Music

BBC Introducing Picks, Livvy Lauren’s Genuine and Raw Pop Ballad, “Who You Are” As Record Of The Week

BBC Introducing has chosen a personal, honest track., “Who You Are” from London, UK area based singer/songwriter Livvy Lauren as its Record Of The Week. The second single of Livvy’s that the BBC has added to their rotation after the artist’s last release, named “Messin’.”

Livvy Lauren, a self-proclaimed adrenaline lover, takes inspiration from contemporaries like Ella Henderson, Sam Smith, Jorja Smith, and Doja Cat, whose dynamic performances and energizing lyrics stand out to Livvy above all others. The prolific singer/songwriter says “Who You Are” is a “truthful pop ballad based around a desperation for the person you love to be open, honest, and a true version of themselves.”

Over the last couple of years, Livvy has written over 50 songs, finding that her creativity blossoms at night and while driving. “The numeral of times I have had to drag over to voice record something on my phone or step outside the house late at night to hum a new melody is ridiculous,” she laughs. Her new release, “Who You Are,” as well as other recent releases, “50/50” and “Messin’,” are the products of that creativity.

Livvy Lauren has a new performance video for “Who You Are” coming out in October 2022 and is planning performances in and around London. Livvy worked with US-based producer/songwriter Alex Houton of AHM Media, who found her online and reached out to work with her. The two wrote and recorded remotely, at London’s Metropolis Studios, during the lockdowns of the pandemic. The lyric video for “Who You Are” can be found on YouTube.

For more information about Livvy Lauren or to stream “Who You Are” on Spotify, Apple Music, and all major music streaming/download platforms, visit https://smarturl.it/whoyouare-single.

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Album Review

Dian Sheng explores identity, life and love with “Sid” album

Dian Sheng releases his long-awaited first English-language album, “Sid,” a genre-defying collection of songs that includes pop, rock, electronic, and jazz. “Sid” is a deep, meditative exploration of identity, relationships, and self-growth, spanning 29 minutes and 12 seconds across eight tracks. This album is a personal exploration of the complex emotions of mankind and the vitality and jubilation of life.

From the opening track, “Right Now,” Dian Sheng establishes a sense of urgency and reflection. The upbeat song “I Come From Far” examines the connection between the self and one’s environment. It has joyful beats and layers that make you think and feel like part of the narrative.

The jazz ballad “Undecided Love” delves into the complexities of modern romance, featuring tender vocals and instrumentation that showcase Sheng’s delicate touch as a songwriter. “It Will Be Alright” is an empowering anthem about overcoming life’s biggest obstacles, combining electronic beats with a rock influence.

“Seventeen” is bursting with youthful energy, and its production captures the restlessness and emotionality of adolescent life. Two introspective songs with similar atmospheres, “The Way Before” and “This Life,” match chilling melodies with moving lyrics that touch on bygone relationships, self-awareness, and the quest for meaning we all experience.

The album concludes with “Shining As Your Name,” and the final few minutes of this piece alone evoke a strong sense of hope. Dian Sheng demonstrates his ability to join emotional depth with new styles. “Sid” is an invitation into the rich musical universe of Dian Sheng, where you can both consider yourself and feel influenced.

Written by:

Faith Koch

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Artist Spotlight

Feel the vibe with Sporty-O’s new EP “The P.L.U.R. Project,” a blend of emotions and sound

“The P.L.U.R. Project” begins like a rush of light across a crowded dance floor as jubilant, purposeful, and very human. This seven-song, 29-minute journey from the EDM pioneer Sporty-O is a cultural reset built around peace, love, unity, and respect.

Sporty-O establishes the emotional timbre for the entire project from the first track of its lead single, “Spirit Higher.” The song is anthemic, its purposes well outlined despite a high-gloss production. It’s a centerpiece that establishes the mood of an intensive exploration of sound and self-awareness.

“The P.L.U.R. Project” is just as much about managing your feelings as it is about moving. Sporty-O creates each record with intention, writing things that make people think on the dance floor. Another high-energy song is “Happy Together,” with Lorme and Chris Willis, pulsing warmth and togetherness. “SOLD!” has a clean, feel-good sound that embodies the community spirit of EDM culture.

Sporty-O embraces a multi-genre EDM palette on the EP, fusing forward-thinking sounds with uptempo beats. Tracks like “Revolution” with Specimen A and “Geek’d Up” with Baby Sweet provide lots of energy and edge. “Piece Of My Mind” is more introspective, while “Cheveyo” features a diverse array of collaborators and culminates in a rich, layered sound, all while maintaining a global welcoming spirit.

What makes this project unique is that it serves both and reminds people of the origins of dance culture. Sporty-O aims to help people rediscover the heartbeat of the community. “The P.L.U.R. Project” is an EDM experience that reaches beyond the speakers, colorful and thoughtful about meaning in music-based culture.