Music
Houston Pop Artist Confronts Inner Demons on LoFi Single “lately i been”
“lately i been” is a vibey, introspective reflection for mental health challenges and feeling directionless in life.
Houston-based pop artist tonnhi is expanding his musical landscape with his upcoming lofi R&B single, “lately i been,” out January 14. Paired with the sparkling vocals of indie (R&B) artist Jolise, the single describes the hardships and circumstances that prevent one from moving forward. The two singers touch on feelings of isolation and struggles with mental health. “Songs like this are important, especially as society works to create an open space to discuss mental health issues,” says Jolise.
Working together came naturally for the two during quarantine, says tonnhi. “Funny enough, I had a vocal melody idea already made for the second verse for Jolise to write lyrics over, but she completely made her own thing, and I’m so glad she did, because she brought this song to a whole new level. She killed it!” Reminiscent of pop artists like H.E.R. and Joji, “lately i been” casually dives into the raw, honest message of owning your struggles. Fans of all ages can relate to this single as society combats the trials presented by the pandemic alongside the growing pains of simply being human. The introspective track features lo-fi soundscapes paired with a strong R&B/pop core, which is the perfect delivery for such an engaging message.
Fans can stream “lately i been” on January 14.
Houston-born singer songwriter and producer “tonnhi” has been creating music since early 2020. His music tends to fall under the indie/alternative umbrella, but he often dives into the hip hop, R&B, pop and soundtrack genres as well. Tonnhi started his musical journey at the age of 6 when he picked up the violin. After mainly playing in orchestras throughout his childhood, he eventually took on performing across Houston as a solo freestyle violinist, where he learned what his personal music style is. Some major influences of his include Jon Bellion, Twenty One Pilots, Childish Gambino, and Studio Ghibli composer Joe Hisaishi. These influences, along with his orchestral background give tonnhi a unique take on songwriting and production, often creating a cheeky yet enchanting vibe with his music.
Houston-based Singer/songwriter Jolise started out at a very early age writing songs, singing in talent shows, and competing in choir competitions and continued to do this all the way through her school career. Her current music style is mainly R&B with a touch of pop and indie/alternative as she continues to write, produce, and perform around Houston. Her vocal delivery is more on the gentle side, and with her soft controlled tone, Jolise provides the listener with a smooth and soothing experience with her vocal performance. Some of her biggest musical/vocal inspirations include Toni Braxton, Babyface, Ariana Grande, Giveon, Mac Ayres, Amber Mark, Charlie Wilson, Lucky Daye, and HONNE.
Artist Spotlight
“Hell has frozen over” finds Sarina choosing peace over being understood
Sarina’s new track, “Hell has frozen over,” explores the less dramatic, more complicated moment of reaching the end of the road, being gaslit, ignored, rejected, and painfully lonely. It translates the emotional burnout into a rock-pop context that’s easy to understand.
“Hell has frozen over” focuses on the decision to step away, instead of explaining, defending, or seeking understanding from people who refuse to listen. The rock foundation gives it the right weight, the pop influence makes it accessible, and the focus stays on the emotional message.
Sarina’s art is the struggle of loss and being strong in yourself. It’s about understanding that protecting your peace is more important than being understood. And that’s the emotional balance that gives the release its character so that the subject matter has relevance beyond a particular circumstance.
“Hell has frozen over“ is a relief from the burden of carrying on a debate that will never be resolved. Sarina turns an experience of isolation into a statement about boundaries, resilience, and the choice not to get caught in the same cycle. The result is a record that’s at its best when it’s being true to what it feels like to finally be free from whatever has been holding you down.
Photo Credit: Andrea Hunter
Artist Spotlight
Girlhood finds summer warmth and quiet freedom on “Lemon Aid”
“Lemon Aid“ is a warm indie-pop ballad from Girlhood that finds comfort in the ordinary and weaves in a sense of release. This song is about surrendering to the moment, finding space to breathe, and letting a little lightness back in. This reflective core is surprising, given the warm summer-night feel of the track, hinting at a moment of emotional rebalancing.
Singer-songwriter Natalie Holmes has a tender personality and fronts the slow-burning “Lemon Aid.” The production supports that softness, keeping the song’s gentle mood and intimate direction front and center. Beneath the comfort is a thoughtful examination of pressure, transition, and the need to pause.
The song’s link to the streets of Stroud offers yet another layer of art to the work. Familiar places can mean something when life feels uncertain, and the emotional scene involves storefronts, parks, cafes, and leafy, winding streets. “Lemon Aid“ searches for beauty in everyday places and rituals, finding still moments that mean something without getting carried away.
The track is the first release of Girlhood’s forthcoming album, “This Will Make Sense In The End,” a more reflective chapter with hope at its heart. “Lemon Aid” is about softness, conjuring a space where dancing, wandering, and just existing can feel like a cure. It’s an unleashing of small observations and soft emotional movement and a clear indication of the thoughtful direction that Girlhood is heading next.
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