Kristen Rae Bowden’s brand new single “Skateboard” is like the equivalent of catching the perfect breeze on a summer evening.
It’s effortlessly cool, fun, and impossible to resist. This indie-pop gem is all about the rush of first love and the carefree freedom of summer nights.
From the moment Joe Lawlor’s guitar riff kicks in, you’re pulled into a dreamy world where guitars shimmer with a mix of clean tones and just enough edge to keep things interesting, creating a backdrop that’s as vibrant as a sunset and as gritty as the pavement under your wheels.
Bowden’s vocals are pure magic – equal parts tender and daring, she’s got that rare ability to make every lyric feel like it’s meant just for you.
Produced with a perfect balance of indie sensibility and pop appeal, “Skateboard” is mixed by music industry heavyweights John Alagia and Pedro Laet. The layered guitars and Bowden’s ethereal vocals creates a dreamy soundscape that is as warm and inviting.
Whether you’re reminiscing about your own youthful escapades or in the thick of them now, “Skateboard” is a track that will have you lost in the heat of summer nights and the timeless thrill of young love.
Kristen Rae Bowden is a singer-songwriter with deep roots in music, growing up in a musically gifted family in Boone, North Carolina. She taught herself piano by ear and later expanded her musical education with classical flute training and a BFA in acting and musical theater from Elon University.
In 2019, she released her debut album, marking the start of her solo career. Collaborations with Joe Lawlor, a guitarist with ties to the Dave Matthews Band, have been a highlight of her recent work, including performances at major events and alongside notable musicians. Kristen’s music is known for its impressionistic storytelling and evolving style.
Ray Levier is a multi faceted drummer, composer, and music producer, and has once again captivated audiences with the release of his new music video for “Uncharted Destiny.”
Known for his precision and versatility across jazz fusion, rock, hip-hop, and singer-songwriter styles, Ray’s latest offering shows unique vision and real artistic creativity.
Inspired by the story of a retired Air Force commander who, after narrowly surviving a near-fatal test flight crash, undergoes a biochemical fusion with an alien spacecraft called “Uncharted Destiny”. The commander’s transformation leads to an epic journey that reveals his true identity and connects him with an alien civilization at the edge of the universe, reflecting Ray’s own exploration of new beginnings and the interconnections of life.
The music video is truly epic and one of a kind, taking viewers far beyond the usual music video sphere into an experience that is completely out of this world. Ethereal and imbued with a spiritual component, it challenges viewers to contemplate what else could be out there in the vastness of the universe.
Created by Ray Levier, with sound design by Ray Levier, Frani Lugo, Mike Dwyer, and Leslie Bloome, the cast features Ray Levier as Commander Ray, David Kopec as Brass, Frani Lugo as Tech, and Zenji the Dog as himself. The musicians include Ray Levier on drums, vibraphones, keyboard synthesizers, lead and backing vocals, Richard Tozzoli on guitars and E-harp, and Tim Lefebvre on bass.
The Audio production was done by RSL Production Studio, The Clubhouse, and Alchemy Post Sound, with audio mix by Mike Dwyer and Neil Dorfsman. Conceptual and environmental design was handled by Frani Lugo and Ray Levier, while cinematography, CGI, graphics, editing, storyboarding, and illustrations were all done by Frani Lugo.
The official video for “Unchartered Destiny” by Ray Levier is now available on Ray’s official YouTube Channel HERE:
We caught up with Ray to talk about the music video to accompany this brand new single release!
1. Tell us the story of this song, why did you choose to visualize this song specifically in this way?
I came up with the concept during Covid when everybody was sheltering in place and it seemed such a lonely time for me and so many others. It kept reminding me of the loneliness and emptiness of space and being alone for extended periods of time without anyone around. The positive side of the story reflects my accident and that there is always hope after a tragedy.
Just when you think you’re at Rock bottom and your life is over then something magical and beautiful appears unexpectedly. This is always been my thought process to stay positive after my accident being burned in a fire at a young age.
Turning tragedy into triumph, is something I knew I must do if I wanted to heal and be healthy as an individual to keep my spirit intact.
2. What was the inspiration behind this video (visuals, storyline, etc.)?
The inspiration of this video comes from a story I wrote about a man who is part alien but doesn’t realize it until the end of the video.
He is summoned to the other end of the galaxy to take his place as ruler of an alien civilization. There’s a whole backstory I’m working on with a screenplay that explains the journey in greater detail. So stay tuned for that.
3. What was the process of making this video?
The process of making this video was done with CGI (computer generated imagery) and shooting video with a green screen. We would shoot with green screen, then add all the CGI later to create the scene. Frani Lugo is the genius behind taking all my ideas and bringing them to life through this process.
It took us almost 3 years to create this as he was just one man taking on this monumental task. Normally there’s hundreds of people creating individual scenes working within the CGI realm. He pulled it off with amazing skill. He created everything you see on screen. There was no AI used in any of this. Just pure artistic genius on his part.
I hope the viewers enjoy the video and can take something away from it in regards to their own personal journey.
Feez Da Popstar, the vibrant alter-ego of DJ Jay Faire, is back to set the summer on fire with his latest hit, “It’s the Summer”!
From the energetic streets of New York’s 914 area code, Feez Da Popstar has transitioned from an acclaimed DJ to electrifying performer, blending hip hop and EDM pop into an irresistible mix.
Check out the new single here:
“It’s the Summer” is a perfect seasonal anthem, bursting with infectious beats and energy. The single shows Feez Da Popstar’s impressive range and his talent for creating tunes that take off on a global scale. With catchy hooks and driving rhythms, “It’s the Summer” invites everyone to bask in the carefree joy of sun filled days and endless summer nights.
It’s fun, joyful, and reminds us to relax and enjoy every minute we have.
Feez Da Popstar’s rise to prominence has been boosted by collaborations with top industry names like Lil Wayne, Chris Brown, and Tiesto, solidifying his status as a major player in the music scene. His previous hits, “Fly Away” and “Take Me Home” have gained a widespread acclaim.
Starting out as a DJ crafting mixtapes in the heart of NYC, Feez Da Popstar gained global exposure by infusing fun into my sets. Traveling worldwide, he witnessed firsthand how his music ignited the club atmosphere, sparking a desire to create his own music:
“It became clear that to convey emotions through music, I had to step into the spotlight as an artist.”
Thus, Feez Da Popstar was born—an alter ego dedicated to channeling his passion into creating vibrant, unforgettable music experiences:
“Seeing the clubs react to my sets and the music I would play led to me wanting to actually create music for others. After that I realized in order to translate what I felt in music I had to make and create and be the artist myself.”
This track is already making waves and is set to become a staple on party playlists and summer soundtracks.
Feez Da Popstar’s unique fusion of hip hop and EDM pop results in a sound that’s both captivating and irresistible, ensuring listeners will be dancing and singing along all season long!
New Jersey’s Marla Lewis is currently captivating listeners worldwide with her latest single, “Te Quiero a Ti.”
This mesmerizing new track, offered in both Spanish and English, showcases Marla’s exquisite bossa nova-inspired vocals, which are perfectly complemented by a rich and sophisticated arrangement.
The song features a lush ensemble of flute, piano, acoustic bass, electric guitar, drums, and backing vocals. The result is an evocative experience that captures the soul of romance, some vulnerability, and the carefree spirit of a holiday with its warm melodious embrace.
Marla has a very diverse set of influences in her music, including Ella Fitzgerald and The Beatles, and she has carved a unique path for herself bringing elements of big band, global folk music and smooth jazz together. A 25 year old tenure as an elementary school teacher ignited her passion for creating fun, educational and engaging songs for children, leading to accolades like featuring on the Grammy award winning album “All About Bullies … Big and Small” with her song “Leap of Faith.”
Transitioning into smooth jazz and American standards, Marla’s recent releases have captivated a global audience, including her latest hit “Te Quiero a Ti,” which has soared with much acclaim on indie music charts.
We caught up with Marla to discuss the music video to accompany her new single release, “Te Quiero A Ti.” The video was created by the talented Melissa Sanley.
Watch and share the Official “Te Quiero a Ti” music video:
1.Tell us the story of this song. Why did you choose to visualize it specifically in this way?
This is the story about how you feel when pure love appears in your life, when you find someone who loves you the way you are, and makes you feel as one with every step you take. One look into each other’s eyes and you can see how you have met your match.
I visualized the video with this beautiful feeling in mind, to empower this marvelous song.
2. What inspired this video (visuals, storyline, etc.)?
This video shows different couples from all cultures having the same experience of deep love.
I aimed to awaken this feeling in all who watch it.
3. What was the process of making this video?
Like with any song, you need absorb yourself in it, choosing the exact image for every phrase, taking the all the time you need, and putting in all your love for the best result.
The first draft of the video had too many people of the same race and culture; it wasn’t until a friend commented on this that I revised it and made it for all the world.
“I Love LOVE” is a soulful and funky track celebrating love in all its glorious forms. A delicious collaboration with jazz-soul legend Charlie Hunter, trumpeter Cyrus Naibipoor, and drummer Reinhardt Wolfgang Melz, Rudolph delivers a song that is delighting music lovers across all genres.
“I Love LOVE” began as a poem and evolved into a glorious song in its own right when Rudolph brought it to life with her vocals. It is a vibrant mix of jazz, soul, funk, and blues, proving these genres remain.
This track builds an interesting jazz-pop identity, highlighted by a contagious rhythm. Undoubtedly, the magic of this song lies in the lyrics and the warm and sensual vocal performance, which guides us through the song. All of this is achieved without losing a playful, fun, accessible, and catchy identity, making it perfect for capturing the attention of diverse audiences.
“I Love LOVE” began as a poem, like many of my songs, but when I approached the microphone, I started to sing! Thus, a song was born. Lyrically, it is playful and sweet, but the message is profound: love, in any flavor, in any combination, should be savored and celebrated.”
Hunter’s soulful guitar adds depth, Naibipoor’s New Orleans-influenced trumpet brings unique flair, and Melz’s dynamic drumming propels the rhythm, elevating “I Love LOVE” to new heights.
Shelly Rudolph has been a beloved figure in Portland’s music scene for more than two decades now, and she is known for her dynamic live performances. Her music spans genres like jazz, soul, blues, R&B, reggae, and pop.
Her latest album, “The Way We Love,” diverges from traditional jazz, embracing a drum-less, chamber jazz style with “maverick” cellist David Darling.
Rudolph’s genre-blending style and poetic lyricism have earned her a devoted following and critical acclaim, sharing the stage with renowned artists like Tom Grant and Phil Baker of Pink Martini and has made her mark as a solo artist. Her international influence includes placements on Spotify, Pandora, and jazz radio stations across Europe, Japan, Indonesia, and the Middle East.
Deeply rooted in her community, Rudolph has received accolades such as the Professional Development Grant from RACC and has been featured in Mayor Adams’ Listen Local program.
Ray Levier, the drumming maestro known for his genre-hopping abilities has recently released his new single “Uncharted Destiny.”
This track is a masterclass in rhythmic complexity and melodic emotion and perfectly demonstrates Ray’s unparalleled versatility and skill.
“Uncharted Destiny” takes listeners on a vivid musical journey, with dynamic chord shifts and compelling rhythmic progressions, this track shows a deep understanding of various musical styles. Ray’s precision in bashing out rock beats with panache, finessing jazz fusion grooves, swinging with a jazz combo, and laying down rugged hip hop beats is all evident in this single.
Ray describes “Uncharted Destiny” as a voyage of self-discovery amidst the vastness of the universe, finding strength in adversity as well as forging new paths:
“This song is about embracing the unknown, discovering our true selves, and finding strength in adversity. I poured my heart into this track, and I hope it inspires and resonates with you as much as it has with me.”
This theme resonates deeply with his own life story. Born into a family of musicians, Ray discovered his passion for drumming early on. However, it was a devastating fire accident at age 12 that left him with severe burns and the loss of most of his fingers. Despite this, his determination and ingenuity led him to devise unique ways to drum, first using duct tape, then a special martial arts glove, and eventually a surgery that granted him the use of his thumb. His journey from overcoming personal challenges to reaching professional heights is nothing short of inspiring.
Ray’s extensive career spans everything from live performances and teaching to composing for top TV networks like TLC, Discovery, and FOX Sports. Operating out of his cutting-edge studio near Manhattan, Ray’s influence in the music industry is undeniable. He has composed music for major networks, conducted live drum sessions, and collaborated with jazz fusion legends such as Mike Stern and John Abercrombie. His versatility is also highlighted by his long-standing role as the reliable sideman to urban folk and jazz artist KJ Denhert.
In addition to his performance career, Ray has also made significant contributions as a teacher and clinician. His rigorous study combined with insights from his personal experiences allows him to connect deeply with his students. He uses technology to reach students worldwide and conducts clinics for the manufacturers whose products he endorses, such as Yamaha, Paiste, Vater, and Evans.
His 2009 album “Ray’s Way” brought together jazz fusion greats, offering a satisfying collection of jazz fusion with telepathic musical synergy. His 2018 release “Lost and Found” highlighted his soulful vocals and poignant lyrics within a pop-rock context, drawing influences from classic rock, 1980s new wave, and alternative rock.
“Uncharted Destiny” is something of a bold statement of Ray’s enduring passion and relentless innovation in music, serving as a powerful reminder of the possibilities which exist from dedication and hard work.
Modern Mystery 
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