Music
Rayoe – Extra
Rayoe is wearing a heavy mink coat in the hot desert of Joshua Tree, California in the opening scene of his new video. The song is called ‘Extra’, and it’s safe to say he’s referring to his over- the-top style and outlandish behavior.
Born in Ghana, the neighboring country to Afrobeats epicenter Nigeria, Rayoe had been recording raps since a young age. Living back and forth between West Africa and New York during his formative years gave him a unique perspective on hip-hop culture during the height of rap icons such as Jay Z, 50 Cent and Dipset. He has since relocated to Los Angeles, where the palm trees make him feel a bit more ‘at home’, though he admits to missing life in Harlem at times.
“‘Extra’ is kind of an ode to my Harlem influence in a low-key way: being African, I’m naturally extra — we love to get fly. But Harlem really takes pride in pushin’ it to another level, being competitive about showing out. The clothes, jewelry, cars. Extra!” he explains. “We had a lot of fun making the video, and the production company had some cool ideas like having the horse. I’m a bit tight ’cause we had a scene [that involved the car] I really wanted in the video, but I got the Benz stuck in the sand and we had moved on without it.”
The song is produced by Rayoe’s longtime collaborator Bug Dinero, who is based in Ghana. It samples Moroccan instrumentation complimented by bouncy drums and a deep, rolling bass line.
Artist Spotlight
“Make America” by Charlotte Morris explores patriotism, compassion, and change through storytelling
In the midst of ongoing conversations about identity, values, and the future of society impacting everyday life, Charlotte Morris responds with “Make America,” a thoughtful release of Americana and folk rooted in reflection, responsibility, and hope. There is only space to think about what patriotism really is and where compassion and accountability fit into the idea of a better nation.
“Make America” is rooted in the rich tradition of American protest folk, infused with the emotional weight of classic storytelling, and still tied to the modern moment. The song talks about national ideals, collective choices, and the gap between the image we have of our country and the reality we experience.
Charlotte Morris has a real vocal presence that fits well in the Americana landscape. She delivers the song with a personal, expressive touch that allows the themes to come through honestly. “Make America,” the first song from a new two-song protest project, points to a new and powerful direction in Morris’ latest artistic chapter. The song speaks to folk music’s power to freeze a moment in time, to challenge our points of view, and to spark dialogue. Charlotte Morris handles a powerful subject and gives a heartfelt performance that makes you think deeply, yet still leaves a door open for hope.
Artist Spotlight
Karen Salicath Jamali unveils “Marys Song,” a soulful journey of faith and love
Karen Salicath Jamali’s acoustic folk track “Marys Song” is a message beyond the artist, but the artistic expression is deeply personal. Built around a rare moment of clarity in the early morning hours, the song has an easy sincerity that makes it feel like every note was played just as it was meant to be.
The production is understated, giving each musical element room to breathe. The approach puts the song’s soothing atmosphere front and center, inviting you into a space of reflection, hope, and quiet reassurance. The song has an artistic identity, born of Karen Salicath Jamali’s decades-long relationship with the figure of Mary. After 30 years of exploring this inspiration through paintings and bronze sculptures, she is taking her creativity to the world of songwriting.
The cover art, taken from one of her original bronze sculptures, further connects her visual and musical worlds, making it a full artistic statement. “Marys Song” by Karen Salicath Jamali is a reminder of comfort, faith, and unconditional love. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to slow down and think and find a peace that’s so hard to find. The result is a beautifully crafted folk offering that shows Karen Salicath Jamali is capable of moving audiences with music and art.
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