Music

This Jazz Arrangement Of ‘Georgia On My Mind’ Is A Fitting Lead-In To Tomorrow’s Run-Off Election

Lift Every Vote and CivicGeorgia have teamed up for a reflective rendition of “Georgia On My Mind” ahead of Tuesday’s run-off election. …

The pivotal Georgia Senate runoff election, which will decide whether the U.S. Senate remains in Republican control under Mitch McConnell or switches over to the Democrats, is fast approaching. And by fast approaching we mean it’s tomorrow. This means if you’re planning on lending a helping hand in some way — be it by phone banking, posting support to social channels, or donating (or voting, if you’re a Georgian) — now is the time to get to it.

In a call to action for Georgia voters, Lift Every Vote, a collective of musicians and creators teamed up with the BIPOC-led Georgia-based non-partisan group of organizers CivicGeorgia for a special campaign focused on boosting voter turnout and raising donations for grassroots civic engagement, specifically relating to the Georgia runoff. The campaign features a fitting and dramatically reimagined rendition of the Ray Charles classic “Georgia on My Mind,” arranged and produced by Grammy Nominated bass clarinetist Oran Etkin.

A cover of “Georgia on My Mind” while everyone in the country is literally obsessing over Georgia might seem a little too on the nose, but Etkin switches things up here playing with the song’s harmony and melody and leaving plenty of space for his remote jazz group (consisting of players from LA, NYC, Miami, and Georgia) to express themselves.

“The video is structured as a flowing series of musical conversations — oftentimes between a vocalist and an instrumentalist because I think what we want to do is promote open conversation around the issues our country faces,” Etkin says. “I wanted to create something fresh and new out of the familiarity of ‘Georgia on My Mind,’ so this arrangement plays with the harmony and groove of the original song and leaves room for all of the wonderful artists to add their own voices. I hope this can be an inspiration to create something fresh and new within our political system that can give everyone room to lift their voices.”

Check out Etkin’s arrangement above and make sure to vote. If you’d like to donate to CivicGeorgia, visit the organization’s website here, and keep in mind that while CivicGeorgia is non-partisan, it is not a 501(c)(3), meaning your donation is not tax-deductible.

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Artist Spotlight

Kay Onishi drops dark synth-trap banger on latest release “30 SECOND RULING”

Kay Onishi is aggressive and unapologetic on “30 SECOND RULING,” a song powered by dark synth-trap production, striking piano melodies, and heavy female rap delivery. The track is built on the idea of a turning point that can change everything, pouring confrontation, sarcasm, and urgency into a powerful musical statement.

What makes “30 SECOND RULING” compelling is how its musical elements support its attitude. The low-end heaviness gives it weight, the percussion keeps the rhythm crisp, and the piano offers a melodic thread that slices through the darkness. Together, they give Kay Onishi room to deliver a performance that is both controlled and explosive.

Kay Onishi’s “30 SECOND RULING” blends dark production, stark musical contrasts, and unapologetic expression. The song captures the frustration of being judged in the heat of the moment and turns that tension into a statement of defiance.

Connect with Kay Onishi on Spotify || Instagram || Facebook || Youtube

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Artist Spotlight

Zoe celebrates Jamaican roots and belonging on latest release “Zoe Islander”

Zoe‘s latest release, “Zoe Islander,” celebrates the lasting connection between a person and the place they call home, and brings a strong sense of identity and belonging to it. The song portrays Jamaica as home, no matter where life takes you. That message provides an emotional foundation for the release, linking its pride to an experience anyone with a strong attachment to their roots can relate to.

The track’s catchy dance beat brings its welcoming spirit to life, giving the song an inviting melodic character. Its message also feels like an introduction to Zoe’s own point of view. The mention of Jamaica’s beautiful beaches adds another touch to that picture, helping to convey the affection and appreciation behind the song. Zoe is more than a place to celebrate; it’s a personal connection that holds meaning no matter where your journey takes you.

What makes “Zoe Islander” appealing is the combination of a warm message of home and identity with an upbeat dance feel. The song celebrates Jamaica, but it also asks us to understand the experience and perspective that informs Zoe’s relationship to the country. The tie to home need not weaken with distance. Zoe has a catchy rhythm and a sense of belonging, and it brings a release that celebrates roots, culture, and the places that stay with us.

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