We all have those artists and songs we hear that strike the right chord and make us fall in love at first listen. They’re the reason we refresh social media pages, tour schedules and Spotify profiles — because we can’t miss a single release. This is Love at First Listen — a new series introducing you to the emerging, and established, artists with new music guaranteed to upgrade your playlist.
Stop what you’re doing and get ready for one last summer dance party. After a half-year hiatus, Michelle Treacy, the Canadian singer-songwriter who was launched to stardom on CTV’s The Launch, is rocking her way back onto our playlists with her aptly titled EP ‘High Heels in the Moshpit.’ It’s groovy, retro, and everything you could wish for in your next favourite record.
For this edition of Love at First Listen, go behind the scenes of Michelle’s experience releasing the EP as we chat about wacky musical universes, “Aha!” moments, and which artists’ concerts are worthy of wearing high heels in the moshpit.
How does it feel to have ‘High Heels in the Moshpit’ out in the world for everyone to hear (and play on repeat)?
This is the first time I’ve felt happy and sad about putting music out into the world. This is my baby and the first time I am in the exact place I want to be. I love this music and I love the person I have become. This is only just the beginning of this wacky universe. Get ready for more!
We last spoke just under a year ago. How has your sound and approach to music changed since then?
When we last spoke, I decided 2020 would be my year to feel sad and that 2021 would be the comeback year. I have spent my time during quarantine experimenting, crying, getting therapy, eating my feelings, and crying some more… until I finally had an “Aha!” moment where I knew exactly what I needed to do next. I just needed to be fully comfortable as myself and create music that had as big of a personality as I do — and here we are. I have a team of people around me who have believed in me even when I couldn’t see it for myself. I couldn’t have gotten here without them.
You wrote on Instagram that you’ve “never felt so passionate about a project before.” Why do you think that is? Were you able to touch on any subjects you’ve never written about before?
To be honest, my producer had been begging me to dive into this sound for five years. For the first time ever, I truly felt like myself while recording. I didn’t judge myself. I wrote what felt right. There was no agenda other than to have fun. The persona is me, as raw and fun as can be. The main theme is losing inhibitions and resisting the urge to self censor. If I thought a lyric would elicit the reaction “wait…did she really say that?” then we left it in!
You spent release night on a Zoom call with your fans. Why was it important to you to share that special moment with them?
My fans mean everything to me. They’re the reason for everything, which is why celebrating with my biggest supporters is the only way to release a record, even if it means doing it on Zoom. I am forever grateful to have such amazing and unconditional support.
Now that concerts are slowly coming back, who is the first person you hope to see live wearing your high heels in the moshpit?
I got to see the Arkells live and I CRIED. Being back at a show felt so good. The next concert I’m going to is Finneas and I can’t wait.
We all have those artists and songs we hear that strike the right chord and make us fall in love at first listen. They’re the reason we refresh social media pages, tour schedules (virtually, for now) and Spotify profiles — because we can’t miss a single release.
This is Love at First Listen — a new series introducing you to the emerging, and established, artists with new music guaranteed to upgrade your playlist.
Welcome to the world of QUIETLOVE, a new project fronted by Canadian singer-songwriter Brendan DiStefano. You may recognize Brendan from his previous solo releases or as the lead singer of indie-pop trio Navigate the Sky. After four years of behind-the-scenes planning, QUIETLOVE represents a name and identity that he says “exactly conveys the right tone” for the alt-pop music he’s been writing.
Get ready to fall in love at first listen with “The Dream,” QUIETLOVE’s catchy, self written and produced debut single about battling through self-doubt and remembering why you started your journey. Take it from me that this is just the beginning of a very exciting journey ahead for QUIETLOVE!
While you play “The Dream” on repeat, check out my new interview with QUIETLOVE below for the inside scoop on defining ‘the dream,’ the songs he’s loved at first listen, and what’s next.
“The Dream” is your first single as QUIETLOVE. What does this song mean to you, and why did you think it was the perfect song to introduce your new project?
“The Dream” is a very honest song for me. It’s about chasing your dreams and the harsh realities that sometimes come along with doing so. I felt the message was relatable to my peers, and I knew it had to be the first single to establish who I am. I hope someone hears it and it helps them through their own battles.
Where were you the first time you heard the final track and what was your reaction?
I’ll never forget. I was on the TTC in Toronto and I received the first mix to my email from my mixing engineer, Jack. I remember riding around the city and listening for the first time with an ear-to-ear smile. It was definitely a memorable moment for me.
Inquiring minds want to know: What exactly is “the dream”?
I honestly think it varies for everyone. Whatever you define as success to yourself, is the truth to you. To me, ‘the dream’ would be making music for the rest of my life and living comfortably doing so.
For fans who have followed you throughout the years, how would you describe your sonic evolution?
It’s tough to describe. I’d say the songs lyrically have gotten more and more personal, closer to the heart. Sonically, a year or two ago now, the band and I started producing ourselves, which I think really helped find an authentic sound.
How do you plan to continue, or even integrate your releases as QUIETLOVE with and/or alongside the work you’re doing with your band, Navigate the Sky?
I think it’s a fun way to keep the creative energy flowing, whether I’m writing as QUIETLOVE or with the boys. I really look up to bands like The Maine and Alexisonfire where they’ve managed to steadily release songs over multiple projects or side projects. As a listener or fan, you’ll always have new content to consume.
Music has been a close friend to so many of us over the past year. Can you share some of the artists or “quarantine anthems” that you simply had no choice but to love at first listen?
Oh, too many to count. I recently discovered a local Toronto-based artist, Verzache, who produces himself and is very DIY as well. Check out his song called “Think About It.” He’s definitely one to watch blow up over the next year or so — mark my words. Also, “Listerine” by Dayglow has been on repeat the last month or so.
What’s next for QUIETLOVE?
More everything. Now that my debut single is out, I feel like I’ve finally established who I am to the world. I’ve still got so much more to say. I’m looking forward to the future of QUIETLOVE. Keep your eyes peeled to my socials for more!
Every New Music Friday, I’m reminded of how much new music is out there — especially from artists I’ve yet to discover! Join me as I broaden my horizons and my music library with monthly playlists capturing new releases from every genre.
Step aside, sports fans: Us music aficionados have our own version of March Madness (and it’s arguably way more entertaining!). Thanks to the arrival of spring, this is the time of year when our favourite artists’ new releases become the soundtrack to warmer temperatures and beaming sunshine. I couldn’t ask for anything better!
Check out more than five (!) hours of the best new music you may have missed this March via the Spotify playlist below, then scroll down to hear a selection of tracks you’ll soon have on repeat. There are no excuses to have a boring playlist, especially at the start of a new season.
* Leave The Door Open by Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak as Silk Sonic *
What do you get when you bring together the impeccable vocal talents and smooth groove of R&B superstars Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak? Meet the new super-duo Silk Sonic. Bruno and Anderson kicked off March with “Leave the Door Open,” a repeat-worthy, retro-tinged jam and the first taste of their upcoming ‘An Evening with Silk Sonic’ album. Make no mistake — you need to “Leave the Door Open” on your playlist for this hit!
A bonus video for your viewing pleasure: Bruno and Anderson’s GRAMMYs performance — their only performance of “Leave the Door Open” to date — was beyond dreamy. Watch and you’ll understand why!
https://www.instagram.com/p/CMdCZ7sHK8f/
* Sacrifice by Bebe Rexha *
How far would you go for love? On her new single “Sacrifice,” Bebe Rexha makes it clear she’s looking for an all-in or nothing type of romance. “Say goodbye to every other girl in the night behind you / Now you’re mine / Tell me what you’re willin’ to sacrifice,” she sings. It’s an undeniable dance-pop bop and I can’t wait to hear what’s next in this new Bebe era.
I’m gonna give the gays everything they want on this one song.
If you’re a follower of this blog, you’ve seen me shout out Californian singer-songwriter Charlotte Lawrence countless times. She put out her first single in 2017, but it was 2018’s viral hits “Just The Same” and “Stole Your Car” that gave her global momentum. Charlotte continues to carve her own lane with her new statement-making sophomore EP, ‘Charlotte.’ My personal favourite track, “Cowboys,” describes the feeling of being lost and wondering where you stand with someone — and if you want to stand with them at all. Hear these songs and more performed live on Charlotte’s Moment House livestream shows April 15 and 16.
TICKETS ON SALE NOW💫for my livestream shows with @momenthouse on April 15th & 16th. cant wait for you to see what we’ve put together 🤍🥰🌈 meet n greet tix available too 😉 https://t.co/9fupVJ0vj1pic.twitter.com/Uc4G9yF6fe
* Peaches by Justin Bieber feat. Daniel Caesar and Giveon *
Every spring, there’s at least one early contender for the year’s song of the summer. “Peaches,” the latest single off Justin Bieber’s new album ‘Justice,’ is quickly checking all the boxes, featuring an irresistibly catchy chorus and guest verses from trending R&B artists Daniel Caesar (a fellow Canadian 🇨🇦) and Giveon. Another surefire sign of success? The #PeachesMakeupChallenge is quickly blowing up on TikTok and Instagram, courtesy of its creator Hailey Bieber.
* You All Over Me (From the Vault) by Taylor Swift feat. Maren Morris *
As the April 9 release of ‘Fearless (Taylor’s Version)’ quickly approaches, Taylor Swift has revisited “the vault” of her sophomore album to share a never-before-heard song. “You All Over Me,” a track that sounds equal parts new and nostalgic and is especially reminiscent of the fan-favourite ‘1989’ song “Clean,” was reimagined with background vocals from Tay’s friend and country chart-topper Maren Morris. Look forward to five more unreleased songs from the vault on the final 26-track album!
Whether it’s the Disney vault or the TS vault, you know it’s gonna be good.
My favorite thing that I don’t get to do very often is to slip into someone’s world and just harmonize. pic.twitter.com/B5qnOkhvNy
Demi Lovato has never been one to shy away from vulnerability and her new single “Dancing with the Devil” is no exception. The title track for Demi’s new YouTube Originals documentary, and the second track off her forthcoming album ‘Dancing with the Devil… The Art of Starting Over,’ chronicles the realities of a rollercoaster relapse — lying to yourself about your limits, giving in when you shouldn’t, and fighting for your life knowing this shouldn’t be the end. It’s gut-wrenching to hear, but Demi has said it was cathartic putting the experience into words. “I wrote it in November 2018 and I’ve just been waiting for the world to hear it,” she told Zane Lowe on his Apple Music show. Look out for the full album dropping April 2!
Album of the Month: Spaceman by Nick Jonas
Nick Jonas’ third solo album is a testament to both connection and isolation; songs like “Heights” and “If I Fall” chronicle the beautiful moments of starting a relationship and committing to something special, while “Spaceman” and “Don’t Give Up On Us” speak to lockdown and long-distance life (Nick’s wife Priyanka Chopra-Jonas has been working on various film projects overseas). The creative and clever song transitions are reason enough to listen to ‘Spaceman’ from start to finish, but I also had the chance to ask Nick about how this album can be best enjoyed during a recent Twitter Spaces interview. In short, grab a drink, get your headphones and “go on the journey.”
Must-listen songs: “Don’t Give Up On Us” (the most catchy opening track you’ve heard from a Jonas), “This Is Heaven” (a fan favourite that Nick debuted while doing double-duty as host and guest performer on SNL), “Nervous” (a solid closer about feeling forever giddy around your favourite person)
New Artist of the Month: PJ Harding
Critically-acclaimed Australian songwriter and producer PJ Harding can proudly call Noah Cyrus one of his biggest fans and, as of this year, a trusted creative partner. After meeting at a writing camp in Bali in 2018, the pair joined forces to write music for Noah’s 2020 EP ‘The End of Everything’ — but there was something even more special to be explored. PJ and Noah’s latest release, “You Belong to Somebody Else,” takes us one step (or song) closer to their forthcoming collaborative EP, ‘People Don’t Change.’
“The first day we started together … Noah said to me that day that we should start a band. I thought she was kidding, but two years and many songs later we’ve actually done just that!” PJ shared on Instagram.
“He’s the most talented dude I’ve ever partnered with,” Noah recently said of PJ following the release of their first joint single, “Dear August.” “I genuinely admire him as a writer, singer, musician, and artist. Writing songs before, I honestly felt a little lost. It felt special to go back to my roots and make something with guitar and piano like what my dad made me listen to as a kid.”
Though there is no release date set for the EP, PJ has shared there are at least four more songs to come. I’ll be looking out for them to share on future playlists!
Every New Music Friday, I’m reminded of how much new music is out there — especially from artists I’ve yet to discover! Join me as I broaden my horizons and my music library with monthly playlists capturing new releases from every genre.
February is the month of love… and there’s no denying that I’m in love with the fab new singles recently released by the likes of Jessie Ware, Martin Garrix and Tove Lo, Dua Lipa and Nick Jonas. Check out more than four hours of the best new music you might have missed on the Spotify playlist below, then scroll down to hear a selection of my most played faves.
* Remember Where You Are (Single Edit) by Jessie Ware *
Why release a music video when you can release a short film for your new single? The closing track off her career-changing album ‘What’s Your Pleasure?,’ Jessie Ware’s “Remember Where You Are” is a gorgeous tribute to finding comfort in the little things and hanging on to hope despite living in some of the most hopeless times. It’s a warm hug in the form of a song.
* Pressure by Martin Garrix feat. Tove Lo *
If clubs were open, this edgy new Martin Garrix x Tove Lo collaboration would be an absolute smash. You should know it by now, but wear your mask(s), wash your hands and social distance… PLEASE!!!
* Happy Hour by Felix Cartal feat. Kiiara *
Vancouver-born DJ/producer Felix Cartal recruited longtime fan and friend Kiiara for his latest star collab, a “melodramatic emo anthem” (Kiiara’s words!) about feeling a little (or a lot) out of control and treating every hour just like it’s happy hour. Honestly, we can toast to that—it’s been a hard year, but just know that we’ll all get through this. Think of the many actual Happy Hours we’ll soon be able to enjoy!
The newest addition to your ~thank u, next~ playlist, Dua Lipa’s latest single is full of clever references (“We not meant to be like sleeping and cocaine,” for one) all making it clear that the relationship is over, so it’s time to end things amicably. If not? Boy, bye!
* Caution by KAYTRANADA *
Haitian-Canadian DJ/producer KAYTRANADA surprise released an upbeat new single (“just a beat,” he humbly writes), and it’s our first sampling of fresh, original music since the star’s mega-successful 2019 sophomore LP ‘BUBBA.’ KAYTRANADA is heading into the month of March at an all-time career high—he’s up for Best New Artist at the GRAMMY Awards, airing Mar. 14, and I’m rooting for a local victory!
* Spaceman by Nick Jonas *
Everything we’ve experienced in the past year since the start of the pandemic has certainly felt otherworldly. Nick Jonas captures that sensation perfectly in his new solo single, “Spaceman,” the title track off his upcoming album due out Mar. 12. You can’t help but agree when Nick sings, “Mask off minute I get home / All safe now that I’m alone / Almost like a spaceman.” I definitely never thought of our reality that way! 👨🚀
P.S. If you’re a fellow Jonas Brothers superfan, don’t fret — the guys have reassured us they “all have a ton of exciting stuff coming (together and apart 😉).” Well, boys, don’t hold back… tell us everything!
* Last Love by Sinéad Harnett *
I shouted out Sinéad Harnett as an Artist to Watch in 2021 back in January around the time she was finishing work on her eagerly-awaited sophomore album. I’m happy to report back that we officially have a date for when we can expect so many new jams! ‘Ready is Always Too Late’ is set to drop May 21, and we have our first taste of the new record now thanks to lead single “Last Love.” In her own words, “Last Love” is about the “1 step forward, 2 steps back” emotional rollercoaster of feeling single and liberated yet still being hung up on the memory of your ex. We’ve all been there (even if you didn’t actually date them!).
Madison Beer’s debut album has been years in the making. Her first and only EP, ‘As She Pleases,’ dropped in 2018, following her debut single in 2013. But ‘Life Support,’ the end result of that extended tease, is a meticulously well-crafted and generous 17-track pop album showcasing the L.A-based artist’s confidence in her sound and story. Highlights include “Effortlessly,” which highlights Madison’s breathy, and well, effortless, vocals, as well as hit single “BOYSHIT.”
New Artist of the Month: Sam Fischer
Days before his new collaboration with Demi Lovato was announced, Australian artist Sam Fischer was still relatively unknown to the mainstream masses. His 2019 single “This City” is what initially catapulted him to TikTok fame (plus remixes with Nico Santos, Anne-Marie and Kane Brown, among others), and landed the singer, who says at the time he felt “defeated” by L.A., a sweet contract with RCA Records. Defeated no more!
Sam and Demi have since joined forces to take Sam’s sound and their new single “What Other People Say” to the next level, most recently appearing together on The Ellen Show. The beautifully-written song describes the downfalls of losing yourself due to societal pressures and the desire to “fit in” and “be liked.” Sam puts it beautifully in this Genius annotation:
if I could talk to kid Sam Fischer i’d tell him to keep being his beautiful, flamboyant, talented, confident self and not listen when he was shamed and bullied for just being himself. I felt like it was my fault that I was the way I was, like the way I was living wasn’t right and I was a really angry and sad kid behind closed doors. i’m in therapy now and i’m so grateful for that because i’m able to unravel so much of the pain and embarrassment I felt for just being myself. working on my happiness and loving myself every day now!
Sam is evidently here to stay and I can’t wait to hear what’s next!
Every New Music Friday, I’m reminded of how much new music is out there — especially from artists I’ve yet to discover! Join me as I broaden my horizons and my music library with monthly playlists capturing new releases from every genre.
We’re starting off the new year right with new releases from the likes of Justin Bieber, ZAYN, Ariana Grande, Vance Joy and JoJo. Check out more than four hours of the best new music you may have missed from January in the Spotify playlist below, then scroll down to listen to a few highlights.
* Anyone by Justin Bieber *
Justin Bieber gave his fans a sweet holiday treat dropping a new single, “Anyone,” on Jan. 1. What a way to ring in the New Year!
Wondering what’s ahead for JB in 2021? This is Justin’s fourth song release since last year’s uber-successful ‘Changes’ album and it’s already confirmed these new tracks are part of the path to JB6. ‘Changes’ was released on Valentine’s Day 2020 and, looking at the calendar, it definitely seems like we may need to keep our eyes peeled to Justin’s socials throughout February. 👀
* Vibez by ZAYN *
ZAYN released his long-awaited new album ‘Nobody Is Listening’ this month and its lead single “Vibez” is 100% the vibe. If you’re just checking out the album, the album’s two collaborations, “When Love’s Around” featuring Syd and “Windowsill” featuring Devlin, are real standouts. That said, it’s truly an album to be enjoyed and experienced from start to finish, so go listen and thank me later. 😊
* Talk You Down by Charlotte Lawrence *
If there’s anything more impressive than Charlotte Lawrence’s never-ending string of infectious singles (“Slow Motion” was everything), it’s her beautifully choreographed music videos — and her latest for “Talk You Down” was filmed after just one rehearsal.
Like this song? You won’t have to wait much longer for more. ‘Charlotte’ the EP is set for release March 5.
* Lento (Brabo Remix) by Lauren Jauregui feat. Pabllo Vittar *
If you thought you loved former Fifth Harmony member Lauren Jauregui’s Latin bop “Lento,” wait until you hear this new remix with Brazilian star Pabllo Vittar. It’s still a smoking hot dance moment but with new flavour for the new year. Yes, yes, yes. 🔥
* New Love by Silk City feat. Ellie Goulding *
Megastar producers Diplo and Mark Ronson have *finally* reunited to reignite the flame on their joint project Silk City and I guarantee you will have new love for the new track. As the follow-up single to 2018’s smash hit “Electricity” with Dua Lipa, “New Love” featuring Ellie Goulding is the must-have song on your playlist if you love fun, shimmery pop tunes, a catchy chorus, and a beat that makes you want to dance around your kitchen like no one’s watching (guilty!).
Speaking of comebacks, I’m super excited to see what other musicians will make a big return to the charts in 2021. Fingers crossed Adele and Lorde are on that list. 😉
* Don’t Judge Me by FKA twigs, Headie One and Fred again.. *
FKA twigs’ new single is a beautiful song with a powerful reflection on our very politically-charged 2020. British rapper Headie One has several particularly impactful lines in his verse: “There’s been a million speeches / No justice, no peace, ’cause we in pieces / Officer, am I allowed to breathe here?” (The latter is unfortunately still too common a question.)
* Could This Be Love by Elliphant *
On her new single “Could This Be Love,” Swedish alt-pop singer Elliphant questions a dying love, navigating an internal debate on whether tension, sadness and hours of watching “every YouTube clip I find on cute puppies” are normal in a real romance. While I don’t have the answer for Elliphant, there’s certainly no questioning my love for this song. (See what I did there?)
Album of the Month: #7DJ (7 Días En Jamaica) by Maluma
When it’s cold and dark outside, I love listening to upbeat, tropical music to bring back memories of summer and warmth. Colombian artist Maluma must agree because his new album (and first release of 2021) is inspired by a week-long trip to Jamaica pre-pandemic. This is the perfect easy, cohesive listen to satisfy your dancehall/reggaeton-pop craving!
New Artist of the Month: Arlo Parks
British retro-soul artist Arlo Parks built up a following in 2020 thanks to incredible singles like “Eugene” and “Tangerine,” a collaboration with Glass Animals. But it was ultimately Arlo’s gentle yet intriguing voice combined with introspective, diaristic lyrics that earned her critical acclaim and several “one to watch” honours.
Arlo’s newly-released debut album ‘Collapsed In Sunbeams’ supersedes the hype, presenting an artist who, at age 20, is just starting to face the rollercoaster of life but remains confident in herself, her sound and her intentions. It’s a beautiful thing to hear and a light in these dark times. I’m already looking forward to more!
