PRESS RELEASES

  • October 31, 2025 (Los Angeles, CA) — Mexican indie artist MAUMAUMAU returns with “PREY,” a visceral single fueled with a late-night edge. The song is accompanied by a music video directed by Abi Anne Oliver. Listen on all platforms [here] and watch the visual [here].

    A Halloween release, “PREY” pivots into darker territory. The song navigates male predatory behavior and the toxic culture around boundaries and dating—where intimacy, power dynamics, and vulnerability collide in dark, strobe-lit rooms. Informed by personal stories shared by women in Mau’s life, the song frames desire with both lure and warning.

    On “PREY,” Mau shares:

    “‘Prey’ is intended to feel like a trip. It has so many changes of mood and atmosphere. It was a fun challenge to write this, and an even bigger challenge to produce (thanks, Fernando - you crushed it). This song is a bit of an art piece. One for me, honestly. I wanted to be vulnerable and share on a topic that is hard to discuss but necessary, especially as a man. PREY is intended to start conversations, even if it’s just about the musicality. So I recommend you put on some headphones or get some nice speakers and listen actively. Enjoy.”

    His fourth release of the year, “PREY,” follows “Macho Macho” (May 2), which featured on Spotify’s Fresh Finds Latin playlist, received a COLORSxSTUDIOS’ Song of the Day nod upon release, and has become Mau’s fastest single to surpass 100,000 streams.

    The year kicked off with “Boss Level,” (Stream) a song that likens modern success in a crumbling world to battling the final boss in a video game. In May, to celebrate the fourth anniversary of his debut EP, Meow Meow Meow, Mau also released a campy vampire music video for the project’s standout track, “Happy.” Watch here.

    Constantly creating, Mau followed his EP with his debut album, MAUCH (2024), led by fan favorites, “With You,” the explosive “OMGi pt. 2” (featured on New Music Friday), and the heartfelt “Warm My Bones” (featured on Novedades Indie). Since then, MAUCH and Mau’s unique artistry have continued to expand his audience, fueling steady growth on TikTok, where they now exceed 22,000 followers.

    “PREY” is written by MAUMAUMAU, produced/mixed by Fernando Familiar and Reed Izumi (Fr8 Train Music), and mastered by Jack Kennedy. Stream it now and follow MAUMAUMAU for more.

    ##

     

    Connect with MAUMAUMAU

    TikTok (22k+) • Instagram (4k+) • Spotify (16k+) • Apple Music • YouTube (3.5k+)

  • → Available now on YouTube: Watch ←

    Headlining in Brooklyn, NY on September 27th

    August 7, 2025 (Washington, DC) — Rising indie-pop singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, producer, and artist Jeff Draco has unveiled Attitude + More (Live), an in-studio session of his praised new EP, Attitude. The performance, recorded at Millie’s in Washington, D.C., is now available on YouTube. Watch the video, directed and edited by Gabriel Hoff, in full here. Draco will bring the project to Brooklyn with a headline show at Sleepwalk on September 27, joined by Grant Claytor. Tickets available here.

    Written, produced, and recorded by Draco, Attitude marks the Washington, DC-based artist’s first collaboration with GRAMMY-winning sound engineer Patrick Kehrier, who mixed and mastered the project. It’s Draco’s first project since 2022’s Freezing in Hollywood, which featured fan favorites like “Desiderium” and “Feel So Gold.”

    Attitude also marks a milestone as Draco’s first project available on vinyl. A limited batch, which includes a poster insert, is available for pre-order on Bandcamp and JeffDraco.com.

    The release follows the 2023 momentum that led The Washington City Paper to call Jeff Draco “one of D.C.'s most popular indie-pop artists,” and The Luna Collective to add he’s “on track to become the next household name.” Attitude is available for digital purchase and streaming on all major platforms. Listen, share, and buy here.

    Upcoming Show

    September 27 — Brooklyn, NY — Sleepwalk (with Grant Claytor)

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  • May 2, 2025 (Los Angeles, CA) — A year after his ambitious debut album MAUCH, genre-defying artist MAUMAUMAU unveils “MACHO MACHO”—a striking new single that strips away the myths of machismo and reframes masculinity through a lens of empathy, tenderness, and generational healing. Listen to the new single here.

    Written as a letter of admiration to his father, “MACHO MACHO” explores the space between cultural inheritance and emotional truth while venturing to reimagine what manhood can look like when vulnerability is no longer treated as weakness but as proof of strength. Through warm, Latin indie pop production and tasteful bilingual lyricism, MAUMAUMAU questions outdated ideals while redefining them. It offers a vision of masculinity grounded in softness, joy, and self-acceptance.

    Reflecting on the new song, Mau shares: “‘MACHO MACHO’ is a tribute to my dad. Our relationship wasn’t always easy. I’ve always been emotionally sensitive and empathetic—traits that didn’t quite fit within the expectations shaped by the machismo culture so common across the Americas. Because of that, we often misunderstood each other. But over time, I’ve seen my dad try. I’ve watched him grow, open up, and take real steps toward becoming more emotionally aware. That effort means everything to me. This song is a tribute to that growth—and a reminder that he’s not alone in it. I hope Macho Macho resonates with other families navigating similar journeys.”

    Some of the first tracks to emerge following the success of his debut album, MAUCH, and the viral growth of his Midnight Lullabies with MAUMAUMAU TikTok series, this new single showcases an artist evolving in real time. “MACHO MACHO” is both a personal reckoning and a cultural offering—proof that music can still shift the conversation when delivered with honesty and care.

    Teasing MAUCH for a year before its release, the album was introduced by the folk acoustic “With You,” Mau’s first single to receive Spotify editorial support. Subsequent single “OMGi pt. 2” secured a placement on New Music Friday, and “Warm My Bones” found a cozy home on Novedades Indie. Finally landing in March 2024, MAUCH’s arrival coincides with the rising popularity of Jimenez's weekly TikTok Live series, "Late Night Lullabies with MAUMAUMAU," which continues to gain momentum and has recently helped him surpass 10,000 followers on the platform.

    Jimenez first introduced the world to the MAUMAUMAU project with the critically celebrated EP, Meow Meow Meow, which premiered on Atwood Magazine in 2021. The project included notable tracks like "Happy" and "Curveball Whip Cream," which set the stage for his debut album. MAUCH builds on this foundation, presenting a more mature and nuanced exploration of his musical vision.

    “Macho Macho” was produced by Reed Izumi (Fr8 Train Music), mixed by Fernando Familiar Sanchez, and mastered by Jack Kennedy. The song is available on all streaming platforms on Friday, May 2nd. Stream here.

  • January 23, 2025 (Los Angeles, CA)—Emerging artist MAUMAUMAU returns with the release of his striking new single, "Boss Level." Co-produced with Reed Izumi (Fr8 Train Music), the song delivers a hard-hitting commentary on modern chaos and resilience. The song arrives with a self-directed and self-filmed vertical visual that follows Mau's travels in Europe. Listen and watch here.

    "Boss Level" captures the dissonance of navigating a world dominated by ambition, inequity, and societal pressures. From its razor-sharp opening lines, "Don’t let me forget my place / I wouldn’t wanna catch ambitions or get paid," to the explosive hook, the song draws listeners into a visceral video game-inspired metaphor for life’s relentless challenges.

    Reflecting on the inspiration behind the track, MAUMAUMAU shares:

    "I’ve been anxious about the world and where it’s heading. It’s hard not to be. I also am a big fan of video games and find a lot of solace in the online space. ‘Boss Level’ was written to encourage anyone who feels the insanity of the socio-political climate to be brave and kind and hold fast to get through this. We deserve better, and for that, we must be better. I wish this song gives you hope and maybe gets you dancing and vibing. I made it with a lot of love for you… and for me.”

    With its punchy beats and sardonic edge, "Boss Level" blends playful wordplay ("Pew pew bang bang till we fug it up") with anthemic calls to action. MAUMAUMAU questions systemic inequality ("Cha ching cha ching, watch the gap grow") and satirizes hollow promises ("now we’re dancing ‘round in all the snake oil"), underscoring the struggles of staying grounded in a chaotic, ever-connected world.

    The song’s relentless energy and thought-provoking lyrics are testaments to MAUMAUMAU’s signature ability to blend biting commentary with a rebellious, immersive, and impossible-to-ignore sound.

    "Boss Level" follows the success of MAUMAUMAU’s debut album MAUCH (March 2024), a concept album that spans every stage and emotion that follows a breakup. MAUCH gained widespread attention for its sharp lyricism and immersive storytelling, with standout tracks like "God Bless The Irony" and "Warm My Bones" receiving support from Spotify editorials and critical acclaim. Paired with his viral Midnight Lullabies with MAUMAUMAU TikTok series, which helped him surpass 10,000 followers in under a year, MAUCH solidified MAUMAUMAU as a rising voice in indie music. With "Boss Level," MAUMAUMAU continues to build momentum, proving his ability to craft compelling music that resonates with listeners and pushes boundaries.

    "Boss Level" is now available on all streaming platforms–listen here.

  • September 25, 2024 (Los Angeles, CA)—Today, Mexican artist MAUMAUMAU unveils the music video for “God Bless The Irony,” directed by Daniel Cloud Campos (Rich Brian, Zedd & Hayley Williams, Jackson Wang, Paramore). A clever exploration of the transactional complexities of dating apps, the music video sees Mau humorously swiping with hope, despair, and a little chaos in between. Watch the music video on MAUMAUMAU’s official Vevo channel and all other streaming platforms here.

    Capturing the challenges of modern romance over mind-melting indie rock, “God Bless The Irony” embodies the experience of faceplanting back into the dating pool and encapsulates the very nature of MAUMAUMAU’s debut album, MAUCH, a concept album that spans every stage and emotion that follows a breakup. Conceptualized by Mau and Cloud, this is the second video from the MAUCH era and follows the December release of the “Oblivious” visual featuring Jayne Do, directed by Nathan Tecson. Watch “Oblivious” here. 

    On the visual and working with Cloud, MAUMAUMAU shares:

    “The GBTI video is unhinged, and I think it’s a wonderful representation of the frustrations I felt when exploring single life in Los Angeles. I hope you laugh out loud and enjoy the rollercoaster this video provides. I’m also blown away by what friends can accomplish. I have always dreamed of working with Cloud, as I have always admired his work. He’s a genius. This video, coming together through the out-of-this-world imagination we share, exemplifies what a true work of art between friends can accomplish. We hope it makes you laugh and maybe even feel seen.”

    Director Daniel Cloud Campos added:

    “I’m sure this video may come off a bit violent to some, but it’s a shared sense of humor Mau and I have always had. I’m glad it finally found its way into something captured through both our passions of storytelling and music. I think it represents what this song is talking about. Online dating is weird. I did it for a whole week! Made me wanna beat myself up! So that’s what I had Mau do. We hope you enjoy.”

    Teasing MAUCH for a year before its release, the album was introduced by the folk acoustic “With You,” Mau’s first single to receive Spotify editorial support. Subsequent single “OMGi pt. 2” secured a placement on New Music Friday, and “Warm My Bones” found a cozy home on Novedades Indie. Finally landing in March 2024, MAUCH’s arrival coincides with the rising popularity of Jimenez's weekly TikTok Live series, "Late Night Lullabies with MAUMAUMAU," which continues to gain momentum and has recently helped him surpass 10,000 followers on the platform.

    Jimenez first introduced the world to the MAUMAUMAU project with the critically celebrated EP, Meow Meow Meow, which premiered on Atwood Magazine in 2021. The project included notable tracks like "Happy" and "Curveball Whip Cream," which set the stage for his debut album. MAUCH builds on this foundation, presenting a more mature and nuanced exploration of his musical vision.

    "God Bless The Irony" and MAUCH are available now on all major streaming platforms.

    Connect with MAUMAUMAU

    TikTok • Instagram • Spotify • Apple Music

  • September 13th, 2024 (Washington, DC)— Today, rising indie-pop singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, producer, and artist Jeff Draco releases his highly anticipated EP, Attitude, led by the new single “Past Lives.” The project is now available for digital purchase and streaming on all major platforms. Listen, share, and buy here.


    “Past Lives” opens Attitude with a powerful reintroduction to an artist who, through the highs and lows of the past two years, has gained a deeper understanding of who he is—and, perhaps more importantly, who he is not. This journey of self-discovery and growth fuels the thematic heart of Draco’s most introspective and relatable songwriting. With dreamy synths dancing along the opening chords and riotous drums building momentum, “Past Lives” delivers a vibrant soundscape that mirrors the emotional complexity of reconnecting with someone from the past, all while fearing the outcome may be the same. Draco’s smooth, soaring vocals demand attention on the track, leading to an atmospheric guitar solo and an exhilarating bridge that is a hallmark of his evolving artistry.


    Reflecting on the project, Jeff Draco shares: “Attitude is about that deep longing for something more—whether in your relationships, your career, or just the way you experience life. It’s about navigating the complexities and turbulence of life when all you want is to feel carefree and have fun again. The EP is a journey through learning and growth, capturing the nostalgia of youth while grappling with the realities of adulthood. I wanted the project to evoke the feeling of a perfect summer day, or that moment right before the sun sets, when everything feels possible. Ultimately, it’s about embracing where you’ve been while focusing on where you’re going.”


    As the EP continues, “Attitude (I Want More)” explores how unresolved issues can create distance in relationships. The track’s moody synths and driving basslines build a dark wave atmosphere that underscores the tension and desire for something better. This theme of resilience and self-discovery is woven throughout the EP.


    The tone then shifts with “Mirrors,” a track that celebrates the excitement of new love through reflective lyrics and a summer vibe that captures Draco’s most intentional experimentation with a surf rock sound. With slick guitar riffs and energetic drums, “Mirrors” stands out as a dancefloor favorite. “Daisy” takes an introspective turn, highlighting the vulnerability of uncertainty at the beginning of a relationship, where you're questioning if what you see in the other person (or even yourself) is honest or too good to be true. The EP concludes with “Don’t Fly,” which explores the balance between closeness and independence, wrapped in an energetic indie soundscape that leaves listeners with a sense of reflection and hope.


    Attitude - EP Tracklist (Stream Here)

    1. Past Lives

    2. Attitude (I Want More)

    3. Mirrors

    4. Daisy

    5. Don’t Fly


    Written, produced, and recorded by Draco, the EP marks the Washington, DC-based artist’s first collaboration with GRAMMY-winning sound engineer Patrick Kehrier, who mixed and mastered the project. Fans can experience the EP live for the first time at Jeff Draco’s hometown EP release show on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at Union Stage.


    Attitude marks a significant milestone for Jeff Draco, as it’ll be his first project available on vinyl. A limited batch, which includes a poster insert, is available for pre-order on Bandcamp and JeffDraco.com.


    The release follows the 2023 momentum that led The Washington City Paper to call Jeff Draco "one of D.C.'s most popular indie-pop artists" and The Luna Collective to add he’s “on track to become the next household name.” Attitude is available for digital purchase and streaming on all major platforms. Listen, share, and buy here.

  • JEFF DRACO SHARES DREAMY ALT-POP SINGLE “DON’T FLY”: Listen

    EP RELEASE SHOW ANNOUNCED IN DC

    TICKETS AVAILABLE ON JEFFDRACO.COM

    Media Folder (Photo: Briana DeRosa)

    “From the moment you press play, you become aware of Jeff's unique sound and intriguing vocal talents.” - Early Rising

    "One of DC’s most popular indie-pop artists." - Washington City Paper

    “Indie Summer Anthem.” - Get Some Magazine on “Attitude (I Want More)”

    “Draco is on track to become the next household name.” - The Luna Collective

    “Indie-pop that imparts a refreshing feel of confident movement.” - Grotesqualizer

    “A dynamic charismatic appeal… radiates from every facet of his sound.” - CLOUT on “Mirrors”

    “[Draco] rides the euphoric production, lacing each riff with soulful vocals.” - Wonderland

    August 15th, 2024 (Washington, DC)—Today, indie singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Jeff Draco releases his new single, “Don’t Fly.” Introspective and honest, the song shows another side of Draco as he weighs the lessons inspiring his EP, Attitude, which will be released Friday, September 13th. Listen here and pre-order/save the EP here.

    Drawing from heartbreak, the excitement of new love, and personal growth, “Don’t Fly” reveals thoughtful vulnerability interwoven amongst dazzling synths and a heart-racing indie soundscape. “I just want you, but I won’t haunt you, ’cause I don’t want you to fly,” Draco croons over distorted autotune. It’s one of his most pointed lyrics on the project, and it’s about wanting nothing more than to be someone’s everything, knowing his feelings and decisions are not solely in his hands. Taking a step back from the anxieties that can creep in after a breakup, “Don’t Fly” is also the realization that insecurities about the past could sabotage a good thing in the present and future. It’s a benchmark of self-learning while also being cognizant of the growth and improvements still needed as he navigates relationships in his 20s.

    Leading up to “Don’t Fly,” Jeff Draco shared two singles, the “indie anthem” (Get Some Magazine) “Attitude (I Want More),” and “Mirrors,” a sun-soaked surf rock single channeling young love and summer beach vibes. See the tracklist for Attitude, which includes two unreleased songs, “Past Lives” and “Daisy.” To celebrate the release of Attitude, Jeff Draco will perform at Union Stage on Saturday, October 5th. Tickets are available now on JeffDraco.com. Special guests and additional Attitude show dates will be announced.

    Attitude - EP Tracklist (Pre-order HERE)

    1. Past Lives

    2. Attitude (I Want More): Stream

    3. Mirrors: Stream

    4. Daisy

    5. Don’t Fly: Stream

    Written, produced, and recorded by Draco, the EP marks the Washington, DC-based artist’s first collaboration with GRAMMY-winning sound engineer Patrick Kehrier (Paramore, Lizzo, Dua Lipa, Waterparks), who mixed and mastered the EP. Pre-order/save here.

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    ABOUT JEFF DRACO

    Jeff Draco is one of indie pop’s newest must-hear artists.

    After nearly a year crafting his new EP, Draco will unveil Attitude on September 13th, mixed and mastered by Record of the Year Grammy-winning engineer Patrick Kehrier. Attitude follows Draco’s 2022 EP, Freezing in Hollywood, and two highly praised 2023 singles, “Letters,” which premiered during a lauded 9:30 Club debut performance, and “Never Gonna Be The Same,” a stellar single that arrived as Draco embarked on an 8-date headlining tour by the same name. With a fresh, timeless sound, “one of DC’s most popular indie-pop artists” (Washington City Paper) was recently declared “on track to become the next household name” (The Luna Collective). This Fall, he returns with Attitude and a must-see live show.

    Follow Jeff Draco

    TikTok / Instagram / Spotify / Apple Music

  • Brooklyn, NY (August 2, 2024) — Neo-soul powerhouse Kristen Merritt is back to quell the summer heat with a refreshingly sweet and sultry new single and music video, “Ice Kream.” The song is available on all streaming platforms. Listen here and watch here.


    "Ice Kream" is a delightful exploration of human connection cleverly likened to the joy of flavorful ice cream. The track is driven by a tasty bassline that serves as the heartbeat of the song, while Merritt delivers an unfiltered performance that stands out as one of her most clever releases to date. This jazzy bop highlights Merritt’s immense songwriting prowess and creative range, solidifying her place as a versatile neo-soul artist.


    Merritt shares, "This song is part pop, part funk, and all parts sonically energizing and groovy! A song about ice cream for the later summer months that will be sure to get people moving and then looking for a treat shop to get a cold creamy scoop."


    Returning in June, Kristen Merritt made waves with her single “ISFTBS,” her first solo release in nearly three years. The track, accompanied by a vibrant self-directed music video, captivated audiences with its resonant instrumentation and unapologetic topline, showcasing Merritt’s sharp songwriting skills. Listen here. Praised for her soulful freedom in tracks like “I’m Done” and “Breathe,” the lead singles from her 2021 debut album, Joi, Merritt’s music has found a home on Spotify’s Fresh Finds playlists and garnered support from prominent platforms such as CLOUT, Parlé Magazine, Stereofox, and The Honey Pop, who declared her “the real deal.”


    After spending time working with other artists as a producer, songwriter, and vocalist, Merritt is stepping back into the spotlight with a series of new releases, starting with “ISFTBS” and now “Ice Kream.”


    About Kristen Merritt

    A Detroit native raised a little bit of everywhere else, Kristen Merritt has played everything from intimate coffee, bar, and lounge settings, to larger festival-style events, and has delighted listeners no matter the crowd size. As a solo artist, Kristen has found her sound in the neo-soul genre, blending in funk and alternative sounds, and the occasional electro-pop melody. Each song she writes tells a story, crafted to dynamic and powerful, often self-made beats.

  • June 25, 2024 (Los Angeles, CA)– Following the successful release of his debut album MAUCH in March, MAUMAUMAU, the innovative solo project of Mauricio Jimenez, is excited to highlight the standout summer single, "Get Lost." The track has quickly gained traction online, making it the perfect anthem for the season. Listen here.

    "Get Lost" is an exhilarating track that captures the essence of summer with its infectious rhythm and evocative lyrics. The song invites listeners to escape the mundane and embrace spontaneity, reflecting Mau’s signature blend of positivity and emotional honesty. The lyrics delve into themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the paradoxes of love and identity. Phrases like "Lean on your friends" and "Let's get lost in it" emphasize the importance of connection and shared experiences, while acknowledging the complexities and contradictions of human emotions.

    MAUCH, a breakup concept album that captures every phase after the end of a relationship, showcases Jimenez's eclectic indie rock influences and genre-defying creativity. The album's diverse soundscape, paired with Jimenez's thoughtful lyricism, offers a rich, immersive listening experience. Known for his ability to blend deep lyrical content with energetic beats, Jimenez has established himself as a distinctive voice in the indie music scene.

    Jimenez first gained attention with his critically acclaimed EP, Meow Meow Meow, which premiered on Atwood Magazine in 2021. The project included notable tracks like "Happy" and "Curveball Whip Cream," which set the stage for his debut album. MAUCH builds on this foundation, presenting a more mature and nuanced exploration of his musical vision.

    The release coincides with the rising popularity of Jimenez's weekly TikTok Live series, "Midnight Lullabies with MAUMAUMAU," which continues to gain momentum and has recently helped him surpass 10,000 followers on the platform.

    Jimenez shares, ‘My heart is full seeing ‘Get Lost’ gain traction after I played stripped-back versions of it during my TikTok Live sets.’ It’s a song that helped me through a trying moment in my breakup recovery, and to see it resonate with so many people is incredible. To me, this is a perfect summer song, about learning to let go and be in the moment. May it become the soundtrack to special moments for you this summer.”

    "Get Lost" and the entire album MAUCH are now available on all major streaming platforms. Join MAUMAUMAU and "Get Lost" in the soundtrack of your summer.

    MAUMAUMAU - MAUCH

    With You

    OMGi (Pt. 1&2)

    Get Lost

    Self-Esteem Check

    Get Away

    Oblivious

    Aug 5th

    God Bless the Irony

    Warm My Bones

    Stay a Bit

  • Brooklyn, NY (June 7, 2024)—Brooklyn-based neo-soul artist Kristen Merritt is back with a bite on her new song and music video, “ISFTBS,” her first solo single in nearly three years and the first since the release of her debut album, Joi. The release is accompanied by a vibrant self-directed visual. Watch and stream the single here.

    Quickly enveloping listeners in resonant instrumentation and harmonies, “ISFTBS” swings open with an unapologetic topline that proves Merritt’s songwriting is sharper than ever. Healing through the assertive lyricism, an upbeat melody masks prickly truths launched at someone who just couldn’t get it right. They’re some of Kristen's most unfiltered and raw lyrics yet, and they struck like lightning as she was writing.

    “I wrote this song in the summer of 2023 as a writing exercise where you take a few words and try to craft a narrative around them. I had already recorded the intro soundbite years earlier - just as a little melody that popped into my head with most likely a situation at the time that prompted the lyrics,” shares Kristen Merritt. “With this soundbite, the writing exercise, and a new desire to experiment with sound after taking a music course led by Kimbra, ‘ISFTBS’ spilled out of me in a way like no other song had. While I consider myself vulnerable in songs in the way of love, I have never in life or music written something that was so decidedly blunt and angry. Especially not with the chosen words of the intro. It’s part anger, part exasperation, all honesty.”

    Never one to shy away from the pen, “ISFTBS” recalls the soulful freedom of “I’m Done,” the incredible lead single from Kristen Merritt’s debut album, which found the Detroit native digging deep to close a massive chapter of her life through the use of music. Finding its way onto Spotify’s Fresh Finds and Fresh Finds: The Wave playlists, “I’m Done,” and Merritt quickly garnered support from platforms such as Ones To Watch, Parlé Magazine, and NYS Music. Kristen followed up with the singles “I Don’t Think About You” and “Breathe,” garnering praise from Guitar Girl Magazine, Stereofox, and The Honey Pop, who declared her “the real deal.” Now, after taking a step back to work with artists as a producer, songwriter, and vocalist, Kristen Merritt has resolved that her new music can no longer wait for its moment in the sun. The first of several releases scheduled for 2024, “ISFTBS,” is set to be released on June 7th.

  • May 31st, 2024 (Washington, DC)—Today, indie sensation Jeff Draco announces his new EP, Attitude, will be released on Friday, September 13th. Alongside the news, Draco unveils the project’s title track, “Attitude (I Want More).” The song and EP were mixed and mastered by GRAMMY Award-winning sound engineer Patrick Kehrier (Lizzo, Paramore, Waterparks). Listen and pre-order here.

    "Attitude (I Want More)" finds Draco in a deeply reflective state as he grapples with the impact of toxic relationships on his life. The contemplative track captures this raw emotional intensity, as Draco layers echoey vocals over crashing alt-rock guitars and smooth harmonies. The song highlights Jeff’s growth as a multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and producer, while also marking the start of a significant evolution that unfolds throughout Attitude.

    “Attitude is about dealing with a problem I didn’t create and deciding to put myself and my inner circle first. The situation made me miss the simplicity of my teen years and made me want to go into isolation since that felt easier,” shares Jeff Draco. “Eventually, avoiding the issue created more tension, so I had to face it. When I sing ‘Keep your needle on the mark when you look between his eyes,’ that’s about a conversation where a friend urged me not to let my guard down around someone I thought I could trust.”

    Having only shared two singles in 2023 –“Letters,” which navigates the aftermath of heartbreak, and “Never Gonna Be The Same” an introspective gem meant to draw you to the dancefloor– the new single welcomes a long-awaited era that almost didn’t happen. Despite beginning work on Attitude almost immediately following the release of his 2022 EP, Freezing in Hollywood, last year Draco’s laptop was stolen from his tour van, and with no backup of the project available, Attitude was almost entirely shelved.

    Yet, over the six months after the project was initially set for release, Draco revisited Attitude with fresh ears and renewed determination, breathing new life into every aspect and tapping into a more expansive sound. During this time, Draco connected and started collaborating with Kehrier.

    The EP opens with “Past Lives,” a project-defining piece that reflects on the feeling of wanting to embrace a new beginning with someone from your past but fearing repeating cycles. “Mirrors” arrives after the project’s title track and provides the EP with a touch of the sun-soaked surf rock Draco has long flirted with in his music, while “Daisy” is a nod to young love, and “Don’t Fly” contemplates the balance between intimacy and autonomy. See the EP tracklist and cover below.

    Attitude - EP Tracklist (Pre-order HERE)

    1. Past Lives

    2. Attitude (I Want More)

    3. Mirrors

    4. Daisy

    5. Don’t Fly

    Following a year that saw Draco share the stage with notable artists like Rebounder, Ray Bull, Boyscott, Carlie Hanson, and Vallis Alps, this next chapter begins following a nearly sold-out headline performance at The Atlantis in March, a celebrated performance supporting Georgetown University’s Earth Day Benefit Concert, and as his single "Dreamgirl" hits 725,000 streams.

    It’s another sign of the momentum that led The Washington City Paper to declare Jeff Draco as "one of D.C.'s most popular indie-pop artists" and The Luna Collective to share he’s “on track to become the next household name in the indie music scene.”

    A pivotal turning point, Attitude, will be released on September 13th, 2024.

  • Top Undiscovered Artist of 2022 by Kinda Cool Magazine

    “Draco’s trajectory has been extraordinary.” - Alchemical Records

    “Draco is on track to become the next household name in the indie music scene.” - The Luna Collective

    “[Draco] rides the euphoric production, lacing each riff with soulful vocals.” - Wonderland

    “That blissful energy that makes you fall in love with music is what shines to the fullest.” - Global Money World

    “A slice of dreamy alt-pop.” - I Dream of Vinyl

    “You only need to spend 5 seconds with Jeff for him to make you fall in love with music all over again.” - Melted Mag

    “Jeff Draco breathes easy-going, Southern California air into his borderline indie melodies.” - The UMD Diamondback

    “Jeff Draco warms up to a new day with his uniquely intimate performance.” - Tinnitist

    “There’s a strong communal element to Draco’s music, brimming to the surface with love and warmth.” - V13

    June 2, 2023 (Washington, DC) – Indie sensation Jeff Draco is back to unveil a new single, “Never Gonna Be The Same.” Stream HERE. The song arrives as a surprise release, bearing the same name as Jeff’s previously announced and quickly selling US tour, which is set to kick off on June 7th in Richmond, Virginia, with stops in Chicago, Atlanta, Nashville, Pittsburgh, Wilmington, and DC. See all tickets HERE.

    Months in the making, “Never Gonna Be The Same” sees Draco again collaborating with rising indie darling Blake Ruby on co-production to create a forward-thinking song that tested the limits of his songwriting and creativity. The end result is a gritty release oozing with nostalgia, slick guitar riffs, and intricately layered textures of sound. A song that contemplates both the changes affecting society around him, like violence in schools, and the changes he’s facing personally as he goes from a recent college graduate to now facing a new world filled with uncertainty, ‘Never Gonna Be The Same’ is meant to be as much a step back as it is a reason to just let go and dance as the world burns.

    “’NGBTS’ is about change, navigating the world as a young person, and trying to figure out how to deal with the weight of the world. It’s such a confusing time, things can feel scary, crazy, and in a lot of ways, like things are moving backwards,” shares Jeff Draco on the new single. “Part of this song is about the isolation that comes from a need to look out for ourselves because it doesn’t feel like anyone else from the top down can anymore or will, and a push to advocate for those who come behind us, too, since the systems currently in place aren’t always equipped to solve issues.” 

    Continuing to share the significance of the lyrics, Draco commented: “Some of the lines touch on gun violence, and when I say, ‘they can never keep the kids in school,’ that’s a direct commentary on all of the recent violence we’ve seen across the U.S. and a critique of the systems in place that are failing. It’s not meant to be political in any way, but as a people, we’re asking for change, and there are answers in front of us that could help solve these issues. The other aspect of the song is more introspectively about isolation and change, as I’m freshly out of college and now learning how to exist in the ‘real world.’ In both situations, I look back and realize things are never gonna be the same.”

    The song lands as Jeff Draco is set to take his euphoric sound on the road this summer on the Never Gonna Be The Same Tour. Kicking off on June 7th in Richmond, the eight-show run will ignite stages in a string of vibrant cities, including Charlotte, Atlanta, Nashville, Chicago, Pittsburgh, and Wilmington, before culminating with a monumental hometown finale on June 17th at Union Stage.

    The Never Gonna Be The Same Tour sees Draco returning to the stage following the release of "Letters," a mesmerizing alt-pop track that led The Luna Collective to declare him "on track to become the next household name in the indie music scene," and a year that has already welcomed opening slots for Carlie Hanson and Sophie Powers at Ottobar, and The Crystal Casino Band at 930 Club.

    A night of nostalgic pop with dreamy, surf-rock tendencies, Jeff Draco's upcoming tour will be the first opportunity for fans in major cities to hear "Dreamgirl," the sleeper hit which has already soared beyond 540k+ streams and 2022 EP, Freezing in Hollywood, which has accumulated 180k streams, gained support from Wonderland, Live Nation's Ones To Watch NMF playlist, and prompted Kinda Cool Magazine to name Jeff Draco one of its top Undiscovered Artists of 2022.

    Led by his new single, “Never Gonna Be The Same,” which is available to stream HERE, others in the pipeline, and fan favorites like "For Too Long" and "Feel So Gold" at Draco's ready disposal, the Never Gonna Be The Same Tour will be one of the best shows of the summer. Secure your spot for an explosive musical journey. Tickets are available now at JeffDraco.com.

    Never Gonna Be The Same Tour

    June 7 – Richmond, VA @ The Alley w/ REIN

    June 8 – Charlotte, NC @ Petra’s w/ Low Groves and Charm

    June 9 – Nashville, TN – Twisted Tea Garden

    June 10 – Atlanta, GA – Smith’s Olde Bar w/ Nolan Bennett

    June 12 – Chicago, IL – Sleeping Village w/ TOPAZ and Old Coke

    June 14 – Pittsburgh, PA – The Forge w/ Stevie Flowers and moontown

    June 16 – Wilmington, DE – The Crown w/ Grant Claytor

    June 17 – Washington, DC – Union Stage w/ Scorpio

    Tickets available at JeffDraco.com

  • February 10, 2023 (Washington, D.C.) – Today, rising D.C.-based indie artist Jeff Draco returns with his first new single of the year, "Letters." Co-produced by artist and friend Blake Ruby, the song is about a past relationship and Jeff Draco’s response to a letter his ex wrote him to admit infidelity. Listen on all streaming platforms HERE.

    A standout release for the 22-year-old artist and a clear indication of what’s to come, “Letters” is Jeff Draco at his most revelatory. On the track, his songwriting straddles the juxtaposition of moody heartbreak and visualizing a brighter future ahead.

    Discussing the track, Jeff Draco shares, “I couldn't be happier with how the song turned out. It's a breakup song but also very much an 'I'm over you and moved on' song. It's 100% the most painful song I've written and is the most in-depth and vulnerable I've ever been in my writing. I can't wait for people to hear this song."

    “Letters” arrives following Jeff Draco’s debut at D.C.’s iconic 9:30 Club last night, and after an incredible year that saw Draco reach 160k listeners / 520k streams on Spotify, headline a 3-show residency at DC9, tour the east coast with Vermont band Moxie, release his sophomore EP, Freezing in Hollywood, and cap the year with a sold-out Breaking Sound show, sponsored by Spirit Airlines’ #Music4Miles, at Baltimore, MD’s Metro Gallery, alongside The Never Ending Fall.

    While continuing to grow a stronger presence on TikTok (5M+ views/600k+ likes), and as his 2021 sleeper hit “Dreamgirl” surpasses 450k streams and 14k playlist adds on Spotify, Jeff Draco is already working on more new music set to release in 2023 – with fans getting their first preview of the artist’s next era today with “Letters.” Stream the single HERE. See more on JeffDraco.com.


    Jeff Draco on TikTok / Instagram / Spotify / Apple Music

  • January 20th, 2023 (New York, NY) — Today, up-and-coming Indian-American producer, singer-songwriter, rapper, DJ, and visual artist, NIMBU, releases her debut single, “Eleventh Hour,” alongside its accompanying music video.

    Stream the track HERE and watch the video HERE

    Splitting her time between New York City, USA, and Bengaluru, India, NIMBU’s work is informed by the sounds of her eclectic Indian-American adolescence— her father’s hums of 80s Bollywood classics; the soulful hip-hop mixtapes exchanged on the school bus; and the global house grooves she brings to dance-floors across the US and India.

    “Eleventh Hour” is the perfect sonic amalgamation of these diverse influences. Entirely produced by NIMBU, the upbeat single sets nostalgic disco-soul trumpets and sitars on top of UK garage-inspired percussion to offer a refreshing take on Bollywood-inspired dance music.

    Described by NIMBU as “a bilingual ode to the comeback kids,” the track serves as an uplifting reminder to celebrate the twists and turns that make each of our journeys unique: “As someone who struggles with ADD, writing this track was a therapeutic process of accepting my own timeline.” The track features NIMBU’s layered interpolation of the 1986 Bollywood classic, Zindagi Ki Yahi Reet Hai, reflecting in Hindi how “victory only comes after defeat.” The contrast of her quick-witted rap verses and melancholic Hindi melodies results in a refreshing reflection on the timeless proverb: “it’s better late than never.” 

    Eleventh Hour is visually brought to life by rising star Indian filmmakers, Anurag Baruah, Bhavya Pansari, and Aatish Sarkar (Roznama Films, The Form Co.). The video follows the journey of the artist running through the streets of Bengaluru to reach a party just before the stroke of midnight– reclaiming the narrative around showing up at the last minute. The music video artfully weaves a mix of old-school Bollywood references into the setting of modern-day Indian nightlife. Inspired by a gritty, horror aesthetic, Eleventh Hour is a visually exciting portrait of Indian urban culture, encapsulated in an off-beat narrative about perseverance.

    NIMBU on Instagram

    About NIMBU

    NIMBU is an NYC/Bengaluru-based neo-soul, dance, and alternative hip-hop singer-songwriter, rapper, DJ, producer, and visual artist. Entirely self-produced, she melts together the sounds of her eclectic Indian-American adolescence- her father's hums of Kishore Kumar classics; the soulful hip-hop mixtapes exchanged on the school bus; and the global disco-house grooves she has spun across dance-floors in New York, San Francisco and Washington, DC.

    A lifelong musician, she trained for 10 years as a jazz and classical vocalist. Kick-started by the GRAMMY Foundation’s selective high-school summer music program, she began producing experimental indie-electronic beats and fell in love with DJing in her late teens. After attending the Ableton training centers, Arjaus (Buenos Aires) and Pyramind (San Francisco), she launched a disco-pop project, Madverb, which amassed more than 60k Spotify streams.

    After years of crafting her skills as a producer/DJ, she packed up her life in New York City and moved to India in search of her sonic origins— the sounds of a culture deeply embedded into her diasporic upbringing. Settled in the blossoming indie music scene in Bengaluru, she brings a fresh take to the growing body of Indian-fusion music. Her classic Bollywood-inspired sound traverses a variety of genres, from alternative hip-hop to nu-disco to electro-RnB.

  • “Jeff Draco’s ‘Dreamgirl’ is what your summer playlist has been dreaming of…” – At Capacity

    “A vibey offering that is most definitely in need of your attention.” – Early Rising on “Losing My Mind”

    “Blissful energy that makes you fall in love with music.” – Global Money World on “Fall For Another Day”

    “Coming at us full force with thrashing retro-tinged guitar melodies and a thumping bass line, the artist rides the euphoric production, lacing each riff with soulful vocals.” – Wonderland on “Fall For Another Day”

    August 27, 2022 (Washington, DC) – Today, rising bedroom pop artist Jeff Draco returns with Freezing in Hollywood: Sunrise Sessions. Idyllic and peaceful, the visual sees Draco performing his latest 6-track EP, Freezing in Hollywood, in its entirety as the sun awakens the US East Coast. Watch here.

    Guided by the gritty, indie-leaning vocals characterizing his standout effort, Draco takes fans by boat along the eastern shore, a cherished experience for the Maryland-raised artist, before jumping into fan favorites such as “Desiderium” and “Feel So Gold” accompanied by his guitar. 

    Jeff Draco’s latest visual arrives following the release of his July EP, Freezing in Hollywood, which recently surpassed 150k global streams and has notched project support from Wonderland, Ones to Watch, A1234, Soundazed, Quadio, and others. The EP was also supported by an East Coast summer tour alongside Vermont band Moxie and an amazing EP release show at DC9.

    Reflecting on the project, Jeff Draco shares: “I woke up early one morning at my grandparents’ house on the Chesapeake Bay right before my EP release show at DC9 in July. Feeling inspired and encouraged with my EP ‘Freezing in Hollywood’ newly out in the world, I decided to hop on their boat, putt out to the channel of the bay (just as the sun was rising), and record a laid-back, stripped version of my EP. This session is essentially as raw as it gets, I was missing a string on my guitar and definitely was a little sleep-deprived too, haha. I’m really happy with how this turned out, and I couldn’t have done it without the help of Briana DeRosa (IG: @ok.nowadays), who filmed the entire thing and has also filmed/directed my two most recent music videos off of FIH.”

    Available on all streaming platforms, Jeff Draco’s Freezing in Hollywood follows Jeff’s 2021 sleeper hit “Dreamgirl,” which continues to surge, recently surpassing 400k streams and a stellar year that saw Draco attract over 5 million views and 600k+ likes on TikTok. For more information, please visit JeffDraco.com.Item description

  • August 5, 2022 (Washington, DC)– Today, rising bedroom pop artist Jeff Draco returns with the music video for “Freezing in Hollywood,” the title track and new single off his EP, which arrived on July 8th: Watch

    Directed by Briana DeRosa with assistance from Luca Leonardini and Jack Landau, Draco’s FIH visualarrives on the heels of his East Coast summer tour with Vermont band Moxie and last week’s unruly EP release show at DC9 with special guests Grant Claytor and Moon Tide Gallery.

    Continuing to explore and expose new aspects of his artistry, the dramatic visual sees Draco performing his experimental pop track against contrasted color waves as he delivers the powerful wordplay that draws in listeners time and again. A stark deviation from previous videos, the emotive clip is further evidence that Jeff Draco is experiencing his own musical enlightenment, capturing the knee-jerk reaction to navigating the piercing highs and deep lows of life.

    The track marks the third single off Freezing in Hollywood andis Jeff Draco, unlike anything anyone has ever heard. From the “thrashing retro-tinged” (Wonderland) opening track “Fall For Another Day,” which landed last autumn to support from Ones to Watch, V13, and Global Money World, to the indie anthem “Desiderium,” which has garnered over 40k streams and arrived with a 90s-inspired video (watch), Draco’s sonic and visual growth as an artist has been years in the making and stunningly captured on FIH.

    Whether nestled within layered guitar-kissed melodies on “Feel So Gold” or swimming among the aura of experimental synths and drums on “Freezing in Hollywood,” the EPfinds the young artist delving deeper into writing the relatable and vulnerable lyrics he’s become known for while connecting with longtime friend and cohort Grant Claytor to hone in on his sound and deliver a cohesive, must-hear project that is lighthearted and summer-ready yet still pensive and revealing.

    Reflecting on the project, Jeff Draco shares: “Freezing in Hollywood is a collection of songs I’ve written over the past three years. A lot has changed in my life while working on this EP, some good, some bad, and I think this project exemplifies that. These songs touch on love, infatuation, self-reflection, pain, and more; it’s a rollercoaster of emotions. Despite the name, this project has nothing to do with Hollywood. The idea of FIH is more so the feeling when you can be at your highest and best while also feeling like everything isn’t right or what you thought it would be. I want FIH to be something people can grasp onto - whether in a sad place or your happiest place. This project is the first in which I’ve really looked outward. I worked with friend and collaborator Grant Claytor, who co-produced this project, and brought a new light to these songs. Bringing in Grant caused me to revisit several of the songs after feeling stuck and not feeling like they had reached their max potential. After three years, I’ve made my best project yet.”

    Grant Claytor also shares: “Jeff has a knack for writing a catchy song no matter the mood, evident by ‘Feel So Gold’ and ‘Freezing in Hollywood,’ and I was so stoked to be able to work on this EP and help bring his ideas to fruition. I’ve known and appreciated Jeff’s music for a couple years now, so working together on his demos was a joy.”

    Jeff Draco – Freezing In Hollywood EP

    1. Fall For Another Day

    2. Mango Kisses

    3. The Way I Was Before

    4. Feel So Gold

    5. Freezing In Hollywood

    Available on all streaming platforms, Jeff Draco’s Freezing in Hollywood follows the 2021 release of Jeff’s sleeper hit “Dreamgirl,” which continues to surge, recently surpassing 295k streams, and a stellar year that saw Draco pick up over 4 million views and 600k likes on TikTok. For more information, please visit JeffDraco.com.

  • July 8, 2022 (Washington, DC)– Today, rising bedroom pop artist Jeff Draco unveils his highly anticipated EP, Freezing in Hollywood, led by the project’s title track and two previously unheard songs, “Mango Kisses” and “The Way I Was Before.” Stream the project on all platforms here.

    Freezing in Hollywood is Jeff Draco, unlike anyone has ever heard. From the “thrashing retro-tinged” (Wonderland) opening track “Fall For Another Day,” which landed last autumn to support from Ones to Watch, V13, and Global Money World, to the indie anthem “Desiderium,” which has garnered over 40k streams and arrived with a 90s-inspired video (watch), Draco’s sonic and visual growth as an artist has been years in the making and stunningly captured on FIH.

    Whether nestled within layered guitar-kissed melodies on “Feel So Gold” or swimming among the aura of experimental synths and drums on “Freezing in Hollywood,” the EP finds the young artist delving deeper into writing the relatable and vulnerable lyrics he’s become known for while connecting with longtime friend and cohort Grant Claytor to hone in on his sound and deliver a cohesive, must-hear project that is lighthearted and summer-ready yet still pensive and revealing.

    Reflecting on the project, Jeff Draco shares: “Freezing in Hollywood is a collection of songs I’ve written over the past three years. A lot has changed in my life while working on this EP, some good, some bad, and I think this project exemplifies that. These songs touch on love, infatuation, self-reflection, pain, and more; it’s a rollercoaster of emotions. Despite the name, this project has nothing to do with Hollywood. The idea of FIH is more so the feeling when you can be at your highest and best while also feeling like everything isn’t right or what you thought it would be. I want FIH to be something people can grasp onto - whether in a sad place or your happiest place. This project is the first in which I’ve really looked outward. I worked with friend and collaborator Grant Claytor, who co-produced this project and brought a new light to these songs. Bringing in Grant caused me to revisit several of the songs after feeling stuck and not feeling like they had reached their max potential. After three years, I’ve made my best project yet, and I can’t wait for it to be yours.”

    Grant Claytor also shares: “Jeff has a knack for writing a catchy song no matter the mood, evident by ‘Feel So Gold’ and ‘Freezing in Hollywood,’ and I was so stoked to be able to work on this EP and help bring his ideas to fruition. I’ve known and appreciated Jeff’s music for a couple years now, so working together on his demos was a joy. I’m excited to share the stage again with my friend on the 30th because I know he pulls a happy crowd and puts on a killer show!”

    Jeff Draco – Freezing In Hollywood EP

    1. Fall For Another Day

    2. Mango Kisses

    3. The Way I Was Before

    4. Desiderium

    5. Feel So Gold

    6. Freezing In Hollywood

    Available on all streaming platforms, Jeff Draco’s Freezing in Hollywood arrives on the heels of his East Coast summer tour with Vermont band Moxie and ahead of his July 30th EP release show at DC9 featuring special guests Grant Claytor and Moon Tide Gallery. Purchase tickets here. FIH also follows the 2021 release of Jeff’s sleeper hit “Dreamgirl,” which continues to surge, recently surpassing 250k streams, and a stellar year that saw Draco pick up over 4 million views and 600k likes on TikTok. For more information, please visit JeffDraco.com.

  • May 25th, 2022 – Today, rising bedroom pop artist Jeff Draco announces the summer release of his new EP, Freezing In Hollywood, with the shimmering gem, “Feel So Gold.” A soaring indie jam, Draco is relentless on guitar while pouring his heart out on the Grant Claytor co-produced track.

    The third single off his highly-anticipated new project, “Feel So Gold” sees the Maryland artist entering a new phase of his artistry by collaborating with Claytor, who co-produced, mixed, and mastered four of the tracks featured on the upcoming EP.

    Reflecting on the release, Jeff shares: “feel so gold is a reassuring letter to myself reminding me to not get caught up over small anxieties and to not ruminate over every little detail. It also alludes to not wanting to ruin a good thing while it’s good – or when you ‘feel so gold’.”

    Gold follows Draco’s latest release, “Desiderium,” which has accumulated over 30k streams, and is accompanied by a visual directed by Jeff Draco and Briana DeRosa. Stream here. Jeff also shared the “thrashing retro-tinged” (Wonderland) song “Fall For Another Day” in November, garnering support from Ones To Watch, V13, and Global Money World. Stream here.

    Available on all streaming platforms this summer, Freezing In Hollywood will feature three new songs, “Mango Kisses,” “The Way I Was Before,” and the project’s title track. A spectrum of emotions, and sonic palettes the EP is some of Draco’s best work yet and finds the young artist delving deeper into writing the relatable and vulnerable lyrics he’s become known for while connecting with Grant to home in on his sound and deliver a cohesive, must-hear project.

    Jeff Draco – Freezing In Hollywood EP

    1. Fall For Another Day

    2. Mango Kisses

    3. The Way I Was Before

    4. Feel So Gold

    5. Freezing In Hollywood

    Jeff Draco’s new EP arrives as his June single “Dreamgirl” continues to surge, gaining over 100k streams in three months, and elevating Jeff’s monthly listeners beyond 20k. Following a 3-show residency at DC9 in February, he returned in early May to perform alongside The Palms.

    With summer tour dates on the horizon supporting the east coast leg of Vermont band Moxie’s North American run, Jeff Draco will be making his debut in Asbury Park, NJ June 1st and Brooklyn, NY June 2nd, and will return to Philadelphia, PA June 3rd, Washington, DC June 5th, and Richmond, VA June 7th. See the full run below and keep an eye out for more dates soon.

    6/1 - Asbury Park (18+) - The Saint w/ Moxie and Foxhedge 

    6/2 - Brooklyn – TBA w/ Grant Claytor

    6/3 - Philadelphia - Ukie Club w/ Moxie and Humilitarian

    6/5 - Washington, D.C. - Pie Shop w/ Moxie and Makeup Girl band

    6/7 - Richmond – The Camel w/ Moxie and Celler Dwellers

    More TBA – Tickets available on JeffDraco.com

    Jeff Draco also recently partnered with Leesta Vall to participate in their Direct-To-Vinyl Live Sessions. Available only via pre-order, fans can visit JD’s Leesta Vall page to purchase a 7” vinyl recording of Jeff’s most popular songs yet, “Dreamgirl” or “For Too Long,” which will then be performed by Jeff in Leesta Vall’s Brooklyn, NY studio and cut to vinyl live on June 2nd. For more information or to pre-order a vinyl, please click here.


    Following a year that saw Jeff Draco accumulate 4 million views and 600k likes on TikTok and share the stage with Austin Weber, Moon Tide Gallery, and The Never Ending Fall, he returns this summer with a phenomenal new EP and a must-see new live show. For more information, please visit JeffDraco.com.

  • February 25th, 2022 (Washington, DC) – Rising indie-pop artist Jeff Draco returns with a wistful and reflective new single, “Desiderium.” Composed, mixed, and mastered entirely by Draco, the song finds the 21-year-old artist chronicling the deterioration of friendships, people seemingly drifting apart without reason and wishing it was easier to return to better days of the past. The song is released with a visual directed by Jeff Draco and Briana DeRosa. Stream on all platforms HERE.

    Imbued in dreamy synths and driven by carefully-crafted guitar solos, “Desiderium” is Jeff Draco exploring new emotional depths to his sound while expanding his illustrative songwriting to share some of his most personal and poignant lyrics yet. Comparing the separation to a diet, he captures the significance of the loss he feels while delving into shimmering indie gold highlighted by a memorable hook and Jeff’s wallowing vocals.

    “‘Desiderium’ is about coming to terms with friends slowly growing apart and trying to get back to ‘the days’ of the past,” shares Jeff Draco. “The song explores trying to understand a new normal of confused distance between people. I wrote the song as a ballad in 2015 but revisited the idea and rewrote lyrics in 2021. As for the video, I wanted to focus on visual elements and aesthetics (like the recurring yellow) over a particular storyline. We wanted to capture a real feeling surrounding every scene and for viewers to gain their interpretation. I feel we did that – I hope others see it, too.” The song follows Jeff’s June sleeper hit “Dreamgirl,” which has become his second solo single to surpass 100k streams and the November release of Jeff’s “thrashing retro-tinged” (Wonderland) single, “Fall For Another Day,” which gained support from Ones to Watch, V13, FOMO Blog, and Global Money World. It also arrives as the 21-year-old UMD College Park Senior surpasses 4 million views and 600k likes on TikTok and completes a February residency at independent music venue DC9.

    Following on from a year that saw Jeff Draco share the stage with Austin Weber and Moon Tide Gallery, the rising artist packed DC9 for three shows in February with varying support from DMV

    musicians GLOSSER, The Dune Flowers, Homesick Locations, and Skate Stance. Draco was also the guest opener for The Never Ending Fall’s EP release show at Metro Gallery in Baltimore.

    “Desiderium” is the new single from an upcoming project Jeff Draco will soon announce. For more information, tickets, and tour dates, please visit JeffDraco.com.

    FOLLOW JEFF DRACO

    https://vm.tiktok.com/TTPdYpRKqf/

    https://instagram.com/jeffdraco

    Jeff Draco on Spotify

    Jeff Draco on Apple Music

  • February 7, 2022 – Washington, D.C. music venue DC9 and rising singer-songwriter Jeff Draco have partnered to deliver a special residency for February. Joined by alternating guest openers and with unique setlists promised, the all-ages shows are unmissable for indie fans and is available as free admission with ticket pre-registration on dc9.club.

    The news follows the November release of Jeff’s “thrashing retro-tinged” (Wonderland) single, “Fall For Another Day,” which gained support from Ones to Watch, V13, Soundazed, and Global Money World. It also arrives as the 21-year-old University of Maryland – College Park Senior surpasses 3 million views and 550k likes on TikTok over the last six months.

    Draco, who previously performed at Firefly Festival, and shared the stage last year with breakout artists like Austin Weber and Moon Tide Gallery, is also scheduled to perform as a supporting act for The Never Ending Fall’s EP release show on February 11, 2022, at Metro Gallery in Baltimore, Maryland. For more information, tickets, and future tour dates, please visit JeffDraco.com.

    Jeff Draco Live – February 2022

    09 – Washington, DC @ DC9 w/ GLOSSER* (Tickets)

    11 – Baltimore, MD @ Metro Gallery w/ Never Ending Fall (Tickets)

    17 – Washington, DC @ DC9 w/ The Dune Flowers, Homesick Locations* (Tickets)

    23 – Washington, DC @ DC9 w/ Skate Stance* (Tickets)

    *Free admission with pre-registration on dc9.club

    FOLLOW JEFF DRACO

    ​​https://jeffdraco.com/

    https://vm.tiktok.com/TTPdYpRKqf/ (3M views/550k likes)

    https://instagram.com/jeffdraco (3.2k)

    Jeff Draco on Spotify

    Jeff Draco on Apple Music

    ABOUT JEFF DRACO

    Jeff Draco is a 21-year-old musician from Maryland fusing kaleidoscopic dream pop with vibrant beach rock sensibilities to create “thrashing retro-tinged” (Wonderland) and euphoric music.

    Part of a musical family, Jeff found his sonic footing at an early age. In addition to featuring on Diamond Youth’s Topshelf Records EP, Don’t Lose Your Cool, the rising artist also performed in various bands throughout his high school years before venturing on his own in 2017.

    From house shows to D.C. venues and Firefly Festival 2019, Jeff Draco toured his 2018 debut album, Paradise, across the east coast while establishing himself as one of indie pop’s newest must-hear artists. Along the way, he also shared “For Too Long,” which has attracted 180k+ streams and eventually became the lead single off his six-song EP, 2101.

    Releasing music throughout 2020, Draco’s funk-infused “Last Night” secured a placement on Spotify’s metropolis playlist and was followed by “Losing My Mind” featuring Bean Beal – “a vibey offering that is most definitely in need of your attention, if you want to start your week off right and indulge in some good vibes and positive vibrations.” (Early Rising)

    Following a collaboration with Skate Stance, Jeff released “Dreamgirl,” a song about “a girl that feels like a dream, and leaves as quickly as she comes” (At Capacity) in June 2021. Made with the help of his band, the song has become one of his most popular, gaining 80k streams in six months.

    Ahead of a new EP arriving in Spring 2022, Jeff Draco shared “Fall For Another Day,” a song about long-distance relationships, gaining support from Wonderland, Ones to Watch, V13, Soundazed, and Global Money World, a massive year capped by Jeff Draco accumulating 3 million views and 550k likes on TikTok and sharing the stage with Austin Weber, Moon Tide Gallery, and The Never Ending Fall.

    See more on JeffDraco.com.

  • November 19th – Rising singer-songwriter Jeff Draco returns with his highly anticipated new single, “Fall For Another Day.” Following a year of pandemic lockdowns that brought many couples closer, the dreamy alt-pop track explores a new era of long-distance relationships in a world slowly returning to a new normal. The release is accompanied by a lyric video. Stream the song HERE and watch the lyric video HERE. 

    Longing to be by his partner’s side, the 21-year-old Maryland native delivers some of his most love-soaked and relatable lyrics yet, wishing he could change time to expedite their reunion, as an uplifting guitar melody guides the indie serenade. A love letter of sorts, it finds Draco not only developing his illustrative songwriting but also his knack for bright, memorable soundscapes driven by his elaborate work on the guitar and drums.

    On the new single, Jeff Draco shares: “this song is very personal for me and has my whole heart in it. i feel like it’s more vulnerable than some of my other work. i had a ton of finished demos, a lot of which experimented with slightly different styles/sounds prior to writing “Fall For Another Day,” but felt like FFAD was how i wanted to move forward with my sound. it includes a lot of my ‘signature’ sounds in terms of FX and tone but introduces some new elements in style. i wanted to create something with a lot of energy. this song also set a baseline for how i’ve approached all songs i’ve written since.”

    Jeff’s new single follows the June release of “Dreamgirl,” which recently surpassed 48k Spotify streams, receiving over 15k streams in the last month alone. Written, recorded, and self-produced with the help of his band, Jeff draws influence from Gus Dapperton, The Cure, and Dayglow, while exploring a modern love story.

    Emerging in early 2018 with “On My Mind” and “Don’t Keep Me Waiting Around,” Jeff followed up with the release of his debut album, Paradise, that same September. He’s accumulated 400k+ streams in just over two years, with his 2019 single, “For Too Long” picking up 170k+ streams on Spotify alone. The song, which features on Jeff’s 2019 EP, 2101, was followed by “Last Night” in 2020, which landed on Spotify’s coveted metropolis playlist.

    Having toured the U.S. East Coast in 2019, Jeff also had an opportunity to play at Firefly Festival 2019 and across multiple venues in the DC area. In September 2021, Jeff returned to headline the first show at Songbyrd DC’s new location in Union Market, playing alongside Moontide Gallery and The Never Ending Fall. This November, he’ll open for Austin Weber on the DC stop of his headline tour. 

    Attracting over 3 million views and 400k+ likes on TikTok in 2021, Jeff Draco is also quickly becoming a social media sensation and dynamic artist, harnessing a balance between his music and carefree, upbeat online persona. With more music on the way, Jeff Draco is a must-hear rising artist.

  • November 19th (Los Angeles, CA) – Today, Mexican singer-songwriter and producer MAUMAUMAU returns with a Jack Dytrych-directed blast from the past on his 90s-inspired music video for “Get Your Feet Wet” featuring Curtis Kelley. Watch HERE.

    Released on August 18th, “Get Your Feet Wet” is a much-needed anthem for leading with boldness to broader horizons, even if your first attempts at getting out there start with a cautious toe-dip or just getting your feet wet.

    Co-produced and featuring Curtis Kelley, the song takes listeners to an indie sweet spot of the late ‘90s and early ‘00s with a spectrum of textures and wonky instrumentation, while its accompanying visual take Mauricio Jimenez’s creative vision to new heights with a vibrant video that sees him performing in multiple scenes alongside Kelley.

    “Just a big kid trying to make it to the deep-end,” the music video and song capture Mau continuing to lightheartedly encourage anyone that has ever felt like an underdog to achieve beyond self-imposed limitations and those set by others.

    “The music video for “Get Your Feet Wet” was, like the song, supposed to take you back with some nostalgia,” Mau shares. “It’s a nostalgic and fun song made to feel like summer days back in the early 2000s.  So naturally, we wanted the music video to also feel like a throwback with the fisheye lens, the wacky outfits, and the different locations. It was a ton of fun to make and I hope you have a ton of fun watching it.”

    The “Get Your Feet Wet” video arrives as the song surpasses 23k Spotify streams. The track is Mau’s first single following his debut EP, Meow Meow Meow, which was released via AWAL on May 21st. Stream the EP on Spotify and Apple Music.

    Meow Meow Meow is a 5-track project featuring "Curveball Whip Cream,'' “Famous,” indie ballad “Distracted (Millennial Blues),” ambitiously experimental, ''Happy,” and head-turning crossover “Alright.” An earnest project, Meow Meow Meow is a sonically bold debut, genre-defying and reflective by nature, melancholic and vulnerable yet charismatic and upbeat, honest, and an enticingly fresh interpretation of overcoming the self-defeating internal dialogues we face daily.

    On the project, Mau shares: “MEOW MEOW MEOW was intended to be my introduction to the world as MAUMAUMAU. It is a compilation of my first songs as a solo artist, and it really represents me as a songwriter and a producer. When I finished the EP, the world got hit by the pandemic, and new songs like "Mouth Breather" just spilled out of me as things became grimmer. It felt like the wrong time to release my first project. But now, it feels more relevant than ever. It is an EP about dealing with the internal dialogues we all have when dealing with ourselves all the time. It is deep but fun and playful."

    "A visceral and vulnerable debut EP that beats to the tune of its own drum" (Atwood) – MAUMAUMAU's must-hear debut project, Meow Meow Meow, has already amassed over 65k streams. See the tracklist:

    Stream on Spotify and Apple Music

    Meow Meow Meow – EP Tracklist

    1. Curveball Whip Cream

    2. Famous

    3. Distracted

    4. Alright

    5. Happy

  • Brooklyn, NY (September 14, 2021) – Today, Brooklyn-based neo-soul artist Kristen Merritt unveils her self-produced, mixed, and mastered independent debut album, Joi. The release is accompanied by a surprise new music video for the album's latest single, "Breathe" (WATCH), and highlighted by new tracks, "Lost in Time," "Rise," "Empty," "Last Week," and "Take Me." Stream HERE.

    While “I’m Done” and “I Don’t Think About You” reflect on past relationships, “Breathe” is a much-needed reset. Realizing the suffering she has embraced by allowing negative thoughts to linger, Kristen Merritt’s poignant lyrics of overcoming self-imposed pain arrive as a liberating, deep exhalation. New songs from the 8-track album also stand out as must-hears, like "Rise," a song about giving your former self more credit while also recognizing there's space to grow, "Lost in Time," which explores ruminating feelings, and new experiences on "Last Week."

    On her debut album, Kristen Merritt shares: "While I have been proud of all of the music I have released up to this point, this album is unique, and symbolizes a grand shift for me as a musician. A shift in my music, where through abundant joy, I have found my sound and leaned into it with great delight. "Joi" is an album narrating stories of growth and self-discovery, through love, pain, loss, curiosity, fearlessness, and of course, radiant joy. These songs inspire me to move, dance, sing along, cry - each with a message embedded within it that I need to be reminded of. That, I think, we could all afford to be reminded of every once in a while - that there is no shame at all in deeply feeling and deeply expressing. I want to spread as much love, joy, and self-expression as possible in this world, and this album is my first take at doing so."

    Following August performances with SoFar Sounds in Brooklyn and a set at Rockwood Music Hall, Joi is an invitation into the eclectic, vibrant world of a budding powerhouse. Highlighted by organic, lush instrumentation, unforgettable melodies, and led by Kristen’s distinctive voice and clever songwriting, the project serves as a proper introduction to an artist at the cusp of a breakout year. See the tracklist below and stream HERE.

    Kristen Merritt - Joi tracklist

    1. Breathe

    2. Empty

    3. I’m Done

    4. I Don’t Think About You

    5. Last Week

    6. Lost In Time

    7. Rise

    8. Take Me

    Follow Kristen Merritt 

    Facebook • Instagram • Twitter • Spotify • Apple Music

    PRESS ASSETS (Photo credit: Marissa Yates)

  • July 23, 2021 (Brooklyn, NY) Brooklyn-based Colombian producer, singer-songwriter, and sound engineer Otto Botté invites listeners on a dream-like experience with his debut EP, Dancing Company, Vol. 1, which is available today on all platforms. Consisting of five unique tracks, the EP represents Otto’s formal introduction as a solo artist. Stream HERE.

    With Dancing Company, Vol. 1, the multi-talented artist demonstrates his ability to excitingly infuse traditional Colombian roots music and Latin pop with elements of house music. Dance influences he’s absorbed since immigrating from a decade of living and immersing himself in NYC’s nightlife and music scene. In May, Botté released the EP’s title track, “Dancing Company,” with a first spin premiere on Los Angeles’ 88.5FM Bilingual Sounds. Quickly accumulating over 45k global streams, the song received early support from NPR World Cafe's Best New LatinX, Bands Do Brooklyn, Nuevo Culture, Indie Criollo, and more.

    Otto says: “This EP sums up a thrilling chapter in my life. A chapter full of love, heartache, passion, and uncertainty. This journey has brought me closer to God and redefined my voice as a creative. I took a look back into my childhood, reminisced on dance recitals of latin traditional music in elementary school, and house and dance music that kept me groovin’ thru my junior and high school years back in Bogotá. On that trip back in time, I grabbed the last few ingredients I was looking for to create something true to who I am.”

    In addition to the title track, “Dancing Company, Vol I” is composed of 4 tracks including “Humbara,” which recently surpassed 100K global streams, received support from NPR Music's World Cafe, and was featured on Botté’s DJ mix for LatinAlt HD3 – which took over radio waves every Saturday in February 2021. Botté, who returned to solo music in September 2020 with “En Vela” ft. Nic Hanson gained support from Acid Stag, Medium, Urban Latino, The Fox Magazine, Kick Kick Snare, etc. Additionally, two hypnotizing remixes by Jacuzzi Jefferson add a twist to an already spectacular piece of work. See the tracklist below:

    Otto Botté – Dancing Company, Vol. I Tracklist

    1. En Vela ft. Nic Hanson

    2. Dancing Company ft. Emma Claye

    3. Humbara 

    4. Dancing Company (Jacuzzi Jefferson Remix)

    5. En Vela (Jacuzzi Jefferson Remix)

    Since arriving in NYC as a teenager from Bogotá, the self-taught, multi-faceted sound engineer and artist has spent the last decade working with a spectrum of rising and prominent musicians. In addition to working on the multi-platinum projects of Enrique Iglesias, Joey Bada$$, Trey Songz, Fedez, and more. Botté is also a member of the NYC-based electronic trio Pool Cosby, which most recently released its Day Breaks album in 2020 and has been featured on Billboard, Earmilk, GRUNGECAKE, and more.

    Follow Otto Botté on Facebook Instagram Twitter Spotify Apple Music YouTube

  • June 25, 2021 (New York, NY) Multi-talented artist SHAREEF KEYES and sample-based electronic trio POOL COSBY are back to deliver their new song and music video, “Plant Mom,” an early contender for the song of the summer. Listen/Watch HERE

    Whether watering a blooming relationship with love or nurturing their collection of succulents and snake plants, the song is an anthem for and about the special plant moms in our lives!

    Driven by Shareef’s evocative rap-sung verses, the track deploys a bouncy bassline, earworm hook, and energetic vocals that’ll have you dancing all day, in combination with vibrant synths to provide a club-like feel for the rooftop and dancefloor weekends we’re all needing this summer.

    Sharing on the new single, Shareef states: “During the pandemic, I would scroll through my feed on social media and see all of these beautiful plants being cared for by so many beautiful women. The concept immediately struck me and I put together the song idea. I sent it over to Pool, they liked where it was going and the rest was history.”

    Pool Cosby collectively shares: "We've played a few shows with Shareef over the years and have always wanted to link on some music. The timing finally worked out and we are excited to hop back in the studio for some more tracks."

    First hitting the scene with his infectiously nostalgic funk album, Cooking Something, singer, rapper, and producer Shareef Keyes makes a welcome comeback following his 2018 project, My Mood – reinvigorated, matured yet still learning, and a new father. On a mission to become this generation’s undisputed groove king, Keyes has amassed a loyal following online and on-stage due to his standout live performances and memorable vocals. Since emerging, he has toured as a lead artist, played festivals across the U.S., and been featured on tracks with legends Ghostface Killah and Bun B, tore down the house in support of jazz-funk icon Roy Ayers, and is always cooking up genre-busting melodies likened to contemporaries like Anderson .Paak and Masego. 

    As for Pool Cosby, the trio reunites on their first solo release after their 2020 album, Day Breaks. Led by the album’s title track and standout songs, “Back” ft. Soren Bryce and “I Like You” ft. Denitia, the indie-electronic masterpiece has already accumulated 850K+ streams and praise from mxdwn, GRUNGECAKE, The Wild Honey Pie, and NYS Music.

    Day Breaks builds on their debut album, Blind Gold, with distinctive blends of jazz, hip-hop, pop, and live orchestration. Never ones to settle for good enough, Pool Cosby continues to push the envelope and expand their sound with every release.

    A sum only as good as its parts – Pool Cosby is Jacuzzi Jefferson, Kevin Kuh, and Otto Botté – a group melding diverse musical and cultural backgrounds with starry-eyed sound exploration.

    Pool Cosby has garnered over 9 million streams, been featured on sites such as DUMMY Mag, Earmilk, The Deli Magazine, and worked with notable collaborators, including Raekwon of Wu-Tang Clan and Adrianne Lenker of Big Thief. They’ve earned gold and multi-platinum plaques and a Grammy nomination through their work behind the boards, and their extensive engineering and performance credit list includes Paul Simon, 50 Cent, and Enrique Iglesias.

    In addition to the group, the members of Pool Cosby intend to release solo music this year. Notably, multidisciplinary violinist, producer, and artist Kevin Kuh will release his debut EP and a full-length record. Jacuzzi Jefferson will release three albums. Most recently, his second album of the year, moonlit, a nostalgic down-tempo instrumental, produced the hit “too close,” already accumulating over 600K streams. Finally, Otto Botté will share his debut EP, Dancing Company Vol. 1, on July 23rd.  The release follows the success of his song “Humbara,” which amassed over 100K global streams and notched support from NPR World Cafe, Latin Alt HD3, and more.

    “PLANT MOM” IS AVAILABLE ON ALL PLATFORMS ON JUNE 25TH. STREAM/SAVE HERE.

    FOLLOW SHAREEF KEYES

    Instagram (26.2k) Twitter (1.2k) Facebook (1k)

    FOLLOW POOL COSBY

    Instagram (5.2k) Facebook (2k)

  • June 3, 2021 (Los Angeles, CA) - LA-based Mexican singer-songwriter and producer MAUMAUMAU unveils the music video for "Curveball Whip Cream," the first single off his debut EP, Meow Meow Meow, which was released via AWAL on May 21st. Directed by Seth Lee, the video includes cameos from actor Dallas Liu who stars as Shuji on Hulu’s Pen15 and musician Trevor Douglas. See the video HERE and stream the EP on Spotify and Apple Music.

    On the project, Mau shares: “MEOW MEOW MEOW was intended to be my introduction to the world as MAUMAUMAU. It is a compilation of my first songs as a solo artist, and it really represents me as a songwriter and a producer. When I finished the EP, the world got hit by the pandemic, and new songs like "Mouth Breather" just spilled out of me as things became grimmer. It felt like the wrong time to release my first project. But now, it feels more relevant than ever. It is an EP about dealing with the internal dialogues we all have when dealing with ourselves all the time. It is deep but fun and playful."

    The 5-track project, which premiered via Atwood Magazine, features the recently released singles, "Curveball Whip Cream" and "Famous," as well as the previously-unreleased indie ballad “Distracted (Millenial Blues),” ambitiously experimental, “Happy,” and head-turning crossover “Alright.” An earnest project, the Meow Meow Meow is a sonically bold debut, genre-defying and reflective by nature, melancholic and vulnerable yet charismatic and upbeat, honest, and an enticingly fresh interpretation of overcoming the self-defeating internal dialogues we face daily.

    The debut solo project by Mauricio Jimenez arrives as his 2020 debut single, “Mouth Breather,” a song about the anxieties of life during the Covid-19 pandemic, surpasses 65K Spotify streams. Last year, Mau also released “Heartbreak Police,” a commentary on police brutality, and opened 2021 with “B!l!ngval,” catching the early attention of Medium’s Authority Magazine, BIZZARRE, Get Some Mag, Urban Latino, and Humankind Zine, who commented, “MAUMAUMAU is an endeavor made to last.”

    "A visceral and vulnerable debut EP that beats to the tune of its own drum" (Atwood) – MAUMAUMAU's must-hear debut project, Meow Meow Meow, is out now. See the tracklist:

    Meow Meow Meow – EP Tracklist

    1. Curveball Whip Cream

    2. Famous

    3. Distracted

    4. Alright

    5. Happy

    About MAUMAUMAU

    MAUMAUMAU is a solo endeavor by Mauricio Jimenez. At its core, the project strives to encourage the underdog, to make people dance and feel feelings. Mau is not afraid to explore the world's darker side; he keeps it real while inspiring positivity. Imbued with a spectrum of influences ranging from 90s pop-rock to COIN, Gorillaz, MGMT, AJR, Oliver Tree, Tame Impala, and others, MAUMAUMAU’s genre-bending sound, witty lyricism, and unforgettable vocals will stick with you and have you coming back for more.

    In addition to his solo work, Jimenez is also the lead vocalist of Night Lights, the LA indie trio that has accumulated millions of streams since emerging in 2016, shared the stage with the likes of Lemaitre, Joy Wave, Great Good Fine OK, Mako, The Score, and Mob Rich, and been featured on Billboard, Earmilk, NPR, IndieNation, and Spotify’s Fresh Finds, New Music Friday, Global Viral, and Viral USA playlists.

    Follow MAUMAUMAU: Facebook • Instagram • Twitter • Spotify • Apple Music

  • May 25, 2021 (Brooklyn, NY) Brooklyn-based neo-soul singer-songwriter Kristen Merritt is releasing her first single and music video of the new year, “I’m Done.” The song, which is available now on all streaming platforms, marks a stunning return for the rising artist with more outstanding releases and a project on the way. STREAM/BUY HERE.

    Heartfelt and soulful, Merritt scorches with her poignant lyricism and passionate delivery. It’s the rising the artist at her most vulnerable and cathartic, which is captured perfectly with each jazz-tinged inflection and mesmerizing line, as she finds her voice and freedom.

    “I’m Done” is the beginning of a must-follow new era for the Detroit native that will demonstrate the breadth of her powerful artistry and ability to dissect and interpret our most intimate emotions from a relatable and personal perspective.

    Sharing on the new single, Kristen states: "My hope is that "I'm Done" becomes the anthem of the person who has both feet out the door and wants to leave their former partner with a memorable goodbye. I want it to serve as the Millennial/Gen Z equivalent of Erykah Badu's “Tyrone,” where the goodbye is short, direct, and permanent (and also a little humorous at points to cut the mounting tension).”

    Since emerging in 2019 with her debut EP, Spectrum, Kristen Merritt’s storytelling has been the clear driving force at the heart of her craft. Inspired by some of the greats, from Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, and Jill Scott to contemporaries like H.E.R., Daniel Caesar, and others, Kristen creates music with a nostalgic twist and modern warmth.

    DOWNLOAD PRESS ASSETS (Photo credit: Marissa Yates)

    Last year, Kristen unveiled three singles, “Thyme,” “Never Again,” and “Ending.” The latter song premiered on The Auricular and received Spotify editorial playlist support on Fresh Finds: The Wave, while “Never Again” and “Thyme” received editorial support on New from NYC: R&B and Soul and New from NYC: Indie, respectively. Already accumulating over 32,000 streams and with more on the way, Kristen Merritt is an artist you can’t miss.

    About KRISTEN MERRITT

    Simple, Silly, Soulful –– Kristen Merritt is a must-hear neo-soul artist. Detroit native raised a little bit of everywhere else, Merritt has delighted crowds in many settings from intimate clubs and lounges to larger festival-style events. As a solo artist, Kristen has found her sound in the self-coined “high-key” (high energy) neo-soul genre, with occasional funk and soulful pop influences, telling a powerful story with every song she gives her unique flavor to, while also discovering herself with each release.

    Kristen finds her musical roots in groups such as Take Six, and neo-soul greats such as Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu and Jill Scott. These artists defined their genres in terms of their soulful musical compositions and lyrical storytelling ability, both elements in which Kristen takes great inspiration from when creating her own music. Newer inspirations of hers include artists such as Daniel Caesar, Jacob Collier, Hope Tala and H.E.R.

    Her musical journey in NYC started from humble beginnings, without prospects on the horizon but with a guitar strapped to her back and big dreams gleaming in her eyes. In the few years leading up to the pandemic, Kristen hit the pavement running, scooping up local performance slots and securing open mics, building her confidence onstage while developing her sound and voice. While in the process of attempting to create other projects, Kristen found herself returning to other pieces she was working on in the background that felt more raw, intimate and worth exploring. The culmination of those efforts will soon be shared!

    Follow KRISTEN MERRITT: Facebook • Instagram • Twitter • Spotify • Apple Music

  • Los Angeles, CA (May 21, 2021) Today, LA-based Mexican singer-songwriter and producer MAUMAUMAU unveils his debut EP, Meow Meow Meow, via AWAL – listen on Spotify and Apple Music.

    On the project, Mau shares: “MEOW MEOW MEOW was intended to be my introduction to the world as MAUMAUMAU. It is a compilation of my first songs as a solo artist, and it really represents me as a songwriter and a producer. When I finished the EP, the world got hit by the pandemic, and new songs like "Mouth Breather" just spilled out of me as things became grimmer. It felt like the wrong time to release my first project. But now, it feels more relevant than ever. It is an EP about dealing with the internal dialogues we all have when dealing with ourselves all the time. It is deep but fun and playful."

    The 5-track project, which premiered via Atwood Magazine, features the recently released singles, "Curveball Whip Cream" and "Famous," as well as the previously-unreleased indie ballad “Distracted (Millenial Blues),” ambitiously experimental, “Happy,” and head-turning crossover “Alright.” An earnest project, the Meow Meow Meow is a sonically bold debut, genre-defying and reflective by nature, melancholic and vulnerable yet charismatic and upbeat, honest, and an enticingly fresh interpretation of overcoming the self-defeating internal dialogues we face daily.

    The debut solo project by Mauricio Jimenez arrives as his 2020 debut single, “Mouth Breather,” a song about the anxieties of life during the Covid-19 pandemic, surpasses 65K Spotify streams. Last year, Mau also released “Heartbreak Police,” a commentary on police brutality, and opened 2021 with “B!l!ngval,” catching the early attention of Medium’s Authority Magazine, BIZZARRE, Get Some Mag, Urban Latino, and Humankind Zine, who commented, “MAUMAUMAU is an endeavor made to last.”

    "A visceral and vulnerable debut EP that beats to the tune of its own drum" (Atwood) – MAUMAUMAU's must-hear debut project, Meow Meow Meow, is out now. See the tracklist:

    Meow Meow Meow – EP Tracklist

    1. Curveball Whip Cream

    2. Famous

    3. Distracted

    4. Alright

    5. Happy

    Follow MAUMAUMAU: Facebook • Instagram • Twitter • Spotify • Apple Music

    About MAUMAUMAU

    MAUMAUMAU is a solo endeavor by Mauricio Jimenez. At its core, the project strives to encourage the underdog, to make people dance and feel feelings. Mau is not afraid to explore the world's darker side; he keeps it real while inspiring positivity. Imbued with a spectrum of influences ranging from 90s pop-rock to COIN, Gorillaz, MGMT, AJR, Oliver Tree, Tame Impala, and others, MAUMAUMAU’s genre-bending sound, witty lyricism, and unforgettable vocals will stick with you and have you coming back for more.

    In addition to his solo work, Jimenez is also the lead vocalist of Night Lights, the LA indie trio that has accumulated millions of streams since emerging in 2016, shared the stage with the likes of Lemaitre, Joy Wave, Great Good Fine OK, Mako, The Score, and Mob Rich, and been featured on Billboard, Earmilk, NPR, IndieNation, and Spotify’s Fresh Finds, New Music Friday, Global Viral, and Viral USA playlists.

  • February 2021 release “Sunshine” surpasses 500K streams

    Harrisburg, PA (May 11) – Breakout bedroom pop artist Shawn Mathews returns with a new single, “Honest,” a genre-bending track fueled by warm summer vibes and his honest feelings for his lover.

    “Honest” follows the February release of Shawn’s single, “Sunshine,” which, upon its release, achieved placements on Spotify’s editorial playlists: Good Vibes, Young & Free, Study Break, Fresh Finds: Pop, Fresh Finds, and Jasmine. His first release of the year, “Sunshine,” has become the rising artist’s first song to surpass 500K global streams. On his latest release, Shawn delves deeper into the elements that make his music inescapable and captivating. “Honest” is led by a fun, groovy bassline, funky guitar chords, earworm lyrics, and upbeat pop sensibilities. The track has a vibrant, laid-back vibe that will make you want to get up and dance along, with flowing, fresh-cut grass. Full of warmth and good vibes, it has all the freshness of summer love.

    Cutting through the distinct soundscape are Mathews’s smooth and effortlessly on-point vocals. The hook of the song is filled with multiple layers of instrumentation, chopped vocals, and tight background harmonies.

    Sharing on the single, Shawn states: “One big part of my life this last year has been my relationship with my girlfriend. Our relationship was great pre-pandemic but once the pandemic hit I feel like it allowed for her and I to have more time for one another and in turn just strengthening our relationship. This song basically just expresses all these things I feel and have felt for her throughout our relationship. You would think that spending so much time with a person would make you sick of them, but in my case I feel like the pandemic has brought us closer together and I’m super grateful for that.”

    Shawn Mathews’s latest singles follow a spectrum of releases that channel diverse influences, like Dominic Fike, Khalid, and Omar Apollo, while demonstrating his versatility as a creator and collaborator. He kicked off 2020 with the emo-rap-infused “Down Bad” and the synth-laden “Higher” featuring Kye, leading to the release of his debut EP, Blue, via VALE Records. Shawn also shared a hyperpop-inspired single, “Bored,” led by a booming bass, edited vocals, and grand synths. Wrapping a strong year, the 21-year-old shared “Wanna Be” and “Next To Me” landing him articles and placements on Lyrical Lemonade, Fashionably Early, Early Rising, and more. With a future as bright as his track “Sunshine” and more music on the way, Shawn Mathews is one of this year’s artists to watch.

    About Shawn Mathews

    Shawn Mathews is a 21-year-old multi-talented musician blending cross-genre elements to channel a distinctive sound, fusing pop, indie, and R&B. Powered by strong basslines, memorable guitar riffs, innovative instrumentals, and vibrant synths, Shawn’s music is as chameleonic as the elements influencing him to create. Born and based in Pennsylvania, the young artist first emerged in 2019 with singles such as “Bad Habit” and “Emotional,” later signing with his college’s label, VALE, in 2020, for the release of his debut EP, Blue. Towards the end of 2020, Mathews released two singles, “Wanna Be” and “Next To Me,” landing him articles and placements on Lyrical Lemonade, Fashionably Early, Early Rising, and more.  

    At the beginning of 2021, Mathews released his first single of the year, “Sunshine.” The single was featured on several Spotify editorial playlists, including Good Vibes, Young & Free, Study Break, Fresh Finds: Pop, Fresh Finds, and Jasmine. Matthews’ latest single, “Honest,” arrives May 11th.

  • December 16, 2020 (New York, NY) – Emerging singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Shawn Mathews is back with a new single, “Next To Me.” Romantic and mellow; the track Linds the 20-year-old indie/bedroom pop artist longing to have his love interest by his side, a sentiment especially relatable as a pandemic-stricken cuffing season approaches.

    Check out “Next To Me” on all streaming platforms here.

    Highlighted by an unforgettable hook, earworm chorus, and Shawn’s evocative vocals, “Next To Me” dives into a nostalgic indie-rock soundscape led by Mathews on electric guitar, bass, and live drum kit. “I don’t wanna be / just another guy / I just wanna, just wanna be / everything you like,” he croons over the laidback instrumentation before asserting, “I want you, baby / right next to me / don’t waste my time / if you plan to leave.” Pensive and vulnerable, Shawn once again unveils his knack for catchy songwriting, following his buzzing single, “Wanna Be,” which garnered support from A1234, Acid Stag, Fashionably Early, Little Dose of Indie, Banger of the Day, Early Rising, AlMitude, and more.

    This year, Shawn Mathews has unveiled a spectrum of releases that channel diverse inLluences, like Dominic Fike, Khalid, and Omar Apollo, while demonstrating his versatility as a creator and collaborator. Kicking off the year with the emo-rap-infused “Down Bad” and the synth-laden “Higher” featuring Kye, Shawn’s tracks led to the release of his debut EP, Blue, via VALE Records. Shawn also shared a hyperpop-inspired single, “Bored,” led by a booming bass, chopped vocals, and grand synths.

    With more music on the way in early 2021, Shawn Mathews is a new artist you can’t miss.