A Quick Chat With…Ms Alisha B

MS ALISHA B, hops into the hot seat to discuss her latest single ‘What’s Done Is Done’.The promising R&B singer also shares come exciting upcoming plans for emerging artists, so why not dive in to find out more!

NLM: Hey, thank you for taking part in an interview with NEW LEASE MUSIC. How is 2026 treating you so far?

MAB: 2026 has been a very intentional year for me so far. I’ve been focusing on growth, both personally and creatively, and being more structured with how I approach my music and purpose. It feels like a year of alignment, where everything I’ve been building internally is starting to come together externally.

NLM: You released your single, “What’s Done Is Done” (10th April). What is the public perception of the single so far?

MAB: People have been saying they really like the song online, which has been really encouraging. In terms of the deeper message, I haven’t received much detailed feedback yet on how it has impacted listeners personally, but I believe that will come in time as people continue to connect with the song.

NLM: What inspired you to produce/write the single?

MAB: The original inspiration for the song came from experiences of sexual violence, and it was first written around 2016. That was the starting point. As the song developed, particularly in the second verse, co-writer Luke Grant (GKID) helped shape it into something more universal. It moved beyond one specific experience and became something that also reflects toxic or unhealthy relationships more broadly, making it more relatable to others.

NLM: How would you describe the single’s sound to potential fans?

MAB: The sound is rooted in R&B, but it carries a fusion of Gospel, soul, and subtle reggae influences. It has a smooth and reflective feel, with an edge in the melodies and rhythms that give it depth. The message is Gospel-influenced, while the sound stays soulful and relatable.

NLM: What message would you like the listeners to take away from your single?

MAB: The main message is that your past does not define your future. Whatever someone has experienced, they don’t have to carry it as their identity. The song is about release, healing, and choosing to move forward. It also points people towards the understanding that through GOD, there is always an opportunity for restoration, clarity, and growth.

NLM: Are there any plans to release an official video for the single?

MAB: We originally filmed a video for the song in 2017, but due to some issues at the time, it wasn’t released. However, I’m currently releasing an AI version of the video this month, and after my EP release, I plan to rework and release a full official version.

NLM: If you had to feature one mainstream artist on “What’s Done Is Done”, who would it be and why?

MAB: I would say H.E.R., because of her ability to express emotion and vulnerability in a very honest and soulful way. Her style would complement the depth of the message.

NLM: What plans do you have in store for 2026?

MAB: I’m currently working on my first book, “How to Write Songs From the Heart”. I’m also developing my songwriting community and preparing a compilation project for emerging artists. Musically, I’m in the early stages of working on a 5–6 track EP and focusing on releasing music intentionally this year.

NLM: How can potential fans find you?

MAB: All platforms use the same handle:
Instagram / Facebook / YouTube: @msalishabmusic

NLM: Finally, if music didn’t exist, what other profession would you do?

MAB: If music didn’t exist, I would still be doing something that involves mentoring and developing people. Teaching or coaching would naturally align with who I am.

MaryAiAnne & Me shares inspirational anthem, ‘I’ll Find The Light’ addressing depression

Singer/songwriter Maryanne – aka MARYAIANNE & ME – invites us into her world with latest single‘I’ll Find The Light’. The inspiring ballad chronicles her ongoing battle against depression and her unwavering determination to move towards for a brighter future. A moving anthem of resilience and strength over adversity, ‘I’ll Find The Light’ is now available on all major streaming platforms.

Music has always been central to Maryanne’s life. From a young age, she found joy in singing in choirs and performing. However, following experiences of abuse as a child, she became increasingly reclusive. Over the past six months, she has turned to AI music tool SUNO as a creative partner, helping her bring her songs to life in a way that fully captures the depth of her emotions and intentions. 

Since Maryanne met her manager, John Hewlett, she has found a pathway to share her voice with the world and is now able to publish her lyrics and express herself through the tracks she is creating, under the moniker, MaryAianne & Me.

Maryanne continues to prioritise her mental health and is engaged in ongoing counselling. Alongside this, her songwriting and the development of MaryAianne & Me have become a vital therapeutic outlet—not only for herself, but also for listeners facing similar challenges.

As part of her journey managing depression and anxiety, Maryanne plans to perform her singles to a live audience in the future. She’s currently taking singing lessons to fine tune her vocals.

‘I’ll Find The Light’ is out now across various music platforms

Connect with MaryAianne and Me via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581770475003
IG: https://www.instagram.com/maryaianne_and_me
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@maryaianne.and.me
YouTube: youtube.com/@itzafuni?si=RD5JVRPdkk1m4WRD

Song of the Day: God Is There – Michael Upshaw (ft. Raquel Britton)

‘God Is There’, the latest single from MICHAEL UPSHAW, featuring Raquel Britton, serves as a comforting reminder to all believers that, regardless of the challenges we encounter—be they positive or negative—He is consistently present, aware of every circumstance. He stands alone as the one who can aid and guide us through the obstacles, trials, and situations we may face in life.

Michael pulls together yet another top-notch line up who brought the single to life. With long term collaborator Mark A. Walker on bass guitar, Rakim Harris on Drums and Austin Woodlin on Keyboards and String arrangements, ‘God Is There’ blooms with breath-taking soothing soulful textures that’s soothing and comforting to the soul. Backing vocalists Gabrielle Jackson (Soprano), Gwen Jackson (Soprano), Brittany Pleasant (Soprano), Juanita Harvey (Alto), Tashanna Logan-Garrett (Alto), Janay Wilson (Alto), Jenée Shawnice Batts (Tenor), CJ Price and (Tenor), Christopher Paul Freeman (Tenor) adds emotional depth to the offering, reinvigorating for anyone in a place of darkness.

Born into a family with a rich heritage and legacy of singing and preaching the Gospel, Raquel began singing in church at the tender age of two; leading and singing solos regularly. Raquel went on to become the director of the youth choir at The Galilee Baptist Church – at the impressive age of 12. Under her leadership, the choir grew to over fifty members. Showing such achievements in her formative years, it was clear that the future was very bright for Raquel…

A firm pillar in the church community across several US states, Raquel also has a fruitful singing career. Releasing her 2018 debut single ‘I Do Worship’, Raquel has been a backing vocalist for gospel greats including Vickie Winans, Vanessa Bell Armstrong and Charles Butler. Her sweet, harmonic vocals are also a firm fixture across TV and theatre:  Raquel has sung in Broadway play Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat and provided background vocals for Tyler Perry’s I Don’t Want to Do Wrong. She also guest starred in his movie, Love Thy Neighborhood.

Michael Upshaw has an extensive career as a singer/songwriter and producer. As a featured artist, Michael soulful baritone vocals could be heard on more than 60 recording projects internationally. 

In 2012, Michael started his record label MiParis Music, which covers Smooth Jazz and Inspirational music. With regular collaborations with multi-Grammy Nominated musicians, saxophonist Gerald Albright and Producer Chris “Big Dog” Davis, the Philadelphia-based label has produced a number of well-received singles, including Mark A Walker’s instrumental ‘Duke’s Walk,’ featuring multi-Grammy award–winning trumpeter/arranger Paul Lassiter and, ‘I Love Me Too’, featuring acclaimed soul songstress Carol Roddick. A smooth jazz instrumental dedicated to the legendary George Duke, ‘Duke’s Stroll’ topped the CHBN Radio’s Playlist chart for four consecutive weeks. ‘I Love Me Too’ was met with acclaim from soul and jazz stations across the globe. For more information, please MiParis Music.

Now Michael Upshaw join forces Raquel Britton to offer solace in difficult times with ‘God Is There’, out now Apple Music and Spotify.

Connect with Michael Upshaw via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/michael.upshaw.5/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/miparismusic
Miparis Music website: https://miparismusic.com/

Connect with Raquel Britton via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/raquel.britton92
IG: https://www.instagram.com/raquelbsings/

Song of the Day: Like Dat! – Worship Yakubu

Dulo Yakubu – better known by her fans as WORSHIP YAKUBU – penned her latest single, ‘Like Dat!’ during a difficult period in her life. It’s a personal reminder that no matter what obstacles life presents, God remains a guiding light through the darkest moments – and with his love, she can do anything her heart desires.

Firmly rooted in her instantly recognisable Afrobeats sound, fused with smooth, soulful R&B flair, ‘Like Dat!’ showcases Worship Yakubu’s emotional depth and music versatility. The single is now available across all leading platforms.

Known for having distinctive vocals, Worship Yakubu gained wide recognition after her performance on Nigerian Idol, Season Ten, where she made it into the top seven and for her impressive performance, she received the gold ticket. Before that, she won SAVE 2019 and Shabbat 2019, placed in the top ten for Big Break Moments in Africa, and has received several awards along the way.

Her stage name – Worship Yakubu – comes from her ability to connect deeply with people from all walks of life. Her motto is simple but powerful: her love is not just a song; it’s a testament to her belief in spreading love and positive vibrations through her music – and that love connects with so many people because it reminds them that, no matter what they’re going through, there is someone out there who genuinely loves them.

A powerful reflection of her strength and resilience, ‘Like Dat!’ is available for your pleasure across all leading platforms.

Connect with Worship Yakubu via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/worshipyakubu
IG: https://www.instagram.com/officialworshipyakubu

OUT TODAY: Stefanie Michaela says ‘Anything Is Possible’ in new single.

Singer-songwriter Stefanie Michaela drops her new single and music video, ‘Anything Is Possible,’ a fearless statement about risk, heart, and self-belief. Co-written with legendary hitmakers Steve Dorff (Songwriters Hall of Fame; three-time Grammy and six-time Emmy nominee) and Michael Jay (sold over 75 million records worldwide; co-wrote and produced Martika’s worldwide #1 hit Toy Soldiers; and penned Declaration of Love for Celine Dion’s Grammy-winning Falling Into You), and produced by Grammy-winning Keith Thomas (Selena, Amy Grant, Vanessa Williams), the track, featured on Stefanie’s upcoming EP Turning Pages, pushes listeners to chase dreams, take bold chances, and believe in their own power to shape their future. The true complexity of the song lies in its simplicity, the purity of its message mirrored by the elegant, heartfelt writing and the music video’s understated yet deep

From the very first note, ‘Anything Is Possible’ captures the heart with its uplifting melody and heartfelt lyrics. Stefanie’s vocals carry a rare warmth and clarity that draws listeners in, inviting them to connect with their own dreams and aspirations. The song is both intimate and expansive, a reflection of the universal courage it celebrates. “Working with Steve Dorff has been an incredible honor,” Stefanie says. “His ability to blend emotion and melody is something I deeply admire as both a songwriter and an artist. Collaborating with Michael Jay feels effortless; he knows exactly how to shape a song so it connects deeply while still sounding fresh and timeless.”

“No matter where you are in life, you can always write the next chapter,” Stefanie says. “Believe to achieve—that’s where the magic begins.” The song encourages listeners to embrace uncertainty, pursue their passions, and trust themselves enough to try. She adds, “The real magic is knowing you have the power to turn a thought into a destiny. Believing in yourself is the first spark.”

The lyrics of ‘Anything Is Possible’ reflect this message: “Every day can be a brand new chapter / Just keep turning the pages / You’ll find what your heart’s been after / You gotta take the risk and face it… Don’t be afraid to fall / When you open your wings / Let your heart sing / You’ll find ANYTHING… IS POSSIBLE.” Stefanie’s words remind listeners that pursuing dreams, taking risks, and embracing the unknown are all part of the journey to fulfilment.

The music video brings this message to life through a warm, storybook lens. Stefanie flips through an old scrapbook and discovers a photograph of her younger self with a ballerina music box. As she gazes at the photo, it magically transforms into a living scene: the ballerina, bound by the shackles of life’s limitations, begins to break free. The little girl’s desire and passion to bring the ballerina to life finally take flight, filling the room as delicate fairy wings appear. Dressed in a glittering gown and adorned with soft, shimmering wings, the little girl embodies the pure wonder and magic of childhood.

As the video progresses, Stefanie herself appears, dressed in a flowing floor-length gown with opalescent wings and a delicate crown, stepping seamlessly into the story she has carried from her youth. “Magic isn’t fantasy—it’s focus, heart, and belief. Anything is possible when you trust yourself enough to try,” Stefanie explains. By the final chorus, she delivers her performance with the same wonder and determination, showing viewers that belief in oneself is the spark that starts every dream.

Stefanie recently partnered with City Winery Nashville on her latest single, ‘Better With Time,’ to curate her own hand-selected wines for fans, offering a chance to win exclusive packages. She has also performed live at renowned venues including The Hotel Cafe and The Mint LA, bringing her live performances to audiences across the country.

‘Anything Is Possible’ is out today (21st November) across all leading platforms. Why not check out the video below…

Connect with Stefanie Michaela via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555524656282
IG: https://www.instagram.com/stefaniemichaelamusic/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stefaniemichaelamusic?
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StefanieMichaelaVEVO
Website: https://www.stefaniemichaela.com/

Source: Dead Horse Branding PR