We Speak Music

Stefflon Don Announced As Apple Music’s January 2018 ‘Up Next’ Artist

Published

7 years ago

January 17, 2018

umeektv

Apple Music is excited to announce Stefflon Don as the new ‘Up Next’ artist for January 2018. The dancehall/rap artist joins the Apple Music ‘Up Next’ class of artists on the heels of her UK Top 10 single “Hurtin’ Me feat. French Montana,” latest single “Ding-A-Ling feat. Skepta” and a feature on Jax Jones & Demi Lovato’s worldwide smash “Instruction.” On January 17th, Apple Music will premiere a new documentary short film, as well as an exclusive sit-down interview with Beats 1 anchor Julie Adenuga. Later tonight, Stefflon Don will also make her U.S. national television debut on The Late Late Show with James Corden.

“Conversations with Steff are always exciting and hilarious. She doesn’t do a lot of interviews, and I learn more about her every time we talk,” said Beats 1 anchor Julie Adenuga. “She’s extremely talented, and has the ability to make any style of music she likes without losing the magic of who she is.”

Stefflon Don adds, “I am really excited to be the new ‘Up Next’ Artist. Julie, Zane, Ebro and everyone at Beats 1 have been there with me from the start, and it’s great to be the first British artist to get this support from Apple Music. Can’t wait for you all to hear what I have coming this year! Its gonna be a mad Ting!”

After closing an already incredible 2017 with an appearance alongside Future and J. Balvin on the remix of MC Fioti’s “Bum Bum Tam Tam” as well as news that her top 10 single “Hurtin’ Me” went gold, Stefflon Don closed out an already exceptional year that saw the breakout star announce her debut headline tour, perform live on Alan Carr’s ‘New Year Spectacular’, BBC’s new ‘Sounds Like Friday Night’, Capital FM’s Jingle Bell Ball and live from the red carpet at the MTV EMA’s. In addition, the East London artist picked up a BRITs Critic’s Choice nomination, a win for Best Female Artist at the 2017 MOBOs and released new single ‘Ding-A-Ling’, which sees her spit her fierce trademark flow alongside grime legend Skepta. Already a fan favourite, the track is quickly adding considerable numbers to her 100m streams-and-counting.

We Speak Music

‘‘Jerk’ by Laughing Cats: A Journey Through Rock’s Golden Eras and Beyond

Published

1 hour ago

November 21, 2024

Philomena Marie

Laughing Cats’ latest single, “Jerk,” is more than just a song; it’s a time capsule and a fresh take all at once. Lauren Schiff and Tony Fredianelli craft a sound that’s rooted in their love for rock’s golden eras, especially the 60s and 80s, yet their music is unmistakably modern. Together, they create a synergy that appeals to nostalgia without compromising contemporary relevance.

The single opens with a catchy, guitar-driven intro that is undeniably reminiscent of classic rock, instantly evoking images of crowded music venues and vibrant summer nights. Tony’s guitar work shines, intertwining influences from The Troggs and New Order with a crisp, modern twist. It’s clear that Laughing Cats draws deeply from their influences but injects enough originality to make it their own.

Lauren’s lyrics on “Jerk” delve into themes of growth, with her storytelling prowess giving the song a sense of emotional depth. Her vocal delivery balances introspection with a playful edge, letting listeners feel the raw honesty of the song. It’s not every day that a modern rock band can convey both vulnerability and strength in a single track, but Laughing Cats achieves just that.

Initially envisioned as a track sung by a male voice, “Jerk” nevertheless translates seamlessly to Lauren’s perspective, carrying a universal resonance that makes it accessible to all. The song’s story stems from real-life reflections on relationships and personal change. This approach gives the track a relatable narrative that many listeners will recognize from their own experiences.

Musically, “Jerk” holds a subtle complexity. While the song is catchy and upbeat, careful listeners will notice how it layers instruments and vocals to build momentum, giving it a sense of urgency. Tony’s skillful arrangement brings out the best in Lauren’s voice, emphasizing key moments and pulling back when needed, creating a dynamic listening experience.

With, Funny Money, on the horizon, Laughing Cats is setting a strong foundation for what promises to be a remarkable debut album. As “Jerk” showcases, this duo is unafraid to experiment while respecting the genres they cherish. It’s rare to find a band that celebrates rock’s past with such finesse and paves the way forward with such originality.