North Carolina born, New York based artist Kueen has returned with a new mixtape called Got Juice?. A multi-talented musician, entrepreneur and all-around hustler, Kueen has been pursuing music full-time for the better part of the decade, while she is also the CFO of innovative wellness company RAYFM. Receiving attention from some of hip-hop’s biggest names such as Pharaohe Monch, Rapsody, DJ Eclipse, as well as wide-ranging praise for eclectic projects such as Tales of Gotham, and more, Kueen has been steadily carving out a lane as an impactful, versatile voice in independent music.
Kueen’s latest project Got Juice? feels like the perfect soundtrack for a summer in New York, while maintaining a vibrant universality. Blending both influences from her North Carolina roots as well as NYC, is like a refreshing, organic dose of pure hip-hop, R&B, and soul that resonates for its sonic catchiness, spiritual depth, and dynamic versatility.
“Kleopatra’s Return” kicks off the project with a refined charisma interlaced into warm, jazz-laced instrumentation, sturdy grooves and sharply-crafted, intricate rhymes. “Give Thanks”, featuring Vibe Jonez, is a track that brings a feeling of clarity, with a spiritual, self-aware feel that transports the listener to another dimension. “D.H.A.D.” is breezy and heartfelt, featuring atmospheric guitars, rich backing vocals, and lively rhythms that complement Kueen’s smooth vocals cohesively. Tracks like “Pineapple Ginjah” and “Light my Spliff” contain a transcendent sort of beauty in their sound, adding to the overall uplifting feel of the project.
For nearly a decade, Kueen has been carving out a name for herself as a standout artist and songwriter, known for a rich, genre-blending sound that fuses hip-hop, jazz, soul, R&B, and beyond. Her work is marked by a raw authenticity- gritty and powerful, yet emotionally resonant- which has helped her build a strong and diverse following. Kueen proudly represents her Southern roots while channeling the dynamic spirit of NYC into her artistry. Beyond music, she also serves as the CFO of RAYFM Essentials, a lifestyle brand offering daily wellness products, including health juices, skincare, apparel, and more.
Listen to Kueen’s new project Got Juice? HERE on Bandcamp and support the artist directly.
Phoenix James is a rising force in the vibrant South Florida music scene, who has established herself as a daring, versatile singer-songwriter and producer across a vibrant discography. Soulful and genre-bending- her sound and songwriting emanates focus and intentionality while remaining expressively heartfelt. Phoenix’s versatile approach to music makes it difficult to place her work in one box, with multi-faceted releases that stay committed to remaining authentic. Her discography demonstrates range, with radiant projects like 2022’s New Stages EP presenting a refreshing, atmospheric take on alternative R&B, while her most recent solo release “Digital”‘s sleek, left-field electronic influences pushes towards the future. We sat down with Phoenix to discuss her beginnings, songwriting process, her new song “Digital” and more.
Roundhouse Music: What were some of your earliest inspirations to start creating music?
Phoenix: I think hip hop was definitely my first love. My Dad would put on MTV and I became obsessed with Missy Elliot, and when my dad explained that she was a producer, and what a producer was, I wanted to do exactly that. On the songwriting end, listening to the channel orange album was life-changing for me. The album felt like literature, and it made me dive into songwriting.
Roundhouse Music:What was it like for you growing up in Miami as far as being immersed in its music and artistic scene?
Phoenix: I literally would not have wanted to grow up anywhere else. Musically I learned so much from the mix of different cultures! The “Limbs” chord progression is derivative of a salsa progression. I grew up playing in different bands at house shows and student organized shows before dropping any music of my own. Miami and South Florida are filled with extremely talented musicians.
Roundhouse Music:What was your process like creating your latest song “Digital”?
Phoenix: “Digital” was really just a songwriting/beat making exercise. I was trying to get out of the slow song headspace. I like to practice songwriting by giving myself a prompt, and the prompt was “write about people who care more about the portrayal of their relationships on social media than the actual relationships”. I wasn’t going to release it, but I played it for a couple of people and they really liked it, so I decided to release it. It’s fun haha
Roundhouse Music: What inspired the electronic-infused sound on “Digital”?
Phoenix: I don’t think anything really inspired it directly, Ive just been making a lot of stripped down music, so I wanted to have fun!
Roundhouse Music:What’s your songwriting process like?
Phoenix: The answer to this question is constantly changing haha. My songwriting process always depends on what I’m doing, so it’s never a set thing. Sometimes a poem I write turns into lyrics (“Limbs”), sometimes I fully finish a beat and then I write ( I did that on “Digital”), sometimes I am writing lyrics in my head and producing at the same time (it’s weird) and sometimes Abner Dennis has me just start free-styling on the mic and we go bar by bar (“Peace” & “Contact High”), sometimes it’s Abner still working on the beat and I’m writing. It’s never the same.
Roundhouse Music: I know you recently performed at SOB’s in New York, what was your experience like performing there?
Phoenix: SOBs was so cool. Just seeing the list of legendary artists that had been on that same stage, and talking to the engineer about who his favorite performers were. The crowd was a little rude though, a bunch of NYU kids talking through all of the performances, but it’s all good haha. I’m big on concert etiquette.
Roundhouse Music: Would you consider yourself a spiritual person? I think your music has a spiritual feel. If so, how does it contribute to your creativity and artistry?
Phoenix: I definitely am spiritual, I think every musician is whether they think it or not. A spiritual feel? I don’t think anyone’s ever told me that haha, that’s cool, thank you. I think for me, it’s all about digging as deep as possible to connect to myself. Getting into the flow state and just word/melody vomitting everything out. I try to make sure everything comes from a place of presence and intention.
Roundhouse Music: Do you have a favorite experience collaborating with another artist?
Phoenix: I don’t think I’m allowed to talk about my favorite collaboration just yet, but I love working with artists that are free in the way they express themselves, and are down to try anything. Another favorite would definitely be working with Frank Sativa though, he’s a genuine person and super talented. We had fun in the studio.
Roundhouse Music: Do you have a favorite song that you’ve created and what makes it hold a special place for you?
Phoenix: I have an unreleased song that was just an insane experience to make. I took a substance with my friends in LA and we stayed up until the sun rose working on the song. The song is unlike anything we’ve ever made. When I play it for people they are kinda just like “woah” which I love haha.
Roundhouse Music: What’s on the horizon for you in music?
Phoenix: An ALBUM is on the horizon, I’m not gonna say too much right now, but I am sharpening my sword. Definitely excited for what’s to come.
Pat Clifton and The Nolias– an electrifying alternative band, have once again pushed the boundaries of their genre with their latest release, “Blood Moon.” This track is an intoxicating journey into the depths of temptation and desire, painted with a dark, seductive allure that leaves an indelible mark on your soul.
Featuring a sultry bass-line, raw guitars that unleash passion, and tantalizing drums that set the rhythm of your heartbeat, “Blood Moon” is a mesmerizing musical experience. The sultry vocals of Magnolia Pearson and Pat Clifton entwine in a passionate dance that captures the raw and untamed nature of desire. With their innovative approach to songwriting and production, Pat Clifton and The Nolias continue to captivate audiences, solidifying their position as one of this generation’s most exciting and influential bands. “Blood Moon” is the epitome of their creative energy, a testament to their fearless exploration of irresistible attractions that resonate with listeners on a profound level.
LOS KEMET‘s track “Barter 7 (Dig Dat)” stands as one of the more potent songs from this fall. Sonically, “Barter 7 (Dig Dat)”- produced by @guttylim0 & Zach Neiss– uses warm grooves and immersive keys to conjure a feeling of assurance and confidence, laden with crisp percussion that locks in a hypnotic rhythm. LOS sounds light on his feet on the microphone, weaving together dynamic lines with ease and never falling into a predictable rhyme pattern. Even throwing in subtle yet memorable melodic flourishes, LOS demonstrates his diverse skillset as an emcee and vocalist with “Barter 7 (Dig Dat)”. Watch the music video- directed by Thomas G– here.
Lord Sko- “James Worthy Goggles”
New York artist Lord Sko captivated us with his single “James Worthy Goggles”- a song off his engaging recently album United Palace. On “James Worthy Goggles”, Sko delivers silky flows atop smoky guitars, winding flutes, and warm bass that conjure a hazy, laid-back soundscape. He sounds comfortable in his lane and in the pocket- delivering detailed, observational verses atop the relaxed production. Dropping some quintessentially NY lines and shouting out Stack Bundles, he paints a vivid picture of his life in his city on “James Worthy Goggles”, drawing the listener into the track’s atmosphere in the process.
Blu, Real Bad Man- “Bad News”
West Coast legend Blu and prolific production outfit Real Bad Man‘s project Bad News made waves throughout the underground, and the title track proved to be a standout from the project, released with an engaging music video. “Bad News” finds Blu lacing the track with poetic, thought-provoking lines at a rapid pace atop dusky, subtly ominous strings and horns. As organic percussion and memorable bass build up a hypnotic groove, he launches into a verbal assault that keeps the listener on their toes with each line. The new visual, features crisp shots and an attention-grabbing performance from Blu, capturing the track’s vigorous energy. Watch the music video here.
Daniel Son, Wino Willy- “Frog Legs”
Toronto emcee Daniel Son and New Jersey producer Wino Willy‘s song “Frog Legs” caught our attention in September for its warm, vibrant sonics and powerful vocals. This eclectic joint from the two prolific artists contains an undercurrent of powerful energy- expressed through Son’s elaborate flows and Willy’s atmospheric, cathartic production style.
Nebula.- “Jive” (prod. JUNE!)
Louisiana artist Nebula.‘s frigid song “Jive”, produced by JUNE!, remains as one of our favorite songs from this autumn. “Jive” is a claustrophobic head-trip of a track that is unafraid to experiment and dabble in psychedelica, making for a captivating listen. Nebula.’s vocal tone suits the ominous edge of the production, while he keeps his flows dynamic in a manner that entices the listener and has them guessing.
Chelsea Reject- “I Just Wanted 2 Yell LOL”
Brooklyn artist Chelsea Reject demonstrates her versatility with the punk-infused rhythms of “I Just Wanted 2 Yell LOL”. Further proving that her artistry cannot be placed in a box, Reject draws from her roots in hip-hop with a raw, lyrically-focused vocal performance while also injecting hearty doses of punk in the track’s infectious bass-line and raucous delivery. An expressive, genre-bending offering from the Brooklyn standout, “I Just Wanted 2 Yell LOL” conveys a carefree creativity that is simply refreshing.
Voidness, HLP- “Toquinho”
A song from New York artist Voidness’ recent project It’s Windy Again This Morning/The Short End, “Toquinho” is nostalgic and fresh, making it a perfect soundtrack for the autumn months. His flows are poignant and focused, with a laid-back delivery that injects just enough presence and energy to keep it engagingly dynamic. The breezy production from HLP is a gift to the ears, with drifting Spanish guitars floating in a freeform manner atop organic percussion.
Lo Artiz- “la bruja”
Miami-born, LA-based artist Lo Artiz‘s song “la bruja”- from her recent album LOVE LACED- shows layers of depth in its songwriting and lyricism, taking on a mystical tone that captivates from the get-go. Backed by a tapestry of watery, expansive keys, starry synths, and rich bass, Artiz shines with sleek, emotive vocals laced with dynamic melodies. With an undertone of catharsis, “la bruja” makes for a poignant song with themes of women accessing and wielding deeper powers- providing a fierce roar within the patriarchy of the music industry.
Michael Kirby – the New York City-based music artist hailing from South Windsor, CT – continues to captivate audiences with his latest track, “The Real Thing”, featuring Bloodbathblair. Drawing inspiration from the dating landscape of NYC, Kirby crafted a melodic narrative that explores the rare occurrence of a first date going exceptionally well.
Recorded in the heart of Brooklyn at a friend’s studio in July, the song is a testament to Kirby’s ability to weave personal experiences into his music. Warm, vivid guitars and laid-back, organic percussion give “The Real Thing” a potent groove, setting an apt foundation for Kirby’s soulful, dynamic vocals. He delivers soaring vocal melodies that cohesive merge with the balmy instrumentation, making “The Real Thing” a memorable, vibrant listen.
With a distinctive voice that sets him apart in the industry, Kirby has been making waves since his 2018 debut album, “Spying On Heaven,” where he showcased not only his musical prowess but also his philanthropic spirit by donating 100% of the proceeds to a food bank in NYC. His sophomore effort, “The Lion Inside You,” further solidified his place in the music scene. In 2023, Kirby continues to shine with a series of singles, including “Fool Me Once,” “Might Be The Night,” and “Explor(h)er.” His music, featured on popular Spotify playlists like “Rap Royalty,” “Lazy Afternoons,” and “Sound of Relaxation,” reflects his prolific nature and enduring appeal. Michael Kirby’s “The Real Thing” is a testament to his storytelling ability and the unique charm that defines his musical journey.
ArmstrongWW has dropped off a fresh single, titled “Usually”. ArmstrongWW, born Armstrong Tanyi Orock, is a multi-genre musician born in Cameroon, and based in Houston, Texas. Starting his songwriting journey at the young age of 6, Armstrong has built a name for himself by creating music that resonates with honesty, demonstrated through potent projects like January 2023’s Recovery. His latest song, “Usually” contains a balmy breeziness and versatile vocal lines that keep the listener engaged throughout.
Instrumentally, “Usually” conjures a warm soundscape with a subtle undercurrent of buoyant energy. Swelling, lo-fi synths, punchy percussion, and infectious bass create a colorful backdrop for Armstrong’s emotive, punctuated flows, as he delivers dynamic verses that build into a memorable melodic hook.
Take a listen to ArmstrongWW’s latest “Usually” here now.
Hari, the talented soulful musician hailing from just outside of London, is making waves in the R&B scene with her latest release- “More Than a Woman.” This heartfelt track takes listeners on an emotional journey through the aftermath of heartbreak, with Hari’s delicate R&B vocals and beautiful guitar work capturing the pain and growth that follows a breakup.
Presenting a knack for raw emotion and soulful storytelling, Hari’s songwriting abilities shine through, providing an international sound that resonates deeply with her audience. “More Than a Woman” is just a taste of what’s to come from Hari, as it marks the second single from her eagerly anticipated EP, ‘Mixed Reviews on Love.’ With influences like ‘The Diary of Alicia Keys,’ her music promises to paint vivid poetic pictures of love’s complexities, making her a must-listen for R&B enthusiasts.
Lola Coker, a rising star in music’s underground, is making a profound mark with her latest single, “Unreliable.” This track is an exquisitely written and hauntingly moody composition that draws inspiration from Neo Soul, Contemporary R&B, and Alternative R&B. “Unreliable” delves into themes of introspection, regret, and the complexities of human connection, weaving a tapestry of emotions that deeply resonate with listeners. Lola’s velvety voice and evocative lyrics in this song are bound to leave a lasting impression, showcasing her exceptional talent for creating music that transcends genres and encapsulates the essence of contemporary soul. With its captivating melodies and poignant storytelling, “Unreliable” is a testament to Lola Coker’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of musical expression and solidifying her position in the modern music industry. A highly engaging release and we look forward to hearing more projects from this upcoming artist!
Vancouver-Based artist, Mauvey, makes his debut at Roundhouse Music with his latest evocative single, “The King.” The prolific artist displays an outstanding level of artistry as he works through a captivating array of sonics – incorporating influences deriving from Alternative R&B/Soul, Hip Hop, and 80’s Inspired music. The track displays a unique set of production techniques in its composition – punchy drums, ethereal synths, and a slight warmth on the mix – acting as a perfect backdrop for Mauvey’s prominent vocals. Mauvey depicts an engaging yet memorable chorus atop the impressive production through creative lyricism and proficiency. Energetic and Vibrant, this innovative track creates a pleasant ambiance that inherently provokes listeners to play the song on repeat.
The release of “The King” clearly exhibits Mauvey’s artistic potential – placing him as one of Vancouver’s most eminent musicians in 2022.
Jacksonville-based artist Rokko Ca$h debuts at Roundhouse Music with his 2021 release, “Selfish.” The Florida musician delivers this uplifting Alternative R&B track that evokes the feeling of fulfillment on a warm summer day. Shown through a series of impressively double-timed vocal patterns atop a bright & cheery production – Rokko Ca$h exhibits a pristine display of artistry & proficiency. The self-taught artist composed this innovative array of sonics which has allowed him to develop an eclectic sound & style – perfect for blasting through the streets of Jacksonville. “Selfish” is indeed a refreshing listen, and we look forward to hearing more from the artist here at Roundhouse Music.
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