Archives: press_release

Portland Americana Artist Reminisces on Losing and Retrieving Love

Portland, OR – Folk singer-songwriter J. Nicolás has released his latest single, “Lost + Found.” The new track reflects on a love he feels is being lost and ponders the possibilities for revival. “Lost + Found” is being released alongside a studio performance music video, which can be viewed on YouTube. The single is available to be streamed on digital music platforms worldwide.

With a combination of picturesque lyricism, layered guitars, and raspy, inviting vocals, J Nicolás skillfully tells the story of losing a love and longing to rediscover it. Nicolás took inspiration from his life, past dreams, and memories to create a compelling song about finding something to hold on to in trying times. “’Lost + Found’ was inspired by a couple of things: I’ve had this recurring dream since childhood, where I fall into a dark hole and encounter a witch,” Nicolás explains. “It’s a tribute to someone who has helped me find myself & encouraged me to be vulnerable as a means of finding my way out of that hole — often just by merely being in their presence.” The accompanying music video displays Nicolás performing his newest track live in an intimate and warm setting. Nicolás produced and mixed the track at The Hallowed Halls & Mission Mountain Recording Co. with Allen Hunter on bass, and Joe Mengis on drums. “Lost + Found” was mastered by Amy Dragon at Telegraph Mastering.

J Nicolás has been involved in the indie rock scene for over 20 years, and only recently began his solo career in the folk area, gaining a fanbase in both genres. He has toured all over the U.S. and has played internationally with a copious amount of musicians. Nicolás’ first album Wild Oak was released at the end of 2021; with 10-tracks, he dives into his journey of self-discovery and uses poetic lyricism to make a mark on the folk genre. His upcoming sophomore album, A Rosary of Bone, will further tell his story of introspection and focuses more on his darker times, leading to his ability to overcome hardship.

“Lost + Found” is a message about finding hope even when there is none to be found. The single is available worldwide on all streaming platforms, while the music video is available on YouTube. To keep up with J Nicolás, follow him on Instagram @JNicolasMusic and visit his website at JNicolasMusic.com.

Santa Barbara, CA – Indie pop artist Dawson Fuss has released his newest single, “Nothing Really Changes.” The track incorporates a strong guitar, profound lyricism, and a focus on Fuss’s robust vocals. “Nothing Really Changes” is available to download and stream on all platforms.

“Nothing Really Changes” is the first single to follow Fuss’s debut EP Edge of Adolescence, marking an evolution and maturation of his sound and thematic material, as he enters the final months of his senior year of high school. Listeners will relate to this track as its message focuses on the transition from childhood to adulthood and the struggles that follow. “I grew up believing that as soon as I blew out the candles on my 18th birthday, the shackles of childhood would be broken…The problems I’d faced previously didn’t magically disappear, yet in reality, they became larger and more pressing,” said Fuss about the track. Influenced by Conan Gray, Ruel and Role Model, the song focuses on a steady and upbeat tune, while the lyrics tell a deeper story. Lyrics like “Thinking about stealing my childhood edge of adolescence” are some of the several prominent lines in this song, with this line specifically referencing his last EP. While reflecting on his childhood, Fuss states, “I realized I took advantage of the benefits of being a kid and living in a world of ignorance that now, being out of the bubble, I wish I could crawl back in and live in that blissful place.” The drastic shifts that people face growing up and maturing are something that all listeners can relate to no matter their age.

Dawson Fuss began humming along to music on the radio before he could talk. In the latter half of his high school career, Fuss began writing and developing his own music. He showcased his song “Real Boys Don’t Cry” at a singing competition, Teen Star Santa Barbara. The competition was judged by American Idol’s Randy Jackson, who proclaimed after Fuss’s performance, “A star is born!” Fuss continues to write original music, alongside writing partners Luke Matthew, Will Everett, and Yaron.

“Nothing Really Changes” will have listeners bumping their heads along to the beat while still encouraging reflection on their past selves. Download or stream “Nothing Really Changes” on all music platforms now. To stay up to date on Dawson Fuss’s musical journey, follow his Instagram @dawsonfuss or visit www.dawsonfuss.com.

Philadelphia, PA – International touring musician Ryan Tennis has released his enthralling new album Hey, Rollercoaster. With themes ranging from unrequited love, questionable life habits, the creative process, and reminiscing on life’s ups and downs, his 7^th album, Hey, Rollercoaster, evokes a spirit of hope in a moment when it’s easy to feel hopeless. Hey, Rollercoaster is now available to stream and download on music platforms worldwide.

Ryan Tennis’ catchy melodies and earthy grooves have the grounded feel that comes from years and years of tours and performances in countless settings. The lyrics are delicate but still conversational and unpretentious. “With the album title, Hey, Rollercoaster, I’m saying, ‘Look, I have no idea what the world is going to throw at us next,’” explains Tennis. “Our brains are not equipped to process the turmoil of the whole world, all day every day. At a certain point, we have to turn off the news, stop the doom-scrolling, and find real connections and moments that make us happy.” This record is Tennis’ attempt to do that. “At one point, I noticed that literally, every song on here is in a major key. But that’s what I’ve needed, something real, but also something with some levity, some joy.”

Mastering this optimistic outlook and developing his sound has been a process that has taken him over a decade. Tennis has found solace in connecting a global audience that resonates with it. His worldly artistry on Hey, Rollercoaster is conveyed through his wise, established perspective on life coupled with his unique signature sound: slick acoustic guitar rooted in his folk background, groovy bass lines, and Caribbean-influenced drums. “The arrangements and rhythms definitely bear the influence of the time I’ve spent in South America,” Tennis elaborates. This is on display in his song, “Morena,” a buoyant bi-lingual track co-written by Funkcho Salas and Andres Mordecai of the Latin Grammy-nominated Colombian group, El Caribefunk. The album also features previously released singles “Alligator,” a playful track about a raving inner monologue during quarantine, and “Oh, Alexandra,” a clever twist on the experience of unrequited love.

After years of international travels, Ryan Tennis has found his footing in Philadelphia, where he undertook the cathartic process of creating Hey, Rollercoaster. Tennis co-produced the album alongside previous collaborators Pete Donnelly, Tim Sonnefeld, and Brahm Genzlinger. Donnelly (John Legend, Shelby Lynne) was at the helm for seven of the nine songs, while two-time Grammy-winner Sonnefeld (Elvis Costello, Usher) and Genzlinger worked with him on the single “Alligator,” and “I Feel It.” The songs cover a diverse array of themes. “I Feel It” is a dreamy account of spending the whole day in bed with a lover. The title track, “Hey, Rollercoaster” uses carnival rides as metaphors for the peaks and valleys of life. One of the final tracks, “Morning Song,” is a gentle reflection on the gift of the muse and features the vocals of singer/songwriter Devon Sproule and orchestral arrangements from Amos Lee’s longtime music director, Jaron Olevsky.

In a world of chaos and instability, Ryan Tennis offers a calm, positive force to bring listeners back down to earth, forget their troubles, and breathe easy. Hey, Rollercoaster is now available for streaming on digital music platforms worldwide. Keep up with Tennis by visiting RyanTennisMusic.com and following him on Instagram at @RyanTennisMusic.

Alt-rocker Channels ‘90s Inspiration With a Sneak Peek Into His Upcoming EP

Los Angeles, CA– Indie-rock trailblazer Nice Vice has just released his latest single, “No Ends.” The new song vividly shows his inspiration from ‘90s rock icons and features melodic guitars, heavy undertones, and honest, reflective lyricism. “No Ends” is now available to stream worldwide on digital music platforms.

“No Ends” conveys to listeners the range of talent of which Seth Horst, known musically as Nice Vice, is capable. Being in your twenties is an exhilarating yet confusing time, and “No Ends” displays the personal strife of having to figure that out. Horst explores how to set boundaries, learn and maybe unlearn life habits, and simply understand how to let things be in his newest single. “‘No Ends’ went through a lot of phases,” says Horst. “The chorus of this song was originally a slower verse from another track, but after some experimenting and switching things around, it somehow turned into this! It ended up being my favorite recording process of all the songs on the EP!” Similar to his previous release, “Bloom,” the new single was also mixed by Zak Van Zeumeren and mastered by Theodore Papadopoulos. Both songs have been a thrilling look into the upcoming EP from Nice Vice, which he has described as having two main themes. “Half of the tracks deal with different stages of being in love,” explains Horst. “Some good, some bad, and just the general feeling of new love and how great that can be and then also how bad it can be. The other theme is ego death: dealing with your own personality, breaking points, and becoming someone else.” The EP, entitled First Dose, will be released later this year.

Nice Vice kicked off his music career in his hometown of Toronto but has since relocated to Los Angeles. His music appeals to both modern and classic rock fans and is reminiscent of ‘90s rock sounds, with nods to his biggest inspirations, such as Pearl Jam, Counting Crows, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Coining these beloved sounds and tailoring them to his own artistry, Nice Vice has carefully curated his unique sound. The upcoming EP was wholly written and recorded on his own over the last two years, making his sound even more personal and valuable.

“No Ends” is a reflection of introspective thinking, learning about yourself and the people around you, and the feelings those actions evoke. The song is now available to stream worldwide on all music platforms. Stay tuned for a music video, set to be released April 7th, followed by his upcoming EP, First Dose, due later this year. To keep up with Nice Vice’s journey, follow him on Instagram @NiceViceMusic.

Chicago, IL – Dream pop artist Leezy has released her latest single “Sierra,” along with an accompanying music video. The track opens with a haunting beginning, focusing on Leezy’s melancholic vocals, and slowly evolves, adding heavy instrumentation to a climax. “Sierra” is now available to stream on digital music platforms worldwide.

“Sierra” conveys to listeners Leezy’s journey to healing and acceptance. The track and video focus on the highly personal phases of recovery. “I wrote this song on the piano in the cafeteria of my rehab,” confesses Leezy. “The idea behind the song sonically was that it would reflect my journey to sobriety.” The song begins with a soft piano and an emphasis on Leezy’s angelic vocals, eventually building to a rougher and edgier sonic landscape with brooding guitars. The track moves back and forth between calmness and chaos, with sonic uneasiness depicting her struggle with addiction. The song’s final moments bring stillness to listeners, representing the beginning of the healing process. The accompanying music video, directed by Yoni Azulay, showcases her journey showing the dichotomy between the darkness and the light.

Leezy has been singing for most of her life. Her childhood was spent being closely involved in the theater and the arts. She began writing when she was ten years old; everyday ramblings started to morph into songs after her mother gifted her a piano for her 16th birthday. Not too long after, Leezy moved to Chicago where she met friend and producer NEDO, who helped bring to life some of her songs that ended up becoming her debut EP, Dear Diary. Following the record’s release, Leezy received treatment for addiction, which allowed her to build confidence and self-love and gave her the clarity and the drive to fervently chase her musical dreams. Leezy’s latest release “Sierra” is an ode to her recovery center, telling the journey towards sobriety.

“Everyone has struggled with something, and everyone can relate to the feeling of wanting to get better,” explains Leezy on how listeners can relate to the track. “Sierra” is now available to stream or download on digital music platforms worldwide. The music video is available on her YouTube channel. Make sure to stay up to date with Leezy by following her Instagram @LeezyMusic69 and Tik Tok @Leezy.

Los Angeles, CA — Los Angeles-based hip-hop cultivator, Pardyalone, has just released his new single, “Cupid.” The song features his honest perspective on the sudden, intense pain of reminiscing a past love. The track reflects the angst from vulnerability and the urgency to forge ahead of grief. “Cupid” is now available to download and stream on digital platforms worldwide.

“Cupid” is a confessional for all the sentiments built and bottled up for nearly a year in his life. This buoyant track is fused with heartbreak over the ghosts of past Valentine’s Day memories. Pardyalone brilliantly integrates his emotions of pain, lust, and confusion to create a song about the trials and tribulations of love that many can relate to their own lives. With the endless amount of songs that show the beautiful side of love, Pardyalone wanted to express the often ugly contexts of affection that are overlooked. “Love is honestly hard,” he says. “Sometimes it doesn’t work, and you’re left with nothing.” His realization in the stagnant perspective of relationships since his breakup expresses the overwhelming feelings at the moment, yet provides a glimmer of optimism for personal change in the future. Produced by Ezy, “Cupid” follows a couple of previously released singles inspired after recollecting himself late in 2021 to write about his suppressed emotions towards addiction, family issues, and love.

Kalvin Beal, known musically as Pardyalone, was born and raised in the small town of Big Lake, Minnesota, and became interested in hip-hop when he found a passion for learning the instrumentals behind his favorite tracks. He quickly went from writing to recording his own twist on an already modern sound. He credits his musical influences to Juice WRLD, Bryson Tiller, Bob Marley, amongst other R&B and alternative artists. With placements on Spotify’s official “Fresh Finds” and “Fresh Finds Hip-Hop” playlists, Pardyalone is quickly making a name for himself in the rap scene.

“Too many of us are not living our dreams because we are living our fears.” Pardyalone’s ability to uniquely express the calamity a heartbreak can cause is a true testament to who he is as a songwriter and artist. “Cupid” is now available on streaming services worldwide. To keep up with Pardyalone’s journey, follow him on Instagram @Pardyalone.

Portland, OR – Folk singer-songwriter J Nicolás has just released his latest single, “Dark Days.” The new song is a cathartic release for Nicolás, and shows how facing the skeletons in his closet with the support from another person has become a process of healing and growth. “Dark Days” is now available to stream on all digital music platforms worldwide.

With his latest song, Nicolás looks back into his personal history and the trauma that endures through the different types of his past relationships. Often, people connect with one another deeply by sharing similar experiences. Having these connections with people, especially in the case of damaging experiences, can really contribute to the growth and healing process that follows. “I got the idea for the song after reflecting on past and current relationships and the catharsis that can result in connecting with someone through suffering,” Nicolás explains. “Trauma bonding is considered unhealthy by many, but I believe there can be beauty and healing in it.” In “Dark Days,” Nicolás combines his raspy, soft vocals with traditional Americana elements like acoustic guitar and harmonica to create a balanced and peaceful folk melody. Produced by Nicolás himself, with Dave Depper on bass and mastered by Amy Dragon at Telegraph Mastering, “Dark Days” has been born from a strong and experienced group of musical talent.

J Nicolás kicked off his solo career in 2021 with his debut album Wild Oak, launching himself into a new trajectory and sound overall. Though this new folk endeavor only began last year, Nicolás has been an active contributor to the indie rock scene for over 20 years. Within those two decades, Nicolás has toured across the U.S. and internationally, played with numerous talented musicians, and procured a fanbase across two different genres of music. Nicolás’ shift to the folk world helped him display his journey of self-discovery through vivid, poetic lyricism and an element of storytelling unique to the folk genre. His upcoming sophomore album, A Rosary of Bone, dives further into his development and embraces the darker experiences he has endured, which ultimately shaped him to be the man he is today. On this upcoming release, recorded on 8-track analog tape, Nicolás impressively plays nearly every instrument on the album.

“Dark Days” is a calm display of a tumultuous sensation: being connected to someone who understands the deepest, darkest parts of you. “Dark Days” is now available worldwide on all streaming platforms. To keep up with J Nicolás and his musical journey, be sure to check out his Instagram @JNicolasMusic and his website JNicolasMusic.com.

Oklahoma City, OK – Multifaceted hip-hop producer and artist Josh Sallee has just released his newest single and music video titled  “Hollywood Hoax.” Sallee offers an introspective glance into the cruel realities of getting caught up in the stereotypical lifestyle of Hollywood and having the means to pull yourself out of it. “Hollywood Hoax” is now available to stream on digital music platforms worldwide, and the video is now available to watch on YouTube.

Leading the single is a jazzy piano intro followed by a rhythmic vocal track. Josh Sallee begins telling the story of his firsthand experience with the “Hollywood Hoax.” “I packed a backpack with my laptop, headphones, mic, a coat, and the clothes I was wearing and hopped on a one-way Spirit Airlines flight to LAX,” says Sallee. “I bought a pack of white tees, boxers, and socks and stayed on my friend’s couches. I planned on never returning to Oklahoma.” A 20 something kid with a smile and big dreams moving to a place where he had meetings with people he always dreamed of seemed like a promising future until he quickly saw the light dim from his rose-colored glasses. “Los Angeles had parts of it that were amazing and that I love dearly, but Hollywood had this dark undertone,” explains Sallee. “Nearly every time I was there, I had encounters that made me not want to return.” The self-produced track breaks down the over-glamorized lifestyle of LA and reveals Sallee’s experience with the city: exhausting all his funds in a month and becoming surrounded by people that will do anything for fame. At the end of the track, Sallee incorporates a snippet of a conversation expressing his frustration and confusion about the life he was living in LA, adding a further layer of emotional honesty and intensity to the song.

Paired with the single comes a carnival of illusion visual effects representing Hollywood directed by R3X Wonders. “We talked once over Facetime, and he told me to tell him pretty much any idea I had in my head,” explains Sallee. “Some he brushed off, some he loved (like the face on the card shot).” A golden overlay with intriguing imagery grasps the viewer’s attention as Sallee embodies different aspects of a carnival. The video is full of symbolism of the inner workings of Hollywood, such as a puppet being controlled by hands and a clown with a painted-on smile. “We’ve all heard a wild conspiracy about how Hollywood is run by elites and everything is a lie and they are controlling the population,” says Sallee. “That isn’t what this is. I think that dark feeling is attributed to all the souls that have come to Hollywood expecting to make it big or rich or whatever they dreamed of, only to be met with a city that can eat you alive if you let it.” From extravagant animals to over-the-top magic tricks, the video depicts how exciting Hollywood can be, while the lyrics highlight the somber undertone.

Based out of Oklahoma, where he spent most of his life, Josh Sallee was raised by a preacher and a public speaker, which struck him with the natural gift of performing. At first, he focused this energy on sports such as golf. Through these other passions, he eventually found his way to music. Sallee quickly developed a vast and eclectic music taste and discovered his talent for freestyling in competitions with teammates on long road trips. Developing these skills throughout high school and college, he began writing original music and performing at local rap shows and immediately knew that was where his path in life must go. Sallee went on to open for some of his inspirations such as Mac Miller, Kendrick Lamar, Schoolboy Q, and many more. He recently was hand-selected to be a part of Timbaland’s new digital-production venture, Beatclub. His song “Overdrive” was a featured record during the National Hockey League’s Stanley Cup Playoffs. Sallee’s album Hush Hush debuted at #30 on the iTunes Music Charts, with songs “Pressure” featured on NBC’s American Ninja Warrior and “Sheesh” used in the promotional hype video for the Minnesota Vikings on their playoff run campaign.

“Hollywood Hoax” is a preview into his new upcoming album and is an honest narrative of the realities that come along with the glamorized lifestyle of LA. The new track and video finely display Josh Sallee as a rapper, producer, and creative force. “Hollywood Hoax” is now available to stream worldwide, with the video available to watch on YouTube. Be sure to keep up with the journey of Josh Sallee by following him on Instagram @JoshSallee or checking out his website www.88rec.us/JoshSallee.

Tulsa, OK – Billboard charting songwriter Natalie Lauren has just released her new single, “Swoonin’.” The song reflects the whirlwind of feelings that exist between welcoming a new crush and embracing the presence of love again. Drenched in silken vocals and infectious melodies, Lauren treats audiences to a track that feels as sonically powerful as its message of permission to explore yourself and intimacy in all its forms. This is the first single from her forthcoming album  set to drop later this year. “Swoonin’” is now available to stream and download on digital platforms worldwide.

Natalie Lauren has written chart-topping music for artists including Tori Kelly, Iggy Azalea, Lecrae and Chris Brown. Lauren’s songwriting prowess is evident from her impressive and ever-growing repertoire that includes music featured on HBO’s Insecure. With “Swoonin’” she offers us music that is entirely her own, written from a place of being, audacity and radical honesty. Produced by Swoope, Hyper Violet and co-written with her writing partner WJ Lofton, “Swoonin’” encapsulates what it feels like to say yes to the present without negotiating with fear. As a black queer artist, Lauren’s music takes inspiration from James Faunteleroy, Brandy, Frank Ocean, Toni Morrison, Audre Lorde, and WJ Lofton. These inspirations have helped her find language for  her own story and take control of her narrative.

Natalie Lauren grew up in a household where the exploration of music and artistry was  encouraged. She wrote her first song at age 11 in the back of her mother’s station wagon. At 14, she started exploring production and recording with her uncle, the late Wayman Tisdale. “I’ve always been surrounded by musicians who taught me to write. In college, I lived with two gospel singers Deitrick Haddon and Damita Chandler , who really helped me shape my writing skills.” When Lauren isn’t honing her musical talents, she is sharing her prodigious gifts for painting and creative direction that echo her passion for equality, justice, and radical self-love. Lauren is the creative director for the country’s largest Junteeth celebration in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and for the upcoming Beloved Benefit in Atlanta, Georgia.

“Swoonin’” is now available to download and stream on music platforms worldwide. Keep up with Natalie Lauren as she continues to release more music by following her on Instagram @NatalieLaurenSims and TikTok @iamNatalieLauren.

Los Angeles, CA – Teen-pop singer XOHA has released her newest single, “TOO LATE.” The upbeat track highlights the angelic and robust voice of XOHA. Written from the perspective of a strong female figure, the song is interlaced with retro-contemporary beats, concealing a confident punch packed within. “TOO LATE” is now available to stream on digital music platforms worldwide.

In her newest single, XOHA explores her journey of flourishing into a more confident being by overcoming self-doubt and toxic people. “‘TOO LATE’ delivers a message to all of the people struggling with relationship issues, giving them the freedom to find their inner power and level up in their lives, leaving unnecessary people behind,” explains XOHA about the track. XOHA sings about self-development as well as the newfound strength she’s gained after freeing herself of negative energy, driving her to excel in her chosen path. Produced by Chad Bamford, the song emphasizes XOHA’s silky voice and is built up with harmonization and a lively distinct beat. The track focuses on being done with negativity, and instead choosing to rise above and continue to do what makes you happy. The title fits perfectly with the lyrics as it conveys that everyone is “too late” in an attempt to change her mind; she is going to continue singing and creating music. She will continue to grow in her confidence and strive to better herself. “TOO LATE” is a track that highlights self-love and building yourself up when others try tearing you down.

XOHA has been involved with music for most of her life. She began singing at age five, picked up the guitar at age eight, and learned how to play the piano at age 10. Her spot at one of the oldest independent schools in Los Angeles has enabled her to thrive in both the arts and academics. XOHA eventually found her love for writing and poetry, which led to songwriting. From listening to 80’s rock music with her dad to participating in choir and musicals, she pulls from a wide variety of influences. Her music has been featured by Adobe & Teardrops, Girl.com, Divine Magazine, and more.

“To all my friends out there: internalize this electric energy and become the absolute version of yourself,” exclaims XOHA. Download or stream “TOO LATE” on all digital music platforms now. Stay up to date with XOHA by following her on Instagram and TikTok @XOHAmusic.