Songs to add to your playlist for February

It is deep in winter time and music is getting me through the dark, cold and grey. From genres including shoegaze to future-facing R&B, pop, hip hop, indie rock and more, there are so many amazing releases from rising artists this month. Check out a list of some of my favorite singles below. These compelling artists are a must add to your February playlist.

"Interlinked" by Aaryan Shah

Indian-American artist Aaryan Shah has released a riveting new single and cinematic music video. Called "Interlinked", the emotional and poignant song is an R&B-laced pop slow burner. The song is a personal one, with the artist confronting the consequences of having to medicate an undiagnosed bipolar disorder. He sings, "Tell me am I half the man / I used to be / I lost my empathy / the poison is on my way to my blood / I push away the people I love," showing the various problems he encountered in his life while trying to cloud his opposing emotions. Musically, "Interlinked" is a moody and atmospheric song complete with dreamy synths under mesmerizing vocals and dark-lit beats for a compelling listen. The accompanied music video shows the artist as he experiences a plethora of raw emotion perfectly mirroring the intensity of the single.

"Waiting On You!" by Jazzie Young

Jazzie Young melds dream pop with indie rock for an ear-pleasing musical envelopment. Her latest single "Waiting On You!" details that all too relatable feeling of excitement and anxiety that comes with having a new crush. Waiting in anticipation for the other to express their feelings can be so nerve racking and the single is a confessional outpouring of this emotion. She sings, "Tell me / do you want this? / don't leave me waiting on you." The song features a captivating vocal delivery, a whispery yet emotionally charged tone with infectious melodies. Layered guitars and ethereal sonic textures form a lush backdrop to complement the vulnerability in the lyrics. The song also is released alongside a music video showing Jazzie walking around Highland Park in LA with headphones on while she is ignored by possible romantic interests. Soon though she finds a cutie in the elevator and takes off her headphones to be fully present for a joy filled ending.

"You Got Problems" by RedrumSociety

RedrumSociety, the charismatic Los Angeles based indie pop band via Florida has just shared their latest single "You Got Problems". The song is autobiographical and details an extreme homesickness. Sometimes we look for escape in the many chaotic hardships of life and this single narrates just that. Lyrics showing this theme include, "You got problems / this town got me homesick / gotta get away." The dark message is contrasted with the bright and colorful music for an enticing listen. A Motown inspired vocal melody floats above stacked horns, funk-fueled bass and upbeat guitar riffs. "You Got Problems" features an unforgettable sound that is both timeless and fresh.

“Nick Foles” by Preze Pack

Preze Pack is a poetic new hip hop riser whose new release “Nick Foles” is a must listen. The track is named after the first Eagles quarterback to win the Super Bowl. The single is all about hustle, resilience and trying to lean into that self confidence that helps us achieve in life. He raps, "Somebody put me in another bracket / my will is strong / I am King Kong," reminding himself of his own strength. Sonically, "Nick Foles", pushes the boundaries of what hip-hop can be, blending intricate lyricism, live instrumentation, and a sense of depth that elevates his music to a level far beyond typical genre expectations. Perze has a smooth flow that creates an immersive experience and the use of jazz and soul influences make the song a standout. The video shows the artist rapping outside and shooting hoops for a personal glimpse into his life.

“Love’s The Only High” by Anne Stott

Anne Stott is an acclaimed queer singer-songwriter, performer and actress who lives in both Cape Cod and NYC. Her latest single is a dance pop bop that is called “Love’s The Only High". The track is an important love letter and reminder to the queer and trans community that we are not alone. This is extremely relevant due to the hateful rhetoric many politicians are spitting out these days. She sings, "Take my hand / no time to hide / love is here / love is now / love is the only high / they say that our flag should never fly / but loves the tide / we are going to rise." The track sparkles with nu-disco beats, striking synths and soulful heightened vocals. Anne Stott's “Love’s The Only High” is an exhilarating ride through a vibrant, retro-futuristic landscape.

"Ava Adore" covered by Taleen Kali

Los Angeles born and bred shoegaze meets punk outfit Taleen Kali return with a special album filled with alternative covers of popular love songs. Just in time for Valentine's Day, the album entitled Covered, features an incredible version of "Ava Adore" by The Smashing Pumpkins. Gritty fuzzed-out guitars underlay dream-laced moody vocals making for a cathartic listen. The genre-defying version is a masterpiece that blends alternative rock, grunge, punk, and industrial influences into a cohesive, powerful statement. The song's lyrics are cryptic yet evocative, delivering an emotional depth that matches the track's dark, sensual tone. The line "lovely girl, you're the murder in my world", captures the internal struggle between light and dark, desire and detachment. Taleen Kali also has the version and the album on a limited edition heart-shaped USB stick on a necklace and keychain.