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.
Norwegian duo Oakland Rain’s new single ‘If You Were A Song’ is a poignant ode to their American roots and family legacy. Part of their debut album Twin Flames, the country ballad pays homage to their grandfather’s love for American folk music. With delicate instrumentation including guitar, fiddle, and banjo, the song evokes nostalgia and imagery of Mustang drives by the ocean. Mirroring twins Maren and Charlotte Wallevik’s harmonious vocals, the track embodies the influence of Simon & Garfunkel. Twin Flames explores themes of identity and the duality of fear and freedom, promising a captivating journey through Americana and Nordic pop landscapes.
Follow Oakland Rain on Instagram.
Faux Real’s single ‘Rent Free’ captures the essence of euphoric lamentation, where hope intertwines with despair amidst pulsating Europop beats. Brothers Virgile and Elliott Arndt craft a sonic journey marked by bold guitars, glitchy software, and infectious rhythms. The track serves as a tantalizing glimpse into their long-awaited debut album, Faux Ever, slated for release on May 24th via City Slang. Recorded across global locales like Paris, New York, and Los Angeles, ‘Faux Ever’ promises a symphony of head-banging and longing, blending sultry harmonies, playful beats, and existential musings into a glossy pop tapestry.
Follow Faux Real on Instagram.
Aoife O’Donovan’s latest single ‘Daughters’ from her upcoming album All My Friends reflects on the enduring struggle for women’s rights, drawing parallels between the Suffragette movement and modern aspirations. Recorded live at Full Sail University, Aoife’s poignant vocals intertwine with lush string arrangements by The Knights and mesmerizing harmonies by the San Francisco Girls’ Chorus. The album, self-produced and featuring special guests like Anaïs Mitchell and Sierra Hull, delves into the evolving landscape of women’s rights in America. Accompanied by a US tour and the curated festival Light In The Eastern Sky, Aoife O’Donovan continues to champion the timeless quest for equality.
Follow Aoife O’Donovan on Instagram.
Ruxley’s latest single ‘what it is to love’ delves into the profound journey of parenthood, inspired by the singer-songwriter’s own experiences as a new father. Reflecting on the unconditional love and insecurities that accompany fatherhood, the songwriter crafts a heartfelt ode to cherishing every moment with his son. The track, released via [PIAS] Recordings, follows Ruxley’s previous viral hit ‘this song shouldn’t exist’ and showcases his evolution as an artist. Drawing from personal struggles and triumphs, the artist’s music resonates with authenticity and vulnerability. With his return to [PIAS] Recordings, Ruxley continues to explore themes of love and loss, offering listeners his most candid reflections yet.
Follow Ruxley on Instagram.
Danny L’Amour’s single ‘You Made Me Hate LA’ is a gritty east coast surf rock breakup anthem, capturing the essence of a love gone sour. Recorded in Times Square’s Lounge Studios, the track blends raw indie-alt rock with mellow yet poignant lyrics, evoking nostalgic reminiscing and singalongs. Danny L’Amour, a versatile artist signed to Rat Tooth Records, infuses the song with a modern pop flare reminiscent of Harry Styles, while drawing inspiration from rock greats like David Bowie and Tom Petty. With production influences from Tame Impala and The Strokes, ‘You Made Me Hate LA’ showcases Danny L’Amour’s eclectic sound and emotional storytelling prowess.
Follow Danny L’Amour on Instagram.
Renowned singer-songwriter and producer Lauren Christy revisits her iconic hit with Avril Lavigne, ‘Sk8ter Boi’, releasing a reimagined, moody cover for its 22nd anniversary. This single heralds the forthcoming album Their Hits My Way. Lauren’s journey into music began early, discovering her songwriting talent at age five. Rising to prominence with her self-titled debut album, she earned accolades and nominations for her single ‘The Color of the Night’. As a co-creator of The Matrix, she contributed to Avril Lavigne’s breakout album LET GO, garnering Grammy nominations and international acclaim. Lauren Christy continues to shape the music industry with her prolific songwriting and production work.
Follow Lauren Christy on Instagram.
Bron’s single ‘Drink It In’ invites listeners into a cinematic and ethereal world, where intimate melodies and gentle vocals blend seamlessly with layers of strings and piano. Inspired by nature and her upbringing in Victoria’s Dandenong Ranges, Bronwyn Rose Hicks, known as Bron, crafts music that straddles chamber pop and contemporary folk. Collaborating with producer Glenn Lavender, her forthcoming EP promises a journey of self-discovery and wonder. With lyrics reflecting on the fleeting nature of life and the importance of cherishing each moment, ‘Drink It In’ is a poignant reminder to embrace the present and treasure every precious moment.
Follow Bron on Instagram.
‘PICK A FACE FOR IT’ marks a vibrant venture into alternative-R&B, blending Y2K nostalgia with Huron John’s psychedelic twist. Co-penned with R&B luminary Bren Joy, the track delves into the nuanced experience of adapting one’s persona to fit diverse social settings. Infused with mid-2000s acoustic guitar riffs and booming 808 bass hits, it’s a fusion of hip-hop and pop sensibilities. Huron John’s velvety vocals soar over rainbow synthesizers, creating an immersive sonic experience. Seamlessly bridging alternative-pop, hip-hop, and R&B realms, ‘PICK A FACE FOR IT’ serves as a compelling commentary on contemporary social pressures while delivering an infectious earworm of a tune.
Follow Huron John on Instagram.
Leah Haworth’s single ‘To The Moon And Back; is a heartfelt acoustic ballad capturing the magic of new love. Recorded partly in Leah’s shed and completed at Peter Lyons’ London studio, the song evokes the enchantment of meeting someone special at a party. Inspired by the cosmos and the mysteries of the universe, Leah penned the song in 2022 and finalized it with producer Peter Lyons in 2023. Hailing from Lancashire, Leah’s intimate songwriting and emotive vocals reflect her lifelong passion for music. Signed to Point Blank Recordings, Leah Haworth’s debut EP promises to showcase her talent and emotional depth.
Follow Leah Haworth on Instagram.
PURPLE MELON 