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Raymondouu’s “Special Occasions” – A Masterful Blend of Emotion and Melody

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Raymond Zhang, better known by his artistic moniker Raymondouu, continues to carve out a distinctive space in the indie music scene with his latest single, “Special Occasions.” Known for his emotive and humor-laced approach to songwriting, Raymondouu blends his Chinese-Australian heritage into a tapestry of sound that captivates listeners through reflective lyrics and sophisticated arrangements.

A graduate of the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, Raymondouu’s ascent began with a notable performance in Triple J’s Unearthed High competition in 2020, where his track “taxi driver” showcased his potential. His debut EP fickle feelings set the stage for a promising career, and “Special Occasions” exemplifies the growth and depth of his artistry.

“Special Occasions” is a testament to Raymondouu’s skill in combining storytelling with musical innovation. The song explores the fleeting nature of romantic encounters, where brief interactions with someone spark an intense yet idealized obsession. The lyrics delve into the paradox of falling in love with an imagined persona rather than the person themselves, capturing the bittersweet essence of infatuation.

The track opens with a gentle acoustic guitar, setting a warm, inviting tone that is immediately engaging. Raymondouu’s voice, characterized by its hushed and emotive delivery, draws listeners into the introspective narrative. Halfway through, the song transitions into a more dynamic rock-focused arrangement, featuring powerful drumming and electric guitar riffs that elevate the emotional intensity. This shift in sound adds a layer of complexity, reflecting the tumultuous nature of the protagonist’s feelings.

The chorus of “Special Occasions” includes a subtle nod to The 1975, a band known for their own emotional depth and introspective lyrics. This homage highlights Raymondouu’s influences while showcasing his ability to weave these inspirations into his unique sound. The final blend of indie folk and rock elements ensures that the song remains engaging and emotionally resonant throughout its duration.

In summary, “Special Occasions” is a striking example of Raymondouu’s evolving artistry. With its thoughtful lyrics, sophisticated musical composition, and emotional resonance, the single stands as a testament to his profound songwriting skills and his ability to craft compelling musical experiences. For fans of indie music with a penchant for heartfelt and innovative soundscapes, Raymondouu’s latest release is an essential listen.

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TIHANE dances with a Python in video for wildly alive new single ‘Throw It Back’

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“An absolute tune!”- Melvin Odoom, BBC Radio 2.

TIHANE’s debut album ‘The War on Love’ is a genre-blending journey that flips the classic love song on its head—featuring romance, rage, and resilience through a sound inspired by her Polynesian Croatian roots she calls ‘Indigenous Soul’. Blending vintage soul, hypnotic grooves, and electronic textures with raw storytelling, this album explores the mysteries of life, love and healing.

Co-produced by Segnon Tiewul and TIHANE, ‘The War On Love’ features vintage record samples and rich live instrumentation, bringing together artists and producers from across the globe—including Ghana, India, Bermuda, the UK, and the US—and blending genres from R&B and Neo-Soul to AfroHouse and World Fusion. One moment you’re in a smoky jazz room steeped in golden-era soul; the next, you’re dropped into a futuristic Afro House beat flip.

The first single from the album, ‘Throw It Back,’ has dropped on VEVO with a stunning visual of TIHANE wrapped in a python snake, Polynesian dancing in a lush jungle. The track, which has picked up BBC Radio 2 and BBC 6 Music airplay, fuses exotic melodies with a strong beat and thick low end that feels sensually, spiritually, and wildly alive. Directed by TIHANE with cinematography/camera by Chris Oeurn, color grade by Cris Blyth and assistant camera operation by the song’s co-producer, Segnon Tiewul, the ‘Throw It Back’ video boasts a motley crew of adventurous creators who merge cinema with raw ceremony. 

On the single, TIHANE says; “I hadn’t produced a track in years. But one day—mid-heartbreak—I locked myself in a studio and let the pain move through me. No plans. Just pure flow. It was raw. It was sensual. It was powerful. That was the moment I realized just how much of my power I’d been giving away—like so many women do. Performing love. Proving worth. Fighting to be chosen. This song became the sound of me remembering my own pulse. The lyrics came through fast, like they’d been waiting. A feminine force—both fierce and tender—took over. She wasn’t asking. She was commanding me: back into the body, back into pleasure, back into truth. Throw It Back might sound like a dance track—and it is—but it’s also ceremonial. It’s for anyone who’s had to move through ache… and figure out how to dance in that fire.”

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TIHANE currently lives between Los Angeles and London, crafting sonic sanctuaries for those ready to feel again and rise again. The single and album follow the release of her track “Ain’t That A B!tch” last year, which got significant acclaim from Clash Magazine, EARMILK, CULTR, and more.

TIHANE’s powerhouse vocals have drawn comparisons to Amy Winehouse, Sade, Cleo Sol, and Adele—delivering the kind of soul you feel in your bones. From nostalgic melodies to her signature twist of rap-singing and percussion-driven drops, her sound is a dynamic force. She’s performed across four continents—from historic venues like L’Olympia (Paris) and Bush Hall (London) to cultural platforms like TEDx, Stamp The Wax, and BBC Introducing. Festival highlights include SXSW, Soho House NYC, Homecoming (South Africa), Nyege Nyege (Uganda), and Africa Nouveau (Kenya).

TIHANE’s debut album ‘The War on Love’ — an ode to radical tenderness— is both a personal testimony and a universal offering that invites listeners to feel deeply, move freely, and remember who they are.

Catch TIHANE performing at Pizza Express Live in London on July 22, 2025.

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