A Quick Chat With…Richi Camarena

When I heard RICH CAMARENA‘s uniquely blissful vocals on single, ‘Promise You’, my heart immediately melted…for some reason, on the single, he reminds me of a male version of Sadè…. and for that reason alone, I had to find out more about the Mexican singer/songwriter. I’m so glad I did, as Richi comes across as one of the most lovely and genuine person I’ve interviewed on NEW LEASE MUSIC. So please sit comfortably and get ready to be acquainted with this promising upcoming artist…

NLM: Hey, thank you for taking part in an interview with NEW LEASE MUSIC. How is 2024 treating you so far?

RC: Thank you for showcasing my music. It’s been a great year so far. I’ve got featured on your blog, I released a new single that was very well received, I’m also working on an EP and there’s a music video in the works for a future song.

NLM: You released your single, ‘Promise You’ back in March. What is the public perception of the single so far?

RC: I’ve received some DMs on social media about how they are using my song to tell their loved ones how they feel. This is song is on the list of some of my most streamed songs, so, I feel very very happy.

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

RC: My girlfriend was the reason behind the lyrics, she has been an incredible support and inspiration for my music. She was the one who suggested me to start making music. And, when she went through some rough times, I wrote her this song to make her feel better, it then became the full song itself.

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

RC: It is a love song that serves as a promise for your loved ones, one that you can listen to while driving with your partner, laying down with your eyes closed, or even when proposing to the people you want to spend the rest of your life with.

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

RC: Love is as complicated as you want it to be. But, when you find the right person, loving is easy, everything just works. And, no matter how hard a situation might be, or how bad you might be feeling, the right person will always be there for you, and you will always be there for your special person.

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

RC: I thought about this at first, but I don’t think I will release a video for this song, I’m planning on doing one for a future song, but, for this one, definitely not.

NLM: If you had to feature one mainstream artist on ‘Promise You’, who would it be and why?

RC: This was a tough one, but I think Justin Bieber would be a great feature for this song.

NLM: What plans do you have in store for 2024?

RC: My intention is to release a few more singles, then an EP, an official music video and maybe, a small tour in my hometown.

NLM: How can potential fans find you?

RC: In every streaming platform they can find me as “Richi Camarena”, on social media, my handle for Instagram, TikTok and X is @richicamarena, for Facebook and YouTube is @richicamarenaofficial

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

RC: An actor for sure, I love acting, I love drama, so, maybe an actor.

Richi Camarena has a new single out called ‘That’s Okay’. Why not find out more here.

UK rapper AKS takes his flow to new levels in visualiser for ‘Let Me Explain (Wordplay Freestyle)’

British-born wordsmith, AKS (pronounced “Ay-Kay-Ess”), unveils the release of a captivating visualiser to accompany his latest single ‘Let Me Explain (Wordplay Freestyle)’. Following the positive reception since the track’s release, the three-letter man is ready to share a visually captivating experience with his growing audience.

Even before it’s official launch, ‘Let Me Explain’ had been making some waves, earning the lyricist praise from industry tastemakers like DJ Semtex (#5SongsYouNeedToKnow – Capital Xtra) and Jess Iszatt at BBC Radio London. Going on to see support from Wordplay Magazine, and catch the attention of publications such EARMILK, and Global Grind further solidifying AKS’ growing reputation both home and abroad as an artist to keep a firm eye on in the UK’s Hip-Hop scene.

Shot and directed by AKS himself, the visualiser for ‘Let Me Explain’ channels the rapper’s trademark Burgundy & Mustard aesthetic, whilst enhancing the song’s bold lyrics. Delivering a commanding performance whilst brandish a range of handwritten placards featuring supporting statements, the London rapper offers deeper insights into the song’s themes and messages. It’s a testament to AKS’ creative vision and multi-faceted talents as an artist.

In an era where independent artists are expected to go beyond just making music, AKS showcases his versatility with the self-produced visualiser. The video offers viewers a glimpse into AKS’ world, where soulful beats and thoughtful lyrics converge to create an immersive experience.

Taken from his forthcoming project ‘As Plane As Day: Departures & Arrivals’, ‘Let me Explain (Wordplay Freestyle)’ is available for streaming/download on major digital platforms and offers a welcome glimpse into the direction AKS is taking as he progresses towards the culmination of his Modes of Transport series.
Why not check out the visualiser below…

DJ Lag, Mr Nation Thingz & K.C. Driller revamp their viral hit, ‘Hade Boss’

Global sensation and Gqom trailblazer DJ LAG, along with South African sensation Mr Nation Thingz, unveil a reimagined version of their chart-topping track ‘Hade Boss’.

The original ‘Hade Boss’ garnered immense success, with over six million streams and an astounding 500 million views across digital platforms. It also amassed 350K creations and 35M likes on TikTok, solidifying its status as both a viral sensation and an anthem.

Responding to the fervent demand for more, DJ Lag, Mr Nation Thingz, and K.C Driller revisited the studio to craft the second chapter of this ground-breaking hit. The Hade Boss Re-Up features a powerhouse ensemble of South African industry giants on vocals, including DJ Maphorisa, Kamo Mphela, Robot Boii, and 2woshort, with rising star Xduppy handling production duties. This revamped rendition stays true to the essence that captured hearts across South Africa and beyond while further paying homage to DJ Lag’s unique blend of Amapiano and Gqom.

Since its teaser release on TikTok last December, ‘Hade Boss’ has sparked a global dance frenzy, amassing a dedicated fan base even prior to its official launch. Its meteoric rise saw it ascend to #2 on the YouTube Music charts, setting the stage for a monumental year ahead. Accolades include the RISA Certified Gold Record, TikTok’s certified viral status, and noteworthy nominations, including the Metro Awards’ Best Kwaito/Gqom category, while chart-topping positions on various platforms solidify its widespread appeal.

From catapulting Gqom into the global spotlight to earning industry recognition, DJ Lag continues to be a cultural luminary and trailblazer. With ‘Hade Boss’ and a headline London date at Village Underground on 26th May- his largest headline show to date – he reaffirms his status as the undisputed Gqom King, showcasing his enduring influence on the music industry.

Why not have a listen to ‘Hade Boss’ below…

OUT TODAY: listen to Handshake In Space’s single, ‘I Want Some More’

Swedish EDM artist/producer, HANDSHAKE IN SPACE is ready to shake up the music scene with his latest single, ‘I Want Some More’. The captivating track, which carries a magnetic energy, is out today (28th March) offering listeners an uplifting and danceable experience.

With an addictive chorus that reads “I want some more, want some more. I want some more, want some more of your love,” HANDSHAKE IN SPACE invites listeners on a journey of desire and passion. The song is a perfect combination of hypnotic beats and emotional intensity, and is sure to get dance floors pumping.

‘I Want Some More’ is a continuation of HANDSHAKE IN SPACE’s successful musical career and promises to be a favorite among EDM enthusiasts around the world. Why not give those speaker a good workout and have a listen below…

Song of the Day: My Why – Mumu Fresh

MUMU FRESH sings directly from the heart with ‘My Why’, which she describes as “a tribute to that person(s), place, or thing in your life that is your ‘WHY’”. The impassioned single is from her forthcoming LP The Healing, which will feature DJ Jazzy Jeff, 14KT, DJ Dummy, & more, & comes out on 19th April.

Mumu Fresh, aka Maimouna Youssef, is a Grammy Nominated singer, songwriter and emcee, and recipient of the Indigenous Music, Washington Area Music (WAMMIE) & Urban World Music Video awards. She’s worked with Busta Rhymes, Common, Black Thought of The Roots, Tobi Nwigwe & more, & has two NPR Tiny Desk performances under her belt.

Mumu also co-created the Recording Academy’s “Best Song For Social Change” trustee award, which went live in 2023 at the 66th Grammy Awards & was presented by The First Lady, Jill Biden.

Why not check out the lyric video to ‘My Why’ below…