Backed by the likes of BBC 1Xtra on previous releases, and the original version of On My Way being chosen as BBC Introducing track of the week, Urban Pop singer-songwriter REBECCA JAMES is back with On My Way, the Gifted remix, featuring rapper V Simmons.
The Welsh popster is determined to show off her versatility with this remix. Her playful yet prominent than ever vocals blend with the trap style synths and compliments this more gritty version of the single with charm and bold expression.
After lining up on stage next to some of the UK’s biggest artists at The Wembley Arena and completing her own national schools tour, this has already been an impressive year for the quirky princess, and with her mixtape due out November 2015 as well as other exciting things planned for 2016, it would be best to keep an eye on REBECCA JAMES for the coming year.
On My Way (Gifted Remix) will be available from November 23rd via her website.
Her singles Superstar Supernova and Hoopla were one of the most listened tracks on NEW LEASE MUSIC this year. Now GENA PERALA recently released the music video to her single, Fat World…but before you check it out, come and get to know this Canadian singer/songwriter.
NLM: You just released the video to single, Fat World (very cool production btw!). Although your effort has the fun factor, it also has a message of reckoning and accepting your personal insecurities. Are you hoping that Fat World will be the anthem for young girls to overcome society’s idea of the ‘perfect body image?
GP: Yes the Video was fun! And thanks for the props! Keep in mind though that the song is as much about sex as it is about body image. I think it’s important that we as a culture get more comfortable hearing women talk about sex but I wouldn’t say the song is anthem worthy especially for young girls. It’s also about being honest with yourself and accepting who you are, bad choices and all. I fear the sarcasm and irony might get lost on some people as well. Having said that, if this song helps anyone overcome society’s pressure to look a certain way then I’d feel great about that.
NLM: The single is coming from your 2014 album Exactly Nowhere. What’s the reception been like on the album so far?
GP: I’d say the reception has been really good. Unfortunately it’s been quite small. I’m pretty unknown but my experiences touring the album were amazing. It appealed to all demographics and genders, which was a huge measure of success for me. Some people have a hard time understanding the scope of the album thinking I’ve combined too many genres and I get that. I personally hear a cohesiveness but it’s definitely more conceptual cohesiveness than every song having the same sound. So that’s been a bit of a challenge. I would like to see Canadian radio supporting it more as well as my own city of Vancouver. I’m enjoying making videos for all the songs that’s for sure! And the videos are being received really well however small the scope.
NLM: Out of interest, what’s your favourite track on the album and why?
GP: I don’t think I have a favourite track. I like to say “they’re all my children” but there are certain things that I really love about certain songs. Fine is so simple and hauntingly pretty and the opening verse is quite perfect if you know the story behind it. Hip Hop and Cartoons means a lot to me. There’s the shock value of course but it also expresses my respect and gratitude to Hip Hop and to shows like The Simpsons and South Park for speaking hard truths in a way people can hear. Life is hard is one of my favourites lyrically and of course Exactly Nowhere, for many reasons, one being that it brought me my album title.
NLM: You’ve been described as a cross between country singer/songwriter Jewel and electro punk singer/producer Peaches (personally New Lease Music think you’re the 21st century version of Tori Amos). Have you had any other comparisons?
GP: Wow, thank you. I’m honoured to be compared to all those talented women and yes I’ve been compared to a lot of people actually. None of which have been insulting. I think the Jewel meets Peaches description just communicates well. The lyrical singer songwriter meets the shocking unapologetic conceptual artist.
NLM: Who are your musical (or non-musical) influences?
GP:Many many influences. From Folk artists to Pop and R&B, Trap, Soul, Hip Hop – So many influences. Poetry is also a big one.
NLM: If you were to collaborate with just ONE chart-topping artist of today, who would it be?
GP: Ok so I had to go to the billboard charts to see what my options were and the stand outs that I would want to collaborate with because I think we could make the best music together are: Shrillex and Diplo, Drake, Ed Sheeran and The Weeknd. I think I’m going to go with Shrillex and Diplo but if Drake calls, I’m ready.
NLM: So what are your plans for 2015 and beyond? Do you have any upcoming gigs?
GP: I am currently in the studio recording my next album. I also have an electronic collaboration I’ve been working on that I’m loving and my band Tomgirl is probably going to work on a new EP as well. I’m also going to continue making videos so expect to keep seeing those.
London-based singer and musician MELANIE CREW released her first ever EP, Until The End just ten days ago!
The guitarist and clarinet player displays all the qualities of honing in potential listeners with the soothing presence of the lone acoustic guitar with sugary sweet and angelic vocals. It’s definitely a winning combination which somehow puts me in the mind of a lighter and chirpy version of Joni Mitchell. You’ll be a fool if you pass up on this six-track EP…go on, take time out and have a listen.
#TheMustListens: Hiding Away, Do You Know, Waiting For Someone.
Determined to bring the sound of the future, experimental pop duo STICKY BLOOD have dropped a striking visual for single, Professional, the first release from their debut EP, ID.
Featuring upcoming singer Hekky, the deep, spine-chilling number has received support from NME, it make Record Of The Day’s ‘Record Of The Day’ and Charlie Sloth was quick to bag the premiere for his show on BBC 1Xtra.
Since its inception last Thursday, the video receive over 6K views on YouTube.
FITTY SMALLZ must be beaming with glory right now. Since its inception back in April, the video to his breakthrough single, Hamburger, Fries & Shakes has received over 1 million views on YouTube…hit the play button now and you’ll see why…or maybe not.
New Lease Music 