Artist Spotlight
Pop singer-songwriter Sydney Lauren Flourishes In Self-Love With New Single “Maybe”
Pop singer-songwriter Sydney Lauren shares her perspective on messy, uncomfortable breakups — a situation everyone’s been in, and no one enjoys — with her single “Maybe” which released July 16. The juxtaposition between playful production and a melancholy story shows listeners that everything happens for a reason. The chorus of “Maybe” reflects a painful moment of acceptance in which the singer-songwriter realizes a lack of appreciation from her significant other. She writes, “maybe is reserved for things that don’t hurt, like should you chop off your hair or throw out clothes you don’t wear,” asserting that love has to warrant more than just a “maybe.” This project is a rumination through clear eyes in which Sydney breaks down the reasons why relationships like this never work.
“Maybe” represents the start of a new era for the artist; characteristic of playful, upbeat projects in contrast to her previous releases. Racing thoughts kept Sydney awake, eventually compelling her to get out of bed and write the chorus to the song. She came back to the idea weeks later, filling in the blanks to a story of heartbreak, and in the end, growth. This single is a testament to the value of never settling for less than you deserve.
In partnership with producer Jake Ohlbaum, the two recorded the single remotely over Zoom. Jake produced Sydney’s prior EP, and the artistic dynamic between the two was a match made in heaven that called them to continue working together. The two managed to capture the same magic in the recording process that fills the room during in-person studio sessions, despite the complications of isolation during the pandemic; the result is an upbeat, perfect-for-summer anthem that tells the story of someone realizing their worth.
The singer-songwriter bases her identity in honesty and simplicity, letting truth permeate the lyrical content of her music. In every song, she gives listeners a “snapshot of a time in [her] life that was special to [her].” Sydney has grown up as a musician and found that a life-long companionship with her guitar has shaped her into the confident artist she is today. Sydney gives listeners an unadulterated, authentic representation of herself — “no over the top makeup or creating an image of myself that doesn’t feel truthful,” she says. “It’s a girl with her guitar telling stories she writes in her bedroom in hopes that others will relate.”
Find “Maybe” on all major streaming platforms now.
Sydney Lauren tells stories through her songs. She grew up singing and writing music just outside of New York City, the place she now calls home. The city serves as her inspiration as well as her stomping grounds, and she has performed in NYC venues like the delancey & the bitter end. Sydney’s training in piano, guitar and songwriting are clearly reflected in her songs, which take inspiration from some of her favorite artists including JP Saxe, Sarah Bareilles, Ingrid Andress, and more. Her music has been featured on Temptation Island and The Biggest Loser on USA Network. Sydney’s new era of music represents a chapter in her life lyrically, and her authentic vision sonically. She dives into the emotions that occur during heartbreak and the simplistic happiness that can come with love. New York City will always play an important role in her music, whether it’s a street she references or the subway home. Fans can find her latest single “Maybe”on all major streaming platforms on July 17.
Connect with Sydney Lauren: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Youtube
Artist Spotlight
Plain Mister Smith unveils a journey of sound, spirit, and reflection with new release “Dream to Be Free”
Plain Mister Smith’s new single sounds more like a portal than a regular song. “Dream to Be Free” is a powerful meditation that came from a life-changing trip to Kyoto during Diamonji, the festival where huge bonfires are lit on hillsides to guide spirits home. Smith’s work is inspired by this deeply meaningful moment and is full of self-reflection, awe, and emotional release.
Plain Mister Smith is a well-known figure in the Canadian indie music scene. He has worked on projects like Moev and Cinderpop and is now a cellist with the Vancouver Philharmonic Orchestra. This adds a lot of musical depth to his solo work. His unique mix of indie pop, baroque folk, and subtle textures comes out with ease and style. The result is a piece that has both fragility and vastness, is rooted in tradition, and easily slips into ethereal soundscapes.
“Dream to Be Free” features a variety of instruments and subtle melodic shifts that make it shine. It makes you want to stop and take in its thoughtful mood. The track gives the impression of movement, as if it is following you and guiding you through self-reflection, memory, and small changes. Every passage seems carefully placed, but it flows naturally, letting the emotion grow and echo.
The single goes beyond mere inspiration, it captures a universal desire for freedom, clarity, and renewal. It talks about the deep moment when we reflect on what it means to let go. In “Dream to Be Free,” Plain Mister Smith reminds us that the first step toward freedom often begins with calmness and careful listening.
Connect with Plain Mister Smith on Spotify || Instagram || Youtube ||Tiktok
Artist Spotlight
Morpheus von Dobenhausen and Buddy Joe claim their space breaking the mold on latest release “I Have To Do It My Way”
Morpheus von Dobenhausen’s latest single, “I Have To Do It My Way,” is both personal and purposeful. It is a strong statement of independence and artistic identity, grounded in conviction rather than in giving in. The track is a good example of staying true to your creative vision. It embodies the essence of following your own path, celebrating your uniqueness, and trusting your instincts to help you grow as an artist. Morpheus von Dobenhausen and Buddy Joe, an artist based in the UK, are working together on the project. This gives it a sense of authenticity and dedication. Their work together results in a product that is focused, certain, and truly refreshing.
The song was made by people from different countries working together online with Logic Pro 12 and structured data exchange. This shows that distance doesn’t stop people from being creative together. This modern approach to making music allows the composition to have universal energy while still maintaining a personal touch. The process shows the main idea of the song: to work alone while remaining open to important collaboration.
“I Have to Do It My Way” is a statement for people who value being true to themselves over what society expects of them. It speaks to people who value artistic freedom and self-confidence, and it serves as a powerful reminder that being original often comes from having the courage to trust yourself.
This track from Morpheus von Dobenhausen and Buddy Joe shows how much they care about creative freedom. It’s both uplifting and very relatable. It is a major step forward that has a lasting effect long after the last note fades away.
Connect with Morpheus von Dobenhausen on Spotify || Instagram || Facebook || Youtube || Tiktok || Soundcloud
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