Music
Chance The Rapper Releases His ‘Are U Live’ Video With Jeremih And Valee
The Chicago rappers spread holiday cheer as they encourage one of their own to get well soon. …
Chance The Rapper and Jeremih’s 2016 holiday mixtape Merry Christmas Lil’ Mama is an odd bit of internet ephemera. It’s a fan favorite, yet fans can only stream it sporadically, as the two uploaded the project and its 2017 follow-up to SoundCloud originally but not to more mainstream services like Apple Music, Spotify, and Tidal. While Jeremih is currently recovering from a bad case of COVID-19, Chance decided to spread a little holiday cheer by releasing the video for one of the project’s songs, “Are U Live,” after holding onto it since 2017.
The video was directed by Cole Bennett (no relation to Chance or his brother Taylor) of Lyrical Lemonade at the start of his rise as one of hip-hop’s most sought-after video shooters, while the track itself was produced by ChaseTheMoney, a SoundCloud rapper go-to who has since produced for Dreamville and J. Cole on Revenge Of The Dreamers III and JID’s DiCaprio 2. Like plenty of Cole Bennett’s previous works, the video blends a low-fi aesthetic with a simple concept, as well a cheeky sense of humor with on-screen captions pointing out a failed “successful dap” and more. He even appears in the video, although you’ll have to have a sharp eye to catch his cameo.
The song isn’t what you’d call a traditional Christmas song, with its call-and-response, sparse beat, and the artists’ rap athletics. But the video displays their festive mood, with Santa caps and fairy lights aplenty decorating their red cup turn up.
Watch “Are U Live” above and listen to Merry Christmas Lil’ Mama below.
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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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“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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