Tag: pop music

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Pride Music: Mika “Ice Cream”

Out singer/songwriter Mika drops his perfect-for-summer new single, “Ice Cream,” in advance of his upcoming album, My Name Is Michael Holbrook.

The Lebanese-born artist calls the song “a daydream fantasy” that was borne during a sweltering August in Italy. “It shimmers like a mirage, and makes me feel like anything is possible,” adds the 35-year-old singer.

The song came to him near the end of a two-year writing period. After musically exploring some serious, personal issues in his writing, Mika says he felt “lighter and freer” and escape was on his mind.

“I wanted to run away to the sea, or just about anywhere,” says Mika.

Instead, Mika sat down and dreamed about “summer flings” and “the other person I always wish I was during the summer.” But with no air conditioning, Mika mainly recalls the heat, the sweat, work deadlines and bee stings – all of which gets referenced in the bouncy bop’s lyrics.

Mika (photo: Peter Lindbergh)

With a solid bass beat and a hooky, falsetto-filled chorus, “Ice Cream” sounds like the sonic lovechild of 90s George Michael and Prince tunes.

The lyric video is a groovy melange of bold, playful graphics that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

Released at the beginning of Pride Month, the timing couldn’t be more perfect as Mika wants his fans to “dare to be the more proud version of yourself.”

“Dare to be a sensual man, dare to express out loud the desires you always keep inside your head,” says the UK-based artist.

Mika first grabbed the spotlight in 2007 when he released his first album, Life in Cartoon Motion. The first single, “Grace Kelly,” went to number one in the UK and eleven other countries, and earned him a Brit Award and a Grammy nomination.

Since then, he’s been certified Gold and Platinum in 32 countries worldwide.

My Name Is Michael Holbrook, Mika’s fifth studio album, drops on October 4. Mika will follow its release with a world tour beginning in London on November 10.

Check out the new track below and let us know what you think in the comments.

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New Music: Netta “Nana Banana”

I always have an interesting reaction to new releases by Israeli recording artist Netta, who gained worldwide fame as the winner of the 2018 Eurovision Song contest. You'll recall her breakout hit "Toy," complete with chicken clucks and more, which continues to generate millions of views each month. Her latest release, "Nana Banana," seems like another kind of novelty song, but I watched the lyric video all the way to the end, so something drew me in.

I always have an interesting reaction to new releases by Israeli recording artist Netta, who gained worldwide fame as the winner of the 2018 Eurovision Song contest.

You’ll recall her breakout hit “Toy,” complete with chicken clucks and more, which continues to generate millions of views each month.

Her latest release, “Nana Banana,” seems like another kind of novelty song, but I watched the lyric video all the way to the end, so something drew me in.

According to press materials, the lyrics are represent Netta’s own “quest to find a safe place outside her comfort zone in the wake of the Eurovision win.”

Hit play below and see what you think.

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Madonna’s “I Rise” Is An Empowering Anthem For Pride

Madonna drops the second single, “I Rise,” from her upcoming album, Madame X.

Acknowledging the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall riots in New York City, the Queen of Pop dedicates the song to “all marginalized people who feel they don’t have the opportunity to speak their mind.”

In a statement, Madonna says the positive message of the track “encourages all individuals to be who they are, to speak their minds and to love themselves.”

The new track begins with a sample of openly bisexual high school student Emma Gonzales’s famous quote at a rally shortly after the deadly mass shooting at her school in Parkland, Florida.

“They say us kids don’t know what we’re talking about, that we’re too young to understand how the government works. We call BS!”

The single’s release comes just a day before Madge will be honored with the Advocate for Change Award at the 30th Annual GLAAD Media Awards in New York City on May 4. Madonna is the second person and first woman to ever receive this recognition, which is awarded to a person who changed the game for LGBTQ people around the world through their work.

“I Rise” follows the release of “Medellín,” Madonna’s collaboration with Latin pop star Maluma.

Before the album’s release on June 14, Madonna has announced three more tracks will drop: “Crave” on May 10, dance track “Future” on May 17, and “Dark Ballet” on June 7.

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Madonna & Maluma’s “Medellín” Is Some Sexy Wedding Goodness

Madonna dropped her new music video, “Medellín,” Wednesday featuring Colombian reggaeton star Maluma, who is waaaay sexy.
Madonna and Maluma in “Medellín”

Madonna dropped her new music video, “Medellín,” Wednesday featuring Colombian reggaeton star Maluma, who is waaaay sexy. The video, from her upcoming album Madame X, begins with a long shot of the pop queen praying in the distance: “Dear God, how could I trust anyone after years of disappointment and betrayal?” she whispers. “How could I not want to run away again and again? Escape. I will never be what society expects me to be.” #ClassicMadonna “Now, I’m Madame X, and Madame X loves to dance,” she concludes her prayer. “Because you can’t hit a moving target.” Cut to Madge leading a dance class in her eye-patch wearing persona of Madame X, where she meets Maluma. At this point, it’s important to repeat that Maluma is uber-charming and smoking hot.

Madonna finds Maluma way sexy, too

The dance lesson leads to some mattress dancing (which may or may not involve toe licking), and eventually a wild, raucous carnival wedding party. In between, Madge dances opposite a horse in a darkened arena, which may or may not have a clearer meaning at another time…? Did I mention that Maluma is way hot? But despite rumors that he might be gay, the Latin pop-star has laughed at those allegations. The duo will perform “Medellín” live at the 2019 Billboard Awards on May 1. And this isn’t the only collaboration with Maluma. He’s also featured on another Madame X track, “Bitch I’m Loca.” Squeeee!!! Madame X, Madonna’s 14th studio album, drops June 14.

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New Music: Parker Matthews Proves Nobody Is “Running From Me”

Parker Matthews in ‘Running From Me’

Out singer/songwriter Parker Matthews debuts his latest single and music video, “Running From Me.”

I’ve been listening (and watching) the talented musician since he proved he’s definitely no “Hit and Run” last May, and he’s had me “Feelin’ Right” ever since.

In each release, Matthews consistently brings top-shelf production, pop-synth goodness and a hooky chorus with smooth vocal delivery.

Music writers agree:

“An infectious slice of pop music” – Music Is My Radar

“Pop music just might have found its next star in Parker Matthews” – The Musical Hype

“Matthews’ confidence in his sexuality glows onscreen” – Pop Dust

I chatted with the handsome singer about “Running From Me,” the power of confidence and the importance of vibe in a recording session.

The Randy Report: After bouncy upbeat bops like “Hit and Run” and the liquid-sexy “Feelin’ Right,” your new single “Running From Me” is a dance floor banger. Do you plan on switching it up or is just this how the music comes?

Parker Matthews: I think I’ve grown a lot as an artist and had a great time exploring the different sides of who I am, and what I want to write.

This record was a very defining one for me, not only because it’s the first of some amazing new material I have on the way, but also because I wanted to instill a sense on confidence in the listener.

I wrote this record based off a personal story of mine, but I want the listener to realize that they hold the power and the confidence to do whatever they want because with that mentality, nobody’s gonna be running from them.

TRR: You dance in the new music video – is this the first time fans see you bust a move other than some party bouncing in “Hit and Run?”

PM: It was so great! I grew up dancing, and to be able to be on camera doing that was absolutely thrilling. My team and I brought in some incredible dance talent and I will definitely be bringing that vibe onto future records/ videos as well.

TRR: Your lyrics tend to express confidence in yourself. Are you as confident in real life?

 PM: You know, it’s interesting… When I’m being the artist side of me as ‘Parker Matthews’ on a shoot or on stage, I am super outgoing and confident. However, when I’m just with my friends, or out for the night, I’m pretty quiet and always kinda stay in the background.

Somebody told me that you’re trying to own me
But I’m never lonely cause ain’t nobody running from me
And don’t say you know how to win over me now
You know that I don’t don’t bow cause ain’t nobody running from me

TR: At this point, do you have a “process” in writing/recording? Or is every project approached differently?

PM: Every record has a general outline of being written and recorded the same way, but at the same time, it’s always a little different. A lot of the time, when writing, I’ll start with the chorus, and build from there.

However, for “Running From Me,” I actually started with the very first line of the record, ‘You make me feel like everybody’s watching me…’ and I sat down and went from there.

When it comes to recording, I am all about the VIBE. Depending on what studio I’m in, I make sure all the candles are lit and we’re going in on that session. Having a good vibe during a recording session really translates to the record, in my opinion.

TRR: Who are you listening to today? Who’s at the top of your playlist?

PM: I’m listening to a little bit of everything right now. If the record speaks to me, I’ll get down with it for sure.

I love pop and dance music, but I also love a good power ballad, much like the record I have coming next (hint hint, wink wink). Thank you and the LGBTQ community for you amazing support!

You can follow Parker Matthews on Instagram here, Facebook here and check out his official website here.

“Running From Me“ is now available on iTunes and all digital download sites.

And you can check out my podcast interview with Parker by clicking the play button below.

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First Listen: Madonna’s New Single “Medellín” Featuring Maluma

Get your first listen to the latest from Madonna - the lead single from her upcoming album, Madame X, titled, “Medellín.”
Maluma and Madonna sing “Medellín”

Get your first listen to the latest from Madonna – the lead single from her upcoming album,

Madame X, titled, “Medellín.”

The track is a collaboration with Colombian pop star/hunk, Maluma. Hit the play button below.



The Queen of Pop also shared the release date for the albumwill be June 14.

Madame X will be the “Vogue” singer’s 14th studio album, and first since Rebel Heart dropped in 2015.

The track list for Madame X (via Instagram)
The track list for Madame X (via Instagram)

The track had its debut on Apple Music’s Beats1 with Zane Lowe.

Minutes before the debut of the song, Madge tweeted a reminder to her fans featuring her hunky duet partner, calling the event a “World Record.”

As I recently reported, Madonna has been confirmed to perform two songs at the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel.

One track will be from her catalogue and the second from Madame Xduring the song contest’s grand finale on May 18.

Israeli-Canadian billionaire Sylvan Adams offered to cover the cost of presenting Madonna pointing to the visibility it will bring Israel.

The Jerusalem Post reported the pop star asked for $1 million to perform.

Maluma and Madonna (image via Instagram)

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Madonna’s Newest Album Casts The Pop Icon As Secret Agent ‘Madame X’

Madonna becomes secret agent ‘Madame X’ for her next album

Madonna thrilled her fans this weekend as she teased the title and feel for her next album with a mysterious, stylized video clip.

In the video posted to her social media, Madge shares the news at a table of friends, “I’ve decided to call my record Madame X.”

As various characters or alter egos in elaborate costumes appear on the screen, we hear Madge say, “Madame X is a secret agent traveling around the world, changing identities, fighting for freedom, bringing light to dark places.”

She goes on to rattle off a list of identities that the enigmatic secret agent embodies.

“She is a dancer, a professor, a head of state, a housekeeper, an equestrian, a prisoner, a student, a mother, a child, a teacher, a nun, a singer, a saint, a whore, and a spy – in the house of love.”

In a simple summation, “I’m Madame X.”

The video also features Madonna singing a new song, a piano-driven piece with the lyrics, “The thing that hurts the most / is that I wasn’t lost.”

The 60-year-old pop star followed up the announcement with a couple of quick clips of the mysterious ’Madame X.’

For several weeks now, the queen of pop has posted various hints on her Twitter and Instagram accounts about the new project which now come into clearer focus.

No street date announced yet, but with this announcement we’re guessing the first single could come soon.

Madame X follows the 2015 release Rebel Heart, and will be Madonna’s 14th studio album.

More identities by Madonna’s ‘Madame X’

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New Music: Dido “Give You Up”

Dido has released the gorgeous music video of her latest single, “Give You Up.”

“It’s just so perfect,” Dido says of the track. “It’s a good break up song, where you’ve been hurt but feel strong. It’s that point in a relationship where you are pulling yourself out of the gutter and deciding that it’s their loss. Which I can totally relate to.”

The video’s rich, saturated visuals are a perfect complement to Dido’s exquisite vocals.

Dido will launch a world tour beginning in Chicago on June 13.

Still On My Mind (out March 8) is Dido’s 5th studio album.

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Valentine Tune: Linda Eder “Vienna”

Linda Eder performs “Vienna”

Today being Valentine’s Day, I wanted to post some romantic musical moment to share.

I’ve always been a fan of a big 80/90s pop ballad and, of course, Broadway.

Which puts this clip right in the sweet spot.

I hadn’t heard Linda Eder’s vocal opus “Vienna” in a while, and came across this concert video from a few years back.

Eder first came to fame winning the 1988 edition of the TV talent show Star Search. She later met and married Frank Wildhorn, who would become her writer/producer and husband.

She starred in Wildhorn’s Broadway musical Jekyll & Hyde and developed quite the huge cult following.

“Vienna” was written in the 80s, but Eder didn’t release the epic track until her 1991 self-titled album. The song became one of her most requested in her catalogue.

While she doesn’t have the acting chops of a Streisand, to whom she was often compared early in her career, she certainly can sing her face off. She’s the real deal.

I think I wore a hole in the CD back in the day listening to this over and over. The key change around the 4:00 mark is pretty impressive.

Enjoy below.

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P!nk Announces New Album And Previews 1st Single, “Walk Me Home,” On ELLEN

Sitting down with Ellen this week, international pop-star P!nk announced she has a new album called "Hurts to Be Human" coming out in the spring, and even sang an impromptu preview of the first single, "Walk Me Home."
International pop-star, P!nk

OMG, I love me some P!nk.

Sitting down with Ellen DeGeneres this week, international pop-star P!nk announced she has a new album called Hurts to Be Human coming out in the spring, and even offered an impromptu preview of the first single, “Walk Me Home.”

The singer chatted with Ellen about her 17-year relationship & marriage with husband Carey Hart; how if she were “truly happy” she would be ‘useless’ as a songwriter and artist; plus how she’s really good at getting nominated for Grammys.

To be clear, though, she has won 3 Grammys out of 20 nominations. I’m guessing she’s just feeling a bit of the dry spell since her last trophy win in 2010.

But, she’s totally charming and fun. If you haven’t seen P!nk in concert, make sure you do next time she’s nearby. The best pop concerts I’ve ever attended.

Watch below.