Washed Out (Ernest Greene) recently released his fifth studio album Notes From A Quiet Place. It's a lush collection of sunny pop songs perfect for a summer drive. Tracks like "Running Away" drip with nostalgia and the optimism of young love. Riding the wave of Hype Machine and the music blog boom of the late 2000s, Greene rose to become of one ele…

Over the last few years, Danae Hays has become one of TikTok's biggest comedy stars. With characters that poke fun at her Southern roots, the Alabama native can hardly go anywhere without being recognized. Recently, Hays has been making a push to expand her audience beyond social media. She's embarking on a 28-city standup tour starting July 19, an…

It feels like Lindsey Stirling is living her dream. From an audience favorite on America's Got Talent to filling large Las Vegas theaters, she's at the top of her game. She's admired by adults and small children, and her social media following totals more than 20 million. Her latest album, Duality is cinematic and a little dark, the kind of album t…

Although she's only 22, Skylar Simone has been recording music for a decade. She made a name for herself with tracks like "How Did We" and a cover of Pharrell's "Happy," as well as appearances on Austin & Ally and Super Fun Night. Skylar recently signed to Def Jam, joining one of music's most prestigious legacies and signaling a new era in her care…

For the last few years, AleXa has ascended through the world of K-Pop. Adopting a cyberpunk aesthetic with hypnotic choreography, she's racked up more than 160 million views on her YouTube channel. American audiences got to know AleXa two years ago when she won the first and only season of American Song Contest. She formed a bond with cohost Kelly …

Since the release of her massive debut album Innocent Eyes in 2003, Delta Goodrem has remained one of Australia's most popular entertainers. She's scored several number one hits in her home country, starred in popular shows, and served as a coach on the Australian version of The Voice. American audiences may recognize Goodrem from the 2023 Netflix …

Over the last few years, HAUSER has become one of the world's most popular classical performers. His shows are spectacles that thrill thousands of fans for up to three hours. With dozens of musicians on stage, the Croation cellist covers well known orchestral themes as well as new arrangements of modern hits. Although his previous album focused on …

Eight years after the viral success of "Sweatshirt," Jacob Sartorius has evolved into a contemplative singer-songwriter. Recent tracks like "homebody" and "luv" reveal a more mature musician facing grownup issues.His latest single, "Lonely," is a duet with friend Audrey Mika. The piano-driven song explores the fallout of a failed relationship. It's…

On March 1, Paula Cole released her latest album, Lo. It's her first collection of original new music in nearly a decade. Singles like "Green Eyes Crying" are earthy and organic, the result of recording with longtime collaborators like drummer Jay Bellerose.Known for hits like "Where Have All the Cowboys Gone?" and "I Don't Want to Wait," Cole neve…

Although he found early success as a rapper, Travis Mills always liked the idea of being in a band. He grew up admiring blink-182, MxPx, and The Used. Early groups didn't work out for various reasons, and he found solo success with tracks like "Diemonds" and "Young & Stupid." In drummer Nick Gross, Mills found a musical partner with the drive to ma…

You may know Asher Angel for his roles in the Shazam! movies and the Disney Channel comedy Andi Mack. But he's also a talented musician. The 21-year-old plays guitar and piano, and his smooth pop R&B vocals recall vintage Justin Timberlake and Usher.Although he released several singles in the wake of Andi Mack, he hasn't spent much time on music si…

For the final It's Real episode of 2023, Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos talk to a couple of artists who have had great years. Sadie Dupuis, known for fronting Speedy Ortiz, was recently named one of the 250 Greatest Guitarists of All Time by Rolling Stone. In September, the band released Rabbit Rabbit. Their first album since 2018's Twerp Verse, it …

With more than five million followers on social media, Gabi Sklar is on the rise. However, the singer-songwriter is more concerned about the quality of her music than the number of likes she receives. She's quick to point out that all those followers are people who are there for her voice, creative percussion, and impeccable taste in cover songs.Al…

After more than two decades, NEEDTOBREATHE frontman Bear Rinehart stills gets a thrill out of performing for fans. Songs like "Who Am I" and "Multiplied" have helped build a huge following, allowing the band to play arenas across the country.Labeled a Christian band by many, NEEDTOBREATHE's music has a much larger scope. While embraced by the Chris…

On November 17, Plain White T's will release their self-titled ninth studio album. While the songwriting feels familiar, the band's sound has shifted. The acoustic guitar is still there, but the production is more atmospheric. "Happy," for example, features layered vocals and percussion ready for top 40 radio.Although best known for hits like "Hey …

In a world of dark, cynical pop songs, UMI loves love. Whether through her music, social media posts, or YouTube videos, she radiates positivity. Her latest single "happy im" is a lush acoustic R&B song about giving in to love and joy. It's the kind of song that makes you feel like holding hands with someone on a rooftop at sunset. Born to a Japane…

This past summer, Yellowcard reunited and performed dozens of shows at large venues across the country. They also released their first new music since 2016. The EP Childhood Eyes returns to the sound that made them popular, but the songwriting reflects their maturity and sense of nostalgia. It includes collaborations with Dashboard Confessional and…

The last month has been one that Chappell Roan won't forget. She released her debut album, began a nearly sold out headlining tour, and announced that she will support Olivia Rodrigo in the spring. She even made an appearance on Elton John's Rocket Hour show, where the music legend expressed that he thinks her records are "amazing." It may seem lik…

After 30 years together, MxPx remains one of the best and hardest working bands out there. They recently released their 11th studio album Find A Way Home. Anchored by "Not Today," and "Stay Up All Night," it's full of the catchy rock songs that fans love. Watch lead vocalist/bassist Mike Herrera and lead guitarist Tom Wisniewski talk about how they…

Jordan and Demi welcome Echosmith back to the show! The band has evolved since their breakout hit “Cool Kids” a decade ago. While they still produce atmospheric, catchy pop songs, they take more risks. Their self titled new album is their most experimental release yet. It may also be the trio's best. Sydney Sierota and Noah Sierota about recording …

In an era of trending sounds and singles, Kota the Friend makes albums. His latest, Protea, is a kaleidoscope of clever wordplay, smooth hooks, and beats you can dance to. Dedicated to his wife, the 16 tracks feel like a celebration. It features guest spots from Aloe Blacc, Braxton Cook, and Samm Henshaw. Listen to Jordan Edwards and Demi Ramos int…

On this episode of It's Real, Jordan and Demi interview two multitalented performers who first appeared on screen when they were young. Katelyn Tarver was a contestant on American Juniors, where she made the final round. She then acted in shows like Big Time Rush, The Secret Life of the American Teenager, and HBO's Ballers. Olivia Olson made her de…

For the first time, an episode of It's Real with Jordan and Demi features two unrelated guests. Madilyn Bailey and Rachel Grae are both singer-songwriters, but that's where the similarities end.Bailey's debut album Hollywood Dead drops on August 23, and she's expecting her first child after that. Although she's excited for motherhood, she doesn't p…

While Cannons been releasing music for nearly a decade, their popularity has exploded in the last couple of years thanks to the success of "Fire for You" and their last album, Fever Dream. That means their next album will be their most anticipated. The lead single, "Loving You," came out in April, but the band hasn't given up many details about the…

On June 30, Gabi DeMartino released her latest single "Heaven." More than a year in the the making, the track is perhaps her most confessional. Using lyrics from the 1957 film An Affair to Remember, the song reveals the truth behind her broken engagement to ex-fiancé Collin Vogt. Along with her sister Niki, Gabi DeMartino has spent her entire adult…

​On July 14, Lauren Spencer Smith will release her debut album, Mirror. It's the culmination of three years of hard work and growing as a songwriter and performer.Appearing on American Idol in 2020, the 19-year-old used the momentum from the show to create a career that's earned her hit songs, a huge social media following, and an appearance on The…

Earlier this month, Emily Kinney released "Walkin' Round Your Dreams," a warm, retro pop song that recalls '60s girl groups and Rilo Kiley. The track is off of her upcoming album Swim Team, due out in September. Fans of Kinney may know her from roles like Beth Greene on the The Walking Dead and Anna in the Broadway musical Spring Awakening. For mor…

The last time we talked to GAYLE, her megahit "abcdefu" was just entering the top 10. Since then, she's carved out a place as one of pop music's most distinctive and versatile young stars. In addition to a GRAMMY nomination for "abcdefu," she's continued to pump out catchy singles like "ur just horny" and "everybody hates me." And yes, Taylor Swift…

Laura Marano has a lot going on. She released her latest single "Boundaries" on April 14, and she's been busy filming movies for Netflix. Last year, she starred in The Royal Treatment, and soon fans can see her in Choose Love, the streaming service's first interactive romantic comedy. Known for her role as Ally on Disney Channel's Austin & Ally, sh…

On June 9, Milky Chance will drop their new album Living In A Haze. They've released a couple tracks from it, including the latest single "Golden." The album strikes a nice balance between the alt rock of their debut Sadnecessary and the more experimental Trip Tapes project. Known for their epic live shows, Clemens Rehbein and Philipp Dausch broke …

​Last week, Mudhoney released their 11th studio album Plastic Eternity. Fans of the legendary Seattle rock band get what they've come to expect: messy and melodic guitars, booming drums, and Mark Arm's passionate vocals. As the title suggests, the album is a warning about the climate crisis and the impact of ignoring it. It's been a few years since…

Andrew McMahon's new album Tilt At The Wind No More is his first since 2018. The Southern California native has been a fixture of alternative radio for more than 20 years. From his early hits with Something Corporate, to Jack's Mannequin to in the Wilderness, his music has always found an audience. He's one of the rare musicians who found solo succ…

In late January, Charlotte Sands released the single "Alright." It's a moving ballad about trying to find hope in dark times. With its vulnerable lyrics and slow-building crescendo, it will surely become a centerpiece of her live show. The song is a departure from the rock and dance floor anthems she's best known for. However, she's consistently sh…

With their warm guitars and intimate storytelling, Peach Pit feels like a band that you're friends with. Their music is drenched in nostalgia, reminding the listener of cool fall sunsets and BYOB house parties. Songs like "Alrighty Aphrodite" and "Shampoo Bottles" have earned the Canadian band a devout following and hundreds of millions of streams.…

Bankrol Hayden has continuously released memorable music since debuting in 2018. His quick, melodic flow is unique, and his hooks stay with you. Fans have taken notice. "Costa Rica," "Brothers," and "Come Through," have more than 400 million combined Spotify streams. He's versatile too. His latest single with charlieonnafriday and labelmate Arden J…

Many younger artists are embracing the music of previous decades. 2022 was full of Y2K rock and '80s pop. Few go back as far as Stephen Sanchez. Inspired by his grandparents' record collection, the 20-year-old has embraced the sound of artists like Roy Orbison, Buddy Holly, Ricky Nelson, and Elvis. His love for the 1950s and early '60s paid off. "U…

They've recorded a dozen albums and scored huge hits, but Switchfoot has never released a Christmas album. That changed this year with this is our Christmas album.The 12 tracks are split between classics like "Christmastime is Here" and "The Christmas Song," as well as new songs like the old school punk inspired-"Scrappy Little Christmas Tree." Wat…

Many fans, especially young ones, know Alison Sudol for her role as Queenie Goldstein in the Fantastic Beasts franchise. Over three films, she's become part of one of the most beloved cinematic universes. But she's been a musician longer than she's been an actor. Recording as A Fine Frenzy, she built a devoted following and won over critics with re…

Since the 2013 album Journals, Poo Bear and Justin Bieber have collaborated on hits including "Intentions," "What Do You Mean?" and "Yummy." Poo Bear even says that Bieber has picked up on his vocal style. You can hear those smooth, soaring vocals on his latest album The Book of Nabeel. It's his first LP since Bearthday Music in 2018. While that re…

Taylor Bennett loves music, and he's fascinated with the concept of genre. On Coming of Age, he creates an eclectic mix of pop, hip-hop, and rock. It includes guest spots from Jeremih, Matt and Kim, and Tom Higgenson of Plain White T's.But Bennett is more than a musician. He created Be Yourself, an activewear brand and collaboration with Champion. …

During her run as Adrianna Tate-Duncan on the reboot of 90210, Jessica Lowndes began recording singles. She explored pop, rock, and even Christmas music. In fact, producers originally cast her in a singing role. A decade later, music has become a big part of her career. The 33-year-old recently released Elemental, a visual album that includes a mus…

As part of the Chicago collective Savemoney, Joey Purp has aligned himself with longtime friends like Chance the Rapper and Vic Mensa. He's established his own identity as an MC who can quickly shift styles. His lyrics can be playful and fun, but also sharp and aggressive. His affinity for classic soul samples is reminiscent of fellow Chicagoan Kan…

A few years ago, Demi opened for The Snuts at a small club in New York. Now she interviews the band as they travel on a big fancy tour bus! Bassist Callum Wilson breaks down how the Scottish quartet came together, why they get along, and the energy they bring to their live shows.By Popdust

Each holiday season, we're bombarded with new Christmas albums. There's the country guy you forgot about, that one singer from the '80s your mom likes, and a Broadway person that no one really knows. The songs probably include a heartfelt "White Christmas" and an uninspired "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree." For her upcoming holiday album Snow Wa…

With hits like "Everything Zen" "Comedown," and "Swallowed," Bush has created some of the most recognizable songs in rock. After three decades, the band hasn't slowed down. With a message that addresses our polarized world and a massive chorus, the recent single "More Than Machines" has already become a fan favorite. Their ninth studio album, The A…

Shinedown is one of the most successful rock bands of the 21st century. Since their debut album Leave a Whisper in 2003, the band has notched 19 number one rock radio singles. They also hold the distinction of having the number one song on Casey Kasem's final broadcast of American Top 20 in 2009. Their latest, Planet Zero, is filled with the hard r…

For the last several years, Sunflower Bean's Julia Cumming has been one of the New York music scene's most visible figures. She's lived the double life of a rock 'n' roll star and fashion model, celebrated for both her style and songwriting. The latest Sunflower Bean album Headful of Sugar is the band's first LP in four years. The sound is raw and …

Since ending a four-season run on the hit Nickelodeon show The Thundermans, Kira Kosarin has evolved. She's taken more grown-up roles on Light as a Feather and Good Trouble. Musically, she's shifted from R&B to a post-pandemic sound that's more in line with the singer-songwriters she admired as a child. Her new EP on Republic Records, Something New…

Real Housewives fans know Asher Monroe as the partner of Diana Jenkins, the recent addition to the Beverly Hills cast. To music fans, he's a versatile singer-songwriter who can shift between pop, R&B, and EDM. His new album, Windows of Time, is epic and theatrical. Over eight tracks, Monroe is accompanied by piano, strings, and even a choir. Jordan…

With a sound that's unpredictable and a daring personal style, ko aka koala stands out in a crowded pop field. The daughter of scientists, she's created a universe inspired by Y2K punk, genre films, and '80s animation.Her singles prior to 2022 were dark and dense. Recent releases, including her latest "hit & run," are more radio friendly, but the p…