close to retro funk perfection as you can get.

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In The Spotlight

You, Me & The Other Folks – “I Won’t Cry”

This brand spanking new Dutch duo consists of singer/songwriter Sandy Dane and producer/multi-instrumentalist Gabriël Peeters, making up the You, Me part of their name. The Other Folks are constantly changing songwriters, vocalists and musicians. They describe their style as melancholic folk with pop and rock influences. Starting this month they’re going to release a new song every first of the month.

Their debut single is a beautiful ballad, delivering fully on their melancholic folk sound. It’s a very polished and accomplished production with tranquil instrumentation, from an acoustic piano and gentle percussion to sleek, orchestral violins. The emotionally laden, serene vocals complete this impressive debut, which will tug at your heartstrings while gently stroking your eardrums.

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In The Spotlight

Flights Over Phoenix – “Middle Of The World”

Singer/songwriter Keith Longo started performing in cover bands in Boston, but had higher aspirations. He packed up his car and headed west hoping to find like-minded musicians and form a band. First he found guitarist Chris Santillo, with whom he started writing and recording music. With the addition of drummer Jordan Nuanez the line up was complete and Flights Over Phoenix was born.

Their versatile sound is an organic blend of rock and contemporary pop, bound together with an 90s alternative vibe. Their latest single is high-energy ear-candy, brimming with catchy pop hooks, grandiose production and a universal message of self-empowerment. Add to that exceptional, creamy vocals and you get an anthemic gem that is highly memorable.

From their EP “Where I Comedown” (2017):

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