MUST LISTEN 090
Every week, we’ll be bringing you Must Listen: a series that's a compilation of rising artists along with songs that must be added to your everyday playlist. This week’s playlist consists of emerging acts like Eric Nam, Kevin Holliday, and Maddy Brown. Turn on, tune in, and zone out.
Kevin Holliday
Bubbling Brooklyn artist Kevin Holliday unveils his latest release “Expensive Taste.” The upbeat, bass-slapping track sees the independent artist channel everything that made the 80s iconic through a contemporary lens. The heavily funk-inspired sound will feel nostalgic for oldies lovers, while Holliday ensures that he stands out from present-day peers.
Photo Credit: Kisanet Bezabih
Maddy Brown
L.A. based singer-songwriter, Maddy Brown, releases her introspective R&B single “Wiser.” The track is an autobiographical narrative that details finding your footing after a devastating breakup while touching on themes of growth and self-worth. The track is just a taste of what is in store for her sonically with her six-track pop-R&B debut EP coming out later this year.
Eric Ryan
Toronto native, Eric Ryan, kicks off the new year with his fresh new single, “Better.” The track comes from the experience of reconnecting with a lost love and coming to terms with the love you still have for them. The rising star’s vocals float effortlessly over a minimalistic production that will leave you reflecting on your past relationships wondering what you could’ve done better.
Ripsime
“Tell me the lie” is the debut single from singer-songwriter Ripsime, released alongside a moving visual with footage from a self-directed film. The self-produced track was written one week before the war in Armenia ensued, touching on themes of hope and change, we can’t help but want more from the multi-talented artist.
Brittany Campbell
Los Angeles singer-songwriter, animator, actress, and activist Brittany Campell represents a new generation of R&B artists with her latest single, “Eternally.” The track fuses elements of classic R&B with a distinctly modern sensibility that finds Campbell earnestly grappling with the boundless ripple effects that come from a crumbling relationship.
Eric Nam
Bonafide global Korean-American singer-songwriter Eric Nam has released his highly anticipated all-English sophomore album, There And Back Again. Standout track “Lost On Me” is an irresistibly catchy and sleek pop record that has you hooked from the smooth chorus and velvety harmonies throughout. This record marks Nam’s first release as an independent artist.
KID TRAVIS
Philadelphia native, KID TRAVIS, returns with his electro-pop single “Where You’re From.” The track is packed with a fresh and groovy production that masks the melancholic lyrics that come from a place of heartbreak. With a string of strong releases in 2020, we’re excited to see what the genre-bending artist delivers this year.
Young T & Bugsey
The Nottingham power duo returns in the new year with, “Blessings” - melodic rap at its best. Featuring reggae star chronixx on an addictive hook, the two spit meaningful verses about their new lifestyle and old habits accompanied by their signature catchy flows. The energized tune is off of their new mixtape Truth Be Told, which is set to be released on January 21st.