In the ancient world, purple was originally the colour reserved for the imperial families of Rome, Persia and Egypt and while it’s no longer elitist, there’s still something special to be had to the red-meets-blue hue. Our Purple Pop selection showcases the most luxurious, beautiful and unmissable pop music finds for our ears to yours.
Easing our way into this Purple Pop playlist is a song that resonates with such emotional authenticity. With a voice that exudes vulnerability and strength, Bre Kennedy captures the complexities of returning to a familiar but ultimately toxic relationship in her new single ‘Keep Going Back’. The song’s melancholic melodies are woven with a sense of empowerment, as Kennedy explores the internal struggle of breaking free. Produced by Davis Naish and mixed by Konrad Snyder, the track’s lush production complements Kennedy’s soulful delivery. ‘Keep Going Back’ is a poignant reflection on the human experience, highlighting the tension between longing and self-preservation.
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At just 16 years old, London Cheshire belies his age with a surprising level of maturity with his debut single, ‘Uncomfortable’. The release showcases a distinct musical personality through this track; from the production, to the prominent vocals, to the soft percussion and acoustic guitar. It all works together to create a stripped-down, authentic atmosphere. This minimalistic approach has made the song a perfect canvas for his emotive vocals and introspective lyrics. London Cheshire’s ability to convey depth and emotion in his music is impressive, hinting at a promising future in the industry.
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‘Initial Pulse’ heralds a triumphant return for the West Australian alt-indie acoustic singer-songwriter Jay Wood. It chronicles the artist’s personal voyage of rediscovery and love after a life-altering accident, including relearning instruments. It’s not all about struggle however, instead the song captures the exhilaration of new love, symbolizing the rejuvenation of life—a fresh start brimming with hope. Jay Wood’s unique ability to connect intimately through her music, reminiscent of Phoebe Bridgers and Maggie Rogers, is felt through her heartfelt vocals and genuine lyrics. Her resilience and determination, despite life’s challenges, mirror the spirit of her music. Set to feature on the forthcoming Respire EP, ‘Initial Pulse’ was produced, mixed, and mastered by Norman Solander Studios.
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Taking a more guitar-driven direction, The Dead Presidents’ ‘Emotional Dumping Ground’ strikes a chord with its raw guitar sound and emotive vocals. The track delves into the intricate world of modern relationships, exposing the emotional rollercoaster of fleeting connections. The poignant lyrics vividly narrate the pain of feeling used and abandoned, capturing the essence of heartbreak. Backed by an acoustic melody that subtly mirrors the emotional journey, the song’s honesty is its strength. With a relatable commentary on being an emotional crutch without reciprocity, the track stands as a wake-up call in an era of casual romances. ‘Emotional Dumping Ground’ expertly conveys the complexities of love in a powerful and resonant musical expression.
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One of the enduring themes in music has to be coming-of-age, as artists try to make sense of that messy, confusing and exciting transitional phase of life. The latest songwriter to take a crack at the subject is Taylor Mecca whose ‘growing up sucks’ captures the poignant essence of this life event with authenticity that’s both relatable and introspective. The New York-based pop singer-songwriter’s emotive vocals draw listeners into a narrative of grappling with the overwhelming pace of adulthood while feeling stagnant. The song’s title says it all – it’s about the universal sentiment of realizing that growing up isn’t as glamorous as anticipated. With her upcoming sidelines EP, Taylor Mecca proves herself as a distinctive voice, echoing the shared complexities of youth and transition.
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Now, it’s time to venture into more ethereal realms with Dune Moss’s ‘Shake The Ground’. The artist’s enchanting vocals leading the way, delicately balancing intimacy and grandeur. Beginning with a tender invocation, the track gradually unfolds, weaving in quiet synths that eventually swell into a powerful declaration. Moss’s voice soars with emotional intensity as she proclaims her determination to shake the ground. The haunting melodies reflect both pain and unwavering resolve, creating a harmonious duality within the music. Through its intricate layers and poignant lyrics, ‘Shake The Ground’ becomes an anthem of transformation and inner strength, leaving listeners entranced by the spellbinding blend of vulnerability and empowerment.
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Our most extroverted and summery single this week is Eric Zayne’s single ‘Tropicana Kisses’, a spirited revival of this season’s essence. The track exudes a vibrant, ’80s-inspired charm, inviting listeners to bask in its playful nostalgia. Zayne’s multifaceted artistry shines as he masterfully blends bouncy synths, funky guitars, and a groovy drum beat, creating a new vintage sound. His textured vocals infuse the song with personality, while his production prowess is evident in every element. With a backdrop of a Southern California sunset, the song encapsulates the euphoria of falling in love during warm evenings. ‘Tropicana Kisses’ is a contemporary ode to timeless romance, destined to be the soundtrack of summer memories.
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Is there anything more bittersweet than ruminating on missed opportunities and unspoken emotions? With a backdrop of indie-pop sounds, this is the direction that Olen’s heartfelt storytelling takes in new single ‘Sister of the Bride’. As he navigates the complexities of love and longing, there’s an interesting contrast with track’s upbeat melody contrasts the theme of wistful retrospection, creating a captivating blend of emotions that linger in the heart. The musician’s ability to infuse his music with relatable narratives shines through, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences of romantic misteps. With a magnetic sound and genuine lyricism, ‘Sister of the Bride’ showcases Olen’s undeniable talent for crafting emotionally resonant and musically engaging songs.
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What started as a personal project has evolved into Vincent von Flieger’s journey, encompassing China tours, international performances, and festival appearances. In this evolution, von Flieger has crafted a unique and authentic stylistic blend, as you can hear in ‘Body Code’. Thematically, the track delves into contemporary concerns such as climate, digitalization, and media saturation. Produced by talents associated with artists like Bon Iver and Nils Frahm, the result is a sound that bridges modern pop, classical, and electronic genres. ‘Body Code’ poignantly explores the growing inclination among younger generations to question the status quo, evoking a call to action in these transformative times.
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Marking his dynamic solo debut, Golden emerges from behind the scenes with the captivating single ‘Roses’. Having collaborated with industry giants like Genetikk and Mike Dean, Golden’s individuality shines through this anthem. ‘Roses’ isn’t just a song; it’s an invitation to perceive a fractured world as a canvas of growth. With a sound reminiscent of Harry Styles’ vibrant energy and The 1975’s raw intensity, Golden crafts a sonic narrative of our shared human experience. This track gently encourages introspection, infusing sweetness into our perception of life. Golden’s ‘Roses’ is a lingering taste that draws you back, offering both depth and dance.
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Rooted in Joost Laméris’ personal experiences, ‘Lost’ traverses emotional depths through past relationship struggles, hopes and drifting romance. With dreamy ’80s-inspired production, the creative’s melodic contemporary indie chill-pop sound intertwines with his poetic storytelling. ‘Lost’ encapsulates the plea for rekindled love amidst disagreements and personal turmoil. The song’s climactic bridge and heartfelt lyrics capture the intensity of thoughts left unspoken. A beautifully structured chorus and intimate vocals convey the resonating message – a heartfelt request to mend what’s been lost. As Joost’s musical journey unfolds, ‘Lost’ stands as a poignant chapter.
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Propelled into the spotlight via TikTok, Bana Zahiti showcases her bilingual artistry with the evocative single ‘Pranverë’ (meaning “spring” in Albanian). Collaborating with psychedelic pop producer Empress Mantis, Bana weaves a poignant narrative, drawing parallels between the essence of spring and the exhilaration of true love, defying societal disapproval. Her music resonates with themes that transcend language, as she expertly captures the essence of the modern Albanian girl’s experience. ‘Pranverë’ not only melodically enchants but also unveils a deep truth, making it a captivating glimpse into the emotions of a generation.
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Valley’s latest track ‘We Don’t Need Malibu’ is a heartfelt salute to their dedicated fanbase, offering a sunny soundscape of gratitude and introspection. The song beautifully encapsulates the notion of finding contentment within one’s surroundings, emphasizing the value of cherishing simple moments and making any place special. The track’s airy production, layered with carefully curated textures, creates an ethereal daydream-like ambiance that perfectly suits the upcoming summer season. As Valley gears up to release their sophomore album, Lost In Translation, this track serves as a musical embrace, a warm thank-you to fans who’ve journeyed with them across eras and tours. It’s a melodious reminder of the connection between musicians and listeners, brimming with appreciation and sincerity.
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PURPLE MELON 