Are you feeling it too? – January can feel very long and dull. Am I right? But it’s great to know that we’re almost through it, and there’s a lot to look forward to in the coming months. I feel sure we all agree music is a great way to brighten up any day, and the past few months have seen some truly amazing releases. Therefore, it’s a good idea to take some time to appreciate the music that has helped us through the winter. And what better way to do that than listening to the newly curated “This Beat Is Poptronik 2024” playlist? Let’s turn up the volume and let some tunes lift our spirits!

This Beat is Poptronik 2024 playlist features…

We could hardly contain our excitement the other week when alt-pop’s Allie X unleashed the track “Off With Her Tits.” Not only is this song 100 per cent electronic (which makes us deliriously happy), with song lyrics powerful and thought-provoking, the song is without a doubt, the type of one-of-a-kind that only Allie X could bring to the table.

December is a difficult month to compete in, with the usual Christmas classics like Wham!, Pogues ft Kirsty McColl, Mariah Carey, and Michael Buble taking up their annual chart residence. At the time, it didn’t make sense why Olly Alexander (Years & Years) should release the track “A Very Bad Fun Idea” other than it being the title track from the upcoming movie “Bonus Track.” It’s bittersweet to note the song didn’t chart. Although, within a week of the track dropping we found out Olly is to represent the UK at Eurovision this year. 

The whole debate about whether Ariana Grande sampled Madonna‘s “Vogue” or not became quite heated. However, in my opinion, she just channels the iconic song. But I do think that there is a clear tribute to Paula Abdul in the video. The video seems to be directly inspired by the one Abdul recorded in 1988 for her song “Cold Hearted“. It’s great to see present-day pop divas paying tribute to their peers. And that’s why “yes, and?” deserves to be highly placed on the “This Beat Is Poptronik 2024” playlist.

Whatever you do, you should not miss these gems from Nic Billington, Bright Light Bright Light, Margaret Berger, Dua Lipa, Oh Land, Samira and Sophie Ellis-Bextor.

Some emerging artists for your radar…

Classically trained artist Micah McLaurin switches it up. Takes a leap into the future with debut disco-pop anthem “MOONS.” Micah is the embodiment of living life authentically as he celebrates the song’s message of realizing the freedom to love. Since “MOONS” just got the remix treatment from Troye Sivan collaborator/RuPaul’s Drag Race songwriter and producer Leland. Therefore, concerning Micah, I feel it’s fair to say, watch this space…

In fact, it would be rather strange if Talia Mar were not one to watch out for in 2024. With her talent and versatility, she is sure to make a significant impact. I didn’t really connect with the debut singles a lot simply because they didn’t appeal to me style-wise. However, the latest release, “Bored“, hones a noughties banger aesthetic that in my opinion gives off Sugababes vibes.

Tsatsamis is an emerging electronic artist who exhibits a unique sound and style. It is a good idea to have him on your radar. Especially bearing in mind a sophomore EP, “Our Shame“, is out soon. In the meantime, however, I highly recommend checking out the recent releases, “Everybody Wants a Piece of You” and “Let Go.” A rising star in electronic music, Tsatsamis utilizes a style both distinctive and unique, inspired by queer culture and sexual identity. He also just remixed the track “You Want My...” for Bright Light Bright Light. Similarly, with such a fantastic endorsement from Rod (he has impeccable taste,) we know we are doing right by backing Tsatsamis. 

Keep looking in at EQ Music Blog for “This Beat Is Poptronik” Playlist updates throughout 2024. In the meantime, we wish you many hours of happy listening to the tracks we have curated on Spotify HERE.

The post STREAM IT! “This Beat Is Poptronik – 2024” Playlist appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

Readers of this music blog will know that as much as electronic pop rocks my world, as one of my most favoured music styles. I also enjoy exploring different genres and discovering new artists as well. For instance, I recently discovered Ghostryder, an LA-based independent artist making waves in the indie-pop and singer-songwriter genres. After I stumbled upon his tracks, I was instantly blown away. It only took a few songs for me to become a new fan.

Lately, I have really enjoyed the work of this up-and-coming artist, particularly after giving the debut EP, “Why,” (which came out last year) a listen. It became clear to me from the outset there is something worth checking out in Ghostryder’s music for fans of Leland, JORDY, and Greyson Chance.

The focus of his work has now shifted from writing for others to his own solo project. This year he is concentrating on growing his artistry in earnest with more new music offerings. His latest release, “Ghostme,” is a powerful reflection, an unflinching look at the aftermath of a breakup. As he recovers from being heartbroken, his lyrics and vocals capture the raw emotions of the experience.

“Now I don’t know what took you so long. Damn we were so close, but still so far. So hung up on the things you say. I wanna drown your taste in gatorade. I’ll give you .5 seconds to rest your case before you go… you go ghost me,” he sings

Ghostryder’s music is emotionally moving and demonstrates his considerable talent as a solo artist. The way he blends modern sounds and profound narratives in his music is a simply brilliant display of his undeniable talent and is proof positive, that he is a rising star in the music industry.

As an artist just beginning to realize his full potential with songs like “Ghostme“, Ghostryder is most assuredly set to make an immediate impression. I highly recommend taking a listen to his music. I assure you, it won’t disappoint.

Connect with Ghostryder
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whyghostryder
Twitter: https://twitter.com/whyghostryder
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whyghostryder/

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

He spends so much time as a songwriter of other artists and observing their subsequent successes. Every time Leland puts out a solo effort of his own, I let out a little cheer. The last chance I got to write about him was in 2019 when releasing the song “Another Lover“. Although his other contributions to other artists’ tracks know no abounds. Includes appearing on Troye Sivan’s “In A Dream” EP and numerous iconic RuPaul Drag Race season songs (among others). In fact, until the week leading up to the “Bad At Letting Go” release, he did not update on his solo career in a long time.

I know it was promised pre-pandemic, but once again, Leland has hinted at his debut EP, which will be out this year. Therefore, I hazard a guess “Bad At Letting Go” will feature in the impending extended-release.

“The song takes place within the blip of time where a relationship has just ended, but you and your now ex are the only people who know it. You put a pause on processing the breakup and channel all of that emotion into a crisis induced dance where you feel everything, and nothing”. Leland comments in a statement on the Peter Thomas co-write and produced track.

He works in so many different styles, but when it comes to his solo work, there is only one way to go. Channelling the 80s pop style with an opus of synths joining in as his musical companion. Although other than his excellent songwriting, he found another way to have the track stand out. The introduction section is punchy with piano stabs, that perk up ears as if to alert them that a tidal wave of powerhouse pop is about to arrive.

My hope is that by the end of the year, Leland will no longer be remembered as the writer behind the hits. Rather as one of the brightest new stars in the music industry, instead.

Connect with Leland:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LelandOfficial
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LelandOfficial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leland

The post Listen to “Bad At Letting Go” by Leland appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

The horrible truth is, I have a need to be extra selective with my music choices to write about at the moment. I am preparing to go away on my summer holiday in a few days. Thus, my time is at a premium just now. More than ever, I am sharing with our readers the new music which strikes a chord with me most. It may surprise readers that I am digging into a song written to promote a leading cannabis-infused beverage in collaboration with Weedmaps. But not without good reason, I am gunning for this track. Founded by queer people, Drink Producer Cann is an established company. They launch their pride campaign for 2022 with the anthem “Taste So Good” (The Cann Song). The song and video feature an all-star diverse cast from the LGBTQ+ community.

Independent pop singer-songwriter VINCINT is joined by Hayley Kiyoko and MNEK on this Leland-penned track. Also along for the ride is pop royalty Kesha, who links up for a verse of her own.

Botanical infused beverages may not appeal to everyone. That said. The market for drinks boosting health benefits such as those associated with CBD is starting to fill up supermarket shelves alongside hard seltzer and kombucha. It is an immense growth area and strand of the plant-based revolution. It was only a matter of time before drinks of these kinds received the full-blown promotion treatment to rival Coca Cola and Pepsi.

The lyrics
“A little different can taste so good (taste so good). What a feeling (I knew it would, I knew it would).” Also, apply when celebrating our differences. And why in this campaign, support from the LGBTQ+ community works two-fold.

The track is that good. That if we were to block out all mentions of the drink campaign, the song would still hold up on its own and proudly.

The song got me pure and simple. Together with the rallying message it sends. Why else would I commit to writing about a product available in the USA only and not the UK, where I am based? “Taste So Good” primary use may be that of an advertisement, but I’ll say this. The track from VINCINT ft Hayley Kiyoko and MNEK is a whole lot better than many of the pop songs released in recent weeks.

Connect with VINCINT
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vincintmusic
Twitter: https://twitter.com/VINCINT_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vincint/

Connect with Hayley Kiyoko
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HayleyKiyoko/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/hayleykiyoko
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayleykiyoko

Connect with MNEK
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MNEKOfficial
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MNEK
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MNEK/

The post Watch “Taste So Good” (The Cann Song) by VINCINT ft Hayley Kiyoko and MNEK appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

Although he gave us plenty of music in 2020 & 2021. We haven’t heard much from Troye Sivan in recent months. He hasn’t shared much online lately. But he brought us something brand new last night. The track “Trouble.” A collaboration with the dream-pop artist Jay Som. We only had a brief warning about the track’s arrival before it landed. Troye reached out to his Instagram followers to announce the movie “Three Months” (he stars in) airs on Paramount Plus, February 23rd. When the trailer clip for the film became available, we also found out he has two new original songs appearing in this coming-of-age film.

“Three Months” is a coming-of-age film about Caleb (played by Troye Sivan), a South Florida teen. On the eve of his high school graduation, everything changes when he’s exposed to HIV. While he waits three months for his results, he finds love in the most unlikely of places”.

Troye took to social media last night to premiere the track “Trouble.” The release is one of Troye’s more indie-leaning efforts. The songs indie dream-pop sound makes Jay Som’s contribution seem much more than just adding vocals and being on the writing team with Leland, Kaelyn Behr. It suggests Som’s input extends to the overall musicality of the piece also.

As you’d expect of a song that appears on a film soundtrack. The lyrics provide hints of the plotline to the movie. The opening lines of “Trouble” are a good example. “Accidental lover. What’d you do with all my common sense? You came in undercover when I didn’t even want a friend,” Troye laments.

The overall dreaminess of the track stirs up feelings of euphoria mixed with vulnerability. A combination we have seen work brilliantly for Troye in the past. Coming-of-age movies are often poignant and emotionally laden also. So this vibe ticks all the right boxes and fits well.

Connect with Troye Sivan
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/troyesivan
Twitter: https://twitter.com/troyesivan
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/troyesivan/

Connect with Jay Som
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaysommusic
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jaysomband
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaysomband/

The post Listen to “Trouble” by Troye Sivan and Jay Som appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

The minute I began reading the press release introducing BLEACHx and his debut single “Dead Inside“. I knew the track would be a hot listen without needing to press play. Mainly because I remember having written about the LA-based singer-songwriter previously. Launching his solo artist project, songwriter to the stars Jeremy Thurber has assumed the new moniker of BLEACHx. I already knew his CV is impressive. Lists, major hits on JPop/Kpop scene (songwriter) collaborated/worked with Meghan Trainor, Greyson Chance and Jake Miller.

Like with most songwriters, there comes a time when a gear change seems desirable. The fulfilment of seeing your work through as your own creation through and through. Writing, recording, performing it under your own esteem. The level of self-satisfaction is much greater when embarking upon a solo project than when seeing someone else put their vocals on your thoughtfully written lyrics. Songwriters have an instant emotional attachment to their lyrics. It is only natural that they would want to express these feelings through vocals and performance as well. Thus BLEACHx was born from a place of wanting to “bleach” his past and start fresh. The career move also allows Thurber to write from a more personal perspective.

BLEACHx is playing his pop A game for “Dead Inside“. Thurber shares the art form of delivering poignant lyrics, served alongside a jaunty earworm styled, catchy melody. (A strategy often used in pop and works like a dream on this track).

“Dead Inside” is a fun song that is a culmination of all the genres and writing styles I love, and a goodbye to all the negative feelings I had inside. I wanted something dark and maniacal you could also dance to. When I wrote it, my dad passed away, and my BF left me because he couldn’t deal with the grief of it all, and it was exactly how I felt inside.” – BLEACHx

Jeremey Thurber / BLEACHx might be one of the most engaging pop newcomers you have never heard of. But if you are a fan of Leland or JORDY (the vibes are somewhat similar to both), I would advise you to check him out.

Connect with BLEACHx
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Bleachxmusic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bleachxmusic/

The post Emerging Artist: BLEACHx appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

You’d kind of expect two Dutchmen, musicians to link-up in collaboration wouldn’t you? Although maybe not especially so when one is Grammy-nominated, influential EDM, trance guy Armin van Buuren, while the other is the winner of Eurovision 2019, Duncan Laurence. Since his Eurovision win in Tel Aviv, Duncan has released a clutch of singles and his “Worlds on Fire” EP. Efforts, concentrating on the singer-songwriter vibes he has since become recognised for. Even though the Netherlands is regarded as a hotbed of EDM music. There has been no inkling, of any electronic stylizing, being welcomed in by Duncan. This was changed when Armin and Duncan crossed paths at an awards show. They consequently met up in the studio, worked on some demos and “Feel Something” came about.

The song appears on Duncan’s newly released debut album “Small Town Boy.” Although it’s groove is musically several steps away and bolder than the other twelve tracks which feature on the release. “Feel Something” appearance towards the end of the album hints at a possible change of direction on future tracks, maybe.

What we now know is, with the backing of bolder, electronic beats behind him, the emotiveness and vulnerability felt in Duncan’s vocals, transcends above. In this respect “Feel Something” continues to sit within the lyrical singer-songwriter zone which encompasses the album. The song co-written with Leland talks about loneliness but where he’d rather, feel something than be numb. Does this mean, he is open to experience feelings of heartbreak, I guess it does, if it sparks off emotions within?

“Feel Something” doesn’t necessarily feel like an Armin van Buuren track either. The synth-pop groove is not of the usual familiar sound, we associate with the Dutch EDM heavyweight. It feels like the track, has been an act of experimentation for both featured artists. Where the outcome was worked out favourably for everyone involved.

Perspex cube boxes and neon lights are the focus of the visuals. A, nod to the tracks, sense of remoteness. Also, a safe and eye-catching way of being social distance compliant and being able to tick off the health and safety checkbox.

Connect with Armin van Burren
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arminvanbuuren
Twitter: https://twitter.com/arminvanbuuren
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arminvanbuuren/

Connect with Duncan Laurence
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itsduncanlaurence/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/dunclaurence
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsduncanlaurence/

Now that’s what I call electronic pop!

Only the best new pop, electronic and indie music makes it onto our This Beat Is Poptronik Spotify playlists.

Curated by Mandy Rogers and Raj Rudolph from EQ Music – This Beat Is Poptronik is your must-listen-to playlist to download on-the-go.

Turn it up and tune everything else out.

Follow us on Spotify!

The post Watch “Feel Something” by Armin van Buuren ft Duncan Laurence appeared first on EQ Music Blog.

Remember all the buzz which was created around the Greg Berlanti directed, movie “Love, Simon” Feels only like yesterday, doesn’t it? The 2018 ‘coming out’ movie was endeared by many. As a lighter gay-themed movie it moreover resonated with feel-good vibes, because of the witty, way it had been written. Boys On Film (Phil and Raj) reviewed the film as part of the BFI Flare Festival coverage. (The link on it is HERE if you wish to go check it out.) From the same writers, the spin-off web series “Love, Victor” premiered on Hulu last week. I did notice, quite a splash was being made about the original soundtrack and the official theme song “Somebody to Tell Me” which were released on Friday.

The theme song along with two other original tracks have been all written and produced by Leland (Brett McLaughlin) and Jordan Palmer. I am having a hard time choosing one of these three, I best prefer. So I’m just going to speak a little about all three of the new songs.

Neon Trees lead vocalist Tyler Glenn takes up the reigns on “Love, Victor” theme song “Somebody to Tell Me.” As the banner song for the series, the melody is suitably catchy, in a modern pop style and easily, taps itself into the brain. While the lyrics give an overview of the premise about the show. Of figuring out identity and seeking acceptance.

The track “Athlete” is co-written and performed by Greyson Chance. A poignant, dreamy, slow number. Made this way to make the most of those gorgeous deeper registering vocals as much as the pristine, gleaming, falsetto notes. The lyrics, like much of Greyson’s own recent works, are suitably yearning. Brimming with poetry and emotiveness. There are still are people who haven’t caught onto Greyson Chance yet, believe it or not! Landing this spot on this soundtrack feels as though it might be his next major breakthrough.

Isaac Dunbar is another brooding, yet charismatic newcomer, who I have yet to write about. Following in the footsteps trodden by Troye Sivan, seventeen-year-old Dunbar traverses the mellow pop genre. Writing songs tackling topics like insecurity and the desire to fit in, and of growing up. He’s hot on-trend, inspirational and endearing with it. I was going to write him up as an emerging artist anyways, we need to keep an eye on him. Placement on the “Love, Victor” soundtrack with “God, This feels Good,” is the single the biggest, profile raiser for the rising-artist. The song could have easily been recorded by Troye Sivan, as has the more sultry feel, in keeping with his latest releases. This is a huge step for a relative newbie. Isaac is serving such major, cool vibes, with his dreamy genre-bending style. Quite possibly the next big thing in music. That’s why he’s been scouted out for this soundtrack. And, rightly so.

Connect with Tyler Glenn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tyler.glenn/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tylerinacoma
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tylerinacoma/

Connect with Greyson Chance
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GreysonChance/
Twitter: @greysonchance
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/GreysonChance/

Connect with Isaac Dunbar
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/isaacdunbarofficial/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/IsaacDunbar
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/isaacdunbar/

Now that’s what I call electronic pop!

Only the best new pop, electronic and indie music makes it onto our This Beat Is Poptronik Spotify playlists.

Curated by Mandy Rogers and Raj Rudolph from EQ Music – This Beat Is Poptronik is your must-listen-to playlist to download on-the-go.

Turn it up and tune everything else out.

Follow us on Spotify!

The post Listen to Songs from “Love,Victor” (Original Soundtrack appeared first on EQ Music Blog.