Jon Bellion Returns with "Horoscope" Featuring Pharrell Williams and Announces New Album Father Figure
After a six-year hiatus from solo projects, Jon Bellion has made a triumphant return with his latest single, "Horoscope," featuring the legendary Pharrell Williams. Released today, April 18, 2025, the track marks the opening of Bellion's forthcoming album, Father Figure, set to debut on June 4, 2025.
"Horoscope" showcases the seamless blend of Bellion's introspective lyricism and Pharrell's signature production flair. The track delves into themes of destiny and self-discovery, setting a contemplative tone for the album. Bellion has described "Horoscope" as an "intro song to an intro song," likening it to the acknowledgments section of a book—a prelude that offers gratitude and sets the stage for the narrative to unfold.
The album features collaborations with artists like Luke Combs and Jon Batiste, indicating a diverse musical journey. Early singles such as "Kid Again" and "Wash" have already given fans a glimpse into the album's depth and Bellion's matured sound.
In a recent interview, Bellion revealed that he began working on Father Figure in early 2024, marking a significant shift in his artistic direction. He also shared that he had ended his previous recording contract, choosing to take full creative control of his music. This decision underscores the personal significance of Father Figure, both as an artistic endeavor and a statement of independence.
With the release of "Horoscope" and the announcement of Father Figure, anticipation is building among fans alike. Bellion's return promises a thoughtful and genre-defying experience that reflects his growth as an artist. Personally, June 4 can’t come soon enough.
Jaret Kline - Dogwood
Jaret Kline's latest single, "Dogwood," is an exploration of grief and healing, marking a significant moment in his artistic journey. Written approximately four years ago in his bedroom, the song served as a means for Kline to process the deep wounds of a past relationship.
"Dogwood" delves into the complexities of loss and the path to recovery. Kline's heartfelt lyrics and emotive delivery create an intimate atmosphere, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences with heartache and resilience.
The song features a minimalist arrangement, allowing Kline's vocals to take center stage. The gentle instrumentation complements the emotional weight of the lyrics, creating a soothing yet powerful listening experience.
Kline's candid approach to songwriting fosters a deep connection with his audience. By sharing his personal journey through "Dogwood," he offers solace to those navigating similar emotional landscapes.
To experience "Dogwood" and explore more of Jared Kline's work, visit his Spotify or follow him on Instagram. His music is a testament to the healing power of art and the shared human experience.
Artist Spotlight: Nami - Heaven
Another artist has come across my radar while scrolling TikTok — and this might be my favorite yet. Nami, an LA-based songwriter, has recently launched his artist project, and his new single “Heaven” is a standout introduction to his sound.
The track showcases his seasoned songwriting and refined taste. His recent string of singles blends warm, vintage-toned guitars with bright, soft vocals. There’s an undeniable rhythm and tone to his delivery that evokes a young Michael Jackson. “Heaven” highlights his emerging style and hints at the sonic direction for his upcoming project.
After digging a bit deeper, I found that Nami has been behind the scenes for a while, penning songs for heavy hitters like Ariana Grande, Jack Harlow, and Sam Smith. Most notably, he was a songwriter and producer on Ariana Grande’s certified platinum hit “Positions.”
Beyond the music, his website, Instagram, and overall visual branding are incredibly polished and intentional. It’s clear he’s not just a musician, but a well-rounded creative. With his debut rollout, Nami is stepping confidently into the spotlight — and I have a feeling the world will be getting very familiar with him, very soon.
LAUREL Live at The Roxy on Sunset Blvd
I first discovered LAUREL’s music two years ago through a slowed and reverb version of “Scream Drive Faster” on YouTube. Since then, this LA-based British artist has slowly but surely become one of my favorite female vocalists.
Over time, I’ve fallen in love with tracks like “45 Degrees” and her latest release, “F***ing You to Death.”
As someone who really appreciates a strong vocal, her live show was a 10 out of 10 for me. While her speaking voice and demeanor are soft and calm, her vocals are incredibly powerful and controlled. It’s like a fusion of Miley Cyrus and Ellie Goulding—a mesmerizing hybrid of strength and tone.
I didn’t recognize about half of the songs in her set, but it didn’t matter. I was completely drawn in by the performance and the connection she created with the room. She held my attention from start to finish. I’ll definitely be marking my calendar for her next show in Los Angeles.
“F***ing You to Death” has quickly become a standout in her discography. With tone-driven guitars that feel similar to what we’re seeing from artists like Mk.gee, it’s a darker track with a beautiful build and dynamic push and pull. Not many vocalists can carry a song with no drums—but she’s a rare exception.
She gives off a Lana Del Rey vibe, but darker, and with an even more powerful vocal presence. LAUREL is officially a new favorite of mine, and if she’s performing in your city anytime soon, I highly recommend grabbing a ticket.
Artist Spotlight: Graham Bright & 13 Reasons
Photo from instagram @grahambright
One of the things I absolutely love about TikTok is how easy it makes discovering genuine talent. Graham Bright is a perfect example of that. I came across his music just 12 hours ago, and I already feel compelled to write about him. While I may be missing some background details, what immediately caught my attention was the honesty and uniqueness in his sound.
His song 13 Reasons showcases an indie vibe with bright guitars and a songwriter approach to an impressive build of the record (Produced by Jack Gulielmetti). But what really stands out are the lyrics—thoughtful, vulnerable, and real. According to his TikTok, Graham labels his genre as "Folk Rap," which feels fitting. It's an intriguing blend that allows him to fuse acoustic instrumentation with introspective storytelling.
Lyrically, Graham dives into themes of lust, dating, and the search for deeper meaning—a reflection, it seems, of what many in his generation are navigating. He explores the idea of moving beyond temporary pleasure in pursuit of something lasting, someone who truly sees him. One line that stuck with me is his repeated mantra: “turning my hurting to healing.”It speaks to his desire for growth and positive change.
What I admire most is his willingness to wear his heart on his sleeve. His music feels like an open journal, and that kind of emotional honesty is both rare and refreshing. I think what Graham is doing is unique, original, and deeply compelling. I’m looking forward to hearing more from him and connecting down the line.
Marc E Bassy, Nic Nac & G-Eazy Release Massive Single
The first time I heard Marc E. Bassy had to be on a 2AM Club record —maybe back in 2010, though don’t quote me on the year. Regardless, Bassy has been an artist I’ve long considered one of the most overlooked vocalists, creatives, and songwriters of my generation. His vocal range, songwriting ability, and versatility have been evident for over a decade—whether it’s through countless features across genres or the sonic variety throughout his album releases.
Marc E. Bassy and G-Eazy, both hailing from the Bay Area, have maintained a friendship and creative connection over the years. “Slide” isn’t their first collaboration, and it’s clear their work compliments each other. The track is produced by Nic Nac, a longtime collaborator of Bassy’s and a heavyweight in the hip-hop production game. Nic Nac’s résumé includes hits like DJ Khaled & Justin Bieber’s “I’m the One” and Chris Brown’s “Loyal”—and that’s just scratching the surface.
“Slide” delivers a soulful vibe, highlighted by an incredible vocal performance from Bassy, and G-Eazy’s signature storytelling on the second verse. Lyrically, Bassy touches on themes of commitment, showing both sonic and personal maturity. It’s a refreshing direction, and I’m hoping we hear more of this style in the months ahead—especially if it means more collaborations between Bassy and Nic Nac.
Beyond his work as an artist, Marc E. Bassy has been steering his own independent label, New Gold Medal, which includes standout acts like The Army, The Navy (who deserve their own write-up— they’re amazing).
This April and May, Bassy is hitting the road for a U.S. tour with support from Goody Grace. You can stream “Slide” on all platforms—and if this record is any indication, we’ve got a lot to look forward to from Marc E. Bassy this summer.
Cody Bolan sets wave of bi-weekly release campaign
Multi-genre songwriter Cody Bolan has officially launched a campaign to release new music every two weeks through July. Bolan, who began making waves in the rap scene, has been actively releasing music for the past five years. Since 2019, he’s expanded his range, collaborating with artists across the country—including members of the Shaboozey camp—and experimenting with a wide spectrum of genres.
His most recent release is a prime example of his versatility: a House EDM track featured on a label release that played during the F1 Racing events a few months ago.
Having personally seen Bolan work, I’ve gained some insight into his creative process—and it’s clear that the music he’s set to drop over the next few months is deeply rooted in his growth as both a producer and songwriter. His process often starts with a loop or an idea from his Seattle-based producer and engineer, Remixz. From there, Bolan builds around a melody or pocket, crafting themes and lyrics that give the track its emotional and sonic identity. He works quickly, with a well-developed ear for what resonates with him.
The first track of this campaign, “Two Sides,” is a strong representation of his evolving sound. Bolan not only produced and engineered the track himself, but also performed the vocals—resulting in a cohesive and authentic experience that feels uniquely his. Remixz, who plays a key role in most of Bolan’s projects, brings years of experience to the table and is steadily becoming a recognized name in the industry, particularly in creative circles around LA and Nashville.
“Two Sides” is a standout among the upcoming releases and a personal favorite of mine. You can find it on all major streaming platforms.
RYMAN delivers beautiful record “Lucy”
Scrolling through my TikTok feed earlier this week, I stumbled upon RYMAN, an artist who immediately caught my attention. His latest release blends easy-listening sonics with a country-infused sound, delivering the expansive, atmospheric quality that defines a great ballad. Featuring elements like steel pedal, lead guitar, and thoughtfully crafted lyrics, the track creates an immersive and heartfelt listening experience.
RYMAN hails from Nashville, TN—now a hotspot for songwriters and the birthplace of many major records in both the country and pop scenes. His song Lucy was produced by Calvin Lauber, a recently relocated Nashville-based producer. According to Instagram, Lauber played a key role in the song’s production and engineering, shaping its polished yet raw emotional depth.
This was my first introduction to RYMAN, but after diving into his recent releases, it’s clear he has found his stride with this airy, country-pop sound and his honest, detail-rich storytelling. Looking forward to seeing what’s next from Mr. Wooten out of Nashville.
Joan reveals fourth track on Project “Face”
Joan is one of those artists who have had singles lingering on my playlists for years, yet I never took the time to dive deeper into their music. I vividly remember first discovering them while living in Chicago when I stumbled upon "Drive All Night." Instantly, I was drawn to their warm tone and unique sound.
The Arkansas-based duo has now released their fourth track, "Face," from what appears to be an upcoming project. True to their signature style, the song features retro-inspired keys and a Phil Collins-esque atmosphere, solidifying Joan's distinctive sound. Of the four recently released songs, "Face" stands out as my favorite, alongside "Eyes"—a stripped-down ballad that builds into a powerful outro.
Time and again, Joan proves their place in the pop landscape with consistently high-quality music and a well-defined artistic brand. I'm excited to hear the full project and hopefully catch them live in Los Angeles soon.
Quickly, Quickly releases soulful bright track “Take It From Me”
I first discovered Quickly, Quickly on my SoundCloud feed a while back, and his music immediately stood out. It’s rare to find such detailed production with live instruments in the pop space, but that’s exactly what makes self-produced artists so compelling. His sound is incredibly original, and the warm, bright textures of his mixes make each track feel immersive.
It looks like a new project is in the works, with two other singles—Enything and Raven—already released as part of the rollout. Take It From Me particularly stands out, with its airy, delicate piano carrying the energy of the track. Graham Jonson (Quickly, Quickly’s real name) has quickly become one of my favorite producers, thanks to his meticulous attention to detail and distinct style.
I’m not sure where he’s based, but he’s definitely an artist to watch. Stream Take It From Me on all platforms—you won’t be disappointed.
You can find his instagram @quicklyquickly
Vwillz & mike. collaborate on “Central Park”
Vwillz and Mike have released a song that truly captures a feeling. Both artists share a similar sound they’ve been pioneering, and their second record together is no exception—I’m thoroughly enjoying it. The hook is massive, and the unique arrangement blends DnB drums with a guitar loop, making for a fresh and original production.
Mike’s growth as a songwriter is especially evident in his second verse. He fully leans into his sound, giving the track space and emotion, letting it unfold naturally. This song has an undeniable presence—one that feels big and will likely become one of their more recognizable records, whether intentional or not.
Amazing work.
Appleby Releases New Single “Without You”
I kept seeing this record pop up on my TikTok feed and, at first, I scrolled past it without much thought—probably five or six times. But over the course of a week, I found the melody stuck in my head. The hook is incredibly infectious, and the overall sound is fantastic. Fast forward two weeks, and this has become my most-played song—a testament to how consistent promotion can work wonders for artists.
Appleby appears to be rebranding with a fresh sound after a long break from releasing music. He’s been relentlessly promoting this track to prove that the hype is real and that it has mainstream pop potential. His promotional efforts have even caught the attention of Joe Jonas and Timbaland—the latter reacting with pleasant surprise while listening to the track on his livestream.
Personally, I love the pace and energy of this record, as well as its hopeful and positive message. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye on Appleby to see what he releases next.
Find Appleby’s Socials Here
https://www.instagram.com/applesgotit/
https://www.tiktok.com/@applesgotit?lang=en
Jack & Jack Release Soulful Single “Home”
Jack & Jack release another single making this the sixth or so (could be wrong) single they’ve let loose in the past twelve months. Brandon Arreaga of PRETTYMUCH lead production which has seen to be a theme for him lately. It also appears he has been producing, writing, and overall did all of the production for PRETTYMUCH’s last album they put out.
Jack & Jack released a single some months ago titled “September’s Gone” which I thought to be very impressive (as with this single) with nice flow and unexpected melodies. To my knowledge it appears Jack Johnson has been getting more involved with production over the years and I’m sure is creating most ideas from scratch. I Really enjoy watching their journey navigating the industry from major label artists to self producing independent artists. I hope to hear more from them soon and I believe they’re going on a US tour this spring.
Johan Lenox Releases New Single “All My Fault”
Producer, composer & songwriter Johan Lenox released single “All My Fault” on Friday 1/20. The song begins with a heavy string section as he’s known to feature in lots of music he produces. You can hear his production featured in music outside of his own for artists such as Travis Scott, Kanye West, and 070 Shake.
Zack Djurich, Julianne Hope, & Jacob Paul all assisted with production of the track. Johan has such a great track record of making songs that sound unique and big at the same time. He’s one of my favorite artists I’ve found in the past few years and his new records (previous release “Forever’s Not That Long”) have been personal favorites. Hopefully an album is around the corner with both records on the project.
You can follow Johan on everything at @JohanLenox and I would dive into his discography if you’re new to him, I think you’ll find tons of great new music.
You can find all of his social links below: