Author: Blondie and the Beat

Music Journalist I write about all things MUSIC! Q&A's with artists, album/single reviews, band spotlights, and more!
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Best Merch

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Njomza: Minimalist comfy vibes with a hint of modern slang mirror Njomza’s lyrics and sound (Check out her lead single “Sad For You”). Cropped hoodies, comfy sweats, and basic hats all under $35. GIMME!

hat

Blackbear: The Bear is always on top of what’s trendy. Distressed, oversized tees, small logos, etc. Most are basic colors while some items come in the custom Blackbear orange we all know and love.

bear shirt .png

Ariana Grande: Mixing street graffiti with classic color blocking. Each piece feels curated from the pop Queen herself. Sweatshirts, tees, bracelets, medical masks. Yes, you heard me right.

crewneck

Harry Styles: Romantic nostalgia and feminine florals are sprinkled on every article of clothing. Not only does Harry spread happiness with his music but also a positive message on his merch that says, “Treat People With Kindness”.

harry styles

Halsey: The official merch for the Hopeless Fountain Kingdom tour isn’t released yet, but it is absolutely going to be dope. Renaissance themes and bright lively colors are already flooding her HFK tour. Right now there’s a cute royal t-shirt and a gorgeous gold choker that reads “Hopeless”.

hoeless

 

 

 

Music, New blog post, New music, New Music Friday

NMF Picks!

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“Buzzin” – Alina Baraz

 

“Famous” – ROZES

 

“Damage (feat. Halsey)” – PARTYNEXTDOOR

 

“Miss You So Much” – Miley Cyrus

 

“Underdog” – Banks

 

“do re mi – Tarro Remix” – Blackbear 

 

 

Music, New blog post, New music, New Music Friday

Who You Need: Jeremy Zucker

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jeremy
Image via catalystnewspaper.com

 

WHO: Jeremy Zucker

WHERE: New Jersey

GENRE: R&B/Pop

SONGS: “Talk Is Overrated” feat. Blackbear

 

 

A senior in college doesn’t stop this pretty boy from spreading his wings into the music world. This 21 year-old, is making a name for himself. Taking full reign of his sound, lyrics, production, etc; Zucker proves all you need to succeed is yourself.

This past July, he released a stellar single with hit-maker/inspiration, Blackbear called “Talk Is Overrated.” The track now has over 3,000,000 streams on Spotify, launching Zucker into the limelight. His sound is both sexy and fun, mixing the fun parts of pop with the intricate parts of R&B. Today marks the release of his next single, “End” a slower homage to a broken relationship. Zucker’s voice sounds raspy and fresh on each note. Older tracks like “October Snow”, “Keep My Head Afloat” and “Man Down” prove his stamina in his own genre.

I caught up with Zucker recently at his Juice Jam performance in Syracuse. While his guy gang hung out on plush couches, he chewed on some carrots and answered a round table of questions from some eager females.

Studying Biology in college, Zucker has to take classes one at a time so he’s able to balance his school work and musical career. He recently signed with Republic Records and described the process as “validating.” Republic is now helping his music reach more people. “I was putting out music every week and making sure every song was as good as I wanted it to be” Zucker says about his work ethic pre-label. He continues to keep the same mindset moving forward.

 

Expect an EP from Zucker by the end of the year, along with more live shows!

 

 

Music, New blog post, New music

Quinn XCII: More Than Pop

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Quinn’s latest album, The Story of Us is pop shot to the moon and back. Nothing is off limits. The Detroit native proves his voice is one of the most unique in the industry right now. 11 tracks tackle a new element and by the end, you’re convinced he can do no wrong.

quinn
Image via quinnxcii.com

Mixed beats lace each song while Quinn’s voice hijacks every syllable. “Don’t You” stands out as one of my favorites. Led by an acoustic guitar, the cutesy track quickly shifts into a low key R&B tune. Quinn doesn’t box himself in one genre, his verses are choppy yet mixed to perfection so the rhythm is NEVER off. The lyrics aren’t cryptic, he keeps it real and honest; “I’m losing my patience, swear she’s dating someone famous,” he spits out.

“Fake Denim” and “Straightjacket” are the catchiest off the album. Both keeping pop elements mixed with a slice of those R&B sounds he does so well. Quinn recently told Billboard that lead single “Straightjacket” is about, “Dating someone who acts one way in public but totally different (and crazier) behind closed doors, and the goal of ultimately exposing that true personality to everyone.” Both tracks have an underlying EDM vibe which parallels perfectly to his go-getter/confident attitude.

While most artists have albums that feel more like fillers, Quinn makes each song a hit single. The Story of Us is a wholesome album. I truly think there is something for everyone on it. I can’t wait to hear/see more from Quinn XCII in the future.