SKOPE NEWS FOR MAY 23, 2017

Provocative Dancehall Anthem from Gorgeous HBO Actress

While its common for a new recording artist to be dubbed the “the next big thing,” Caribbean-American musician and actress Toy Connor stands out as a far cry from anything common with her unique Caribbean dancehall sound that captured the eye of Motown legend Berry Gordy, and landed her dance hit “Be in Love Tonight” on to the “NOW That’s What I Call Music” compilation alongside music heavyweights Britney Spears, Diana Ross and R. Kelly. Toy’s upcoming record is influenced by some of music’s most notable pioneers including Notorious B.I.G., Jay-Z, and Tina Turner, giving Toy a distinct sound that mixes the unconventional feel of Urban Pop with the seductive and moody authenticity of Caribbean Reggae. Set to unleash her own brand of music into the world this July with the release of the highly-anticipated EP, “The Don’t Even Know,” Toy is set to be the soundtrack of summer.

Embody releases new single ‘Lost & Found’

‘Lost & Found?’ is a pulsating mix of euphoric production juxtaposed with melancholic lyrics. Embody continues his journey of productions into a more pop landscape. A great companion piece to last summers ?Dreamin? track.

SKINNY-C Video “GET DOWN”

Atlanta rapper Skinny-C presents the music video for “Get Down”, the first single from The Commencement, his new EP produced entirely by ATL beatsmith Nobody Famous.

Dutch Metallers ONEGODLESS ‘The Calm’ Music Video Released

Dutch metallers ONEGODLESS have released a music video for ‘The Calm’, the song is taken from the debut album ‘Mourner’, out on June 9th 2017. The album is produced by Robin Zielhorst & Tymon Kruidenier (Cynic, Exivious, Skeletor, Codex). Mixed and mastered by Tymon Kruidenier and the artwork is made by GutsArt in cooperation with Zielhorst.

“2017 BILLBOARD MUSIC AWARDS” ANNOUNCE NON-TELEVISED AWARD RECIPIENTS

dick clark productions just released the names of the “2017 Billboard Music Award” winners from categories which will not be televised during tonight’s LIVE broadcast. Drake, who received a record-breaking 22 nominations this year, leads the pack having already won 10 awards, including Top Billboard 200 Artist, Top Hot 100 Artist, Top Song Sales Artist, Top Streaming Songs Artist, Top Rap Artist, Top Rap Tour, Top Rap Album, Top Streaming Song (Audio), Top R&B Song and Top R&B Collaboration. Beyoncé is the second most honored artist with five wins for Top Female Artist, Top Touring Artist, Top R&B Artist, Top R&B Tour and Top R&B Album. Twenty One Pilots is taking home four trophies for Top Duo/Group, Top Radio Songs Artist, Top Rock Artist and Top Rock Song, while The Chainsmokers were awarded three for Top Dance/Electronic Artist, Top Collaboration and Top Dance/Electronic Song.

2017 BBMAs Announce Non-Televised Award Recipients

CharlzFloyd, “Confident”

Newark, New Jersey rapper CharlzfloyD presents “Confident”, his new single produced by Kid Cannibal. CharlzfloyD previously has released “Dope”. “Confident” will appear on Gink00zerozero, his forthcoming EP. An only child with no siblings, CharlzfloyD was raised by his grandparents while his parents struggled with drug addiction.

Brenda Carsey Premieres New Single via Atwood Mag

Carsey is set to release her first full-length studio album this year (2017). The album features the Awe and was engineered and co-produced by Brian Frederick of Hybrid Studios and Stacks FX who has worked with names like DJ Quik, Whiz Khalifa, and Isabella Summers (the Machine of Florence + the Machine).

DRAKE BREAKS ALL-TIME RECORD FOR MOST WINS IN A SINGLE NIGHT

The “2017 Billboard Music Awards,” hosted by hip-hop artist and actor Ludacris, and actress and singer Vanessa Hudgens, was an explosive night of must-see, one-of-a-kind musical performances and exclusive television premieres from today’s chart-topping artists. Ludacris and Vanessa brought the fun, and the funny, with their wide variety of talents as they both showed off their comedic chops, singing and dancing skills, and even some rapping from Ms. Hudgens! This year’s show aired LIVE on BOTH COASTS from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Sunday, May 21 at 8:00 p.m. ET / 5:00 p.m. PT on ABC.

Austrian DJ & Producer MOUNT reveals new single ‘Melody’

MOUNT, Austrian DJ/Producer/Multi-Instrumentalist who conquered global airwaves with his hit single “Something Good,” arrives today with his new single, “Melody” featuring Bright Sparks, which is available via Ultra Music on all digital platforms now.

Davey Suicide Releases Official Music Video for “No Angel”

Blending “nu metal” and industrial rock, Davey Suicide is excited to release their brand new music video for “No Angel.” The song is featured on their third full-length album Made From Fire, which came out independently in late March & charted on Billboard.

“When Needlz and I finished writing this track, we knew we had something special here,” explains the frontman. “I can’t tell you how many times I’ve lived through these lyrics and fought this battle inside my head.”

ALASKALASKA hear ‘Bitter Winter

ALASKALASKA are an art-pop 6-piece from London. They make beautiful, groove-laden music that seamlessly blends jazz, disco, funk and R&B into a bold and playful sound uniquely their own; synthetic beats play alongside live drums, delayed guitars and shimmering saxophones to create something musically rich and delightfully intricate.

Band leader and principle vocalist Lucinda twists brooding and introspective lyrics – akin to the words of Arthur Russell – into infectious melodies reminiscent of Warpaint, Dirty Projectors or Talk Talk, which demand repeat listens and could as easily soundtrack a wistful evening alone as they could a party. They’ve built a cult following and reputation as extraordinary performers through a handful of low-key London shows.

Ian Hunter & The Rant Band announce new single ‘Ghosts’

Following on from last year’s fond tribute to David Bowie, ‘Dandy,’ Ian Hunter releases a second cut from his widely acclaimed new solo album, ‘Fingers Crossed.’ A vivacious stomper, recorded at HOBO Studios in New Jersey, and co-produced by Hunter and Andy York, ‘Ghosts’ was inspired by a 2014 visit to Union Avenue in Memphis where Ian and the Rant Band were invited to jam in rock ‘n’ roll pioneer Sam Phillips’ legendary Sun Studio.

The Long Fall Premieres Single, “Trouble” via LADYGUNN

The Long Fall is singer-songwriter Amy Rieckelman’s folk/ pop vision of life, love, and the bittersweet. Born in Idaho, Amy grew up between the Western and Mid-Western states, a part Twin Peaks and The Breakfast Club existence. Living first in small towns, then Chicago, and finally Los Angeles, The Long Fall became the expression of a belief that no matter where we come from, or what soundtrack we set our lives to, our hopes and desires tend to mirror each other’s. And whether it’s a season, or a love, there is a longing for The Long Fall.

Sleep Party People Shares “The Sun Will Open Its Core” On BlackBook

BlackBook has shared Sleep Party People’s “The Sun Will Open Its Core”, the third single from the forthcoming album ‘Lingering’. “The Sun Will Open…” follows two previously released singles, “Fainting Spell” & “The Missing Steps”. Written, recorded, produced and performed entirely by Danish multi-instrumentalist Brian Batz, ‘Lingering’ – featuring collaborations with The Antlers’ Peter Silberman & Air vocalist Beth Hirsch – is Sleep Party People’s fourth studio album, and the first release since 2014’s ‘Floating’. Watch the video for “The Missing Steps” here.

DOG’N’STYLE new music video “I Did Something Bad”

DOG’N’STYLE is back with a new music video, for their track “I Did Something Wrong”, taken from their last album called “Pub’s Crawling” that went out on September 9th, 2016.

Swearingen and Kelli to release album in July

Americana husband-and-wife duo Swearingen and Kelli are set to release their sophomore album, The Marrying Kind, on July 21, 2017. Unafraid of spilling their guts in their music, the Florida-based twosome of AJ Swearingen and Jayne Kelli presents 12 songs that challenge the listener to explore life’s hard questions while embracing what you have in the moment.

The Marrying Kind is an album steeped in the sounds of Americana and country-folk with rich harmonies and character voices that are a modern echo of the singer-songwriters of the ’60s and ’70s. Organic, honest, and real, their music springs from a connected, closely shared life. “The creative process is very vulnerable and we trust each other completely,” says Swearingen.

Xan Griffin Teases New Project w/ “Gemini”

Passion and creativity define young producer Xan Griffin better than any genre or adjective could. The release of “Gemini” ft. WILD is one that has been months in the making, with the California-based creator hinting at the beginning of something much bigger in the works with this particular single.

Marks – ‘Drain’

Following a standout remix of Spokes’ ‘Flight’ in 2016, Miami-based producer Marks returns to Coyote Records to make his debut proper with new five-track tape, ‘Drain’.

Discovered after the label stumbled across his Soundcloud page and lead track ‘Drain’ in particular, the tape represents almost a year’s worth of back-and-forth emails, demo submissions and tracklist deliberations.

JOHN LEGEND PREMIERES MOVING NEW VIDEO FOR “SUREFIRE”

Acclaimed, multi-platinum selling, Oscar, Golden Globe and 10x Grammy Award winning singer/songwriter John Legend premieres the official video for his new single “Surefire.” The moving video was Executive Produced by John Legend and his company Get Lifted Film Co., directed by Cole Wiley and shot across Southern California in Los Angeles, San Diego, El Centro, Jamul, and Joshua Tree. John gave an incredible performance of the song on the 2017 Billboard Music Awards last night, along with a duet performance of Florida Georgia Line’s song “Holy.”

Paris Blohm Expands New Sonic Direction on “When The Lights Go Out”

Masterfully weaving LINNEY’s emotionally-charged vocals and blissful chords over trapped out beats, Los Angeles based Paris Blohm makes an impressive Dim Mak debut on “When The Lights Go Out.”

UFOMAMMUT Debuts “Warsheep”

The Italian alchemic juggernaut, UFOMAMMUT, masters of melding uncompromisingly heavy magic with psychedelic swirls, recently announced news of a new studio recording, 8, which shall arrive on 22nd September via Neurot Recordings.

REACH ‘The Great Divine’ Album

Swedish hard rockers REACH is back – now as a power trio with a brand new album just recorded and mixed. The album has been produced by Jona Tee (H.E.A.T), and Tobias Lindell (Europe, Avatar, etc.) mixed the album. With a modern sound and strong melodies showcasing the bands abilities this new album called “The Great Divine” will take the listeners by storm. REACH’s new album is due for release in 2017.

The new material consists of 10 songs written by singer and guitar player Ludvig Turner ranging from the heavy opening track “Into Tomorrow”, the spooky “Nightmare” and the modern and catchy “Running On Empty” to the radio friendly “One Life”. More titles and album cover revealed in near future.

CODE ORANGE SHARE “BLEEDING IN THE BLUR” MUSIC VIDEO

Code Orange have unveiled their official music video for “Bleeding In The Blur.” The video, which was directed by Max Moore, is streaming now via The Fader who also spoke with the band’s Reba Meyers for a Q&A about their acclaimed new LP, FOREVER.

Sleepy Sun Share “Seaquest” Video On Relix

Sleepy Sun have shared the video for their first single “Seaquest” on Relix. Prior to this video, Sleepy Sun also released the single “Crave”. Both tracks will be featured on the forthcoming album ‘Private Tales’ out 6/9 via Dine Alone Records. In anticipation for the upcoming album, be sure to get in contact with Sleepy Sun and tell them your secrets… your stories… your private tales at +1 415-646-6705.

Chicago’s Dream Version announce their sophomore album!

Dream Version hypothesizes that Kurt Cobain spent thirty minutes a week folding laundry, and their mission is to remind you of that idea. Arriving in a poppy Trojan Horse, they’re here to blitz the romantic myth of the countercultural rock ‘n’ roll icon with an abrasive mix of candid introspection and wry detail. Since they formed over drinks after work in 2013, Dream Version has consistently reminded their hometown of Chicago that we’re all human and none of us heroes.

Room Thirteen’s Premieres New Video. “Roccopulco” via THRDCOAST

Room Thirteen is project of multi-instrumentalist, producer and visual artist Danny Clifton. He is inspired by solid gold oldies, swimming holes, lounge music, and tropical martinis. On “Roccopulco” he is joined by vocalist Heather Lee Smith and Courtney Asztalos with percussion by Dave Levesque. “Roccopulco” is out via Elestial Sound on February 7th 2017.

“PARTY ON THE WEST COAST (FEAT. SNOOP DOGG)”

Norwegian producer Matoma has teamed up with Faith Evans & The Notorious B.I.G. for his latest feel-good smash, “Party On The West Coast (feat. Snoop Dogg).” The track was released yesterday, May 21st, in commemoration of what would have been The Notorious B.I.G.’s 45th birthday. The track arrives via Rhino/WMG and is available to stream and download at all online retailers and services.

“Party On The West Coast (Feat. Snoop Dogg)” sees superstar DJ/producer Matoma bringing his one-of-a kind touch to the unstoppable summer anthem, “When We Party (Feat. Snoop Dogg),” featured on “THE KING & I,” the extraordinary new collaborative album from Faith Evans and The Notorious B.I.G, due to arrive everywhere this Friday, May 19th via Rhino.

Pokey LaFarge’s “Must Be A Reason” music video premieres at NPR Music

The official music video for Pokey LaFarge’s “Music Be A Reason” is premiering today at NPR Music. Of the song, NPR Music’s Bob Boilen hails, “The contours of Pokey LaFarge’s music have always evoked a time before he was born, but the here-and-now is center stage in the themes and messaging within” and goes on to assert, “[Must Be A Reason] is steeped in a soulful Memphis sound, breaking from the western swing and blues of his past five albums.”

Sweden’s ANDREAS MOE Signs To Nettwerk

Nettwerk Records is excited to announce that Andreas Moe has joined the label roster. The singer songwriter from Sweden follows the viral success of “Ocean” (with its 11 million combined streams on Spotify and YouTube) with an infectiously, and equally catchy single “Bus Stop” (Out May 19). Check out the full catalogue of music HERE.

While writing and performing “Bus Stop,” Andreas says, “I felt like I stepped out of my comfort zone a little bit. The song is about all the decisions we make or don’t make in life. It feels to me like we’re all somehow sitting at a bus stop, sometimes happy, sometimes sad…sometimes with family and friends, and sometimes alone. Opportunities will always stop for a moment and for a lot of us, it takes more than just instinct to step on board or grab the opportunity with both hands, it actually takes a lot of courage and sometimes an even bigger amount of faith.”

GOJIRA ANNOUNCE HEADLINE TOUR DATES WITH PALLBEARER AND ONI

Gojira have announced North American headline dates with special guests Pallbearer and Oni. The summer trek is set to get underway July 30th at the UC Theatre in Berkeley, CA. Presale tickets for the new headline shows will be available beginning Tuesday, May 23th at 10am local, with general onsale beginning Thursday, May 25th, 10am local for U.S. dates then Friday, May 26th at 10am local for Canadian dates. The announce comes hot on the heels of Gojira joining Metallica as special guests on their WorldWired headlining tour.

Electronic Duo FYOHNA Release Vivid New “Misjudged” Music Video

Los Angeles electronic duo FYOHNA have released a visually striking music video for their new single “Misjudged.” The pair stopped by Access Hollywood to talk about the video and give fans an exclusive first look. The video, directed by Erik Bergamini, can also be viewed on FYOHNA’s official YouTube channel. “Misjudged” is off of the duo’s debut self-titled EP which is now available to stream on Spotify and available for purchase on iTunes, Amazon and additional digital retailers. FYOHNA recently wrapped a west coast tour and will announce additional dates to support the new EP.

SHADOW OF DOUBT Premieres “Fade”

As WAR Records prepares to issue the No Mercy debut EP from Texas hardcore outfit SHADOW OF DOUBT – founded by former core members of Bitter End, Hardside, and more – No Echo has exclusively premiered the record’s “Fade” alongside a brief interrogation with the band.

Chelley – “Hella Yella”

Michelle Woolery, known to the clubs as “Chelley”, has created one of the most influential records of all time. Her hit single “Took The Night” has sparked clubs and females across the nation. With a heart wrenching bass line and 707 drums Chelley delivers a message to all females inspiring them to not care “what bi@#hes say” but for this Brooklyn Pop Star its about what the music says.

Frankie Carrera Premieres New Single “Godly” ft. Ezkiel

Frankie Carrera delivers “Godly”, an atmospheric recollection of his film-worthy lifestyle after leaving a presumably dead relationship. Carrera is assisted with vocals by Chicago alternative R&B singer, Ezkiel, who brings a twisted melody to Frankie’s energetic lyricism. The musical chemistry between the two is evident as their own distinct styles fuse together. At the beginning of the song, an unapologetic Frankie makes is clear he is over what was with the lyric, “I’m so done with the past”, that sets the tone for the rest of the song. “Godly” reflects Frankie’s exhilarating single life consisting of fast cars, beautiful women, and a blissful high that he finds consuming him in the midst.

Sam F Releases “Zone” Featuring JVZEL

Sam F continues his string of impressive single releases on Dim Mak with “Zone,” premiered by Popdust. Layering the confident female vocals of JVZEL over sultry chords, Sam F delivers an intoxicating crossover trap song full of attitude. “Zone” is the latest single from his forthcoming EP, Electric Soul, due out June 2nd, 2017.

Kelly McFarling shares vulnerable new track “Country”

Kelly McFarling is an Atlanta, GA born, San Francisco-based songwriter. Her work is reflective of transitions, the wilderness, and its navigation. Sometimes she plays banjo, other times acoustic guitar. Often, she plays a Telecaster fronting her band, The Home Team, featuring pedal steel (Tim Marcus), drums (Nick Cobbett), bass (Oscar Westesson), and various other Bay Area musicians.

Tonya Lewis Taylor’s Music Debuts in Ashley Stewart Stores Nationwide

Gospel Singer, Songwriter, Empowerment Speaker, Award Winning Philanthropist and Author Tonya Lewis Taylor’s music can now be heard in Ashley Stewart stores nationwide.

Tonya Lewis Taylor has teamed up with the plus size retailer to feature Tonya’s music as a part of their in-store playlist. You can hear two of Tonya’s chart-topping singles “Thank you” TOP 15 Billboard – and “I’m a Winner” TOP 30 Billboard – while shopping in over 89 stores around the country. “Ashley Stewart empowers women by providing stylish but affordable fashions, I empower women through my music and programs. I’m very excited about this opportunity and future collaborations that are in discussion with Ashley Stewart” says Tonya Lewis Taylor.

Kali Uchis Debuts “Tyrant” Featuring Jorja Smith

“A post apocalyptic love song,” Uchis says of the song. “Wanting to stay in the haze of puppy love forever and never face the power struggles, because that’s your only real escape from the cold realities of life.”

DC Rock Outfit Broke Royals Compete in Southwest Airlines’ Emerging Artist Competition

Today, May 22, 2017, Southwest Airlines launched Destination: Red Rocks, the first of it’s new “Destination” music series. DC rock outfit Broke Royals were chosen as one of the six emerging artists from across the country to take part in the contest for a chance to win the opportunity to open for The Fray at Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colorado on June 26, 2017.

At the center of the program for each participating artist is a Live at 35® performance, where artists perform onboard a Southwest flight at 35,000 feet. Each artist’s Live at 35 video is hosted on Southwest.fm where visitors can view and vote for their favorite performance, helping the artist rise to the top for a chance to perform as the opening act at Destination: Red Rocks. The winning Artists on the Rise will be selected by an impartial panel of judges and announced on or about June 12, 2017.

Broke Royals

Head North Video “God (Bring It Back)”

Buffalo, NY-based, cosmic rock band Head North announce their debut LP, The Last Living Man Alive Ever In The History Of The World, due out on June 2nd. The album was produced and mixed by Brett Romnes (I Am the Avalanche) and mastered by Jesse Cannon (Animal Collective, Man Overboard) at Barbershop Studios in Lake Hopatcong, NJ.

Having already received attention from Noisey, New Noise Magazine and Dying Scene from their 2014 EP, Bloodlines, Head North is currently gearing up for the release of their full body of work and accompanying tour.

EMI releases debut project ‘Planet’

Seattle pop-R&B singer EMI has released her debut mixtape, Planet, out everywhere today. The project was executive produced by multi-platinum producer Rex Kudo, with additional work from an all-star lineup of buzzing producers including Nav, Sevn Thomas, Bobby Raps, Leon Thomas, Charlie Handsome and AXLFOLIE.

KYGO RELEASES “FIRST TIME” MUSIC VIDEO WITH ELLIE GOULDING

Today, Norwegian superstar Kyrre Gørvell-Dahll, a.k.a. Kygo, releases the music video for his explosive new single “First Time” with GRAMMY® nominated, multi-platinum singer/songwriter Ellie Goulding.

N-A-R-C shares the track “Forward Motion” from upcoming album

Multi-media artist Pepi Ginsberg (Pepi Ginsberg, Companion) and Composer/Producer Martin Crane (Brazos, Martin Crane) have teamed up to create a lush debut under the moniker N-A-R-C (named for Ginsberg’s wink-and-nod handle, NewAgeRealChange).