In The Spotlight

Ben Drysdale – “If I Don’t Lie Down”

Hailing from Canberra, this award-winning Australian singer and songwriter has been performing since 2004 as part of bands such as Beth N Ben and East Row Rabble. He was a semi-finalist in the 2020 International Songwriting Competition and landed 2nd place in the 2023 Hawaii Songwriting Festival competition. Inspired by the likes of Cat Stevens, he recently debuted his indie-folk solo sound.

Crafting a warm and welcoming soundscape, his debut single marries refreshing pop vibes with the invigorating earthiness of folk. He eases the listener into his musical world with a mellow beat and crisp guitar, before the track erupts in a bubbly and vivacious sonic jubilance. And with a touch of grit in his vibrant vocals, this foot-stomping, bustling tune is filled with musical joie de vivre.

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In The Spotlight

Julia Logue – “Welcome To Your Sunrise”

Based in Portland, this skilled singer/songwriter grew up surrounded by music, thanks to a musician dad who was always playing guitar and writing songs. Even as young as 3, she was making up songs. Since she’s performed around her home town and opened for Ruby Waters and Nico Play. Inspired by the likes of Stevie Wonder, Amy Winehouse and Lianne La Havas, she released her debut “No Face” in 2020.

Trying to find answers to life’s big questions and guiding her from self-doubt to self-believe, her new single is an intricate blend of heartfelt lyrics, neo-soul and jazz. Taken from her same-titled album, it welcomes the listener with a smooth, laid-back jazzy vibe. With a mellow rhythm, lush guitar plucks and her soulful vocals creating a warm atmosphere, this breezy tune is an opulent melodic gem.

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In The Spotlight

Michael Gerow – “Standing In The Fire”

Hailing from St. Louis, this gifted singer and songwriter’s passion for music has been evident since he was only 6 and he’s been building an impressive career since. He was a contestant on Season 19 of American Idol at the age of 16 and was eliminated during the duets round. Inspired by artists like Sam Smith, Rex Orange County and Mac Ayres, he debuted with “When The Lights Are Low” in 2023.

With emotional, heartfelt lyrics about regretting breaking a lover’s heart, his new single captures true vulnerability in a smooth and elegant melody. Taken from his same-titled EP, he starts the song with understated keys to emphasize his atoning words. The mellow rhythm adds body, while his poignant and sensitive vocals give this delicate ballad a heartwarming authenticity and honesty.

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In The Spotlight

Kibra – “James”

Born as Kibra Tesfaye, this Toronto-based Canadian singer and songwriter is making her mark with a hybrid fusion of R&B, classic soul and jazz vocals. She’s performed at the Toronto International Film Festival, SXSW in Austin and AfroChic in Ghana, as well as showcasing her talents with Sofar Sounds. Inspired by Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone and Beyoncé, she released her debut “3 Little Birds” in 2018.

Paying tribute to the legendary Etta James and in particular her song “I’d Rather Go Blind”, her new single welcomes you into her warm and cozy sonic world. Taken from her upcoming debut album “Soul Butter”, expected in 2024, it’s the soft, steady rhythm, soulful keys and her passionate R&B-laced vocal tone that’ll take the listener on an unforgettable and heartwarming musical journey.

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In The Spotlight

SKRAM – “Serendripity”

Based in Wellington, this New Zealand band was founded in 2021 by three school friends, of which Henry Ashby and Felix Nesbitt remain. Having created a bright pastel explosion of sheer sonic fun, they forged a rich fusion of genres and graced many a festival stage with their vibrant show. Inspired by artists from Tash Sultana to Coldplay and Maroon 5, they debuted with “Inside Your Head” in 2021.

Embracing ones uniqueness and self-expression, their new single is filled with empowering confidence. Infusing their pop-rock sound with a generous sprinkling of funky vibes, it’s the 80s-touched synths, dynamic rhythms and colorful guitars that form their fast-paced soundscape. And with their quirky vocals, this anthemic retro groove celebrates freedom of choice with glamorous panache.

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In The Spotlight

Essy – “Untouchable”

Born as Rachel Braig, this Nashville-based singer and songwriter taught herself to play piano and started writing songs aged 11. She entered the Steinhardt summer program of NYU aged 15. While studying psychology at the University of Virginia, she started working with EDM duo Ship Wrek. Inspired by artist like MUNA, Robyn and Bruce Springsteen, she debuted solo with “Pulse” in 2019.

Filled with empowering positivity meant to inspired listeners to be their true selves in a toxic relationship, her new single is a celebration of glittering, 80s-infused synthpop. Easing you into her retro world with a pulsating beat, the track soon comes life with sprightly drums and the neon radiance of the synths. And with her powerful vocals, this vibrant groove is glowing with nostalgic vibes.

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