NYS Music 2024

Tag: New Single Release

  • Long Island’s Roger Street Friedman Releases Powerful New Single “Banks of the Brazos”

    Long Island native Roger Street Friedman has released his newest americana single, “Banks of the Brazos.” The track is a powerful ode to the “Sugarland 95,” a group of Black convict laborers sentenced to brutal work in Texas sugarcane fields in the post-reconstruction era.

    Roger Street Friedman

    “Banks of the Brazos” is the third single from his upcoming album Long Shadows, due out January 24, the song is a powerful and evocative story that looks into the hidden history of the “Sugarland 95,” a group of African American men who were often victims of unjust laws designed to control the lives of newly freed people.

    When the bodies of the Sugarland 95 were unearthed along the banks of the Brazos River, Roger Street Freidman was inspired to write a song from the perspective of one of these laborers. The song aligns with a viral TikTok that Roger posted last year, garnering nearly a million views, resonating with audiences for his honest storytelling.

    Roger Street Friedman

    The song holds a strong outlaw americana feel. The western country flare paired with the dark nature of the song’s backstory sets the listener up to feel it in their heart. Each strum of the guitar shows Roger Street Friedman’s passion and grit for music and exposing history’s many injustices. The track is dynamic, with many changing musical tides throughout the track, but with a meaningfully brawn backbone allowing for wide arrays of sound.

    Even the opening sounds from the electric and acoustic guitars simultaneously made me feel something. Followed by the consistent, strong kick and snare, this track immerses the listener from the very start. Both Friedman’s hearty solo vocals and the powerful harmonizing vocals truly touch the heart and soul of whomever may be listening, especially when you factor in how Roger is soulfully expressing his outlook on the horrible enslavement of the Sugarland 95. The track sees a phenomenal climax with soaring vocals followed by a spirit-touching finish that brilliantly yet softly wraps up the hearty ode.

    For more information on Roger Street Friedman and his latest single, “Banks of the Brazos,” click here.

  • NYC-Based Pop Artist Ren Genevieve Reveals a Heartfelt Reflection on Growing Up in “forts”

    NYC-based singer-songwriter Ren Genevieve has released her latest single “forts,” an extremely intimate track that illustrates the cycle of growing up and outgrowing relationships. “forts” delves into themes of nostalgia, sadness, and the heartfelt yet inevitable nature of change and growing up. 

    Ren Genevieve

    “forts” is the feeling one gets when they are deep in reminiscing about being a child and how it is to navigate life as a full-time adult. The track draws listeners in, tugging at their heartstrings and allowing them to connect with their deepest emotions. Ren Genevieve’s approach to songwriting and storytelling is what makes her stand out amongst many, “forts” is a prime example of her mastery. With its expressive and deep-seated lyrics, the track hits home for many listeners, while presenting a relatable angle on the struggles of adulthood and how it re-molds past connections people had. With the blend of soul-touching melodies and soft vocals, Genevieve captures all the elements perfectly.

    Born in Boston and raised in New York, Michigan, and Bermuda, Genevieve has always been one for the arts. Genevieve started singing, acting, and dancing at a young age, her college years at NYU were what pushed her to pursue writing and sharing her music. She made a name for herself back when her single “I Like You (I Think)” dropped in February 2022 which was then followed by her second single “tongue-tied” in November 2022. Her first few projects were created to share with her friends and family, however, she took the idea and ran with it to perfect her producing skills. Genevieve’s singles helped pave her way as an ardent introduction to her story.

    Ren Genevieve

    For more information on Ren Genevieve’s music including her latest single “forts” click here.

  • Afrobeat Artist AMAYO Releases New Single “Madam President”

    Afrobeat artist AMAYO released his new single, “Madam President,” on August 22, garnering attention across streaming services.

    Madam President

    The track “Madam President” begins with an explosion of percussion, brass, keys, and vocals. Right off the bat the song hooks the listener and once you read into the lyrics, you see the subject matter is deep upon the funky, groovy, upbeat instrumentals.

    AMAYO is urging the listener to fight – for freedom, for peace, and for justice. With the upcoming presidential election this November 5, the political nature of the track speaks volumes. The artist is speaking through his heart about moving forward and never back.

    Madam President

    AMAYO believes that all people of color, and other marginalized groups win if Kamala wins, clear that he is for Kamala Harris’ victory in the presidency. It is also clear that he draws much inspiration from Bob Marley and the Wailers, Steel Pulse, and other reggae/afrobeat artists.

    Once a part of Antibalas, a massively influential Afrobeat band, AMAYO is no stranger to the sounds he is currently releasing unto the world. He is credited for bringing Afrobeat to a global audience, leading it to become a genre of itself.

    Antibalas Live

    To hear AMAYO’s new single “Madam President,” click here and choose your preferred service.

  • NYC-Based Artist Morley Releases Captivating Single “Follow The Sound”

    Singer-songwriter, Morley, from New York City, released her new song “Follow The Sound” on Friday, July 26. The song is the second single off her upcoming album of the same name, due Sept. 27.

    While building up to the significance of her upcoming album, the song evidently explores the dynamic between witnessing hardships and processing them in one’s own way.

    "Follow The Sound" by Morley

    The new title track, “Follow The Sound” is full of Morley’s dedication to activism along with a soft mix of jazz and folk. The song comes after the artist witnessed some of the most devastating fundamental issues currently taking place, firsthand. Impacted by the devastation she saw, Morley channeled what she saw into a piece of work from the perspective of a child who is a victim of family border separation.

    “Follow The Sound” is the work of Morley alongside her husband, producer, Chris Bruce, who also plays guitar on the record. Assisting the duo on the song and record are pianist pianist Jon Cowherd, bassist Meshell Ndegeocello, and drummer Jack DeBoe. The song is the second of four singles for the album including “It’s Hard To Stop” (June 21), “Follow The Sound” (July 26), “Here In Love” (August 9), and “Where Are We” (September 6).

    ‘Follow the Sound’ came to me while participating in an action at the US/Mexico Border responding to inhumane policies of family separation. The song speaks of a dream a child is having after being separated from their mother at the border, in the dream, the mother urges the child to follow the sound of her voice to find a safety beyond the physical realm. Follow the Sound is also a metaphor for following the sound of one’s own inner voice and the voice of the natural world, as one.

    Morley

    Morley uses her music to articulate her experiences with people of diverse backgrounds. After attending United Nations International School, and later the Duke Ellington High School for the Performing Arts, she’s accumulated knowledge about a variety of different cultures and the issues and discrimination people face. It was through those experiences, that she was able to form her views of the world, and therefore, her music.

    "Follow The Sound" by Morley

    Morley actively participates in multi-leveled activism such as fighting for human rights through releasing benefit albums. TED Women and TED X have also honored her as a featured performer and speaker. As a visionary through her music, she has brought artists like Yo-Yo Ma, Esperanza Spalding, Meryl Streep, and Rosanne Cash, among others together for powerful causes.

    To stream”Follow The Sound” and learn more about Morley, visit www.morleymusic.org.

  • Barbie Barker of Candy Ambulance Shares Debut Single “Unread”

    Barbie Barker of Troy’s Candy Ambulance, is embarking on a new solo project with debut single, “Unread” on July 19. The single comes ahead of an EP titled C. dropping July 26. As Barbie shifts her focus musically, she explores realms of vulnerability, emotions, and authenticity.

    "Unread" by Barbie Barker from "C."

    Barbie Barker stumbled upon this entirely new terrain when she started channeling immense genuity inspired by certain events in her life that deeply affected her. During the music-making process, it became apparent that the songs wouldn’t fit Candy Ambulance’s image. So instead, Barker, whose first name is Caitlin, choosing to take on the name Barbie after her grandmother, made the decision to undertake this era independently.

    Her debut single off of C., “Unread” tells the story of becoming so passionate about something to the point where it becomes all-consuming and affects more than yourself. It’s about remembering how things used to be, the transitions that took place, and the choices that need to be made. The lyrics are intimate, admitting the feelings that Barker had such a hard time bringing to light.

    Candy Ambulance is my first band and I put so much of my self worth into my role there. It was my salvation, the reason I go to therapy and work really hard to be a good person. I wrote about some really intense traumas I was working through and we toured the record where I bore my soul.

    Barbie Barker on “Unread”

    Against the backdrop of simple guitar and percussion, her voice guides the instruments along with the sentiment she’s expressing. The music starts slow and progressively picks up as more truths spill out. The words truly are the main attraction, combatting the feelings of pressure that Barker sings about, while the music submits to them. Put together by Barker and Tummy Rub Records, local musicians Joe Taurone (drums), Sam Walzyck (bass), and Dan Carr (guitar and production) understood and respected her vision.

    The song is the result of pushing forward while still needing to heal from deep traumas as well as the defense mechanisms put in place to cope with that life. Through the words, Barker comes to terms with the fact that are all doing life for the first time, and trying to navigate it and mend ourselves as we go.

    “Unread” is just one of five heartfelt indie-rock products of Barker’s writing journey. The upcoming EP C. is full of personal songs and anyone who listens can know they’re taking part in Barker’s healing. As a body of music, C. exemplifies the value of songwriting for artists and the solace that they can find. In Barker’s case, she uses it as an outlet that is less accessible when trying to appease everyone else.

    This EP is a short and (bitter)sweet account of my vulnerability in songwriting as I move through my life. The songs didn’t fit my band and it was scary to branch out and do a project of my own. I worked with the incredibly talented folks at Tummy Rub Records and the experience was effortless. We even used my scratch guitar tracks because the vibe was so comfortable. I am incredibly proud of what we accomplished together.

    Barbie Barker on C.

    Additionally, to celebrate the release of her new music, Barker and the folks at Tummy Rub are holding a release show on Friday, July 19 at The Hangar on the Hudson in Troy. She will be joined by her collaborators as well as special guests toriendofstory and Canella, who also contributed to the E.P. The two bands will open for Barker with their own original music on a night full of authenticity and creative expression.

    Pre-save and listen to “Unread” and C. on your preferred streaming platform. Purchase tickets for the release show here.

  • Woodstock Duo Spillway Release Debut Single, “Are You Having Fun Yet?”

    Spillway, a brother duo from Woodstock, made their musical debut on July 9, with their first release, “Are You Having Fun Yet?”

    Are You Having Fun Yet? by Spillway

    Twin brothers, Aaron and Wyatt Mones have been making music for years as singer-songwriters and multi-instrumentalists. However, this time around, they’re making music under their new project, Spillway. Named after the street they grew up on in Woodstock, the project emphasizes the sentiment of their musical upbringing and collaborations as brothers, even when they live on opposite coasts.

    Their new single “Are You Having Fun Yet?”, gives listeners a folky tune mixed with a more universal pop sound and hints of country western. Inspired by the music of artists like Blake Mills, Frank Ocean, and Sufjan Stevens, the song represents the artistic direction of each brother respectively, coming from different perspectives and environments. The song is successful in evoking nostalgia and reflection and truly has appealing features for vast tastes in music.

    The new song is Spillway’s first release on Indiana-based independent label, Wally Opus Records. The brothers self-produced the record themselves, having to either work remotely from each other or commute across the country to do so. So far, the song is gaining traction quickly on streaming services for having been out just less than a week. If “Are You Having Fun Yet?” is any indication of what Spillway will produce in the future, fans of folk and indie are going to want to keep them on their radar.

    Listen to “Are You Having Fun Yet?” on your preferred streaming platform here.

  • Andy James Releases Jazz Rendition of “New York State of Mind”

    Jazz vocalist Andy James from Las Vegas, NV put out her own rendition of the Billy Joel classic, “New York State of Mind.” The song, which is accompanied by a music video, is the latest single from her upcoming album, Let Me See Your Heart.

    Andy James, New York State of Mind

    Andy James has been a part of the entertainment industry for years. As an experienced dancer in Europe and a passionate Jazz singer, her music contains musings of her many experiences. She significantly expresses personal messages in her originals and adds new perspectives to beloved jazz songs.

    Let Me See Your Heart is James’ fifth album which she will release on August 9 on Le Coq Records. The album features contributions from a variety of renowned jazz musicians and frequent collaborators of James. The music includes pianist Jon Cowherd, drummer Nate Smith, percussionist Alex Acuna and bassist John Patitucci. Additionally, Grammy Award-winning keyboardist John Beasley, saxophonist and bass clarinetist John Ellis, guitarist Chico Pinheiro, and organist Ronnie Foster have features.

    The new rendition of “New York State of Mind” is a melting pot of sounds, creating a refreshing alternative to the classic piano ballad. The new perspective is exciting, providing a larger and more upbeat combination of instruments and including a female vocalist. The song reflects James’ jazz beginnings of casually recording songs that spoke to her. James ensured that the song upheld the personal and relaxed value while giving it a fresh spin.

    For me, the song that best sums up everything that’s great about this album may, in fact, be ‘New York State of Mind’ – it sounds so new and so different, not only does it makes me feel like I never really heard the song before, but it makes me look at the city itself with whole new eyes.  For a lifelong New Yorker, that’s really saying something.

    Will Friedwald, Jazz Critic

    Andy James is currently on tour, having just played shows at The Cutting Room in New York City, as well as a show in Nashville at Rudy’s Jazz Room. Next, she returns to Europe for a series of shows throughout July and August.

    For more information about Andy James’ music visit www.andyjames.com

  • New York-Based Artist Macinizby Debuts With “Closet”

    On May 24, Manhattan-based indie pop artist Macinizby released her debut single, “Closet.” The thoughtfully crafted single tells the coming-of-age story of a queer person finding their way through life, love, and heartbreak.

    Released right before the beginning of LGBTQ+ Pride Month, “Closet” opens the door for the next generation of queer artists and musicians to come into the spotlight.

    macinizby closet
    Photo Credit: Hellen Elizondo

    Before her solo debut, Macinizby had already built a reputation for herself as a drummer in the city’s indie rock scene, playing with acts such as Bec Lauder and The Noise, Breaker, and Rose Paradise. However, unlike her work as a group performer, “Closet” gives us a deeply personal perspective of who Macinizby is, not only as an artist but as an individual, writer, and producer.

    Produced alongside Jacob Geoffrey, “Closet” stands out from Macinizby’s past indie rock records with her group acts. The single acts as a method of storytelling for Macinizby. It’s hard to ignore the passion in her voice, let alone the meaningfulness of the lyrics. Reminiscent of the early days of Avril Lavigne and other pop-rock artists of the early 2000s, Macinizby puts her own creative spin on a classic teen love story.

    The steady guitar riffs, coming-of-age angst, and bouncy vocal melody brings this song back, while the storyline brings us into the modern day. With “Closet,” time travel is absolutely possible. Any listener instantly feels as if they’ve traveled in time to a music video from 20 years ago. Macinizby’s “Closet” is a great way to introduce new audiences to the pop-rock genre.

    As for the storyline, it is clear from the beginning what the artist is trying to convey. The struggles of a queer relationship are highlighted very poignantly. Yet, there is a sense of comfort that Macinizby’s lyrics and voice provide. Even in a situation as difficult as m maintaining a relationship, there is still hope. Love may or may not be the end result, but while it is there, it’s best if we enjoy it.

    Get ready to rock…but also be prepared to shed some gay
    tears.

    Macinizby

    For now, we must wait. But, there is no doubt that Macinizby’s new song, and solo career, are highly anticipated. Fans can listen to “Closet” on all major streaming platforms, as well as with this link.

  • Hipsy Gap Release Inspiring New Single “Nothing’s Good Enough”

    On May 31, Brooklyn-based indie rock band Hipsy Gap released their new single, “Nothing’s Good Enough.” Emerging on the indie rock scene last fall, the newfound group stuns audiences with its odes to indie and alternative legends like Paramore, The Cranberries, and The Smiths.

    hipsy gap releases

    A journey of self-discovery and identity can be one of the hardest that a person has to make in their life. Feelings of isolation, loneliness, and estrangement can creep up at any moment, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and nationwide lockdowns. With constant stimulation and ostracization, it can be difficult to find something that relates to life’s toughest battles. Yet, Hipsy Gap is able to do just that in their soothing, easygoing latest track.

    “Nothing’s Good Enough” handles a complex, deeply personal issue that would still be relatable for listeners: the idea of home. Part of life is learning how to make your own home, even if it is in an unfamiliar environment. But what if there was never a model for a person while they were growing up? The idea of “home” has different definitions for different people, of course. But there is no denying how difficult it can be to form and maintain those ideas.

    “Nothing’s Good Enough” captures a unique perspective; searching for a “home” in the eyes of a person who has never known one before. The easygoing and flowing melodies showcase their dream of a life with no bounds, a feeling of true freedom. The increase in tempo and volume of the bridge, when the characters realize home is within, is just gut-wrenching enough to hit home for listeners struggling to find their home.

    With their latest single bringing a feeling of comfort, angst, and discovery all in one, Hipsy Gap encapsulates the meaning of home from within. Their fascinating combination of genres makes them an exciting up-and-coming band to keep your eye on.

    For more information, fans can listen below as well as all streaming platforms, or visit here.

  • Adequate Phil Release Latest Single “Limes,” Marking Final Track Before Debut Album

    Rochester psychedelic indie rock band Adequate Phil have released their latest track, “Limes” which is out on all streaming services now. The song marks their final single before the release of their debut album.

    adequate Phil Limes

    Adequate Phil, hailing from Troy, is an experimental psychedelic indie rock powerhouse with influences from Radiohead, Animal Collective, The Beatles, and The Shins. With the release of their debut album on the horizon and in spite of recent personal difficulties and lineup changes, Adequate Phil continues to captivate audiences with their magnetic stage presence and innovative sound. Since 2021, they’ve been an eclectic and relatively underground driving force in the local scene.

    adequate Phil Limes

    The track “Limes” is nothing short of unique. Its monumental psychedelic influence just oozes out of each pore of the track. You can hear the influence from classic psychedelic bands like The Beatles, Grateful Dead, Jimi Hendrix, and more. You can also hear influence from artists like King Gizzard and even Yoko Ono.

    The vocals are haunting and obscure, the lead and rhythm guitar are hallucinogenic. Nothing about this song is conventional, but it has an eerie familiarity. The more you listen, the more you become entranced by the sounds the band emanates.

    For more information on Adequate Phil and to lay ears on their latest single, “Limes,” click here.