Artist Spotlight
American Idol Contestant Zach McKenzie Returns with Transformative Single “The Day That I Found You”
Zach McKenzie’s latest single, “The Day That I Found You,” is a heartwarming and soulful ballad that blends country, soul, and gospel into a beautifully crafted love song. Released in March 2024, the track has quickly gained attention, even reaching the #7 spot on the UK iTunes chart—a testament to McKenzie’s ability to connect with a broad audience. The song’s central theme of love and personal transformation is deeply relatable, and McKenzie’s powerful vocals imbue it with authenticity and warmth.
Lyrically, “The Day That I Found You” tells the story of a pivotal moment when love enters the singer’s life, filling a previously unnoticed void. The repeated lines, “The day that I found you was the day my life got started,” form the song’s emotional core, emphasizing the idea of love as a new beginning. McKenzie’s lyrics are simple yet poignant, and they resonate with anyone who’s ever experienced the transformative power of a meaningful relationship.
Musically, the track leans on a rich blend of acoustic guitar, gentle percussion, and subtle gospel-inspired backing vocals. These elements create a soulful, almost spiritual atmosphere, which complements the song’s message of gratitude and devotion. McKenzie’s voice, with its deep country timbre and subtle gospel inflections, carries the emotion of the track effortlessly. His vocal delivery feels raw and unfiltered, as though he’s inviting listeners into his most intimate moments of reflection and joy.
The accompanying music video adds another layer to the song’s narrative, offering a touching visual representation of McKenzie’s love story with his real-life wife, Rossy. Directed by Joe Lane, the video juxtaposes flashbacks of a younger McKenzie with his present self, charting the course of his relationship. The video’s most poignant moment comes when the real Rossy makes an appearance alongside McKenzie in the finale, grounding the story in a tangible reality that fans can appreciate. It’s not just a love story being told; it’s McKenzie’s personal love story, giving the song even greater emotional weight.
From a production standpoint, the track shines. Producer Lee Turner from Nashville’s 2twenty2 Studios has crafted a clean, polished sound that showcases McKenzie’s vocals while maintaining a warm, organic instrumental backdrop. There’s a sense of restraint in the arrangement—no over-the-top production tricks or flashy instrumentation—allowing McKenzie’s voice and lyrics to take center stage.
“The Day That I Found You” is an example of how Zach McKenzie is evolving as an artist. Known for his versatility, McKenzie effortlessly blends multiple genres into a cohesive sound, and this track highlights his growth as both a songwriter and a performer. There’s a confidence in his delivery that shows just how comfortable he is in his artistry, as if he’s truly found his voice, much like the love he sings about in this track.
For fans of country, soul, and gospel-infused music, *”The Day That I Found You”* is a must-listen. It’s a feel-good track that will resonate with anyone who has ever experienced the joy of finding their soulmate or the peace that comes from realizing they’ve found someone to share their life with.
If you’re a fan of McKenzie’s soulful country style, I recommend checking out Buddy Miller’s 1999 album “Cruel Moon.” Miller is a master of blending country, rock, and gospel, much like McKenzie, but with a grittier edge. “Cruel Moon” flies under the radar of mainstream country but is a gem for those who appreciate heartfelt songwriting and raw emotion.
–Ralph Morris
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Artist Spotlight
Heliara unveils a symphony of courage in vulnerability with her new single “Cloak of Fear”
Heliara sings with a commanding and compassionate tone in her new single, “Cloak of Fear.” This stirring pop-rock anthem dives headfirst into the shadows of their anxieties and low self-esteem while extending a hand toward hope and promoting self-discovery. The Ottawa-based singer-songwriter draws upon her extensive musical odyssey to craft this unapologetically candid yet emotive track, effectively merging vulnerability with a powerful message of hope. The song’s lyrics invite a journey of emotional release, encouraging them to trade their “cloak of fear” for something brighter.
Musically, “Cloak of Fear” exemplifies a masterclass, in contrast, with the piano and bold guitar working together to create a fascinating interplay of light and shadow. The juxtaposition of its darker lyrical themes with an uplifting melody is striking, creating a unique sonic landscape that mirrors the journey from struggle to resilience. Heliara’s voice soars as the song builds, conveying strength and tenderness, a reminder that authenticity has power even in our most vulnerable moments.
What sets this track apart is its sincerity. Each word feels like it’s been pulled from the pages of her diary, making “Cloak of Fear” an intimate portrayal of struggle and affirmation of transformation. It’s a celebration of the process of overcoming adversity. Heliara’s willingness to embrace the power and vulnerability within herself inspires others to do the same, pushing audiences to banish negativity, discard their insecurities, and step into their most authentic selves. “Cloak of Fear” emerges as an empowering melodic narrative imbued with an indomitable sense of optimism; it’s a reminder that regardless of the obstacles encountered, we possess the inherent strength to rise.
“Cloak of Fear” by Heliara demonstrates that vulnerability can be a source of superpowers. This track is a must-listen for anyone seeking to embrace their courage and rewrite their story.
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Heliara’s “Cloak of Fear“ on Spotify.
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Artist Spotlight
“Wishing on a Star” by Claire Littley evokes a soulful odyssey of timeless classic dreams and optimism
Breathing new life into its familiar melody, Claire Littley’s reimagining of “Wishing on a Star” transcends its origins, transforming a timeless classic into an intimate, deeply personal narrative. Written initially by Billie Rae Calvin and recording popularized by Rose Royce, this song has always been a beacon of hope and dreams. However, Littley’s version delves into uncharted emotional territory, offering a vulnerable and soulful spin that feels like a heartfelt whisper to the universe.
Claire’s vocal performance stands out the most when she starts singing. Her delivery has a distinct emotive softness, a deliberate fragility that underscores the yearning at the song’s heart. Every word feels imbued with intention as if she’s not just singing about wishes but living them, shaping an atmosphere of intimacy that draws you in and holds you close.
Her production choices are equally thoughtful. Stripping the track to its emotional core, Littley creates a chilled, soulful arrangement that complements her vocals without overshadowing them. Delicate layers of instrumentation glide effortlessly, balancing nostalgia with innovation.
This version is unique because Claire connects with the song’s personal yet universal themes of hope, longing, and love in a way that resonates with generations. Her interpretation taps into these emotions, making it feel as relevant today as it did when the song was first released. It reminds listeners that the idea of “Wishing on a Star” is a metaphor we all share, a quiet act of defiance against life’s challenges.
“Wishing on a Star” by Claire Littley is more than a cover single; it’s a reinvention that will linger in the minds of listeners long after the final note fades, inviting everyone on a soul-stirring journey to dream and hope a little bigger. It’s proof that even the most familiar stars can shine in new and beautiful ways.
For more information about Claire Littley, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Claire Littley’s “Wishing on a Star“ on Spotify.
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