Author: Henry Niccodemus

ROBERT RANDOLPH & THE FAMILY BAND

Unlike many Southern soul singers who earned their wings singing from the pews of their local church, Acantha Lang’s musical accomplishments were born of pure vocal talent and self-determination. Though raised in New Orleans, Lang didn’t find her voice until she stumbled into the good graces of New York’s most accomplished R&B session musicians — and now, she’s London’s best-kept soul secret on the cusp of a solo breakthrough. 

Growing up, Acantha Lang wasn’t drawn towards the spotlight, but she felt a calling towards music that she just couldn’t ignore. After moving to New York, this calling eventually led her to take the stage at the famed Harlem Grill, a now-defunct space where Black musicians would congregate after performances in the borough. From Puffy, Stevie Wonder, and Alicia Keys to the session players that ran with Prince, wrote songs with Jocelyn Brown and backed Acantha each Monday for her weekly “Monday Night Blues” residency, the Grill was home to the best of Harlem’s soul scene, brimming with the community and the culture of Acantha’s hometown. 

After nearly three years at the Grill, Acantha was headhunted for Manhattan’s renowned cabaret, The Box, where she became the club’s first female MC — a role that ultimately catapulted her to London to open the UK’s sister club. There, she was able to put together her band, write her own music, and start polishing her sound, evolving her voice into the mesmerizing, full-bodied instrument that American Songwriter has compared to the venerable vocal flutter of Aretha Franklin. “When I started making the music I wanted to make… there was no second thought, no confusion,” says Acantha. “I knew exactly what I wanted to do, exactly what I wanted to say… and I couldn’t have done that before now.”

That newfound musical confidence shines through on her 2021 EP debut, Sugar Woman, which Soul Tracks selected as their featured album of the month upon its August release. As Acantha Lang blends Stax-inspired funk with Southern blues, she tells highly personal tales atop spirited, shimmering grooves. Acantha’s storytelling style harkens to age-old blues traditions while grounding itself in contemporary themes, delivering head-on lyrical attacks on fake news (the tell-all “He Said/She Said”), odes to motherly love in the wake of Hurricane Katrina’s disaster (the gripping “Lois Lang”), and celebrations of Black strength and womanhood with confidence and pride.

Acantha Lang’s growth has been slow but sure: a whirlwind journey from humble beginnings to a steadily burgeoning career songwriting for the GRAMMY-nominated Robert Randolph, and earning endorsements from legends like Joe Bonamassa, Robert Elms, and noted tastemaker Craig Charles (BBC 6Music / BBC Radio 2) who distinguished Acantha as “brilliant… an independent artist destined for world domination” in a recent interview for Blues & Soul Magazine. Acantha’s rousing “He Said/She Said” appears on his recently released compilation album, The Craig Charles Trunk Of Funk Vol. 2, where he notes that it’s a track that “…will blow the cobwebs out of your eardrums and leave you breathless and eager for more.”

Acantha has established a dedicated legion of fans online through her “Standing On The Shoulders Of…” Soul series (currently over 10 million cumulative views across IG, YT & TikTok), where she honors past Stax and soul legends with spirited reimaginings of jukebox classics. Her exceptional take on the song, “I Wish I Knew How I Would Feel To Be Free” ultimately landed her a recent McDonald’s TV spot in Europe, too, proving she’s the perfect Nina Simone vocal stand-in. She was accepted into the Recording Academy’s (Grammy) 2022 member class and her single “It’s Gonna Be Alright” was on the first round of ballots in three categories for the 65th Grammy Awards nominations.

She continues to move from strength to strength. On May 13th, Acantha made her national TV debut, delivering a dazzling performance on CBS Saturday Morning, which included three tracks – “He Said / She Said,” “It’s Gonna Be Alright” and “Sugar Woman” from her forthcoming debut album Beautiful Dreams, out June 30th.  Watch Lang’s full CBS Saturday Session here. 

Armed with passion, a unique perspective, and a voice that stops people in their tracks, Acantha Lang’s full-length debut “Beautiful Dreams” is destined to propel her from an undiscovered gem into the pantheon of modern soul greats. 

Stay up to date at https://acanthalang.com or @acanthalang on IG, Twitter and TikTok.

For ten strong years, from 1983 to 1993, Swing Set reigned as the Twin Cities’ finest exponents of hook laden, guitar driven pure pop. Their cool-edged, rock/pop sound sent the group’s first album Life Speeds Up quickly into the top 50 of the U.S./Boston Rocks college charts, and the group received commercial airplay in major markets from each of their next releases with the songs “Don’t look Now” and Casting My Lines” from the CD The Soul Remains; and “The Hero” from their DIG release.

Mike Nilles … Lead/background vocals, lead/rythm guitars, songwriter, founder of the group … plays guitar with taste and feeling … writes and enjoys music with seductive melodies and thoughtful lyrics … plays many instruments … also works a recording engineer … musical faves: Beatles, Byrds, The Church.

Dan Prozinski … Lead/background vocals, lead/rythm guitars, songwriter … his inventive, ethereal guitar style is a result of Dan’s love of the instrument and his never ending quest for a new “sound” … as a designer he helps create a stylish, modern visual look for the group … musical faves: Bob Dylan, Mark Knopfler.

Ric Studer … Lead/background vocals, bass guitar … always positive, always upbeat, an effervescent prankster loved by all … and like his buoyant bass grooves Ric holds the band together … musical faves: Replacements, Bash and Pop, NRBQ.

Dave Nussbaum … Piano, synthesizer, songwriter, years of classical and pop training … an intuitive sense of melody and harmony … studious and inquisitive … just now coming into his own as a composer … provides the lush textures the band is known for … musical faves: you name it.

Mick Wirtz … Drums/percussion, background vocals, most musically trained and active of the five … is involved in jazz, big band, folk and computer drum programming … his style is fiery and imaginative … his upbeat, crazy yet steady good nature helps keep it all moving in time … musical faves: The Police, Weather Report, Box-Car Willie.

For ten strong years, from 1983 to 1993, Swing Set reigned as the Twin Cities’ finest exponents of hook laden, guitar driven pure pop. Their cool-edged, rock/pop sound sent the group’s first album “Life Speeds Up” quickly into the top 50 of the U.S./Boston Rocks college charts and received commercial airplay and rave reviews in major international markets.

Remixed by Michael Owens in 2024 @ Blackberry Way & Mastered by Andy Walter @ Abbey Road, Swing Sets debut album “Life Speeds Up” roars back to life in stunning fashion. Several tracks from “Life Speeds Up” find themselves in hit TV shows including Stranger Things & The OA on Netflix, Red Oaks on Amazon and Young Sheldon on CBS.  First released on vinyl in 1986, the remixed version is now available for purchase on CD’s & Downloads for the first time.

The opening track Blackout first released digitally on “Mini Hits of Minneapolis Vol 2” (The Best of Blackberry Way) has generated over 166,000 All-Time streams on Spotify.

“Elegantly simplistic, reminiscent of REM and The Pretenders.” -ALBUM NETWORK- “They’ve got the chops and the sense of style that show cool confidence…what a nice record.” – ROCKPOOL MAGAZINE- “The Soul Remains” the bands second release was named “Best Local Pop Record” by MPLS ST PAUL MAGAZINE Feb 1991.

The band found a significant following in Europe. Popular YouTube station 80zforever called Life Speeds Up “a brilliant alternative/Indie album, with no fillers. It’s a strong record from the beginning to the end.”

The Hero”, from their third album “Dig”, played in regular rotation on Cities 97 & “Don’t Look Now” from the Soul Remains played in regular rotation on REV105 in Minneapolis.

Airplay around the world has included Valley FM 89.5 Canberra Australia as well as Ardenn’ Café Radio Charleville Mezieres, France. Swing Set was featured on THE NEW MUSIC RADIO SHOW presented by Andrew John on RADIO SEAGULL Bridgend South Wales in the UK.

The Indie Cast Network Indiana, Spiders Dirty Rotten Weekend Canton Ohio, SDC Star Radio Denningan California, WKKC Pirate Radio St Lucie Florida, KDTN Radio One California, Bear Radio Buffalo NY, Radionomy Much More Music Radio Liverpool UK, Indie 104 iRadio Los Angeles CA and Sound Machine Radio Moyock NC. Sound Machine Radio is broadcast in over 100 countries. They are part of the Sony PSP/PS3 & Nintendo Wii system and they transmit worldwide thru this network. Swing Set was featured on The Artist First Radio Network world wide broadcast on 6/15/17. The average listening audience for this show is 98,000 listeners.

Mike Nilles: Guitars, lead and backing vocals

Dan Prozinski: Guitars, lead vocals

Dave Nussbaum: Keyboards

Mick Wirtz: Drums, percussion and backing vocals

Ric Studer: Bass guitar, lead and backing vocals

Produced by: Michael Owens and Swing Set

Engineered by: Michael Owens and Kevin Glynn at Blackberry Way Recording Studios 1985

Remixed at by Michael Owens at Blackberry Way Studios 2024

Mastered by: Andy Walter @ Abbey Road 2024

Illustration Design: Dan Prozinski Photography: John Campbell

“AcidTigerX, a Xennial hailing from the White Sands area in New Mexico, radiates an intense interest in all things related to space and computers. Their adventurous spirit has led them to chase eclipses across the globe and camp on erupting volcanoes. Since the inception of the internet, AcidTigerX has been riding its digital waves. Their creative outlet lies in producing Electronic Dance Music, drawing inspiration from a diverse range of artists including Frank Zappa, Pink Floyd, Nine Inch Nails, Prodigy, Skrillex, and Borgore. Notably, AcidTigerX exists on a spectrum of spectrums, weaving their unique experiences into the fabric of their sonic explorations.”

Press Release

AcidTigerX: Unleashing Electrifying Sounds and Cosmic Vibes

New Mexico, May 12, 2024 — AcidTigerX, the enigmatic Xennial artist, is making waves in the electronic music scene. With a passion for all things space-related and a penchant for crafting captivating beats, AcidTigerX’s music transcends boundaries.

About AcidTigerX

Hailing from the White Sands area of New Mexico, AcidTigerX draws inspiration from musical legends such as Frank Zappa, Pink Floyd, Nine Inch Nails, Prodigy, Skrillex, and Borgore. Their sound is a fusion of melodic energy, atmospheric textures, and rhythmic exploration.

Key Tracks

1. “The Call Of The Lonesome”: A mysterious sonic journey that immerses listeners in a cosmic reverie.
2. “What is it?”: An intriguing blend of beats and synths that invites exploration.
3. “Great Depth Of Blue”: Melodic and atmospheric, evoking emotions beyond the ordinary.

Where to Find AcidTigerX

You can find AcidTigerX on most Popular Music Platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music and others!

Connect with AcidTigerX

Follow AcidTigerX on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and interstellar vibes:

• Twitter: @AcidTigerX
• Instagram: @AcidTigerX
• Facebook: AcidTigerX

Press Contact

For interviews, inquiries, or promotional materials, please contact:

Media Relations Email: acidtigersounds@gmail.com

AcidTigerX’s music transcends earthly boundaries, inviting listeners to explore the cosmos through electrifying beats. Join the journey today! 

Interview with the afro pop artist “YCode” is an exclusive one. please read…

Q: Can you please tell our readers your real name as well as your stage name?
A: Iyanuoluwa Shoetan (Ycode)
Q: How old are you?
A:26 years old

Q: Where are you from and Where were you born?
A: Ogun State/ Lagos

Q: At What age did you start making music?
A: 12

Q: What genre of music do you particularly love? Jazz? Hip-Hop? RnB?
A: Afrobeats & RnB

Q: Who is your favourite artist and why?
A:Olamide, he has a charisma that makes him to stand out among other artiste and the way he vibez

Q: What are your hobbies?
A: Singing and Producing songs

Q: Do you play any musical instrument?
A: yes
Q: Where do you get your musical inspiration?
A:

Q: Who is your hero?
A: Mom & Dad

Q: Do you write your own music?
A: Yes

Q: If you were given a chance, which Artist would you love to perform with?
A: Olamide

Q: What would you like our readers to know about you?
A: I Am jovial and fun to be with always

Feel free to tell our readers more about yourself and your music.
Things like your goals in life, and what your current projects are?.
And also let them know where they can get your music or where you will be performing soon or regularly……

I am Ycode, an Afropop singer who appreciates all kinds of music. My focus is on sharing my sound with the world and hoping that everyone will love it. You can find my songs on digital platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. Right now, I’m working on a new song called Star Lomo, which is all about my life, my supporters, and my journey. Stay tuned for that, and I’ve got more great songs coming your way!

Hailing from the heart of the Caucasus and currently based in Switzerland, Giulia Fly is a versatile artist who enchants audiences worldwide as a singer, DJ, and performer defined by her glamour, drama, and infectious energy.  Giulia’s journey into music began as a personal outlet for her emotions, using songwriting as a form of catharsis to express her innermost thoughts and experiences. Drawing inspiration from her Armenian heritage, she infuses her music with ethnic elements, adding depth and richness to her sound. Her love for ethnic music from various cultures is evident in her songs, featuring Arabic instruments, Spanish guitar, and the soulful Armenian Duduk. Collaborating with Swiss producer Sergio F., Giulia has released several singles that showcase her evolving musical style. Together, they explore different sonic landscapes, blending contemporary beats with traditional influences to create a fusion that is uniquely her own. From the fiery rhythms of “Monaco” to the heartfelt melodies of “Viva La Vida” and “Yotambién,” Giulia’s music transports listeners to a world of dance, dreams, and cultural richness. Giulia is currently recording her debut solo album of original songs, set to be released later this year. With each composition, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, embracing her roots while pushing the boundaries of her artistic vision. Whether performing solo or accompanied by a band and dancers, Giulia Fly invites you to immerse yourself in her warm vocal tones and vibrant musical universe.

Hailing from the vibrant city of Los Angeles, B-Funk emerges as a dynamic force in the realm of contemporary music. Born and raised amidst the pulsating energy of LA’s diverse music scene, B-Funk brings a unique blend of urban flair and artistic ingenuity to the forefront.

From an early age, B-Funk’s passion for music was palpable. Influenced by the eclectic sounds echoing through the city streets, from the smooth melodies of West Coast funk to the captivating rhythms of 80s Pop, B-Funk embarked on a journey to carve out his own musical identity.

With an innate talent for crafting infectious beats and poignant lyrics, B-Funk quickly garnered attention for his distinctive sound. Seamlessly blending elements of R&B, funk, and hip-hop, his music serves as a testament to the rich tapestry of influences that have shaped his artistry.

Drawing inspiration from his personal experiences and the vibrant tapestry of urban life, B-Funk’s lyrics resonate with authenticity and raw emotion. Whether delving into themes of love, loss, having fun, or the pursuit of dreams, his songs possess a universal appeal that transcends boundaries.

B-Funk’s rise to prominence has been marked by a string of electrifying records that prove his uniqueness and creativity to his audience and listeners beyond.

As he continues to evolve as an artist, B-Funk remains committed to pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation. With an unwavering dedication to his craft and an unyielding passion for music, he stands poised to make an indelible mark on the world stage.

In a landscape saturated with conformity, B-Funk stands out as a beacon of authenticity and originality. With his infectious grooves and captivating lyricism, he invites listeners to join him on a sonic journey unlike any other. Get ready to groove to the rhythm of B-Funk – the next big sensation from the City of Angels.

This song was written for an individual who procrastinates and is hesitant when making life changes. It reminds you to make all choices yourself and don’t let anyone influence your decision. It inspires you to not listen to anyone and just be yourself.

“They tryna control everything that we own but body and mind is your zone don’t be afraid to be yourself..” –  says Keeana. A unique melody and captivating lyrics are created by Keeana Kee over the infectious beats made by the talented beatmaker Dedov.

Prior to enjoying the captivating tunes of “Shammah Praise,” a well-known Gospel artist from Germany, take a moment to go over the special interview we conducted with her.

Q: Can you please tell our readers your real name as well as your stage name?

A:Shammah Praise

Q: How old are you?

A: 53

Q: Where are you from and Where were you born?

A:  I am from Nigeria and l was born In Agbor

Q: At What age did you start making music?

A: 19yrs

Q: What genre of music do you particularly love? Jazz? Hip-Hop? RnB? 

A: All

Q: Who is your favourite artist and why?

A:Cecelia Winners

Q: What are your hobbies?

A: biking

Q: Do you play any musical instrument?

A: yes

Q: Where do you get your musical inspiration?

A: from the Word, from Nature also.

Q: Who is your hero?

A: Jesus

Q: Do you write your own music?

A: Yes

Q: If you were given a chance, which Artist would you love to perform with?

A: Sinach, Moses Bliss, Mercy Chinwo, Ebuka song

Q: What would you like our readers to know about you?

A: I would love them to experience the God in me.

Feel free to tell our readers more about yourself and your music.

Things like your goals in life, and what your current projects are?.

And also let them know where they can get your music or where you will be performing soon or regularly……

Well i am a multi dimensional personality, there is the side Of humor (comedy), another side of theater and another aspect of inspirational recipes of food.

My goal is to be able to  bring the Voice of God in Songs to every continent of the world, sounding Healing, deliverance and the Revelation of Love through Christ Jesus Our Lord. To contribute to the community.

We do music project every year for Orphans, Widows and Widowers.

We have another Project “led them young” in the order of Esther.

You can stream my inspiration in songs in sportify and all music media outlet.

Saweetie, the rap star, is making a comeback with her latest summer anthem called “NANi.” The music video showcases a vibrant and colorful portrayal of Saweetie’s daily life. The visuals share a similar color scheme and overall style that might remind viewers of a Barbie movie. Throughout the video, there is a clever product placement featuring Smirnoff Smash Vodka Soda, which changes colors along with the background Saweetie is in. The video begins with Saweetie enjoying herself in the pool, then she heads to the club, and later transforms a parking lot into a dance floor. She’s clearly having a blast, and the song perfectly captures that feel-good vibe. It’s a pop song that will definitely put you in a great mood.

Saweetie is excited to share that NANi is more than just a track; it’s the perfect soundtrack for a great time! This song truly embodies the energy of being the main character in your own story. It’s been a labor of love creating this single, and it’s only the start of an incredible journey. Saweetie has been working on this new music for quite some time, and she can’t wait to share more of this amazing journey with all of you.

Dj Aladdin, World Champion Dj / Platinum Producer.  Dj Aladdin is known for producing the legendary west coast group “Low Profile” with W.C. (Westside Connection). Dj Aladdin was also the producer of ICE-T’s certified gold LP “O.G.” and ICE-T’s song “New Jack Hustler (Nino’s Theme),” from the platinum movie sound track “New Jack City”. Some of Dj Aladdin’s recent song writing credits include Drake’s “All Me” feat. Big Sean & 2 Chainz and Jay Z’s “99 Problems”.

Press Release

Dj Aladdin, World Champion Dj / Platinum Producer is releasing his new single “CLUB UNIT (remix)” feat: 50 CENT. Dj Aladdin is known for producing the legendary west coast group “Low Profile” with W.C. (Westside Connection). Aladdin was also the producer of ICE-T’s certified gold LP “O.G.” and ICE-T’s song “New Jack Hustler (Nino’s Theme),” from the platinum movie sound track “New Jack City”. Some of Dj Aladdin’s recent song writing credits include Drake’s “All Me” feat. Big Sean & 2 Chainz and Jay Z’s “99 Problems”.