Purple Pop: being anne, Aria Ohlsson, Jenny Stenger, kelle, Natalie Clark, Austin Carr, Banners, Tom Thomas, Jaedasound, Ashley Elle

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.

Globetrotting singer-songwriter residing in Hamburg being anne presents ‘Strawberry Picking’, a poignant reflection on a past relationship. Navigating the complexities of love, being anne delves into the realization that sometimes we adore a version of someone they are not. Despite this, the song acknowledges the appropriateness of such connections at certain junctures. With a nostalgic and warm ambiance, being anne skillfully encapsulates the sentiment of looking back on relationships with reflection. ‘Strawberry Picking’ stands as the second release from being anne’s highly anticipated debut EP, thank you for ruining my summer, set to unveil in February 2024.

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Blending influences from her Filipino and Swedish heritage into Toronto’s diverse music scene, Aria Ohlsson’s showcases her poignant songwriting in ‘Someone Else’. The 23-year-old singer-songwriter draws from personal experiences, notably the loss of her mother at a young age, translating raw emotions into melodic storytelling. With a finalist spot in prestigious competitions and recognition from Apple Music, Aria’s journey reflects her genuine connection with listeners. ‘Someone Else’ unfolds with soulful vocals and emotive lyricism, inviting listeners into the intricate stages of love. Aria’s ability to navigate various relationships sets her apart, adding a refreshing touch to the alt-pop landscape and solidifying her presence as a promising talent.

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Rising figure in the sad girl pop scene Jenny Stenger unveils her latest emotionally charged single ‘What Ifs’. Hailing from a small town, the artist draws inspiration from her roots, crafting songs that delve into complex human emotions and experiences. Released back in 2022, her debut album, Trying My Best, navigated themes of unrequited love, jealousy, and mental illness. In ‘What Ifs’, Jenny Stenger invites listeners on a profound journey through the intricate labyrinth of love, exploring self-doubt and the aftermath of decisions made out of fear. The song captures the universal struggle of self-sabotage and the hopeful desire for a second chance at love.

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kelle’s musical journey, spanning Denver, Los Angeles, and now New York City, reaches a vibrant peak with her debut About You EP. Following the success of her single ‘Maybelline’, the title-track of the EP urges listeners to shed doubts and heartbreak, embracing upbeat optimism in the face of uncertainty. kelle serves as a musical guide, navigating the complexities of modern love with tracks like ‘Hard to Tell’ exploring the millennial struggle of undefined relationships. In ‘High Standards’, she imparts empowering wisdom, reminding us not to settle for love that doesn’t celebrate us. ‘Fadeaway’ concludes the EP, offering a reflective journey through the ups and downs of life and love. kelle’s sweet vocals, paired with energizing pop beats, beautifully encapsulate the contemporary love experience of longing, loving, and leaving.

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Scottish singer-songwriter Natalie Clark continues to captivate audiences with her latest single ‘MIRACLE’. Recognized by industry titans like Richard Branson and Nick Grimshaw, Natalie made waves after relocating to the US. With her powerful and cool voice, she earned acclaim on NBC’s The Voice and caught the attention of artists like Christina Aguilera and Blake Shelton. Having opened for Grammy-winning Indigo Girls and featured in Mercedes Benz campaigns, Natalie’s indie-pop sound is making a mark. Her Livewire EP, already featured in Netflix shows and commercials, attests to her rising success, and ‘MIRACLE’ adds another chapter to her compelling musical journey.

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Indie pop singer-songwriter from Los Angeles Austin Carr releases ‘Cool Kid’, an acoustic folk-pop gem that traverses the journey from insecure childhood to adulthood. With a blend of contemporary lyrics exploring queer relationships and influences from folk, country, and pop, Austin weaves a narrative of self-discovery. The track’s production features nostalgic elements like whistling, evoking bittersweet nostalgia, while AustinCarr’s brutally honest and clever lyrics delve into the universal struggle of changing oneself to please others. ‘Cool Kid’ captures the essence of personal growth, acknowledging the complexities of identity and the ongoing quest for authenticity in the face of societal expectations.

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Award-winning Liverpudlian artist BANNERS concludes his prolific year with the euphoric single ‘The Best View In Liverpool’. Following his latest EP and a string of highly-praised singles, this anthemic offering showcases the musician’s wondrous and progressive sound. The track, a homage to his hometown, features broad and immersive textures, a soaring atmosphere, and a compelling vocal performance. BANNERS reflects on the beauty of Liverpool, from iconic landmarks to personal, intimate moments. ‘The Best View In Liverpool’ encapsulates the artist’s ability to craft anthems, leaving an indelible mark on the year and underscoring his prowess in the music scene.

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A seasoned songwriter since childhood, Tom Thomas rose to prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic with captivating live-streamed performances on Twitch. In the past year, he expanded his catalog and performed at prestigious venues like The Monarch Tavern, Zeigelhaus, and the renowned Mercury Lounge, opening for David T Perry. Influenced by Mac Miller’s emotional depth, Drake’s versatility, and Bruno Mars’ charisma, Tom blends melodic pop and funk production with intricate indie rap, delving into themes of relationships and the quest for meaning in his music. His single ‘Woman’ stands as a testament to his diverse influences and commitment to exploring complex emotional landscapes through his art.

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Versatile music producer and singer-songwriter Jaedasound showcases her talent in the single ‘Here We Go Again’. With a rich background spanning hip-hop, R&B, pop, soul, jazz, and EDM, Jaedasound has honed her skills in producing and writing across diverse genres. As the founder of R.M.E, a recording company focused on music’s evolution and historical appreciation, she brings a unique perspective to her creations. Serving as the lead producer for Allaboutentertainment156, Jaedasound is not only a creative force but also adept at managing artists and live events. Her commitment to music extends to composing for films and games, making her a multifaceted artist with a promising future.

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Ashley Elle’s ‘Spring Street’ melds gut-wrenching lyricism with whisperpop vocals, delivering vulnerability in her poignant narrative of family changes amid her parents’ separation. Propelled by tender melodies and piano structures, the song is both an emotional memoir and an anthem of strength and resilience. With lyrics drawn from her journal, the artist captures the raw essence of a child navigating separation. Produced by Cazz Brindis, the track encapsulates the beauty and pain inherent in familial dynamics. An homage to shared experiences, ‘Spring Street’ provides solace to those facing similar challenges, showcasing Ashley Elle’s prowess in crafting indie-pop that resonates universally.

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