OUT TODAY: Rlyblonde’s Debut Single Is The Ultimate ‘Fantasy’.

RLYBLONDE– the project of Brooklyn-based multidisciplinary artist Carina Allen – is making her musical debut with the release of her first single, ‘Fantasy,’ out on all streaming platforms today.

While this may be her debut as a singer-songwriter, rlyblonde is no stranger to the music industry. The New York-based twenty-something has long been the go-to photographer, videographer and creative director for numerous musicians. After years of supporting other artists and friends’ visions, she decided to put down the camera and pick up the guitar for a change.

rlyblonde’s well-established visual world is given new dimension with the launch of her music project. In addition to handling all of the songwriting and creative planning, she has also overseen the conception, production and direction of the music video (out February 17th), and collaborated with friends to plan out and shoot her own artwork and imagery.

Her introductory single, ‘Fantasy,’ flickers between gritty alt-rock and serene, melodic pop. Lyrically, the song echoes the familiar themes of heartbreak, identity and growth that can also be seen in her past self-portraiture and personal photography work.

“‘Fantasy’ is really about being frustrated with dating culture and the performances that women (especially women dating men) have to put on, almost out of necessity, until it hits a point where it all becomes too draining,” she explains. “At the same time, it’s also a song about the power of women, the power of illusion and seduction, the power of confidence, and the power of being anonymous.”

rlyblonde will be unveiling the ‘Fantasy’ music video at her debut performance at Heaven Can Wait in New York on 17th February…but for now, have a listen to the single below…

Charles On TV Releases Soul-Searching Single, ‘Quarter Century.’

New York City’s artist CHARLES ON TV gets vulnerable in his groovy, indie-pop/disco single ‘Quarter Century.’ Filled with colourful, impressionistic and soulful instrumentation, the single documents the rising artist’s internal dialogue as a quarter life crisis washes over him in waves.

On the inspiration behind the single, Charles On TV explains, “I’m sure many people can relate to the idea that sometimes, we wish we could go back and do it all over again. For me, I think about how I should have come out earlier, chose my friends more wisely, and maybe even approached my music career differently. I have been stuck in an unhealthy cycle of comparing myself to others; Instead of being encouraged by my achievements, I’ve been feeling discouraged by what I haven’t achieved. This song is the devil and angel on your shoulder, one telling you to give up and one telling you to never stop believing in your dreams.”

The single is accompanied by a stunning official video shot in Los Angeles and directed by Dylan Siegel, where Charles On TV traverse across vast landscapes, alone and on a mission to deepen his understanding of what his future has in store. These remarkable, desolate nature shots almost feel symbolic of a monk’s retreat, as he dances his way through an infinite universe searching for existential answers.

Charles On TV’s fans pour in from all over the city for his one-of-a-kind live performances, taking the stage at iconic NYC venues including the Bowery Electric, Union Pool (where he performed his debut headlining show), and Knitting Factory. An incredibly intuitive, introspective artist, Charles On TV has created a streamline of tunes with the natural ability to cross oceans and decades, and is sure to make a lasting mark on the world of music for years to come. Check out the video for ‘Quarter Century’ below…

Watch Neek Bucks’ Brand New Video For Track, ‘Red Light’.

New York rapper NEEK BUCKS released a visual yesterday for his new single ‘Red Light,’ available now on all streaming platforms via MNRK Music Group. Produced by Hitmaka and Smatt, Neek’s storytelling is fully displayed with this latest offering. His infectious hooks speak about different scenarios on how stopping at the red light can be dangerous for himself or any of his enemies.

‘Red Light’ is the follow-up to ;Mask Up’ and ‘Count On,’ featured on Neek’s debut album ‘Blessed To The Max’. The album is executive produced by GRAMMY Award winner Hitmaka and will be released on 17th February. Both Neek and Hitmaka pride themselves on the album’s production as it covers various topics, from what is happening in the streets around him to life issues. The album also features a diverse range of talents, such as Ivory Scott and Vory, mainstream acts, such as 2Chainz and Wiz Khalifa, to legendary acts, such as CeeLo Green and Raekwon.

Check out the video for ‘Red Light’ below…

Song of the Day: Special Moves – Dubby Blanco (ft. SofaKing)

New York hip-hop artist DUBBY BLANCO‘s latest single, ‘Special Moves’ is one smooth boom bap joint accompanied with dream-like lo-fi vibes that can easily put you in a trance. Featuring fellow New York rapper SofaKing, ‘Special Moves’, is a reminder to be thankful for small blessings, that comes out way, and also encourages us to live life to the fullest.

With Colombian roots, Blanco begin his career in entertainment, working as a music promoter for DJ Star’s Chub Ent, and eventually started his own promotions team called FlyBoii Ent back in 2001. Alongside running his company, Blanco also performed as a rapper, creating significant buzz in his hometown and internationally.

In 2011, he dropped his debut mixtape, ‘Blancolombia’, followed up with his 2014 EP ‘Family Trees’. 2022 saw Blanco working alongside with DJ Chase, founder of New York City-based production company Worldwide Soundz Records and the founder of DJ Chase Publishing, LLC.

According to New York City’s own DJ Chase, “Dubby Blanco is a super dope Latino Hip Hop artist with dope bars and dope beat selection; you want to get on the wave early.” Hear for yourself…why not check him out below..

New Lease Music’s Top Ten Albums Of 2022

As promised, here are the top ten albums, which received the most streams/views throughout 2022.

There’s an eclectic mix on this list – so expect some UKG, alt R&B, drill and a little something totally left-field! Enjoy!

If you missed the blog’s Top Ten Music Videos yesterday, not to worry, you can check it out HERE.

10. RESET II – OBSIDIAN CANE

9. HALF EMPTY/HALF FULL – TILLY VALENTINE

8. GREEN ROSES – SAMSON

7. CHRYSALIS – BENNY BIZZIE

6. L.I.F.E: THE CAUSE – J.A.S

5. AUDIOCITY – RAYNE STORM

4. OLÚWAMÁYỌ̀WÁ – OLOYE COLDMAN

3. TREPAC – JUICE CANNON X DICE CANNON

2. CHILL PILL – DIOR ASHE

1. I, THE COLLECTOR – 5TASH