#international anthem recording co

[donospl]

Co w jazzie piszczy [sezon 2 odcinek 41]

premierowa emisja 13 listopada 2024 – 18:00 Graliśmy: Kurt Elling with Sullivan Fortner ft. Cecile Mclorin Salvant “A Wish (Valentine)”  z albumu “Wildflowers Vol. 1” – Edition Records    Kurt Elling with Joey Calderazzo  “It’s Only a Paper Moon” z albumu “Wildflowers Vol. 2” – Edition Records    Avishai Cohen “The Seventh” z albumu “Ashes to Gold” – ECM Records Ivo Neame “The Rise of the…

[ibhokhwe]

Thandi Ntuli interview in the International Anthem Recording co. zine.

[dead-as-i-tread]

27 club part 2 ☆

Gary Thaine 1948-1975 (Uriah Heep)

he became a member of the band "The Secrets", which eventually dissolved in 1966. Later, Thain was part of the rock trio The New Nadir, and with the drummer Peter Dawkins, he traveled from New Zealand to London, and once jammed with Jimi Hendrix before the trio split in 1969. Thain joined the Keef Hartley Band, performing at Woodstock in 1969 and, in 1971, they toured with Uriah Heep.

Alan Wilson (Blind Owl) 1943-1970

The "rural hippie anthem" became the unofficial theme song for the Woodstock Festival where Canned Heat performed at sunset on August 16, 1969. Although Canned Heat's live performance was cut from the original theatrical release of the Woodstock film, they were featured in the 25th anniversary "Director's Cut."

Leslie Harvey 1944-1972 (Stone the Crows)

In 1969, Harvey joined Scottish band Cartoone to record some tracks for their second album. He also accompanied Cartoone on their live tour of the United States supporting Led Zeppelin. Harvey was a co-founder of Stone the Crows in late 1969. While on stage with Stone the Crows at Swansea Top Rank in 1972, he was electrocuted when he touched a microphone that was not earthed while the fingers of his other hand were holding the strings of his guitar.

Ron “Pigpen” McKernan 1945-1973 (Grateful Dead)

He founded the Grateful Dead band, who he played for between 1965 and 1972. McKernan was close friends with American singer-songwriter Janis Joplin due to common musical influences and lifestyles, particularly a shared love of alcohol over other drugs. While his bandmates and friends were using cannabis, LSD, and other hallucinogenic drugs, McKernan preferred alcoholic beverages. friends and band biographers have described McKernan as a quiet, kind, and introspective person. Hart later said "Pigpen was the musician in the Grateful Dead." Kreutzmann said McKernan was "the sweetest guy anybody had ever met."

Dave Alexander 1947-1975 (The Stooges)

The Stooges’ founding bassist Dave “Zander” Alexander had the reputation of being a loose cannon before the group even came together: He dropped out of high school 45 minutes into his senior year to win a bet, and he and Stooges guitarist Ron Asheton once traveled to England with hopes of running into the Beatles. Alexander was fired from the band in August 1970 after showing up at the Goose Lake International Music Festival too drunk to play.

[nonesuchrecords]

Here's Bolivian-born singer and multimedia performer Ibelisse Guardia Ferragutti and Chicago expat jazz drummer Frank Rosaly's "DESTEJER," from MESTIZX, their debut full-length album as co-composers, arrangers, and musicians, due May 3 on International Anthem / Nonesuch Records. The video was filmed near Ferragutti’s hometown in Cochabamba, Bolivia, by director Espectador Domesticado.

[dustedmagazine]

Horse Jumper of Love — Heartbreak Rules (Run for Cover)

Heartbreak Rules by Horse Jumper of Love

For three consecutive albums over the last seven years, the Boston slowcore band Horse Jumper of Love has operated as a trio, singer and songwriter Dimitri Giannopoulos sharing sonic space with childhood friend and drummer Jamie Vadala-Doran and bass player John Margaris. This 11-song mini-album, coming a year after the last record, strips that measured but hard-hitting aesthetic to a plaintive murmur. Giannopoulos recorded the whole thing in five days, working with co-producer Bradford Krieger primarily and inviting Margaris in solely to play piano on “Chariots” one of two songs re-imagined since Natural Part.

The opening track is called “Tune Drifts Out the Window,” and that title captures this album’s introspective mood. The tune is shaped from overlapping, overdubbed vocals, a slow-moving slash of kit drums and a disconsolate rain of guitar strums. It moves with a slouching, shrugging grace, finding serenity in stasis, opening hatch-holes toward revelation in dusky, ill-lighted spaces. You feel, here and elsewhere, that Giannopoulos is making these songs for himself. You hear them by accident, drifting out of his morose ruminations. And yet there’s an airy shimmer to these songs, the strumming, the singing glitters as it catches the light.

I found myself thinking, a lot, of Jeremy Enigk’s solo work while I was listening to Heartbreak Rules, especially the great Return of the Frog Queen, which made ringing anthems out of similarly limited materials. “Queenie’s Necklace,” especially, anchored as it is by the simplest, repetitive chords, soars improbably on a keening melody. It feels like a rainy afternoon, slow and listless, and yet it gathers itself in a chorus of blurry sweetness, a mist shot through with rays of sun.

The last three songs revisit earlier material. “Sugar in Your Shoes” is a strummy, mournful take that brings out the song’s essential melancholy. The song considers the limited power of love to lift us out of a slump. Where before, on Natural Part, the muted clangor of indie rock instruments suggested catharsis, now the song feels wholly moored in internal reflection. Nothing will happen. Nothing will be resolved. This is a wallow, but a lovely, affecting one. Similarly, “Chariots” comes tamped down considerably from its earlier iteration. It sounds, more than anything, as if Giannopoulos is singing it to himself, trying to remember exactly how it goes. And finally, “Luna,” the Smashing Pumpkins cover, is abstracted to ghostly paleness, the guitar-forward rally in the original heard very faintly, through a scrim of static, if at all.  

We’ve all spent a lot of time alone in the last few years, and this album, recorded during the lockdown, reflects that uncertain, unreal time. It’s not so much that Giannopoulos wasn’t recording for an audience, but more than he’d forgotten that we all existed. This is lovely, a glimpse inside someone else’s dream space, made for the artist’s own reasons but well worth sharing.

Jennifer Kelly

[newmusicradionetwork]

Pop singer-songwriter Ashley Elle invites listeners on an exhilarating voyage through lust, love, and heartbreak with her latest EP, Say Something. This seven-song collection displays the euphoric intensity of romance in all its complexity. With haunting melodies, lush arrangements, and deeply resonant lyrics, Ashley Elle delivers a raw and relatable exploration of love’s most universal themes. Say Something is available to stream and download on all platforms. Each track on Say Something combines Ashley Elle’s signature blend of dreamy folk-inspired storytelling with the enthralling textures of alt-pop. The title track, “Say Something,” brings a fresh, buoyant energy to the EP, capturing the playful tension of unspoken attraction. “‘Say Something’ is an upbeat, flirty song about knowing someone may be interested in you. It’s your way of wanting them to say something about it rather than dance around those feelings,” she explains. Produced by Josh Lovell (K. Flay, Benson Boone, Bully), the song features irresistible rhythms and catchy melodies, while Ashley Elle’s vocals glide through the song with confidence and curiosity, perfectly expressing the anticipation and impatience of waiting for someone to confess their feelings. The EP also features her previously released singles, “One More Night,” “Falling,” and “Save Us.” With “One More Night,” she invites listeners into a world of love suspended in time, where the heart yearns for connection despite knowing it’s no longer right for you. With warm acoustic melodies, echoing vocals, and intoxicating atmospheric layers, the charming track resonates as a tender inspection of the internal battle between heart and mind when you’re connected to someone who may not be right for you. Diving deeper into the intricacies of connection, “Falling” vividly portrays the raw vulnerability and intense longing accompanying an unexpected attraction. Ashley Elle admirably portrays the thrill of discovering someone who sweeps you off your feet, blending that initial wonder with a delicate sense of caution. “Save Us” stands apart from the other tracks, emphasizing the frustration of deceit and manipulation. It’s a powerful anthem for those exhausted from one-sided efforts in a fading relationship. “It highlights how oftentimes one person is more committed to the relationship than the other and unfortunately, that is not enough to save it,” she shares. With melancholic tones and somber lyrics, “Save Us” creates an atmosphere of heartache while showing the messiness that can arise when the desire to hold on isn’t mutual. Mastered by Adam Grover at Sterling Sound and co-written with Hank Compton (GAYLE, K. Flay, Savannah Conley), Say Something is a vivid tapestry of love, longing, and self-discovery. The EP contains three more enthralling unreleased tracks, “They Always Come Back,” “Conditions,” and “October” (co-written with Allegra Miles and Lucky West), moving effortlessly from infectious, upbeat moments of flirtation to earnest, reflective ballads that invite listeners to confront the bittersweet side of love. In the heart of the “sad girl” pop scene, Ashley Elle arrives as a captivating voice, sharing her journey through songs that resonate with authenticity. Her love for music was evident from an early age when she spent countless hours singing and playing the piano and guitar. In 2019, Elle signed with Nashville’s Given Entertainment, collaborating with producers to refine her indie-pop sound. Since then, the Los Angeles-based musician has worked tirelessly with producers to hone her craft and develop her unique alt-pop sound, constantly writing and recording new material, and pouring her heart and soul into each song. Her music has been praised in Wonderland, Earmilk, Kings of A&R, Celeb Mix, Ones to Watch, and Fashionably Early, and has been added to countless Spotify playlists. Each song on Ashley Elle’s new EP feels like an open letter, balancing authentic emotion with strength, and speaks to anyone who has felt the sting of heartbreak or the exhilaration of new love. Say Something is available now to stream and download on all platforms. Be sure to follow her on her Instagram @AashleyElle and visit her website, AshleyElleMusic.com. Read the full article

[cleverhottubmiracle]

It’s been almost four months since Vybz Kartel walked out of Kingston’s General Penitentiary as a free man after serving nearly 13 years behind bars. Way back in September of 2011, the dancehall star was arrested for possession of cannabis before being hit with a murder charge. After a 64-day trial, the longest in Jamaican history, Kartel and his co-defendants—Kahira Jones, Andre St. John, and fellow dancehall artist Shawn Storm—were convicted and sentenced to life in prison. But Kartel never gave up hope.After appealing all the way to the highest court in the UK, the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council overturned the conviction in March 2024 due to misconduct—one of the jurors was accused of bribing others on the jury, which should have resulted in a mistrial. Months later the Jamaican government decided to drop the controversial case once and for all.After so many years in captivity the artist, born Adidja Palmer, is now enjoying life with his new fiancee Sidem Öztürk, reuniting with his family—including his sons Likkle Addi, Likkle Vybz, and his first grandchild—and savoring his first ever Grammy nomination for the album Party With Me. More importantly, after suffering from a serious thyroid condition while in prison, he finally has proper medical care and has been recovering well. “God is the greatest,” Kartel states in a new interview with Boomshots, recorded during the run-up to Freedom Street, his first live performance in more than a decade.“I was never a religious person, but going through what I’ve been through, it changed me,” Kartel said. “And it made me have a different perspective on what God has in store for my life. So yes, I became close to God—unfortunately in prison, but it is what it is.”Kartel will close out this remarkable year by performing alongside his sons, and many of his the young artists he helped to become stars including Spice, Popcaan, Tommy Lee, Shawn Storm, and Sheba, as well as new generation artists inspired by him like Skillibeng and Chronic Law. A few surprise guests are likely to pop out at Jamaica’s National Stadium on the evening of December 31. “This is the greatest assemblance of artists in dancehall,” Kartel said. “It’s like the Avengers, so obviously I have to be Tony Starks. Thanos, watch out!”Arguably the most dominant and divisive dancehall artist of the new millennium, Vybz Kartel’s career so far can be divided into three distinct eras. During the first era, from 1993 to 2000, he was Adi Banton, struggling in obscurity as part of a trio known as Vibes Cartel. The second era began when he went solo in the early 2000s, changing his name to its current spelling, and writing songs for Bounty Killer and Elephant Man before releasing his first hit song, “Gun Clown.” By the end of the second era, Kartel was a seemingly unstoppable force until his arrest in 2011. The third and longest era has played out behind bars, as Kartel continued his prolific run against all odds.Although Kartel has not touched a stage since 2011, he’s maintained his place at the top of the Jamaican dancehall scene despite being incarcerated. By secretly recording on smart phones and emailing his vocals to a close circle of trusted producers, Kartel was able to release hundreds of hit singles like his 2016 smash “Fever,” which got heavy international airplay and was certified gold. Although he released more than a dozen albums during his time in prison, Party With Me is his first release to be nominated for Best Reggae Album.“Long overdue, Academy,” Kartel said. “But we haffi big up the Academy same way. It’s a great feeling, it’s a humbling feeling… This doesn’t come as a surprise but it’s welcomed.”Of all the songs he recorded in captivity, Kartel says his favorite may be “Any Weather,” an inspirational 2016 tune recorded at Spanish Town Prison with a chorus that states defiantly “We’re not going under.”“That’s a powerful song,” he said. “It’s an anthem right now. The concept behind it, the message is also true dancehall. Tell the youths them to uplift themselves from poverty and just do the right thing. It’s like me speaking my future into existence.”Since his release Kartel has wasted no time, kicking off the fourth era of his career with new singles like “The Comet” as well as “Nobody Move,” a collaboration with the international collective Major Lazer. Kartel has also recorded a soon-to-be-released collab with Nicki Minaj, and says new songs with Cardi B and Drake are in the works. A longtime Kartel supporter, Drake—who is rumored to make an appearance at the show—appears to have earned the dancehall star’s loyalty. Asked about the battle with Kendrick Lamar, Kartel says that contrary to popular belief, he feels that Drake won. “Kendrick is a lyricist and I am also a lyricist,” Kartel said. “So I appreciate his art. But to me, Drake gets the point across on a global scale.”When speaking of dancehall artists, Kartel gives maximum respect to Bounty Killer, the artist who first gave him a break in by making Kartel part of his crew the Alliance in the early 2000s. “He gave a bunch of us an opportunity to feed our families, to showcase our talent, and to become stars,” says Kartel, who was inspired to “pay it forward” by forming his own crew, the Portmore Empire, which brought future stars like Popcaan, Tommy Lee, and Gaza Slim to prominence. “I remember when all of them came around,” Kartel said. “Now they’re making money, taking care of their families. It’s beautiful. That’s how it should go though. Spread the love. Spreads the energy. God is the greatest.”Although Kartel had a lyrical feud with Bounty Killer before going to prison, he says that’s all in the past. Likewise he says he’s on good terms with his old rival Mavado, his arch-rival during the epic Gaza vs Gully wars. “The original Vybz Kartel was the war angel. Now I’m just chilling, I’m not involved in any feuding," Kartel says. "I don’t think I’ll go back there either. Leave that to the kids.” Once he tackles his homecoming concert, Kartel plans to continue recording and performing as well as promoting his rum and rolling paper brands, and working on a book about his time in prison, the follow-up to his previous title, Voice of the Jamaican Ghetto. Source link

[norajworld]

It’s been almost four months since Vybz Kartel walked out of Kingston’s General Penitentiary as a free man after serving nearly 13 years behind bars. Way back in September of 2011, the dancehall star was arrested for possession of cannabis before being hit with a murder charge. After a 64-day trial, the longest in Jamaican history, Kartel and his co-defendants—Kahira Jones, Andre St. John, and fellow dancehall artist Shawn Storm—were convicted and sentenced to life in prison. But Kartel never gave up hope.After appealing all the way to the highest court in the UK, the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council overturned the conviction in March 2024 due to misconduct—one of the jurors was accused of bribing others on the jury, which should have resulted in a mistrial. Months later the Jamaican government decided to drop the controversial case once and for all.After so many years in captivity the artist, born Adidja Palmer, is now enjoying life with his new fiancee Sidem Öztürk, reuniting with his family—including his sons Likkle Addi, Likkle Vybz, and his first grandchild—and savoring his first ever Grammy nomination for the album Party With Me. More importantly, after suffering from a serious thyroid condition while in prison, he finally has proper medical care and has been recovering well. “God is the greatest,” Kartel states in a new interview with Boomshots, recorded during the run-up to Freedom Street, his first live performance in more than a decade.“I was never a religious person, but going through what I’ve been through, it changed me,” Kartel said. “And it made me have a different perspective on what God has in store for my life. So yes, I became close to God—unfortunately in prison, but it is what it is.”Kartel will close out this remarkable year by performing alongside his sons, and many of his the young artists he helped to become stars including Spice, Popcaan, Tommy Lee, Shawn Storm, and Sheba, as well as new generation artists inspired by him like Skillibeng and Chronic Law. A few surprise guests are likely to pop out at Jamaica’s National Stadium on the evening of December 31. “This is the greatest assemblance of artists in dancehall,” Kartel said. “It’s like the Avengers, so obviously I have to be Tony Starks. Thanos, watch out!”Arguably the most dominant and divisive dancehall artist of the new millennium, Vybz Kartel’s career so far can be divided into three distinct eras. During the first era, from 1993 to 2000, he was Adi Banton, struggling in obscurity as part of a trio known as Vibes Cartel. The second era began when he went solo in the early 2000s, changing his name to its current spelling, and writing songs for Bounty Killer and Elephant Man before releasing his first hit song, “Gun Clown.” By the end of the second era, Kartel was a seemingly unstoppable force until his arrest in 2011. The third and longest era has played out behind bars, as Kartel continued his prolific run against all odds.Although Kartel has not touched a stage since 2011, he’s maintained his place at the top of the Jamaican dancehall scene despite being incarcerated. By secretly recording on smart phones and emailing his vocals to a close circle of trusted producers, Kartel was able to release hundreds of hit singles like his 2016 smash “Fever,” which got heavy international airplay and was certified gold. Although he released more than a dozen albums during his time in prison, Party With Me is his first release to be nominated for Best Reggae Album.“Long overdue, Academy,” Kartel said. “But we haffi big up the Academy same way. It’s a great feeling, it’s a humbling feeling… This doesn’t come as a surprise but it’s welcomed.”Of all the songs he recorded in captivity, Kartel says his favorite may be “Any Weather,” an inspirational 2016 tune recorded at Spanish Town Prison with a chorus that states defiantly “We’re not going under.”“That’s a powerful song,” he said. “It’s an anthem right now. The concept behind it, the message is also true dancehall. Tell the youths them to uplift themselves from poverty and just do the right thing. It’s like me speaking my future into existence.”Since his release Kartel has wasted no time, kicking off the fourth era of his career with new singles like “The Comet” as well as “Nobody Move,” a collaboration with the international collective Major Lazer. Kartel has also recorded a soon-to-be-released collab with Nicki Minaj, and says new songs with Cardi B and Drake are in the works. A longtime Kartel supporter, Drake—who is rumored to make an appearance at the show—appears to have earned the dancehall star’s loyalty. Asked about the battle with Kendrick Lamar, Kartel says that contrary to popular belief, he feels that Drake won. “Kendrick is a lyricist and I am also a lyricist,” Kartel said. “So I appreciate his art. But to me, Drake gets the point across on a global scale.”When speaking of dancehall artists, Kartel gives maximum respect to Bounty Killer, the artist who first gave him a break in by making Kartel part of his crew the Alliance in the early 2000s. “He gave a bunch of us an opportunity to feed our families, to showcase our talent, and to become stars,” says Kartel, who was inspired to “pay it forward” by forming his own crew, the Portmore Empire, which brought future stars like Popcaan, Tommy Lee, and Gaza Slim to prominence. “I remember when all of them came around,” Kartel said. “Now they’re making money, taking care of their families. It’s beautiful. That’s how it should go though. Spread the love. Spreads the energy. God is the greatest.”Although Kartel had a lyrical feud with Bounty Killer before going to prison, he says that’s all in the past. Likewise he says he’s on good terms with his old rival Mavado, his arch-rival during the epic Gaza vs Gully wars. “The original Vybz Kartel was the war angel. Now I’m just chilling, I’m not involved in any feuding," Kartel says. "I don’t think I’ll go back there either. Leave that to the kids.” Once he tackles his homecoming concert, Kartel plans to continue recording and performing as well as promoting his rum and rolling paper brands, and working on a book about his time in prison, the follow-up to his previous title, Voice of the Jamaican Ghetto. Source link

[ellajme0]

It’s been almost four months since Vybz Kartel walked out of Kingston’s General Penitentiary as a free man after serving nearly 13 years behind bars. Way back in September of 2011, the dancehall star was arrested for possession of cannabis before being hit with a murder charge. After a 64-day trial, the longest in Jamaican history, Kartel and his co-defendants—Kahira Jones, Andre St. John, and fellow dancehall artist Shawn Storm—were convicted and sentenced to life in prison. But Kartel never gave up hope.After appealing all the way to the highest court in the UK, the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council overturned the conviction in March 2024 due to misconduct—one of the jurors was accused of bribing others on the jury, which should have resulted in a mistrial. Months later the Jamaican government decided to drop the controversial case once and for all.After so many years in captivity the artist, born Adidja Palmer, is now enjoying life with his new fiancee Sidem Öztürk, reuniting with his family—including his sons Likkle Addi, Likkle Vybz, and his first grandchild—and savoring his first ever Grammy nomination for the album Party With Me. More importantly, after suffering from a serious thyroid condition while in prison, he finally has proper medical care and has been recovering well. “God is the greatest,” Kartel states in a new interview with Boomshots, recorded during the run-up to Freedom Street, his first live performance in more than a decade.“I was never a religious person, but going through what I’ve been through, it changed me,” Kartel said. “And it made me have a different perspective on what God has in store for my life. So yes, I became close to God—unfortunately in prison, but it is what it is.”Kartel will close out this remarkable year by performing alongside his sons, and many of his the young artists he helped to become stars including Spice, Popcaan, Tommy Lee, Shawn Storm, and Sheba, as well as new generation artists inspired by him like Skillibeng and Chronic Law. A few surprise guests are likely to pop out at Jamaica’s National Stadium on the evening of December 31. “This is the greatest assemblance of artists in dancehall,” Kartel said. “It’s like the Avengers, so obviously I have to be Tony Starks. Thanos, watch out!”Arguably the most dominant and divisive dancehall artist of the new millennium, Vybz Kartel’s career so far can be divided into three distinct eras. During the first era, from 1993 to 2000, he was Adi Banton, struggling in obscurity as part of a trio known as Vibes Cartel. The second era began when he went solo in the early 2000s, changing his name to its current spelling, and writing songs for Bounty Killer and Elephant Man before releasing his first hit song, “Gun Clown.” By the end of the second era, Kartel was a seemingly unstoppable force until his arrest in 2011. The third and longest era has played out behind bars, as Kartel continued his prolific run against all odds.Although Kartel has not touched a stage since 2011, he’s maintained his place at the top of the Jamaican dancehall scene despite being incarcerated. By secretly recording on smart phones and emailing his vocals to a close circle of trusted producers, Kartel was able to release hundreds of hit singles like his 2016 smash “Fever,” which got heavy international airplay and was certified gold. Although he released more than a dozen albums during his time in prison, Party With Me is his first release to be nominated for Best Reggae Album.“Long overdue, Academy,” Kartel said. “But we haffi big up the Academy same way. It’s a great feeling, it’s a humbling feeling… This doesn’t come as a surprise but it’s welcomed.”Of all the songs he recorded in captivity, Kartel says his favorite may be “Any Weather,” an inspirational 2016 tune recorded at Spanish Town Prison with a chorus that states defiantly “We’re not going under.”“That’s a powerful song,” he said. “It’s an anthem right now. The concept behind it, the message is also true dancehall. Tell the youths them to uplift themselves from poverty and just do the right thing. It’s like me speaking my future into existence.”Since his release Kartel has wasted no time, kicking off the fourth era of his career with new singles like “The Comet” as well as “Nobody Move,” a collaboration with the international collective Major Lazer. Kartel has also recorded a soon-to-be-released collab with Nicki Minaj, and says new songs with Cardi B and Drake are in the works. A longtime Kartel supporter, Drake—who is rumored to make an appearance at the show—appears to have earned the dancehall star’s loyalty. Asked about the battle with Kendrick Lamar, Kartel says that contrary to popular belief, he feels that Drake won. “Kendrick is a lyricist and I am also a lyricist,” Kartel said. “So I appreciate his art. But to me, Drake gets the point across on a global scale.”When speaking of dancehall artists, Kartel gives maximum respect to Bounty Killer, the artist who first gave him a break in by making Kartel part of his crew the Alliance in the early 2000s. “He gave a bunch of us an opportunity to feed our families, to showcase our talent, and to become stars,” says Kartel, who was inspired to “pay it forward” by forming his own crew, the Portmore Empire, which brought future stars like Popcaan, Tommy Lee, and Gaza Slim to prominence. “I remember when all of them came around,” Kartel said. “Now they’re making money, taking care of their families. It’s beautiful. That’s how it should go though. Spread the love. Spreads the energy. God is the greatest.”Although Kartel had a lyrical feud with Bounty Killer before going to prison, he says that’s all in the past. Likewise he says he’s on good terms with his old rival Mavado, his arch-rival during the epic Gaza vs Gully wars. “The original Vybz Kartel was the war angel. Now I’m just chilling, I’m not involved in any feuding," Kartel says. "I don’t think I’ll go back there either. Leave that to the kids.” Once he tackles his homecoming concert, Kartel plans to continue recording and performing as well as promoting his rum and rolling paper brands, and working on a book about his time in prison, the follow-up to his previous title, Voice of the Jamaican Ghetto. Source link

[chilimili212]

It’s been almost four months since Vybz Kartel walked out of Kingston’s General Penitentiary as a free man after serving nearly 13 years behind bars. Way back in September of 2011, the dancehall star was arrested for possession of cannabis before being hit with a murder charge. After a 64-day trial, the longest in Jamaican history, Kartel and his co-defendants—Kahira Jones, Andre St. John, and fellow dancehall artist Shawn Storm—were convicted and sentenced to life in prison. But Kartel never gave up hope.After appealing all the way to the highest court in the UK, the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council overturned the conviction in March 2024 due to misconduct—one of the jurors was accused of bribing others on the jury, which should have resulted in a mistrial. Months later the Jamaican government decided to drop the controversial case once and for all.After so many years in captivity the artist, born Adidja Palmer, is now enjoying life with his new fiancee Sidem Öztürk, reuniting with his family—including his sons Likkle Addi, Likkle Vybz, and his first grandchild—and savoring his first ever Grammy nomination for the album Party With Me. More importantly, after suffering from a serious thyroid condition while in prison, he finally has proper medical care and has been recovering well. “God is the greatest,” Kartel states in a new interview with Boomshots, recorded during the run-up to Freedom Street, his first live performance in more than a decade.“I was never a religious person, but going through what I’ve been through, it changed me,” Kartel said. “And it made me have a different perspective on what God has in store for my life. So yes, I became close to God—unfortunately in prison, but it is what it is.”Kartel will close out this remarkable year by performing alongside his sons, and many of his the young artists he helped to become stars including Spice, Popcaan, Tommy Lee, Shawn Storm, and Sheba, as well as new generation artists inspired by him like Skillibeng and Chronic Law. A few surprise guests are likely to pop out at Jamaica’s National Stadium on the evening of December 31. “This is the greatest assemblance of artists in dancehall,” Kartel said. “It’s like the Avengers, so obviously I have to be Tony Starks. Thanos, watch out!”Arguably the most dominant and divisive dancehall artist of the new millennium, Vybz Kartel’s career so far can be divided into three distinct eras. During the first era, from 1993 to 2000, he was Adi Banton, struggling in obscurity as part of a trio known as Vibes Cartel. The second era began when he went solo in the early 2000s, changing his name to its current spelling, and writing songs for Bounty Killer and Elephant Man before releasing his first hit song, “Gun Clown.” By the end of the second era, Kartel was a seemingly unstoppable force until his arrest in 2011. The third and longest era has played out behind bars, as Kartel continued his prolific run against all odds.Although Kartel has not touched a stage since 2011, he’s maintained his place at the top of the Jamaican dancehall scene despite being incarcerated. By secretly recording on smart phones and emailing his vocals to a close circle of trusted producers, Kartel was able to release hundreds of hit singles like his 2016 smash “Fever,” which got heavy international airplay and was certified gold. Although he released more than a dozen albums during his time in prison, Party With Me is his first release to be nominated for Best Reggae Album.“Long overdue, Academy,” Kartel said. “But we haffi big up the Academy same way. It’s a great feeling, it’s a humbling feeling… This doesn’t come as a surprise but it’s welcomed.”Of all the songs he recorded in captivity, Kartel says his favorite may be “Any Weather,” an inspirational 2016 tune recorded at Spanish Town Prison with a chorus that states defiantly “We’re not going under.”“That’s a powerful song,” he said. “It’s an anthem right now. The concept behind it, the message is also true dancehall. Tell the youths them to uplift themselves from poverty and just do the right thing. It’s like me speaking my future into existence.”Since his release Kartel has wasted no time, kicking off the fourth era of his career with new singles like “The Comet” as well as “Nobody Move,” a collaboration with the international collective Major Lazer. Kartel has also recorded a soon-to-be-released collab with Nicki Minaj, and says new songs with Cardi B and Drake are in the works. A longtime Kartel supporter, Drake—who is rumored to make an appearance at the show—appears to have earned the dancehall star’s loyalty. Asked about the battle with Kendrick Lamar, Kartel says that contrary to popular belief, he feels that Drake won. “Kendrick is a lyricist and I am also a lyricist,” Kartel said. “So I appreciate his art. But to me, Drake gets the point across on a global scale.”When speaking of dancehall artists, Kartel gives maximum respect to Bounty Killer, the artist who first gave him a break in by making Kartel part of his crew the Alliance in the early 2000s. “He gave a bunch of us an opportunity to feed our families, to showcase our talent, and to become stars,” says Kartel, who was inspired to “pay it forward” by forming his own crew, the Portmore Empire, which brought future stars like Popcaan, Tommy Lee, and Gaza Slim to prominence. “I remember when all of them came around,” Kartel said. “Now they’re making money, taking care of their families. It’s beautiful. That’s how it should go though. Spread the love. Spreads the energy. God is the greatest.”Although Kartel had a lyrical feud with Bounty Killer before going to prison, he says that’s all in the past. Likewise he says he’s on good terms with his old rival Mavado, his arch-rival during the epic Gaza vs Gully wars. “The original Vybz Kartel was the war angel. Now I’m just chilling, I’m not involved in any feuding," Kartel says. "I don’t think I’ll go back there either. Leave that to the kids.” Once he tackles his homecoming concert, Kartel plans to continue recording and performing as well as promoting his rum and rolling paper brands, and working on a book about his time in prison, the follow-up to his previous title, Voice of the Jamaican Ghetto. Source link

[donospl]

Co w jazzie piszczy [sezon 2 odcinek 34]

premierowa emisja 25 września 2024 – 18:00 Graliśmy: Alice Zawadzki, Fred Thomas. Misha Mullov-Abbado „Nani Nani” z albumu „Za górami” – ECM Recrods Kiko Dinucci & Luise Volkmann „Exname [Radio Edit]” z albumu „Exname” Nora Benamara „Amnesia” z albumu “Amnesia.  Jazz Thing Next Generation Vol. 104” – Double Moon Records Blaly “Nystalgi” _ z albumu “Nystalgi” – April Records Anders Malta…

[oliviajoyice21]

It’s been almost four months since Vybz Kartel walked out of Kingston’s General Penitentiary as a free man after serving nearly 13 years behind bars. Way back in September of 2011, the dancehall star was arrested for possession of cannabis before being hit with a murder charge. After a 64-day trial, the longest in Jamaican history, Kartel and his co-defendants—Kahira Jones, Andre St. John, and fellow dancehall artist Shawn Storm—were convicted and sentenced to life in prison. But Kartel never gave up hope.After appealing all the way to the highest court in the UK, the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council overturned the conviction in March 2024 due to misconduct—one of the jurors was accused of bribing others on the jury, which should have resulted in a mistrial. Months later the Jamaican government decided to drop the controversial case once and for all.After so many years in captivity the artist, born Adidja Palmer, is now enjoying life with his new fiancee Sidem Öztürk, reuniting with his family—including his sons Likkle Addi, Likkle Vybz, and his first grandchild—and savoring his first ever Grammy nomination for the album Party With Me. More importantly, after suffering from a serious thyroid condition while in prison, he finally has proper medical care and has been recovering well. “God is the greatest,” Kartel states in a new interview with Boomshots, recorded during the run-up to Freedom Street, his first live performance in more than a decade.“I was never a religious person, but going through what I’ve been through, it changed me,” Kartel said. “And it made me have a different perspective on what God has in store for my life. So yes, I became close to God—unfortunately in prison, but it is what it is.”Kartel will close out this remarkable year by performing alongside his sons, and many of his the young artists he helped to become stars including Spice, Popcaan, Tommy Lee, Shawn Storm, and Sheba, as well as new generation artists inspired by him like Skillibeng and Chronic Law. A few surprise guests are likely to pop out at Jamaica’s National Stadium on the evening of December 31. “This is the greatest assemblance of artists in dancehall,” Kartel said. “It’s like the Avengers, so obviously I have to be Tony Starks. Thanos, watch out!”Arguably the most dominant and divisive dancehall artist of the new millennium, Vybz Kartel’s career so far can be divided into three distinct eras. During the first era, from 1993 to 2000, he was Adi Banton, struggling in obscurity as part of a trio known as Vibes Cartel. The second era began when he went solo in the early 2000s, changing his name to its current spelling, and writing songs for Bounty Killer and Elephant Man before releasing his first hit song, “Gun Clown.” By the end of the second era, Kartel was a seemingly unstoppable force until his arrest in 2011. The third and longest era has played out behind bars, as Kartel continued his prolific run against all odds.Although Kartel has not touched a stage since 2011, he’s maintained his place at the top of the Jamaican dancehall scene despite being incarcerated. By secretly recording on smart phones and emailing his vocals to a close circle of trusted producers, Kartel was able to release hundreds of hit singles like his 2016 smash “Fever,” which got heavy international airplay and was certified gold. Although he released more than a dozen albums during his time in prison, Party With Me is his first release to be nominated for Best Reggae Album.“Long overdue, Academy,” Kartel said. “But we haffi big up the Academy same way. It’s a great feeling, it’s a humbling feeling… This doesn’t come as a surprise but it’s welcomed.”Of all the songs he recorded in captivity, Kartel says his favorite may be “Any Weather,” an inspirational 2016 tune recorded at Spanish Town Prison with a chorus that states defiantly “We’re not going under.”“That’s a powerful song,” he said. “It’s an anthem right now. The concept behind it, the message is also true dancehall. Tell the youths them to uplift themselves from poverty and just do the right thing. It’s like me speaking my future into existence.”Since his release Kartel has wasted no time, kicking off the fourth era of his career with new singles like “The Comet” as well as “Nobody Move,” a collaboration with the international collective Major Lazer. Kartel has also recorded a soon-to-be-released collab with Nicki Minaj, and says new songs with Cardi B and Drake are in the works. A longtime Kartel supporter, Drake—who is rumored to make an appearance at the show—appears to have earned the dancehall star’s loyalty. Asked about the battle with Kendrick Lamar, Kartel says that contrary to popular belief, he feels that Drake won. “Kendrick is a lyricist and I am also a lyricist,” Kartel said. “So I appreciate his art. But to me, Drake gets the point across on a global scale.”When speaking of dancehall artists, Kartel gives maximum respect to Bounty Killer, the artist who first gave him a break in by making Kartel part of his crew the Alliance in the early 2000s. “He gave a bunch of us an opportunity to feed our families, to showcase our talent, and to become stars,” says Kartel, who was inspired to “pay it forward” by forming his own crew, the Portmore Empire, which brought future stars like Popcaan, Tommy Lee, and Gaza Slim to prominence. “I remember when all of them came around,” Kartel said. “Now they’re making money, taking care of their families. It’s beautiful. That’s how it should go though. Spread the love. Spreads the energy. God is the greatest.”Although Kartel had a lyrical feud with Bounty Killer before going to prison, he says that’s all in the past. Likewise he says he’s on good terms with his old rival Mavado, his arch-rival during the epic Gaza vs Gully wars. “The original Vybz Kartel was the war angel. Now I’m just chilling, I’m not involved in any feuding," Kartel says. "I don’t think I’ll go back there either. Leave that to the kids.” Once he tackles his homecoming concert, Kartel plans to continue recording and performing as well as promoting his rum and rolling paper brands, and working on a book about his time in prison, the follow-up to his previous title, Voice of the Jamaican Ghetto. Source link

[music-dmt]

Women in Music – Power and Poise

The contributions of women in the music industry have been nothing short of transformative. Across genres, women have brought a unique blend of creativity, resilience, and talent to the forefront, shaping the soundtracks of our lives. From chart-topping pop hits to soulful ballads, their artistry continues to inspire generations. Among the most influential figures in this realm are the Hollywood singers female who have consistently redefined standards with their vocal prowess and magnetic stage presence. Their ability to connect with audiences, both emotionally and intellectually, has cemented their position as icons of global music.

Women’s contributions to the music industry extend far beyond their vocal talents. They have influenced production, songwriting, and even the evolution of music genres. For instance, artists like Adele and Taylor Swift have turned personal experiences into universal anthems, resonating with fans across cultures. Meanwhile, Lady Gaga’s theatrical performances and advocacy work have redefined what it means to be a pop artist. Their journeys highlight the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in art, elements that allow audiences to see reflections of themselves in the music they love.

Parallel to the success of pop icons, the rise of rap as a dominant genre has been bolstered by women’s contributions. Female rappers like Nicki Minaj and Cardi B have shattered stereotypes and dominated charts, paving the way for more women in a traditionally male-dominated field. Their success mirrors the influence of gang rappers in storytelling, with lyrics that are unapologetically bold and authentic. These women have demonstrated that rap is not just a platform for social commentary but also an avenue for self-expression and empowerment.

While many women have succeeded individually, their impact collectively has also been significant. Collaborative projects among female artists have brought attention to pressing social issues such as mental health, equality, and body positivity. These collaborations serve as a reminder that music is not only a form of entertainment but also a powerful tool for change. A notable example is Beyoncé's Lemonade, an album that weaves narratives of personal and collective struggles into a masterpiece. Similarly, artists like Billie Eilish have used their platforms to redefine beauty and success, championing individuality over conformity.

Looking at the broader spectrum of the industry, the influence of iconic artists such as Aretha Franklin and Whitney Houston continues to ripple through time. Their timeless music remains a source of inspiration for contemporary artists. Many modern performers, from Ariana Grande to Lizzo, have openly acknowledged their debt to these legends. Albums and tracks that evoke deep emotions often serve as milestones in people’s lives, much like the cultural significance attached to all Eminem albums, which are celebrated for their introspective and groundbreaking lyrics.

The power of female representation in music was also evident during the rise of K-pop on the international stage. While boy bands like BTS dominate headlines with achievements such as the BTS Billboard Awards, female K-pop idols have played an equally vital role in promoting Korean culture globally. Groups like Blackpink have shown that language is no barrier to stardom, breaking records and gaining fans worldwide. Their contributions highlight the universality of music and the power of women to lead in any sphere.

Lyrically, women continue to excel in crafting songs that touch on themes of love, loss, hope, and resilience. Tracks like Someone Like You by Adele or Truth Hurts by Lizzo resonate deeply, proving that honesty in music is timeless. Similarly, songs like My Oh My, featuring catchy beats and meaningful storytelling, have garnered widespread appreciation. The lyrical strength behind my oh my lyrics reflects how female artists often excel in connecting with audiences on a deeply personal level.

Beyond the music, many female artists have used their influence to support causes close to their hearts. Whether it’s advocating for mental health awareness, championing environmental causes, or supporting marginalized communities, their philanthropic work underscores the importance of using fame for good. Artists like Rihanna, with her Clara Lionel Foundation, and Taylor Swift, through her donations to disaster relief, demonstrate how women in music continue to lead by example.

The journey of women in music hasn’t been without challenges. The industry has long been criticized for gender disparities in representation, pay, and opportunities. However, the resilience of female artists and their ability to overcome these barriers have become stories of inspiration. Programs and initiatives aimed at supporting young female musicians are helping to bridge these gaps, ensuring that the next generation has access to opportunities that were once scarce.

As we look to the future, the impact of women in music will undoubtedly continue to grow. With trailblazers like Beyoncé, Billie Eilish, and Blackpink leading the way, young artists are inspired to push boundaries and redefine success on their terms. The diverse contributions of women across genres and generations remind us that music is a powerful medium for connection, change, and celebration.

Music is more than a form of entertainment—it is a mirror of society. The voices of Hollywood singers female, the narratives of rap’s trailblazers, and the achievements at events like the BTS Billboard Awards all underscore the vital role of women in shaping cultural discourse. From emotional ballads to fierce rap verses, their work continues to inspire and empower audiences globally. As listeners, we have the privilege of witnessing the evolution of music through the eyes of these extraordinary women. Who are your favorite female artists, and how have they impacted your life? Let us know in the comments!

[newmusicradionetwork]

Pop singer-songwriter Ashley Elle beautifully captures the emotional turmoil of holding on to someone who no longer serves you in her new single, “One More Night.” Weaving together heart-wrenching lyrics and ethereal melodies, Ashley Elle brings solace to anyone caught in the cycle of romantic entanglements. “One More Night” is available now on all streaming platforms. A rising voice in the indie-pop music scene, Ashley Elle continues to showcase her versatility as an artist, seamlessly blending the genuine storytelling of folk with the rich, sonic soundscapes of dream pop. “One More Night” is no exception for Ashley Elle, taking listeners on a journey through the subtle longing of a love frozen in time. Featuring warm acoustic melodies, echoing vocals, and intoxicating atmospheric layers, she captivates listeners, offering a space to explore deep emotion and self-reflection. The song explores the internal battle between the heart and mind, capturing the powerful tension of staying connected to someone, even when they’re not right for you. “‘One More Night’ is a song for those who feel trapped within the push and pull of a toxic relationship,” she shares. “It’s the realization that just because you may love somebody deeply, doesn’t mean that person is good for you. Learning how to let them go while being blinded by love is one of the hardest things to do.” Produced by Josh Lovell (K. Flay, Benson Boone, Bully), listeners are drawn into the poetic themes of longing, vulnerability, and self-discovery with Ashley Elle’s striking lyricism conveying the difficulty of choosing self-preservation over love. The storytelling in “One More Night,” co-written with Hank Compton (GAYLE, K. Flay, Savannah Conley), is intricately arranged, shedding light on the universal experience of navigating unhealthy relationships. Ashley Elle speaks on the difficulty of breaking free, making the track a painfully relatable anthem for anyone who has struggled with moving on from something that no longer serves them. Ashley Elle’s passion for music began at a young age, as she spent countless hours singing and playing the piano and guitar. Despite her natural and authentic talent, she was initially shy about sharing her voice until her father encouraged her to record in a studio. From that experience, Ashley Elle discovered her love for music, immersing herself in the art of songwriting, drawing inspiration from personal experiences of heartbreak, love, and mental health. Ashley Elle signed with Given Entertainment in Nashville in 2019, collaborating with producers and further discovering her indie-pop sound. Now based in Los Angeles, she has been recognized in Kings of A&R, Ones to Watch, Wonderland, and CelebMix, and has been featured in countless Spotify playlists, amassing over 600K streams. Ashley Elle continues solidifying herself as a force to be reckoned with in the pop music scene as she remains fiercely individualistic, continuously offering a sonic journey through life’s moments of beauty and sensitivity. Stream “One More Night” now on all digital music platforms and follow along on her upcoming musical endeavors on her Instagram @AashleyElle and website AshleyElleMusic.com. Read the full article

[burlveneer-music]

Flock II - Bex Burch & co., out today from Strut Records; serendipitously similar in approach and aesthetic to the previous new release I posted (Yaryu)

UK supergroup Flock return with their anticipated sophomore album ‘Flock II’. Comprising an exceptional line-up featuring Bex Burch (fresh from her debut solo album on International Anthem), Sarathy Korwar, Tamar Osborn (Collocutor, Dele Sosimi, Unknown To Known), Danalogue (The Comet Is Coming / Soccer96) and Al MacSween (Kefaya), the new recordings showcase Flock’s ability to push the boundaries of the composition process and craft unique tracks based on their collective spirit. Recorded amidst the serene landscapes of the Welsh countryside during 2022, 'Flock II' emerges as a compelling departure from their debut album, which was captured in a single day at London's Fish Factory. Nestled within the enchanting environs of the Druidstone, a mystical coastal retreat in West Wales, the group embarked on an immersive week-long recording session. Here, they crafted unique "jump-off" devices for each musical piece, drawing inspiration from unconventional structures and atmospheres. From diagrams utilising shapes and repeated patterns to a revolving lamp throwing out dappled light and a mobile app creating intense strobe effects in front of each musician, each device set a state of mind and a unique approach to their compositions. Studio Owz, housed in a converted country church, provided an ideal setting for their creative exploration. The resulting compositions, ranging from intense to hypnotic, invite listeners to embark on a deeply personal voyage, weaving their own narratives amidst the ethereal soundscape. The fruits of a strong and joyful bond between five of the UK’s finest musicians, ‘Flock II’ stands as another essential recording without genre or category. Cover artwork illustration is courtesy of the brilliant Muhammad “Rofi” Fatchurofi, providing the ideal nebulous artistic foil to Flock’s creation. 

[tinygmusic]

NIKI RELEASES NEW ALBUM 'BUZZ' & SHARES TITLE TRACK MV

Rosa Gulliver of TINYGMUSIC | 9th August 2024

Jakarta-born, LA-based singer-songwriter and producer NIKI firmly plants herself as one of the most dynamic artists of today with the release of her new album Buzz via 88rising, out now. Accompanying the release is the music video for title track “Buzz,” directed by Isaac Ravishankara. The video, a cheeky line-by-line depiction of the lyrics, encapsulates the rush of raw emotion and bittersweet nerves of a budding romance – glimpses of buzzing bees, a crackling guitar amp, and longing looks between two people, all signaling towards the start of something new. NIKI was initially inspired to name the record after the budding growth she observed in her garden every spring. Across thirteen tracks on the album, the singer encapsulates the feeling of being on the precipice of something undiscovered.

The album’s release joins previous singles; the love struck summer track, “Tsunami,” astrologically-inspired song “Blue Moon,” and flirty lead single “Too Much of a Good Thing.” NIKI plans to celebrate Buzz with a comprehensive world tour, produced by Live Nation, kicking off this fall. Tickets are available now HERE. See below for full routing.

 

NORTH AMERICA

Sep 5, 2024 - Toronto ON - Budweiser Stage

Sep 7, 2024 - Boston MA - MGM Music Hall at Fenway

Sep 8, 2024 - Washington DC - The Anthem

Sep 12, 2024 - Philadelphia PA - The Met

Sep 13, 2024 - New York City NY - SummerStage in Central Park

Sep 16, 2024 - Charlotte NC - Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre

Sep 17, 2024 - Atlanta GA - Coca-Cola Roxy

Sep 19, 2024 - Houston TX - 713 Music Hall

Sep 20, 2024 - Austin TX - Moody Amphitheater

Sep 21, 2024 - Dallas TX - The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory

Sep 25, 2024 - Chicago IL - Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom

Sep 27, 2024 - Minneapolis MN - The Armory

Sep 29, 2024 - Denver CO - Fillmore Auditorium

Oct 1, 2024 - Salt Lake City UT - The Union Event Center

Oct 3, 2024 - Berkeley CA - The Greek Theatre *

Oct 8, 2024 - Phoenix AZ - Arizona Financial Theatre

Oct 10, 2024 - Las Vegas NV - The Chelsea at the Cosmopolitan

Oct 11, 2024 - Los Angeles CA - The Greek Theatre

Oct 12, 2024 - Los Angeles CA - The Greek Theatre

Oct 14, 2024 - San Diego CA - Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre

Oct 17, 2024 - Portland OR - Alaska Airlines’ Theater of the Clouds

Oct 18, 2024 - Seattle WA - WAMU Theater at Lumen Field

Oct 19, 2024 - Vancouver BC - Rogers Arena

 

* Non-Live Nation Date

 

EUROPE

Oct 27, 2024 - Brussels BE - La Madeleine

Oct 29, 2024 - Cologne DE - Palladium

Nov 1, 2024 - Paris FR - L’Olympia

Nov 2, 2024 - Tilburg NL - Poppodium 013

Nov 6, 2024 - Manchester UK - O2 Apollo Manchester

Nov 7, 2024 - London UK - OVO Arena, Wembley

Nov 10, 2024 - Dublin IE - 3Olympia Theatre

 

ASIA

Feb 9, 2025 - Hong Kong

Feb 11, 2025 - Manila

Feb 12, 2025 - Manila

Feb 14, 2025 - Jakarta

Feb 15, 2025 - Jakarta

Feb 18, 2025 - Singapore

Feb 20, 2025 - Taipei

Feb 22, 2025 - Bangkok

Feb 25, 2025 - Kuala Lumpur

Feb 26, 2025 - Kuala Lumpur

 

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

Mar 5, 2025 - Perth AU

Mar 7, 2025 - Brisbane AU

Mar 9, 2025 - Sydney AU

Mar 13, 2025 - Melbourne AU

Mar 15, 2025 - Auckland NZ

 

What eventually became Buzz, the third studio album by singer-songwriter and globally-renowned star NIKI, started with an urgent quake from the innermost core of her being. What surfaced in its wake was a collection of warm, stirring folk-rock songs, which crackle and flare like a bonfire between close confidantes. “I went through an identity crisis,” says the 25-year-old of Buzz. “It took a lot of trial and error, and I just stumbled upon pieces of myself along the way. I named it Buzz because it feels like I'm on the precipice of something about to happen.”

 

For NIKI, things have been happening progressively since she was a high schooler in Jakarta, Indonesia. As a student at an international academy, she cut her teeth scribbling lovesick poems in English class and performed acoustic guitar covers of American pop songs on YouTube. With a six-string in hand, and her family and classmates cheering her on from the audience, Nicole Zefanya then staked her claim to global stardom as NIKI.

 

And claim it she has - with over three billion streams worldwide, sold out shows on multiple continents, massive sets at festivals across the globe, front row seats at Paris Fashion Week, four songs on a Marvel film’s soundtrack, and some of the most phenomenal, confessional songs being released in 2024, NIKI has already established a veteran’s resume before the age of 25.

NIKI - Photo Credit: Annie Lai

On Buzz, her songwriting remains as intimate as ever. In her initial sketches of songs for Buzz, NIKI took cues from other lane-paving women with confessional, honest lyricism soundtracked by guitars.  “Joni Mitchell is my songwriting north star,” she says — and uncompromising feminist luminaries like Stevie Nicks, Carly Simon and Liz Phair. To match the wandering spirit of Buzz, NIKI cultivated her own elastic approach to guitar.

 

To further harness this creative and personal sea change, NIKI began enlisting producers who had worked with her favourite contemporary singer-songwriters. She tapped Tyler Chester, who’d captured tracks with Madison Cunningham and Sara Bareilles; she also recruited Ethan Gruska, who counts Fiona Apple and Phoebe Bridgers as collaborators.

Buzz reverberates with the hard-earned wisdom of a young woman who charges dauntlessly towards her dreams — but can still spare a laugh if she stumbles.

About NIKI

NIKI born Nicole Zefanya on January 24 1999, is an Indonesian singer-songwriter. She is currently based in the United States and signed with the record label 88rising. She released her first full-length studio album, Moonchild, in 2020. It was followed by Nicole (2022) and recently Buzz (2024). Her debut headlining concert tour, Nicole World Tour (2022–2023), visited over 40 cities across North America, Asia, Australia, and Europe.

NIKI has garnered global recognition for her songwriting and musicianship and is among the most popular female artists from Indonesia. In 2020, NIKI was listed among Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia.

About 88rising

88rising, stylised as 88⬆, is an American record label established in 2015, known as a multifaceted entity combining management, record label functions, video production, and marketing.

The label has risen to prominence as a music platform and record label, especially for Asian American artists, and has been dubbed "The Disney of Asian hip-hop." In 2019, 88rising earned the title of Label of the Year from Netease, a major music streaming service in China.

In 2018, 88rising launched its inaugural Head in the Clouds Festival in Los Angeles, which Billboard promptly recognized as "the Asian Festival You Need To Know."

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