Sad Americana singer-songwriter Gena Perala looks to brighter horizon on single, ‘I’m Gone’

Every summer, we look for songs that transcend us to scenes of warm air amidst comfortable settings, a cool evening breeze with a drink in hand, memorable moments with loved ones, and of course, hitting the open road with the windows down.

This – and quite possibly – the prospect of fearlessly ending one chapter of our lives and beginning the next.

Enter GENA PERALA, who released her breezy yet courageous country-flaired single, ‘I’m Gone.’

Sweeping in like the impending summer breeze, ‘I’m Gone’ makes its introduction with a welcoming banjo lick and acoustic guitar that soon gives way into a mellow modern-meets-traditional country groove equipped with pedal steel and all.

Perala’s honeyed vocals swoon from verse to chorus, and create a call to action of simply moving on and looking ahead to brighter horizons. “I don’t like crying / It’s true / I really don’t like crying / Crying over you / I don’t like waiting / It’s true / I sure as hell don’t like waiting / Waiting for you,” she sings, drawing out the “I’s” with impressive vocal precision.

“’I’m Gone’ is about knowing when to walk away,” Perala states. “It’s about refusing to stay where you’re not valued and trusting that something better is waiting—even if you can’t see it yet.”

The track blends heartbreak with quiet strength, and speaks to anyone who’s had to choose themselves over comfort. With its raw lyrics, rich harmonies, and driving acoustic instrumentation, the track balances heartbreak and empowerment in equal measure.

‘I’m Gone’ is the lead single from Perala’s upcoming album, Somewhere New, and it sets the tone for a story rooted in grit, heartache, and self-discovery. Common themes include choosing yourself, trusting that there’s something better ahead, and appreciating the simple things in life. “I think underneath it all, the album is really about resilience, hope, and staying true to who you are,” Perala says. The album is slated for a fall release.

Connect with Gena Perala via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/GenaPeralaMusic/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/genaperala
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@genaperala
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@genaperala

Source: Gena Perala

OUT TODAY: jem wax shares empowering single, ‘SPIDERRR’

JEM WAX‘s latest offering, ‘SPIDERRR’, was born from a recording session the London-based singer/producer had with multi-instrumentalist Natsuma and top-liner Emma Tea. During a lengthy and heartfelt session, the trio shared experiences of male privilege, power dynamics and personal growth.

Their shared experiences resulted in an audacious genre-bending cut with jem’s signature sung-spoken style firmly instilling strength, resilience and liberation, over a deep-guelling bass, which ran rampant through the production, with playful elements of jazz and hip-hop.

Commenting on the powerful track, who she produced with multi-instrumentalist Natsuma, jem said: “This song symbolises the power we have over our pasts. We can’t change what happened, but we can process how it affected us and make sure we don’t repeat mistakes. I want people to feel empowered, to have fun, and to dust off a few cobwebs after listening to the track. To me, ‘SPIDERRR’ is like Imagine Dragons meets auto-tune, meets UK Rap, meets Soul.’ 

A BBC Introducing favourite, jem’s dynamic vocals and lyricism, which radiates attitude and authenticity, have catapulted in the UK live music scene, earning her a sold-out headline show at Camden Chapel, plus a string of notable performances at The Strongroom, Piano Smithfield, and more recently, Servant Jazz Quarters.

As jem wax continues to be unapologetically herself, by blending elements of jazz, rap and pop to create a bold, genre-defying sound, she’s definitely the one to watch in 2025.

‘SPIDERRR’ is out today (13th February) via various music platforms. Why not listen below…

Connect with jem wax via:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/jemwax_/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jemwax
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/246wnUMlcedroVMCuVtW7S
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jemwax/null

OUT TODAY: Tony Bones The Producer and Jackson B unite with lyricist AKS to channel nostalgia on single ‘Whatever It Is’

As they continue to tease towards their joint project, frequent collaborators Tony Bones The Producer and Jackson B join forces with rising British/Nigerian wordsmith, AKS, to release the nostalgia infused joint single ‘Whatever It Is’ – a track that blends the soulful essence of 90s hip-hop with a modern-day edge.

Leading with its infectious boom-bap rhythms, live saxophone elements, and thought-provoking lyrics, the new single is a nod to golden-era Hip-Hop, reminiscent of icons like De La Soul and A Tribe Called Quest – melding nostalgia with innovation in a way that speaks to both the old school and the new generation of listeners.

Tony Bones The Producer, fast gaining a reputation for his ability to craft timeless, soul-infused beats, lays the foundation of the track. Drawing inspiration from the jazz, funk, and boom-bap that defined the 90s hip-hop sound, Tony’s production exudes warmth and groove, paying homage to the roots of the genre while maintaining a contemporary edge.

What sets ‘Whatever It Is’ apart is the live instrumentation provided by Jackson B, a multi-instrumentalist and saxophonist. His smooth saxophone lines and melancholy keys breathe life into the track, adding an organic, jazz-inspired texture that elevates the song to new heights. Jackson B’s improvisational style is a nod to jazz legends, effortlessly blending with the hip-hop production to create a unique listening experience.

Playing front-man for this effort is wordsmith AKS, a critically acclaimed UK based rapper whose lyrical finesse and effortless flow perfectly complement the classic feel of the beat. Known for his introspective and motivational rhymes, AKS delivers verses that reflect themes of resilience, growth, and self-discovery. His bars speak to the listener’s soul, encouraging them to trust in their journey and embrace their individuality. A testament compounded by the artistry evidently on display here as he finds a way to merge the heavy with the cheerful whilst getting you singing along.

Together, the trio have crafted a vibrant, feel-good song that evokes something more, ‘Whatever It Is’….it’s a sonic journey that reflects on the past while embracing the future. Tony Bones’ production, combined with Jackson B’s instrumentation and AKS’s introspective lyrics, results in a track that is as much a nod to the past as it is a statement of intention for the enduring legacy of Hip-Hop. This collaboration is a reminder that the genre’s heart and soul are still thriving, with timeless themes that continue to resonate with both long-time fans and new generations alike.

‘Whatever it Is’ is available today (24th October 2024 ) for streaming/download on major digital platforms and offers a brilliant insight into Jackson B x Tony Bones The Producer’s forthcoming joint album. As a true collaboration the record will also feature on AKS’ forthcoming “Departures & Arrivals: As Plane as Day” project as he closes out his “Modes of Transport” series.

Connect with AKS, Jackson B & Tony Bones the Producer
AKS: http://instagram.com/AKSonline
Jackson B: http://instagram.com/jacks0n.b_
Tony Bones the Producer: http://instagram.com/tonybonestheproducer 

OUT TODAY: Clara Pople shares self-empowerment single, ‘Hot Moon’.

CLARA POPLE‘s brand new single, ‘Hot Moon’ broods a strong atmospheric drive, soothed over by her delicately light vocals which creates a laid-back and magical experience. If you’re unfamiliar with Clara Pople, she is a promising indie pop/trip-hop artist from North West of England, that’s well and truly connected with nature and her latest single mirrors that bond, the chaotic energy that a Full Moon brings – and her resilience in carving a name for herself in the challenging music industry.

Speaking about the inspiration behind ‘Hot Moon’, Clara Pople shares: “This is my empowerment anthem for all women and people who can feel overpowered by the forces of nature. Hot Moon is a song about the ebbing and flowing tides of being a woman. How nature can control our mood and how, whilst infuriating, we just have to give in sometimes and let the madness take over.”

Crediting her upbringing in a family of strong women and her education at an all-girls school for instilling a sense of resilience, Clara she feels confident and empowered enough to navigate a path into the music scene, her way and on her terms. She created The Boat Gigs, which have quickly become a word-of-mouth sensation in London’s underground scene. The gigs, which feature a lineup of three emerging artists, have become a lifeline for musicians looking to play in a supportive environment without the usual pressures of self-promotion.

South Cumbria-born Clara came up with the idea of The Boat Gigs after moving onto a boat. She envisioned turning the intimate and airy space into a venue. What began as a personal experiment has blossomed into a vibrant monthly event, situated at St Pancras Old Church in London, where Clara will be performing at tonight’s (19th September) headline show.

She explains: “Hosting gigs on the boat just felt natural. I needed a venue where I could headline, so I thought, why not create my own show every month and build a community around it? It’s been incredible seeing how these gigs are helping other emerging artists as well. They’re the OG form of what a gig should be—built-in crowd, guaranteed pay, and a chance to connect with like-minded musicians.”

With the release of ‘Hot Moon’ – out today (19th September) – across various music platforms – and her thriving boat gigs, Clara Pople proves there is room for creating music that’s true to oneself, while building a strong community of like-minded musicians. Why not listen to ‘Hot Moon’ below…

Connect with Clara Pople via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/ClaraPopleMusic/
X: https://x.com/clarapoplemusic
IG:https://www.instagram.com/clarapoplemusic/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@its_clara_pople

OUT TODAY: Ashley Barron flips the script in single, ‘Cryin’ In A Bar’.

She has shared the stage with some of country music’s best, including opening for the legendary T. Graham Brown, Dylan Scott, Maddie & Tae, Tyler Farr, and Craig Campbell. As a rising artist ASHLEY BARRON takes a bold step away from traditional heartbreak and redefines the narratives in her new single, ‘Cryin’ In A Bar.’ Steering clear of the typical love story plot, this song flips the script on challenging the notion that a broken heart comes from surprising strength rather than ‘Crying In A Bar.’ The song, co-written by Ashley and acclaimed songwriter Pete Sallis, is a testament to their combined storytelling prowess. Pete, known for his work with artists like Ronnie Dunn, Maddie & Tae, Bucky Covington, and the multi-platinum hit ‘Shut Up and Fish,” brings his signature touch to ‘Cryin’ In A Bar.’

I should be crying in a bar
In the corner in the dark
Drowning in the bourbon wishing I was hurting
More than I am
But when I hear those
jukebox sad songs play
They don’t sting as bad as yesterday
They were wrong whoever said you can’t mend a broken heart
I should be crying in a bar

Ashley says, “When we wrote this song, I was very much overwriting your typical love story. ‘Cryin’ In A Bar’ is a twist. When you feel like your heart should be broken, but in reality, you’re okay!”

‘Cryin’ In A Bar’ is the second single to follow the first titled ‘Betrayed,’ which was released earlier this year with placements in Cowgirl Magazine, The Women of Country, and featured as a cover story three-page spread on Poze Magazine. It served as the opening move, setting the stage for a journey of overcoming personal challenges where every song is a strategic move and the ultimate victory is found within herself.

Ashley adds, “The production on this song is hands down one of my favorites. I remember being in the studio trying to feel the rhythm, so I started doing the waltz in front of my vocal mic.”

Whether playing in an intimate venue or on a large festival stage, Ashley commands the attention of the audience, leaving a lasting mark. Her concerts are a dynamic blend of country and rock, infused with a sense of authenticity and grit drawn from her personal experiences.

As a touring artist, Ashley recently headlined her show at the National Scleroderma Walk in Napa County, CA, a foundation close to her heart as she was selected to be their celebrity ambassador. She is also set to perform at the Platteville Fire Department Celebration on June 22, 2024, in Platteville, WI; the Winneshiek County Fair in Decorah, IA, with Joe Nichols on July 12, 2024; and the Dallas County, Iowa, with Craig Morgan on July 13, 2024.

‘Cryin’ In A Bar’ was released today across various platforms. Why not listen below…

Connect with Ashley Barron via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/ashleybarronofficial/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/ashleybarronofficial/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCchP2A4P0Jh22O4sGekG_MA
Website: https://www.ashleybarronofficial.com/