Watch “Ice Cream” by Mika 

What song should I write about on the hottest day of the year so far, I asked myself this morning? Bing, as if by prompting, I noticed the music video for the new Mika track “Ice Cream” had popped up in my inbox. I have never had any trouble saying yes to a helping of ice cream. I can happily wolf down, a smorgasbord of the stuff. Similarly the same applies to the joyfully, colourful music Mika makes. I make no hesitation to get his tunes in my ears. It is as instinctive to me as spoonfeeding creamed frozen desserts into my belly. Thoughts of ice cream were not far from my mind anyway, as I have my suitcase packed. I’m just about to begin my summer holiday. I’m so ready. Before I depart for a few days of chillaxing. (They’ll be no blog posts from me for the next few days) I want to take a closer look at the “Ice Cream” music video.

People of the UK, and folks in parts of Europe will especially identify with the characters who are seeking ways to cool themselves down in this music video. As we live in countries where air conditioning facilities are not so widespread or commonplace as in other parts of the world, which bask in hotter temperatures as the norm. The opening scenes in this music video where we see a dude slouched on his living room couch in his underwear. Feet placed in a bowl of water, surrounded by pedestal fans. A lady taking a bath in ice and another cooling herself by placing her head inside the fridge door. Amply represent the kind of scenes you would have seen if you peeked beyond the curtains of many of our homes, during the sweltering heatwave of 2018. We had to resort to such measures because Mika wasn’t yet, bringing his ice cream to our yard. Because he was in Italy writing this song with Daniel Black and preparing his next album “My Name Is Michael Holbrook“, out October, 4th.

“The song is a daydream fantasy. It shimmers like a mirage and makes me feel like anything is possible. Inspired by the irreverent attitude of the music of the 90s: George Michael among others. Dare to be the more proud version of yourself. Dare to be a sensual man, dare to express out loud the desires you always keep inside your head. That’s why and how I wrote it.” Mika, says of the song.

You can always depend on Mika to inject a big element of fun into much of everything he does. It really wouldn’t be quite the same if we didn’t see and hear evidence of his playful nature beaming out through his music. He first came to our attention by showing us “Life In Cartoon Motion” and he hasn’t stopped from being authentic to this trend. Thank the pop gods. He’s a treasure. An incredible songwriter, and is giving us the biggest scoop of summery vibes imaginable in his new song “Ice Cream“.

!DON’T MISS YOUR CHANCE TO SEE MIKA LIVE! ON HIS EUROPEAN TOUR

Tickets on sale HERE

Connect with MIKA
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mikasounds
Twitter: @mikasounds
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikainstagram/

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Watch “A New Way” by morgxn 

Already being a fan of the song “A New Way” by morgxn, I am especially pleased to see the arrival of the music video which goes alongside it. Like much of his existing repertoire, the narrative of the track is mighty and powerful. Implementing a relatable theme about growing in confidence, pushing through dark times, and emerging into the light with positivity on board. A song of hope and renewed optimism. It sees morgxn in his element in all areas of performance.

home” was such a massive song for morgxn last year, but “A New Way” has its own kind of fierceness to match. An anthem for all lost souls, to find inner peace within themselves. It has modern classic written all over it. The supporting video clip is directed by Matt Delisi and features LGBTQ+ community members Melissa Befierce, Lori Queen, Sonique, Gracie Cartier, Jeffrey Bertollini, Amber Romero and more. It captures the singer catching up with his past, reliving memories and finding a sense of self-made resolution to carry him forward. The clip begins, where we see him sitting in a dimly lit room summonsing up past episodes of turmoil, in flashbacks. The visual ends with the singer standing on a rooftop. Somewhere in between, we see him in the midst of a nightclub. It tells a soul-stirring story, and I will let you watch it all pan out for yourselves.

As morgxn lives over the pond in LA, he doesn’t come over the UK too often. STOP PRESS! He will be appearing at the Pride event in London taking place in the iconic Trafalgar Square on Saturday, July 6th. He will perform alongside Billy Porter, Becky Hill, Saara Aalto and Heather Peace.

While I am sure quite a few people will be discovering him for the first time, I think morgxn will make the Londoners see he is the star turn that they didn’t expect.

Connect with morgxn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/morgxnofficial/
Twitter: @morgxn
Instagram: http://instagram.com/morgxnofficial

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Emerging Artist: thisisNAMASTE 

We are heading into the second half of this year, which signals festival season is here and there are plenty of summer songs rolling in. As tastemakers and pop aficionados who always have our eyes looking forward, it also means the search for emerging artists to watch, begins to hot up. Actually, I have a great pop singer to bring to your attention today. Among the mid-summer madness, trying to catch a break with her debut release “Exactly What You Want“, is Scottish singer thisisNAMASTE (Natasha Marie Stewart).

I have no hesitation saying this of the song. I am sure it will be on your lips in no time at all. It is particularly catchy, pure pop, with sweet lyrics about not trying to be ultimate relationship goals. thisisNAMASTE wants us to get real because no one is that perfect.

“This song is about me disclosing early on in a relationship that if you want me to be polished, and perfect all the time, that just isn’t going to happen, but if you want someone to hang out and have a lot of fun with, and don’t mind that same someone may potentially steal your food and clothes from time to time, then I’m the perfect girl for you! In the era of ‘#RelationshipGoals’ plastered across social media, I thought it would be fun to write a song with a light-hearted take on the realities of most people in a comfortable relationship.” thisisNAMASTE

This is the singer’s first time out on her own. Prior experience as a backing vocalist for the likes of Rita Ora, Ella Eyre, Bebe Rexha and Martin Garrix, means she is pretty much a made to measure pop star, ready to go slay. With this track co-written and produced by Adam Argyle, (Olly Murs, James Bay, Dua Lipa), and her confident, charismatic vocals as an indication of what she can do. And because the music is fresh, pure and intelligent. I think we would be best to keep a keen eye on her. There are good feelings within the music. Good feelings, in her potential. In fact, all around, good feelings, where pop newcomer thisisNAMASTE is concerned.

Connect with thisisNAMASTE
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisisnamaste
Twitter: @thisisnamaste
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisisnamaste/

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Watch “I & U” by Brian Justin Crum 

America’s Got Talent alumni Brian Justin Crum recently returned to the show participating in The Champions edition. Featured were previous winners and finalist’s from both the American and International branches of the show. Much like his first appearances in the competition during 2016. The singer put in some more of his signature styled powerhouse performances. His spectacular, interpretation of Elton John classic “Your Song” was nothing short of jaw-dropping to the floor, amazing. And has done a superb job in getting everyone speaking about him again. With an opportunity too good, to be passed by. The talent has started to release new material with a view to unleashing a debut EP in the near future. Presumably, it will feature “I & U” the singer’s latest offering.

We know Brian’s vocal suits in with the widescreen and dramatic aesthetics which are best used in musicals, but he is cool with pop offerings as well. “I & U” fits in with the latter. Is a touch, yearning and wistful in its narrative. Ruminates about a failed romance as a way of figuring out how to move forward. Demonstrates that he can switch out his powerhouse chops replacing with a softer singing style. So as to showcase a, emotively vulnerable dynamic. The songs raw captivating emotion and confident lyrics affirm. It is another strong showing from the emerging talent.

“The video for “I & U” is the most, free Iʼve ever felt in my Queer expression. I spent so many years trying to “butch it up” so that people around would feel more comfortable and so that I could fit into anyone’s little box, they wanted to put me in. Being that it is PRIDE month, I wanted to dive deep into my expression, who I want to be in the world and what I want that to look like,” Explains Brian. “I wanted to feature a diverse cast of women who are strong in their own expression as well. Growing up queer I was surrounded by women who supported me. My friends at school were all girls and it was their mothers (and my own) that loved me for who I was. I think itʼs very important that we as gay men rally behind women and fight with them as they have always fought with us.”

Connect with Brian Justin Crum
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrianJustinCrum00/
Twitter: @brianjustincrum
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brianjustincrum

The post Watch “I & U” by Brian Justin Crum appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

Watch “40 Days” by PJ Brennan 

The career of a soap star is varied. And the exits from starring in a serial drama are often pretty spectacular. PJ Brennan spent three years at the fictional village of Hollyoaks in the role of Doug Carter before his fate was sealed in a thrilling plotline featuring a bomb explosion. Following his departure from the UK soap, the multi-talent began pursuing music which met a flurry of releases. The single “Confidence Man” and EP “PJ” were produced by Frankmusik. There had been promises of more to come. We’ve waited for some considerable time for updates. Hailing it as a long time coming, “40 Days” once again produced by Frankmusik is the first taste from the debut album “Late Youth“.

Such is the style of the song, it makes me remember how badly I miss new music from Frankmusik. (Vince is awaiting, a US Green Card permit folks. He has promised a new album on the way when approved.) I can take all I want from the music of “40 Days” to get my Frankmusik fix. There is more to explore on this track, like how PJ Brennan pretty much smashes the vocals. While being a world apart from the wistful, yearning of debut “Confidence Man,” there is an undoubted earnestness present in the lyrics. And a little of Darren Hayes likeness in the vocals.

The track recounts the first “40 Days” of a budding romance. The giddy, dizzying effects of the first flourishes of love. The full fire heat of lust. Physical attraction aside, the song lyrics indicate the coupling may not be the perfect fit. There is a reference to a lack of commitment. However, the physical, chemistry cannot be denied, neither can stay away from one another because the banging’s great.

There is more Frankmusik influence in the music video, it has been edited by collaborator Danny Land. The clip features PJ hanging out on Manhattan Bridge, where he is seen singing and dancing through his emotions. In more ways than the obvious, the track is a bit of a tease. I like the tunefulness which is pouring into my ears, and I want to hear more of it.

Connect with PJ Brennan
Twitter: @peejaybrennan
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peejaybrennan/

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Watch “Push” by Kazaky ft Gaspar 

Big news! Kazaky has re-awoken. The Ukrainian dance-pop troupe who previously made an impression with their art-meets-pop aesthetic for singles “Crazy Law”, “Touch Me”, “What You Gonna Do” and “Your Style” among others. Are back from a long period of quietness with some additional members, more fire in their belly than ever and a new track “Push”. From what I understood, they had parted ways to pursue individual projects. Which was certainly true of Artur Gaspar, who in the interim released a flurry of singles. However, the slim-line Kazaky was beckoned back to the live stage last year, they on embarked on a cabaret cruise stint. It appears as though it has given the guys an appetite to fire up their heels once again. So now they have formally announced, they are reborn and have some new members. Although we don’t know who the new hotties are yet, we haven’t been introduced.

I am over the moon to see them pointing their toes and voguing once more. Because it came to my notice, there are some similar acts from Europe. Who unsuccessfully tried to get a break on UK variety talent shows like Britains Got Talent. The rest just haven’t cut the mustard in the way Kazaky do. Namely because of the meaningful statements which are at the pinnacle of the art-pop outfit’s main objectives.

Following teasers over recent days, “Push” has arrived with a supporting music video which is everything compelling, artful and armed with a story. In the most real sense, which goes deeper on issues concerning having the freedom to live as your true self in the face of conservative societies. The band has put out an enlightening statement which explains detail. It can be found in the description area of their YouTube upload for the video if you fancy a longer read.

If you are happy to allow the music and visuals do the explaining about the track, you will find all that the band want to say equally as understandable. Keywords from the song to take on board are “Dance is my freedom”, “My show’s my story” and “My heels are my weapon”. These powerful statements make for powerful choreography. Kazaky has lost none of their edge when expressing themselves. If anything, they are sharper and more intrepidly, insightful, in their work than they have ever ventured before.

Fingers crossed on hearing and seeing more from Kazaky soon.

Connect with Kazaky
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/KazakyOfficial
Twitter: @KazakyOfficial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kazakyofficial

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Watch “True Love” by Ariana and the Rose 

The latest Ariana and the Rose release “True Love” is a big deal. Wonderfully immense and uplifting. Heart-bursting and incredibly joyous. The clarity in the track’s message shines really, bright. Love is Love. Let’s celebrate this. I cannot comprehend anything more endearing, can you? Ariana and the Rose, obviously think so too. I am feeling the track also reflects the cross the board appeal of Ariana’s music project, in a broader sense. How the factors of music, style and aesthetics used equally embrace a powerful, inclusive sensibility.

Ariana and the Rose has an expanding repertoire of stunning songs but until present nothing they have created has been on the scale of this bright, connectable anthem. For the accompanying music video, the project has brought together six real-life couples from different walks of life who give glimpses into their respective relationships to share what “true love” means to them.

“Love is contagious, and my hope is that the video inspires someone to go tell the people they love how much they care about them.” Ariana DiLorenzo

It is quite something to observe all of the lovely smiling faces which light up this music video. I can only imagine the warm feeling it is evoking in me right now is of a little similarity to the sense of pleasure a singer/performer on stage, soaks up from an enthusiastic crowd of fans. The payback, acknowledging how much loving mood they have helped to create is a reward which a price really can’t be put on. (Save the cost of an admission ticket.) It really must put pop artists on top of the world.

It is important, in general, that we come together in support of one another more. Be the best versions of ourselves. It really does go some way in improving, the wellbeing of everyone. Living in a small town, in the East of England. As an LGBTQ ally, and in support of the diversity of the community I attended my first Pride parade at the weekend. I sincerely hope this event will now be held on an annual basis. (The Pride parade has been staged on only two previous occasions in my town’s history.) I have never felt such warming kindness and friendship from the Suffolk community where I live. (I have lived here, all my life.) At the end of a hot, sunny Saturday afternoon, we were all people having fun. Listening to local bands. Eating, drinking, socialising, and enjoying the glorious weather. We understood. Love has no gender. I will remember this day forever, every time I hear Ariana and the Rose, “True Love“.

Connect with Ariana and the Rose
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arianaandtherose
Twitter: @arianatherose
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arianaandtherose/

The post Watch “True Love” by Ariana and the Rose appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

Listen to “Waking Up” by Fly By Midnight 

The NYC duo Fly By Midnight are running on cracking form at the moment. They really wanted to give us a song for the summer. With the intention that we take advantage of ramping up the volume. To have the track pumping out from our car stereo’s as we relax at the weekend or while taking our holidays. They came up with “Waking Up“, an undeniably, ebullient blast of electronic pop bound by feel-good grooves.

The band who have been working on new material and travelling explain…

“We wrote it during one of our first trips to LA. The song in itself is a moment of bliss and realisation that we were really feeling in many different ways at the time.” – Fly By Midnight

In many ways when you listen to the lyrics of this song, it’s as though we are hearing someone paint their daydreams into life. The ideas which evoke the thoughts of what paradise could be or is (being different for every one of us). By enjoying the simple pleasures in life, like sharing the company of someone dear and cherished. Having money and wealth does make living easier but is nothing compared to the happiness of spending time with someone you really connect with. The guys of Fly By Midnight certainly woke up on this train of thought when they wrote the song.

The euphorically drenched style which is implemented in the track is, quite unlike anything the duo have previously entered into. It is very danceable and catchy. So as it won’t take long to burrow its way into our long-term memory cycle. When Justin and Slavo of the duo finished writing “Waking Up” they knew they had to release it as soon as summer arrived. Because of the song vibes and being a hella hot tune. They couldn’t sit on it until the rest of the sophomore album they are working is ready to go. As independent music artists, they have control over such things. I think they have totally made the right decision. It’s a bop!

Connect with Fly by Midnight
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FlyByMidnightMusic/
Twitter: @flybymidnight
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flybymidnight/

The post Listen to “Waking Up” by Fly By Midnight appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

Listen to “The Way I Loved You” by Reyna 

Congratulations are in order. Just a week ago the Reyna track “Heartbeat” hit the one million streams milestone on Spotify. A clear indication that the duo is now going places fast. (Hey, haven’t we always known they were going places anyways?) Since they released “Heartbeat” there has been a flurry of action around them. They have recently signed with Hard 8 Working Group Management, who also look after Billie Eilish, All Time Low and Rozes. Which is another step in the right direction to get their tracks on the fast-track to radio and on some of the most influential the Spotify playlists. For this first to happen, Vic and Gab need to come up with some new music. But, as you’ve probably guessed because I am writing about them. The ladies have new things in the pipeline and actually, have a new song out today. It is called “The Way I Loved You“, they recorded it at the Legendary Capitol Records Studios.

Reyna’s specialities are breezy indie-pop songs with an additional smattering of synths. True to form, these are the grooves the Banuelos sisters give us on the new song.

Although the track is perfect summer listening. As is always the way with Reyna. There is a lot to be said in their autobiographical lyrics.

Victoriah further explains…

“When I went to Mexico for college, I was just beginning to discover myself and feeling comfortable with my sexuality. I fell in love hard for a girl I met, and it was the most intense, young crazy love you could imagine. I ended up breaking her heart and simultaneously breaking my own for a very long time. “TWILY” is about wanting to love someone new with that same intensity, without caution or fear. But, it’s almost impossible because every new relationship you’re more and more guarded. It’s almost like you’re protecting your heart instead of letting yourself fall in love.”

It is fantastic to see these ladies show off their songwriting credentials. Sharing their slice of life experiences and reassuring their listeners they are not alone in figuring out how the whole life and, living, thing works. Teaming these skills with wonderful musicality Reyna seems to have this formula down to a science. They sure know how to get us craving more of what their band has to offer.

Connect with Reyna
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reynatheband
Twitter: @reynatheband
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reynatheband/

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Listen to “Lottery” by jens 

Lottery” is the third release this year from the mysterious Norwegian singer who is just known as jens. The youngster has kept me captivated with his singles “Any Other Way” and “Before You Let Me Down“. The release of “Lottery” just reaps more interest because it is joyfully upbeat and catchy and exhibits a lively pop vibe.

His label Universal Music Norway seem to be definitely of the feeling this kid is an important talent who is capable of making their mark on the pop sphere. To be fair, I feel likeminded in this respect too. The tracks he has given us are primed to radio-ready perfection. But the greatest attraction for myself is his energised, spellbinding voice. jens has shown many of his vocal facets already, yet it appears he has still got lots more to give. After signing with Made Management who also look after Aurora, Sigrid and Moyka, “Lottery” see’s the singer jumping into the future pop prince hot seat, proper.

This time out, the singer engages with soundwaves steeped in 80s retro style. What he has come up with, feels as though he’s pitting himself as a one-man version of Alphabeat. Meets with lyrical sensibilities in the vein of Sigrid. The track is a sweet song about a boy crushing on someone and trying to get them to take notice of his advances. Melodically it is vibrant, buzzy and uplifting. Ripe for summer listening.

I feel sure jens management are now prepping him for live slots at showcases and festivals. It is the next natural step. The quality of his music releases to date, indicate that he is well equipped to take this on. His story as an emerging artist is still unfolding, his impressive buzz continues to grow. I think we will be hearing much more from him yet, possibly in the future as tour support for Sigrid, feels like a safe bet.

Connect with jens
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jensmusiccc
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jensmusicc/

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