Andy Keels Released The First Single “Dead To Me” Off His Upcoming EP Fifteen Years
Andy Keels got started with singing and writing music when he was in secondary school and ever since he never missed the opportunity to improve and perform whenever he could. Inspired by representatives of many different genres like Boys to Men, Johnny Cash, Kurt Cobain, The Rolling Stones, Oasis, and songwriter and producer Max Martin (NSYNC), Andy made a decision on how exactly he wants to sound like and we love it.
Releasing “Dead To Me” off his upcoming EP as the first one to make the right first impression we hope that the rest of the tracklist won’t differ much and will burst a range of indie/pop/rock influences with raw and rocky undertones as “Dead To Me” does. Nonetheless, this song is forming a flawless, ingenious artistic statement by someone who has clearly been working hard in bringing his craft closer to impeccability.It may safely be said that it is not an easy job to make any kind of music sound this fresh and perfect nowadays.
Relax with New Album of Sing-a-long Country Music from Colin Gordon-Farleigh
Relax New Album of Sing-a-long Country Music from Colin Gordon-Farleigh
An incredible country album full of brand new tracks from Colin Gordon-Farleigh himself, duets with his favourite musicians and even a few wonderful covers! This album let’s us fall in love with country music all over again as we relax into the incredible harmonics of sing-a-long country vocals and acoustic set ups! Recorded at Funhouse Studios on Music Row in Nashville, this album was created with a legendary team of record producer Ernie Rowell and recording engineer Rodney Ingle. True ‘Friends & Heroes‘ within this feel-good album, check it out today for a country ride!
A published poet and ordained minister, Colin Gordon-Farleigh has achieved wonderful recognition for the person he is today. Inspired by Jim Reeves and Slim Whitman, as an artist he is in fact a multiple Akademia award winner for his Bluegrass Albums! Colin Gordon-Farleigh has achieved a life-time of writing and performing country music, spending much time in Nashville working with musicians and producers as influential as Ernie Rowell. This album release is a legendary moment for Colin Gordon-Farleigh, who continues his reign as a King of Bluegrass!
Relax with New Album of Sing-a-long Country Music from Colin Gordon-Farleigh
Gutsy and Explosive Unforgettable New Music from Emme Lentino
Emme Lentino – ‘Some Other Girl’
Gutsy and Explosive Unforgettable New Music from Emme Lentino
Emme Lentino is one of the nicest people I’ve encountered. Born in USA and now residing in New Zealand, Emme has a long history in the music business and with each new music release, she just gets better and better; like a fine red wine. J
Her latest track due for release in October, shows real grit. An unforgettable explosive catchy upbeat love song about ‘Some Other Girl’ who ‘Had My Heart and You Threw It Away’ is a rather common crazy issue in relationships and while it seems from my review that perhaps it’s a depressing song; it’s not! By far.
“The song is about empowerment and not letting heartache stop you from thriving and also helping you to discover who you really are” say’s Emme.
Emme not only shows the grit and guts in her vocals but co-insides with a hard-hitting production that would get anyone fired up.
‘Some Other Girl’ is a fiery upbeat country-pop production recorded in London by Al Clay and lends itself to an array of possible versions; which for me, shows a great quality song in itself proving Emme’s song writing skills and capabilities of the highest calibre.
While the production of ‘Some Other Girl’ is great at it is, I would love to hear an acoustic version as well. Alongside perhaps a different approach to vocal performance in the verses with the voice super close to the mic with an almost angry sung/spoken attitude with less reverb. Don’t get me wrong, this production as a stand-alone is mind blowing, but when I can hear so much else in addition to what’s already there, I get excited.
Emme has also filmed a high-quality music video to co-inside with its release giving the visual element of the story line.
Whatever you do, don’t miss ‘Some Other Girl’ when it’s released on October 2nd on all major streaming platforms.
Country Singer Brianna Blankenship Warms Up For a Big Future
“I am changing as I grow as a singer and an artist. I am finding more ways to use my voice.”
Brianna Blankenship is a country singer/songwriter based out of Pennsylvania. The production, vocals and lyrics of her first single, released on May 29th, called, “Church” has Brianna already on the radar of many in the Country Music Industry. Brianna’s distinct vocals on this upbeat single have her capturing the attention of all who hear her song. With the reaction to her song “Church”, Brianna already has her fans anxiously awaiting her next release. You can find “Church” on all music streaming platforms and all of her social media links in her LinkTree (more links below) https://linktr.ee/briannablankenshipmusic
Danielle/MT: Who are some of your musical influences? When did you know music was your calling and when did you figure out why you needed to pursue music as your career?
Brianna:I am inspired mostly by Danielle Bradberry and Tenille Townes. I knew I has a passion for music about 3 years ago. I knew I needed to pursue it about two years ago.
MT: How long have you been singing and performing for?
Brianna:I took singing lessons for about 3 years through high school, but I didn’t start singing in front of people until my Junior year in high school. I then began gigging out a little over 2 years ago.
MT: Who do you enjoy listening to as a fan?
Brianna:I really am growing to love Lady A most recently!
MT: When was your very first recording and release?
Brianna:I recorded my first single “Church” in Nashville in November 2019 and it was just released May 29th, 2020.
MT: You recently released your single “Church”. Can you explain more about the meaning of the song and how it ties into your music goals?
Brianna:The meaning behind Church describes the feelings and experiences that one person has at church and their relationship with God to the love relationship they are currently experiencing. This song really gives my listeners a feel for how my sound is going to be in other music as well.
MT: How old are you now and when did you write your first song?…. Can you describe your current sound? Has your sound changed since you wrote your first song?
Brianna:I am 21 and wrote my very first song at about 18/19 years old. My sound is quite the same, but I am changing as I grow as a singer and an artist. I am finding more ways to use my voice.
MT: Do you have a favorite performance to date and why?
Brianna:My favorite performance so far would be at the McKean County Fair. That show was one of the first ones that I really got to perform original music for people and really connect with my fans.
MT: What has been your biggest challenge in your music career so far? How did you overcome that obstacle?
Brianna:MY CONFIDENCE: I haven’t completely overcome it, but I am working every day on growing and developing it. Each day that goes by I am building it.
MT: From what you have learned about your challenges in the music business, what advice would you like to give upcoming new artists?
Brianna:Keep pushing for your goals and dreams no matter how far they seem. You will get a thousand no’s before just one yes. Just keep working hard and success will come!
MT: Besides singing, do you play any musical instruments? How long have you been playing them?
Brianna:Yes, I do play guitar and picked that up about 3 years ago. I really wanted to learn when I started singing so I could be a more rounded artist.
MT: What’s a typical day for you? Do you work on your music every day? What other activities or hobbies besides music do you like to do that your fans may like to know about?
Brianna:I currently work for an Eye Doctor full time during the weekdays. My evenings and weekends are then busy with music. I get home from the doctor’s office and automatically start working on all the things related to my music career. I love spending time with my dogs and boyfriend. We spend a lot of time riding our side by side with friends and relaxing with family when we can.
MT: Now you have released ‘Church’, what would you like fans to know about the meaning behind the music on your next upcoming EP? Where can fans find your music when it is released?
Brianna: My music can be found on all music platforms and I do have another single coming out. The next single I am releasing means so much to me, it is very relatable.
MT: Do you have any up-coming performances you would like fans to know about? Is there anything else you would like to announce for your fans or anything you would like them to know?
Brianna:I do have quite a bit of shows coming up which, they can all be found on the events tab on my Facebook, Brianna Blankenship Music. I would absolutely love if you guys could follow my social medias, Brianna Blankenship Music, on everything!
MT: Do you have any specific rituals or do anything specific before you head out on stage or even before you record your vocals in the studio?
Brianna:Obviously every singer warms up their vocal, but I have TMJ so I have this exercise I do to stretch out my jaw before I go out and play/sing. The exercise makes me look “pretty odd” so always try to hide when I am doing it.
MT: Thank you so much for your time Brianna, I really appreciate it and all the very best.
Brianna:Thank you so much for interviewing me as well!
Country Singer Brianna Blankenship Warms Up For a Big Future
Destiny Band Oz Put Some Swing In Your Country With A Slice Of Heaven
Icon The Great is Back For More with Tripper Remix
Destiny Band Oz Put Some Swing In Your Country With A Slice Of Heaven
A New single called ‘Slice of Heaven’ from award-winning Australian husband and wife duo, Thomas and Tessa Libreri (aka Destiny Band Oz).
A country swing / jazz style inspirational song sung by Tessa Libreri and written by Thomas Libreri after the Black Saturday bushfires.
It’s about moving forward through adversity and finding a little slice of Heaven in country Gippsland. ‘Slice of Heaven’
Destiny Band Oz;“When mother nature throws her worst at you, it can tear you apart or pull you together – and it sure helps if you can escape to a little ‘Slice of Heaven’“.
The album, ‘Take Me Back in Time Remastered’ and All Destiny Band Oz music is available as digital downloads from all major online stores or as hard copy CDs via mail order via Destiny Band Oz website or Facebook page. (see links below)
Destiny Band Oz have had a stellar 2019 with 2 x number one hit songs on the Australian and International independent charts (‘My Family and Me’ charting for 9 weeks at #1 and ‘Peace of Mind’ charting for 4 weeks at #1 on the Country Songs Top 40 Australian Airplay chart and #1 and #2 respectively on the International Mainstream Top 40 Airplay chart with and have won multiple awards; notably:
Independent Country Music Awards of Australia Most Popular Country Music Duo of the Year in 2019;
International Singer-Songwriter Association International Band of the Year; *
Tasmanian Independent Country Music Awards National Artist of the Year (as well as *National Band of the Year in 2018);
Gold Medallion Media Award Collaboration of the Year 2019 for Tessa Libreri and Gary Ellis duet (Destiny Band Oz also won the GMMA Group or Duo of the Year 2018);
Traditional Country Music Awards of Australia Top 10 Album of the Year and several international awards for their songs.
They are delighted to once again be finalists in 9 categories of the International Singer-Songwriter Association Awards 2020 and in 2 categories of the 2020 Independent Country Music Awards of Australia.
All this since only releasing their first song in 2017!
New Zealands Ronél Hunter Took A Chance with New Music
Icon The Great is Back For More with Tripper Remix
Indie Pop Artist Zoe Sky Jordan Releases New Music
New Zealand recording artist Ronél Hunter announces the release of her new album ‘Move at Will’. Along with her album she is releasing her 3rd single ‘Took a Chance’ along with a beautiful new music video.
‘Took A Chance’ is a song that Ronél wrote about her husband. It tells their story in a nutshell. When they first met Ronél had just come out of a relationship and she wasn’t ready for something else. He, however, was very persistent and he won her over and has stuck by her through all her “crazy and sane times”.
Ronél said .. “Move At Will tells of my search for freedom over the past ten years. Here in New Zealand, I met and married my amazing husband and we have three beautiful children. It’s here that I’ve been able to find true freedom in Christ. There have been many highs and a few lows …..”Freedom always has its price. Some days it will charge you twice.”
My journey has included walking through depression, which I experienced after the birth of our third child, and I’ve learned to work through the loss of loved ones and cope with missing family and friends in South Africa. “
Ronél Hunter is a Singer Songwriter based in Kaka Point New Zealand. Originally from South Africa, Ronél played at the local folk festivals, before she settled in New Zealand in 2009, and married her Kiwi husband in 2011. Ronél writes songs about real life and is a firm believer in being real and being yourself. At the heart, Ronél is a storyteller. With musical influences such as Tracy Chapman, Guy Clark, Dolly Parton, Karen Zoid and Alanis Morissette, her focus is on the story a song has to tell and the emotion behind it, rather than being concerned about the genre. She has the ability to step into a song and to become a part of the story, as she takes the audience with her on a beautiful journey of discovering the heart of each song.
New Zealands Ronél Hunter Took A Chance with New Music
New Zealand Singer Miranda Easten Releases ‘Cowboy Lullaby’
The Sound Of Amongst Liars Are a Loud and Fierce Powerhouse
Miranda Easten is a Country Singer Song-writer hailing from Christchurch New Zealand. She studied Contemporary Music & Performance at Ara Institute of Canterbury Music Arts and has been mentored by Sacha Vee, founder of SOLE Music Academy, to help establish herself as an artist. In 2014 she formed the duo ‘The Manuka Set’ with no#1 hit making artist Vanessa Kelly. The Manuka Set has created several songs which illuminate current events and social issues.
Miranda has been recording her debut album at Roundhead Studios in Auckland with world renowned producer Greg Haver (Melanie C) and New Zealand band ‘Tiny Ruins’.
Her first single ‘Cowboy Lullaby’, released today March 6th 2020, is an honest take on how deep love can bring the simplest of everyday moments into a conscious part of our being.
Influences: Crowded House, Dolly Parton, Eva Cassidy, Mariah Carey, Aretha Franklin, Alanis Morissette, Janis Joplin, The Beatles, Lana Del Ray, Jewel, Kylie Minogue, Annie Lennox, Greg Johnson.
‘New Zealand Singer Miranda Easten Releases ‘Cowboy Lullaby’
Heartbreaking New Music Imminent from Country Singer Emily Markham
Australia’s own country singer-songwriter Emily Markham is on the rise and making waves with her brand new single, “How The Story Ends.” The NSW South Coast native has penned a remarkably relatable tune detailing the aftermath of relationships that don’t always have happy endings. Despite the sad subject of the song, the upbeat tempo and Markham’s powerful vocals provide a refreshing twist on the topic of relationship aftermath. From the vibe of this foot-tapping single, it is evident how Kasey Chambers, Maren Morris, and Kacey Musgraves have influenced Emily Markham’s vocal and writing style.
“How the Story Ends” was recorded at UMG Australia’s Forbes Street Studio.
“This song is completely me. I wrote this sitting on the floor of my hotel room in Nashville,” says Markham. “I had the line “if I need to be the villain in your story, that’s okay” and I knew I wanted to write a song about the different sides of a relationship. I feel like this song is a more mature concept to other songs I have written and I am incredibly excited for people to hear it.”
Emily Markham released her debut EP Come on Over in 2014, which was crafted by award-winning producer, Matt Fell. Her single from that EP “Collision” was added to over 100 radio station playlists in Australia. Emily has been named Today’s Country 94.1 Brand New Star on the NSW Central Coast and appeared on the auditions for season 5 of The Voice Australia. In 2018, Markham released her sophomore, seven song EP, Right Where You Are. From that body of work came “4 Days (Til Friday)”, which was added to the KIX Country radio playlist.
In the past two years, Emily Markham has been taking trips to Nashville, TN to write with hit songwriters like Bill Diluigi (hits on Billboard and Americana Top 100) and John Capek (hits with Cher, Olivia Newton-John, Rod Stewart). Markham’s recent Nashville ventures have elevated her craft, which is clear with the release of “How The Story Ends.” Her time in Music City has fueled her fire for success, and the new music reflects her tremendous growth. Moving forward, Emily is focused on creating a thriving career in country music that spans across the world, relating to and connecting with diverse audiences.
“How the Story Ends” will be available on all streaming platforms on Friday, February 28, 2020.
Ashley Puckett’s Stars Align For Debut Album “Never Say Never”
The phrase “Never Say Never” can be quite the over-used cliche. However, for Pittsburgh-area country singer, Ashley Puckett, it was the perfect phrase to describe her lifelong love affair with music:
“There was a time I really wasn’t sure music would go any further for me, except performing open mic nights here and there and working long hours during the day,” she said. “Life pulls you in so very many directions, and I never gave up, but I almost sort of “settled” in the wrong spot. I’ve never been one for good luck, so say it how you will…the stars aligned or fate happened.”
On February 14th, 2020, Ashley Puckett dropped her debut album of the same name, Never Say Never. The Bryan Cole-produced collection features two singles, “Medicine” which amassed more than 90K spotify streams, and her current release, “Bulletproof.” The latter is climbing the New Music Weekly national AM/FM and Digital Country charts.
Never Say Never was engineered by Doug Kasper at Tonic Studios. A who’s who of accomplished studio hands joined Ashley on the album, including Mike Brignardello (bass), John Willis (banjo), Mike Johnson (Steel Guitar), Heidi Engel and Tammy Petty (Background Vocals.) Hot newcomer Adam Ernst rounded out the musicians on the record.
Ashley concludes, “I met the right people at the right time and here we are. So a lesson to me and anyone reading this right now, ‘Never say Never.”
ABOUT ASHLEY PUCKETT: Ashley Puckett was born and raised in North Huntingdon, just east of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Ashley realized her passion for music at a young age, performing at vocal competitions and community events, and eventually, landing at open-mic nights and shows in bars and clubs, doing anything to keep the music and her passion alive. Her musical influences have been empowering..shaping the artist she has become: Ladies like Lee Ann Womack, Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert, Jo Dee Messina, Carole King and LeAnn Rimes. At age sixteen Ashley picked up the guitar, began writing songs, and the adventurous country girl hit the road.
Ashley Puckett’s Stars Align For Debut Album “Never Say Never”
Daisy Spratt Releases Super Fun Music Video for ‘Think Again Boy’
Americana-pop musician Daisy Spratt is thrilled to announce the release of the music video for her latest single “Think Again Boy” on Friday, February 7, 2020. Arriving hot on the heels of Spratt’s performance at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, the music video brings Aussie pride; shot on location in Spratt’s home of Melbourne, Australia.
Proud to share the new music video with her fans, Daisy Spratt says of filming
“The video team brought the narrative to life and made the process so fun. I was able to have my family involved as extras, and it was great having Jaxon Human (“Love Island Australia,” “Sydney’s Crazy Rich Asians”) play the male lead; he is such a talented actor. I’m so excited for everyone to finally have a visual for the song.”
“Think Again Boy” plunges straight into upbeat, swamp stompin’ beats letting the world know that Daisy Spratt is not just another pretty face but a force to be reckoned with. In the video, Spratt is continuously pursued by a man, played my Human, who is only interested in a one night fling. With empowered lyrics and a radiating confidence, Spratt grabs her girlfriends and shuts him down, letting Human know that he needs to “Think Again Boy.”
Daisy Spratt is a rising star with no signs of burning out. She previously released two chart-topping singles, “Love Like That” and “Soda Pop,” which can be heard on Australian Tiger Airways flights across Spratt’s home continent. In addition to the success of her singles, Spratt continues to gain notoriety with the release of her self-titled EP, earning her airplay on national and international radio stations and streaming services.
Daisy Spratt Releases Super Fun Music Video for ‘Think Again Boy’
Aussie Singer-Songwriter Lucille Expands Genres On First Single Off Debut Album
“Kerikeri” (out Feb 7) is the lead single from Melbourne based singer-songwriter Lucille’s upcoming debut LP “Come On, Fly”, which will be released on March 27.“Kerikeri” is about nostalgia and that magical time in childhood where, even if just for a fleeting moment, things felt whole and full of light-heartedness and wonder.
It’s a country song, but not in the way you may imagine – it is country rhythmically, but the vocals and harmonies are unexpected and don’t fit the country mold. Instead, there’s almost a jazz-pop feel to the harmonies, with the organic boot stomping and loose, raw guitar sounds creating a relaxed jam-band feel. The lyric video for “Kerikeri” features the imaginative imagery we’ve come to expect from Lucille (see previous singles The Killing Season & Best Of Me) and captures the sense of wonder and beauty that her childhood vacation destination holds in the songwriter’s heart. Check it out below.
“Kerikeri” is in Northland, the tip of NZ’s North Island, where the weather is warmer than in Lucille’s childhood home of New Plymouth, and it was her family’s perfect vacation destination. As Lucille explains:
“Kerikeri is a bit of a gateway to that whole Northland area. There’s Ninety Mile Beach which is a national highway. Anyone can use it as a road. If your car breaks down though, by the time you get back to it, it has probably sunk into the sand. When I was a kid, spotting the sunken cars was part of the fun. In the eighties, breaking down was part of travel…at least my family’s cars. There are lots of mandarin orchards up there. Pipis are clam shellfish that live in the tide zone, at low tide you hunt them by spotting their bubbles and you dig them out, or use a pipi harvester which is basically a suction pipe. They are delicious. You go fishing. You eat the fish fresh that day, on a fire on the beach.”
“All in all it is a paradise and looking back to how I felt as a child it was all sunlight. I’m sure most of us have that special place we can think of. It’s like a feeling where over time you feel like your vision has dulled, and you can’t see the colours like you saw them back then. There was yellow sand, and blue sky like I can’t see it now. That is what it feels like anyway.”
“I call Australia home, but going to NZ also feels like going home. Everything is very familiar to me every time I go back and I have childhood memories from all over the country. I am a dual NZ/Australian citizen.”
Sam Bartells Fast Becoming New Zealands Next Big Music Artist
A trip to Nashville in 2019 sent the wheels in motion, and truly set up a promising future for country artist, Sam Bartells.
With a husky timbre, a love of raw acoustic guitar and an authentic delivery of melody/lyrics, Sam Bartells’ talent grabbed the attention of Nashville record executive, Peter Strickland. Strickland will be overseeing the development of the NZ based artist through his compan Marathon Talent Agency. Sam has just returned for a series of shows, recording and writing sessions.
Signed to New Zealand based Resiau Records, Bartells was funded the opportunity to record an EP in Nashville during September, 2019.
We had the pleasure to interview Sam while in transit on the plane to Nashville to pursue more recording, writing and shows.
Sam Bartells Fast Becoming New Zealands Next Big Music Artist
MT/Tracey: Hello Sam, lovely to meet you. Was there anyone who inspired you to begin a career in music?
Sam:From listening to music with my father from a very young age and having cousins and uncles all play was my first inspiration. Music just moved me from the early days.
MT/Tracey: How long have you been singing and playing guitar for?
Sam:I have been singing and playing for 20years. Holy moly..
MT/Tracey: Who do you enjoy listening to, as a fan?
Sam: I listen to mostly easy listening soulful music or country. I haven’t been a big listener for the last few years but am getting back into it again now.
MT/Tracey: When was your first release?
Sam:First release – Have released music since in my early 20s however a limited amount is available due to relaunching my career recently.
MT: You have had a few battles which you are quite candid about with an underlying important message for others struggling with addiction. What do you tell yourself when you’re not feeling on top of world; do you have strategies to help?
Sam:When i struggle there are lots of things i do but a few things that help are.
Write a list of all the things i’m grateful for.
Accept myself and my situation
Look to help someone
MT/Tracey: How important do you think it is to share the reality of life to others?
Sam: A problem shared is a problem halved.
MT/Tracey: Your last release, ‘Blessed & Broken’ is such a beautiful song musically, lyrically and simple, highlighting the strength of the song and raw vocals, guitar and violin; Can you tell us what ‘Blessed & Broken’ is all about?
Sam:It’s about my last rock bottom before i got sober 3.5 years ago. And reflecting on it.
MT/Tracey: Do you perform often?
Sam: Planning on a lot more shows in NZ and USA very soon and a tour of USA
MT/Tracey: Do you have any specific rituals before you head out on stage?
Sam:30 min warm up. Focus on breathing.
MT/Tracey: Your latest single, ‘Alone No More’ has only just been released; What or who inspired you to write this song?
Sam:Just had a story in my mind of a guy realizing he is lonely without his love
MT/Tracey: 2019 looked to be a stellar year for you with a trip to Nashville meeting many from the industry. What was it like for you while meeting people and recording in Nashville?
Sam:Nashville was amazing so many experiences and was cool to work with so many talanted musicians recording and jamming. Loved the vibe in town and the people.
MT: Where can people see you perform next?
Sam: We should have some shows announced soon for Nashville.
Australian Songbird Daisy Spratt Looking Ahead and Giving Back
Thanks for your time Sam have a great day and all the best with ‘Alone No More’
Australian Songbird Daisy Spratt Looking Ahead and Giving Back
B.KNOX Latest Single Is Like A Landscape Painting Thats Big, Broad and Beautiful
B.Knox
“The Fault Lies”
Singer songwriter B.Knox confirms my belief that good things come out of Canada. He rides that line between country and folk music with ease. A teacher by profession, Knox gives his listeners a lesson in life with his songs.
His latest single, The Fault Lies is like a landscape painting, one that is big, broad and beautiful. It conveys feelings of loss, change and emptiness, with a bittersweet edge.
Here’s how Knox describes the song,
“Shifting seasons present stark and beautiful backdrops for changing love.
The movement from loss and regret to unapologetic acceptance draws heavily from both of my self-acknowledged wells of inspiration – heartbreak and landscape.”
This is his fourth single, with his earlier tracks Deep, Dark Love, Living with a Shadow and Corners all demonstrating a talent and a connection with the darker side of life. He is moody and melancholic, and wonderful. I’m a fan.
He is promising to release a full album, “Heartbreak and Landscape” during 2020. I’m looking forward to seeing where this guy will take us.
His music is available now on most streaming platforms.
Chris Williams Releases New Feel Good Summer Single ‘Paradise’
Chris Williams Releases New Feel Good Summer Single ‘Paradise’
‘PARADISE’ is a feel good, summer, turn it up in the car type song about looking for our own version of Paradise while also recognising that it’s right in front of you. It’s about the parallel of wanting more but being grateful for what we have.
Country Rock Singer-Songwriter Chris Williams is stirring up waves on the Australian country music scene. Chris hit the Australian Charts by storm with his debut single ‘Shining on You’, follow up single ‘Speed Of Light’ and then ‘Live in the Moment’ and ‘City Lights’ all reaching the Top Ten in the Country Tracks Chart.
Over the past few years, Chris has been nominated for a Southern Star Award for CRS Australian Independent Rising Star Male, a Tasmanian Independent Music Award for Country Rising Star and is nominated for an ICMA Award for Most Popular Independent Male Artist to be presented at the Tamworth Country Music Festival in 2020.
Chris also achieved over 300,000 plays of his previous single ‘City Lights’ on Spotify and his debut EP cracked the Top 20 on ITunes. Chris has developed his own guitar driven country rock songs that are catchy and purposefully geared to lift your spirits.
PARADISE AVAILABLE ON ALL GOOD STREAMING PLATFORMS
Juan Sánchez Neo Classical Music Impacts You Like No Other
Sofia Boyden
“I am nowhere near where I want to be as a country artist I have hours of work to do everyday and I LOVE IT“
Sofia Boyden Finds Her Calling to Country Music
My name is Sofia Boyden. I am a Country Music singer and songwriter. I am fairly new to Country Music, I have only been listening to this genre for about five years. I was raised on Classic Rock, Soul, Jazz, and many more amazing types of music. I was always the youngest one at concerts my parents took me to, be it Tom Petty, The Eagles, Heart, Stevie Wonder, or Bobby Caldwell, to name a few. I loved singing songs that none of my friends knew, and sometimes songs even my parents have never heard of.
I have loved using the musical gifts God gave me, ever since I was a little girl. I’d sing anything. Throughout my entire high school career, my love for singing grew even more. I joined two choirs and performed in my school musicals, but I was so afraid that everyone would think I was pursuing a career without any promise. So, I never auditioned for solos or put myself out there to be heard. I was afraid of judgement and being looked at as weird or as a daydreamer. All I knew is that I wanted to be a performer and sing music to thousands of people every night.
Country Music is my biggest passion now, however, it was not always the genre I wanted to pursue. I knew I wanted to be a singer songwriter, but finding one lane to choose was very difficult for me. Less than a month after I graduated from high school, along with earning my Associate of Arts Degree at the same time, I was in Los Angeles recording songs, shooting a music video, and meeting with record labels. I did this every month for the rest of that year. As amazing as that all sounds, it never felt right to me.
I was singing Pop R&B, but that didn’t feel right. I was doing what most people dream of their whole life.
It was all happening to me in a short period of time, but it didn’t feel right. I felt like the more I would do to pursue this dream, I would stay in the same place. I wasn’t going anywhere. My family and I decided to leave people we had been working with in LA. That was the hardest decision I ever had to make because I had grown so close with them. I knew it was best, they knew it was best, my parents knew it was best for me to pursue a different path.
After three months of praying and waiting, I signed to my now-management team in Nashville. Flashback five years earlier, I had met with my now-manager because he was interested in working with me. I was thirteen at that time and was very serious about doing this. But my mom and dad felt that the time wasn’t quite right. But now I know that it’s a lot more work than just getting on stage a few nights a week and singing.
I am nowhere near where I want to be as a country artist I have hours of work to do everyday and I LOVE IT.
But the thirteen year old Sofia would not have been able to handle it. So thank you mom and dad for the wise choice. Now, I am more than happy where I am, and most importantly, it feels right. I know this is where I’m meant to be. I was blessed to go to Nashville for the first time last year and put lyrics I’ve sat on for years into powerful, beautiful songs.
The first song I ever wrote in Nashville was my first single that was ever released, my first single to be added to playlists, and my first single to be played on the radio. In my first song, Blame It on My Heart, I wanted to write a song that really tells what it feels like when you’re head over heels a lot quicker than expected. Sometimes I think there’s an invisible timeline of when certain things are supposed to happen in a relationship, so I wrote this song for the people who go all in. My favorite song I’ve written so far, Prove You Wrong is a song for the people who doubted me and weren’t supportive of my career choice. As I said, in high school, I was shy and quiet and didn’t say a word about my hopes and dreams. So when I finally gained the courage to tell people my passion, not everyone was excited for my future. I wrote this song for myself as an outlet, but also made it for everyone; not just a song for the people trying to make it in the music business. I love big-band sounds: Earth, Wind, and Fire, Billy Joel, Elton John, so I really wanted to add that element to this song specifically, even though it is carried throughout all my songs. As much as I love a lot of instruments, my ballad, You Ain’t Him, is definitely my most meaningful. I drew from experiences that I know most other people have gone through of dealing with a bad relationship and moving on to one that is much better. I have come to the realization in the song that what is in front of me is better than what’s past. Like all my songs, it’s for everyone to relate to because we’ve all been there.
I am so happy and excited to share my music with the world. My self-titled debut EP was released on November 8th. You can find my already released singles Blame It on My Heart and Prove You Wrong on Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, YouTube, Amazon Music, Google Play, and more. Thank you so much to everyone for supporting me and listening to my special lyrics. This is only the very beginning.
Australian Songbird Daisy Spratt Looking Ahead and Giving Back
Melbourne singer-songwriter, Daisy Spratt undoubtedly has talent to burn. Her energy, songwriting and singing skills are to be admired with her intentions and goals to match.
Having just released her third single, ‘Think Again Boy’, proving she isn’t just a pretty lady, but a lady with fierce motivation, goals and dreams that are certain to become a reality for Ms Spratt.
We had the pleasure to interview Daisy. Spratt is down to earth with a certain kind of perkiness about her which reflects in ‘Think Again Boy’.
Hope you enjoy the interview, and continue to keep an eye on this talented young woman.
Australian Songbird Daisy Spratt Looking Ahead and Giving Back
Tracey: Hello Daisy, nice to cyber meet you! Can you tell us where you are from and how long you’ve been singing for?
Daisy:Thank you Tracey for having me! I’m sort of a hybrid. I was born in Southport, Queensland. However, I moved to the United States when I was 1. I moved back to Melbourne when I was about 10, and have been here ever since. I like to think of myself as being from Melbourne. It’s my home here, but a piece of me will always be with the USA, because that was where I first started listening to music, and learning what I liked and didn’t like. I didn’t start getting singing lessons until I was 13, and started performing around 15, so I was a late bloomer in my craft.
MT/Tracey: How did you become involved in music and singing?
Daisy:It was by chance when I was about 12 or 13, back in the MSN days, I would do voice recordings for fun and send them to my friends. I sang some Linkin Park songs one day. My friends were serious and said I should pursue lessons because I apparently sang well. The singing side of things started from there, in terms of actually pursuing that. Guitar was my first musical love though. I came back to Australia, and lived in a small regional town called Moe, in Victoria, initially. It was there I decided to give guitar lessons a go, and I never stopped playing from then on. I regularly did little performances playing guitar, and also would play guitar with my dad who taught me a lot of basic chords.
MT/Tracey: Do you write your own music and collaborate? If so, who have you recently worked with?
Daisy:I do. I love writing. Even if the initial ideas are terrible, I like to get my heart and feelings down, to release those emotions at the time. I love collaborating, and actually prefer it when I’m releasing music. You get so many more ideas, and can work as a team to make the song the best it can be. With all the songs I have released so far, I wrote the majority of the song on my own, and then would bring it to the studio and collaborate to make it better before recording. The most recent collaboration would be “Think Again Boy”. It was co-written with Brandon Hood in Nashville, and then I had the honour of having it produced by John Capek, who has worked with artists like Rod Stewart and Diana Ross in the past.
MT/Tracey: How important do you feel music is, in people’s lives?
Daisy:I don’t think I have ever met someone who doesn’t listen to music. Sure, not everyone has a passion for it, or is involved in it per se, but everyone listens to it. It is very important, because it has the power to shift the atmosphere, in a positive or negative way. It can also speak to people in low moments, or give them a “pick me up” for the day. That’s why I love doing it, not just because I’m good at it, or enjoy it, but also because I get to speak to people that I’ll likely never meet.
MT: Do you recall the first song you sang, and at what age were you?
Daisy:The first song I ever sang for an actual audience I was around 15, and sang “Scar” by Missy Higgins. It was the first time my mum saw me sing live on stage. My family jokes about it, because I apparently I sang so pitchy and flat back then!
MT: I’ve noticed you have sung your own version of few covers and your previous releases being more pop. What was the reason for the style change to more of an Americana Pop feel for ‘Think Again Boy’?
Daisy:I like singing anything and everything. When you grow up listening to a broad range of music, it can be difficult to find your “box” or genre. My song “Love Like That” was more country, my self-titled EP was more pop and rock. So, it’s been a journey of self-discovery and finding what style I can express myself the best through. “Think Again Boy” is the launch of a new era and a new style for me, where I feel I am able to give people an insight into me as a person, through music. Maybe down the track I might venture into something different like blues, but Americana pop is where I am at right now, and I’m cool with it.
MT/Tracey: You have a great voice! Who did you listen to growing up?
Daisy:Thank you! That means a lot. I listened to so many genres and artists growing up. When I was really little it was Kenney Chesney, Shania Twain and Keith Urban. I was also surrounded by a lot of gospel and Christian music. Then I discovered Green Day at 10 years old, and got hooked on rock, American punk music throughout my teens.
MT/Tracey: Are you performing live anywhere at the moment?
Daisy: I’m doing a lot of open mic gigs at the moment through the CBD of Melbourne, and on the Peninsula, to keep myself fresh and try new songs on audiences. I also have some internationally live streamed gigs coming up during the Christmas period as well.
MT/Tracey: Do you have any great moments that stand out to you, perhaps a show or a session that made an impact and you will never forget?
Daisy: Probably when I did the launch party in November 2018, for my EP release. I was overwhelmed by the positive feedback from the people that came, and having my first experience of doing a full show of my own original music. I remember thinking “this is what it feels like to do your own shows, and have people there that connect with your music”.
MT/Tracey: What hobbies do you have that you like to do other than music?
Daisy:I love working out with my husband, it’s something we make time to do together amongst our busy lives. We’re on a bit of a health kick at the moment. Anything creative, like scrapbooking. I’m currently trying to finish our wedding album. I also really enjoy baking and cooking at home, if I have the time to just bake a cake.
MT/Tracey: Is there an album coming? What’s next in line for Daisy Spratt?
Daisy:Yes, for sure! Next year we have some singles and music videos in the pipeline, and festival shows. An album will definitely be happening, but most likely will be looking at releasing in 2021.
MT/Tracey: Where do you see yourself with your singing and music? What is your biggest dream?
Daisy:My biggest dream is doing headline tours, and essentially running a whole business through the Daisy Spratt brand. I’d love to include merchandise, and Daisy Spratt clothing in the brand, and also introduce some form of a charity side to the business, so that I can continue helping people and giving back to the community somehow. Essentially, I want to be able to make a living doing something I love, and being able to help people at the same time.
MT: Is there anything else you would like to mention?
Daisy: Just thank you for having me. It’s been a wild journey since releasing my first studio recording in 2016, and I’m humbled that I’m even at the point that people care to ask about my music and songs, so thank you, and there is more to come!
Australian Songbird Daisy Spratt Looking Ahead and Giving Back
Thanks for your time Daisy have a great day!
Australian Songbird Daisy Spratt Looking Ahead and Giving Back
Langkamer Getting The Band Back Together with New Single
Langkamer Getting The Band Back Together with New Single
The sophomore EP from the Bristolian alt-country indie rockers Langkamer, sees the band soaring up into bold new territory.
Packing a bigger bite than an irate rattlesnake, and with more hot licks than a dirty Dallas dive bar, Getting The Band Back Together is the sound of 4 musicians working in perfect balance.
Building on the country punk conventions of their first EP, this release sees the band utilising a range of different genres and songwriting styles to offer up a sound completely and unique their own.
Recorded live in just 2 days in a small studio in Somerset, the EP offers up hot takes on a range of feel-good topics such as depression, anxiety and mortality. The release follows a barnstorming summer where the group toured throughout the UK and Sweden, and comes accompanied by a string of headline shows and support slots up and down the country.
UPCOMING SHOWS
20th – Newport, Le Pub Bristo
21st – Bristol, The Louisiana 29nd – London, DIY Space For London
23rd – Northampton, The Garri
o4th – Sheffield, Cafe Totem
95th – Oxford, The Library
26th – London, The Lexington (supporting Will Varley)
27th – Brighton, The Richmond (supporting Hanya)
DECEMBER | 4th – London, Sebright Arms (supporting Fenne Lily)
Aly Cook New Single is Under the Southern Christmas Stars
Aly Cook New Single is Under the Southern Christmas Stars
Christmas under the Southern Cross is a warm summer night, bbq, perhaps the beach, but most of all it’s family, and enjoying each other’s company.
The lyrics were written by Kay Bidstrup to celebrate the Christmas homecoming of her son, after a year living abroad, and Buzz Bidstrup and Aly Cook put the music together while the Kiwi singer was in Australia promoting her latest album ‘Caught in the Middle’. The trio have been very productive recently penning nearly all the songs on the record.
Southern Christmas Stars’ is for those living in the Southern Hemisphere, with not a hint of snow or reindeer, and features some classy guitar work by Dean Ray. It will be added to the current SBD Asquithmas playlist that also includes artists Sherene, Tammy Roxanne and Jon Abo.
Aly Cook is a Multi award-winning recording artist with a deep passion for all things musical. She is a consummate songwriter and performer who has taken her music to the world, delighting audiences and carving a career as a respected live performer.
Aly Cook’s successful 3rd album release, ‘Caught in the Middle‘. The album made appearances on both the ARIA & New Zealand official album charts and the first single,
‘Red Dirt Road Trip peaked at number one on Australian Independent Country Airplay charts.
Aly will be appearing at her 8thTamworth Country Music Festival in January and plans for an Australian tour in 2020 are well underway.
SOUTHERN CHRISTMAS STARS Available on all Platforms
