Stephen Jaymes returns with a brand new single out called “Stranded.”
In this single Jaymes turns the everyday experience of feeling stuck into a song for real reflection. As he is known for his poeticism and folk punk sensibilities, Jaymes once again delivers a song that captures the universal tension of being ready to move forward but held in place.
Listen in here:
The song opens with a delicate glockenspiel. As layers of acoustic and electric instrumentation build, a driving rhythm emerges, which mirrors the restless energy that inspires the song. J
Jaymes’s unmistakable voice anchors the track, as he captures a sense of vulnerability and determination. The vocal delivery makes the listener feel as though they are sharing a collective moment of realization.
But it’s the lyrics that are so striking; “Stranded” is packed with clever observations and truths with Jaymes able to turn stagnation into something touching as he explores the act of waiting not as wasted time but as an opportunity to find meaning.
While the mood feels overall light hearted on the surface, there is a lingering depth and a reminder of the strange beauty in life’s pauses. The track doesn’t offer easy solutions of empty optimism, yet it does acknowledge the frustration while urging the listener to embrace the rhythm of running in place.
“Stranded” feels more like a conversation, a shared laugh, and a comforting hand on the shoulder. A reminder perhaps that the act of staying still can be its own kind of progress.
This holiday season, The It City bring a fresh take on festive nostalgia with their heartwarming music video for “Christmas At Home”.
Known for their blend of modern sounds and timeless appeal, the band re-imagines their original orchestral holiday anthem in an intimate, acoustic trio format.
The result is a cozy stripped-down rendition that perfectly captures the warmth, longing and joy that defines the holiday season.
In this exclusive interview, we take a deeper dive into the inspiration behind the song, the creative vision for the music video, and the magic of bringing their holiday vision to life with the help of the talented Sean Power of Music City Content Kings.
Watch here:
1. Tell us the story of this song, why did you choose to visualize this song specifically in this way?
“Christmas At Home” is a forlorn little love letter to the holidays. We wanted to evoke the warm feelings of nostalgia that sneak in this time of year.
2. What was the inspiration behind this new video (visuals, storyline, etc.)?
We love the old Christmas specials and all of the unique and interesting performances from them. It was also an exciting musical opportunity to reimagine the original arrangement, replete with full orchestration, as a simplified acoustic trio!
3. What was the process of making the video?
The inimitable Sean Power of Music City Content Kings has a cozy studio here in Nashville. He does incredible work and had the cameras all set up and the stockings hung by the sound baffles with care. It’s always a delight to work with him whenever we can!
About The It City
The It City is a dynamic Nashville-based band known for its eclectic fusion of sounds that blend pop, rock, and soul with the timeless spirit of the city’s musical heritage.
Formed by a group of talented musicians including DJ Phillips (guitar, vocals), Derrek Phillips (drums, percussion, backing vocals), Rich Brinsfield (bass, backing vocals), and Reed Pittman (keyboards, vocals) the band has quickly become a standout act in the vibrant Nashville music scene.
With a string of successful releases and collaborations, The It City has received attention both locally and internationally, sharing the stage with music legends such as Elton John, Lana Del Rey, Sting, and Maren Morris.
The band’s sound is characterized by rich harmonies, infectious melodies, and a deep-rooted commitment to musicianship, evident in their diverse musical influences and creative approach to songwriting.
Their holiday single Christmas At Home is the latest in a series of releases that explore their familiar sounds while staying true to the heart of what makes their music so universally appealing.
Julie Haven’s latest single, “Running Man,” is a surprising, upbeat shift from the more introspective ballads that have established her as one of Metro Detroit’s most soulful and evocative singer-songwriters.
Known for her honest reflections on heartbreak and life’s tougher lessons, Julie’s music has always been an outlet for the heavier and more complex emotions that resonate with listeners.
But with “Running Man”, a cheeky, piano-powered pop-rock anthem, Julie lets her lighter, wittier side take center stage. Inspired by an emotionally elusive partner with a “dismissive avoidant attachment style,” the song is a burst of energy and personality aimed squarely at a man who “runs at the first sign of struggle or closeness.” The music video, however, takes things a step further, and captures the humor and absurdity of this dynamic with over-the-top silliness.
With a cast of hilariously exaggerated characters and laugh-out-loud moments, the video features Julie’s friends dressed up in zany roles. From the elusive Running Man himself to a wig-wearing “mother” crying over her daughter’s love life.
Filmed in her old Florida home and local parks, the video transforms familiar settings into a stage for playful scenes that poke fun at her own heartbreak.
Here, Julie shares what inspired “Running Man,” how the video came together, and why this song is such a departure for her musically and emotionally.
1. Tell us the story of this song; why did you choose to visualize this song specifically in this way?
The song itself was written as a sort of follow up to “See Me Cry”, where I was already in a state of frustration from feeling like I was being toyed with by an emotionally unavailable partner, (who now I realize many years later, was man with a dismissive avoidant attachment style), and the constant hot and cold dynamic led to an even angrier version of myself when I wrote “Running Man”. Which essentially, is about a man who constantly runs at the first sign of struggle or closeness in a relationship.
I wanted this video to be just super over the top, ridiculous and silly. Most of my songs are very serious and about heartbreak or the constant lessons of life that I’m trying to interpret and learn. I released “Kill Me”, which is a pretty dark song about being lied to and about infidelity, which had a very creepy animated video along with it, then followed that up with the emotionally heavy, “Between the Lies”, about domestic abuse, and I wanted this video to be the total opposite of that and just be stupid, really. I have a bunch of different sides of me, and the people who know me very well, know that as dark and depressed I can be, I can also be really silly and have no problem making fun of myself. So I wanted that to come through in this video.
So with the video, I wanted to take the lyrics and over exaggerate them with a very tongue and cheek tone. We have Benjamin Card, (a super talented songwriter under the name “Breezy Tempest”) the Running Man himself, and he’s in this bright yellow outfit and basically running the whole time. My friend Glenn Baker (Glenn Baker Band) plays my mother, and he’s wearing a bright red wig with a full beard. And the basic story is I give him my heart, which in the video is an actual heart shaped totem, he runs away with it, but keeps coming back while I keep giving him chances. Eventually I run after him and get my heart back once and for all.
2. What inspired this video (visuals, storyline, etc.)?
When I thought about making this video, I just kept picturing the most ridiculous scenes and this guy just running away from the simplest things like milk spilling onto the floor, being intimate and bolting, taking off when I’m crying watching a movie (“Kill Me” easter egg moment), actually biting me and running away (a line in the song). And it just kind of morphed into what we have. I added the idea of my mother crying every time this guy runs away and breaks her little girl’s heart, and it hit me one day “What if Glenn dresses in a wig and a tight dress?! It would be hilarious!” Then my disapproving father (who has never approved of any man in my life) is smoking a bubble pipe with a drawn on beard (Ironically enough played by my now ex). It’s just over the top silly. And just for fun I added my friend Michelle Johnson in there for no reason other than being the “BANG!” girl who is a random character who pulls a trigger on a prob gun that says “BANG!” and cheering for everything cause she loves everyone. She cracks me up.
3. What was the process of making this video?
Lance Goodman was the videographer, director and editor. He is the same guy who filmed “Between the Lies”, and I loved working with him the first time, so I decided to do it again. One of the cool things is that we filmed both videos in the same locations; the house where I used to live with my ex in Florida, and the park where we used to run. I thought it was neat to have the dark and the light in the same places.
We filmed this in one day. So the day of the shoot everyone showed up at the house and I had my ideas written down as certain scenes I wanted to try and we tried it all. We then went to the park and finished the running scenes, which was very funny because there were random people walking around and watching us as we acted out this ridiculous video. A scene we added last minute was Ben dropping my keyboard and breaking it and then taking off, leaving me to clean up the mess. I would never condone destroying a piece of perfectly good equipment, however, two days prior to filming this video, I was rear ended and my car was totaled along with my keyboard while I was driving to a gig. I wanted to add a car scene in the video but the car was undrivable. So I decided to add the keyboard scene in since it was already destroyed. Very “Rock ‘n Roll” lol.
I also gave Ben full reign to do whatever he wanted with the character, and he was perfect for that role. I could not stop laughing. I kept breaking character because he would surprise me with the faces he would make or moves he would just randomly do. We all had a lot of fun making this. Great memories for sure.
“Running Man” is a track from “Dramatic Departures”, Julie’s first full-length album, crafted from an intimate collection of songs she’s kept close over the years.
Her discography already includes an album, four EPs, and a live record, capturing a journey that has seen her perform across the U.S., from small coffeehouses to major festivals.
Julie has been a recurring artist at Michigan’s celebrated Arts, Beats and Eats Festival, where her music resonates with audiences year after year. With the upcoming worldwide release of “Dramatic Departures“, Julie invites listeners to connect with her most personal work to date.
In a time when the world seems more divided than ever, Gary Pickus’s project, Eyes of the Stars, debuts a radiant anthem of hope and unity with his latest single “The World Will Unite.”
The track is an infectious blend of reggae, pop, and R&B, and it carries with it a unified message – to remind listeners that, despite all of our differences, music has the power to bring us together.
“The World Will Unite” has a bright, optimistic energy and a toe-tapping rhythm. Pickus’s long-held belief that joy and music are the antidotes to division is shown well here. It’s a melody that sticks in your head and a message that sticks in your heart.
Listen here:
Pickus’s vocals are smooth and passionate with the call for global togetherness. The chorus – soaring and anthemic – paints a picture of a future where differences can be celebrated, and where humanity can find common ground in love, joy, and faith.
“The World Will Unite” also shines in its production. Pickus incorporates reggae’s laid-back rhythms, pop’s bright melodies, and the smooth, soulful textures of R&B. It’s the kind of song that transcends borders, much like the message it conveys.
“The inability to walk in another person’s shoes is a disability,” Pickus declares, challenging listeners to step into someone else’s world.
What sets “The World Will Unite” apart though is its balance between being a fun, energetic track and something deeply meaningful. It’s music that feels good, but is also inspiring.
And in a time when the world feels so fractured, that’s exactly the kind of song we all need.
Gary Pickus stands out as a versatile and seasoned music professional with a career spanning multiple decades, marked by notable achievements across composing, arranging, producing, musical directing, and performing.
His work has reached global audiences through his gold record, contributions to 20 albums, as well as the creation of 2 network TV themes.
He has also developed a 4-CD children’s educational series and performed thousands of live shows on keyboards, with hundreds of his compositions placed in various media.
Pickus’ extensive career has taken him through key musical hubs like New York, Los Angeles, and Nashville, and his international projects reflect a deep understanding of world music influences. His commitment to creating music that serves a higher purpose is encapsulated in his mantra, “There is nothing more entertaining than saving lives,” which emphasizes the power of music to bring about positive change.
Throughout his career, he has worked alongside legendary figures like Alan and Robin Thicke, Dionne Warwick, Diane Warren, and Dasha, collaborating with many other industry creatives who have gained recognition supporting major stars.
Connect with Gary Pickus and Eyes of the Stars on the Website
Behind the Scenes with Bud E. Luv’s Re-imagining of “Music to Watch Girls By”
For over 35 years, Bud E. Luv has been a captivating presence in San Francisco’s music and nightlife scene.
The charismatic alter ego of singer and showman Bobby Vickers, Bud E. Luv is known for blending humor, nostalgia, and sophistication in his performances. And with a career spanning prestigious venues like The Fillmore, Bimbo’s, and Paradise Lounge, and appearances across the U.S., he has become a fixture of timeless entertainment. His versatility allows him to effortlessly explore various musical genres, from jazz to pop, while maintaining an engaging, larger-than-life persona.
Recently, Bud E. Luv has turned his attention to reimagining the 1960s classic “Music to Watch Girls By.”
Known for its catchy melody and lighthearted vibe, the song has been revisited by various artists over the years but Bud’s new rendition brings a fresh and thoughtful perspective. In collaboration with director Tom Donald of hiTrecords, Bud E. Luv has produced a visually stunning black-and-white music video that reflects the complexities of modern society while paying homage to the song’s timeless appeal.
We got the chance to sit down with Bud E. Luv as he shares the story behind his decision to re-imagine the song, the inspirations behind the video, and the thoughtful message he hopes to convey.
1. Tell us the story of this song, why did you choose to visualize this song specifically in this way?
“Music To Watch Girls By” was written some 60 years ago, and today it’s regarded in some circles as inflammatory. We disagree.
To us, it’s a beautifully-written ode to the joys of humanity, in all its forms. Beauty is always in the eye of the beholder.
2. What was the inspiration behind this new video (visuals, storyline, etc.)?
We chose Mr. Tipple’s, perhaps the classiest nightclub in San Francisco, for its noir lighting and background. It’s the kind of place where Bud E. Luv performs, but also where the young woman might venture for a night out.
As we stage the meeting between the two characters, this iconic location was perfect. In like manner, black and white photography seemed the right choice.
3. What was the process of making the video?
Our message is one of inclusion; we want to suggest that all of humanity, regardless of age or gender, is beautiful.
And as such, the simple act of beholding one another is as natural an act as we can undertake.
Speaking about the music video, Bud E. Luv shares, “Our goal was to send a message of inclusion and shared humanity. It’s not about objectifying – it’s about appreciating people for who they are, in all their forms.”
The combination of Luv’s timeless persona with Tom Donald’s thoughtful direction elevates this project into a reflection on human interaction, perception, and the beauty of fleeting moments.
Through thoughtful storytelling and elegant visuals, this new version invites audiences to appreciate the beauty and complexity of human connection. This project shows an enduring creativity and charm and that Bud E. Luv’s legacy will continue to captivate audiences for many years to come.
With over 45,000 YouTube subscribers, and more than 32,000 monthly Spotify streams, singer-songwriter Shane Hellman has a wide reaching and fast growing International audience.
His latest release, “Psalm 51 (Forgive me)” forms part of The Psalms Project; an ambitious project to set all 150 Psalms to music.
Each album release from The Psalms Project shows Heilman’s adeptness at bringing together contemporary melodies with ageless Psalms, captivating audiences worldwide.
Collaborations with renowned musicians and producers coupled with a firm commitment to keeping the essence of the ancient texts within a modern composition, have really solidified this project’s standing in worship music.
“Psalm 51 (Forgive Me)” draws inspiration from King David’s plea of forgiveness. Through introspective lyrics and emotive melodies, this song offers a poignant respite and exploration of human frailty and redemption. And it tackles a difficult and deep topic.
Shane shares:
“As you probably know, it was written by David after committing adultery with Bathsheba and trying to cover it up by having her husband killed in battle.
I was hesitant to even try to write a song that captured all of Psalm 51 with music.
Charles Spurgeon, the famous preacher, even put off writing a commentary on Psalm 51 for weeks because he felt no words could to it justice!
He said, “Such a psalm may be wept over, absorbed into the soul…but commented on – ah! where is he who having attempted it can do other than blush at his defeat?”
Yet, I’m happy to report, I did write, compose, and record a song (with some friends of mine) for all of Psalm 51!
I think it’s one of the best songs we’ve ever done.”
This soothing and beautiful rendition of Psalms 51 set to music is not only inspiring, but really demonstrates the transformative potential of music and faith. The very talented singer, Trot Lifto, provides exquisite vocals, with haunting piano chords and soaring strings.
This song captures a sensitive treatment of what is a complex Psalm and subject matter, with simple melodies and accompaniment to create a very beautiful Psalm rendition.
As the Psalms Projects drums up increasing popularity, Shane’s continues to have a steadfast commitment to translating all 150 Psalms to music, bringing universal themes of hope, forgiveness, and Divine love to the fore.
The Psalms Project is led by singer/songwriter/producer Shane Heilman, and includes the collaboration of more than 70 accomplished musicians, including Grammy nominees Phil Keaggy and Jeff Duo to name just a few.
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