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Alex Aiono Shares his striking single “Played Out” ft. Jake Miller

Alex Aiono is ready to share his most honest project to date, starting with the release of his striking single “Played Out” ft. Jake Miller, due out June 25th. The fast-rising, multi-hyphenate is a force to be reckoned with. As a Pacific Islander (Maori Samoan,) music was an integral part of his upbringing and the singer-songwriter first got his start when he picked up the ukulele, drums, and piano when he was seven years old. Constantly striving to learn more, Alex started producing his own innovative covers of hit songs and what started as a fun hobby has since blossomed into nearly a Billion views on YouTube, 500 million streams, 6 Million followers across socials, Top 10 hits of his very own, sold-out tours around the world, and starring movie roles.

In this follow-up chapter, we see a side of Aiono that he has never shared before when it comes to his music. This new music is a full reflection of Alex here today; he is the record producer, writer, and performer. “This new era of music for me is special because I’m on an endeavor to continually reach deeper,” shares Alex. “With every release, I see more of me in my music. This next era truly will be the deepest I’ve gone yet, and as I live more life and dive further into who I am, I plan to share it with the world.”

In the intimate and intoxicating new single “Played Out,” glassy vocals packed with emotion usher in gorgeous, anthemic production as Alex muses on all the hardships he’s had to overcome in order to get to where he is now. He shares, “I think at our core as humans we consistently lose the forest for the trees when we are in the thicker situations of life. It’s not until you’re out of the woods or have overcome what it was you were going through that you get to see it all for what it truly is. Whether it’s love (as I refer to in the song), a career, a long term goal, or any budding and flourishing situation, sometimes you have to stop and appreciate how everything ‘played out.’”

“a truly defining moment for Aiono” – Variety

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“precociously experienced performer” – LA Times

“a clear intentionality behind all of Aiono’s work” – Wonderland

“Alex Aiono’s ‘Her’ is for everyone” – PAPER

“Aiono’s Drake-like tone has us in love” – Billboard

Aiono has seen a whirlwind of successes over the last few years. He released the unpredictable hybrid album The Gospel at 23 in 2020, which saw him deep in the mix of gospel truth-telling, stark hip-hop swagger, alternative ambition, and pop bliss. The album garnered praise from the masses, from Variety and The LA Times to Wonderland to name a few, and has racked up millions of streams. Early 2021 also saw Alex star in the Ian Bryce produced and Jude Weng directed film Finding Ohana, which marked the start of another burgeoning venture for Alex.

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The uniquely talented Aiono has proven himself as a jack of all trades. From writing and producing his own music to his collaborations with artists like John Legend to Jon Bellion, to securing starring roles on major networks, we see Alex continue a soaring career that’s bound to position the star as a household name for years to come.

Follow Alex Aiono

Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / Spotify / Apple Music

Natalie is a journalism major with a focus on Entertainment and Music who aspires to become a Content Creator For Honk Magazine. Eventually, she wants to be the Publisher or Editor-in-Chief of a major Publishing House. She loves helping people find their voice and passion for writing and journalism, and she can always be found with coffee in hand, editing another article.

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Artist Spotlight

Kay Onishi drops dark synth-trap banger on latest release “30 SECOND RULING”

Kay Onishi

Kay Onishi is aggressive and unapologetic on “30 SECOND RULING,” a song powered by dark synth-trap production, striking piano melodies, and heavy female rap delivery. The track is built on the idea of a turning point that can change everything, pouring confrontation, sarcasm, and urgency into a powerful musical statement.

What makes “30 SECOND RULING” compelling is how its musical elements support its attitude. The low-end heaviness gives it weight, the percussion keeps the rhythm crisp, and the piano offers a melodic thread that slices through the darkness. Together, they give Kay Onishi room to deliver a performance that is both controlled and explosive.

Kay Onishi’s “30 SECOND RULING” blends dark production, stark musical contrasts, and unapologetic expression. The song captures the frustration of being judged in the heat of the moment and turns that tension into a statement of defiance.

Connect with Kay Onishi on Spotify || Instagram || Facebook || Youtube

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Artist Spotlight

Zoe celebrates Jamaican roots and belonging on latest release “Zoe Islander”

Zoe

Zoe‘s latest release, “Zoe Islander,” celebrates the lasting connection between a person and the place they call home, and  brings a strong sense of identity and belonging to it. The song portrays Jamaica as home, no matter where life takes you. That message provides an emotional foundation for the release, linking its pride to an experience anyone with a strong attachment to their roots can relate to.

The track’s catchy dance beat brings its welcoming spirit to life, giving the song an inviting melodic character. Its message also feels like an introduction to Zoe’s own point of view. The mention of Jamaica’s beautiful beaches adds another touch to that picture, helping to convey the affection and appreciation behind the song. Zoe is more than a place to celebrate; it’s a personal connection that holds meaning no matter where your journey takes you.

What makes “Zoe Islander” appealing is the combination of a warm message of home and identity with an upbeat dance feel. The song celebrates Jamaica, but it also asks us to understand the experience and perspective that informs Zoe’s relationship to the country. The tie to home need not weaken with distance. Zoe has a catchy rhythm and a sense of belonging, and it brings a release that celebrates roots, culture, and the places that stay with us.

Connect with Zoe on Spotify || Youtube

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