We Speak Music

Softly purring vocals and pensive beauty on new Michele Ducci single ‘It’s Hard to be Easily Loved’

Published

5 days ago

November 29, 2024

Don Reed

Following the release of his debut solo album, ‘SIVE’, in June, Michele Ducci, former member of dance-pop duo M+A and and Hip Hop duo Santii, returned to the studio to tape some new live recordings of alternative versions of several tracks from ‘SIVE’ plus a few new songs, including new single ‘It’s Hard to be Easily Loved’.

The single is out now, accompanied by a video of Ducci performing the song against an atmospheric backdrop of watercolour paintings created by Ducci and Letizia Mandolesi.

Like a warm blanket on a foggy autumn evening, ‘It’s Hard to be Easily Loved’ envelops you in Ducci’s softly purring vocals, backed by sparsely strummed nylon guitar. The chorus ramps up the warmth with the addition of Letizia Mandolesi’s softly vocalised ‘Aaahs’. Yet another pensive beauty from Michele Ducci’s impressive solo catalogue.

Says Ducci, “I was improvising with the nylon guitar while it was raining and slowly It’s Hard to Be Easily Loved began to form. It’s the first song among other unpublished songs that I’m doing live and that will be released at the beginning of next year.

Being loved or understood, at times, seems to work like those strange crossings that are the changes of the season, or like falling asleep. It can be very difficult and seems to happen, if it happens and when it happens, out of time. So every expectation appears to be a useless expense. A nylon and paw-legged organ song came out of it that reminds me of the yellow fog that makes the paraeidoly of a cat in the poem The Love Song of A.J. Prufrock by Elliot:

“Slipped by the terrace, made a sudden leap,

And seeing that it was a soft October night,

Curled once about the house, and fell asleep.”

We Speak Fashion

Embracing Barrel Jeans: Popular Philly Boutique’s Secret Tips!

Published

3 hours ago

December 4, 2024

Yahne' Jackson

Barrel jeans have taken the fashion world by storm, offering a unique silhouette that tapers at the top and bottom, while being widest near the knees. This design creates a distinctive look that has sparked debate across the internet. While some love the bold, fashion-forward statement, others are hesitant due to their bow-legged appearance. However, when stylerrd correctly, barrel jeans can be a high-fashion choice that elevates any winter wardrobe.

We had the pleasure of catching up with Tykeia “Keia” Chesson, the owner of the well-loved TC Unlimited Boutique located in the Chestnut Hill area of Philadelphia, PA to get her expert take on styling barrel jeans. “While barrel jeans might not be everyone’s cup of tea, that’s perfectly okay,” Keia shares with a knowing smile. She emphasizes that fashion is all about personal style and confidence, encouraging fashion enthusiasts to embrace what makes them feel fabulous.

Keia’s Top Tips for Styling Barrel Jeans

Highlight the Top Taper
- To truly appreciate the unique silhouette of barrel jeans, it’s essential to expose the top taper. Whether you opt for a slightly cropped sweater or tuck in your top, these jeans shine when their shape is visible. While oversized clothing remains trendy, showing off the jeans’ silhouette adds a touch of sophistication to the look.
Choose Shapes that Flatter
- Fashion is all about personal preference, so choose shapes that flatter your body and style. If you’re inclined towards more form-fitting tops to balance the voluminous jeans, go for it. However, Keia loves an approach that plays with texture and shapes. A top that adds contrast and complements the jeans can truly make the outfit stand out.
Embrace the Relaxed Look
- Barrel jeans offer a relaxed vibe that can be dressed up or down. The key is not to overthink it. Wear them in a way that feels authentic to you. Fashion is about expressing individuality, so find a style that suits your personality and wear it with confidence.

About TC Unlimited Boutique:

Established in 2005, TC Unlimited Boutique is the brainchild of Tykeia “Keia” Chesson, whose lifelong dream was to own a fashion haven. After years of operating as a mobile and online merchant, Keia opened her boutique in Chestnut Hill, PA in 2016. Since then, TC Unlimited has been a beacon of style and elegance in the community, offering personalized styling services that cater to each client’s unique fashion needs.

TC Unlimited Boutique cherishes their fabulous customers and attribute their success to continued support and love they have received over the years. They’ve had the privilege of connecting, styling, and sharing countless special moments with their clients over the years — even through the pandemic over Facebook Live which is still popular today.

For personalized styling services or to explore our latest collections, reach out to Keia and the team at [email protected] or call 215-247-1456. They can’t wait to help you discover your unique style!