Category: new singles

Afrobeat Sensation YXL Ayo unveils alluring love note, ‘Easy’

Produced and engineered by the illustrious Super Beats (Skeete, IAMDDB), YXL AYO‘s highly anticipated single, ‘Easy,’ takes listeners on an alluring journey navigating the complexities of modern love and desire. The track tells a vivid story of a woman eager to leave her troubled past behind, seeking salvation from our protagonist who, in turn, questions her true intentions with the poignant refrain, “Tell me why you want me to save you.”

YXL Ayo skilfully blends the rich textures of Alté with the smooth, emotive vibes of R&B. Super Beats’ production provides an intentionally minimalistic soundscape, creating space for Ayo’s introspective lyrics and evocative vocals. The track delves into the nuances of romantic pursuit and the yearning for genuine connection, challenging listeners to discern the difference between true affection and the desire for rescue.

Available on all major streaming platforms from last Thursday (27th June), ‘Easy’ is set to solidify YXL Ayo’s rising status in the Alté and Afro-R&B scene, as he delivers this irresistible record. Have a listen to the beauty below…

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Birmingham Artist Lyco Returns With New Single ‘Crème De La Crème’ ft. Camidoh

The UK and Africa come together for a beautiful blending of sounds for LYCO and CAMIDOH‘s new single ‘Crème de la Crème’.

Nigerian born, UK raised singer/songwriter Lyco has been steadily releasing singles such as ‘Ice N Rum’ and ‘Gucci’ with artists such as Lotto Boyzz, Sneakbo, Ivorian Doll and 2Face, building a reputation for his melodic, smooth tracks.

His new single is a flavoursome, sexy, Summer sizzler with Lyco and Camidoh bringing Afrobeats vibes. Weaving in-between lyrics smoothly for a beautiful, mesmerising single, the two artists vocals fit perfectly together.

Lyco says on the track: “Creme de la Creme is a double edge sword. On one hand to the listener that isn’t paying full attention and is just enjoying beautiful melodies it’s a light-hearted summer song. On the other hand those who really take in what I’m saying will immediately feel the sensual nature of the adult themes I’m trying to describe with nuance. Truly the best of both worlds.”

LYCO is a multi-genre singer-songwriter hailing from Birmingham, United Kingdom. Being Nigerian born LYCO has been able to concoct beautiful new dramatic flavours into Afrobeat universe. He has written for the likes of Steff London, Ivorian Doll and Birmingham’s own Lotto Boyzz.

LYCO has also found massive success on the Tik Tok platform amassing over 100,000 followers through his comedy and documentary skits which has expanded his fanbase globally preparing the way for international success on all fronts.

Former known from Birmingham’s “LYCO X WXYNE” duo, LYCO has branched out in pursuit of a solo career to further express and deliver ground-breaking melodies that will transcend the Afrobeats movement both locally and abroad.

Listen to ‘Crème de la Crème’ below…

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The reveal of HANDSHAKE IN SPACE: Stefan Halling, the Anonymous Swedish EDM artist

“I lift the lid on my mental illness and in some way I hope I can help others.”

The identity behind the anonymous Swedish EDM artist HANDSHAKE IN SPACE has been revealed. The artist is none other than Stefan Halling, born in 1967 in Huddinge, Stockholm and now living in Rättvik.

The news spread after his daughter Nathalie posted a video on social media some time ago in which she talks about his inspiring mental journey over the past four years.

Four years ago, at the beginning of the pandemic, Stefan Halling was hit by several major difficulties. He first lost his father and shortly afterwards his job. These losses resulted in a long period of deep depression, panic attacks and dark thoughts. For a while the future seemed uncertain and very dark to Stefan.

Despite this difficult period, two years ago Stefan started creating music together with other creative people. Through music, he found a way to express his feelings and process his experiences. With the support of close friends and his dear family, he has slowly but surely regained his well-being and is now in a much better place in life.

In her video, daughter Nathalie shares the mental journey her father has undergone and points out how important it is to talk about mental illness in order to reduce the stigma surrounding it and supporting those who struggle.

Only now does Stefan feel that he is mature enough to start talking about his experiences and highlight the importance of seeking help when you feel bad. Through his music and his story, Stefan hopes to inspire others and show that there is hope even in the darkest moments.

Stefan Halling, under the pseudonym HANDSHAKE IN SPACE, has touched many with his music and his story is a strong example that it is possible to get through difficult times with support and creativity.

To check out HANDSHAKE IN SPACE’s discography, head right here.

Follow HANDSHAKE IN SPACE via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/handshakeinspace
IG: https://www.instagram.com/handshake_in_space
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@handshakeinspace

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Handshake In Space captures friendship and magical moments of summer in single, ‘You’re My Cheerleader’.

HANDSHAKE IN SPACE, the prominent Swedish EDM artist, is back with a new single that promises to rock the summer. ‘You’re My Cheerleader,’ with its infectious rhythm and memorable lyrics, is released last Wednesday, (19th June) and offers an uplifting and energetic experience for all music lovers.

The new single tells a story of love and friendship, with lyrics that capture the essence of the magical moments of summer, delivering a sonic masterpiece that transcends boundaries and captures the essence of love in its purest form. The track’s infectious energy and uplifting melodies are sure to leave a lasting impression on listeners, reaffirming HANDSHAKE IN SPACE’s position as a trailblazer in the world of EDM.

With their distinctive sound and strong songwriting, HANDSHAKE IN SPACE promises that ‘You’re My Cheerleader’ will be the anthem of the summer. The single will be available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon Music. Have a listen below…

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OUT TODAY: Katrin-Merili puts her blend of Nordic Nu-Soul on the map with ‘Hold My Body’.

Paris-based, Estonian soul artist KATRIN-MERILI announces her debut EP ‘Beautiful Things’ with her new single ‘Hold My Body’, which is out today (20th June). She captures the soulful energy of Yebba, Sade and Cleo Sol, weaving her vocal around a future-facing instrumental to create a distinctive brand of Nordic neo-soul.

‘Hold My Body’ reflects on a long distance relationship, and the power of love to surpass geographical boundaries. Katrin explores the sacrifices that are made when in love, and the hunger for connection and patience needed to see things through. Alt-RnB lyrical flows are balanced with bopping grooves, euphoric synths and a gospel-inflected harmonic flavour, capturing the butterflies in the stomach and thrill of falling in love. Katrin shares: “I started composing this song on a friend’s guitar that was left in my apartment. The chords stuck with me, and gave it so much warmth when I produced the first draft. It took on a life of its own when I played it with my live band, and became the song you can hear today.”

Slated for release in 30th August, ‘Beautiful Things’ is a project consisting of five intimate stories centred around femininity, identity, and mental health, touching upon Katrin’s experience of being split between two countries, and supporting her mother through her battle with breast cancer. Due to the deeply personal subject material, Katrin wanted to be as involved as possible across the project, creating her own visual world to accompany the music, she shares: “I decided to self-produce the EP independently to be able to follow through with my original vision and to make something really personal. I am fully present in all the aspects of the creation, from writing the lyrics to styling, MUA, self-portraits, artworks and collages. Every song is a personal piece of my life and an invite to join me on my journey of self-discovery.”

A rising name in the Parisian soul-jazz crossover scene, Katrin has spent the last eight years in the French capital collaborating and building a name for herself, supporting the likes of Roy Ayres at the revered New Morning jazz club. Her path in Paris led to her meeting co-producer Sacha Arnaud, who was able to help Katrin bring her musical vision to life alongside the vibrant presence of talented French musicians including Noé Berne (Nine Sparks Riot) and Remi Klein (Voyou).

Taken from the ‘Beautiful Things’ EP, set for release on Friday 30th August, ‘Hold My Body’ was
released today (20th June) across various music platforms. Why not have a listen below…

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