In The Spotlight

Somebody Someone – “Better”

Born as Aubrey Hays and hailing from Gulfport, MS, this singer and songwriter grew up in a music-oriented household. By the time they were 10, they were already performing with a family band at weddings and even opened for Blake Shelton at the Crawfish Music Festival. Now based in Austin and inspired by artists like The Beach Boys, Fiona Apple and Brandi Carlile, they initially debuted under their own name on “Isn’t It Enough”. They’re now entering a new phase under a new moniker.

Based on their own experiences of finding themselves and their own identity, their new single is both deeply personal and melodically spellbinding. Starting with an alluring acoustic piano, soft strings and an angelic backing choir, this exquisite ballad is truly breathtaking. Pouring pure passion into the notes, the melody reaches down and touches your soul. And with their charismatic, melancholic vocals narrating the honest lyrics, this wistful tune is an enthralling treasure.

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In The Spotlight

Isla Rico – “Lost On You”

Formed by Cal Richards and Jasper Whitehead and later joined by Harvey Rafferty, this Manchester-based British trio was named after the homemade tiki bar where they met and connected over a shared mission to start a band. Influenced by the music they grew up with, they created their own flavour of indie Brit-Pop. They’ve shared a stage with The Grogans and performed at festivals like The Great Escape and Years End. They debuted with “Laying In The Summer Rain” in 2021.

With contemplative lyrics exploring the inner conflict between wanting and self-doubt, their new single is an upbeat fusion of alternative pop and rock. Instantly gripping from the first rolling percussion, the song bursts into a delicious brew of retro 90s and early 00s britpop. With refreshing synths, invigorating drums and joyous electric guitars laying down the sparkling melody, it’s the charismatic vocals the tie all elements together into a vintage-dipped sonic treat.

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In The Spotlight

Katie Kadan – “Unless I Fall In Love”

Hailing from Chicago, this flamboyant singer and songwriter was born into a very musical family. Her first performance was at the tender age of 3 in her church. Over time she sang in various choirs and did a short stint in a conservatory. However it was singing at the Underground Wonder Bar that started opening doors for her. She earned third place in Season 17 of The Voice. Inspired by Carole King, Gladys Knight and Smokey Robinson, she debuted with “Katie Kadan Loves Me” in 2017.

Filled with sheer empowerment and a well-earned abundance of self-worth, her new single pushes those who put conditions on love away and celebrates having an open heart to be able to love unconditionally. Melodically blending the best of passionate soul and minor touches of pop and blues, she’s created an imposing tune. Starting softly with mellow keys, the song soon erupts with a bouncy rhythm and flavorful guitar. And with her commanding vocals, this is a mighty, emotive gem.

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In The Spotlight

Never Ending Fall – “Isabel”

Formed at the age of 10 in a rural Maryland school, these five childhood friends got together for a talent show. Consisting of Jack Miller, Tommy StClair, Conrad Boyd, Pearce Eisenhardt and Johnny Hohman, they got their start playing a funky jazz style. After a move to Los Angeles they focused on an alt-rock sound and got noticed through their ‘Can It Kirkland’ TikTok series. Inspired by Phoenix, Kings Of Leon and The 1975, they released their debut single “Trisha” in 2019.

With an instant neon glow from an 80s-inspired synthpop opening, their new single found the often elusive balance between retro and contemporary. Effortlessly gliding from the era of shoulder pads and Rubik’s Cubes to the alt-pop/rock of the present, the shimmering synths are met with howling rock guitars and a driving percussion. And while lyrically chasing after Isabel, they fill this wistful tune with elated optimism and a sonic playfulness, creating a joyous pop-rock groove.

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In The Spotlight

Rosie Darling – “This Is Me Letting You Go”

Originally from Boston and now based in Los Angeles, this singer and songwriter grew up around music. She sang a lot in school, learned to play the guitar from her dad and taught herself to play piano. Although she began to write songs as a teenager, it wasn’t until she moved to L.A. that she got serious about a career. She lent her voice to EDM acts like OKO and Tritonal and toured with Katelyn Tarver. Inspired by Taylor Swift and Gracie Abrams, she debuted solo on her EP “Coping” in 2021.

Lyrically guiding us through the pitfalls of a breakup and finding a way to make peace with it, her new single shows there’s a light at the end of the heartbreak. Creating an inviting warmth with the soft melody, the song shows both an embracing vulnerability as an empowering strength to face the future. With a mellow acoustic guitar and a laidback rhythm guiding her words along, it’s her silky, emotion-filled vocals leading to an anthemic climax that makes this an enticing gem.

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In The Spotlight

Mia Wray – “Nice To Meet Me”

Born in Sunrise Beach and based in Melbourne, this Australian singer and songwriter started learning to play the piano aged 11. In later years she learned to play the guitar through video’s on YouTube. She also plays the harmonica and foot drum. Since starting her career she’s played various festivals like the Tamworth Country Music Festival and opened for Maisie Peters on tour. Inspired by The Beatles, Bob Dylan and Gabrielle Aplin, she released her debut single “Work For Me” in 2020.

Singing about ending a long term relationship and the process of finding yourself again after, her new single combines relatable lyrics with a rock-pop vibe. Taken from her upcoming album “Hi, Nice To Meet Me”, expected on 14 March 2025, the song starts with a harmonious acapella, followed by a weighty beat and a beefy bass. The soaring chorus adds a delicious energy with lively guitars and bustling drums. And with her towering vocals, this is a tasty piece of rock-pop candy.

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