Fusions with flavor

October 14, 2021

The music industry is one that’s constantly changing. Thousands of new ideas flow into records, challenging listeners’ expectations. Though merging together individual styles has been a known idea since Red Hot Chili Peppers, genre mixing is becoming a prominent trend in contemporary music. Mainstream artists are defining a new musical era by fusing radio pop with R&B, alternative rock, trap, soul and more. Some of the most successful, renowned fusion artists include Khalid, Billie Eilish, The Weeknd, and Halsey. Alongside these household names are 2020’s rising artists. Peach Tree Rascals are a San Jose-based group that inventively create concoctions of styles. Hence, their creative instrumentation and vocals appeal to various audiences. Their most genre-bending creations include “Mariposa” and “Mango“. Today, it has become conventional to push concrete boundaries, and the result of this ideal in both popularized and underrated music is truly brilliant. 

Passing the joy along

August 18, 2020

“A role model can teach you to love and respect yourself.”

T-Boz of TLC

As I cautiously walked into the room, clutching onto my mom’s hand, my anxious eyes were met with a cheerful, mellifluous, “Welcome!”. The idea of performing music onstage had always terrified me, and it is not an uncommon phobia for other aspiring singers either. My voice teacher at Kramer’s School of Music, Ms. Seda Bagdasarova, taught me to overcome this dispiriting fear through self-love. In the course of my journey with Ms. Seda, she showed me that you have to go out on any stage with confidence and give every performance your best shot. In addition to musical attitude, Ms. Seda transformed my general character in a positive way. Powerful role models like Ms. Seda create a world of joy to those around them.

Who has been your greatest influence? Drop a comment below!

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Spotlight: EASY FREAK

August 14, 2020

When looking for some fresh, energetic tunes, there’s no need to look further than electronic pop duo EASY FREAK. Crossing over pop, hip-hop, funk, soul, R&B, electro, house, and more, Dom Hurd and Jude Kenrick produce versatile music that virtually any listener can enjoy. The band also touches the South African music scene, with Kenrick’s South African roots and collaborations with SA-based groups. Both musicians are vocalists for their songs, but Hurd focuses on guitars while Kenrick is seen on the drums. Their single “Cap2vated” is truly captivating, and combines catchy synth-pop with a unique vocal tone. Perhaps EASY FREAK’s best work is their album “I’m Alright”, with pieces like “Let Go” and “Brother” that make listeners want to jump up on their feet! With boundless musicality and snappy beats, EASY FREAK will freak you out in an awesome way.

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