Weakened Friends on New Music and Queer Representation

With their highly anticipated album Feels Like Hell dropping on October 10th, Weakened Friends smashes it out of the park with their latest singles. With lyrics about breaking free from what’s not working, their newest release “Tough Luck (Bleed Me Out)” encapsulates the albums theme of both internal and external reflection. Partnering with The Ally Coalition for their upcoming tour, Weakened Friends strives to make their shows a safe space for everyone. To learn more about Weakened Friends and their upcoming album, read on.

Iris Gold: Smiling Through Adversity

Singer-songwriter Iris Gold radiates positivity not just through her personality, but through her music too. Her latest single “Smile” is a testament to her perseverance and longtime mission to make herself and others smile even when facing adversity. Including her family, friends, and youth she met during her time working with the organization Plan International Zimbabwe in the music video for “Smile” is just one way she strengthens her message. To learn more about Iris Gold and her new music, read on.

Roots & Rhythm: Shoka Sunflower on Music, Meaning, and Growth

Shoka Sunflower has always had a gift for finding light in the cracks — pairing raw emotion with melodies that linger long after the last note. Now, with his upcoming album FOR NOW KEEP DANCING, the singer-songwriter steps into a new era of vulnerability, resilience, and rhythm. In this candid conversation, Shoka opens up about the inspiration behind the project, the stories that shaped its sound, and why this album feels like both a closing chapter and a hopeful beginning.

zIssue 57.4, SWAC: InfluencerKylie MurphyAugust 25, 2025singer, singer song writer, music, growth, activismComment

Roots and Resonance: Ant Thomaz on Fatherhood, Fusion, and Finding Purpose

Some artists follow trends; others follow truth. In a world that often demands instant output and polished perfection, Ant Thomaz chooses presence, patience, and purpose. From morning meditations with his daughter to the chilled edges of the Irish Sea, his creative process is as deeply personal as it is universal. Rooted in Scotland but echoing with Louisiana soul, Ant’s story unfolds like a song—layered, honest, and impossible to ignore. Want to know what fuels the man behind the music? Read below to find out more.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 57.4Angelina DeSalvoAugust 12, 2025artists, music, fatherhood, father, songs, singer song writer, album, funk, jazz, soul, stage, performanceComment

Hillary Reynolds' Soothing Songwriting

Singer-songwriter, Hillary Reynolds, debuts her first solo album, “Changing Seasons” on August 8th. The first single off of the album, “Can’t Turn Off My Mind”, sets the tone for the albums refreshing lyrical honesty, bright sounds, and soothing melodies. Beyond the music, Reynolds helps run her mother’s breast cancer foundation, The Trina Fund. To learn more about Hillary Reynolds and her upcoming album, read on.

Pip Lewis and the Power of Emotion in Every Note

With a voice that effortlessly weaves vulnerability and strength, Pip Lewis is quickly emerging as one of the most compelling new voices in music today. Blending soulful melodies with genre-defying production, Lewis doesn’t just sing, she tells stories that resonate deeply. Whether she's performing on an intimate stage or crafting lyrics in the studio, her presence is magnetic, her sound unmistakable. As she continues to build momentum with each release, Pip Lewis is proving that she’s not just an artist to watch—she’s an artist to remember.

Raw, Real, and Unapologetically Herself: Sophia Warren on Music, Rescue, and the Quiet Rebellion of Telling the Truth

Meet Sophia Warren: singer-songwriter, activist, and rebel heart. With her newest EP Adesso, she leans into raw emotion and radical honesty, crafting songs that are messy, real, and deeply human. When she’s not making music, Sophia is fighting for animals through the nonprofit she co-founded, Animal Defenders Alliance. From challenging unethical rescue practices to rescuing dogs from crisis situations, her mission is as bold as her sound. Read more below as Sophia opens up about her journey in music, the stories behind Adesso, and why she refuses to stay quiet—onstage or off.

Ginger Winn Sings to Souls

For this singer-songwriter, song writing is more than a creative outlet, it’s a way to process emotions. Ginger Winn stuns with her surprise EP “Reflections” and new single releases from her upcoming album “Freeze Frame”. Each song from these two projects produce nothing short of raw emotion, heartbreaking honesty, and deep connection. Partnering with Rewind Kingston to donate a part of proceeds to mental health initiatives and using her music to share important resources like the 988 crisis line, there is no doubting Winn’s dedication to mental health awareness. To learn more about Ginger Winn, her upcoming music, and its story, read on.

Gregory Darling x Julian Lennon - From Melody to Mission

Born out of a spontaneous moment in the south of France, Gregory Darling and Julian Lennon’s latest release, A New Dream, has been striking the hearts of listeners with its message of courage. Collaboration is key for the two and from a bond built on mutual respect, simple shared experiences have transformed into organically crafted tunes. Beyond the recording studio, they are committed to philanthropy. Through organizations like ReLuv and the Gift of Love Foundation, they have been working on projects that blend music with activism, using art to raise awareness and create a lasting impact. Read on to learn more about Gregory Darling and Julian Lennon.

MEGG - Unfiltered, Unapologetic, and Unstoppable

With a sound that is equally fierce and fearless, MEGG has built a career on raw emotion and an edge. From growing up in a home filled with music to jumping onstage with live bands as a kid, her passion for performing was undeniable. After dropping an impressive seven singles last year, MEGG is proving that overthinking is overrated. Alongside her singles, her latest track, The End, is also an anthem for anyone battling self-doubt when life seems too good to be true. Read on to learn more about MEGG and her unique music.

KiKi Holli - Pulling Songs into the World

KiKi’s career has been a thrilling journey, from performing in Japan to co-writing and leading the cast of Forever Dusty: The Dusty Springfield Musical. Now focused on her music career, she continues to blend her rich theatrical roots with indie-pop. Her latest single, "WIN U OVER," displays this evolution. Beyond the music, KiKi’s commitment to philanthropy and advocacy is a cornerstone of her identity. Her support for LGBTQ+ initiatives through The Village and food security efforts with Project Angel Food reflects her belief that art and empathy are deeply interconnected, using her platform to uplift and inspire marginalized communities. To learn more about KiKi Holli and her upcoming projects, please read on.

SWAC: Influencer, zissue 54.4Chelsea ChanDecember 5, 2024singer song writer, music artist, musical, LGBTQ, food insecurity, empowerment, SingleComment

Charlotte Morris - Heroes or Villains

For Charlotte Morris music has always been more than just a passion but a way to connect with others. The emotional connection to songwriting is what drives her as an artist, and it's something she continues to bring to her music, especially in her latest single, "Villain." Through her music, which blends Americana, folk, and jazz, Morris aims to create an authentic expression that resonates with listeners. Beyond the music studio, Morris passionately dedicates her time to volunteering in various communities. Whether she’s caring for animals in need or engaging in political activism through phone banking, Morris believes in using her voice and actions to create a positive impact. Read on to learn more about Charlotte Morris.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 54, zissue 54.3Chelsea ChanOctober 18, 2024singer song writer, Song, songwriting, music artist, activism, vote, VolunteerComment

eaJ - Music, Rhythm, and Health

What was initially meant to be a brief visit to a Korean TV show unexpectedly transformed into a deep dive into the music world for artist eaJ. His latest track, “Right Where You Left Me,” is a reflection of his artistic evolution, striking a delicate balance between hope and melancholy. This song encapsulates eaJ's unique ability to create music that resonates with listeners on an emotional level, and as he transitions from his days with Day6 to a flourishing solo career, eaJ is delving deeper into his sound, exploring new musical paths with his upcoming EP "1/9." However, he is not only writing music but also gearing up for an exciting tour that includes the opening for Imagine Dragons at the iconic Hollywood Bowl. To learn more about his journey and what inspires his music, read on.

Emma Driver - Finding Herself Through Music

Emma Driver is the embodiment of hope and resilience. Music has been the creative outlet in her life to express her emotions and process the obstacles that life throws at her. Her return to the music scene is something you don’t want to miss. Her latest single “Try Hard” discusses her journey as a cancer survivor and what that journey taught her about herself and life. She’s a force to be reckoned with.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 54, zissue 54.3Valerie SotoSeptember 30, 2024music artist, cancer, cancer survivor, artist, singer song writer, fitnessComment

Claire London - Returning to Our Roots

From a childhood steeped in soulful blues to navigating the bustling landscapes of New York City and the glittering allure of Los Angeles, Claire’s path has been a tapestry woven with diverse influences that define her distinct sound. With the release of her latest EP, Stardust, Claire returns to her musical roots with a raw, authentic approach that resonates deeply with listeners. Beyond her music, Claire is a passionate advocate for mothers in the music industry, championing initiatives like Mamas in Music. With a career fueled by passion, authenticity, and a relentless pursuit of musical expression, Claire stands as a beacon of creativity and empowerment in today's ever-evolving musical landscape. Read on to learn more about Claire London.

Ryan Wright - Embracing Oneself

Discover the captivating musical journey of Ryan Wright, based just outside Washington D.C. in northern VA, whose upbringing immersed her in a world of music from an early age. From her father's studio sessions to her grandmother's nostalgic lullabies, Ryan's passion for music blossomed into a unique blend of indie rock and synth-pop influences. Ryan Wright’s musical journey is not just about creating captivating melodies; it's also about making a meaningful impact through her work with charitable causes, particularly in the realm of pediatric cancer research. Read on to learn more about Ryan Wright’s insights, artistic challenges, and charitable endeavors, and join her on an inspiring journey through melody, emotion, and resilience.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 54, zissue 54.2Chelsea ChanJuly 29, 2024music artist, singer song writer, cancer, tour, lyricsComment

Adelide - Finding You Through The Tune

Adelide's musical journey is a true testament to the power of passion and personal exploration. Based in Brooklyn, New York since 2019, Adelide has carved out a niche in the music industry with her distinctive blend of disco, synth-pop, and soul. Adelide's songwriting process, deeply rooted in her jazz background, unfolds beautifully, often beginning with chords that came from her creative spark. Her latest single, "Witness," exemplifies her ability to seamlessly blend inspiration with personal narrative. Beyond her music, Adelide is a passionate advocate for causes close to her heart. Her involvement with the Youngsters of Uganda (YOU) organization underscores her commitment to making a positive impact. To learn more about Adelide, read on.

Anne Stott - Beats for Change

From the serene landscapes of Wellfleet, MA, to the bustling streets of New York City, Anne Stott’s journey unfolds, driven by an unyielding passion for music, theater, and social change. Her music, a blend of grunge electric beats, 80s and 90s power chords, and atmospheric vibes reflects the contradictions and diverse influences of her life. With the release of the climate change anthem "Water To Blood," she invites listeners to confront urgent global issues while embracing the deeper themes of time and control. To delve deeper into how Anne Stott incorporates her unique beats to tackle social issues, continue reading.

Juliet Hawkins - Healing Through Lyrics

Lyrics are not mere words strung together, but rather, voices of the heart's deepest emotions. This profound sentiment forms the cornerstone of Juliet Hawkins' latest album, "Stay True." Within its melodies lie narratives of female empowerment and triumph over adversity. Yet, Juliet's lyrics transcend the confines of the recording studio. Beyond the realms of her music, she embarks on a noble movement, advocating for social justice and actively participating in volunteer initiatives. Her commitment extends far beyond the spotlight, as she tirelessly champions causes close to her heart, striving to effect positive change in the world. To learn more about Juliet Hawkins, read on.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 54, zissue 54.1Chelsea ChanApril 19, 2024music artist, singer song writer, animal, music industry, womensComment

Catherine Harrison - You Have To Walk Before You Run

Catherine Harrison will have you rocking out to her songs about love as she revives the sounds of the 70s with her music in a current new vibe. But there is more to this rock star than meets the eye. Catherine is a passionate advocate for mental health, especially within the music community, working with the Unison Fund. She is even donating all the proceeds of her new song, Love is not a Game, to them! Please read on to learn more about Catherine, her music, and how she gives back to the world.