Tag: Unsigned artist

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.

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Song of the Day: House Wife – Emili

EMILI’s self-written/produced single, ‘House Wife’ – out now across various music platforms – started as a fun idea from a funky beat she made.
 
Emili’s former day-to-day life could be described as a dutiful housewife, spending her time cooking and cleaning while steadily growing her music career. She once joked to a friend: ‘What about go for a walk, quick coffee shop, no 9-5 but the work never stops’? The quick witted line formed the first verse of ‘House Wife’.
 
With a gleeful fusion of jazz, funk and pop, ‘House Wife’ evolved into a playful anthem about loving the ‘housewife’ lifestyle – but when producing the single, Emili was conscious of the fact, while she enjoyed being a housewife, the role may be viewed as outdated and sexist by today’s standards. This prompted Emili to look into the typical life of a 1950s housewife, which inspired her to add a bridge to reflect the 50s ideals, and the ending as a little nod to how it was sold as ‘the dream’.  Among the feel good vibes and humorous lyrics, there is an underline statement to the single: being a housewife is only a pleasant experience if it’s a choice.
 
‘House Wife’ serves as a teaser to Emili’s work-in-progress album set for an early 2026 release, and marks new chapter of incorporating humour in her music, bringing her closer to her quirky retro sound.

Counting Sabrina Carpenter, Adele, Michael Bublé, and Silk Sonic as her biggest Influences, Emili’s passion for music started in high school musical theatre in her native Australia, where she fell in love with storytelling and performing. She continued with acting after school, until her husband encouraged her to pursue music—despite feeling nervous she might not be good enough.
 
Emili quickly banished her nerves aside and went on a mini tour in Australia in 2024 called Wacky Wonderland. In the same year, Emili released her debut single ‘Vanity’ which she produced entirely on her own. The easy listening ballad was the second song she’d ever written; ‘House Wife’ is the third song she’s written.
 
First generation Australia, ethnically Macedonian/Serbian, Emili moved to the UK in 2025 to pursue a music career. She’s currently working with Hot Vox and War Child UK to combine music with meaningful causes. Her tour profits went to charities that support children in unfortunate circumstances.     
 
A graduate in Theatre and Music, Emili is becoming force to be reckoned with. A true powerhouse, she has done everything herself—from designing posters and merchandise to writing and producing her songs, and even directing and editing her own music videos.  Emili’s other passion are chickens—so much so that her logo is a chicken. She has a chicken tattoo, and her chicken mascot, Steve, features throughout her brand.
 
To date, Emili’s tracks have accumulated approximately 30,000 streams from building her fanbase through open mic nights and from the firm support of family and friends sharing her music.
 
As Emili is currently finalising her album for an early 2026 release, she teases us with the infectious single ‘House Wife’, out now for your pleasure across various music platforms.

Connect with Emili via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/emilimilo/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/emili_milosevska/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emilimilosevska

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Stefanie Michaela has a message for naysayers on single, ‘Stay In Your Lane’.

Every once in a while, you have that someone who keeps buzzing in your ear, telling you what you should do with your life. You try to ignore the unwelcome advice, but it comes a time when enough is enough.

STEFANIE MICHAELA knows that feeling all too well. After steadily curating her musical journey, honing her craft at Idyllwild Arts Academy and the Boston Conservatory, the Los Angeles singer/songwriter pressed pause on her passion to raise her five children and felt constantly judged for her decision – but she wasn’t having any of it! That message is the inspiration behind her single, appropriately titled, ‘Stay In your Lane’.

Produced by multi-Grammy Award-winning producer Keith Thomas (Whitney Houston, Barbra Streisand, Selena), ‘Stay In Your Lane’ may have an immediately addictive delicate soulful pop grooves, with a tinge of nineties R&B, but beyond the idyllic melodies Stefanie elegantly delivers a stern message for the naysayers: “Maybe if you’re happier in your own life, you could continue to stay in your lane.”

As Stefanie Michaela makes an impressive return to the music industry, there’s a strong sense that she’s not here just to churn out some catchy tunes. Her comeback strongly signifies that it’s never too late to reach out for your dreams and desires, perfectly positioning ‘Stay In Your Lane’ as the anthem of having unwavering perseverance and the courage to ignite that passion.

Now armed with her biggest fans – her children – It’s very safe to say that Stefanie Michaela is going full force with her renewed passion as she gears up to release her EP, ‘Turning Pages’ slated for release later this year.

‘Stay In Your Lane’ is now out for your pleasure across various music platforms. Why not press play on the empowering single below…

Connect with Stefanie Michaela via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555524656282
IG: https://www.instagram.com/stefaniemichaelamusic/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StefanieMichaelaVEVO
Website: https://www.stefaniemichaela.com/

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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

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Handshake In Space drops electrifying single ‘SHOUT’

Rising electronic artist HANDSHAKE IN SPACE ignites the airwaves with his highly anticipated new single, ‘Shout’, out now across various music platforms. Known for his signature blend of pulsating synths, cinematic soundscapes, and infectious beats, HANDSHAKE IN SPACE continues to push the boundaries of electronic music.

‘Shout’ is a high-energy anthem that fuses retro-futuristic vibes with modern electronic production. With its driving bassline, hypnotic melodies, and anthemic vocals, the track captures the raw intensity of release and expression. Fans can expect a track that’s not only made for the dancefloor but also delivers an emotional punch.

Speaking about the single, HANDSHAKE IN SPACE says: ”Shout’ is about breaking free—letting go of inhibitions and embracing the chaos. I wanted to create a song that feels both powerful and liberating, something that makes people want to move and let it all out.”

The release of ‘Shout’ comes after a year of thrilling performances and viral success for HANDSHAKE IN SPACE. With many streams and a growing global fanbase, he continues to carve out his own space in the electronic music scene.

‘Shout’ is now available on all major streaming platforms…why not have a listen below…

Connect with HANDSHAKE IN SPACE via:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/handshakeinspace
IG: https://www.instagram.com/handshake_in_space
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@handshakeinspace

Source: Stefan Halling (Handshake In Space)

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