by Jane Lambert

Nicki Richards Captures Timeless Beauty with “You Become More Beautiful”

Nicki Richards’s latest single, “You Become More Beautiful” is a transcendent ode to love, gratitude and the quiet moments that leave a lasting impression on the heart.

Released just before the holiday season at the end of last year, the track is a really lush R&B ballad that wraps listeners in a warm embrace.

The origin of the song is as poignant as the track itself. While driving through the sunny streets of Florida with her mother, Nicki found herself enveloped in a moment of pure contentment and connection.

Inspired by the soft glow of sunlight and the blessings of life, the phrase “You Become More Beautiful Each Day” came to her, drawn from the spirit of Joe Sample’s Carmel album. That single lyric became the heart of a song that celebrates the profound beauty of relationships that continues to grow richer over time.

Musically, the single blends elements of classic R&B, jazz, and subtle Latin influences to create a sound that is both expansive and deeply grounded.

The rhythm section is driven by jazz-fusion legend Lenny White on drums and the iconic Marcus Miller on bass whose grooves provide a flawless foundation. Cyrus Chestnut’s piano work adds elegance, while percussionist Bashiri Johnson brings a gentle vibrancy to the arrangement. Acoustic guitarist Marcus Machado injects a soothing groove, layering the track with definite texture and heart.

Backing vocals from Catherine Russell, Carolyn Leonhart, and Everett Bradley create a choral warmth that complements Nicki’s voice, as she glides effortlessly between tenderness and power.

Her vocal delivery is nothing short of mesmerizing, balancing technical precision with true vulnerability. Every note feels deliberate, every lyric like a gift carefully unwrapped for the listener.

While “You Become More Beautiful” is infused with the festive spirit of the holiday season, its themes transcend the moment. It’s a song about cherishing the people who matter most, about finding beauty in life’s fleeting yet profound moments. This emotional resonance is what makes the song feel so deeply personal while still managing to speak to listeners on a broader scale.

About Nicki Richards

Nicki Richards’s has a talent for creating meaningful music, something that has ensured longevity in her music career.

From her early breakout on Star Search to her collaborations with legends like Madonna, Mariah Carey, and Whitney Houston, Nicki has consistently proven herself to be a creative force. Yet what really makes her music endure is the way she imbues it with her own experiences and insights, creating songs that are unique while also relatable.

“You Become More Beautiful” from Nicki Richards is a gift that will keep giving, long after the holiday season has passed.

Keep up with Nicki Richards on her Website.

Stream music on Spotify, and YouTube Music.

12.26.24

by Jane Lambert

The Flip Phones Strike Gold with Whimsical Indie-Pop Gem “It’s a Sign”

With their effervescent new single, “It’s a Sign,” The Flip Phones have created an indie-pop delight brimming with charm, quirk, and an unexpected dose of introspection.

Inspired by Los Angeles’ iconic Happy Foot/Sad Foot sign – a whimsical podiatry advertisement once used by locals to divine their daily fortunes – the track explores the thin line between taking charge of our lives and surrendering to fate and superstition.

Listen in here:

The duo, Lindsey and Ryan, blend instrumental talent with an unpretentious energy to create a sound that feels as timeless as it is refreshing.

Lindsey’s background as a classically trained pianist and flutist shines through in the lush textures of melodica and electric piano that weave throughout the song. Her lyrical storytelling brims with vibrant imagery and clever wit, while Ryan’s self-taught guitar stylings, steeped in influences like The Beatles and Blur, add a jangly, upbeat undercurrent that grounds the song’s playful tone.

This isn’t the first time Lindsey and Ryan have made musical magic together. Their earlier collaboration in North of Canada laid the foundation for the unique synergy that defines The Flip Phones.

Since forming their new project in 2013, they’ve honed their craft, releasing the well-received EP Better in the Dark in 2022 and building a reputation for vibrant live shows at festivals and celebrated mid-Atlantic venues like Jammin Java and Songbyrd.

Produced by Dave Mallen at Innovation Station Music, “It’s a Sign” radiates the energy of their live performances, while also showcasing a shift toward a more playful sound palette.

Influences from the B-52s and Gorillaz are clear, with the melodica lending a whimsical edge, yet the track retains the narrative depth and layered arrangements that have become their signature.

As the lead single for their upcoming EP Spinning Adrift (set to drop in spring 2025), “It’s a Sign” is both an irresistible and thought-provoking anthem for those caught between luck and intention. With its buoyant melodies and clever interplay between Lindsey and Ryan’s vocals, this is indie-pop at its finest.

Connect with The Flip Phones:

Website / Facebook / Instagram / Spotify / Soundcloud / YouTube Music

12.15.24

by Jane Lambert

Video Voyaguer: 3 Q’s with Sarah Pillow

Nestled just steps away from the dazzling lights of Times Square and the world-famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, Hell’s Kitchen offers a striking contrast to Midtown Manhattan’s holiday frenzy.

It’s a neighborhood that pulses with history, resilience, and creativity – a vibrant mix of artists, shopkeepers, and locals who form the backbone of its enduring charm.

In her latest holiday single music video, “Hell’s Kitchen at Christmas Time,” Sarah Pillow and the team at Buckyball Music captures the spirit of this unique corner of New York City.

Part love letter, part festive celebration, the video is a heartfelt tribute to the small businesses, quiet streets, and resilient community that make Hell’s Kitchen feel like home. Even as the chaos of the holidays unfolds just a few blocks away.

With playful nods to iconic New York traditions, from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to the glittering Fifth Avenue window displays, the video weaves together a narrative that celebrates both the hustle and the haven that define Hell’s Kitchen. Featuring a talented ensemble of musicians, actors, and local shopkeepers, it’s a project that shines a light on the people and places that keep the neighborhood alive.

Watch here:

We asked Sarah to tell us about the inspiration behind the song, the challenges of filming in the heart of Manhattan, and why shopping locally is more important than ever during the holiday season.

1.Tell us the story of this song, why did you choose to visualize this song specifically in this way?

I’ve lived in Hell’s Kitchen since 1996, and while the neighborhood has evolved over the years, it has managed to retain its unique charm. I was reading about how local businesses are struggling due to reduced foot traffic as more people turn to online shopping.

This inspired us to create a fun holiday video celebrating our neighborhood – the artists, the community, and the small businesses that make it special.

The holidays are an especially meaningful time here, as we’re right next door to one of the busiest places in the world during this season.

2.What was the inspiration behind this new video (visuals, storyline, etc.)?

We were inspired by the juxtaposition of our quiet neighborhood nestled right next to Times Square – the center of the world, especially during the holidays – which led to the lyric, “you’re in it all, but off to the side.”

The storyline follows me navigating the chaos of Midtown Manhattan – Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and Saks – while also highlighting the anchors of my neighborhood: Hudson River Park, Restaurant Row, and long-standing local businesses that have been part of the community for decades.

It’s a celebration of their resilience and enduring spirit.

3.What was the process of making the video?

We invited some actor friends to play the roles of crazy holiday shoppers and collaborated with our colleague Eliane Amherd – also a Hell’s Kitchen local – to play guitar and sing with me. For the horn section, we enlisted three excellent horn players who were students at the time (one has since joined the band of Saturday Night Live). The marching at the beginning of the video is a nod to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

We visited some of our favorite local businesses and asked if they’d like to participate, celebrating the importance of shopping locally.

We also wanted to feature the musicians, highlighting the artists and performers who make New York City so vibrant. Filming took place in our studio, along the West Side Highway, driving through the streets of Hell’s Kitchen, on our rooftop, and even in front of Saks Fifth Avenue (who were surprisingly cool about it). To add to the festive spirit, we included Manhattan holiday window displays in one segment of the song.

Hell’s Kitchen at Christmas Time

Sarah Pillow, vocals

Marc Wagnon, drums, percussion and vibraphone.

Eliane Amherd, guitar and vocals

Summer Camargo, trumpet

Coby Petricone-Berg, alto sax

Cole Palensky, tenor sax

Jonathan Price, bass

Holiday Shoppers:

Carol Scudder

Robert Arthur Altman

Justin Anderson Taylor

Thank you to these Hell’s Kitchen shopkeepers:

Garden Hardware, 10^th Avenue

Westside Animal Hospital, 10^th Avenue

Poseidon Bakery, 9^th Avenue

Sullivan Street Bakery, West 47^th Street

Thriftway Pharmacy, 10^th Avenue

Spoiled Brats, West 49^th Street

Fine and Dandy, West 49^th Street

Ismael Cruz, West 49^th Street Caretaker

Skyline Deli, 10^th Avenue

Find out more about Sarah Pillow on her Website

12.11.24

by Jane Lambert

Video Voyaguer: 3 Q’s with The IT City

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.

Connect with The IT City here:

Website / Facebook / Instagram / Spotify / Apple Music / YouTube Music

12.10.24

by Jane Lambert

Collin Derrick’s “Holiday Hallelujah” – Indie Pop Meets Festive Cheer in this Holiday Gem

Collin Derrick, the wildly uncool (his words), middle-aged indie pop maestro with a knack for turning life’s quirks into sonic joy, has struck gold with his latest single, “Holiday Hallelujah.”

This track, a centerpiece of his newly released EP Christmas, Vol. 2, is a jubilant celebration of all things festive, bringing classic holiday nostalgia together with Derrick’s signature modern indie pop sound.

Listen in here:

From the first notes, “Holiday Hallelujah” grabs your attention with its vibrant mix of jangly guitars, upright bass grooves, and shimmering sleigh bells. It’s a track that radiates the kitschy charm of Christmas Vacation and the timeless coziness of Burl Ives. The infectious hook, “Holiday Hallelujah,” is impossible to resist, daring you to sing along as the song builds to an exuberant finish.

Derrick wrote, recorded, produced, mixed, and even mastered the track himself, showing his talent as both artist and producer. Notably, Derrick picked up an upright bass for the first time and revisited his long-neglected drum skills to bring this song to life.

Beyond his holiday releases, Derrick has been carving out a unique space in the indie pop world.

He first gained attention with the quirky track “LaCroix LaCroix,” co-written with Grant Michaels (who has worked with Sia, SZA, and Weezer), and followed it up with the synth-laden single “You’re Magic.”

A former member of the prog piano trio The Fire Tonight, he toured the Southeast for 10 years, releasing three full-length albums and three EPs with the band. As a mix engineer, Collin has worked with Grammy-winners Jeff Coffin and Nir Felder as well as prominent artists like Offset, 2KBABY, and Quando Rondo. His production and co-writing credits include collaborations with Allyn Aston (Atlanta), Anne Reburn (Los Angeles), and Ivy Ash (London).

But Derrick’s holiday music holds a special place in his discography – and his heart. Inspired by his wife’s admittedly high standards for Christmas gifts, Derrick began writing her original holiday songs, a tradition that ultimately led to the Christmas series.

With Christmas, Vol. 2, he expands on the themes of joy and nostalgia, delivering a collection that resonates with listeners while still keeping it lighthearted and fun.

In “Holiday Hallelujah,” Derrick captures the essence of what makes the best holiday songs endure – nonsensical yet unforgettable lyrics, unrelenting cheer, and a sense of warmth that can melt even the coldest winter day.

It’s the perfect addition to a seasonal playlist, bringing a dose of indie charm to your holiday celebrations.

“Holiday Hallelujah” and the full EP, Christmas, Vol. 2, are available now on all major streaming platforms.

Connect with Collin Derrick on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube Music.

12.06.24

by Jane Lambert

“Hell’s Kitchen at Christmas Time” – A Soulful Holiday Tribute to New York City

“Hell’s Kitchen at Christmas Time” is a vivid and vibrant musical journey that celebrates the spirit of a New York neighborhood steeped in history and transformation.

Co-written by Sarah Pillow and Marc Wagnon, the track marries Pillow’s evocative, rich and genre defying vocals with Wagnon’s rhythms and textures, creating a holiday song that perfectly captures the magic of Hell’s Kitchen during this busy season.

Listen in here:

Sarah Pillow’s voice is the star of the song here. She offers a stunning blend of jazz sophistication, classical finesse and rich warmth. Her vocal delivery feels more like a conversation and draws the listener into her world that she paints with her words.

Pillow’s decades long connection to Hell’s Kitchen, where she has lived for nearly 30 years, imbues this song with an authentic edge. Her nuanced performance speaks of a deep love for the neighbourhood with each lyric having a personal touch.

Marc Wagnon’s arrangement brings this love letter to life with a rich, layered instrumental palette: the vibraphone glistens like freshly fallen snow, while his percussion adds a dynamic pulse that reflects the neighborhood’s ever-moving rhythm.

The brass section featuring Summer Camargo (trumpet), Coby Petricone-Berg (alto sax), and Cole Palensky (tenor sax) really infuses the song with warmth and vibrancy, echoing the bustling energy of Manhattan’s streets.

Eliane Amherd’s guitar provides a melodic anchor and balances the richness of the brass with a steady, grounding groove, while Jonathan Price’s bass ties it all together with depth.

The song’s lyrics are as much about Hell’s Kitchen as they are about the essence of the holidays. They capture the duality of the neighborhood: the electric buzz of midtown Manhattan softened by the quieter charm of brownstones adorned with festive lights and local cafes humming with life. It’s a place where the pulse of New York City merges with the heart of a close-knit community.

Lines like “in it all, but off to the side” speak to the unique identity of Hell’s Kitchen – a neighborhood that is part of the city’s relentless energy that retains its own quiet magic.

But where “Hell’s Kitchen at Christmas Time” transcends the typical holiday song is by offering a deeper narrative. It’s not just about twinkling lights or festive cheer – it’s about the people, the stories, and the ambience that make a neighborhood feel like home. The song reflects on the enduring spirit of Hell’s Kitchen, a place that has weathered decades of change while holding onto its identity.

You can almost see the snow-dusted streets, hear the muffled conversations in cozy cafés, and feel the unique warmth of a neighborhood that welcomes everyone.

“Hell’s Kitchen at Christmas Time” is a celebration of place, and a reminder of what makes the holidays special: community, tradition, and the ability to find wonder even in the most familiar corners.

About Sarah Pillow

Sarah Pillow is a vocalist celebrated for her extraordinary versatility, blending jazz, classical, and early music influences into a style uniquely her own.

A graduate of Oberlin College’s prestigious music program, Sarah began her career as a jazz singer and quickly expanded her repertoire, performing as a solo artist and collaborating with renowned ensembles across the United States and Canada. Her projects include a jazz quartet, the crossover ensemble Nuove Musiche, and the early music group Galileo’s Daughters.

Her distinctive voice – rich and vivid, praised by The Washington Post as “genuinely genre-busting” – has graced the stages of legendary venues like the Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall. Whether delivering an operatic aria or interpreting a jazz standard, she captivates audiences with her emotional depth and technical brilliance.

For nearly 30 years, Sarah has called Hell’s Kitchen home. This iconic New York City neighborhood is steeped in history and creativity and has been a profound source of inspiration for her work. From its roots as a gritty, working-class enclave to its evolution into a vibrant cultural hub, Hell’s Kitchen embodies the energy that Sarah channels into her music.

Sarah Pillow continues to redefine what it means to be an artist. Her work is a celebration of connection – between past and present, tradition and innovation, and the universal language of music.

Connect with Sarah Pillow here.

Stream music on Spotify, Apple Music, Soundcloud and YouTube Music.