Lionide Returns to Hollywood FM Playlist with Reggae Anthems That Speak to the Soul

We’re thrilled to announce that reggae master Lionide’s new singles, “Animal Farm” and “Born,” have joined our A-List Playlist! Tune in to experience these two reggae treasures, played back-to-back as part of a special REGGAE DOUBLEPLAY at 4:30 PM Pacific USA time for the next month.

Animal Farm

“Freedom of speech is a good thing. But you better watch what you say…”
This powerful track highlights the ongoing struggle for free expression in every corner of the world. With its poignant message, Lionide urges listeners to stand up for those who can’t speak out.

Born

“Don’t judge me by the acts of man. Judge me if you must by my own action. I am not a stereotype.”
Staying true to reggae’s roots as protest music, Lionide delivers a heartfelt anthem of individuality and resilience. Wrapped in a smooth, soulful reggae vibe, “Born” carries a message as timeless as the genre itself.

Don’t miss these thought-provoking gems on our playlist!

“There is a greater purpose to music than love, fun, and party. Music is wholesome. Music represents life, and every moment of each life can be expressed through music. Music is at the center of humanity. It uplifts us, soothes us, and helps us cope. Music can be our refuge, our motivation, our power. Let us uplift our world with music.”Lionide

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Mabena’s Heartfelt Single ‘Special Needs Child’ Dedicates Space to SEN Families on Hollywood’s A-List

We’re thrilled to announce that Mabena’s uplifting new single, Special Needs Child, has been added to our A-List Playlist! Tune in to hear it day and night, with a special POWERPLAY spotlight at 4 PM Pacific USA time for the entire month.

Mabena is an upcoming independent song writer and Artist based in the UK. Her songs are about her faith and her experience as a special education needs (SEN)mum. Mabena is therefore an avid advocate for inclusion for SEN families. Her first single “Delighted” was released in January 2023. Subsequent singles were “My very help”, “Touch me” “Special needs child”, “Special needs child VEVO ” and Amazing grace.

Mabena’s 4th single, “special needs child” narrates the barriers and stigma experienced by SEN families and this song has been dedicated to SEN families, support workers, professionals, mainstreams schools and special schools. Her 5th music video of “Special Needs Child” which can be found on her YouTube channel (Mabena.2023) features emotive images of both SEN parents and children.

Outside music Mabena is a mum of 3 children under 16. She also works fulltime for a local authority. She’s attained 2 master’s degrees and a BA, is a dedicated member of her local church, a member of the national Autistic society, and other charitable groups.

YouTube: @mabena.2023

Instagram @mabena208

Facebook- Beatrice Abena

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Ana & Gene Team Up with Bob De Luca for the Irresistible ‘Midnight Dream’ on the Hollywood A-List

We’re excited to share that Bob De Luca’s new single, “Midnight Dream,” has officially joined our A-List Playlist! This captivating blues rock gem is rich with melodic grooves, soulful guitar riffs, and a rhythm section that drives its irresistible energy. De Luca’s deep, powerful vocals channel a Jim Morrison and The Doors vibe, delivering a warm, authentic blues essence. Produced by the renowned duo Ana & Gene, this standout track is a must-hear. Tune in to catch “Midnight Dream” on our playlist and as a special BLUES ROCK POWERPLAY at 9:30 PM Pacific time all month long!

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Bob De Luca has been playing Electric Guitar, Singing and Writing songs for over 50 years. His favorite Genre to play is Traditional Chicago Blues in which he patterns himself after. His Chicago Blues influences in his life has been Buddy Guy, Muddy Waters and Willie Dixon to name a few.

He has performed in New York City, New York, Nashville Tennessee and his hometown Chicago Illinois, USA. He has been lately playing at local clubs in the Chicago land areas and surrounding suburbs.

Bob De Luca has newly signed on with Eugana Records LLC to release his new hot single “Midnight Dream”. It is owned by the famouse dynamic music artist duo Ana & Gene.

Bob De Luca‘s new single is also produced by Ana & Gene and Ana is a featured artist on it. So be on the look out for more original Chicago Modern Blues by this amazing artist.

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Soulful Throwback Meets Modern Vibes in Motivation’s ‘Best Time of Year’ on Hollywood FM Christmas A-List

We are very pleased to announce that the wonderful new soulful Christmas single ‘Best Time of Year’ from New York’s “MOTIVATION” is now on our A-List Christmas Playlist. Listen out for it night and day on the playlist + it will also be played daily as a special CHRISTMAS 2024 POWERPLAY at 12:30 PM Midday Pacific throughout Christmas into the new year.

The brand new single from ‘MOTIVATION’ is a warm soulful Christmas gem entitled ‘Best Time of Year’. This heartwarming Christmas single exudes soul and timeless charm, blending melodic, uplifting vocals with a cozy glow. With a sleek groove reminiscent of Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney’s The Girl Is Mine, it features polished production, lively brass arrangements, groovy drums, and soul-stirring harmonies that perfectly capture the festive spirit.

“MOTIVATION” is an exciting group of musicians from the one and only New York! The group’s very existence proves the enduring sustainability of a musical genre that is defined thusly: “Anything that is from an earlier era and looked upon with HIGH REGARD OR RESPECT” (Urban Dictionary).

The band Motivation and their music epitomize the confluence of YESTERDAY’S SOUL (Old School Soul) with TODAY’S CHANGING AUDIENCE MUSICAL TASTE! The band works very hard to remain relevant for today’s listeners.

The guiding force behind the band’s journey to remain relevant falls on the shoulders of band member, co-founder, and producer Steven Tynes. The group was founded in Springfield Gardens, Queens, New York. The band has persevered through personnel and band name changes, including the band Solid Core.

Motivation’s present personnel lineup is:

  • Melvin P.K. Shaw: All Keyboards, Lead & Background Vocals
  • Eric Aikens: Drums, Lead & Background Vocals
  • Steven Tynes: Guitar, Background Vocals

“We know Old School because we were there.”
So states the band as they continue their journey today.

They have recorded for Delite Records, reaching Top 40 success with the singles CRAZY DAZE and “Please Don’t Say No”. Now it’s time to enjoy their sensational and soulful Christmas single ‘Best Time of Year’.

Cover Classics Perfected: Boston Aires’ Tribute to Van Morrison Lands on Hollywood FM A-List

We are very excited to announce that ‘Brown Eyed Girl’ and ‘Crazy Love’ from the incredible Boston Aires are now featured as a special DOUBLEPLAY on our A-List Playlist. Tune in to hear both of these cool Van Morrison cover songs on the playlist + hear them spun daily as a special DAILY COVER DOUBLEPLAY at 7:30 PM Pacific USA time for the next month.

Boston Aires are known for their distinctive blend of folky, acoustic pop, reminiscent of bands like The Beautiful South. With their well-crafted songs, timeless production, and sweet, captivating vocals, they’ve garnered a loyal following. The band has released several singles on Spotify and other major platforms, consistently delivering engaging new music.

More Afrobeats: Debra Can’s ‘Bad Man’ and ‘Adura’ Feature as Powerplay on Hollywood FM

We are pleased to announce that the hot new Afro-Pop singles ‘Bad Man’ and ‘Adura’ from ‘Debra Can’ are now on our prestigious Daily A-List Playlist. Listen out for them night and day on the playlist + they will both also be played daily as a special NEW MUSIC DOUBLE PREMIERE at 12 PM Midday Pacific throughout the new year until March.

Debra Can: The Afro-Pop Sensation Bridging Generations

Debra Can, born Oyekan Yetunde Deborah, is a name that’s quickly rising in the world of Afro-Pop. Signed to New-Town Record, this Lagos-born artist is carving out her space in the music industry with a style that resonates with both the young and the young at heart. Inspired by the iconic voices of Brandy and Toni Braxton, Debra Can’s music echoes the deep emotions and soulful vibes of her idols, all while infusing contemporary Afro-Pop rhythms that speak to today’s diverse audience.

Her online presence is steadily growing, with an impressive 28.2k followers on YouTube, 8.9k on TikTok, 20.7k on Instagram, and 2.6k on Facebook. Debra Can’s music is not just heard; it’s felt by over 1.2 million listeners on Spotify, alongside dedicated audiences on Apple Music and Audiomack, where her streams continue to climb.

With 2 EPs and 2 singles already under her belt, Debra Can is no stranger to the studio. Her work is a testament to her dedication to her craft and her ability to connect with listeners on a deep level. Her performances, such as her standout appearance at the Omo Better Concert, showcase her dynamic stage presence and the electric energy she brings to her shows.

Follow Debra Can’s journey on social media @debracanmusic across TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Snap, and Thread, and @debracan on YouTube. Stay tuned as she continues to make waves in the Afro-Pop scene, bridging the gap between generations with every beat.

Folk-Rock Favorite Charlie Harris Releases Heartfelt Track “Catching Rainbows” on the Hollywood A-List Playlist

We are very pleased to announce that the delightful and melodic new folk pop single ‘Catching Rainbows’ from ‘Charlie Harris ‘ is now on our A-List Playlist. Listen out for it night and day on the playlist for the next month.

South African Singer-Songwriter Charlie Harris Releases New Single “Catching Rainbows” from Digital Dust (Side B)

South African folk-rock artist Charlie Harris, known as the singer-songwriter of the duo Keep Guessing, has released his latest single, “Catching Rainbows,” a standout track from his debut album Digital Dust (Side B). Following the success of Side A’s haunting first single, “Charlie No Face,” Side B dives deeper into Harris’s world of lyrical storytelling, introspective themes, and a search for meaning within life’s most fleeting moments.

“Produced by Robin Walsh, ‘Catching Rainbows” captures Harris’s poetic sensibility, exploring the allure of chasing dreams and embracing life’s unexpected twists. With a gentle, rhythmic melody, the song unfolds like a personal journal, conveying the bittersweet moments of growth and self-discovery. Harris’s earthy vocals are laced with both nostalgia and hope, grounding the song’s message in a place of authenticity that listeners have come to love from him. “The song is about feeling that if I could just pass on some happiness I would. Metaphorically speaking catching rainbows and passing it on to you! Inspired by me wanting to make those close to me as happy as possible”

Hailing from Johannesburg, Harris has carved his path as a songwriter through stories that resonate on both personal and universal levels. He first gained attention with Digital Dust (Side A), featuring “Charlie No Face,” inspired by the story of Raymond Robinson, a man who became a local legend after a disfiguring accident. With Side B, Harris continues to bring forth songs that were almost lost to time but now find life in his carefully crafted debut project.

Reflecting on the theme of Digital Dust, Harris explains, “This album is like a collection of memories, fragments that might have faded away if not for this record. ‘Catching Rainbows’ is one of those pieces—it’s about grasping for something intangible, something that might not last but is worth the chase.”

Listeners can find “Catching Rainbows” and Digital Dust (Side B) on all major streaming platforms On 15 November 2024.

Follow Charlie Harris for updates and music videos:

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New Music Alert: Juliana Hale’s ‘You + Me’ Breaks Chains of Heartbreak

JJ Entertainment proudly announces the release of Juliana Hale’s powerful new single, “You + Me.” The track is available on November 15th and may be her boldest one yet, taking on the emotional turbulence of a toxic relationship.

Known for her empowering songs like “Good On My Own,” “Cry My Summer Away,” and “Not For You,” she’s back with another fierce, upbeat anthem that blends emotional lyrics with moody, seductive beats, designed to resonate with anyone who’s ever felt mistreated by their lover. Co-written by Juliana Hale, Christian Rizzo, and Catt McCreary and produced by Christian Rizzo, the song tells the story of someone who’s finally breaking free from their partner’s destructive behavior.

In discussing the track, Hale shares the emotional depth of the song: “‘You + Me’ is a sonic exploration of a harmful relationship, with the beat mimicking the sound of tiptoeing around eggshells with a person who changes at the drop of a hat. As with my other music, it is an empowering take on this universal experience, saying, ‘Well, if this is how you’re going to treat me, then I’m out.’”

Hale masterfully shows how an unhealthy relationship builds and escalates. In the beginning, tentative and unsure lyrics like: “Lately we’ve been on edge / You’re tryna push me off it / Tiptoeing on a tightrope, lead with your eyes closed, how far will this go?” depict someone who’s not sure what’s going to happen with the relationship. But by the end of the song, Hale has decided – enough is enough. She demonstrates this clearly: “You plus me equals all these problems / Just keep dragging me to rock bottom / You plus me equals all these problems / And I’m done tryna solve ‘em now.”

Additionally, Hale reminds listeners of the importance of having friends and family when leaving a damaging relationship. She says, “The violinist on the track is my brother, Oliver Levi, so the family connection makes this song that much more special to me. If you have ever been treated like a human punching bag, then this song is for you!”

With this new single, Hale proves she’s able to balance emotional depth with confidence, introspection, and empowerment. Perfect for fans of Sabrina Carpenter, Dua Lipa, Meghan Trainor, and Billie Eilish, “You + Me” is a song for anyone who’s ever survived a dysfunctional relationship.

Juliana Hale is an indie-pop singer-songwriter with an evocative voice, a sound that transcends genres, and an ability to bring stories to life in vivid detail. She’s a true Renaissance artist, combining her multi-instrumental and vocal abilities with a love of visual arts to create an unforgettable, immersive experience. Hale transparently connects with her fans in a unique way, building a deeply engaged base of supporters by sharing her chronic health struggles and creating a positive community.

Juliana has opened for Snoop Dogg, reached over 2 million streams and views on both Spotify and YouTube, charted at #6 on iTunes with her ballad “Head in the Clouds,” and is starring in an independent film titled Hope and a Future. With a steady stream of content expected for 2024, Juliana is well on her way to becoming a fixture in modern music.

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Find out more about Juliana Hale at julianahale.com. Stay in touch with her on
Instagram and YouTube @JulianaHale and on TikTok and X @thejulianahale.

‘America is a Miracle’ from ‘Simon Jegzs’ continues to soar on Hollywood’s A-List

We’re excited to share that Simon Jegzs’ powerful and melodic new single, “America is a Miracle,” continues to ride high on our esteemed Daily A-List Playlist. Be sure to listen day and night as this inspiring track enjoys a prominent POWERPLAY slot every day at 3 PM Pacific USA time for the next two months.

Simon Jegzs, also known as Simon Ajegi, is an American artist whose passion for songwriting began in his childhood. In addition to his work as a singer and songwriter, Simon has an extensive background in broadcasting, having served as both a radio and television host. He studied Journalism, Communication, and Media in college and has a deep love for sports, particularly soccer, football, and basketball, which he played during his youth.

Driven by a desire to share his music with a wider audience, Simon recorded “America is a Miracle” 10 years ago, a tribute to the American dream. After refining the track, he recently released it to the world. Simon has crafted a distinctive genre known as soul pop, merging elements of soul and pop music. His goal is to connect with a global audience and inspire meaningful change through his music.

The Rise of ‘Ave Fénix’: Vanessa Mini’s New Single Captures Hearts and Hollywood A-List Status

We are thrilled to announce that Vanessa Mini’s haunting, exotic and captivating new single ‘Ave Fénix’ has earned a spot on our A-List Playlist. You can catch it on the playlist + it will also be a special INTERNATIONAL POWERPLAY at 10 PM Pacific time daily throughout the next month!

Vanessa Mini has recently released a new work: Ave Fénix. Vanessa Mini has just dropped a new studio single named Ave Fénix. This release is very energetic because it showcases some awesome dynamics, as well as the artist’s ability to seamlessly unleash creativity and combine different influences into something that’s refreshing and quite one-of-a-kind. The track combines electronic soundscapes and trap-inspired beats with unique Spanish vocals, bringing a truly deep and impactful edge to the mix. Ave Fénix is a mesmerizing song that showcases the artist’s passion for making music that’s far more than just entertainment. We’re entering the territory of deeper self-expression, as the artist is eager to connect with her audience. Ave Fénix is a perfect example of this because the song is meaningful and expressive (while still remaining catchy and accessible for most types of listeners out there!)

The song has a truly inspiring sound. The lyrics recall the concept of the phoenix rising again from its own ashes. The idea of rebirth is all about facing challenges with a fresh start and coming back from struggles even stronger than before. While the song has a very melodic taste and a soothing quality, the production is also very modern and detailed. The sound of the drums, in particular, is reminiscent of the modern wave of trap, while the vocals, adorned with some striking effects, have a very contemporary twist as well while remaining very emotional and timeless. In other words, Ave Fénix stands out for its modern sound, but although the production is quite polished, it is never overproduced, allowing a lot of wonderfully organic and “human” elements to really add liveliness to the mix despite the electronic elements being so predominant within the context of this arrangement.

Photos by Carolina Iglesias Hair stylist: Francesco Mancusi Location: Shabby Chic Rooms (Albavilla-Como)

Like the phoenix rising again, Ave Fénix is a song that instills hope and resilience in its listeners. It’s a powerful message, particularly in these tense and challenging times. The singer’s heartfelt vocal performance brings out the emotional depth of the song, creating a piece of music that is not just entertaining, but deeply moving. Find out more about Vanessa Mini and listen to Ave Fénix. This release comes highly recommended to people who enjoy the sound of artists such as Halsey, Camila Cabello, and Karol G, only to name a few.

Vanessa Mini has released a new studio single called Ave Fénix, which showcases her ability to combine electronic soundscapes and trap-inspired beats with unique Spanish vocals. The song is meaningful and expressive, with lyrics that recall the concept of the phoenix rising again from its own ashes, symbolizing rebirth and resilience. The production is modern and detailed, while the vocals convey a heartfelt and emotional depth. Ave Fénix is a powerful and inspiring song that instills hope and resilience in its listeners.

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A New Era of Diversity: Lachi Unveils ‘Mad Different’ Series and Captivating Debut Video

Renowned singer, songwriter, and disability rights advocate Lachi is commanding the spotlight with her groundbreaking series, Mad Different, and the dazzling debut performance video, Out of the Dark. Mad Different is an innovative concert series designed to amplify underrepresented voices through powerful music and storytelling. This first installment, Out of the Dark, highlights Lachi’s artistry with high-production visuals and compelling narratives, reshaping perceptions of disability, talent, and activism.

Mad Different features an intimate series of unplugged concerts filmed at Amazon Music Studios in New York City, as well as behind-the-scenes footage and artist interviews, offering a rare and intimate glimpse into the lives and artistry of these intersectional artists. It focuses on diverse experiences intersecting with Black/Brown, Queer, Trans, Neurodivergent, and Disability identities.

Lachi joins forces with a diverse array of world-class female musicians and celebrated co-artists, each bringing their unique perspective to the stage. From non-binary neurodivergent artist Medusa and deaf performer Indi Robinson, the series promises a rich exploration of identity and belonging through their original songs.

“As a Black woman, I was told to keep my head down to avoid being perceived as aggressive or a mad Black woman.As a person with a disability, I was forced to fit in. This led to me (and so many like me) hiding my spark, my truth, my soul. The world wasn’t built for people like me. I’m mad, and it drives me. I’m different, and it elevates me. It’s time we celebrate that – our mad, our different.” – Lachi

Mad Different is more than a series of performances; it’s a community-driven cultural movement. Fans are invited to follow the creation of each performance and engage with the artists through TikTok, YouTube, and other social media platforms. By sparking conversations about identity and difference through dynamic social media engagement and partnerships, the series fosters an inclusive dialogue. Using the hashtag #MadDifferent, fans can share their own stories of self-acceptance, creating a space where differences are celebrated, and everyone is encouraged to connect and contribute to this growing community.

The first single, Out of the Dark, will be released on October 25th, just in time for Halloween. This haunting, jazz-inspired track delves into themes of self-liberation and the journey of embracing one’s authentic self, featuring Lachi alongside co-artist Medusa. Known for their avant-garde ‘revenge-pop’ style, Medusa combines thick beats, visceral melodies, and unapologetic storytelling to explore queer joy, pain, and defiance, empowering outcasts and promoting neurodiversity. A true boundary-pusher, Medusa has performed for diverse audiences, from underground venues to major stages like NYC Pride and SXSW. Fans can experience Out of the Dark across platforms, with a performance video and both acoustic and fully-produced versions available.

Upcoming releases include A Girl (November 2024), Diseducation (December 2024), and That Kinda Black (January 2025), continuing the series’ focus on identity and empowerment. Don’t miss the debut of Out of the Dark, and join the celebration of voices living their Mad Different truths.

The History of Lachi

Lachi is a critically acclaimed, award-winning artist and disability advocate, as well as the founder of RAMPD (Recording Artists and Music Professionals with Disabilities), an organization dedicated to amplifying disability culture and promoting accessibility in the music industry. Recognized as the USA Today Woman of the Year and host of PBS’ American Masters: Renegades, Lachi blends pop, electronic, and classical influences, with her work featured in outlets like Billboard and Hollywood Reporter. As a legally blind musician, Grammy Board Governor, and UN Disability Rights Advocate, Lachi champions inclusion and empowerment for people with disabilities. With a global fan base and strong social media presence, Lachi celebrates self-acceptance and authenticity, drawing from her experiences as a Black woman with a disability to inspire her music and passion for her Disability Culture community.

Listen to Out of the Dark on Spotify

Watch Out of the Dark official video here

Official Website

Film Review: The Burden of Nine Lives – A Masterclass in Revenge Thriller Cinema

Streaming on Amazon Prime this November, The Burden of Nine Lives is already being celebrated as one of the best films of the year, showcasing the raw power of vengeance and survival in a riveting revenge thriller. Directed by the award-winning filmmaker Vega Montañez, whose eye for detail and intense narratives has earned him accolades across the globe, this film delivers a masterclass in storytelling, with unforgettable characters and visuals that stick with you long after the credits roll.

The film centers on Jimmy, a resilient and deeply scarred protagonist, portrayed with magnetic intensity by Steven Staine-Fernandez. After narrowly surviving an attempt on his life that tragically ends with the loss of his cousins, Jimmy finds himself on a brutal path for justice. Summoned back from the brink of death, his mission becomes clear: exact revenge on those who wronged him. As he maneuvers through Neo Rhode City, a gritty, neon-soaked urban sprawl that practically serves as a character in its own right, the audience is thrown into an adrenaline-pumping experience that never lets up.

The visuals are a feast for the eyes, with cinematography that’s as sharp as it is stylish. The cityscape is dark and visceral, amplifying the tension and sense of danger in every frame. Montañez’s direction, combined with stellar audio design and a gripping soundtrack, keeps viewers fully immersed, balancing high-stakes action with moments of eerie calm that ramp up the suspense. Scenes of Jimmy’s cat-and-mouse pursuit of his enemies are masterfully crafted, evoking comparisons to films like John Wick and Crank but adding a unique, haunting depth that makes The Burden of Nine Lives stand out.

With a large ensemble cast, every character brings something memorable to the table, contributing to the complex and layered storyline that intertwines subplots of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption. The storytelling is intricate, with plenty of twists and turns, keeping the audience guessing while staying grounded in a deeply personal narrative that drives Jimmy’s every move.

Vega Montañez’s dedication to his craft shines through in this latest triumph. Known for his acclaimed work on The Hurt We Share, which earned multiple international awards, Montañez has solidified his status as a powerhouse director. The Burden of Nine Lives is his latest achievement, having already won Best Feature Film at the WSXA Barcelona International Awards and the prestigious Audience Award for Best Feature Film. The recent Best Feature win at the Eastern Europe Film Festival, known for its discerning panel of film industry experts, adds to the film’s impressive list of accolades, further cementing its status as a must-watch. The incredible, epic and atmospheric cinematography is by J. Cameron Davenport.

Packed with a layered storyline, breathtaking visuals, and a powerful lead performance, The Burden of Nine Lives is a masterclass in revenge thriller cinema. It’s a film that will leave you hungry for more, and we eagerly await a sequel.

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