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Artist Spotlight

Micki Balder Chronicles Loneliness in New Single

Micki Balder debuts her new single “Lonely” on September 2 ahead of her highly anticipated EP, releasing later this fall. “Lonely” was written while in what Balder refers to as “the throes of misery that is dating.” Having written several songs with consistent themes of heartbreak and frustration, Balder was beginning to feel as if she was stuck in an endless cycle… until a funky strum pattern opened up a new place of songwriting within her. The light-hearted track moves away from Balder’s folk tendencies with lyrics that reflect what she wishes someone would sing to her to melt all her frustrations away. “I think we all get a little bogged down by the sad and lonely parts of life sometimes, and this song was just about crafting a version of hope that worked for the moment, just to get through it,” says Balder. The burgeoning artist goes on to describe the single as riding a line of “hopeful melancholy” – a trait found in much of her previous catalog as well. “Lonely” is the first tease to Balder’s upcoming EP and will be available on all major platforms.

“My songs are personalized storytelling, generally a one-woman show, with an authentic voice. I like to write and record with a time capsule attitude in mind, that each recording or album is like a glimpse of a moment in time, what was going on in myself and the world in that snapshot.”

Micki Balder is a folksy singer-songwriter writing sad songs for happy people (and ever so occasionally, happy songs for sad people!). Her music is born from a life-long desire to be a character in a musical, unapologetically singing her feelings for the world through simple and poignant lyrics. Though she’s been dabbling with music her whole life, it wasn’t until 2018 when a friendship’s moment of truth unveiled itself in the middle of a Denver coffee shop. She walked home, wrote a song, and has been writing ever since, now a regular at local music venues around her Colorado home. Micki writes from a place of vulnerable storytelling, with people and relationships at the core of her music. She’s been compared to modern folk bands like The Weepies and Mipso, along with classic songwriters like Joni Mitchell and Paul Simon, but she draws inspiration from all over the spectrum — the swing and soul music of her lindy hop days, the earthy folk of Gregory Alan Isakov and Mandolin Orange, the candor and dry humor of John Craigie, or the heartbreak of Sara Bareilles, to name a few.

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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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