Home Blog Page 596

How to Build a Professional Home Recording Studio on a Budget

Eric Alper
-
0

By Mitch Rice

The gap between professional studios and home setups has never been smaller. With the right approach, indie artists, producers, and engineers can create high-quality recordings without draining their bank accounts. It’s not about having every piece of gear—it’s about knowing what truly matters and how to use it well.

In this guide, we’ll break down what you actually need to start producing pro-level sound at home. You’ll learn how to treat your space, choose the right tools, and make smart upgrades over time. And yes—framed acoustic panels come into play, but more on that soon.

The Foundation of Great Recordings

Before we dive into gear, it’s important to understand that sound quality starts at the source. A great performance in a quiet, controlled space always beats a weak take in a fancy room. You can’t fix bad audio in the mix. That’s why even budget studios need to prioritize room treatment and smart mic techniques.

Great recordings are built on three things: a good performer, a clean signal path, and a space that doesn’t fight the sound. Keep that in mind as you plan your setup.

Essential Equipment Without Breaking the Bank

You don’t need racks of gear or a massive mic locker. Here’s how to build a lean setup that still punches above its weight.

Microphones That Deliver Professional Results

A solid large-diaphragm condenser mic should be your first buy. Options like the Audio-Technica AT2020 or Rode NT1 are workhorses that sound far more expensive than they are. If you’re recording vocals, acoustic instruments, or even podcasts, this kind of mic gives you the detail and clarity you need.

Dynamic mics like the Shure SM57 or SM58 are also essential. They’re durable, affordable, and great for louder sources like amps and drums.

Audio Interfaces for Home Studios

Your audio interface is the bridge between your mic and your computer. Stick to models from Focusrite, PreSonus, or MOTU for clean preamps and low-latency performance. You don’t need a dozen inputs—just one or two quality channels will do to start.

Bonus tip: Get one with direct monitoring so you can hear yourself in real-time without latency.

Monitoring Solutions on a Tight Budget

Good monitors and headphones let you actually hear what’s going on in your mix. For tight budgets, headphones like the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x or the Sennheiser HD280 Pro are solid choices.

If you’re ready for monitors, consider the JBL 305P MkII or the Kali Audio LP-6. They offer great accuracy at a price that won’t make you flinch.

Acoustic Treatment for Professional Sound Quality

Even the best gear won’t help if your room sounds like a cave. The goal of acoustic treatment isn’t soundproofing—it’s to control reflections, standing waves, and muddiness.

Understanding Room Acoustics

Every room has a sound. Some are harsh and echoey; others are boomy and unclear. What you want is a balanced space—where the sound of your voice or instrument comes through clean without bouncing all over the place.

Hard surfaces like bare walls and windows create reflections that smear your sound. That’s where acoustic treatment comes in.

DIY Acoustic Solutions That Work

You don’t have to spend thousands. Thick moving blankets, dense foam panels, and homemade bass traps made from rock wool insulation can work wonders. The key is using enough material and placing it where it actually helps.

Framed acoustic panels are a particularly good investment. They’re more effective than thin foam and look clean and professional in any space. If you’re handy, you can even build them yourself with wood, fabric, and insulation.

Strategic Placement for Maximum Impact

Treat the first reflection points—side walls, ceiling, and behind the mic. Then, handle the low end with bass traps in the corners. Don’t treat every inch of the room. It’s about control, not deadening the space entirely.

Optimizing Your Recording Space

You’ve got the gear and the treatment—but now it’s time to think like a studio designer. Where you set up matters just as much as what you set up.

Room Selection and Setup

Start by picking the quietest room in your place. Avoid spaces with HVAC noise, street traffic, or shared walls if possible. A smaller room with irregular shapes is often better than a big, square echo chamber.

Place your desk and monitors along the short wall, facing into the length of the room. This gives your sound waves more space to travel and reduces bass build-up behind you.

Controlling Unwanted Noise and Reflections

If you’re near a busy street or have paper-thin walls, try layering sound barriers. Thick curtains, bookshelves filled with stuff, and even area rugs help. Seal gaps around windows and doors. Use weather stripping or foam tape—cheap fixes that cut down the outside noise.

Reflections are trickier. Add absorption panels behind the mic and above your setup. Avoid recording too close to walls unless they’re treated. Even a few inches can make a difference in clarity.

Creating Isolation on a Budget

Isolation isn’t just about blocking outside noise—it’s also about keeping your sound clean going out. If you’re recording vocals, consider building a DIY vocal booth with moving blankets and PVC pipes. Or throw a thick blanket over a mic stand to make a quick reflection filter.

You can also record during quieter hours. Late nights or early mornings give you cleaner takes with less interruption. It’s not glamorous, but it works.

Recording Techniques That Elevate Your Productions

Now that your space is set up, let’s discuss how you record matters more than what you record.

Microphone Positioning Secrets

Mic technique can make or break your recordings. With vocals, keep the mic about 6 inches from your mouth, slightly off-axis, to reduce plosives. Use a pop filter always.

For acoustic guitar, aim the mic at the 12th fret about 8–12 inches away. Don’t point it straight at the sound hole unless you want a boomy, muddy sound.

Experiment. Move the mic an inch, and you’ll hear a change. Trust your ears more than gear reviews.

Multi-tracking Strategies for Home Studios

Layering is your best friend. Double-track vocals for fullness. Pan doubled guitars left and right for width. Use automation to keep things moving and dynamic.

Record clean takes, even if you’re going to add effects later. It’s easier to shape a dry signal than fix a messy one.

Getting the Most from Limited Equipment

Don’t fall into the trap of blaming your gear. Limitations force creativity. Use one mic in different ways—overhead, room mic, or close mic. Reamp signals through amps or speakers to add vibe.

Use free or low-cost plugins smartly. Focus on EQ, compression, and reverb. A tight mix isn’t about fancy tools—it’s about balance, space, and intention.

Building Your Home Studio Gradually

Don’t stress about having it all from day one. A great studio is built over time. Here’s how to grow without wasting money.

Priority Equipment List

Start with:

  • One good large-diaphragm condenser mic
  • A reliable audio interface
  • Closed-back headphones
  • Basic acoustic treatment
  • A DAW you’re comfortable with

Then add:

  • Studio monitors
  • A second mic (dynamic or stereo pair)
  • External preamp or compressor (if needed)

When to Upgrade and When to Wait

Only upgrade when your current gear holds you back. If your recordings are noisy, distorted, or lack headroom, it might be time. But if your mixes still fall flat, focus on technique first.

Gear doesn’t fix problems. It reveals them. Upgrade when you know exactly what you’re missing—not just because something’s on sale.

Long-term Planning for Studio Growth

Think about flexibility. Invest in tools you won’t outgrow. Modular gear setups and multi-use items (like combo mic stands or rolling racks) save space and cash.

Keep learning. Follow engineers, watch breakdowns, and study mixes. Growth in skill always outpaces growth in gear.

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

5 Surprising Facts About Bruce Springsteen’s ‘The Wild, the Innocent & the E Street Shuffle’

Eric Alper
-
0
5 Surprising Facts About Bruce Springsteen’s ‘The Wild, the Innocent & the E Street Shuffle’

Released on November 5, 1973, The Wild, the Innocent & the E Street Shuffle is Bruce Springsteen’s second studio album and a beloved staple in his iconic catalog. While it didn’t achieve commercial success initially, its reputation has only grown over the years. The album features classic songs like “Rosalita (Come Out Tonight)” and “4th of July, Asbury Park (Sandy)” that continue to define Springsteen’s early career. But beyond the well-known tracks, here are five lesser-known facts about the album that add new layers to its legacy.

1. “Rosalita” Was Initially Unknown, But Became a Fan Favorite
Rosalita (Come Out Tonight), a song that has since become one of Springsteen’s most iconic tracks, was never initially released as a single in the U.S. When the album first came out, it flew under the radar. However, as Springsteen’s career gained momentum, Rosalita found its way to FM radio airwaves, eventually earning heavy airplay. The song’s vivid story of forbidden love and defiant youth would later become a concert staple, solidifying its place as a quintessential Springsteen anthem.

2. The “Sandy” Chorus Was Inspired by Springsteen’s Love for Van Morrison
The ballad 4th of July, Asbury Park (Sandy) was influenced heavily by Van Morrison’s work, particularly his romanticized take on Belfast in Astral Weeks. Springsteen captures a similar wistful tone, painting a vivid picture of Jersey Shore culture and a love story teetering on the edge of nostalgia and hopelessness. The song’s complex harmonies and layered narrative were crafted with Morrison’s influence in mind, yet it remains a quintessential Springsteen piece about youth, loss, and longing.

3. “Incident on 57th Street” Is Springsteen’s First “Observer” Song
Incident on 57th Street, a stunning piece on the album, marked a turning point in Springsteen’s songwriting. According to Springsteen himself, it was one of the first songs in which he felt like an “observer” rather than the subject. The tale of “Spanish Johnny” and “Puerto Rican Jane” draws heavy parallels to West Side Story, creating a Romeo and Juliet-style narrative set in New York. The song’s intricate structure, mood shifts, and unforgettable piano solo by David Sancious showcase Springsteen’s growing mastery in storytelling.

4. The Album’s Cover Photo Has an Intriguing Backstory
The album’s back cover photo features six members of the E Street Band standing in front of a storefront in Long Branch, New Jersey. The location, once the site of Tommy Reed’s bicycle repair shop, would become a significant spot for Springsteen fans, though it has since been demolished. The intimate and almost cinematic feel of the photo perfectly captures the album’s spirit—a snapshot of a group caught between youthful rebellion and an inevitable journey toward fame.

5. “Wild Billy’s Circus Story” Was Initially a “Circus Song”
One of the album’s standout tracks, Wild Billy’s Circus Story, was initially conceived as Circus Song during recording sessions. The track underwent a transformation from a simple musical idea to a fleshed-out narrative, showcasing Springsteen’s growing penchant for using storytelling as a vehicle for emotional expression. With vivid imagery and a sense of musical exploration, Wild Billy’s Circus Story captures the mix of innocence and chaos that permeates the album as a whole.

While The Wild, the Innocent & the E Street Shuffle initially met with limited commercial success, it became a crucial stepping stone in Springsteen’s ascent. By capturing the energy of a small-town New Jersey rock band and mixing it with soul, jazz, and folk influences, Springsteen set the stage for his eventual worldwide success. Sandy, Rosalita, Incident on 57th Street, and other tracks became the bedrock for his future triumphs. The Wild, the Innocent & the E Street Shuffle remains an essential album in the Springsteen catalog, both for its intimate portrayal of youth and its bold step forward in musical ambition.

5 Surprising Facts About The Beatles’ ‘Let It Be’

Eric Alper
-
0
5 Surprising Facts About The Beatles’ ‘Let It Be’

The Beatles’ Let It Be holds a unique place in the history of rock music. Released on May 8, 1970, the album marked the band’s emotional and tumultuous farewell, coming out almost a month after the public announcement of their breakup. Despite being hailed as one of the most iconic albums of all time, Let It Be had a troubled and controversial recording process. Let’s delve into five lesser-known facts about this masterpiece that continues to influence generations of musicians.

1. The Beatles Nearly Recorded the Entire Album in One Take
The rawness of Let It Be comes from the fact that much of the album was recorded in a live, unpolished setting. In fact, the band’s intention for the project was to recreate the vibe of their earlier recordings, with the goal of keeping things spontaneous. The most famous example of this approach is the track “Two of Us,” which was largely recorded in one take, with minimal overdubs. The intention was to capture the energy of a live performance, and they achieved this by keeping the tracks as simple as possible, blending live vocals with instrumentals. Despite the struggles during the recording sessions, this choice gave the album its intimate, raw feel.

2. Billy Preston’s Contribution Changed the Album’s Sound
Often called “the Fifth Beatle,” keyboardist Billy Preston’s contributions were a turning point for Let It Be. His addition to the band during the sessions brought a new dimension to their sound. Many of the songs, especially “Something” and “Let It Be,” feature Preston’s unmistakable organ and electric piano playing, which added richness and depth to the tracks. In fact, it was George Harrison who invited Preston to join the sessions, and his performance marked a pivotal moment in the band’s sound evolution. His participation was so significant that some consider him an unofficial member during this era.

3. The Infamous Rooftop Concert Wasn’t Originally Part of the Plan
One of the most iconic moments in Let It Be’s history is the rooftop concert, where the Beatles performed live for the first time in over two years. However, this performance wasn’t part of the initial concept for the album. The band was actually recording a TV special, and at one point, they even considered performing in a studio in front of a small audience. The decision to play on the roof came suddenly, with John Lennon suggesting it on the spot. The performance, which was filmed and later included in the documentary, not only marked the end of an era for the band but also gave the album an unexpectedly raw and public farewell.

4. The ‘Get Back’ Sessions Were Supposed to Be a Separate Project
Before Let It Be became the final studio album, it was originally intended to be a separate project, called Get Back. The idea was to return to a more stripped-down, back-to-basics rock sound, in contrast to the more experimental work on Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band and The White Album. However, the tension during the sessions was so high that the Get Back project was scrapped, and what remained was turned into Let It Be. Even the title Let It Be wasn’t initially part of the plan—until Paul McCartney came up with it, inspired by a conversation with his late mother.

5. McCartney Felt Betrayed by Phil Spector’s Production
When Let It Be was completed, the band turned to famed producer Phil Spector to help bring it all together. However, McCartney was unhappy with the results, particularly with how Spector treated certain tracks. The most controversial example was “The Long and Winding Road,” where Spector added orchestral and choral arrangements that McCartney felt weren’t necessary. McCartney was so upset that he later took steps to release Let It Be… Naked, a version of the album without Spector’s embellishments. Despite McCartney’s dissatisfaction, Spector’s production gave Let It Be its dramatic, sweeping sound, which has since become one of its defining features.

While Let It Be was released in the midst of a band in turmoil, it remains one of the most influential albums in rock history. The stories behind the album are as legendary as the music itself, showing how personal struggles, creative tensions, and outside forces shaped what would ultimately become the Beatles’ swan song. Despite its tumultuous creation, Let It Be is a testament to the power of music to transcend the moment of its creation, becoming timeless in its expression. From its raw performances to the iconic rooftop concert, it captured the final days of the Beatles in the most profound way imaginable.

5 Surprising Facts About The Smashing Pumpkins’ ‘Siamese Dream’

Eric Alper
-
0
5 Surprising Facts About The Smashing Pumpkins’ ‘Siamese Dream’

When Siamese Dream dropped on July 19, 1993, it skyrocketed The Smashing Pumpkins to fame, forever marking their place in the alternative rock scene. But beyond the massive hits like “Cherub Rock” and “Today,” there are deeper, lesser-known stories behind the making of this masterpiece. Let’s explore five surprising facts about the album that might make you appreciate it even more.

1. Billy Corgan’s Most Personal Album to Date
Though Corgan’s lyrics have always been emotionally charged, Siamese Dream saw him pour his most vulnerable feelings into his songwriting. At the time of recording, Corgan was battling severe depression, suicidal thoughts, and writer’s block. “Today” is one of the clearest examples of this, as its upbeat sound contrasts with the dark, personal lyrics that reflect a day when Corgan felt completely disconnected and overwhelmed. For many, the juxtaposition of tone and lyrics is what makes this song resonate so deeply.

2. A Monumental Recording Process
Recording Siamese Dream was an intense process, filled with both creative brilliance and chaos. Billy Corgan and Butch Vig, who co-produced the album, had very high expectations, pushing themselves to create a unique sound. As a result, the album became a sonic masterpiece, with some songs having up to 40 guitar tracks layered on top of each other. Corgan’s pursuit of perfection led to grueling 16-hour workdays, where sometimes the band spent days on a 45-second section of a song. This attention to detail paid off, giving Siamese Dream its richly layered sound that’s hard to find in rock records from that era.

3. Jimmy Chamberlin’s Struggles and Genius
Despite being a key figure in Siamese Dream’s success, drummer Jimmy Chamberlin was going through severe heroin addiction during the recording. At one point, after Chamberlin went missing for several days, Corgan demanded that he perform his parts until his hands bled. The urgency was rooted in the dire need to get the record finished, but Chamberlin’s powerful drumming is undeniable, and his work on tracks like “Cherub Rock” stands as one of his finest contributions.

4. Corgan’s Isolation Led to Overdubbing
While the band was struggling with internal tensions and personal issues, Corgan took control of much of the album’s production. He overdubbed guitar and bass parts that were originally meant for James Iha and D’arcy Wretzky. Corgan himself admitted to taking over because he could lay down tracks more quickly and with fewer takes. This decision further highlighted the already-growing rift within the band, with Corgan’s obsession with perfectionism taking precedence over collaboration at times.

5. Siamese Dream’s Enduring Impact
Released during the grunge era, Siamese Dream carved out its own space in the alternative rock landscape. It’s often considered one of the greatest albums of the ’90s and has stood the test of time, influencing countless bands and artists. From its lush, ambient textures to the raw emotion behind Corgan’s songwriting, the album’s legacy continues to live on in its influence on modern alternative and indie rock. Songs like “Disarm” and “Today” became anthems for the generation, and the album’s sound became synonymous with the alternative movement.

In Conclusion
Siamese Dream was an emotionally charged and sonically complex record that reflected the inner turmoil of its creator, Billy Corgan, and the band’s tumultuous experience during the recording process. Nearly three decades later, Siamese Dream still resonates, standing as one of the defining albums of its era. These lesser-known stories remind us that beneath the iconic singles and legendary performances, this album’s creation was anything but simple. It was a battle, both for the music and for the artists behind it.

Bandcamp Launches Playlists: A Digital Mixtape Made for Real Fans

Eric Alper
-
0
Bandcamp Launches Playlists: A Digital Mixtape Made for Real Fans

Create playlists from the music you own. Personalize them. Share them.

It’s like a mixtape—but digital, and powered by real support for artists.

More Than Just a Playlist 

Bandcamp Playlists capture the spirit of a mixtape—personal, intentional, and built from music that means something.

Every playlist is crafted from your own collection—tracks you’ve chosen to support.
It’s not passive streaming. It’s real curation, rooted in ownership and connection.

Think of it as a modern mixtape: handmade, shareable, and designed to help others discover the artists you love.

How It Works

  • Create and edit playlists using the Bandcamp mobile app
    Available now on iOS and Android.
    (Web-based editing is coming soon.)
  • Share with a public link
    Fans must be logged in to listen, keeping playlists rooted in real fandom and support.
  • Play limits apply to unowned tracks
    Fans can play tracks they haven’t purchased a limited number of times—three by default, unless the artist sets a different limit. After that, they’ll be prompted to purchase in order to keep listening.

What Artists Should Know

Bandcamp playlists are powered by ownership, not passive streaming. Fans can only add tracks to their playlists if they’ve purchased them. Meanwhile, listeners who haven’t purchased your music can only stream it a limited number of times (three by default, unless you’ve set a different cap). After that, they’re directed back to your album page to explore further, make a purchase, and support your work directly.

This is a tool for fans, built with artists in mind.

Ready to Make Your First Mixtape? 

If you’ve ever wanted to flex your great taste, curate a mix, or showcase your collection—this is your moment.

Start with the music you own.
Give it a name, a cover, and a description that tells its story.
Share it with the world—and help someone else find their next favorite track.

Create Your First Playlist →

Badflower Unleashes ‘Snuff’ Ahead of New Album ‘No Place Like Home’

Eric Alper
-
0
Badflower Unleashes ‘Snuff’ Ahead of New Album ‘No Place Like Home’

Platinum-selling rock band Badflower delivers a pulsing new blow with “Snuff,” their seductive and searing new single out today via Big Machine Rock. The provocative track is the latest tease from the band’s forthcoming third studio album, No Place Like Home, arriving June 20. Listen to “Snuff” HERE.

Blurring the lines between pleasure and pain, “Snuff” dismantles conventional ideas of romance in favor of something far more twisted. The track pulls listeners into a darkly alluring headspace, where suffering takes center stage—until a jaw-dropping musical intermission flips the script entirely. As always, Badflower keeps fans guessing, making one thing clear: nothing about No Place Like Home is predictable.

Written entirely sober for the first time by frontman Josh Katz, the new album finds the Los Angeles-bred, Nashville-based band at their most vulnerable and self-reflective. From emotional isolation to fading identities, the album is a brutal yet honest excavation of self—anchored in the band’s signature mix of gritty rock, emotional depth, and psychological exploration.

“Snuff” follows previous singles “London” and “Paws,” further setting the tone for an album that aims to push boundaries both sonically and thematically.

Since their formation in 2011, Badflower has released two EPs, their hit full-length debut Ok, I’m Sick via Big Machine Label Group, and their sophomore record, This Is How The World Ends. With a unique blend of raw rock and introspective storytelling, the band have earned critical acclaim from outlets like Billboard, Alternative Press, and Nylon. Their hit single “Ghost” went Platinum, received “Rock Song of the Year” honors at the iHeartRadio Awards, and has amassed over 700 million streams, all while captivating audiences across the globe, playing major festivals like Kaboo Del Mar and Sonic Temple, and sharing stages with bands such as Incubus, Shinedown, and Ghost. 

Four years in the making, No Place Like Home marks a turning point for Badflower — Josh Katz (vocals/guitar), Joey Morrow (lead guitar), Alex Espiritu (bass), and Anthony Sonetti (drums) — as they confront the disillusionment that comes after achieving their lifelong dreams. From the biting commentary of the music industry on “Number 1” to the heartbreaking future regrets of “Don’t Be a Stranger” and “Paws,” the album weaves together themes of mental health, self-doubt, and existential dread with an unflinching honesty that’s become Badflower’s signature. No Place Like Homedoesn’t offer easy answers — instead, it invites listeners to sit with their discomfort, to feel seen, and maybe, to feel less alone. With the album’s release, the band shifts gears as they embark on their 2025 Unity Tour alongside 311, from June 20 to August 30. 

No Place Like Home is available June 20. Pre-save the album HERE.

Upcoming Tour & Festival Dates:

June 20 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Resort, Atlantic City, NJ

June 21 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Freeman Arts Pavilion, Selbyville, DE

June 24 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre, Charlotte, NC

June 25 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Red Hat Amphitheater, Raleigh, NC

June 27 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – The Anthem, Washington, DC

June 28 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Wind Creek Event Center, Bethlehem, PA

June 29 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – The Rooftop at Pier 17, New York, NY

July 1 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Stage AE, Pittsburgh, PA

July 2 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Iroquois Amphitheater, Louisville, KY

July 3 – Summerfest 2025 – American Family Insurance Amphitheater, Milwaukee, WI

July 5 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Back Waters Stage, Dubuque, IA

July 6 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Hard Rock Live, Rockford, IL

July 7 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Agora Theatre, Cleveland, OH

July 9 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Vibrant Music Hall, Waukee, IA

July 11 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Grinders KC, Kansas City, MO

July 13 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – WAVE, Wichita, KS

July 15 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Rio Rancho Events Center, Rio Rancho, NM

July 16 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Pepsi Amphitheater, Flagstaff, AZ

August 8 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Yaamava’ Theater, Highland, CA

August 9 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – The Mountain Winery, Saratoga, CA

August 10 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Grand Theatre at Grand Sierra Resort, Reno, NV

August 12 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – The Cuthbert Amphitheater, Eugene, OR

August 13 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Marymoor Park Concerts, Redmond, WA

August 15 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Great Falls Voyagers Stadium, Great Falls, MT

August 16 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Portneuf Health Trust Amphitheatre, Pocatello, ID

August 17 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Sandy Amphitheater, Sandy, UT

August 19 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Ford Amphitheater, Colorado Springs, CO

August 22 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Hard Rock Live Northern Indiana, Gary, IN

August 23 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – MegaCorp Pavilion, Newport, KY

August 24 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – KEMBA Live!, Columbus, OH

August 26 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – The Pinnacle, Nashville, TN

August 27 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Avondale Brewing Company, Birmingham, AL

August 29 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Cadence Bank Arena, Tupelo, MS

August 30 – Unity Tour 2025 with 311 – Ozarks Amphitheater, Camdenton, MO

FLETCHER Announces Bold New Album ‘Would You Still Love Me If You Really Knew Me?’

Eric Alper
-
0
FLETCHER Announces Bold New Album ‘Would You Still Love Me If You Really Knew Me?’

Critically acclaimed Queer artist FLETCHER announces the forthcoming release of her third studio album, Would You Still Love Me If You Really Knew Me? Out July 18th, the platinum-selling singer/songwriter’s latest full-length features her brand-new single “Boy,” out today accompanied by the official visual.  Listen to “Boy” HERE, watch the official visual HERE and the album trailer HERE.    

As she gets set to deliver her most emotionally daring work to date, FLETCHER shares a note to fans about the making of and meaning behind Would You Still Love Me If You Really Knew Me?

A handwritten note expressing personal thoughts and emotions, dated June '25, reflecting on the making of FLETCHER's album and exploring themes of vulnerability and self-acceptance.

A gorgeous introduction to the unvarnished emotion of Would You Still Love Me If You Really Knew Me?, “Boy” opens on a stripped-back arrangement of piano and acoustic guitar as FLETCHER begins to tell her story: “I’ve been sitting on a secret/And I don’t think I can keep it anymore.” With both aching sensitivity and assured determination, FLETCHER shares a soul-baring chorus: “I kissed a boy/And I know it’s not what you wanted to hear…I fell in love/And it wasn’t with who I thought it would be/And I’m scared to think of what you’ll think of me.”

Co-produced by FLETCHER and longtime collaborator GRAMMY®Award-winning producer/songwriter Jennifer Decilveo as well as co-written with GRAMMY®Award-winning artist and songwriter Shane McAnally (nominated for more CMA Awards than any other songwriter in history and known for his work with Kacey Musgraves, H.E.R., Maren Morris and more), “Boy” moves along at its own unhurried pace, gently enveloping the listener in its delicate guitar tones, bittersweet melodies, and beautifully layered vocal work. True to the raw transparency that illuminates every song on Would You Still Love Me If You Really Knew Me?, the track reveals all of FLETCHER’s worries and fears while reinforcing her refusal to be anyone but herself. The result: a powerful new chapter in her journey as a Queer person and musical artist, affirming her commitment to sharing the full spectrum of her truth.  See below for the full tracklist to Would You Still Love Me If You Really Knew Me?.

Both produced and executive-produced by FLETCHER and Decilveo, Would You Still Love Me If You Really Knew Me? marks FLETCHER’s first studio album since In Search Of The Antidote: an early-2024 release that debuted at No. 3 on Billboard’s Top Album Sales chart and earned praise from the likes of Rolling Stone (who stated that “FLETCHER has established herself as one of pop’s most versatile stars,”) The Line of Best Fit (“once again proves that nobody does heartbreak anthems quite like FLETCHER”) and Clash (“each track on this album is ridiculously strong in its own right. Much like the artist behind them”). After completing the In Search of The Antidote Tour — a massive global headline run with sold-out stops at historic venues like New York City’s Radio City Music Hall and the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles— FLETCHER released the 21-song double LP THE ANTIDOTE: FLETCHER LIVE. With her catalog also including you ruined new york city for me (a 2019 EP featuring her platinum-certified breakthrough smash “Undrunk”) and THE S(EX) TAPES(a 2020 EP that shot to No. 1 on iTunes across all genres), FLETCHER made her full-length debut with 2022’s critically lauded Girl Of My Dreams (a No. 15 debut on the Billboard 200, featuring her iconic hit “Becky’s So Hot”). FLETCHER’s music has amassed over 2.5 billion streams worldwide.

A woman in a flowing, light-colored dress stands with her arms outstretched against a bright blue sky, surrounded by green hills and flowers, with the text 'WOULD YOU STILL LOVE ME IF YOU REALLY KNEW ME?' artistically overlayed.

Tracklist for Would You Still Love Me If You Really Knew Me?

SIDE A
1. Party
2. Hi, Everyone Leave Please
3. Don’t Tempt Me…
4. The Arsonist
5. Boy
6. Chaos

SIDE B
7. D i s t a n c e
8. Good Girl / Gone Girl
9. All of the Women
10. Congratulations!
11. Would You Still Love Me?
12. Hail Mary (Bonus)

One of the most vital Queer voices in pop, FLETCHER is a one-of-a-kind artist fiercely devoted to fully expressing her truth. After exploding onto the scene with her platinum-certified breakthrough smash “Undrunk” (a Billboard Hot 100 hit that reached No. 1 on Spotify’s Viral Chart), FLETCHER went on to build an ardent global following thanks to her unbridled storytelling, unapologetic presence, and endlessly thrilling live show. Praised by leading outlets like Rolling Stone, TIME, Interview Magazine, and more, the acclaimed singer-songwriter hails from Asbury Park, New Jersey, where she cultivated her passion for music and her unforgettably candid storytelling.  With over 2.5 billion streams to date, her catalog includes powerhouse EPS like 2019’s you ruined new york city for me and 2020’s THE S(EX) TAPES (a deeply intimate project that shot to No. 1 on iTunes across all genres and featured her hit single “Bitter”).  Released in 2022, FLECHER’s acclaimed debut album Girl Of My Dreams  delivered the smash single “Becky’s So Hot” which earned raves from NYLON, Billboard, Vulture and more, landed on Billboard’s Hot Rock and Alternative Songs chart and garnered nominations from the MTV Video Music Awards and MTV Europe Music Awards. In support of the LP, FLETCHER performed on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.” As she cemented her status as a cultural force, FLETCHER won the 2023 GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Music Artist and founded her own “FLETCHER & Friends” festival in Asbury Park in addition to launching the hugely popular Meet Her At The Bar: Pride Month Experience (a series of pop-ups in support of women-owned Queer bars across America). On her 2024 sophomore album In Search Of The Antidote (a No. 3 entry on Billboard’s Top Album Sales chart), she doubled down on her music’s soul-searching honesty and quickly drew praise from top publications like them., The Line of Best Fit and Rolling Stone (who stated that “FLETCHER has established herself as one of pop’s most versatile stars. She can pen a heartbreak ballad or craft a raucous dance hit and have tens of thousands sing the words back at her“).  After embarking on the In Search of The Antidote Tour — a blockbuster global headline run featuring sold-out dates at famed venues like Radio City Music Hall in New York City and the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles, as well as stops in major cities across the U.S., Europe, Australia, and New Zealand — she released the 21-song double album THE ANTIDOTE: FLETCHER LIVE. Continuing her commitment to constant evolution in her artistry, FLETCHER will release her forthcoming third album Would You Still Love Me If You Really Knew Me? on July 18th via Capitol Records. 

renforshort Releases Reflective and Raw EP ‘a girl’s experience’

Eric Alper
-
0
renforshort Releases Reflective and Raw EP ‘a girl’s experience’

Canadian alt-pop star renforshort unveils her highly anticipated EP, a girl’s experience, a four-track project that captures the complexities of modern womanhood through a tapestry of raw emotion, vibrant production, and lyrical vulnerability. Leading the release is renforshort’s brand new single, “you’re the one” – an atmospheric, sultry track marked by her partly spoken-word narration and simmering sense of intimacy.

Speaking on the story behind the EP, renforshort shares, a girl’s experience is a project about exactly what the title infers. It’s not about a specific experience, it’s about the uniqueness of every person and how, with that individuality, there are always things that bring us together and allow us to understand each other through shared experiences. I wrote this project when I was feeling very unsure, confused, and frankly unsettled with my life. I think writing this project forced me to disconnect from those thoughts. I wanted to step outside of my head for a bit every day and make music that explained how I felt without harping on it. I love the duality of some of the songs on the project, like “feeling good” and “pretend to like me.”

She adds, “The lyrics are quite melancholic and reflective; however, the music feels like a juxtaposition of the content of the song. They all feel like songs you can sing with your friends without feeling those things, or you could listen to them alone with headphones on a walk, and really resonate with the lyrics.”

a girl’s experience dives into universal themes of love, self-discovery, independence, and the nuanced highs and lows of navigating life as a young woman. Inspired by ren’s personal experiences, the EP is both intimate and relatable, set to resonate with her youthful audience who are living through many of the same emotional experiences in today’s world.

Romantic and pop-infused while retaining her signature edge, “you’re the one” showcases a more refined, mature sound. It draws from her indie-rock roots but leans into playful, flirty pop sensibilities, marking an evolution in both renforshort’s sound and storytelling.

The new single follows a string of previously released tracks from the project, including “on my way!,” “feeling good,” and “pretend to like me,” each adding a unique chapter to the story. Since the rollout began in late 2024, the EP has garnered praise for its nostalgic yet forward-thinking sound – cementing renforshort’s place as one of alt-pop’s most compelling voices.

a girl’s experience follows her critically acclaimed EP clean hands dirty water and 2022 debut album dear amelia. Building on the foundations of these earlier works, renforshort’s latest project represents a confident step forward, showcasing her growth as a songwriter and her ability to blend emotional honesty with sonic experimentation.

Raissa Releases Bold New Single “DO U RIDE,” Announces ‘Desire Path’ EP

Eric Alper
-
0
Raissa Releases Bold New Single “DO U RIDE,” Announces ‘Desire Path’ EP

The multilingual, multinational world-pop artist Raissa announces her new track “DO U RIDE” which is co-written by Raissa herself and Evan Voytas. Along comes the announcement of her new DESIRE PATH EP coming out this summer, following the release of the Spanish-language heater, “MANZANA”, “GUAPA,” and her EP, Cute Threat. 

Raissa adds: “In “DO U RIDE” I’m flexing with things I can back up. Flaunting yourself to the point of taunting your detractors, but always all in good fun, I was really inspired by the rhythms of Soca for this track.”

Raissa embodies the kind of bold contradictions that make for truly transcendent pop: she’s wildly inventive yet refined in musicality, sensitive yet self-possessed, fiercely intelligent yet deeply attuned to the sensory pleasures of melody and groove.

Earlier, she released the music video for the track “Cute Threat” on Neon Gold Records. Born in Spain, Raissa inherited a mastery of French and Spanish from her parents and a love of songwriting from Leonard Cohen. She spent her childhood between Beijing, Sydney, Kuala Lumpur, and London – as a result, she draws from a deep well of creative influences, everything from antique Gothic literature to vintage anime.

Last year, Raissa released “No Genius” featuring her close friend and collaborator Rahim Redcar aka Christine and the Queens. The collaboration is the latest in a long line of meaningful collabs and co-signs, including Mark Ronson, Mura Masa, and more. A singular pop storyteller whose honest lyrics, vibrant soundscapes, and unique visual storytelling exhibit her artistry.

The promotional artwork for Raissa's single "DO U RIDE," featuring vibrant yellow and blue colors, a figure in oversized blue boots with a playful pose, and the title prominently displayed at the top.



A creative force unlike any other in music today, Raissa embodies the kind of bold contradictions that make for truly transcendent pop: she’s wildly inventive yet refined in musicality, sensitive yet self-possessed, fiercely intelligent yet deeply attuned to the sensory pleasures of melody and groove. Not only the outcome of her global upbringing—a journey that includes being born in Spain, then spending her childhood in Beijing, Sydney, and Kuala Lumpur—the Los Angeles-based singer/songwriter/producer’s potent originality stems from her limitless imagination and eclectic mix of influences (early-millennium hip-hop, ’80s art-pop, tropicália, West African dance music, and much more). Newly signed to Neon Gold Records, Raissa is now set to deliver a new body of work affirming the depth and power of her one-of-a-kind vision.

“In the past I’ve felt frustrated with the fact that I don’t fit neatly into any type of box—I belong to so many things, but at the same I belong to nothing,” says Raissa. “Now I’m finally starting to see that as a strength, and maybe the most important thing about me as a person and an artist.”

A multilingual talent whose lyrics shift from English to Spanish to French, Raissa partly attributes her near-encyclopedic knowledge of music to her parents, who raised her on pop iconoclasts like Prince and David Bowie and songwriter/poets like Leonard Cohen—an essential catalyst for her own musical development. “When I was 12 I watched a documentary about Leonard Cohen, and he talked about how he’d started writing songs after learning to play just a few chords on guitar,” she recalls. “I thought, ‘That doesn’t sound so hard,’ and then I started writing songs too.” After teaching herself GarageBand at age 14, Raissa began self-recording and quickly amassed a sizable but entirely secret stash of songs. “At the time I was living in Malaysia and didn’t know anyone who’d even attempted to make music, so the idea of turning it into something bigger seemed impossible,” she explains. Upon heading to London for art school at 19, however, Raissa felt an overwhelming need to take her music to the next level. “I was alone in this big city and felt really low, and music became a lifeline,” she says. “I started making music with a friend just for fun, and then one day I randomly uploaded a song to SoundCloud.” By the next morning, that track had surpassed 20,000 streams—a turn of events that caught the attention of several established producers looking to collaborate, and soon found her flying out to L.A. to set her music career in motion.

Since making her debut with the tender but unapologetic 2020 single “BULLYING BOYS,” Raissa has continually turned out songs that match their exquisitely detailed and high-energy sound with lyrics that subtly transform our perception of the world—a dynamic in full effect on her latest EP Cute Threat. Mainly co-produced by Raissa and her longtime creative partner Evan Voytas, her debut project for Neon Gold encompasses everything from the tongue-in-cheek swagger of its title track to the raw catharsis of “No Genius”: a galvanizing collaboration with Rahim Redcar (aka Christine and the Queens), built on gorgeously strange beats and Raissa’s hot-tempered but hypnotic outpouring of frustration. “That song came from thinking about how the most powerful entities in the world profit from creating division among the most vulnerable,” says Raissa, who refers to “No Genius” as “some tough love for myself and my fellow human.”

Ana Luna Dances With the Past in Haunting “Dance in a Trance” Video

Eric Alper
-
0
Ana Luna Dances With the Past in Haunting “Dance in a Trance” Video

Emerging singer and songwriter Ana Luna returns today with the music video for her latest single, “Dance in a Trance.”

Co-directed by Noah Hoffman, Will Curtis, and Ana Luna, the video takes place in a surreal bedroom set within a vast warehouse, blurring the lines between reality and inner emotional space. At its core is a masked man and a masked woman—representing Ana’s ex-lover and her past self—locked in a dance that unfolds as Ana (present-day, unmasked) watches, intervenes, and ultimately confronts her past. The masks serve as a powerful symbol of emotional distance and anonymity, allowing viewers to project their own stories onto the characters.

“I chose to keep their faces hidden because it’s not about any one person—it’s about the emotion,” Ana explains. “I want viewers to project their own stories onto the characters, not be told who they are.”

The visual expands on the track’s themes of memory, identity, and the ache of trying to reach someone who’s right in front of you but never truly sees you. The video renders that internal duality in physical form: the masked dance as a representation of the past, the surreal setting as a reflection of Ana’s emotional world—a vast, empty space with a single bed at its center, highlighting how small one can feel beneath the weight of unresolved feelings—and her final kiss to the masked man as an act of closure, not reconciliation.

Born in Ukraine, raised in Paris, and now based in Los Angeles, Ana Luna is a natural-born storyteller whose music is as cinematic as it is emotionally raw. Though she’s always known she was destined to be an artist, Ana initially led with acting and kept her songwriting close to the chest. It wasn’t until college, after years of emotional growth and inner work, that she finally gave herself permission to stop overthinking and dive fully into music. Over time, she’s shaped a signature sound that moves effortlessly between dream pop, alt-rock, and moody ballads, creating songs that feel celestial, sultry, and reflective.

Ana approaches music as a form of therapy and storytelling, using it to process wounds, examine behavior, and carve out space for healing. Her songs explore the complex emotional layers beneath the surface, asking where our feelings come from, what they reveal, and how they shape the way we see the world. As she readies her debut album, Ana Luna is channeling her voice into songs that invite connection, introspection, and healing.

1...595596597...3,040Page 596 of 3,040

Follow us on Instagram @thatericalper

That Eric Alper

Eric Alper is a 6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week and has overseen the publicity campaigns for over 183 JUNO Award-nominated albums (and 16 in 2025), 45 Grammy-nominated albums, including 47 JUNO Award, 58 Canadian Folk Music Award, 126 Maple Blues Award-winning albums and is also truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

Contact me: eric@thatericalper.com

Popular posts

Popular category

© Copyright - That Eric Alper