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Cho Gi-Seok Blackpink superstar Jennie has finally released her debut solo album, “Ruby,” on March 7th, 2025. Inspired by Shakespeare’s concept of the seven stages of life, this album allows her to voice her personal life, emotions, and experiences through her own musical vision. Jennie has described the album as a perfect way to reintroduce herself as an artist and showcase who she really is. Jennie displays her versatility and wide range of performance abilities by exploring a wide range of genres such as pop, R&B, and hip-hop. TRACKLIST Intro : Jane with FKJ like JENNIE start a war Handlebars with Dua Lipa with the IE (way up) ExtraL with Doechii Mantra Love Hangover with Dominic Fike ZEN Damn Right with Childish Gambino and Kali Uchis F.T.S Filter Seoul City Starlight twin Jennie was born in Seongnam-si, South Korea, before moving to New Zealand at nine years old. In 2010, she auditioned for YG Entertainment after finding interest in the label. She soon became a trainee in the company, and after six years, she was announced as the first member of the soon-to-be popular Korean girl group Blackpink on June 1st, 2016. Jennie was known for her strong rapping ability, stage presence, and charisma on and off stage. In mid-October 2018, she made her solo debut with the single “Solo," a hip-hop, pop-based track. She was also the first member to have their solo debut under YG Entertainment. In December 2023, Blackpink announced they would go on a hiatus to focus on their solo endeavors. Shortly afterward, Jennie revealed her own record label/management called Odd Atelier to promote her solo work. She then signed a partnership deal with Columbia Records. She was signed as a solo artist under the label, soon releasing her lead single “Mantra” and announcing her debut album “Ruby” in January 2025. Intro : Jane with FKJ The album opens with a beautiful, twinkling intro that opens up Jennie’s story as if it were an actual play. Produced by FKJ, a well-known French multi-instrumentalist, this intro is a great starting place for where this album will take us and the journey of Jennie herself. It’s stripped back, mostly just her vocals and laughter throughout the track. The song feels like this is just the beginning of Jennie and the world she will open us to. It’s refreshing and shows a side to Jennie that we might not be used to. What I also love about the intro is how it ties in with the ending track “twin” and can act like a whole cycle once repeated. like JENNIE The second track and the fourth lead single from the album “Ruby” is “like Jennie”. This hard-hitting, hip-hop track has a metallic beat that perfectly encapsulates Jennie, showcasing her rap skills and unique, fresh style. The song lyrically describes how Jennie is one-of-a-kind and that no one can replace her, let alone be her. Lyrics such as “Who wanna rock with Jennie? Keep your hair done, nails done like Jennie, who else got 'em obsessed like Jennie?” specifically highlight her cultural impact within the fashion industry and how people are inspired by her style. She also sings, “I think I really like, haters, they don’t really like, ‘cause they can never be, JENNIE, JENNIE, JEN-“ which ultimately claps back at her haters, saying the only reason they hate her is because they are jealous of her. Jennie has also said in an interview. However, in an interview with Variety , Jennie talked about the lyrics in “like JENNIE," saying, “I don’t think I’m necessarily saying, like, be like me, or you wanna be me… I want this to be a confidence boost for people and to just have fun, really.” She wants this song to be everyone’s anthem and to replace their name with “Jennie” and be confident in themselves as well. start a war “start a war” is the third track of Jennie’s “Ruby” and is one of her most authentic songs from the album. The song is a powerful, chilling drum-led ballad where Jennie discusses how powerful her love for someone can be, to the point she would go to war for them. The chorus says, “Ever since the day we locked in, I was gonna be down bitch, If I need to start a war, I’m gon’ try for you, I’ll fight for ya, go off for you, I’ll start a war,” we can see how much Jennie cares for this person and that she would do anything to protect them. In an Apple Music exclusive “Ruby” self-talk, Jennie says “start a war” is “…all about loyalty… I was thinking about how far you’d go for someone even when things aren’t perfect…” Handlebars with Dua Lipa “Handlebars” is the fourth track of “Ruby” and was the fifth lead single for the album. The song is a mid-tempo, R&B-inspired track, and the title uses the analogy of love to crashing a bike. Jennie and Dua describe how hard-hitting love can be sometimes and that it can consume your whole life, even if you have been hurt before. With the lyrics “Over the handlebars, hitting the ground so hard, If I’m alone fallin’, fallin’, fallin’, we ain’t gotta talk about it,” we can see that the two are so infatuated with this said person, to the point that even if it is one-sided, they are just going to ignore it. In her self-talk with Apple Music, Jennie explains, “…even when you’ve been hurt, and you’re scared of rejection, you’re still somehow fearless and still going for it. I think it’s that feeling of being invincible because you’re so full of love, and no matter what happens, you can always get back up again.” Dua and Jennie’s voices melt on this track together and with Dua’s discography and similar love songs such as “Handlebars," it makes perfect sense why Jennie asked her to collaborate. with the IE (way up) “with the IE (way up)” is the fifth track of “Ruby," sampling Jennifer Lopez’s notable “Jenny from the Block.” Jennie was inspired by JLO and many popular classic songs from that era, so she wanted to make something similar. The early 2000s-inspired hip-hop track is feisty and shows off more of Jennie’s rapping skills; it also displays who she is as an artist and the meaning of her name, Jennie. In her self-talk, she says, “We were talking about the name Jennie and who I wanted to be in music, and I think it came very natural for me to think of wanting to make a new version of the song.” ExtraL with Doechii The sixth track of “Ruby” is “ExtraL” with Doechii and is the third lead single for the album. This song highlights Jennie’s pop style of music while incorporating Doechii’s signature sleek hip-hop style. The beat is hip-hop-infused with a pop chorus, which suits both artists well. The song is about Jennie and Doechii flaunting their wealth and celebrating their success as women. Jennie specifically says in a lyric, “You sit too far down on 'em charts to even ask me who’s in charge,” which references her own record-breaking chart history with Blackpink and as a soloist. Doechii, in her rap, discusses how she doesn’t make her decisions based on male opinions, saying, “I'm not here for pleasin' the men, not here to reason with them.” With Doechii’s rising success, especially after her Grammy win, and Jennie being her own boss, it makes so much sense why these two are on this track together, and they do nothing but devour. Mantra The seventh track of “Ruby” and the first lead single is “Mantra,” a dance-pop track with some R&B elements and a Miami bass beat. This song is a female empowerment anthem and is supposed to be fun, carefree, and a love letter to one’s self. In an interview with Vogue , Jennie describes the song as a “fun, upbeat anthem that celebrates girl power and inspires every woman to shine in her own way with confidence." Jennie claims this song was the perfect one to open up her new era, and I definitely agree. It was a great way to showcase how this new era of herself. which was all about self-discovery and self-love. I feel like a song like “Mantra” was needed to showcase that openness of self-love, specifically a woman’s love for herself. Love Hangover with Dominic Fike “Love Hangover” is the eighth track of “Ruby” and is the second lead single. The song is a mid-tempo, pop song inspired by Diana Ross’ 1976 song of the same name. It also has some elements of retro soul added to it as well. The song describes a toxic relationship, where Jennie sings about constantly going back to her lover and cannot resist them. The lyrics, “We say it’s over, but I keep fucking with you, and every time I do, I wake up with this love hangover,” claiming that she is struggling to fight her attraction. Dominic Fike seems to act like the toxic lover in the situation, saying, “One minute, we’re growing apart, and next I’m in her apartment, just watching her get naked and not thinking with my heart.” This indicates that the partner in this relationship could not reciprocate the same feelings and could view their relationship as more surface-level. I like Jennie’s and Dominic’s chemistry in this song, and I like how they showcase two sides of the relationship. I also enjoy how this song continues “Handlebars” and that concept of one-sided love. ZEN “ZEN” is the ninth track of “Ruby” and is an introspective track about Jennie and her road to enlightenment. Here is where we get to see Jennie feel her truest form, and with the over-the-top, intense production, you can feel that this song is building up to something. She starts with a point of reflection and acceptance and then becomes truly zen. She is content with who she is and knows who she is as a person at heart. Jennie has also stated that this song was the foundation for the album and this realization of self. In her self-talk, Jennie says, "Once I finished the song (ZEN), it really helped me pull together the rest of the album. This song is a reminder to embrace your individuality and own your shine.” This song, to me, is absolutely breathtaking, and the whole aura of the track is something you never really hear in today’s music, so that uniqueness really stands out. It’s intense, it’s in your face, but it’s elegant. Damn Right with Childish Gambino and Kali Uchis “Damn Right” is the tenth track of “Ruby” and is a smooth R&B track with a compelling baseline. It reminds me of a Chloe and Halle track, but it fits with Jennie incredibly well. Her soft and delicate voice matches Kali Uchis’ whisper-like vocals. Jennie once again speaks on her confidence and how she is proud of who she is in a more sexy manner. Jennie explains in her self-talk that “Damn Right” is about “…also standing your ground and knowing your worth… I was in a place where I just wanted to remind myself and everyone else not to settle for anything less than what they deserve.” Childish Gambino, similar to Dominic Fike, seems to give another perspective on viewing Jennie and how he is enamored by who she is as a woman. His vocals are full of soul and blend together with Uchis’ and Jennie’s pretty easily. F.T.S The eleventh track of “Ruby” is “F.T.S,” a soulful ballad with a chant-like chorus throughout. This song is about letting everything go and finally cutting off the toxins in your life, specifically people. With lyrics such as “Whatever happened to freedom and honestly? What matters to you, you, you, it’s not that deep to me, fuck that shit,” seems to be where Jennie is realizing that her values and other people’s values aren’t aligned. Instead, their values are the ones bringing her down. In her self-talk, she says, “I was really feeling a need to cut ties with things that were holding me back, and it’s a total anthem for freedom for me. I think it’s also about moving forward without looking back, and I just really wanted to release all the negativity and focus on what’s next.” Filter The twelfth track of “Ruby” is “Filter,” a trap, R&B track, and is about being real and having no filter with yourself. Jennie highlights that there will always be this standard of perfectionism within the music industry, but it is always better to be authentic. Specifically, in her self-talk, she says, “I wanted to remind people that it’s okay not to be perfect…and I love the drop that we have in the hook of the song. It just makes me feel free, and I think it goes perfectly with the words when I’m saying ‘No Filter.’” Seoul City “Seoul City” is the thirteenth song of “Ruby” and is a soulful-midtempo R&B track that is sexy and alluring. On the one hand, this song describes the more physical aspect of love and wanting to be so close to a person, to the point where you can feel their soul. It also describes the city of Seoul, how alive it can feel, and how culturally impactful it is. When you hear “Seoul City," you can picture the nightlife of Seoul and be with your lover within its streets, being close to one another and falling in such a deep trance with each other, but also with the city itself. Starlight “Starlight” is the fourteenth song of “Ruby” and is an alternative pop track, and it seems to be an homage to Jennie’s fans. The song explains how, throughout her whole career, the ups and the downs, her fans have always seen the starlight within her and have always stuck by her. The song is sweet and sincere; you can see how much she cares for her fans. Jennie also describes the song as sharing a different version of herself with her listeners in a new light without all the glitz and glamour. twin “twin” is the fifteenth and final song of “Ruby," an acoustic pop-ballad. Like the intro, it's stripped-back, with only Jennie’s vocals, a guitar, and a piano. In the song, Jennie describes how she is drifting apart from someone she loves and talks about their strong bond. The track is bittersweet, and you can tell Jennie feels her emotions throughout the song. In her self-talk, Jennie herself describes “twin” as a song about “…a deep, unbreakable bond with someone who just gets you, you know? And with that kind of connection where nothing can pull you apart, no matter how far away you are… I was actually thinking about a friend in my life who I felt that with, and I kind of wanted to capture that feeling of soul, deep connection…” The song is heartfelt and bittersweet, and it’s a perfect way to close out the album as the guitar and piano fade away, only leaving Jennie’s raw vocals, which connect back to the intro of the album. “Ruby” by Jennie is such a well-crafted and well-rounded album. The amount of layers and depth within each song is so well done, and the production of the whole album flows beautifully. You can clearly tell how much this album means to her and how each song has its own special meaning to Jennie. I love how she wanted to completely strip herself away from the Jennie we think we know and showcase this whole new side to her. It’s been great seeing all the members go independently and create their own solo works, each having a distinct sound and overall identity. Of the four, I would say Jennie’s album is my favorite because it all comes together effortlessly. My favorite songs currently are “like JENNIE”, “ZEN”, and “Damn Right”. I am so proud of Jennie for having the courage to make the album she wanted to make and not let anyone stop her from doing so. Written By Laylah Little Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

Rejection is never fun, but at least Matthew Orgel’s “Backwards” knows how to turn the feeling into a dance-worthy song. Orgel’s confidence does not only shine in his vocals and music, but also in confessing his feelings. He overlooks this person’s flaws and sees a bright future together. However, they shut him down. Orgel expresses this pain of welcoming imperfections for someone who will not do the same. The irony is not lost in this catchy rhythm as he dives into the bitterness of rejection. It feels like his efforts have gone to waste. He sings, “I keep trying, and I keep regretting.” It’s hard to keep putting yourself out there when love feels like a setback. “Backwards” features synthesizer leads and arpeggiated chords that echo early 2000s pop icons like Katy Perry and Lady Gaga . His voice is unforgettable and mesmerizing. He shows an impressive range of vocals in the chorus. The second verse stands out as he fills the track with subtle effects, pauses, and reverberations. He immerses listeners in the experience. The melody offers the perfect songs for unwinding after a long day. The beat, combined with the lead synthesizer, creates a tune that recaptures that confidence. Because Orgel knows what it’s like to get shot down, but he knows how to own that confidence again. As awful as rejection is, Orgel makes something good out of it. Beyond his latest track, Orgel has released multiple singles and EPs with catchy, unforgettable music. He released his first single “ Hardest Goodbye ,” as a collaboration with Lauren Clark in 2020. His impressive vocals are evident from early on. Originally from Long Island, New York, he is studying at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. A pianist since the age of four, Orgel has cultivated a significant social media following, attracting the attention of industry figures like Tyler Johnson and Meghan Trainor . He continues to show that he can capture emotion in a range of music in each new release. Written By Taylor Sheridan Lempke FOLLOW MATTHEW ORGEL: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook | YouTube

Some artist use technology as a clutch meaning that in this day and age, it can be common where artists don't actually know how to play instruments themselves but know how to produce great music. Tonia has twisted this concept by making technology and music work side by side in a beautiul way. In Tonia's new single "Cut The Cloth, Didn't I," she talks about the insecurities that follow the questions surrounding if there is anything worth salvaging in a relationship. Tonia shows off her lyrical intelligence with lines like, "I don't know what we can save" and my personal favorite at the top of the song, "The maps ripped at the sides." It shows off her descriptiveness in the lyrics that are also so beautifully relatable. Tonia has really outdone the ideas that we have behind using technology in music in this song. The textures in this song can be heard right in the beginning with the strum of the guitar. It's almost like someone is playing an acoustic guitar right next to you an things start off pretty relaxing and slow. Jumping into the chorus is when we get this growling sound that sounds like a trombone but it adds such a fluffy cool sound to what starts out as a simple song. The rhythm of Tonia's voice and the vocal track altogether feel very much like a beachy, flowy vibe all coming together in an incredibly unique way. Tonia is an alt-pop artist who loves to write about self-worth, friendship, and most importantly - what its like navigating life in your twenties. She has a talent for combining what she describes as "fuzzy" guitars, complex harmonies all working together to make her sound increibly unique. Once she moved to Liverpool, she has hit the ground running bein labeled as one of LIMF Academy's "Most Ready" artists and is also apart of independent label 3Beat's roster. Tonia's latest single which just came out on March 19th, 2025 sounds like exactly what she needs to keep this momentum going and listeners definitely don't want to miss out. Written By Breanna M. FOLLOW TONIA: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube | Twitter

“Just Pretend” is the latest single from Cece Benz, released on March 14, 2025. The acoustic track recounts her experience falling in love with her best friend, having to watch them be in love with someone else, and wishing that they would realize how great they could be together. It captures the tension of wanting to be with someone, but knowing that you'll have to walk away from it. If you have ever been in a similar position, this track will resonate with you deeply. For those looking to add a new artist into their rotation, Cece Benz has certainly cemented herself as one to watch with this release. On “Just Pretend,” Benz wrestles with feelings of longing and resentment, simultaneously wishing her best friend happiness and heartbreak. She sings about fantasizing about them being together, feeling like she always comes second to this other girl, and wondering if they ever wish that they were dating her instead. This experience is emphasized with lyrics like “I know I’m not making it up / We could never be just friends / But if you can’t ignore it, I’ll fake it / Together, we’ll just pretend" and “I hope she’s everything you want / Hope she breaks your heart like you broke mine.” Driven by acoustic guitar and gentle vocals, "Just Pretend" is a vulnerable narrative about wanting to be with someone that you cannot. Cece Benz is an emerging singer-songwriter from Atlanta, Georgia. Her music blends acoustic, indie pop, and soul influences together. Her musical journey began at 12 years old, in which she began writing and performing original music. Her debut single, “Growing Pains,” released in 2023. Over the last two years, she has put out a few more singles, her first EP, and gained over 1,000 monthly listeners on Spotify. If you enjoyed "Just Friends," make sure to check out the rest of her discography. You can also keep up with all the latest information on Cece Benz and her music by following the social media links below. Written By Sydney Gray FOLLOW CECE BENZ: Instagram | Spotify

In the heat of the moment, we find ourselves too enwrapped to stop. Although the correct answer is clear and the disastrous outcome is nearly inexorable, we seem to speed through the flashing lights that yearn for our attention. The burning red lights scintillate for our regard in an attempt to rescue us from the bedlam that awaits ahead of us. However, they render futile as we dismiss the obvious predicaments that will undeniably seize our hearts due to the recklessness of our negligent actions. “Colorblind” by Gillian Krystal is a song that resembles the true meaning of standing oblivious to the unmistakable red flags that billow in the winds for our attention. Yet, we choose to stand oblivious, diving head-in on something that is doomed and has been registered as utter destruction, focusing on the pure exhilaration we feel. The song carries imposing lyrics like “running through traffic lights” and “flashing red, looks like I’m colorblind” which truly capture the essence of being unwilling to differentiate between doing what’s right and wrong. Click here to listen to "Colorblind"! The song opens up resembling something that sounds almost cryptic and enigmatic with the low-pitched bass guitar strings that set the stage for the song's underlying tone and its message. As Gillian’s voice settles in, it acts as an additional instrument, complimenting the bass guitar and blending into a cadence rhythm that mimics something both alternative and pop, two genres that undeniably pair well, especially with the use of Gillian’s innately talented voice that truly pulls the mixtures of sound together in a steady dance. As the song builds up to its chorus, the instruments pause as Gillian sings the lyrics of a catchy chorus, almost as if creating a pathway for listeners to truly listen to the lyrics, giving it the spotlight it needs to get the message and point across to listeners. I take it as a method musicians use to add more emphasis and make the song that much more meaningful and memorable. With lyrics that mesh well with the mix of sounds, it’s not only easy for listeners to enjoy a song like “Colorblind” but with the meaningful lyrics and imposing emotions this song instills in listeners, we can relate to the lyrics. The lyrics don’t even have to resemble a certain love, they could be just about any scenario that perhaps, in hindsight, isn’t a very wise decision. Gillian Krystal, the talented musician behind such an imposing song and lyrics, is a singer who is originally from New York. Gillian actually had an early start in music, listening to influential artists like Nat King Cole and Etta James, who were inspiring to a young Gillian, as her inspiration evolved into something for a love for musical theatre. After college, Gillian finally discovered her fevered passion for singing and songwriting once she picked up a guitar. Before leaving her full-time job, Gillian would play at local spots in New York, until she left her job in pursuit of her music career, leaving for Nashville. It’s clear her passion for music is most vehement, stopping at nothing to seek her desire to be a musician. Gillian also has great plans for the year 2025, releasing 3 whole singles and will even be playing shows in LA, New York, and Nashville! As Gillian continues to create music, I can’t help but look forward to her future projects! Written By Rosalyn Sanchez FOLLOW GILLIAN KRYSTAL: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Despite primarily being remembered for having a single hit, one hit wonders can have such an outstanding impact in the music industry, tasting commercial success once in their careers and leaving their marks on fanbases across the globe. The '80s was a memorable decade for the plethora of one hit wonders bursting onto the music scene, capturing the hearts of listeners then and now. Recapping some of the highlights the decade produced, here are our favorites for Pop One Hit Wonders of the '80s. 1. "Come On Eileen" - Dexys Midnight Runners A one hit wonder in the US, Dexys Midnight Runners' "Come On Eileen" is a classic '80s hit for the ages. The track was released in the UK in 1982 and 1983 in the US, reaching number one on the charts in both countries. It's a memorable mix of genres, blending elements of new wave, Celtic folk, pop, and pop-rock to create the unforgettable track we know and love today. 2. "Your Love" - The Outfield Best remembered for this hit single, The Outfield's "Your Love" was a huge commercial success for the English band. The track was released in 1986 and is from their debut studio album, Play Deep . "Your Love" is an addictive mix of pop rock, new wave, and power pop, making it no wonder how the track reached number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number seven on the Album Rock Tracks chart upon its release. 3. "Tainted Love" - Soft Cell Despite their success in the UK, Soft Cell is best known for their version of "Tainted Love" in the US, making them a one hit wonder here. The track was originally recorded by Gloria Jones in 1964, later being catapulted into worldwide fame after being covered and reimagined by Soft Cell in 1981. Breathing new life into the original soul/pop single, Soft Cell's "Tainted Love" is a fun mix of synth-pop and new wave that created the iconic sound pop enthusiasts still love in 2025. 4. "I Melt With You" - Modern English Their most successful single, Modern English's "I Melt With You" is next on our list of one hit wonders. The track was released as the second single from their 1982 album, After the Snow , becoming a huge hit in the US. "I Melt With You" reached number seven on the Billboard's Mainstream rock chart in 1983 and later charted in 1990 on the Billboard Hot 100 at number 76. Adding to its success, the new wave track was featured in the film Valley Girl and on MTV. 5. "Somebody's Watching Me" - Rockwell Released in 1983, "Somebody's Watching Me" is a song written and recorded by American singer Rockwell. The track is an addictive blend of synth-funk, new wave, synth-pop, and R&B, featuring guest vocals by Michael Jackson, Randy Jackson, and Jermaine Jackson. "Somebody's Watching Me" was a huge commercial success for Rockwell, topping charts internationally and reaching the top 5 in countries like Canada, West Germany, and the US. 6. "Funkytown" - Lipps, Inc. Quickly becoming the group's signature song, "Funkytown" by Lipps, Inc. was a huge commercial success for the disco-funk band, topping charts in several countries. The track was released in 1980, featuring an eclectic mix of genres like Minneapolis sound, disco, funk, synth-pop, and dance-pop. Leaving a lasting legacy, "Funkytown" has since been featured in films like Shrek 2 and Alvin and the Chipmunks , as well as shows like Malcolm in the Middle . 7. "(I Just) Died in Your Arms" - Cutting Crew Serving as the group's debut single, "(I Just) Died in Your Arms" by Cutting Crew was released in 1986 ahead of their debut album, Broadcast . The track is their biggest hit, peaking at number one in several countries including the US, Canada, Norway, and Finland. It also reached the top 5 internationally, charting in countries like Germany, Ireland, and the UK. Though Cutting Crew is a one hit wonder in the US, they had one more hit in the UK called "I've Been in Love Before." 8. "Break My Stride" - Matthew Wilder Released as the lead single from his debut album, I Don't Speak the Language , "Break My Stride" became a major worldwide hit for Matthew Wilder upon its release. The track reached number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and number two on the Cash Box Top 100, becoming a huge commercial success for Wilder. Capturing the attention of many artists, "Break My Stride" has been covered by the likes of Unique II and Blue Lagoon and has been interpolated into tracks like Puff Daddy's "Can't Nobody Hold Me Down" and Aaron Carter's "Stride (Jump on the Fizzy)." 9. "Catch Me (I'm Falling)" - Pretty Poison Featured on the group's debut album, "Catch Me (I'm Falling)" by Pretty Poison is a freestyle/dance-pop hit from 1987. The track features a sample of the bass from René & Angela's "I'll Be Good," a popular hit from 1985. "Catch Me (I'm Falling)" was featured in the film Hiding Out and has been Pretty Poison's biggest hit single to date. It peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play and charted in the top ten of the Billboard Hot 100. 10. "I Want Candy" - Bow Wow Wow Though Bow Wow Wow have had other hits outside of the US, the group is typically considered a one hit wonder with their quintessential '80s track "I Want Candy." The track was originally written and recorded by the Strangeloves in 1965, later reimagined by Bow Wow Wow in 1982 into a mix of new wave and bubblegum pop. "I Want Candy" was a commercial success for Bow Wow Wow and was a top 10 hit in the UK, later becoming a new wave classic. Do you have any favorite '80s one hit wonders? Did you hear any you liked in this list? Let us know on our socials! Written By Cheyenne Johnson Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.

Heartbreaking and sorrowful is how Rob Eberle delivers his newest single “from a distance”. A pensive and melodic piece, this track is a sure fire way to bring out the tears. “from a distance” is a pop ballad that is equal parts impressive as it is heart-wrenching. The concept of having to love somebody from a distance is at the heart of Eberle’s latest track, dissecting the moments and feelings in a relationship that was doomed from the beginning. The unhealthy dynamics presented in the relationship from Eberle’s perspective has led him to place himself away from his lover despite the heartache it inevitably has brought. “from a distance” explores the concept of loving someone who isn’t emotionally available to you. Eberle’s object of affection is just out-of-reach, leaving him high and dry to fend for himself and pick up the pieces of a relationship he is desperately missing. Whether you have shared the same experiences that Eberle presents, or a strong ballad tugs at your heart, “from a distance” is surely a powerful track that keeps you coming back for another listen.  "from a distance" starts as a soft piano ballad, emotionally drawing you in with Rob's gentle and raw voice. As we approach the first chorus, we hear a little bit of synth creep in, with some blues notes to give the song some classic tones. We keep on building up with more dynamics in the second verse, adding in drums and acoustic guitar as Rob keeps singing with heartbreak behind every breath. After the bridge, we come back down to just vocals and piano, but there's layers of gorgeous harmonies that are just so beautiful beyond belief, it's enough to make your heart stop for a moment. Rob Eberle is a rising pop-rock sensation who is surely creating a name for himself. Originally from New York, Eberle is now based in Los Angeles. His debut EP “COLLATERAL DAMAGE” has garnered over 300,000 streams across platforms. Eberle continues to stun audiences with his versatile, engrossing music. His last single “goodbye (to someone you love” broke into the Top 40 radio to rival with other great hits of the last year. Drawing inspiration from FINNEAS , Billie Eilish , Jeremy Zucker , and Alexander 23 , Eberle continues to create introspective feats that demonstrate his unique brand of storytelling. His genre-bending defiance makes him an artist worth following to keep up with. Follow Rob Eberle through the links below to be in the know of any upcoming music and news! Written By Navi Madrid & Kaitlyn Nicole FOLLOW ROB EBERLE: Instagram   | Spotify  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

"Back from the Dead," the debut single by the alt-pop ensemble a little place called Aspen, artfully melds infectious pop melodies with thematic elements inspired by Stephen King's short story Home Delivery. The song captures the chilling narrative of a young woman amidst a zombie apocalypse, where her departed husband returns from the sea in a hauntingly vivid depiction of resurrection. The lyrics are strikingly visual, illustrating scenes of reanimation with lines like "My love was dead in the sea, but it came crawling back to me." The track's storytelling is compelling and imaginative, serving as a fresh interpretation of a classic horror theme through the lens of pop music. Musically, "Back from the Dead" showcases a little place called Aspen's ability to blend traditional pop structures with alternative sensibilities. The infectious chorus, "Reanimated, we’re coming back again," captures the essence of the song's eerie yet catchy nature. This haunting hook is expertly paired with vibrant instrumental layers, featuring tight-knit instrumentation by the band members, who all contribute vocally and instrumentally. The production, polished by Dan Brodbeck and mastered by Montano Mastering, accentuates the track's dynamic energy, creating an immersive listening experience that is both innovative and accessible. Fans of artists like LANY, the Band CAMINO, and Bad Suns will find much to appreciate in this exhilarating debut. Hailing from Toronto, ON, a little place called Aspen has emerged as a creative force in the alt-pop genre since its founding in 2022 by five friends sharing a mutual vision. Comprising Nick Babcock, Hunter Sheridan, Jordan Moore, Nolan Hubbard, and Ty Callan, the band is dedicated to crafting music that blends pop idioms with alternative edges. Their debut release, "Back from the Dead," is a testament to their artistic cohesion and knack for storytelling, setting the stage for a series of new releases throughout 2025 and into 2026. As their music unfolds, a little place called Aspen is poised to make significant waves in the music industry, inviting listeners into their unique narrative world with each song. Written By Megan Cao FOLLOW A LITTLE PLACE CALLED ASPEN: Instagram   | Spotify  | Squarespace | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator

Rosie Darling has struck again with another heartfelt rack centered around vulnerable lyrics and real life experiences. “Smoke & Mirrors”, released on March 14th, details the feeling of working so hard to be loved and appreciated, and the one person you want this from purposely tries not to see it. The honesty and acceptance behind Darling’s lyrics show the sad truth that this is a common event, and that the lack of attention only makes her try even harder to win approval. When asked about the song, Darling explained her own experiences with this feeling, and that “‘Smoke & Mirrors’ is the song for me that helped me process this experience in my own way and showed me that seeking someone’s approval is only ever going to keep you feeling small”. The soundscape of this track is simplistic and highlights Darling’s clear tonality and emotional voice, with drum beats accentuating the flowing melodies. Throughout the choruses and verses, Darling references different circus and show elements, like a packed audience watching her downfall and the feeling of being a puppet on a string in a play. In the chorus, she sings, “It's a standin' ovation and you're in your seat”. The rise and fall of the beats throughout this song mimic the sound of Darling swaying back and forth on the tightrope she feels like she is walking on and references in the second verse. This track follows a basic verse-chorus setup, with the chorus being sung again to close out the song. Darling ends this track with the lines, “All that you see / Is the smoke and the mirrors in me”. 29 year old Rosie Darling is a Boston born singer songwriter now based in Los Angeles. With over 1 million monthly listeners on Spotify and a slew of EPs, singles, and one album (released in 2023 and titled Lanterns), Darling has been creating professional music since the release of her first single in 2017. Drawing inspiration from her own personal artists, such as classics like Taylor Swift, Lizzie McAlpine, and Gracie Abrams, Darling’s music is vulnerable and heartfelt, reflecting on her own life experiences, especially the ones that have hurt her. Make sure to follow the social medias below to stay tuned for more emotional music from Rosie Darling. Written By Tessa Maddaloni FOLLOW ROSIE DARLING: Instagram | Spotify  | TikTok  | Facebook  | YouTube

Being stuck in a toxic relationship is never pretty, yet it’s always hard to leave. colby! and Shaya Zamora’s new collaboration, “Monster”, touches on this topic in a bopping beat that you can’t help but bob your head to. colby! shares more behind the track on Instagram, stating about how the song describes people who “don’t bring out the best in each other, and they know it, but for some reason, they can’t let go — or even try to become better for one another”. “Monster” dives into this idea, with lyrics like “Oh, you’re a monster in disguise / Got the devil in your eyes / I know that you’re no good for me / But you’ve been on my mind” floating within the chorus. Everyone has had a lover who, you know is not the best for you, but you can’t help but find yourself entangled with this person. What do you do when you get into a situation like that? Well, the best piece of advice is to put on “Monster” by colby! and Shaya Zamora and jam it out! According to colby!, Shaya sent her an audio file with a verse and chorus idea, asking her what she thought about it. She loved it, and went to her producer and brother RJ to start playing around with the idea. She notes how it’s different than what she has done before, lyrically and sonically, but how “it was so fun to explore and bring it to life”. Shaya’s touch to the song brings an edge to it like none other, grounding listeners with his vocals from floating into the sky with colby!’s. colby!’s angelic voice blend perfectly with Shaya Zamora‘s devilish baritone to have you melting with every line. The dark atmosphere, created by the sparse bass line, is uplifted with the groovy rhythm in the most perfect way. The emotional depth mixed with the mysteriously bopping instrumental makes this song not only an emotional message to toxic relationships but a smash hit through the dark events that take place within the toxicity. colby! is a singer/songwriter who grew up in Fort Worth, Texas, surrounded by live music. With being diagnosed with dyslexia at age 8, she used creative arts, like singing and writing, as a way to cope with this. She often collaborates with her brother and producer, RJ Johnson, a Berklee College of Music grad, to create her dreamy pop songs. She has been making waves with her new collaboration with Shaya Zamora, a rising singer/songwriter from a rural town in Washington. He has quickly gained attention with his emotionally vibrant melodies and spiritual story-telling. Since his summer 2023 debut, the gifted young artist has gained quite the following, stepping higher into the industry with his release of “Pretty Little Devil”, ranking on Apple Music charts and Shazam’s U.S. and Global charts. If you loved listening to “Monster” by colby! and Shaya Zamora, be sure to follow them with the links below! Written By Nevaeh Scott FOLLOW colby!: Instagram | Spotify FOLLOW Shaya Zamora: Instagram   | Spotify

Coming up on a decade since their breakthrough single, "Atlantis," Seafret are back and better than ever with the release of "River of Tears." The track shows the Yorkshire duo embracing a creative new chapter, pushing sonic boundaries while continuing to incorporate compelling narratives into their lyrics. Sharing the inspiration behind the single, the band explains, "'River of Tears’ explores the heartbreak of being in a relationship you always knew was doomed, yet still struggling to accept its inevitable end. We originally wrote this on piano but found the darker production worked so well we had no choice but to go for it. This song was a turning point for the album and even a little for us as writers. It isn’t a style of song we’ve done in the past, but it feels like we’ve opened a door to somewhere new and exciting." Departing from their acoustic roots and venturing into new waters with "River of Tears," Seafret have expanded their sound into a rich, explosive combination of pop rock and indie pop. The track establishes the pair's exciting new era with an immersive, addictive soundscape, blending spirited melodies with impassioned vocals and rousing instrumentals. Seafret prove their songwriting skills to be dazzling, taking a poignant narrative and weaving an essence of hope into it through the shimmering keys, upbeat percussion, and electrifying guitars. Perfect for any pop enthusiast's ears, "River of Tears" would be a thrilling new discovery for fans of Ben Barnes and Train . A decade into their career, Seafret are a duo comprised of two best friends and musical co-conspirators, Jack Sedman and Harry Draper. Neither musician could have predicted the success they have seen, riding the wave of their hit single, "Atlantis," as it reemerged into the limelight through a viral TikTok moment that has gifted the pair over a billion streams and 10 million monthly Spotify listeners. Over the years, Seafret have built an impressive catalog, having released three studio albums as well as several EPs and singles. A reinvigorated band, amazing things can be expected from Seafret, but until then some songs to enjoy include "Oceans," "Fall," "Wildfire," and "Give Me Something." Written By Cheyenne Johnson FOLLOW SEAFRET: Instagram | Spotify  | X  | Facebook  | YouTube

Choose self-love over heartbreak and enjoy Ainsley Costello's motivating anthem "Exless". This uplifting track understands that rushing into relationships can lead to unnecessary hurt, especially when you can fe el fulfilled while staying single. The speaker of this song is fueled by self-esteem, sounding like a logical friend pointing out the emotional labor that you just can't seem to notice yourself. Rejecting the stigma of being alone, this song asks bold rhetorical questions like "am I wrong in thinking heartbreak doesn’t sound too fun?" Whether you need some affirmation that staying single is the right choice for you, or some inspiration to take a break from looking for love to focus on yourself, "Exless" is here to lift you up. Bright electric guitar and energizing drums open the track with a catchy pattern before Ainsley's vocals expressively join in the mix. Her voice playfully works through the verse, with an alternating stress pattern artfully emphasizing the lyrics. Get swept up in the liberating sound of Ainsley's smooth singing highly projecting through the chorus as the guitar and percussion compliment the excitement in the vocals. As Ainsley spells out the title of the song to punctuate the chorus, a vocal layer of a cheer joins in, offering a vibrant and freeing feeling. With silky high singing through the bridge and an overall exciting charisma, this song will unlock feelings of self-love and empowerment with its sound. Ainsley Costello is a pop-rock musician based in Nashville. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, Ainsley has thrived in the environment of music technology and has released over twenty singles. She has performed across the United States, with over 200 shows offering audiences uplifting messages and a bold, invigorating sound. Having partnered with industry technology brands including Fountain.FM , Wavlake , and TrueFans.FM , Ainsley has truly thrived in the digital era of music. Keep an eye out for her upcoming performances across the US and in the UK. Check out the links below to listen to her debut album Exless and keep up with her music. Written By Hanna Kowal FOLLOW AINSLEY: Instagram   | Spotify  | Facebook  | YouTube   *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator