A Quick Chat With…Peter Lord

Introducing – or should I say – reintroducing PETER LORD. He’s the founding member of the genre-defying collective The Family Stand who helped shape the sound of generations with genre-defiant classics like ‘Chain’, ‘Moon in Scorpio’, ‘Connected’, and the timeless anthem ‘Ghetto Heaven’.

Now the trailblazing artist makes a powerful return with ‘BOOM,’ the explosive first single from his long-awaited solo album, ‘Songs From The 8th Dimension’, set for release next month, 29th August.

NLM: Hey, thank you for taking part in an interview with NEW LEASE MUSIC. It’s such a pleasure having you here. How is 2025 treating you so far?

PL: 2025 has been excellent. I have reconnected with the musical/sonic side of my creative instincts. During the last decade plus I have been primarily focused on the film and TV/streaming projects that I have written and am developing.

NLM: You recently released your single, ‘BOOM’ (on 4th July)’. What is the public’s perception of the single so far?

PL: The reaction has been extremely positive and receptive. And I have truly appreciated the fact that despite my recent inactivity in the music world, my new project feels relevant, and has resonated with new audiences, in addition to those who knew my music before.

NLM: What inspired you to produce the single?

Well the single “Boom”, as was, as all the songs on the album, were part of a musical TV/Streaming series I’ve written called “Love Junkies.” While that long process is still underway to bring it to the screen, I felt these songs also stood up on their own and needed to be heard.

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

PL: I would say it’s an electric mix of modern music, with elements, of rock, hip hop, soul, “alternative pop’, grounded in story telling through song. It ties together one’s personal/emotional battles with those struggles going on in the world as a whole. Each of us often forget the lessons learned previously in our lives, as the world and various societies often do… and then everything goes “Boom.” – exploding, with consequences we subsequently have to deal with, and find hard to control.

NLM: Back in the 90s, you were with The Family Stand, which was one of the groups that helped re-shaped modern soul, R&B and hip-hop. How do you compare your sound now with The Family Stand?

PL: I would say the thematic elements are the same, in terms of the stories I want to tell, but sonically and creatively I refuse to stay stuck. I’m not trying to bring back the 90’s or early 2000’s. I am not trying to be nor am I “old school” anything.

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

PL: No message. I only hope the listener resonates with what’s being said, lol and unsaid, and find their own “message” that serves them in a way that awakens their “higher self” and a deeper, truer, perception of themselves in this dimension of existence.

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

PL: One of my musical heroes, one who just passed, Sly Stone, and my childhood creative north star, Stevie Wonder.

NLM: So what are your plans for the rest of the year?

PL: To support and put out my new album “Songs From The 8th Dimension.” Which will include putting out at least two more singles. I may even do a few “unplugged. performances” I’ll post on social media. And I will continue to work on my TV & Film projects.

NLM: How can potential fans contact you?

PL: The best place is INSTAGRAM.

NLM: Finally, if music did not exist, what profession would you do?

PL: I would be an ASTROPHYSICIST! Or pro pickleball player. F it BOTH! LOL

A Quick Chat With…Amity

I was absolutely blown away by singer-songwriter AMITY‘s first appearance on the blog with compelling ballad, ‘Bite Me! which claimed the Song of the Month back in April.

Amity is more than just a musician – I like to call him the ‘singing advocate’ as he speaks up for the voiceless and tackles the most taboo topics such as mental health, abuse and suicide. So I’m absolutely thrilled to have caught up with the promising artist to talk about his latest single, ‘Hurricane Heart’.

NLM: Hey, thank you for taking part in an interview with NEW LEASE MUSIC. How is 2025 treating you so far?

A: It’s been a wild year, lots of ups and downs, but I’m so grateful for the journey that has brought me to where I am today.

NLM: You recently released your single, ‘Hurricane Heart’ (30th May). What is the public perception of the single so far?

A: I’ve had people telling me that they can relate to Hurricane Heart, and that the song is helping them process things they’ve been through, which is exactly what I aim to accomplish.

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

A: I wrote Hurricane Heart from my own experience of the aftermath of destructive relationships, and I wanted to spread awareness while telling not just my story, but the story of those who have experienced similar situations and haven’t yet found the words to express it. I actually wrote it live on stage after a soundcheck, as the first few lines had been going around in my head for a while, and it finally blossomed into a song in that moment.

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

A: It’s definitely my most uptempo release so far, though there’s still a variety of dynamic textures throughout the song. It has something of a rockier influence, and it explores deep lyrical topics.

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

A: That they are not alone, and that it’s okay to still be affected by something for a long time after it happens – it’s a normal response to an abnormal situation.

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

A: In the future, I’d absolutely love to do that, but for the time being, it’s unlikely to happen too soon.

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

A: For some reason, people keep comparing my voice to Adele’s, so it would be interesting to hear how she might interpret this song.

NLM: What plans do you have in store for 2025?

A: I have a show at the Royal Albert Hall coming up on the 15th of July, I’m also playing Durham Fringe Festival and starting work on recording my next EP, so stay tuned!

NLM: How can potential fans find you?

A: My Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok share the same handle of @amity_sings, my Twitch is AmitySings, my YouTube is Amity Miller, and my website is http://www.amity.music.

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

A: If music didn’t exist, I would have wanted to go into another career where I can help people and make a positive impact on the world, such as going into science, which I’ve actually always had a passion for.

A Quick Chat With…Handshake In Space

Since 2023, HANDSHAKE IN SPACE has been gracing the blog with his innovative EDM grooves which have made regular appearances on NLM charts over on Instagram.

So it’s an absolute pleasure to finally catch-up with the Swedish EDM producer to talk about his single, ‘Right By You’. Featuring Linnéa Lundgren, the smooth club filler is currently the blog’s Song of the Month.

NLM: Hey, thank you for taking part in an interview with NEW LEASE MUSIC. How is 2025 treating you so far?

HIS: Thanks for having me! 2025 has been an exciting year so far—lots of creative energy and new collaborations. I’m feeling inspired and ready to connect with even more listeners through my music.

NLM: Before we discuss your single, ‘Right By You’, please explain the meaning behind your epic stage name, Handshake In Space?

HIS: The name “Handshake In Space” is all about connection—reaching across boundaries, whether they’re between people, cultures, or even dimensions. It’s that moment of unity and understanding, something that feels almost cosmic. I wanted a name that captures both the electronic, futuristic vibe of my music and the idea of bringing people together.

NLM: You released ‘Right By You’ on Earth Hour Day (22nd March). What’s the public’s perception on the single so far?

HIS: The response has been amazing! Fans have connected with the emotional depth of the track, and releasing it on Earth Hour Day added a layer of meaning—tying music to mindfulness and our planet. Many have shared how it resonates with them personally, which is the best feedback an artist can get.

NLM: The single features Sweden’s acclaimed singer Linnéa Lundgren. How did you guys meet and who sparked the collaboration for ‘Right By You’?

HIS: We actually met through a mutual friend in the music scene. I’d been a fan of Linnéa’s voice and songwriting for a while, so when the opportunity came up, I reached out with the idea for this track. Luckily, she connected with it right away, and the collaboration came together naturally.

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

HIS: It’s a blend of melodic EDM with an emotional, atmospheric vibe. Think warm synths, driving beats, and Linnéa’s beautiful vocals bringing it all together. It’s music for late nights and reflective moments — but also something you can dance to.

NLM: What inspired you to produce the single?

HIS: The track was born from a moment of reflection on loyalty and support—how we show up for the people we care about, even when things get tough. Musically, I wanted to capture that duality of strength and vulnerability, which shaped the song’s uplifting yet melancholic vibe.

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

HIS: I hope listeners feel uplifted and connected—reminded that we’re all in this together. Whether it’s friendship, love, or just being present for someone. People have the power to change.

NLM: So what are your plans for the rest of the year?

HIS: I’m working on new music and exploring exciting collaborations. There are some live events in the pipeline, and I’m always looking for new ways to connect with fans and push my sound forward.

NLM: How can potential fans contact you?

HIS: You can find me on all major social media platforms—Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook—just search for Handshake In Space. My music is available on Spotify, Apple Music, and SoundCloud. Feel free to drop me a message—I love hearing from listeners!

NLM: Finally, if music did not exist, what profession would you do?

HIS: Wow… that’s hard to imagine but maybe working in anything that makes this beautiful world a better place. A change is gonna come.


Check out HANDSHAKE IN SPACE’s latest single, ‘Ocean Drive’ featuring Jolina Elísh, right HERE

A Quick Chat With… Nick Edwards

NICK EDWARDS dazzled his presence on NEW LEASE MUSIC with his 2024 EP, ‘Live At Yellow Arch Studio’ and went on to make history on NLM charts over on Instagram, claiming the Album of the Week title TWELVE times as well as currently holding the blog’s Album of the Month title.

So it was an absolute pleasure catching up with one of Manchester’s emotive singer-songwriter to talk about his brand new album, ‘Troubadour Soul Sinner’, out now across various music platforms.

NLM: Hey, thank you for taking part in an interview with NEW LEASE MUSIC. How is 2025 treating you so far?

NE: We are doing good. It’s been a hectic year so far on the music front, which is nice. This year is turning out to be the busiest we have had so far, with over 20 live shows scheduled around the UK, with more to be announced.

NLM: You just release your album, ‘Troubadour Soul Sinner’ (30th May). How would you describe the album’s sound to potential fans?

NE: Our sound is often labeled as country/soul, but it’s a blend of my diverse musical influences. Growing up in the 1980s, I was exposed to a wide range of genres, from Motown and rock to 90s pop. I’m sure on anyone’s first listen, these influences are subtly woven into the music.

NLM: What inspired you to produce the album?

NE: Following the release of my EP ‘1960’, which I released in 2023, I started writing a new EP. We got very close to finishing the EP, but we found that the collection of tracks we had was similar in style and time signature, and so we felt that whilst it was a good body of work, it wasn’t fluid enough for a release, so we quickly ditched that idea and began fleshing out the record into an album. It was a pretty nice transition, actually. It helped that I am always writing.

NLM: What is/are your favourite single(s) from the album and why?

NE: The album features some easy-listening tracks, along with some quite deep and meaningful songs to me personally, making for an eclectic mix. The first single I released was ‘Burning Love’. A simple love song touching on the way love used to be in the 90’s. When phones weren’t around, life was about mixing tapes, putting on a record, and living life with eyes wide open. I love the vibe of this song as it’s where I feel we found our ‘sound’. There is more of this type of sound to come. Other songs like ‘Letting Someone Go’ took inspiration from losing my dad and finally looking deep enough in yourself to know that moving on is the best way to move forward, but that moving on doesn’t mean forgetting. The opening track, ‘Where I Need to Go’, is a profound one for me, and it sets an honest tone for the record. My favourite track for the music is ‘Hometown’. I think it shows the talent I have.

NLM: What message would you like the listeners to take away from ‘Troubadour Soul Sinner’?

NE: My hope for ‘Troubadour Soul Sinner’ is that it resonates with listeners, providing a home within its tracks. I’ve delved deep into my personal experiences, flaws, and growth, and I’m proud to have translated them into this meaningful album.



NLM: If you had to feature one mainstream artist on the album, who would it, be and why?

NE: I would pick an artist who is honest, down-to-earth and modest. Zac Brown Band are really special to me, so it would have to be him.

NLM: So what plans do you have for the rest of 2025?

NE: We are fortunate to be playing weekend after weekend around the UK for various shows, so we are fully booked this year. I’m also currently going into the studio to put down my next record. My plans are always to keep moving…

NLM: How can potential fans find you?

NE: In the usual place. We are on most social media platforms, although we are probably most active on Instagram. All of my music is also uploaded on almost every mainstream platform.

NLM: Finally, any special shoutouts to those involved in the production of ‘Troubadour Soul Sinner’?

NE: I’m incredibly fortunate to have good people around me. Thankfully, I have not needed to rotate band members regularly, as I have a solid crew, and the album wouldn’t have been made without them, but my wife is a gem, and she doesn’t often get the praise. I have my bag regularly packed by the door, ready for my next outing. Not an easy life to be involved with, but she does it with ease.

Listen to ‘Troubadour Soul Sinner right here.

A Quick Chat With…Natty Boi Zoe

New York City’s self-proclaimed street poet NATTY BOI ZOE jumps into the NEW LEASE MUSIC’s interview hot seat to talk about his video for track ‘Black Renaissance’, which claimed the Music Video of the Week title back in April

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

NBZ: 2024 has been challenging lol but I love it thou,it’s been keeping me on my toes.

NLM: You released the video for single, ‘Black Renaissance’, back in March. What’s the concept behind the production?

NBZ: The concept behind the music video is Harlem Renaissance, idk… I feel personally that was an essential time for black people, pure vibes.

NLM: What inspired you to come up with the idea?

NBZ: Idk I just see how things is going on in the world, it’s like we forgot, where we came from. I’m just trying to bring back that feeling it was a great time for black people.

NLM: What is the public perception of the video so far?

NBZ: So far no complaints.

NLM: What message would you like the listeners to take away from ‘Black Renaissance’?

NBZ: The message behind black Renaissance, is to bring unity among each other, the awareness on how great we can be if we work together, I’m just trying to bring that Harlem Renaissance Vibes!!!

NLM: What plans do you have in store for 2025?

NBZ: I’m a drop my project “Black Renaissance” not to sure on the releases date yet, working on more music, videos and still being a full time dad but still staying forces on my goals…

NLM: How can potential fans find you?

NBZ: Nattyboizoe on all social media platforms, I’m almost taking emails zoegod@1987.com

NLM: Finally, any special shout outs to those involved in producing ‘Black Renaissance’ video?

NBZ: lol, I give thanks jah for everything but I made that music on my own, just trying different things right now…