Piff Marti, New York-born and bred artist, is the prototype for new, independent artists. To provide some background on Piff Marti’s unconventional, but modern route to success, the rapper’s career actually began on the viral video-sharing app TikTok, where he found viral success with songs like “New Crib”, “Boys Do Cry” & “Flex”. He masterfully took advantage of the viral nature of the app and a combination of both right time and place launched him into a successful music career and hasn’t looked back since. The Bronx-based artist’s rise to fame isn’t the only unconventional thing about his music career. Piff Marti strays from the pack of new-age rappers with his impressive lyricism and uplifting messages. Piff's tracks often confront emotional and optimistic themes in hopes to articulate those confusing thoughts and emotions. Citing inspiration from artists such as Kanye West, Childish Gambino, Beyoncé, and Kendrick Lamar, he hopes to inspire his listeners in the same way his music idols inspire him.
If Jakobs Castle were a physical place, it would exist somewhere in the present that’s also rooted in history—and that’s exactly how Jakob Nowell approached the 14 songs that make up Enter: The Castle. As the son of Sublime’s legendary frontman Bradley Nowell, there is no denying that Jakob is influenced by his father’s music and legacy. However Jakobs Castle is anything but a nostalgic rehash. Instead these songs are remarkably cutting-edge while still retaining the keen sense of melody that endeared his father’s music to millions of people all over the world. Nowell has described the project as “mixing California’s past with the fresh mystery of internet underground culture” and that’s a good place to start. But it’s only the tip of the proverbial iceberg when it comes to the sonic and emotional depth of this varied collection of songs. The 28-year-old Nowell got his start playing in the popular Southern California rock act LAW, however Jakobs Castle is an unfiltered version of his own musical identity which he created alongside producer and co-collaborator Jon Joseph. “I think that Jon was the guy who really helped me discover my sound because I would show him the synth sounds I wanted or what I liked for vocal effects and it became this affected cyber ska weirdness,” Nowell explains. Enter: The Castle may not feature palm-muted guitars or pick slides but in many ways it is a modern interpretation of punk, in the same way that Sublime organically incorporated elements of reggae and pop into their sound in the nineties. “I see the spirit of punk to be alive in what people today call hyper pop or bedroom pop, even if it’s not always aggressive,” Nowell explains. “I find that spirit of DIY ingenuity and trying to challenge social norms to be present in those types of artists today.”
Powerhouse vocalist, songwriter, and producer TEZATALKS coins her sound as Hardcore Pop, a blend of nu-metal, Alt-rap, and electronic pop. Her lyrics are inspired by her life experiences and love of poetry. TEZA’s expression of dynamic vocals, unique melodies, and anthemic messages are influenced by the Hard-Popstar strange range of musical experiences, which shows in the intimacy of her writing. Her music feels as if she is talking to you. TEZA’s first release in 2016 accrued 70 million streams gaining HER a cult following and dedicated fanbase. Witnessing TEZA’s live performance is truly where the genre-blending artist shines from playing known festivals such as Afro-punk, Capitol Hill Block Party, Treefort Music Festival, to touring with Danish Pop Star MØ in 2022.She invites listeners and audience members to face their darkness by sharing how she found the “Light” in her own.
Not long after crossing beyond the neon into Al’s Tavern, one might catch murmurs drifting up and down the bar during Dean Johnson’s bartending shifts – nudges and whispers that he might just be the best songwriter in town. “Wait ’til you hear him sing. Just don’t ask him to do it, because he won’t. He might do another show this year, but probably not.” Al’s regulars, howsoever biased, speak of his talent like a family secret – Seattle folklore. How many times, and for how many years, has Dean elusively replied to some variation of the question, “When will there be a record?” The phrase “hidden gem” would seem appropriate here, but it’s a misnomer when talking about Dean Johnson. He shines bright, in plain sight, and it was only a matter of time before people stopped to take a look. Dean’s gentle and passionate approach to songwriting has inspired many, and his work provides the listener the opportunity to believe once more that a song can be more than the sum of its parts. If you catch even a phrase of his melodies or the sobering tone of his voice, it waltzes its way into your heart like a letter written, signed, sealed, and delivered just for you. His debut album Nothing for Me, Please was recorded at Mashed Potato Records in New Orleans with the help of Sam Gelband and Charlie Meyer, Dean’s bandmates in The Sons of Rainier; as well as Mashed Potato regulars Sam Doores, Duff Thompson and Steph Green. The record is a hazy, relaxed daydream – anthems for those who know the sweetness and coldness of quiet moments, the power and the pain of love. Whether you’ve been waiting patiently these many for Dean to release these songs, or you’re just now coming across his work for the first time, the name Dean Johnson, much like his songs, won’t soon leave your mind. Nothing for Me, Please is out now on Mama Bird Recording Co.
With charisma as warm as the Kentucky sun, The Kentucky Gentlemen are not just making their mark on the country music scene - they are redefining it. The dynamic twin brother country music duo have been captivating audiences with a sound that is a reflection of their roots - the country sounds they grew up with and the modern R&B and pop influences they've absorbed over the years. In both music and life, Brandon and Derek Campbell have been nearly inseparable since birth. These brothers from Versailles, Ky., got their first public singing experience in a church choir. Songs filled with poignant lyrics that speak to the heart with melodies that linger long after the last note has been played. Their authenticity, coupled with their musical talent, has earned them a loyal fan base along with being named 2023 'Artist to Watch' by both NPR and Nashville's Country Music Almanac. The duo is also a part of the 2023-2024 Academy of Country Music “Future Leaders of The Music Industry” OnRamp Program. The boundary breaking duo has spent the year both touring and writing. Recently releasing an Apple Music Session with Fancy Hagood, that included TJ Osborne (Brother’s Osborne). Past singles, Vibin’ and Whatever You’re Up For have topped CMT’s music video Countdowns. The Kentucky Gentlemen are a testament to the enduring power of music, a remarkable reminder of the ties that bind us, and a tribute to the timeless appeal of the country music genre.
King Youngblood is focused on reclaiming rock music, specifically black fronted rock packed with strong song writing, Afropunk attitude and an undeniable exhilarating live show. Alternative Press calls King Youngblood “Seattle’s Alt Rock Princes” - they sure got that right. Twenty-four-year-old founder and front man Cameron Lavi-Jones, along with, drummer Paul Stoot, cellist Chet Peterson, and bassist Samy Garcia have a singular mission: grab heavy guitar/drums rock by the collar and drag it into the willing arms of the fresh new generation of fans currently fueling the world-wide resurgence of rock music. The world agrees with affirming descriptions including AfroPunk Magazine in October 2022 declaring “King Youngblood’s skill at transforming a small phrase into a massive hook is at this point unparalleled in the world of heavy music.” Their 2022 year was an explosive break out year with singles and videos releasing every 30-45 days including the bangers – Too Late Too Soon, Cried In My Cadillac and Thousand Songs with a music video that premiered on non-commercial Seattle radio station favorite KEXP 90.3 FM. Big Thank released March 13, 2022 with a resoundingly loud and rocking celebration at the Crocodile’s Madam Lou room May 11, 2022 filled with industry folks and fans head banging with wild abandon. It is no wonder the Seattle Times listed King Youngblood in the top 20 albums of 2022 and they are just getting started. King Youngblood is the founder and centerpiece of the Black and Loud National and International Tour and Festival in partnership with Black and Loud’s title sponsor Jack Daniels. The recent Black and Loud Fest is September 23, 2023 in Seattle, WA with a full building takeover of the Crocodile – Seattle’s freshest live music venue was a great success for attendance, diversity and critical acclaim - https://www.musicconnection.com/live-review-king-youngblood/ Incessant national touring, a comic book series called Afrothunda depicting King Youngblood as rockers and super heroes from “Planet Xenon,” plus the AfroThunda Soundtrack released October 28, 2022 and more music videos and unique merchandise all are part of the cavalcade of activity erupting from King Youngblood in the wake of their breakthrough album Big Thank. And more music is coming jumping into 2024 both full band electric with commercial modern rock ready co-writes with rock radio chart topping Seattle rock hero Ayron Jones and stripped down orchestral versions of the Big Thank album as this band is as prolific in the studio as they are undeniably super charged on stage.
ASANI? is a 23 year old producer, engineer and artist born and raised in Southern California. ASANI? fell in love with making music in high school and hasn’t looked back since. Taking inspiration from a variety of artists such as PARTYNEXTDOOR , and Bryson Tiller to Jay-Z and ODB -- ASANI? aims to bridge the gap between newer and older generations of Hiphop/RnB.
Delishia J, a rising star in the world of R&B, captivates audiences with their soulful voice and effortless charm. Hailing from East Texas , Delishia J released her first EP with hit singles "Put You On & Fight Night which infuses each melody with emotion, drawing listeners into a world of love, longing, and heartfelt expression. With influences ranging from classic soul sounds of Anita Baker to modern R&B artist, her music blends smooth vocals with infectious rhythms, creating a sound that is both timeless and contemporary. From intimate performances to electrifying stage presence, Delishia J leaves an indelible mark on all who hear their music, promising a journey of passion, romance, and soul-stirring melodies.
A 25-year-old artist from Milton Freewater, Oregon -- Selektis brings a relaxed Travis Scott/Lil Baby inspired flow with a mellow vibe that compliments the instrumentals he creates. By producing his own beats, he is able to fabricate a cohesive sound that not only allows you to feel the music, but also reflect on the lyrics. You can listen to his music for whatever mood you are in.
