I’m about to head off on a short summer vacation. Although, I couldn’t leave without sharing an incredible pride anthem: “Independent Girls & Nasty Evil Gays” by the talented Dutch soul pop artist Jeangu Macrooy. This song has been relentlessly playing in my mind since my very first listen. And it’s impossible to ignore the powerful satirical narrative that boldly addresses issues of sexism and queerphobia. It’s a track that deserves to be celebrated and shared!

While the song title alone leaves a strong impression, Jeangu elevates his role as spokesman by diving deeper into the message. Throughout the track, he passionately articulates a message that champions equality and authenticity, urging listeners to embrace their true selves and stand against societal norms that stifle individuality. By weaving personal anecdotes and relatable experiences into his lyrics, he creates a compelling narrative that resonates with the listener, inspiring them to pursue their own journey toward empowerment and self-acceptance.

“It’s a funny, sarcastic protest anthem for the girls and the gays” says Jeangu. “I wrote it from the perspective of people who blame feminism and queerness for everything that’s “wrong” in the world – just to highlight how ridiculous and outdated that mindset really is.”

Jeangu certainly has a way to get his message across. Moreover, there is no doubt “It’s a very tongue-in-cheek, over-the-top satire, and we leaned all the way in” says Jeangu. “It’s camp, it’s chaos, and it’s got a message.”

If you’re a Eurovision enthusiast, you likely know Jeangu Macrooy. He was set to represent the Netherlands in 2020 with his powerful song “Grow,” but the pandemic cancelled the event. Undeterred, Jeangu continues to expand his artistic pursuits. And will release his highly anticipated fourth studio album, “Young, Awkward & Lonely,” this autumn. This summer, he’ll star as Orpheus in the acclaimed musical “Hadestown” at the Royal Theater Carré in Amsterdam.

While pride anthems are undeniably abundant, there’s something extraordinarily special about “Independent Girls & Nasty Evil Gays.” This track not only asserts the spirit of empowerment and individuality but also boldly challenges stereotypes in a way that resonates deeply. Its catchy rhythm and fierce lyrics provide an anthem for those embracing their true selves. Thus making it unequivocally unique in a wave of somewhat predictable pride-themed music.

Connect with Jeangu Macrooy

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/MusicbyJeangu/

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/jeangu_macrooy/

The post Watch “Independent Girls & Nasty Evil Gays” by Jeangu Macrooy appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

Allow me to introduce you to CRUZEJUDE, a talented queer indie-pop artist from the East Midlands who has just released an absolutely captivating new track titled “Falling For You.” He recently reached out to share the song, but to be honest, the message was brief. Although, this left me eager to dive right into the music. As soon as I pressed play, I was instantly enveloped in the lush, dreamy melodies and smooth vibes. At once, completely transported by the experience. As an introduction, this was truly the best way to engage with CRUZEJUDE’s unique and evocative artistry.

This song beautifully weaves an intimate and dreamy atmosphere that draws you in from the very first note. The vocals carry a distinct indie-pop aesthetic, showcasing soft harmonies and an inviting tone that instantly captivates the listener. The combination of the airy vocal style and the lush, melodic soundscape reminds me of an intriguing fusion between Clairo‘s ethereal qualities and Blood Orange‘s smooth, groove-infused sound.

It’s the kind of track that feels just right on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Perfect for lounging around with a cup of tea or soaking in the sun. The soft, reflective lyrics explore the bittersweet experience of falling for someone who is emotionally unavailable. All while conveying a powerful, heartfelt message about recognizing and embracing your own self-worth. This depth adds a layer of relatability, making the song not just enjoyable but also a source of comfort for anyone navigating similar feelings.

After diving into his social media, I discovered that he’s not only an exceptional musician but also a professional dancer. He has toured with Girls Aloud, shared the stage with Sabrina Carpenter, and made a striking appearance at this year’s Eurovision Song Contest as a backup dancer for Malta’s Miriana Conte, electrifying the audience with the cheeky anthem “Serving.”

His musical persona, CRUZEJUDE, is equally striking, showcasing a diverse and captivating selection of tracks on his Spotify that underline his extraordinary versatility. His vocal skills are slick and commanding, truly setting him apart in the competitive music landscape. I felt it is imperative that I feature him as an emerging artist on the blog. Thus highlighting his remarkable talent and undoubtedly driving up some engagement for his musical art.

Connect with CRUZEJUDE

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/Cruzejphilip/

The post EMERGING ARTIST: CRUZEJUDE appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

The final of this year’s Eurovision Song Contest in Basel, Switzerland, was once again a vibrant mix of dance anthems, powerful ballads, and a quirky assortment of novelty pop from across Europe. As we approached the 2025 competition, I found myself without a clear favourite, which was a change from previous years. The final felt like an open playing field, where I sensed the strongest performance of the night would ultimately take home the prize. Thus eclipsing all the pre-event hype and betting odds. No matter how the results played out, I always look forward to sharing my personal highlights from this incredible annual international televised song competition.

“Lighter” by Kyle Alessandro (Norway)

Photo by Thor Håkan Ulstad

What an intense experience for a nineteen-year-old! Kyle Alessandro, representing Norway, stepped onto the stage as the opening act of the ESC grand final—making history as the youngest artist ever to represent the country. His song, “Lighter,” is an electrifying, anthemic electro-pop gem. Though sung with impressive confidence, the track itself lacked distinct originality and memorability. Yet, the extraordinary staging more than compensated for these shortcomings. A solitary flickering flame ignited into a breathtaking display, engulfing the stage in a fiery ring, simulating a wildfire that rapidly spread around Kyle and his talented dancers. This dramatic visual made for a truly spectacular kickoff to the show.

Early performance slots are notoriously tough when it comes to leaving a lasting impact on voters and the audience, and it’s a real disappointment that “Lighter” didn’t receive the recognition it deserved in the voting. Still, Kyle executed his performance with skill and charisma, and I’m genuinely excited to see where his post-Eurovision journey takes him.

“Serving” by Miriana Conte (Malta)

From the very beginning, Maltese artist Miriana Conte made her intentions unmistakably clear: she came to Eurovision to slay! With audacity and flair, she unleashed her cheeky anthem, the irresistibly iconic “Serving“. Throughout the Eurovision journey, this track quickly captured the hearts of fans, emerging as a standout favourite. Miriana’s strategy of pushing boundaries and leaving little to the imagination was almost flawless—until the EBU intervened, insisting on a minor but significant lyric change. But this diva was unshaken. Her boundless charisma teamed with striking visual elements ensured that the essence of “Serving” remained intact. Without a doubt, Miriana has caught the attention of the RuPaul Drag Race fandom. (Possibly part of a grander scheme she envisaged). Miriana for Mighty Hoopla 2026? It’s not just a possibility; it’s a foregone inevitability, I feel!

“Wasted Love” by JJ (Austria)

Photo by Pavla Hartmanová

On sheer vocal mastery alone, the Austrian singer-songwriter JJ (aka Johannes Pietsch) clearly stood out among the Eurovision competitors.

His popopera style is not only powerful but also refreshingly unique. Seamlessly transitioning between pop and opera, JJ makes it appear effortless. His performance of “Wasted Love” was nothing short of breathtaking. The striking contrast and his accomplished falsetto truly take your breath away; it’s a masterclass in vocal excellence. This was only heightened by the dramatic monochrome staging, which added an extra layer of impact. In my view, no one can rival the extraordinary vocal prowess that JJ displays. I found my winner in this performance, and it seems Europe agreed, voting JJ as the champion of Eurovision 2025. Even after the victory was sealed, his winners performance remained astonishing. Deeply emotional, JJ delivered yet another spellbinding show, featuring his mesmerising falsetto. This was definitive proof that Europe made the right choice.

“Hallucination” by Sissal (Denmark)

Denmark truly brought their A-game by sending Sissal to Eurovision in Basel, and I believe she was undeniably the standout female vocalist of the event. It’s utterly perplexing why the Eurovision audience overlooked “Hallucination.” I simply cannot fathom the public’s judgment of this incredible track and performance. The striking similarities to Loreen‘s music were impossible to miss. And you would think that the Eurovision audience would rally behind Sissal’s banger because of that. But for reasons I can’t understand, Europe didn’t embrace the idea of someone delivering such a fantastic homage to Loreen (perhaps they just have a preference for the original). This sentiment was painfully clear in the lack of support for this uplifting pop anthem, as Sissal’s mesmerising performance was shamefully ignored. It’s disheartening to see Eurovision be so harsh to you, Sissal. Just know that EQ Music Blog stands by you. You are an absolute pop queen!

“Survivor” by PARG (Armenia)

This year’s Eurovision Song Contest in Basel, Switzerland, overflowed with powerful anthems, but none captured attention quite like the Armenian representative, PARG. This remarkable track “Survivor” is a stirring declaration of strength and resilience, seamlessly blending with PARG’s unique pop-rock vocal style. From the very first note, this commanding performance pierced through the dazzling display of vibrant lights and swirling smoke, ensuring PARG remained the centre of attention. It was a mesmerising journey from start to finish, solidifying PARG’s status as a standout contender in this competition. For anyone seeking an artist who embodies the same magnetic charisma as Måneskin’s Damiano David, look no further than PARG—an unforgettable musical force destined for greatness.

This was an absolute blast! Be sure to mark your calendars for the middle of May 2026. Let’s come together again to dive into another exciting Eurovision recap from the Grand Final in Austria next year.

The post EUROVISION 2025: The Grand Final appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

The excitement is building, and it’s certainly not too early to mention the E word. Yes, the Eurovision Song Contest is just around the corner! As tradition dictates, the reigning title holder, currently Nemo from Switzerland, is set to unveil a brand-new track to captivate fans before passing the prestigious crown to the next champion. This year, the spotlight will shine brightly in Basel, Switzerland, on Saturday, May 17th, for the 2025 contest. Thus making it a date you won’t want to miss!

“Casanova” marks the exciting return of Nemo, their second track since a groundbreaking Eurovision victory with “The Code.” After sharing “Eurostar” in October 2024, they continue to redefine music. With a mission centred on unfiltered authenticity. Nemo’s presence at Eurovision not only captivated audiences but also made them the first non-binary winner in the competition’s history.

Nemo wholeheartedly embraces diversity in every facet of their life, a philosophy that resonates strongly throughout their music career, which spans a vibrant alt-pop landscape. This commitment is clearly shown in the release of “Casanova.” Notably an electrifying electro-pop track brimming with an infectious bassline and catchy melodies. “Put put put put put. Your hands on my shoulders. Show me how to dance. Take me there Casanova. Te te tell me who I am.”

Above all, the song, explores the concept of stereotypes and gender identity. In this instance, namely alludes to Nemo presenting as more masculine.

“I’ve often felt people‘s expectations of me to take the lead romantically—when I actually feel much more at home on the other side of that dynamic,” they went on. “Casanova, you know where to find me.” they shared with Attitude Magazine.

Prepare for an exciting performance from Nemo at the ESC final in Basel on May 17th, where they will showcase their latest track. This song represents a transformative moment for the talented Swiss-born artist, who is currently crafting an impressive new body of work. We can therefore, eagerly anticipate this collection. And expect the body-of-work to debut at the end of 2025. This timeline is largely influenced by the rescheduling of their European tour, now taking place November 2025 instead of the spring. Don’t miss out on what promises to be a remarkable journey.

Connect with Nemo
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nemothings/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nemothings/

The post Listen to “Casanova” by Nemo appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

If you’re familiar with the renowned music mogul Simon Fuller‘s global pop group Now United, formed in 2017. You dear reader, probably know more than I do. For reasons unknown, this exciting band flew under my radar. They even opened for the S Club “Good Times” tour in the UK and Ireland, a fact I unfortunately missed. It’s worth noting that this very group provided Joalin, a talented artist and dancer hailing from a unique Finland-Mexico background, with her breakthrough opportunity. Now, she’s embarking on a solo journey, and after releasing several singles and an EP, she has just signed with Because London Records, marking an exciting new chapter in her career.

The excitement surrounding Joalin’s latest venture is palpable, as her record label is eager to highlight this remarkable talent. With impressive airplay on BBC Radio 1 and a notable performance at the Great Escape 2024, she’s on the verge of elevating her international solo career. In line with this momentum, Joalin is gearing up to release her highly anticipated mixtape, “CAMALEÓN,” on June 20th. To ignite the campaign, she’s unveiling “GUM” as the debut single, igniting anticipation for what’s to come!

With “GUM,” Joalin not only raises her solo music game but also takes a big step forward sonically, sharing her catchiest track yet. She really shines in this fusion-pop vibe, mixing English and Spanish so effortlessly that it’s up to us to appreciate this cool part of her musical identity. I think it’s a smart move for her record label to push this as Eurovision hype is ramping up. I mean, it can’t hurt, right? It seems like a clever strategy that might really pay off. Whether it’s the addictive groove or the fresh blend of styles, there’s no doubt this track will pull in listeners. Joalin covers a lot of ground and definitely keeps me wanting to hear more from her.

The video showcases Joalin in both male and female roles, brilliantly paying homage to the street dance style of popping that captivated her at just 9 years old. This striking representation highlights the profound inspirations and influences behind her artistry. With all her remarkable accomplishments to date, Joalin is undeniably poised as a popstar ready for the spotlight. With “GUM,” she firmly establishes herself at the very top of my list of must-watch newcomers in the pop scene.

Connect with Joalin
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joalinofficial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_joalin/

The post EMERGING ARTIST: Joalin appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

Revival and comeback trends seem to have a knack for lingering longer than expected. And I have to say, Sabrina Carpenter‘s viral hit “Espresso” embodies that perfectly. Although, it’s hard to blame anyone for wanting to ride this wave. Especially when bearing in mind the song has dominated pop culture for nearly a year now. For instance, Tommy Cash, slated to represent Estonia at Eurovision, just dropped his coffee-themed track “Espresso Macchiato.” It seems like a clever move, tapping into the espresso craze to draw attention. However, it’s not just Eurovision artists getting in on the action. Even American Idol runner-up David Archuleta is diving into the “Espresso” vibe with his new song “Crème Brulée.”

What’s more, David is unapologetically showcasing the clear musical similarities between his track “Crème Brulée” and Sabrina Carpenter’s “Espresso.” Rather than shying away, he embraces this connection with open arms, drawing from the carefree vibe and playful, cheeky narrative that both songs evoke. By infusing his own unique style into the mix, David creates a refreshing and lighthearted listening experience that invites fans to enjoy the joyous spirit of the track. Moreover, this gay anthem radiates a vibrant and infectious energy that is impossible to ignore.

Undoubtedly, in the months ahead, this catchy anthem has the potential to electrify gay clubs and shine at various pride events. Once people hear “Crème Brulée,” I have no doubt the LGBTQ+ community will wholeheartedly embrace it. Therefore, it would be wise to keep an eye on the viewing numbers for the entertaining Nathan Kim-directed music video. Notably, it is immensely plausible to become a massive hit. The beauty of this release lies in its simplicity; both the song and the visuals are highly unforgettable. The enthusiasm the LGBTQ+ community showed for “Espresso” clearly highlights their openness to adopting a similarly vibrant, somewhat significantly influenced track as one of their own.

Connect with David Archuleta
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/davidarchuleta/
X: https://x.com/davidarchie
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidarchie/

The post Watch “Crème Brulée” by David Archuleta appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

I’ve become increasingly enchanted by the Australian indie-pop group PEPTALK. However, it is correct to say their latest track “Figure It Out,” featuring the talented Jeremy Neale, completely took me by surprise. While I’ve always appreciated PEPTALK’s eclectic blend of alternative and pop-edged styles, this song boldly ventures into captivating synth-pop territory, dripping with an irresistible 80s aesthetic. What’s more, they masterfully inhabit this sonic realm with a sense of effortless ease. Where they craft a truly electrifying addition to their already impressive repertoire. It’s thrilling to witness their artistic evolution as they embrace new genres and collaborate with such gifted musicians.

Recently, I’ve similarly been captivated by PEPTALK’s exciting wave of collaborative releases. They’ve joined forces with Montaigne, Australia’s 2021 Eurovision participant. As well as the versatile Keiynan Lonsdale from Dance Academy and The Flash. Continuing this electrifying trend, PEPTALK has teamed up with their longtime friend, the immensely talented singer-songwriter Jeremy Neale, to create what may be their most exhilarating anthem yet. It’s truly fascinating how synth-pop becomes the canvas on which these artists unite, particularly since bearing in mind Jeremy began his journey in the music world with a garage band.

“Figure it Out” by PEPTALK feat Jeremy Neale takes listeners on a deeply nostalgic journey, reflecting on the bittersweet theme of the one that got away. It poignantly grapples with complex emotions. Through a rich and emotive lyrical narrative, the song masterfully balances the tension between hope and regret. Thus immersing the audience in a sea of poignant memories. Each line evokes vivid imagery, capturing the essence of longing and the ache of what could have been.

The overarching tone is one of bittersweet reflection, inviting listeners to confront the delicate interplay between nostalgia and acceptance. Ultimately, “Figure it Out” resonates on a profound level, encouraging us to embrace our past while finding solace in the present.

Connect with PEPTALK
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisispeptalk
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisispeptalk/

Connect with Jeremy Neale
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jnealemusic
X: https://x.com/segadreamboat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremy_neale/

The post Listen to “Figure It Out” by PEPTALK feat Jeremy Neale appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

As avid followers of EQ Music Blog know, I’m passionate about spotlighting emerging musical talents on our platform. While I take immense pride in promoting up-and-coming UK acts. My excitement truly peaks when I discover rising stars in pop, electronic, and independent scenes worldwide. Today, I’m thrilled to introduce you to Nathan Radovic, a Milan-based singer-songwriter poised to make a significant mark. A remarkable artist with Serbian-Croatian roots.

Radovic seamlessly weaves traditional Balkan influences with cutting-edge electronic sounds, creating an enchanting musical tapestry. Inspired by the evocative films of Kusturica and the pulsating nightlife of Europe. He forges a compelling sonic connection between his heritage and the vibrant energy of Milan. This is an artist you won’t want to miss; as his innovative approach instantly resonates with aplomb.

At this vibrant time of year, the landscape is flooded with emerging European pop acts eager to showcase their talents at the Eurovision Song Contest, creating a dynamic array of new and remarkable artists. Surrounded by this sea of talent, Nathan distinguishes himself with a bold, sonically innovative approach rarely seen in the European pop scene. Instead resonating deeply with the discerning aficionados of electronic pop. On balance his unique sound not only sets him apart but also elevates the genre. Thus promising an unforgettable experience for those who appreciate the artistry behind electronic music.

Sharing a captivating blend of introspection and emotional vulnerability. In essence Nathan Radovic unveils a poignant narrative that delves into the intricate dynamics of a profound emotional connection. Notably characterized by the ebb and flow of desire and longing. His latest single, “Lost,” is a mesmerizing introduction to an upcoming project that promises to reinvent sonic landscapes. Seamlessly merging innovative soundscapes with Nathan’s hallmark of deeply resonant, thought-provoking lyrics. This track not only highlights his artistic evolution. All in all also invites listeners to engage with the complexities of human emotion in an authentic and relatable way.

If you loved “Lost,” you won’t want to miss Nathan’s upcoming song “Anita,” releasing on February 7th. This track is part of a fascinating new project that dives deep into themes of introspection, connection, and innovation. Mark your calendars for Friday and be sure to follow Nathan Radovic on the links below.

Connect with Nathan Radovic
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nathanradovic
X: https://x.com/nathanradovic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanradovic/

The post EMERGING ARTIST: Nathan Radovic appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

As with every year, I like to get a head start with the preparations for Eurovision. Most notably first off, the audition and selection processes. I especially recall the buzz around the Bulgarian singer-songwriter VICTORIA. Slated to represent Bulgaria in 2020 with the entry “Tears Getting Sober“. Only for the contest to be cancelled in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, she was a much sought-after pop proposition in Bulgaria all along owing to a stint on X Factor. In her instance, carving out a music career was already on the cards.

The release of “Pity Party” coupled with a fresh aesthetic is once again shining a spotlight on VICTORIA and capturing the attention of the international music scene. In all honesty, Bulgaria often goes unnoticed in the realm of pop music, making it especially rewarding to explore the artistry of one of the country’s most exceptional talents. Typically, we find ourselves captivated by dark pop artists from the Nordic countries. Thus, VICTORIA’s presence in the global music landscape is not just refreshing; it’s truly exhilarating.

This evocative song intricately explores the journey of facing challenging emotions and the process of healing from past traumas. It emphasizes how these experiences, while painful, can ultimately lead to personal growth and resilience. The lyrics remind us that, despite the hardships of introspection and self-exploration, embracing this journey is essential for cultivating a deeper understanding of ourselves. By doing so, we equip ourselves with the tools necessary to navigate our emotions more effectively and confidently, leading to a more fulfilled and empowered life.

Similarly VICTORIA possesses a remarkable talent for expressing profound emotions, skillfully using both her vocal dynamics and her striking music videos to captivate her audience. The “Pity Party” video is a perfect blend of beauty and emotion, showcasing the calibre of an authentic pop superstar. Above all, her participation in Eurovision has significantly amplified her presence in the pop landscape. And it’s evident that VICTORIA has all the ingredients necessary to leave an unforgettable mark on the international scene.

Connect with VICTORIA
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VictoriaGeorgieva.Official/
X: https://x.com/victoriageorge_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victoriageorgievaofficial/

The post Watch “Pity Party” by VICTORIA appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

It’s almost time to dive into discussions about Eurovision again! Mark your calendars for the 2025 final, taking place on May 17th in the vibrant city of Basel, Switzerland. Before we explore this year’s exciting songs and talented contestants, let’s take a moment to celebrate past participants.

This time, let’s shine a spotlight on Sweden’s 2024 representatives, the dynamic sibling duo Marcus & Martinus. They captivated audiences and secured a remarkable 9th place with their electrifying entry, “Unforgettable.” Similarly, it’s a thrilling time for fans, and there’s so much to look forward to! This is because ahead of the 2nd leg of their highly anticipated “We Are Not The Same” (PART 2) European tour launching in March. These identical twins have also released a fresh new track titled “Wonder.”

With most of Marcus & Martinus’ releases, “Wonder” radiates an upbeat and catchy vibe that’s hard to resist. What truly struck me upon my first listen was the remarkable similarity to the style of fellow Norwegian pop group KEiiNO. This track not only brings a wave of nostalgia but also invites you to sing along with its captivating hooks. The addition of whistled interludes amplifies its infectious energy, making it impossible to forget. Overall, “Wonder” showcases their evolution as artists while capturing the essence of vibrant pop music that we simply can’t ignore.

In their latest song, the twins beautifully express the deep feelings of missing someone special. Moreover, creating an emotional resonance that is sure to touch listeners’ hearts. The music artfully blends themes of nostalgia with a euphoric melody, making it a quintessential crowd-pleaser that will undoubtedly resonate with audiences during their upcoming tour. Fans are already buzzing with excitement, as the twins have hinted at the release of more new music leading up to their March tour dates. This includes a highly anticipated sold-out performance at the renowned O2 Academy Islington in London, an iconic venue known for its vibrant atmosphere. With such a compelling lineup in store, it’s an experience fans won’t want to miss!

Connect with Marcus & Martinus
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marcusandmartinus/
X: https://x.com/marcusmartinus
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcusandmartinus/

The post Listen to “Wonder” by Marcus & Martinus appeared first on EQ Music Blog.