Fresh, fiery and fantastic- All the Fresh Hits you need to fill your weekend

Alt-Pop, Electronic, female singer, Hip Hop, New Music, New Release, pop, Pop Music, R&B, Rap, UK Music

Happy Friday readers! We’re back to round off the week with a collection of stunning tracks that are HOT off the press.

With an insane number of great releases to choose from we were truly spoiled this week, and delighted to be sharing another Fresh Hit Radar lineup with you.

Let’s kick off with the wonderful Vicky Trantou and single All About Me. Smooth and sultry All About Me is an accomplished R&B track from the young songstress. Ethereal vocals, bouncing percussion and some gorgeous runs make for a stunning single from Vicky Trantou. All About Me comes off latest release and debut EP from Vicky titled ‘Seventeen’, a collection of four stunning tracks that establish Vicky as a rising star in UK R&B. Stream All About Me below-

Next up is Electro-Pop ballad I Can’t Get Away from Scottish artist Konner. Packed full of bright synth pads and Konner’s deeply rich vocals I Can’t Get Away is an ambient single. Melodic and glossy this track is true Synth-Pop brilliance. With just a hint of sorrow hidden behind those sparkling synths, don’t blame us when this track has you shedding a tear or two.

Third on the line-up are Sad-Pop masters Audrey’s Dance with emotive track ‘Internet Queen’. Heart-wrenching and icy, Internet Queen is a softly sad tune from the duo. Gentle vocals sit effortlessly over warm piano chords to create an atmospheric track. Moody and melancholy, Audrey’s Dance emanate a sad yet sweet tone, depressing yet heavenly they find a perfect musical blend between light and dark.

Next up it’s SoulClap with track Val, featuring Illa Jjo & Verb Turner. Soulful and grooving, Val is a kinetic and smooth Alt-Rap track from the talented trio. Packed full with witty bars, jazz influence and subtle bounce the track carries genuine flow and movement. Produced to perfection, Val is a faultless track. Listen to Val to add some groove to your weekend.

Happy Listening!

Written By: Jessica Rowe

Leoscappin to bring us stand-out EP ‘Alienated’

Hip Hop, New Music, New Release, Rap, UK Music

Fired up and ready to go, Surrey-based rapper Leoscappin is preparing the world for his latest release Alienated out on 5th February.

Triple-threat Leoscappin is a true creative; venturing into the world of acting, music and more, his talents truly know no bounds.

Benefitting from a worldly experience and perspective from his upbringing in Sao Paolo and his Japanese heritage, Leoscappin’s sound has a truly eclectic feel.

Leoscappin’s sound has a heavy American influence, fusing elements of Trap with a soothing style to create effortlessly smooth singles. Chill beats, witty word-smithery and an intriguing use of synth pads make for an accomplished lineup of tracks on the Alienated EP.

The Alienated EP is a call out for listeners to believe in themselves no matter how ostracised they may feel.

“I try to make all my songs have a different feeling and vibe. Some will make you think about your life, others are just for parties and some are just me trying to tell a story...

…I usually have an idea as soon as I listen to the beat and will follow through with that for the whole song, meaning if I don’t vibe with the beat in the first few seconds I’ll just move on”. – Leoscappin

Leoscappin’s EP ‘Alienated’ is set for release on 5th February.

In the meantime, find and follow Leoscappin:

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Drake becomes first artist to hit 50 billion Spotify streams

Hip Hop, Music News, News

Original Article

Drake has become the first artist ever to surpass 50 billion combined streams on Spotify.

The Toronto rapper is one of the streaming service’s most popular artists, with his 2018 song ‘God’s Plan’ racking up 1.67 billion streams alone.

The Chart Data website, which keeps regular tabs on chart movements and streaming figures, has now announced that Drake has surpassed 50 billion combined streams (including featured credits) on Spotify.

The independent music data website ChartMasters backs this claim up, calculating that Drake has clocked up 35.72 billion streams of his own songs and 14.30 billion streams of “featured streams” (such as tracks he has guested on), taking his combined total to just over 50 billions streams on Spotify.

A huge milestone for one of the biggest artists in music.

Reported By: Jessica Rowe

Melanie Masson brings us much needed feel-good single ‘Seasons’

female singer, New Music, New Release, Pop Music, Singer-Songwriter, Soul, UK Music

Songstress Melanie Masson has brought out a brand new single ‘Seasons’. The cheery track is a follow up to Melanie’s acclaimed debut track ‘Why Don’t You Love Me’.

The soulful single ‘Seasons’ is Melanie’s unique take on the classic hit Seasons (Waiting on You). Putting her own northern sultry spin on the track, Melanie has already received praise from the band themselves, with Bassist (William Cashion) calling her rendition a ‘beautiful version’.

We whole-heartedly agree. Melanie’s ‘Seasons’ is a bouncy and light track, packed full of deeply soulful vocals and some ultra-punchy percussion.

“I loved the melody and lyrics to Seasons and really connected to it. It felt very reflective yet optimistic and that’s the mood I wanted to create for the video. I wanted to send out a positive message. It feels like we’re all in the same challenging situation right now.

We all have our struggles, our ups and down but there’s always hope. It’s about hanging on to what’s important, taking strength from that and holding onto the belief that better days are coming. It’s a message to everyone to hang on in there.” – Melanie Masson

The track was once again produced by the talented Tristan Longworth, utilising a team of skilled live musicians to bring an authentic feel to the single.

The talented team behind the track perfectly compliment Melanie’s smooth vocals, packed full of power, emotion and feeling just like some of soul’s greatest voices of all time.

The accompanying video for ‘Seasons‘ is a flowing and free set of feel-good visuals. Light and Joyous, the ‘Seasons’ video sees Melanie moving through nature looking nothing short of glorious.

Watch the ‘Seasons’ video below-

The stunning video was directed by acclaimed Film and TV actress and director Simone Lahbib (currently a regular in Eastenders) and is certain to bring a smile to your face.

Glasgow-born Melanie grew up with performer parents; destined for a career in creativity she began singing in local venues from a young age.

The rest, as they say, is history. Melanie went on to train in Music and Drama at Edinburgh’s Queen Margaret University. Her eclectic career has seen her become a solo recording artist on EMI records, tour with the likes of Pink and Stereophonics and gain top 40 hits with groups WiFi as well as The Bassheads.

Melanie shows no sign of stopping, with her recent releases landing her firmly in the hearts of the British public.

Melanie Masson’s soulful style and emotive delivery bring a moving tone to everything she touches, truly turning tracks into gold.

With a bright personality and cheerful energy that is truly infectious, Melanie Masson is the soulful songstress the world desperately needs in these challenging times.

Find, follow and stream Melanie Masson.

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New music galore, it’s time for the Fresh Hit Radar

Acoustic, Alt-Pop, Electronic, female singer, New Music, New Release, Pop Music, Rap, Singer-Songwriter, UK Music

Happy Friday! It’s our highlight of the week, the Fresh Hit Radar feature and our chance to share the very BEST tracks we’ve come across this week.

Today’s lineup is packed full of power, prowess and promise. Get ready and let’s dive into the Music.

First up it’s Pop songstress India Dupriez with her latest single Holding On. This electro infused track is a mighty Alt-Pop single. With some intricate synths, a booming beat and India’s signature beaming vocals that make for one hell of a track. Holding On is a follow up to India’s previous power-pop singles How and Kiss & Tell, tracks that have helped to firmly establish India Dupriez as a rising star in Pop. At just 17 years young, the best from India Dupriez is yet to come. Listen to Holding On below.

Next up is Untold Poet with his acoustic version of track Have You Heard It. Stripped back and smooth, this single is a soft take on the typically chaotic Rap sound. Soft and gentle piano chords contrast perfectly with Untold Poet’s sturdy delivery. With some wonderful wordplay and delicate lyricism Have You Heard It is an accomplished track Alt-Rap single. Listen below-

Third on our list is the talented Greer Baxter with her latest single Sleeping on the Couch. Sad yet sweet, Sleeping on the Couch is an emotive Electro-Pop take on the classic love song. Greer’s vocals have a softly gritty tone that is truly addictive, with some bright synth pads and effortless harmonies that are cherry on top. You can read Greer’s full feature with us HERE and listen to Sleeping on the Couch below.

Last but by no means least is Krankhead with single Hadouken. Following up on the success of their previous singles No Luck and Space Coupe Krankhead are back bringing us more Trap-heavy sounds. Witty wordplay from Patchy sits over a nimble beat and hefty bass line from producer Mio Flux. Innovative duo Krankhead (Patchy, The Rockstar and Mio Flux) are certified gold; making moves in the UK Rap scene 2021 is surely set to be their year.

Happy Listening!

Written By: Jessica Rowe

Greer Baxter brings us new smooth pop single Sleeping on the Couch

Alt-Pop, female singer, New Music, New Release, pop, Pop Music

New York native Greer Baxter has released an effortlessly brilliant pop single titled ‘Sleeping on the Couch.’

Out now, the promising artist’s latest tune is available on all streaming services.

The sultry songwriter brings a soft touch to the pop genre, with glossy synths, gentle harmonies and understated percussion.

‘Sleeping on the Couch’ is a classically brilliant pop single, with subtle electro elements, Greer Baxter brings a unique and mellow approach to the genre.

‘Sleeping on the Couch’ tells the relatable tale of fighting with someone you love and trying to keep the arguments from pulling you apart. It’s an emotive single all about having a connection that’s stronger than conflict.

“I wrote this song about suddenly being at odds with the person you love and trying to make sense of it. We’ve all had a night sleeping on the couch and we wake up in the morning thinking: why would we let a fight keep us apart for the night? It’s about wanting to resolve it before falling asleep and wondering if the other person feels the same.” – Greer Baxter

‘Sleeping on the Couch’ is intimate yet profound; an alt-pop take on the classic love song and follow up single to Greer’s 2019 EP release ‘Bleed’.

Greer Baxter has a polished-to-perfection sound and style; having been writing, singing and playing piano from a young age, music is truly what Greer was born to give to the world.

A wordsmith that needs to be heard, Greer Baxter is not one to miss.

“My music therefore tries to connect poetry and melody and that is always my guiding force as I write my songs. I believe words and music can transport you in ways nothing else can. That inspires me and hopefully will inspire others.” – Greer Baxter

Find, follow and stream Greer Baxter.

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Soundcloud

Linktree

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The 1975 cancel all shows for 2021 due to Covid-19

Band, indie, Music News, News, Pop Music, Rock, UK Music

Original Article

British rockers The 1975 have cancelled all their 2021 shows due to ongoing concerns about the Covid-19 pandemic.

Matt Healy and his bandmates made the announcement to fans on Tuesday, explaining they don’t want to put the health of their fans or crew at risk so they will be offering a refund on tickets.

“These are incredibly difficult times for a lot of people,” the statement said.

“Until we can be sure that we will be able to play shows in a way that is safe for our fans and crew, we have decided the best course of action is to cancel our touring so that, where possible, everyone can get their tickets refunded sooner rather than later.”

The band then offered some better news for fans by revealing plans to keep busy during 2021 by working on a new album.

A devastating but necessary decision taken by the band, fingers crossed we may still see some live music in 2021.

Reported By: Jessica Rowe

Lana Del Rey defends ‘Chemtrails Over The Country Club’ album cover

female singer, Music News, New Music, New Release, News, pop, Pop Music

Original Article

Lana Del Rey has elaborated on the cover art of her forthcoming album ‘Chemtrails Over The Country Club’, appearing to pre-emptively respond to criticism about the diversity of the group of people it depicts.

The singer unveiled the artwork and the tracklist for the record late Sunday night (January 10). It features Del Rey and a number of other women gathered around a table smiling.

She also left an Instagram comment elaborating on the cover art, starting the message, “I also want to say that with everything going on this year! And no this was not intended-these are my best friends, since you are asking today.

“And damn! As it happens when it comes to my amazing friends and this cover yes there are people of color on this records picture and that’s all I’ll say about that,” Del Rey added.

Are you looking forward to new music from Lana?

Reported By: Jessica Rowe

Back and better than ever, it’s the very first Fresh Hit Radar lineup of 2021!

Acoustic, Alternative, Electronic, female singer, indie, New Music, New Release, pop, Pop Music, R&B, Rock 'N' Roll, Singer-Songwriter

Happy New Year one and all! We’re so excited to be back in the saddle and bringing you another instalment of our beloved Fresh Hit Radar.

We’ve line-up a few of the best tracks we’ve heard this week, bringing you nothing but tunes. Buckle up and let’s dive into the music!

First up it’s Pop Playlister’s fave Lohrd Snohw back with another single titled Call Me Deadly. This one comes in collaboration with fellow talent Kate Brunotts, and the two of them make for one hell of a duo. Haunting and atmospheric, this Alt-Pop single is packed full of intriguing synths, innovative percussion and icy lyricism. Curious yet wistful Call Me Deadly is a cinematic track from the duo, with glossy vocals and nimble runs we truly couldn’t wish for more. Listen Below.

Next up it’s Mattiechi with the aptly titled single ‘Smooth’. This grooving single is classic old-school R&B goodness, with an easy sitting beat some sultry vocals and understated harmonies. Mattiechi’s sound has an openly nostalgic feel, reminiscent of 90’s/00’s style R&B this track will take you back to your younger days. Laid back and peaceful Smooth is the definition of an easy listening tune, pop this one on your playlist and feel truly tranquil.

Next up is psych-rock single Cafe from band Bad Chemicals. Driving and heavy this track is back full of punchy drums, gritty guitars and impenetrable vocals. Gloomy instrumental with a strangely cheery vibe make for the perfect equilibrium between light and dark. This track will have you up and moving in no time.

Rounding off the list is a stunning single and music video from the talented Araya titled Color Palette. Vibrant and animated this single is full of bright guitars, smooth beats and some gooey vocals. Araya is an artist that transcends genre, bringing a curious yet polished sense of style to the scene. Color Palette is a feel good track, accompanied by a music video that is nothing but good vibes, take a look below.

Happy Listening!

Written By: Jessica Rowe

Pa Salieu is BBC Music’s Sound of 2021

Music News, New Music, New Release, News, UK Music

Original Article

Pa Salieu has been crowned the winner of BBC Music Sound of 2021.

The 23-year-old rapper was selected by a panel of 160 industry experts and alumni artists including Billie Eilish, Stormzy, Jorja Smith, Wolf Alice, AJ Tracey, YUNGBLUD, Foals, and Charli XCX.

Pa Salieu was born in Slough and spent his formative years in The Gambia before moving to Coventry at the age of 8. His new home later became the inspiration behind his breakout track Frontline and his debut mixtape Send Them To Coventry, which he dropped late in 2020 to widespread acclaim.

He began his journey with BBC Music back in the summer of 2019, with his track Dem A Lie premiering on BBC Radio 1Xtra for Target Embargo. He has since recorded freestyles for Toddla T and Tiffany Calver on 1Xtra, and joined the likes of Headie One, Ghetts and Burna Boy on the bill for 1Xtra Live 2020.

Pa Salieu says: “I was just really happy to even be included on the list alongside some amazing artists, a few of who I know personally. They’re all crazy talented, so to be the winner of something like this so early in my journey just feels mad.”

Reported By: Jessica Rowe