NYS Music 2024

Tag: New Single

  • JOE GENI Unveils Newest Single ‘City of Light’ Prior To October Album Release

    JOE GENI reveals his newest single ‘City of Light’ ahead of the October 4 release of his album ‘Cities Built Upon Cities’.

    Born in Illinois but living most of his adult life in New York City, Joe Geni has been releasing reflective indie-pop tracks since 2019 with his debut album ‘After Wandering Empire’, followed by the release of ‘Doggerland’ in 2021. Narratives of international affairs, climate change, urban infrastructure, and transportation all connect with the depths of the emotional human experience throughout his discography, a careful weaving that continues through his most recent releases.

    About The New Single

    “City of Light” joins two other pre-release singles for Geni’s newest album, “City of Energy” and “City Where The Sky Subsides,” creating a culminating piece that traces the transformation of Long Island City from its industrial past to the booming skyscrapers of today, all while reflecting on change, impermanence, the parting of friends, and feeling lost in the experience that is the city’s constant evolution.

    “City of Light” in particular highlights the power of human connection and resilience in the face of lockdowns. While highlighting the friendship and community that can come from such dire situations- a testament to human connection and hope that emerged while the earth heals.

    “And as the pandemic abated and something vaguely resembling normal life began to re-emerge, I, like one of our tiny mammalian ancestors crawling out of its burrow after the meteor that wiped out the non-avian dinosaurs, felt a burst of energy, and a feeling that that really in spite of everything we will be OK. Maybe.”

    – JOE GENI

    The upcoming album, as with Geni’s previous works, is produced, mixed, and mastered by Charlie Nieland, who has previously worked with the likes of Debbie Harry, Rufus Wainwright, and Blondie.

    To learn more about “City of Light,” his upcoming album, and his story, visit JOE GENI’s website here.

  • ‘Ova With’ The Wait As MVW Releases New Single With Lisha G Ahead of Album Launch

    Producer/Composer MVW is back with a new single featuring current Houston underground staple Lisha G. The new record, “Ova With,” is a silky flowing thumper that sees MVW brings his trademark piano driven melodies. Meanwhile, the burgeoning Lisha G’s penetrating vocals and southern twang to create a stimulating mix.

    "Ova With" song cover
    MVW’s new single “Ova With” features burgeoning Houston rapper Lisha G.

    Her intoxicating flow makes for a trippy listen on it own however, however, combined with MVW’s classically trained melodies create a refreshing song with two artists forging their own unique paths. Yet, aside from Lisha G’s inviting vocals, her appeal comes from the wholesome, small-town values that set the Houston rapper apart from other artists. Moreover, “Ova With” continues a rise that has also seen her collaborate with Famous Dex and gain even more traction following her performance in her On The Radar Freestyle. For his part, MVW continues to collaborate and feature bubbling female underground rap artists. He dropped songs with TiaCorine, aka Freaky T and rising star Anycia. 

    New Album

    All in all, this is the beginning of what presumes to be a busy few months for for MVW as the Staten Island native is set to release a joint-project this October with frequent collaborator Valee. Earlier this year MVW dropped “Goofy” featuring deceased legend Gangsta Boo. Meanwhile, the fall release will be their second collaborative album, as their debut effort Valeedation offered a welcome into MVW and Valee’s world of pianos, violins, horns and effortless delivery.

    The new project will be MVW’s 4th hip hop album following his decision to complement his career as a composer by expanding into the fluid world of hip hop music. MVW kicked things off in 2021 with the Lex Luger assisted CLASSIC$, followed by Connections in 2022 and Valeedation with Valee in 2023.

  • Grafh & 38 Spesh Get Their ‘Rocafella Chain’ In New Single Ft. Memphis Bleek, Freeway, Peedi Crack

    Grafh and 38 Spesh’s “Rocafella Chain” is the latest single in promotion of their joint-album, God’s Timing, which drops on August 2. The new single features a quartet of former Roc-A-Fella Records artists in Memphis Bleek, Freeway, Peedi Crack and Grafh himself in an ode to the legendary record label. Moreover, this is the second single Grafh and 38 Spesh have released ahead of God’s Timing, with this new single following the Talib Kweli assisted, “Right Now.”

    Grafh
    Roc-A-Fella records alumni come together for this latest heater

    If these two records are anything to go by then the new project will be full of quality. On “Rocafella Chain,” 38 Spesh sets the tone with a hard-hitting horn and drums loop before each artist takes turns trying to steal the show. In like manner, the record brings back memories of a good old posse cut. In turn, each artist brings their distinctive style, creating a dynamic and energetic anthem that pays respect to their roots while pushing the boundaries of contemporary hip-hop.

    God’s Timing

    God’s Timing will be released on August 2, and is produced in its entirety by 38 Spesh. The album also includes appearances from Jim Jones, Talib Kweli, Method Man, Vado, Freeway, Memphis Bleek and Peedi Crakk. This will be the first joint-project between Grafh and 38 Spesh in a link-up between upstate, New York and the city.

  • Jim Jones, Brady Watt Join Forces At ‘Godspeed’

    Jim Jones’ rapping and delivery have aged like wine. Thus it comes as no surprise that as Brady Watt sifted through beats at — Dipset affiliates — Heatmakers’ studio, he could not help but think of Capo. “With Dipset already on my mind, we reached out to Jim Jones, and he miraculously came to the studio a few days later,” Watt recalls. 

    Jim Jones and Brady Watt in the studio
    Brady Watt adds his touch to The Heatmakers’ beat, creating “Godspeed.”

    Hence, the end result –“Godspeed”– is classic Heatmakers beat. Backed by a high pitch and soul sample, the record sees Jim Jones introspectively shares his life and times and Brady Watt delivers a passionate chorus. Yet during the recording process, Watt was mourning the loss of a close friend’s father. Thus channeling his emotions into the song, turning his sadness into a passionate message about gratitude, alignment with destiny and God’s timing.

    “Jim did the verse on the spot and brought everything to the next level. Thankfully, my cameraman was there to document everything,” Watt reveals. Indeed, the music video for “Godspeed” consists of the intimate studio session, showcasing Watt’s diversity as he provides vocals, production and instrumentation on the record.

    “I’m a lifelong Dipset fan,” Watt shares. “Over the years, I’ve developed a friendship with Jim and Heatmakerz. I’m always making beats, but I wanted to see what would happen if I used someone else’s production while still adding my instrumentation and bass.”

    More From Brady Watt

    Ultimately, “Godspeed” is the latest feather in the cap of the the multi-instrumentalist/producer. After all Watt has been a hip hop mainstay thanks to his musical chops. Aside from being a well-renowned live musician and session bass player, he continues to push musical boundaries with his groundbreaking “Bass & Bars” series, which has now garnered over 100 million views. 

  • Ann Nesby & The Sounds of Blackness Reinvented In ‘We Rise (Raf N’ Soul New York Remix)’

    From Brooklyn-based Bassline Records, grammy-winning r&b/gospel ensemble The Sounds of Blackness return with a reinvented Ann Nesby in an uptempo dance and soul infused remix with producer Raf N’ Soul. Released on July 4, “We Rise (Raf N’ Soul New York Remix)” was originally written by Ann Nesby and Victor Simonelli for the Atlanta Olympic Games. At the present time Simonelli sought out DJ and producer Raf N’ Soul to revamp the powerful record. Hence, the resulting arrangement of diverse musical styles brings life to the record and its powerful and unifying message.

    Ann Nesby "We Rise" cover art

    Thus, in 7 minutes and 10 seconds Raf n’ Soul takes everything to the next level with an orchestra of gospel, r&b, house and dance music all seamlessly coinciding. Chiefly, “We Rise (Raf N’ Soul New York Remix)” sets the stage with an uptempo dance beat as Ann Nesby’s ferocious vocals carry throughout. However the record is a makeup of varying styles with Detroit string player Marleen Rice offering an r&b/orchestral touch while trumpet player Syreeta Thompson bringing a southern jazz twist to the electric blend.

    “We Rise” Behind The Scenes

    To top this momentous release Raf N’ Soul Productions shared a a behind the scenes documentary into the making of “We Rise (Raf N’ Soul New York Remix).” The short-film offers an inside look into the impressive production team behind the record. A studio session hosting Recording Academy voting members Raf N’ Soul and Syreeta Thompson, multiple grammy winners, and Aretha Franklin’s former violinist in Marleen Rice was expectedly a free-flowing exchange of talent and creativity. After, Ann Nesby shared thoughts on the meaning behind “We Rise,” before getting an inside look into the concept and photoshoot behind the single’s artwork.

    We Rise is a song that was developed to encourage people that were going through something or working to rise above a goal that they felt was so depressing for them and to know that there’s a winner inside of you that no one can stop. And when you see that goal coming through you know who you are and that your dream has become reality.

    – Ann Nesby

    Ann Nesby & The Sounds of Blackness

    Ann Nesby and The Sounds of Blackness walk hand-in-hand as less heralded legends of R&B, gospel and soul-music. However, their lasting influences are in the generation of artists that honed their voice in church. Nonetheless, they are vital part of history, to which their sustained cultural relevance and critical-acclaim is a testament to.

  • WYLDLIFE Rocks Out With New Single ‘Fast Dreams’

    On June 21, NYC-based punk rock band WYLDLIFE released their newest single, “Fast Dreams.” The new single is the band’s first release since their 2020 album, “Year of the Snake.” Complete with fast-paced guitar riffs, a moving bassline, and exciting, gritty vocals, “Fast Dreams,” WYLDLIFE makes headbanging-worthy rock and roll music fun again.

    wyldlife

    For over the last decade, WYLDLIFE has brought the 70s rock and roll style back to New York City’s music scene. Their fun-filled single and music video are the latest thing to come out of their label, Wicked Cool Records. WYLDLIFE has four members: Dave Feldman (vocals), Sam Allen (guitar), Spencer Alexander (bass), and Russ Barrnett (drums), each committed to bringing back the classic sounds of the 70s like Blondie and Ramones. Since 2009, WYLDLIFE has released 4 full studio albums and were nominated for an Independent Music Award for Best Rock/Hard Rock Song.

    Their newest single, however, is a captivating mix of sounds from different eras. The 70s inspiration is absolutely prevalent, but upon first listen, it feels like a 2000s power anthem. The fast-moving bassline, combined with Feldman’s vocals, is reminiscent of alt-rock outfits like Palaye Royale, Arcade Fire, and The White Stripes. Amidst the current ever-popular trap and indie-pop scene, WYLDLIFE’s newest single is a fantastic juxtaposition that has all the right elements of nostalgia, yet still manages to sound fresh, original, and new.

    The lyrics of “Fast Dreams” tell an incredibly relatable story about someone excited for their dreams to come true while having to wrestle with the mundane parts of life. “Fast Dreams” brings us a familiar narrative about someone trying to make their dreams come true as fast as possible because they are simply too excited for success. “Fast Dreams” feels like a song that would belong on the soundtrack of a coming-of-age movie, with the narrator’s contradictory feelings of angst and excitement.

    Along with their newest single, the music video for “Fast Dreams” is also out for consumption. Animated in the style of a 2-bit arcade game, the music video features WYLDLIFE as video game characters, racing against reality and time to achieve their goal. The message of the single is executed perfectly, and it is obvious that the group had a blast when creating the video together. “Fast Dreams” was the best thing to come out of their four-year-long hiatus.

    “Fast Dreams” is available on all streaming platforms. To watch their music video or check out any of WYLDLIFE’s other powerhouse anthems, check them out on Bandcamp. For any touring information, follow their Facebook page.

  • NYC Vocalist Morley Releases Highly Anticipated Single “It’s Hard To Stop” 

    On Friday, June 21, Manhattan-based singer-songwriter Morley released her newest single, “It’s Hard to Stop.” The single is the first off of her forthcoming album, Follow the Sound, set to release on September 27.

    In collaboration with her husband, Chris Bruce, “It’s Hard to Stop” is a soft, soothing recollection on the tenderness of the human condition and heartbreak.

    morley

    Over the course of the last decade, Morley has received widespread critical acclaim for her contributions to the arts. Before releasing her first album, Morley worked for the Alvin Ailey American Dance Center, a modern dance company based in Manhattan, as a choreographer. During her tours with the dance center, she began writing and composing original music.

    Morley’s style combines elements of jazz, folk, and classic Americana glued together by free-flowing improvisation. “It’s Hard to Stop” is no different. The single incorporates elements of acoustic folk and indie with her bluesy voice reminiscent of Nina Simone.

    Since then, she has used her music to become a widespread advocate for social justice. Morley has performed all over the world, including for and alongside prominent activists, charities, and religious figures, including His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Nelson Mandela, and Virgin Unite. In 2019, Morley released the album Borderless Lullabies, which continues to raise funds for K-I-N-D (Kids In Need Of Defense).

    morley

    Now, Morley is ready to unleash her creativity through a combination of her iconic folk and jazz-inspired sounds. Along with her husband, producer Chris Bruce, Follow The Sound has contributions from several artists and instrumentalists. Meshell Ndegeocello (bass), Shara Nova a.k.a. My Brightest Diamond (vocals), Toumani Diabaté (kora), Jon Cowherd (piano), Chris Bruce (guitar, bass), Arun & Trina Ramamurthy (violins), Jack DeBoe, Jay Bellerose and Abe Rounds (drums), and Cole Kamen (trumpet) all contributed to the highly-anticipated album.

    ‘It’s Hard To Stop’ arose from an improv, a stream of consciousness while Chris and I were playing in our apartment one night. Looking out the window at all those city lights got me thinking about all the dreams and tender hearts striving to have a beautiful life inside them, glimpses of our highest possibilities came to mind, and how hard it is to stop from wanting things to be different in the world than the way they are, right now.

    Morley

    For more information on the artist and future releases, visit their website. To Stream “It’s Hard To Stop,” click HERE.

  • Charley Orlando Releases Captivating New Single “Slipstream”

    Syracuse native Charley Orlando has released his newest single, “Slipstream.” Featuring an easy-listening guitar melody accompanied by a hint of a folky/country twang, the song presents itself with a laid-back, calming presence to all listeners.

    charley orlando slipstream

    Over the last 30 years, Charley Orlando has developed an impressive reputation as a musician. With an impressive 28 Grammy Ballot nominations, 18 releases, and over 30 years of touring, he has cemented his place as an influential and respected musician in the industry. Other than his career as a solo musician, Orlando is an active group performer. He has performed as part of Ruha, which releases its own, original music, and bob., a Bob Dylan tribute band. His music is a unique blend of blues, folk, and rock, with heartfelt lyrics that resonate with audiences around the world.

    Orlando’s latest single, “Slipstream,” is the second of a series of singles that he plans to release over the next year. Much like his last single, “California,” Slipstream embodies the best elements of music from the late 60s and early 70s. The easy-going vibes set by the instrumental, along with masterful lyrics that display sensitivity and vulnerability, are reminiscent of artists like Bob Dylan, Seals and Crofts, Steely Dan, and more. The instrumentals offer a perfect blend of blues and rock that makes the single stand out as an easy listening tool. Despite its ongoing themes of anxiety, pain, and struggle, Charley Orlando’s “Slipstream” offers a relaxed, comforting, and secure peace of mind.

    Lyrically, the single reads as a plea for help in times of struggle. The line “My sweet friend, get me out of this slipstream” repeated throughout each chorus tells us where Orlando is coming from. But despite the pleas to be saved, Orlando’s steady, delicate voice tells us that there is still hope. Whatever may have caused the metaphorical slipstream, someone will be there to help get you out of it. Even if he is unsure, he knows that there is someone who will always be by his side. It is a message of a precious relationship that one can only hope to have. For those who do, it would only make them even more appreciative of their loved ones.

    Following the release of “Slipstream,” Charley Orlando announced a series of live performances happening this summer. All events are listed below. Slipstream is available on all streaming platforms. To download for free, visit this link, and use code n1aw-hv0b.

    Charley Orlando Live Shows

    7/21 Syracuse, NY; Private Event (Pearly Baker’s Best)

    8/11 Bouckville, NY; The Yard @ RBQ 4-7 pm (bob.) Tickets Here

    8/18 Syracuse, NY; Funk ‘n Waffles 6-8 pm (Solo) w/ Chris Merkley, Joe Driscoll, and Mike Frisina for a Storytellers 10th Anniversary Show!

  • 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.

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