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Maddie Carpenter Follows Her Heart Into The Future On Debut Single “Cowboy”

“Cowboy” is a poetic masterpiece about letting go of the past told through Carpenter’s golden, honeyed vocals resting atop pristine keys and energetic banjo. 

Indie pop artist Maddie Carpenter makes a dazzling showcase of masterful songwriting on her debut single, “Cowboy,” released alongside a cinematic music video out November 18. Reminiscent of iconic lyricists like Sara Bareilles and Lucinda Williams, Carpenter beautifully articulates her story with passion, intelligence, and clarity on this subtly Americana-kissed pop track. “Cowboy” is an undeniably raw and heartfelt story delving into the difficult-to-let-go-of nostalgia and comfort that keeps young adults from embracing new experiences. At its core, this track represents the transition from childhood to adulthood; the attachment to a first love, specifically, represents a powerful tie to our younger self. For Carpenter, “growing up and realizing that your passions are taking you in a different direction – away from the comforts of your childhood,” is a necessary part of developing into the person we were meant to be.

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Carpenter sets the scene for this music video in a wistful desert. The singer-songwriter playfully explores the open landscape beneath a magnificent sunset, representative of the journey, sheer potential, and optimism for a beyond bright future. This video is simple, raw, and emotional; viewers get an authentic insight into the feelings and stories the songstress built this song from. Carpenter effortlessly conveys every ounce of passion she has for this story in her mesmerizing delivery throughout the video. She acknowledges the importance of working through such a profoundly difficult stage of uncertainty, especially for women: She says, “[women] often feel that they need to be nurturers and are told by society that they shouldn’t hurt others emotionally, even if it means sacrificing their own dreams.” For any young adults struggling to make the transition to adulthood, “Cowboy” is the anthem to give you that extra vote of confidence to take the leap of faith.

Stream “Cowboy” on all major streaming platforms and watch the video on November 18.

More about Maddie Carpenter:

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Maddie Carpenter is a singer-songwriter from California’s Bay Area. She grew up listening to pop, Americana, and singer/songwriter music and realized her love of both singing and songwriting at an early age. Having written her own songs since age 10, Maddie was confident that she would find her purpose in music as she grew up. With influence from artists like Sara Bareilles, Carpenter is passionate about finding the intersection of poetry, music and storytelling in each song she writes. The artist has been waiting for the right time – to embark on her journey as an artist on her terms – where she could take control to mold her projects into the vision. Carpenter is undoubtedly ready to take this game-changing step into the next season of her life.

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Artist Spotlight

“Pretty Ugly” by Archer Stevens stirs the soul with retro-modern rock vibes

Archer Stevens

Pretty Ugly,” the inaugural single by Archer Stevens, represents a compelling homage to the golden age of 70s rock music with a fresh coat of modern vibrancy. From the outset, the track masterfully exudes an irresistible energy that embodies vintage and contemporary influences, acting as a sonic bridge between eras. The Phoenix-based ensemble skillfully weaves their influences into a pronounced, personal narrative.

A noteworthy aspect of the track is its instrumentation. Recorded across three diverse locations, Phoenix, Los Angeles, and even Peru, the song has a global resonance. The incorporation of congas introduces a surprising layer of depth and rhythm, giving “Pretty Ugly” a distinct flair that separates it from cookie-cutter rock releases. This thoughtful musical choice enhances the song’s groove, complementing the shimmering guitar lines and soulful vocal delivery.

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Lyrically, “Pretty Ugly” plays on contrasts, embodying the emotional push and pull of life’s dualities. The heartfelt lyrics evoke a sense of intimate admiration and longing to please a partner, while the melodic structure ensures the track remains uplifting despite its introspective qualities.

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By drawing inspiration from the enduring spirit of rock legends such as Elton John, Joe Cocker, and the Rolling Stones, Archer Stevens pays tribute to their predecessors without resorting to imitation. The soaring vocals and driving rhythm establish “Pretty Ugly” as a cathartic anthem that appeals to classic and contemporary rock enthusiasts. With this debut, Archer Stevens distinguishes itself as a band unafraid to experiment and honor its musical heritage, thus carving out its unique sonic identity. The result is a richly layered auditory experience that captivates from the first listen, revealing engaging narratives within the music.

 

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For more information about Archer Stevens, please visit [website]. 
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Archer Stevens’ Pretty Ugly on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Archer Stevens | Instagram

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Artist Spotlight

“Do You Still Remember?” by Khynan Rhys turns heartache loss into soulful harmony

Khynan Rhys

At the age of 18, Khynan Rhy, a solo musician and multi-instrumentalist from Northwich, Cheshire, demonstrates exceptional maturity in his songwriting capabilities, indicating a wisdom that transcends his years. His sophomore single, “Do You Still Remember?” is a heart-stirring attestation to his musical aptitude and emotional profundity. It intricately weaves together a sonic narrative that encapsulates poignant lyricism, authenticity, and evocative melodies, effectively exploring the aching nostalgia of separation and longing.

Drawing on a rich palette of influences like Artemas, Daniel Caesar, and Ocean Alley, Khynan crafts a familiar sound and style that is distinctly his own. The track opens with a delicate interplay of introspective guitar melodies and ethereal synth layers, creating an atmospheric canvas that perfectly frames his soulful vocal delivery. The production, entirely helmed by Khynan and polished by Ben Booker’s mastering touch, feels intimate yet sophisticated without stripping away an ideal balance that lets the emotion shine through the song’s soulful compulsion.

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What makes “Do You Still Remember?” so captivating is its ability to resonate profoundly, transforming universal themes into specific, relatable experiences. Whether audiences are reminiscing about lost love, the bittersweet pang of first love, or confronting the emotional void left by bereavement, Khynan’s lyrics indeed hit like a gentle nudge to the heart that refuses to shy away from the deep memories of heartbreak, possessing a poetic resonance that endures long after the song ends.

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Through this second release, Khynan Rhys establishes himself as an emerging star poised for lasting impact, building upon the initial success of his debut single, ‘Closed Doors.’ He expresses emotional vulnerability that invites audiences to engage with his work. “Do You Still Remember?” offers a moment of introspective reflection on the sorrow of losing someone once deemed irreplaceable, proving that even in our most solitary experiences, music can make us feel less alone.

 

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For more information about Khynan Rhys, please visit [website]. 
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Khynan Rhys’ Do You Still Remember? on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Khynan Rhys | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook |

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