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Artist Spotlight

“Lost On You” by Isla Rico stirs a captivating anthem for the brave and uncertain

Isla Rico

This rapidly emerging Manchester-based alt-pop Isla Rico’s latest single, “Lost On You,” evokes a cinematic moment on a misty night when the early morning haze of regret coalesces. Deeply personal yet anthemic, it invites listeners to wrestle with those shadows of longing we all carry. Comprised of Cal Richards, Jasper Whitehead, and Harvey Rafferty, the band blends the edginess of indie rock with an ambient synth landscape, meticulously refining its signature alt-pop sound to enhance the song’s vibrant tone.

In “Lost On You,” Cal Richards’ enchanting vocals glide over the instrumental like a trusted guide, soft yet commanding, creating a lyrical intensity that mirrors the track’s moody, soaring melodies. Jasper Whitehead’s dynamic lead guitar riffs and synths feature an atmospheric canvas reflecting the uncertainties inherent in desiring someone whose feelings are unsure. Harvey Rafferty’s rhythmic guitar pulses and intricate harmonies ground the song in something beautifully vulnerable and relatable. The trio expertly marries Brit-pop-style drums with sparkling melodies, producing an undeniably authentic and creatively innovative sound.

The heartfelt lyricism in this production is particularly noteworthy, as it establishes a steady heartbeat amid its swirling emotions. Each verse builds on the previous, evoking a sense of unresolved yearning as if Richards is singing directly to that part of ourselves that gets “lost” in what could have been. The reflective yet uplifting chorus crescendos resonate with echoes of inner conflict and quiet confidence.

Following the success of their debut EP, Eternal Optimist, “Lost On You” marks an exciting indie masterpiece reflecting Isla Rico’s growth as an artist. With each listen, “Lost On You” transcends the label of a mere song, evolving instead into a soundtrack to those fleeting unforgettable experiences where uncertainty meets sharp musicality and emotional possibility. It brings a fresh perspective on alt-pop innovation, skillfully exploring the beauty of what’s unsaid, and it’s sure to stick with listeners, leaving a lasting impression on its audience.

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CLICK HERE TO STREAM Isla Rico’s Lost On You on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Isla Rico | Instagram | Twitter

Artist Spotlight

Lexi Berg stirs a soulful splash of intimacy with her recent single, “In So Deep”

Lexi Berg

A rare phenomenon exists within the music industry wherein a composition manifests as genuinely enchanting. Lexi Berg, originating from Stockholm and influenced by her distinctive upbringing on a houseboat, delivers an exemplary representation of such craftsmanship through her latest single, “In So Deep.” This Swedish-American singer-songwriter is noted for her hauntingly raspy vocal quality and her capacity for intricate poetic storytelling. Lexi envelops her audience in a cinematic experience, wherein the act of falling in love resembles a leap from an emotional precipice, infused with an atmosphere of warm sincerity, reminiscing about someone who once made you feel alive.

Co-written and produced by the accomplished Jim Eliot, a veteran producer with an impressive portfolio and collaborations with renowned artists such as Ellie Goulding and Kylie Minogue, “In So Deep” was meticulously crafted in the tranquil hills of Wales. The composition captures a sense of airy tranquility, blending sun-drenched sonic nostalgia from the classic 70s piano with heartfelt folk influences and the irresistible shimmer of Swedish pop. This results in a sonorous palette that envelops listeners in a comforting embrace.

Lexi Berg’s lyrics create vivid imagery, portraying scenarios that include hands submerged beneath water, laughter echoing through canyon walls, and hearts racing with each fleeting glance. These intimate vignettes embody the essence of daydreaming, further enriched by her raw, rich vocals, which glide seamlessly over luminous piano melodies complemented by subtle Americana nuances. It evokes the joy inherent in sharing moments with another individual.

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The track’s distinctive nature lies in celebrating the little things, which carry her free-spirited roots in authenticity. The verses convey a gentle, confessional tone, while the chorus unleashes a dynamic catharsis that promotes audience engagement, particularly in open-air settings.

In a music landscape increasingly characterized by cacophony and overwhelming stimuli, “In So Deep” provides an elegant respite. It enables listeners to escape into a realm of love and ephemeral, golden moments infused with genuine emotion, articulating a connection that resonates on a profound level.

 
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Lexi Berg’s In So Deep on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Lexi Berg | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook |

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Artist Spotlight

Who’s Making the Most Money on Spotify in 2025?

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In 2025, Spotify conquers the music streaming world, with 500+ million monthly paying subscribers globally. Considering the platform paid out $10 billion in royalties, a record high, during 2024, it’s evident that streaming is now a revenue stream for artists. Yet only a few musicians are making good money from it.

At the top of the list is Drake, whose 21.5 billion streams yield around $52.5 million. Next up is J Balvin, with $37.9 million this year, a clean-up job from his massive streaming numbers. Other artists who earned significant amounts included Post Malone, Ariana Grande, and Bad Bunny, each featured among the platform’s top earners.

In electronic music, the Chainsmokers had 7.2 billion streams and made $17.7 million, and Calvin Harris made $14 million. The first-place finisher among the grossers is Ed Sheeran’s “Shape of You,” which earned $6.6 million from 2.7 billion streams.

Although these numbers are impressive, most artists on Spotify receive a much lower payday. In its 2024 Loud & Clear report, Spotify found that only 4.4% of artists make at least $131,000 annually. On average, an artist in the bottom 98.6% of earners makes just $12 monthly. This difference underscores the difficulties many musicians face in the streaming age.

Dead artists are still having a real impact on Spotify. Pop Smoke, Shoot for the Stars, and Aim for the Moon have 8.51 billion streams, £29.29m, 6.79 billion streams, and £23.37 million in earnings with Juice WRLD’s “Legends Never Die.” Lil Peep and The Notorious B.I.G. are also proving influential, with their music still raking in significant amounts of money.

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Spotify’s global platform has allowed artists to perform in front of audiences beyond their home countries. In 2024, most artists who earned at least $1,000 in royalties made most of their revenue through international listeners, at over 50%. Since 2017, the number of female artists grossing over $1 million per year has quadrupled, signaling greater diversity and representation in the music industry.

The few artists who do make millions from Spotify streams get 1 %, while the 1% of artists get funds. Only a handful of artists are financially rewarded through it, even as the platform’s continued global reach and growing diversity create opportunities for emergent practitioners.

Let me know what you thought of this post in the comments if you found this article interesting!

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