Valentina Black has a huge following of over 2.5 million followers on social media with a ready-made global fan-base that has been growing organically at incredible pace.
With her mother, also a musician, as a primary influence, Valentinaâs musical upbringing was one of wild contrasts; she listened to James Brown, funk, Michael Jackson and Jimi Hendrix while her mother nurtured her with Ella Fitzgerald and Disco music. The hefty presence of rock, rânâb, pop and funk quickly became telling factors, and a young Valentina was soon singing with local bands twice her age.
During this time she also worked as a dancer for main Italian broadcast channels (Rai and Mediaset). Her professional career took off a few years later, debuting with Jimmy Carl Black, the legendary drummer from Frank Zappaâs âMothers of Inventionsâ. Impressed by âher golden voice, a beautiful little angelâ, he recruited her for the recording sessions of “Freedom Jazz Danceâ as singer and Hammond organ player, under the stage name of Valentina Black.
Valentinaâs raspy and angelic voice and rhythmic flow has taken her into studios in London, LA, and New York. She has opened for international DJ’s like Fritz Kalkbrenner and many others, and released more than 70 tracks for a number of labels such as Toolroom, King Street Sounds and Kevin Sandersonâs KMS Records. She produced several tracks, including the single ‘Everywhere you go’, topping the charts of Shazam, iTunes and aired worldwide on BBC, Pandora..
âTIK TOKâ music video was shot in the South of France and it takes us into the golden hourâs sunset and the beautiful scenery of the streets of Antibes. It features all the necessary elements to create a visually stunning piece that complements the music perfectly. When watching it, viewers will enjoy gorgeous Keeana dancing barefoot on the street of the old city, joined by the nomadic Brazilian capoeira dancers and musicians. Keeana Kee’s “TIK TOK” song was written for an individual who procrastinates and is hesitant when making life changes. It reminds you to make all choices yourself and donât 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 beat maker Dedov. âTIK TOK will have you singing along in no time.
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 âLife Speeds Upâ 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 âLife Speeds Upâ roars back to life in stunning fashion. Several tracks from âLife Speeds Upâ 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 CDâs & Downloads for the first time.
The opening track Blackout first released digitally on âMini Hits of Minneapolis Vol 2â (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 âa brilliant alternative/Indie album, with no fillers. Itâs a strong record from the beginning to the end.â
The Heroâ, from their third album âDigâ, played in regular rotation on Cities 97 & âDon’t Look Nowâ 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 Ardennâ CafĂŠ 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
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 donât 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..” –Â says Keeana. A unique melody and captivating lyrics are created by Keeana Kee over the infectious beats made by the talented beatmaker Dedov.
Singer Tyla‘s sexy song “Water” has been dripping in success ever since it dropped earlier this year.
“First of all it’s a banger, like it’s a crazy song,” Tyla, 21, tells PEOPLE of her Afrobeat-tinged breakout about a steamy romance, which climbed to No. 21 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The tune has been an even bigger winner on social media, with thousands of fans using it over their own videos and testing their skills with the Water Dance Challenge based on the star’s impressive moves in her music video.
“Even before the challenge started, before the video went viral, people were loving the song. But I think what really took it to the edge was my performance of it,” says Tyla. “I worked with my choreographer in South Africa and we made that dance and when I performed on stage I just threw water, like I didn’t even think about it.”
Most recently she dazzled Jimmy Fallon and his studio audience, making her American television debut performing “Water” live on The Tonight Show. It’s been a whirlwind year for the young South African star and she’s just getting started.
Here are five things to know about Tyla:
She was born Tyla Laura Seethal in Johannesburg, South Africa
Tyla, pronounced TIE-Luh, “grew up listening to Afrobeats, amapiano, house Kwaito and all of that,” says the singer of popular genres in her home country. “But also a lot of R&B and pop also played in my house and I looked up to a lot of R&B and pop artists.”
As for her American influences, “I really looked up to Michael Jackson as a performer specifically. I also looked up to Rihanna and Aaliyah as well.” But when it came time to figure out her own sound, she says, “I knew that I wanted my culture in it. I made my first amapiano song ‘Getting Late’ and added pop and R&B melodies to it. With ‘Water’ I’d describe it as the perfect blend. Being from South Africa is the reason why my sound is what it is.”
In school she studied mining engineering before focusing on music
“Music was always the plan, but when I consciously started working towards it, I was in my last year of high school,” says Tyla, who kickstarted her career by posting singing videos to social media. “I was studying and writing my final exams but every weekend I made sure to go to the studio and just record, experiment, shoot pictures and just go for it.”
That said, her parents weren’t always going for it. “When I finished school my parents asked me what I’m going to study and I told them immediately I want to go into music,” she says. “After a lot of convincing they allowed me to do just that.”
She has over 6 million TikTok followers, and loads of admirers
Tyla isn’t new to social media, but she’s the first to admit things have changed. “I grew up on social media,” she says. “Like maybe at age 12 or 13 I would borrow my father’s phone to make social media accounts. I wasn’t supposed to be on it at that age but I just fell in love with pictures and making videos and musical.ly.”
These days, after going viral with both of her singles, “I am starting to feel the pressure of social media now because the numbers are rising much faster and I just understand the influence that I have now,” she says. “I have to be more careful and use my platform right.”
As for wishful suitors shooting their shot and expressing interest in the beautiful star on social media: “My DMs are always active honey! I’m telling you, there’s always someone in there that I wouldn’t expect, so yeah, it’s booming!”
The viral music video for “Water” almost didn’t happen
Tyla fans can thank themselves for bringing “Water” to life on camera. “We weren’t actually going to shoot a video, and then the song just went viral,” explains Tyla. “We were like ‘Oh my word!’ We ended up working with [music video director] Child and I’ve always wanted to work with her so that was exciting. It was a little bit stressful, but I had so much fun on set.”
That didn’t stop the rising star from having jitters ahead of the video’s release. “I was so nervous,” she says, “like I literally couldn’t sleep. I was just waiting for it to drop. But after I saw the response was good it was such a relief. I just felt so much better after all that.”
When she’s not singing and dancing, she loves lounging and scrolling
“I love to just lay down,” says the star, “close the curtain, maybe go on TikTok. Sometimes I watch TV or when I’m at home I love to just chill with my family.”
For Tyla, there’s no place like home, and especially a particular place in her home. “We do this thing where we just sit on our parents’ bed and we just talk about anything and everything. That’s something that I really enjoy doing. Basically, I just chill.”
Get ready to groove to the beat of the one and only Inamorato Ciardi (I.C.)! With a unique blend of words and sound, this musical genius creates a timeless symphony that will capture your heart. I.C.’s music is like a time machine, transcending age and transporting listeners to a world of wonder!
Audiences have been raving about his latest EP, “Heartbreak before the Love,” and his newest sensation, “The Greatest Time of Year,” is a musical hit, spreading joy and cheer wherever it’s played.
It’s hard to believe that this prodigy has been singing and dancing since the age of two, but his undeniable talent is a testament to his passion and dedication. I.C. is destined for superstardom, and we’re thrilled to be a part of his journey. Brace yourself for an unforgettable experience, because I.C. is here to stay!
Lucky Harmon is paving his way up to the top with his marvelous creations. He is entertaining the crowd with his thrilling voice. The prowess lyrics and catchy music of his song have their own flavor. The multi-talented artist is not only a singer but an actor too. He is working on every possible way to impress his audience. The balanced beat and instrumental music enrich his songs more. Other than that the perfect deliverance has fascinated all the listeners. His songs are surprisingly simple yet attractive, the pleasant music of him is capable of taking the spotlight. He has recently delivered his new song collaborating with the legend Lil Wayne, named âWild Cardâ. Even before listening to track the arrangement of it has done the half job of it. When two stars like these come together then it is undoubtedly going to be a bang. The excellent lyricism and brilliant music have taken the centre stage. Their passion for music has been reflected in their craft. Not only these, but the relatable approach has helped to garner more listeners. This song has been produced by Eddie Timmons aka Shyboogs , Masterkraft David Veslocki Colin Leonard. Lucky Harmonâ a topnotch Pro Singer, Songwriter, and Actor with exceptional singing skills as heâs also a recording artist that is reinventing the sound of pop music who has created a stir in the entertainment industry. From a multicultural background emerges his art and love for music as he started his career as a teenager performing music. Melodic and rhythmic in his flows, Lucky Harmon has graced many singing occasions and has performed excellently well. He is a native of the United State aiming to illustrate a vision through his lyricism and delivery of his art. Lucky Harmon is an exemplary artist who has never let down his fans. He has given a lot of soundtracks that have reached every corner of the world. âIDOLIZE MEâ has made it to the top 40 chart of billboard. All of his magical creations are available on Spotify and YouTube. Follow him on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and his own website to know more about his upcoming projects.
Listen and enjoy this trackâWild Cardâ, check out
Katie Belle is an American pop artist, singer-songwriter, model and actor. She is a voting member of The Recording Academy. Belle stays busy honing her songwriting skills with studio time in Atlanta and LA. Named as a 2022 Artist to Watch in Rolling Stone July-August Edition; Belle is excited to release her first single of 2023, âThe Best Youâll Ever Haveâ, slated for release March 31. Lyrics and composition written by Belle and Producer Fabio Campedelli have got a slick vibe going on this one! 2023 finds her focused on a series of single releases, songwriting sessions and filling her calendar with live performances. Belle performs as a Solo Acoustic act and with her band! Belleâs fall â22 release âNext Exâ (Producer Fabio Campedelli , WarnerMusic-Italy ) hit streaming services running and has received many great reviews. As Quoted âŚ.âNext Ex” is a stylish release from up-and-coming pop star Katie Belle. Sharp and biting, this track features Belle’s sensual, breathy voice as she conveys a curt breakup message, delivering deeply penetrating hooks like “I’m never gonna call you back” set to gorgeous modern beat design highlighted by trap inspired high-hats and booming 808 bass, beautifully colored by wobbly lo-fi keys and saturated guitars.( Steven Azami Music Blog) Belle kicked the summer of 22 off with her original “DON’T“; she’ll tell you this was written on the rebound! Feisty vocals by Belle backed with a real groove sound inspire a liberating vibe, undertones of sass all supported by fun dance beats. This song is a must add to everyone’s summer playlist! “DON’T” is a great Segway from her highly popular April ’22 release “Now That I Know” which is an upbeat snappy tune. Lyrics and Composition provide energy and metaphorical lyrics in a classic “end of story” relationship song ( Now That I Know can be found on Soundcloud )! Belle saw great success throughout 2021 with her releases of “DAUGHTER” and “BACK To California”; Overall 2021 was a pleaser for Belle as digital streams for her releases went well over one million.. If Katieâs name sounds familiar think back to American Idol S17. 2019 started off with a âgold ticketâ to Hollywood for S17 American Idol. Katie received her pass to Hollywood with her rendition of Jennifer Hudsonâs version of âGolden Slumberâ. Luke Bryan literally fell out of his chair as the three judges gave Katie her pass to Hollywood week! When Katie is not songwriting, performing her own gigs or doing studio work she is busy as Lead Female Vocalist for âColor the Nightâ. The Band plays college campuses, Black Tie Events and Corporate Parties. Katie has been encouraged to utilize her talents in singing, songwriting, modeling and acting. Her motto can be summarized as âbeing in the entertainment industry is a multi-tasking journey, modeling acting, live performances work hand in hand to challenge her and mature her talents. She recently landed a featured article in Modern Luxuryâs Jezebel April/May edition, the article titled âDouble Dutyâ explores Katieâs singing and modeling career. She has had editorials in Voyage Magazine, Teen Fashion Magazine and Embrace Beauty Magazine. Represented by TTM Agency recent bookings include: Grey Goose Vodka, POL Clothing, Basix Black Couture Wear, McAlisterâs Deli, JORD watches to name a few. She has graced the runways of NYFW, NOFW, Miami Beach week and more. Look for Katie in the MORPHE cosmetics campaign for âFluidityâ foundation and commercial print work for the 52 store boutique Fabârik. Katie will tell you she is open to all opportunities in the entertainment industry! Luke Bryan quoted during her American Idol gold ticket audition she was the⌠âGisele of Georgiaâ. Her modeling and singing parallel one another and provide continual inspiration for her music! Katieâs favorite social media is Instagram, you will find her on all the popular social sites where she is very active posting and chatting with fans.
Music is as natural and essential to Walter Hansen as breath itself. He grew up in a musical household where he first learned an instrument – the notoriously complex accordion – at just four years of age. With eager practice and innate talent, he was nationally competitive a mere three years later. Soon, his unbridled adolescent imagination and natural understanding of melody would compel him to begin composing and arranging his own work.
He picked up the saxophone in elementary school and was immediately drawn to the magic of using his own lungs to create music. Throughout his secondary education, his connected sound and high-level technical skill earned him over 20 superior medals. He also received a scholarship to Florida State University College of Music, one of the top music schools in the nation. There, he honed his composition skills writing and arranging for a myriad of the collegeâs musical groups.
After earning his degree in music education from FSU, Hansen fancied a bit of adventure. He auditioned for and was accepted into the highly selective United States Navy Band. While stationed in Italy, he played accordion, began to sing, and played the saxophone in every available military ensemble, from jazz band to pop groups.
Back in the States, Hansenâs childlike love for music and creative abandon are as strong as ever. Only now, they are enhanced by his lifetime of experience as a performer and composer. He began producing his own music shortly after attending a grad program at FSU, and his style is wholly and beautifully his own. His synthwave and jazz-inspired tracks artfully blend his voice with a wide variety of instruments, playfully reflecting his rich personal experiences and musical history.Press Release.
Walter Hansen is a composer, singer, and award-winning multi-instrumentalist currently producing innovative synthwave and chillwave music. His complex, often unexpected instrumentations and warm, distinctive vocals are the product of a lifetime of diverse musical experience. Composing and arranging since he was a young child, he thinks and feels in melodies and expresses his full self with abandon. The result is expertly mixed and mastered music that blurs genre lines and grooves like a live performance.
His first EP, 2016âs instrumental Perspective, is a delicious display of his artistry as a jazz saxophonist. Hansen is connected with his instrument in such a way that the soulful sound flowing forth seems at times to be more like a voice than a horn. A captivating chorus of organic instruments, synth soundscapes, and stripped-down vocals showcase the symphony that lives within him. Hansenâs more recent vocal-centric work is electric, energetic, and delightfully dynamic. Earnest storytelling pieces and experimental dance tracks alike feature his sundry instrumentation, deft production, and invariably smooth, expressive voice.
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