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Acclaimed electronic powerhouse Ben Nicky and rising star Hix unveiled their collaborative and euphoric hit, ‘Sober’, featuring the outstanding vocalist Tori Smith, on April 11th under the renowned Armada record label, which has the illustrious legend himself, Armin van Buuren, as its founder. ‘Sober’ definitely captivates listeners with its blend of trance and dance-pop, combined with high-tempo production and a memorable vocal hook. The track thoughtfully explores the emotional complexities of intimacy and heartbreak, examining the protective mechanisms we create in response to vulnerability. By delving into themes of connection and detachment, it captures the contrast between fleeting encounters and sobering realities, symbolized through evocative imagery of dawn departures. Click ‘Play’ on the Spotify link below to stream ‘Sober’ from Ben Nicky, Hix, and Tori Smith, a track that hooks in listeners instantly to vibrant tempos that enhance dream-like emotions that occur through moments that anyone has encountered in their unique lives. Ben Nicky follows up on success from his most latest bangers Following the impressive success of ‘Dirty Rave’ and an official remix of Armin van Buuren’s iconic anthem, ‘Destination’, released earlier this year, Ben Nicky has solidified his brands, “Xtreme” and “Emotional Havoc”, as standout names in the dance music scene. “Xtreme” represent his hardstyle side while “Emotional Havoc” shows off his unique trance musical style. These brands consistently attract large audiences at iconic venues worldwide. Currently touring for 2025, Ben is on track to headline major festivals, including EDC Las Vegas, Creamfields, and Mysteryland, further establishing his status as one of the most sought-after DJs in the industry. Ben Nicky’s innovative approach has made him a genre-defining pioneer within electronic music. He has garnered praise from industry leaders like Diplo and Armin van Buuren while amassing over 100 million streams across hits such as ‘Heater’ and ‘Where Would We Be’. His groundbreaking performances have transformed the landscape of electronic music, including his remarkable achievement of being the first DJ to sell out Wembley Arena as a solo act in 2023. Notably, he is the only artist who presents multi-genre sets on major festival stages like Tomorrowland and Ultra Miami. Through his dynamic brands, “Xtreme” and “Emotional Havoc”, along with a strong social media presence, Ben fosters a global community that celebrates his innovative approach to electronic music. Hix continues to move upward in his already-illuminating career Belfast-based DJ and producer Hix has also made a significant impact in the electronic music scene. The rising star has received recognition as one of the most in-demand DJs on the island of Ireland, particularly for his exhilarating club sets. Following his record deal with Warner Records, he launched his career with the debut single, ‘Hold You’, in March 2022, receiving praise from both critics and fans. This was followed by his second single, ‘Oh No You Didn’t’, a collaboration with the respected Kelli-Leigh. With two Grammy nominations, two UK number-one singles, and three UK top 10 singles to her credit, Kelli-Leigh’s partnership with Hix underscores the upward trajectory of his burgeoning career. As Hix continues to release new music, his work is increasingly recognized on prominent radio stations across the UK and Ireland, including BBC Radio, Capital, Capital Dance, KISS, Hits Radio, Cool FM, RTÉ 2FM, Today FM, iRadio, Spin 1038, and others. This broad radio support solidifies his influence and growing reputation within the electronic music landscape. Hix describes the production process of ‘Sober’ alongside Ben Nicky and Tori Smith and how it brought out so much joy ‘Sober’ is the definition of an emotional banger for me. The euphoric production paired with Tori’s stunning vocal gives me goosebumps every time. I’ve been a fan and supporter of Ben’s music for years, so getting to finally work together on this track has been an absolute joy.” The post Ben Nicky, Hix, and Tori Smith Unleashed Euphoria in ‘Sober’ appeared first on EDMTunes.

Surf Mesa, the innovative artist from Seattle who currently is based in Los Angeles, teams up with DJ and producer John Alto to drop their new emotional ballad, ‘Holding On’. This collaboration has arrived today on Friday, April 18, 2025, through Breakaway Projects. Click ‘Play’ on the Spotify link below to stream ‘Holding On’ from Surf Mesa and John Alto, a track that perfectly merges the mellow musical style of the former with the upbeat bass-influenced production process of the latter. Feeling the stimulating energy of the sounds coming from Surf Mesa and John Alto in ‘Holding On’ The song kicks off with some amazing vocals before diving into John Alto’s heavy beats, perfectly mixed with Surf Mesa’s enchanting synths. The dreamy sound from Surf Mesa can pull the listeners in, while the solid bassline of John Alto keeps the energy flowing. ‘Holding On’ dives deep into the feelings of hopeless devotion, all while staying super catchy and groovy. One can really feel the duo’s creative vibe throughout the track as Alto ties together their unique styles, combining his strong basslines with Surf Mesa’s airy “aloe vera house” vibes. The song takes listeners to another world with its siren-like sounds, where soft vocals fade into echoes, then come alive with a mix of dark tones and cool synths. Furthermore, it captures raw emotion and energy, ready to light up dance floors from clubs to festivals. R O B I N B Ø E@robinboee Surf Mesa prepares for more exciting tour stops and attracting new fans with his musical style Surf Mesa has been riding high after a series of sold-out shows and is close to hitting 1 billion streams with his breakout hit, ‘ILY (I Love You Baby)’. He’s really making a name for himself in the dance music scene with his catchy melodic house sound. In fact, ‘Holding On’ is dropping at an exciting time for him, as he’s gearing up for a festival run at Breakaway Tampa, Breakaway Minnesota, and Lost In Dreams. This track is sure to be a go-to on dance floors everywhere during the festival season and beyond, marking a fresh chapter for both him and Breakaway Projects. John Alto is going on a roll after releasing top-charting tracks and touring prominent cities John Alto, who is 25 and has American, Italian, and Danish roots, grew up in Copenhagen and London, where he kicked off his music journey as a teenager, trying out different sounds. He made his debut on Martin Garrix’s famed imprint, STMPD RCRDS, by collaborating with the German duo TwoWorldsApart on their 2020 single, ‘Body Talk’. Now, he’s shaping his own space in the music world by blending dark atmospheric elements with heavy bass and emotional pop, making his sound stand out. After moving to Los Angeles, he fully focused on his music. After his 2024 hit with Alesso, ‘Lonely Heart’, John became the first artist signed to Alesso’s BodyHi label. Additionally, he spent the summer touring with him, hitting cities like Salt Lake City, San Francisco, and New York’s Brooklyn Navy Yard. 2025 is looking to be John Alto’s biggest year yet, starting with his single that he released on January 31st, ‘Do You Like Bass’, which has caught the attention of big names like John Summit and Disco Lines. With a bunch of exciting singles and collaborations coming up, he’s on the rise in the music scene. The post John Alto and Surf Mesa Elevates Groovy Synths in ‘Holding On’ appeared first on EDMTunes.

A tastemaker that takes over every stage she performs at, Indira Paganotto landed in California for a two-weekend performance in the desert at Coachella Music Festival. The Spanish DJ and producer leads a younger generation of artists with her influential Psy-Techno sound and her label ARTCORE Records. We chatted with “Psymama” herself after a long and hot day, where she debuted her high-speed and powerful melodies at the Yuma Tent. Shortly after, the ARTCORE label head joined HEKATE’s founder, Sara Landry, and EXHALE’s label lead, Amelie Lens, to make history during a surprise closing b2b2b at the DoLab stage during Weekend 1. EDMTunes: What was the preparation like for this set? Indira: I didn’t really change anything; no matter where I play, I always keep the preparation and vibe the same. I think it’s important to keep my style true to what I love. EDMTunes: Is it intimidating to bring your sound to a show you’re playing at for the first time? Indira: I didn’t feel intimidated, as I play a lot of shows in the US, and we have just had another two big ARTCORE showcases in New York and Miami, so I know we have people here that love the sound. But it’s nice to play somewhere new, as you never know who will end up discovering you for the first time. EDMTunes: Do you prepare differently for a festival set vs an ARTCORE showcase? Indira: As we take ARTCORE to festivals, it applies to whether we are playing a club or a festival. I always play a lot of ARTCORE tracks in all of my sets, so they work for any event. People know the sound of the label and therefore, I want them to be excited to hear the sound they support. EDMTunes: Can we expect an official release for that Sara Landry ft. LEGZDINA ‘Pressure’ remix? Indira: Yes, you can! The remix will be out in May, but we have yet to announce the date, so everyone needs to keep an eye on socials for that. “I think it’s important to keep my style true to what I love” Indira Paganotto EDMTunes WOW! The legendary Psymama b2b Sara Landry b2b Amelie Lens was an auditory banquet. How did it feel being part of the Blood Oath? Indira: WOW! What a moment for each of us, and also Coachella. It was amazing being part of an all-female b2b2b. I think that we really brought something new, exciting and full of energy for everyone to close out their Saturday during weekend 1. The crowd was with us the whole way, I loved it. EDMTunes Are you ready for your summer residency at Hi-Ibiza? Indira: Yes! We have come so much around this residency this summer, it’s been a very big but exciting project. What we are bringing to the club and the island is new, as my goal is to make the experience of going to a club opulent and sexy, rather than dark and sweaty. I think we will achieve this, having seen the booth and room designs. I can’t wait for everyone to see it on the 4th of July when we open. EDMTunes: In 3 words, describe what we can expect from your upcoming debut album? Indira: My life story Support Indira Paganotto and Artcore on socials, and check out her latest release below. The post [Interview] Indira Paganotto Discusses Her Electrifying Performance At Coachella And Her Upcoming Exciting Projects appeared first on EDMTunes.

Kevin de Vries teams up with Bigfett and vocalist Frýnn for ‘Crashing Down’, a new single released on April 18, 2025, via Ame Records. This track showcases de Vries’ signature melodic techno sound, blending emotive vocals with driving rhythms to create a compelling dancefloor experience. ‘Crashing Down’ opens with floating vocal layers that evolve into a hypnotic build, anchored by deep bass and precise percussion. The drop lands with impact, balancing melodic lift and rhythmic force—perfectly tuned for both festival mainstages and late-night warehouse floors. Fans can catch Kevin de Vries at several major events this year, including DGTL Lima on May 9, Ikarus Festival on June 6, Kappa FuturFestival on July 4, and Awakenings Festival on July 12. With fresh music and a packed global tour schedule, 2025 is already shaping up to be a major year for one of melodic techno’s most consistent artists. Listen to Kevin de Vries – Crashing Down below. The post Kevin de Vries Drops New Single ‘Crashing Down’ with Bigfett & Frýnn appeared first on EDMTunes.

Pop newcomer Jules Liesl is off to a rapid start. Her debut single “Cherry”, released via Halogen Entertainment, is already gaining traction in clubs and online alike—most recently at a packed-out release celebration at West Hollywood’s legendary Abbey. The energy in the room was palpable as the crowd danced, filmed, and sang along with the track, highlighting a rare early-career moment where an artist’s music immediately is finding it’s audience early on. Watch the clip here. Liesl – originally from a small town and now based in California – has quickly built a digital audience of over 11 million views across TikTok and Instagram, gaining attention for her unapologetic style and infectious performance energy. Her live schedule is already filling up, with appearances at Miami Pride and Winter Party placing her squarely in the spotlight of LGBTQ+ nightlife and dance culture. The single “Cherry” brings together elements of early-2000s dance-pop and contemporary club production. Bold and rhythm-forward, the track delivers a fast-fueled sound designed for the dancefloor while maintaining an very present personality placed in the music. Produced with a polished, high-gloss finish, it’s already being picked up by DJs, radio stations, and playlists – with a full remix package is on the way, featuring Grammy-nominated and internationally known producers including Mousse T, James Hurr, and Birdee. “Cherry” also plays a key role in the upcoming season of America’s Top Choreographer, where it will be the featured track in a dedicated episode. Liesl is set to appear as a guest judge alongside choreographer Richard Jackson, best known for his creative work with Lady Gaga. Backed by Halogen’s Phoenix Stone and Sybil Hall – industry veterans known for working behind the scenes with names like The Backstreet Boys, HAIM, and Maty Noyes – Liesl is entering with both talent and serious support behind her. Her early performances, digital momentum, and first official single suggest that “Cherry” is only the beginning of what could be one of 2025’s most compelling breakout stories. The post JULES LIESL Rises Fast with Packed Shows, 11M+ TikTok Views, and Debut Single ‘Cherry’ appeared first on EDMTunes.

Afrotech talents Alex Wann and Shimza have teamed up for their new single ‘Skill of Love’, releasing today via Helix Records. Listen below. Premiered during their back-to-back at Miami Music Week and later performed at the Pyramids of Giza, the track blends atmospheric vocals with uplifting piano chords and a tense, evolving bassline. The result is a restrained yet emotional piece that reflects both artists’ distinctive styles. Alex Wann, known for his breakout track ‘Milkshake’, continues his rise with performances at Tomorrowland, Pacha Ibiza, and CRSSD, alongside recent collaborations and remixes supported by names like Adriatique and RÜFÜS DU SOL. Shimza, one of South Africa’s leading Afrotech exports, builds on his global presence with his Kunye label and shows alongside Black Coffee, CamelPhat, and more. His ‘Karma Karma’ radio show now reaches over a million listeners weekly. ‘Skill of Love’ showcases the subtle power of Afrotech—emotive, groove-driven, and built for both intimate and expansive stages. The post Alex Wann & Shimza Release New Afrotech Single ‘Skill of Love’ appeared first on EDMTunes.

Photo Credit: Joel Katz, courtesy of the Katz family Powerful longtime music attorney Joel Katz, whose clients included James Brown, B.B. King, Willie Nelson, and the Recording Academy, has passed away. He was 80 years old. Joel Katz was the founding chairman of the entertainment and media practice at top law firm Greenberg Traurig, and was heavily involved in the Recording Academy and Country Music Association. He negotiated major deals for both. Katz represented artists like James Brown, Willie Nelson, Michael Jackson, and Senator Orrin Hatch, and oversaw the $300 million purchase of Big Machine Records by Scooter Braun’s Ithaca Holdings in 2018. No cause of death was cited, but reports say he died “peacefully at home, with his wife Rikki by his side.” Katz spent decades as one of the most high-powered attorneys in the music business, where he negotiated the Recording Academy’s $600 million 10-year agreement with CBS for the Grammys. That deal ends next year, as the Grammys move to their new home at Disney. He was also a prominent figure in Michael Jackson’s estate’s $750 million sale of its stake in Sony/ATV Publishing. He resigned from Greenberg Traurig at the end of 2020 and was nominally retired. But he continued his work as a top-level player for artists like Justin Timberlake, Jimmy Buffett, George Jones, Kris Kristofferson, Jamie Foxx, George Strait, Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw, and Faith Hill, as well as the Recording Academy and numerous executives. In 2016, he was honored with the City of Hope’s Spirit of Life Award, joining such prominent figures as Irving Azoff, Coran Capshaw, and Lucian Grainge. “The architect is gone, but the blueprint he left behind — of boldness and belief in his clients — will shape this industry forever,” said longtime client Jason Owen, CEO of The Sandbox. “Joel was my friend, my champion, and a once-in-a-lifetime force. He believed in me before I believed in myself. I will miss his laugh, his wit, and his ability to bill me back for 15 minute conversations. I loved him like family and will miss him every single day.” Part of the Northside Parkway in Atlanta is known as Joel Katz Parkway due to his contributions to the state of Georgia as an Atlanta resident. At the University of Georgia campus at Kennesaw State University, he launched a commercial music program that now includes over 500 students. He also led philanthropic endeavors in education and in cancer research. Katz worked extensively with programs like the Recording Academy’s Grammy in the Schools Program, the Atlanta Downtown Partnership’s Music Industry Symposium, and many lectures and panels for the Entertainment and Sports Industry Forum of the ABA, and the Entertainment and Sports Law Section of the State Bar of Georgia. In February 2024, he was honored with a Recording Academy Trustee Award in recognition of his contributions to the field of recording. View the full article

Words by Alex Lambeau, Zach Salafia, and Ross Goldenberg. Mary Droppinz – Drop In Freshly removed from an appearance at Coachella’s famed Do LaB — where she appeared alongside the likes of Sara Landry, Amelie Lens, Indira Paganotto, and more as part of Landry’s BLOOD OATH takeover this past Saturday — Mary Droppinz has returned with her refreshing brand of bass music on her latest single. “Drop In” lands as the debut release on Zeds Dead’s Deadbeats for the first of four Dancing Astronaut Artists to Watch in 2025 included in this week’s release roundup. LUSU – Siren EP The second Dancing Astronaut Artist to Watch in 2025 to highlight this week is LUSU, who return to Eli Brown’s Arcane label with a two-track EP. The duo — comprised of Wiwek and Mike Cervello — has been making a name for themselves with a unique combination between high-energy, melodic, and futuristic-sounding techno, with their Sinner offering continuing to reaffirm that. They’ve already gained the support of esteemed labels like the aforementioned Arcane as well as Adam Beyer’s Drumcode and HI-LO’s HILOMATIK. John Alto & Surf Mesa – Holding On John Alto is the third Dancing Astronaut Artist to Watch in 2025 to offer something new this week. And Alto did it alongside a Dancing Astronaut Artist to Watch alumni, Surf Mesa. After delivering “Do You Like Bass” back in January via Alesso’s newly minted label Body Hi, Alto doubles his 2025 release tally with “Holding On,” a collaboration he said came together “so naturally” and offers a seamless intertwining of his heavier approach with Surf Mesa’s melodic taste. Aaron Hibell & Dan Heath – Odyssey The final Dancing Astronaut Artist to Watch in 2025 Aaron Hibell continues to show off his signature brand of cinematic electronic music on his latest sonic output, “Odyssey.” Together with composer Dan Heath, Hibell was tasked with creating the soundtrack to Cercle’s upcoming Odyssey experience. The record, tabbed “the heartbeat of the entire [Odyssey] project,” is out now via Cercle Records ahead of Hibell’s opening for Ben Böhmer in Paris for Cercle Odyssey on June 1. Disfreq – Raw Motion EP Disfreq have returned with a four-track offering via Solomun’s esteemed imprint, Diynamic. The Irish pair have been steadily climbing the ranks, earning coveted live support from the likes of Solomun, Anyma, CamelPhat, Innellea, and many more. Their Raw Motion EP continues to solidify their status as one of dance music’s most exciting duos, showcasing their dynamic production range. And while all four EP cuts are worth noting, t’s the standout track “Sweat” that’s undeniably destined to dominate dance floors in the coming months. As the summer season kicks into full swing, the dance music world should expect Disfreq’s signature sound to be echoing in every corner. AYYBO & Taylr Renee – Obsession Our in-person live introduction to AYYBO came at the tail end of 2024 when he appeared at Proper NYE, and his 2025 thus far has only reconfirmed why his dance music stock has continually skyrocketed over the past year. Ahead of his two-show day in Brooklyn on April 19, that pattern now extends with his Experts Only debut. Aptly titled “Obsession,” AYYBO’s second release of the year — following “Demon Time” — had already been a staple in his sets before picking up steam when the label boss began to add it into his tracklists earlier this year. Featuring what he described as a “unique and haunting” vocal from Taylr Renee, “Obsession” puts AYYBO’s distinct brand of house on full display. Dom Dolla & Kid Cudi – Forever Dom Dolla and Kid Cudi met in the studio with the intention of writing “the happiness song [they’ve] ever done.” The result is “Forever,” a nostalgic collaboration that serves as the latest installment in Cudi’s rare but impactful forays into the world dance music. Originally debuted live during the first of two sold-out evenings for Dom Dolla at Madison Square Garden — with Cudi also joining during night two and during the Brooklyn Storehouse afterparty — “Forever” channels the euphoric energy of the early 2010s era of dance music, paying homage to the era that catapulted the genre into the mainstream eye. Featured image: Dom Dolla/Facebook The post Dancing Astronaut’s New Music Friday: April 18, 2025 appeared first on Dancing Astronaut.

Photo Credit: Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix Atlantic Records and Hard Rock International are curating the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix with chart-topping EDM artists heading the bill. South Florida Motorsports (SFM), organizers of the Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix, have announced along with founding partner and music lineup curator Hard Rock International and Atlantic Records, a weekend filled with live music and entertainment for the event’s fourth year. Taking place from May 2-4 in Miami Gardens, the event features such artists as Kygo, Pitbull, Tiësto, Kaskade, Sofi Tukker, and Cedric Gervais to keep the party going all weekend. Hard Rock International will host its Hard Rock Beach Club for a trackside day club experience with chart-topping artists once again. International dance music superstar Kygo will kick off the race weekend with an uplifting dance set on Friday, May 2, followed by DJ and electronic music icon Kaskade on Saturday, May 3. On race day, Sunday, May 4, Grammy Award-winning artist and Miami native Pitbull will keep the trackside party going. Adding to the lineup is DJ and dance music producer Tiësto, who will perform on the starting grid and post-race podium on Sunday, May 4, igniting the crowd with his iconic sound before the race begins and after it ends. The set will be broadcast live across the entire Miami International Autodrome Campus. Award-winning artist Maffio will take over on Saturday for the sounds ahead of the Sprint. Before lights out on Sunday, fans will be treated to a heartwarming rendition of the US National Anthem performed by a talented local student from nearby Fort Lauderdale. 14-year-old King Bell, who has previously performed at Hard Rock Stadium for the Miami Dolphins, will sing a stirring version of the anthem to a global TV audience of millions. Currently a freshman at North Broward Preparatory School, he is also a member of Broward Center Spotlights and has been performing since he was six years old. The pre-race grid ceremonies will also feature a performance by Justin Quiles, showcasing the dance and music styles of the diverse Miami culture. “As we continue to build on the incredible energy and cultural vibrancy of Miami, we’re thrilled to offer fans an unforgettable weekend that blends world-class racing with top-tier music performances,” says Tyler Epp, President of the Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix. “With a talented local artist singing the National Anthem, DJ Tiësto taking over the starting grid and podium, and global superstars like Kygo, Pitbull, Kaskade, and others performing at Hard Rock Beach Club, we’re delivering an experience that captures the essence of Miami’s music scene alongside the speed and excitement of Formula 1.” “Hard Rock is thrilled to curate another energy-packed lineup for a nonstop party at the Hard Rock Beach Club,” adds Keith Sheldon, President of Entertainment and Brand Management at Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming. “We’re continuing to elevate the experience with incredible music that brings fans back year after year.” View the full article

Photo Credit: CNN Diddy requests the video footage of him brutally beating Cassie Ventura to be excluded from evidence at his trial, claiming it has been manipulated. Sean “Diddy” Combs has requested the hotel video footage that showed him beating ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura be excluded from evidence at his trial. The disgraced music mogul and his team claim the footage, which was released by CNN in May last year, has been manipulated. “Mr. Combs seeks to exclude all available video files related to an incident from March 5, 2016, in the Intercontinental Hotel,” his lawyers wrote in a 15-page motion, which was submitted to the US Southern District Court of New York on Thursday. “There is no longer any dispute that the CNN footage from March 5, 2016, at the Intercontinental Hotel, offered by the government at three separate bail hearings, is wholly inaccurate, having been altered, manipulated, sped-up, and edited to be out of sequence,” they claim. “CNN paid [redacted] for footage, copied that footage in unknown ways, presented that footage out of order, and destroyed the original. Accordingly, all the footage from CNN is inaccurate and inadmissible as well.” Combs’ team also requested a pre-trial hearing to “present testimony and video evidence” from a forensic video analyst, Conor McCourt, “so that the court can better understand the ways in which each of the available videos are unreliable and not a fair and accurate reflection of the actions depicted.” CNN denies all claims of manipulate footage, asserting that none of the footage was ever altered. “CNN never altered the video and did not destroy the original copy of the footage, which was retained by the source,” said a CNN spokesperson. “We aired the story about the video several months before Combs was arrested.” Combs’ trial begins on May 12, with jury selection beginning on May 5. A New York City judge has denied his request to delay the federal trial by two months, determining there should have been ample time for his team to prepare. Diddy has been charged with five counts of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transportation to engage in prostitution. He has pled not guilty to all charges. View the full article

Photo Credit: Infinite Reality Hot on the heels of its $207 million Napster acquisition, Infinite Reality has announced the acquisition of AI company Touchcast for $500 million in a combination of cash and stock. The acquisition is Infinite Reality’s largest yet and the transaction agreement values the company at $15.5 billion. Touchcast’s powerful agentic AI platform, known as Mentorverse, generates an infinite universe of specialized AI mentors who engage in natural face-to-face video conversations, and unlike traditional chatbots or static web experiences, combine consistent personalities with deep domain expertise to deliver genuinely helpful guidance through multimodal interactions. The integration of Touchcast’s technology across Infinite Reality’s portfolio of products and services will enable IR customers to tap AI agents for a number of tasks that drive user engagement, customer support, and sales. For example, within Napster, Touchcast tech will enable subscribers to easily generate immersive social listening spaces and leverage knowledgeable AI agents for music playlisting, community management, and music trivia among other engaging features. Touchcast is built on OpenAI and delivered on Microsoft Azure via a $50 million strategic partnership that provides a suite of groundbreaking AI delivery systems to improve response times for AI interaction. For businesses, this means the delivery of seamless, human-like experiences while boosting efficiency and reducing costs—a vital edge in today’s competitive digital landscape. Touchcast’s platform is turning what once required entire teams and years of work into one-click solutions with multiple products ranging from AI mentors to transforming websites into interactive AI experiences and more. The company holds 27 patents related to AI and interactive video technology, including systems for coordinated presentations, video conferencing enhancements, and intelligent virtual assistant systems. “The acquisition of Touchcast marks our largest transaction thus far, and represents a perfect continuation of our strategic growth trajectory, building on the momentum from the iconic Napster acquisition and recent $3 billion funding round,” says Amish Shah, Co-Founder and Chief Business Officer, Infinite Reality. “The addition of Touchcast’s agentic AI technology serves as a powerful building block for our platform as we look to provide our customers with the tools they need to succeed in the modern AI-powered era.” View the full article

Roblox is facing a copyright infringement lawsuit centering on the viral ‘Apple Dance.’ Photo Credit: Oberon Copeland A copyright infringement battle over dance moves? TikToker Kelley Heyer has named Roblox Corporation in a lawsuit centering on its emote for the viral “Apple Dance.” The self-described artist and creator Heyer submitted the straightforward complaint to a California federal court, naming Roblox as the sole defendant. As laid out in the eight-page suit, the plaintiff “created and choreographed the viral Apple Dance” last summer. Set to the Charli XCX track of the same name, the dance is said to have made its way onto TikTok in an upload from Heyer on June 15th, 2024. And at least according to the filing party, the Apple Dance took off from there; a multitude of posts and the better part of a year later, Coachella attendees did the apple last weekend. Evidently, though, there’s more to the “Apple Dance” story than a nice bit of promotion for Charli XCX (as well as Warner Music) and an advantageous wave of exposure for Heyer, who looks to have attended the VMAs. Per the legal text, the dance is a “work of authorship” resulting from “Heyer’s ingenuity, creativity and artistry; it is literally her brainchild.” Roblox purportedly contacted the plaintiff “to license her viral Apple Dance as an emote.” And Heyer allegedly consented to the usage on August 12th pending “an executed agreement on the license terms.” It probably goes without saying in light of the suit, but this executed agreement doesn’t seem to have materialized. Instead, Roblox allegedly began selling the dance emote on August 17th “while engaged in active negotiation with Heyer.” Heyer claims to have “submitted her copyright registration application in the Apple Dance” on August 30th, before negotiations with Roblox “ground to a halt” in November, according to the action. Incidentally, November also saw Roblox cease selling the emote, the suit indicates. While the emote was available via Roblox, it sold an astonishing 60,000 “units” to generate around $123,000, the complaint estimates. “Notably,” the text claims, “other similar entertainment platforms, such as Fortnite and Netflix, HAVE licensed (following extensive negotiation and full execution) the Apple Dance for emote or skin release, PRIOR to commercial exploitation of such.” Suing for copyright infringement as well as unjust enrichment, Heyer is seeking damages, a piece of Roblox’s Apple Dance profits, and more. In a statement, a Roblox spokesperson told DMN that the company is confident about “the propriety of its dealings in this matter.” “As a platform powered by a community of creators,” the Roblox rep said to DMN, “Roblox takes the protection of intellectual property very seriously and is committed to protecting intellectual property rights of independent developers and creators to brands and artists both on and off the platform. Roblox is confident in its position and the propriety of its dealings in this matter and looks forward to responding in court.” View the full article

Photo Credit: Miami Worldcenter Downtown Miami’s cultural landscape is about to reach new heights as Miami Worldcenter celebrates its grand opening. The $6 billion mixed-use destination will celebrate with a free, star-studded concert and block party on May 22. The event is a showcase of international talent and a testament to Miami’s growing stature as a global music and entertainment hub. The evening’s programming will kick off with Lee Greenwood singing “God Bless the U.S.A.” to set a patriotic tone before the stage ignites with performances by superstars including Flo Rida, Nicky Jam, and Shaggy. The night culminates in a high-energy block party set by Swedish DJ and producer Alesso. Miami’s own DJ Irie and DJ Scotty B will host. Beyond the free concert, the event is a strategic platform for Miami Worldcenter’s 300,000 square feet of retail, dining, and lifestyle experiences. Attendees will enjoy immersive street activations, food and beverage tastings, and experiential performances throughout the 27-acre pedestrian-friendly development. The grand opening official sponsors include Openbank by Santander, Ray-Ban, CitizenM, Lucky Strike, E11EVEN Vodka, Nestlé, and Rentyl Resorts. Admission is free with RSVP, making the event accessible to the public. The location at 850 NE 2nd Avenue is transit-friendly with nearby access to Brightline, Metrorail, Tri-Rail, and Metromover as well as ample parking available in adjacent garages. Anyone interested in attending the grand opening concert should RSVP through Eventbrite. Doors open at 6 pm and the concert will begin at 7:30 pm. Miami Worldcenter was brought to life by master plan developers Miami Worldcenter Associates, led by Managing Partners Art Falcone and Nitin Motwani, in partnership with Los Angeles-based CIM Group, a community-focused real estate and infrastructure owner, operator, lender, and developer. Together they have assembled a best-in-class development team that is transforming Miami’s urban core into one of the country’s largest mixed-use lifestyle destinations. View the full article

UK house music titans Gorgon City, the duo comprised of Kye Gibbon and Matt Robson-Scott, have dropped their latest single, ‘Run It Back,’ just in time to soundtrack the approaching warmer months. Released today (April 18, 2025), via their own REALM Records imprint, the track marks their second offering of the year and continues their prolific run following the 2024 album, Reverie. ‘Run It Back’ features the captivating vocals of Caroline Byrne, a collaborator who previously lent her talents to the track ‘All That You Need’ from Gorgon City’s Reverie album. Byrne’s contribution is once again a highlight, infusing the song with what the duo describes as an “authentic garagey, R&B feel.” Her voice glides smoothly over the production, adding a layer of soulful warmth. Musically, the single is a quintessential Gorgon City creation, blending their signature bass-driven house sound with infectious energy. Described as a “nostalgic, feel-good banger” and a “sun-drenched single,” ‘Run It Back’ leans into a vibrant, grooving house style. It strikes an effective balance, delivering lush melodies and a catchy chorus that feels both ready for radio play and cool enough for underground club sets. The track embodies a sense of looking back with affection while keeping feet firmly on the dancefloor. It’s built for repeat listens, capturing a bright, optimistic mood perfect for ushering in summer vibes. With ‘Run It Back,’ Gorgon City demonstrates their consistent ability to craft high-quality, memorable house anthems that resonate with their global fanbase. The post Gorgon City Kicks Off The Summer Season With ‘Run It Back’ appeared first on EDMTunes.

Five years after its initial rejection, a father-son LEGO tribute to electronic music legends Daft Punk has evolved into a creation that could soon sit on store shelves worldwide. The pyramid stage that defined the robots' groundbreaking "Alive 2007" tour may soon be manufactured as an official LEGO set thanks to the persistence of Patrick Harboun and his son. The duo's stunning design, a meticulous recreation of the stage containing over 2,000 bricks, won the Grand Prize in LEGO's global "Music To Our Ears!" competition back in 2020 but was passed over for commercial production. However, it has now earned a second chance at immortality in plastic after receiving the requisite 10,000 public votes on LEGO's Ideas platform to advance in the company's approval process and face its notoriously exacting Review Board. Patrick Harboun The genesis of Harboun's project speaks to the peculiar alchemy of lockdown creativity. While others baked sourdough or discovered Peloton, the father-son team channeled their shared Daft Punk obsession into LEGOs. His son, eight years old at the time, built a prototype cobbled together from his existing brick collection before the elder Harboun used his engineering background to expand the concept digitally. At its heart, the design features a rotating transparent-brick box nestled inside the iconic pyramid, powered by a motor with hanging lights that recreate the pulsing light show that accompanied tracks like "One More Time" and "Around the World" during Daft Punk's career-defining tour. It's a fitting tribute to a tandem whose aesthetic sensibility has always straddled the line between retrofuturism and meticulous attention to detail, qualities that LEGO's own design philosophy mirrors with uncanny similarity. Patrick Harboun Should the project survive LEGO's rigorous review process, which scrutinizes everything from "playability" and safety to brand alignment, it will enter development later this year. Every potential LEGO product goes through this process and must meet the same standards, according to the company. If approved, the set will enter the Development phase, the longest stage of the process. During this time, LEGO's model designers will refine the concept and prepare it for release while the team develops all supporting materials, including packaging, instructions and marketing assets. The final verdict will be made and announced toward the end of 2025, Harboun tells EDM.com. As the robots themselves might put it, he and his son are "doin' it right" the second time around. The LEGO review process will officially begin in May 2025. You can find out more about the project here.

Dabin has once again captivated the electronic music landscape with his fourth studio album, Aura Park. Dropping a week ahead of his highly anticipated second annual Stay In Bloom festival at Stanford, CA this multi-talented instrumentalist and producer delivers his most sonically diverse and emotionally stirring project to date, a collection of thirteen tracks that individually have its own “aura“, a unique emotion, a different energy. Aura Park is Dabin’s love letter to the music that’s shaped him as an artist and dedicated to all his fans that’ve been with him on his musical journey. Aura Park marks a significant evolution for Dabin, showcasing his signature melodic bass foundation while fearlessly venturing into an ever-widening spectrum of styles and genres. The album has already generated buzz with its compelling singles, including the introspective ‘Hollow‘ and the powerfully emotive ‘I See You’ featuring the iconic vocals of Skylar Grey. These tracks highlight Dabin’s ability to transcend the traditional EDM boundaries, crafting music that remains authentically his while drawing in fans of pop, rock, and indie music alike. Aura Park brings in an impressive roster of collaborators, each adding their unique flavor to the tapestry of Aura Park. Featuring the talents of FRND, Said The Sky, Grabbitz, Blanke, Lo Spirit, Tiffany Day, Frosttop, and more, the album showcases not only Dabin’s multifaceted influences but also the creative synergies of those around him. The album feels like a deeply personal and introspective masterpiece, laced with intense emotions from every artist involved. Dabin’s music is always meant to uphold a safe sanctuary where listeners can find solace and connection, offering a little something for everyone who steps inside its welcoming gates. With its blend of familiar melodic brilliance and bold stylistic exploration of genres, Aura Park is a testament of Dabin’s growth and we’re all excited to see how his “aura” continues to grow. Here’s what Dabin took to Instagram to say about this album: “Aura Park is a culmination of both the old and new me. Each track represents a different “aura”, a unique emotion, a different energy… My hope is that everyone who listens can find their “aura” within one of these songs. Whether you’ve been here since the beginning or you’re just discovering the music, I’m so excited to finally share this with you.” Next week is the second edition of Dabin’s Stay in Bloom festival in Standford, CA and the following month is the debut of Stay in Bloom in New York. Come experience Aura Park at the festival and see for yourself the Aura sanctuary that Dabin has built for his fans. Dabin is a JUNO nominated music producer/instrumentalist from Toronto. Having spent his teens learning to play the piano, drums and guitar, Dabin started producing electronic music in 2011. He quickly attracted the attention of Kannibalen Records and released his first tracks on the ever growing independent label only a year later. Now Dabin has increased his exposure by supplementing releases with Mr. Suicide Sheep’s Vancouver label, Seeking Blue. Dabin has gained hundreds of millions of plays while refining his musical style into what it is today. His “Wild Youth” LP has seen Dabin solidify his signature sound which blends acoustic elements with electronic ones through a dance-pop lense, while his “Between Broken” LP further evolved his creative output. His high level of musicality has caught the ears of collaborators including Seven Lions, SLANDER, Said the Sky and Black Tiger Sex Machine, as well as Illenium who Dabin has collaborated with for “Hearts On Fire” and numerous tours together as a live band. Now, Dabin has formed his own Sanctuary Live Band alongside members including Grabbitz that debuted in 2023. Dabin will also continue his unique live solo show at venues and festivals across the globe, including his very own festival, Stay In Bloom, which sold out its inaugural weekend and will return for 2025 in both the bay area and Brooklyn. The post Dabin Unveils Fourth Studio Album ‘Aura Park’: An Aura Sanctuary For All appeared first on EDMTunes.

Techno titan Enrico Sangiuliano, known for his melodic/driving production, has just released Discipline EP on his NINETOZERO Imprint. This 3 track release includes tracks from Secret Cinema & About Sofiya (‘You Know What I Was Thinking’) and Zimmz (We Build And Reset’) who join Enrico Sangiuliano alongside Charlotte de Witte, Antonio d’Africa, Mattia Saviolo, GMS, Alex Lentini, STOMP BOXX for a release on NINETOZERO. Listen here. ‘The Techno Code’ (Enrico Sangiuliano ) is both a manifesto and a commentary on techno itself, with a portentous voiceover announcing ‘“These are my rules – the Techno Code.” The Voice takes us through a march of kick drum & hi-hats, the subtly captivating main theme with its melodic synths, a dash of acid, before all elements converge in a powerful surge. ‘We Build And Reset’ is from Rotterdam’s enigmatic talent Zimma. Featuring a complex beat with building static hiss, melodic pulsating synth layers in an upbeat, bounding main theme adorned with fuzzy stabs and spacey swoops. ‘You Know What I Was Thinking’ is from Dutch luminary Secret Cinema & Japanese artist About Sofiya. The track is an intriguing soundscape invoking imagery of some alien factory still functioning in an overgrown planet – percussion breaks, bongo-like ear candy, machine-like synth strands, occasional vibrato female vocal whispering sweet nothings. The post Enrico Sangiuliano ‘Discipline’ EP appeared first on EDMTunes.

Barkin is back with his 2nd record of the year. Off the heels of his Hexagon debut with ‘Percolator’ comes ‘Soak It In’ out on 2Dutch Records. The energetic house track takes influence from both the Bass and Tech House genres. The breaks feature sultry and inviting female vocals that pull you in. The track has a simple message: soak in and soak up every moment that you can. And of course, enjoy it. The drops feature a groovy bassline and punchy drums. While the bassline is plucky, it has these nice, smoother moments. Little ear candy synths come in and out, giving your ears all they can handle. Falsetto and spicy vocals join the drop halfway through, reinforcing the moment. A driving 2nd break and even bigger tension-filled build open the doors to the 2nd drop with a cheeky fakeout. ‘Soak It In’ shows off Barkin’s signature producing skills. He blends genres, taking influence from the more bass-dominant side of dance music. The New York born and raised producer is bringing heat to House. Make sure to check it out below! The post Barkin Drops Groovy and Sultry House Track ‘Soak It In’ appeared first on EDMTunes.

The future is now. Alvin Lucier died in 2021, yet he is still making music. How, you ask? A team of artists and scientists have joined forces to create a lab-grown ‘mini-brain’ made from the blood cells of the American experimental composer. His resurrected brain is currently making music at an exhibition in Australia. The project is known as Revivification and is hosted at the Art Gallery of Western Australia in Perth. Admission is free until August 3rd. Lucier led the way in neurological sound generation. His 1965 work ‘Music for Solo Performer’ made him the first composer to use brainwaves to make music. The video and experience feel way ahead of its time. The Revivification team began talking to Lucier in 2018, and he eventually agreed to donate his blood in 2020. At age 89, he was sadly suffering from Parkinson’s disease. He met with the team comprising artists Guy Ben-Ary, Matt Gingold, and Nathan Thompson, and neuroscientist Stuart Hodgetts, every night over Zoom. The process involved advanced neuroscience, reprogramming his white blood cells into stem cells, which were then transformed into 3D cell structures that imitate brain activity known as cerebral organoids. These organoids are now inside a sculpture which houses 20 brass plates that are connected to the two ‘in vitro brains’. The Guardian reports: “Importantly, Lucier’s organoids don’t just produce sound – they also receive it. Microphones in the gallery pick up ambient noise, including human voices and the resonant tones of the plates, and that audio data is converted into electrical signals and fed back into the brain.” This has raised ethical questions about the use of artificial intelligence. It doesn’t seem like it will be very long before it is available to the public in various ways. The post Artificial “Brain” Grown From Composer’s Blood is Making Music After His Death appeared first on EDMTunes.

Dutch producer Laidback Luke has consistently proven his ability to evolve and surprise, and his latest offering, ‘1000 BPM,’ is no exception. Teaming up with the formidable bass house force Nostalgix, Luke delivers a raw and hard-hitting tech house monster that lives up to its audacious name. Out now on Dim Mak Records, this track is a chaotic, BPM-shifting journey that will leave listeners breathless. ‘1000 BPM’ wastes no time establishing its stomping groove. Punchy drums and a driving bassline lay the foundation for a hypnotic vocal hook, courtesy of Nostalgix’s vocal delivery The energy steadily builds, promising an explosive release. But what happens next is anything but predictable. True to its moniker, the track throws a curveball with a wild tempo switch, spiraling into a drop that plunges the listener into a high-octane frenzy. Nostalgix’s vocals slice through the production, acting as a powerful anchor amidst the shifting BPMs. Her confident delivery perfectly complements the track’s relentless energy, making this track a certified party-starter. Luke reflects on the track, “I enjoyed being physically with Nostalgix when creating this collab. I was so impressed by how organized and fluid she is in the studio. Pushing production boundaries and taking the track to an actual 1000 BPM after I jokingly said that she only plays high BPM stuff. When we figured out the lyrics for it, everything fell in place. We’ve got your hot-girl bloghouse anthem right here!” Nostalgix adds; “1000 BPM is all about being in your party girl era—living in the moment, letting loose, and prioritizing fun above everything else. It’s about dancing with your friends, not caring what anyone thinks, and just enjoying life. Making this with Luke was such a blast! He’s insanely talented, and we instantly clicked in the studio.” The post Laidback Luke & Nostalgix Release Bold Tech House Banger ‘1000 BPM’ appeared first on EDMTunes.

Defected Records is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated rework of Noir & Haze’s seminal deep house track ‘Around’ by the renowned Italian trio, MEDUZA. The updated version of this certified Defected staple is set to drop on April 18th, promising to inject a fresh, techy energy into a beloved classic. Initially released in the early 2010s, a golden era for house music, ‘Around’ quickly became an underground sensation, particularly Solomun’s iconic Vox remix, which dominated dance floors throughout 2011. The track garnered support from influential DJs such as Deetron, Jimpster, and Adam Port, solidifying its place in house music history. Now, MEDUZA, the most prominent streaming Italian artist in history, renowned for their chart-topping hits and electrifying performances on the world’s most prestigious stages, including Creamfields, Detroit’s Movement Festival, and DJ Mag’s #1 club Hï Ibiza in 2024, brings their signature sound to ‘Around’. Their rework infuses the track with a hard-hitting, tech-driven intensity, characterized by stadium-ready builds and euphoric releases guaranteed to ignite their massive global fanbase. Noir expressed his excitement for the new rendition: “I’ve heard many bootlegs, mashups, and remixes of ‘Around’ over the years. It’s hard to top the amazing Solomun and Subb-an remixes originally released in 2011, but nothing hit me like those remixes did. We briefly considered making a new original version and release of the song when it turned 10, but it didn’t feel right at the time.” He continued, “It wasn’t until I heard MEDUZA’s take on the song that I felt inspired. Their version was such a fresh take on the original that it made me wanna produce a new version of the song too. I think their chords and structure of the song are super cool, and it quite simply inspired me to sit down and rethink the song and make an entirely new version from scratch. It’s not an anniversary release (14 years old this year) or any clever timing. This time around, it just feels right. Sounds right.” MEDUZA has already been teasing its rework in recent sets, generating significant buzz amongst its followers on Instagram and TikTok. Furthermore, early support for the track has been spotted online, with videos showcasing renowned DJs like Pete Tong, Vintage Culture, BLOND:ISH, and Miss Monique dropping the energetic new version in their performances. You can listen to it below and on all available streaming platforms Stay tuned for more news! The post MEDUZA Reimagines 2011 House Anthem ‘Around’ by Noir & Haze appeared first on EDMTunes.

STVW is back, and this time he’s teamed up with powerhouse American vocalist Micah Martin to deliver their new single, ‘Alone Here.’ Following the raw energy of “Welcome to My Life,” STVW doubles down on their signature punk rave aesthetic, crafting a track that’s less a gentle nudge and more a full-force shove onto the dancefloor. ‘Alone Here’ is a thrilling collision of gritty rock energy and high-impact dancefloor power. From the moment the track starts, you’re thrown into the relentless production. Think distorted synths that snarl and pulse with an almost violent intensity, coupled with a driving beat that feels less like a rhythm and more like a relentless engine pushing you forward. Enter Micah Martin, whose raw and anthemic vocals are the perfect fuel for STVW’s track. Martin’s voice is laced with a bold energy that cuts through the dense production like a razor. His lyrics come with a passionate urgency, making you just want to fist pump and rage throughout the listen. The post STVW Teams Up with Micah Martin on Punk Rave Track ‘Alone Here’ appeared first on EDMTunes.

Swedish House Mafia has unveiled their latest venture: Superhuman, a new music label that marks a bold step into the future of electronic music. Superhuman aims to become a creative platform that blends music, art, and technology to push the boundaries of the genre.​ A New Era for Swedish House Mafia Superhuman represents a fresh chapter for the iconic trio, known for their groundbreaking contributions to electronic dance music. The label’s launch is accompanied by a series of innovative releases that showcase their commitment to artistic evolution.​ Notable Releases “Skip“: The debut single by Ingrosso and Angello, released on February 23, 2024. The track has inspired several remixes, part of Superhuman. “Flood“, released on October 18, 2024, is a solo track by Ingrosso featuring amazing vocals by Tove Burman. “Lioness“: A Swedish House Mafia track that rocked festivals around the world since its release.​ But the story doesn’t end there. A mysterious teaser titled SH05 just dropped, suggesting a new release is on the way. SH05: A New Track in the making But the story doesn’t end there. A mysterious teaser titled SH05 appears on the website, indicating a new single is on the way. The artists teased as ” XXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX & XXXXX XXXXXXX (FEAT. XXXXXXXXX)” are likely to be Steve Angello & Sebastian Ingrosso, extending the artists’ duo direction. The title is yet unknown but likely to be “No Enemies”, a massive track that the trio have been playing in their latest sets. What’s Next? If SH05 is any indication, 2025 could be a landmark year for Superhuman and Swedish House Mafia. Whether it’s solo projects, full trio collaborations, or new artist signings, one thing is clear: Superhuman is shaping up to be one of the most exciting new labels in the game. For more information and to explore their latest projects, visit superhuman.music. The post Swedish House Mafia Launch New Label “Superhuman” and Tease New Single appeared first on EDMTunes.

The track ‘Like This’ dropped on Wednesday, April 9th, and it’s an exciting first collaboration between bass music powerhouse NITTI and the genre-blurring trio Levity. This catchy anthem combines Levity’s signature gritty bass style with NITTI’s fresh production touches, and it’s already getting a lot of love on social media. Plus, it gives fans a sneak peek of Levity’s upcoming EP, which looks like it’s going to be one of their most adventurous projects yet. From the get-go, ‘Like This’ brings the energy! In fact, it kicks off with a trap-influenced beat and bold vocals, leading into an electrifying buildup that really gets your heart racing. When the drop hits, it’s a wild ride of twisted bass textures and exciting rhythms that are sure to get festival crowds hyped up and dancing. Levity and NITTY crafted a wonderful partnership in ‘Like This’ This amazing collaboration comes at a perfect time as both NITTI and Levity are gaining serious momentum in 2025. NITTI just wrapped up his successful genre-blending single, ‘Windows’, alongside rock star Social Repose, and he’s gearing up for headlining shows this May across New Mexico, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Furthermore, his rocktronic movement—full of viral remixes, metal-dubstep originals, and his ALT/RAVE pop-up events—are truly pushing the envelope in electronic music. On the other hand, Levity are having an incredible year too! Their sold-out Full Circle Tour in 2024 showcased a next-level live production setup, and their latest track, ‘Postman’, released on Ultra Records back in February, has already racked up over 1.8 million streams on Spotify. With exciting performances lined up for Bonnaroo, Shambhala, Breakaway, Project GLOW, Rampage Open Air, and Elements Festival, Levity is really making waves in the modern bass scene! A sneak peek of what is next to come for bass music’s rising artists Overall, “Like This” is not just a celebration of the fantastic partnership between two of bass music’s brightest stars; it’s a hint at the amazing year ahead for both NITTI and Levity, filled with innovative sounds, captivating releases, and unforgettable performances. Get ready for what’s next to come! Click ‘Play’ on the Spotify link below to stream ‘Like This from NITTI and Levity, a track that gets heart beats pumping at a delightful pace as the bass elevates in perfection. Levity explains how the upcoming EP series will unveil themselves ”While we continue building toward our next project, one that tells a more cohesive story, we wanted to launch a new series of EPs for tracks that may not fit into that narrative but still deserve to be heard. ‘Front to Back’ and ‘Postman’ were the first two releases from this series, and we have two more to follow ‘Like This’ that we are really excited to share. We cannot wait for everyone to hear this one.” The post NITTI and Levity Throw Down Wonderful Bass in ‘Like This’ appeared first on EDMTunes.

Adam Beyer’s Truesoul has long been a breeding ground for next wave talent. Artists including Cirez D, Hot Since 82 and Patrick Topping all released on Drumcode’s little brother label, long before they were the headliners we know today. Next up for the imprint is rising US artist Dark Heart, a former Hollywood talent agent, who has his label debut ‘XYZ’ out now, featuring contributions from LA vocalist Amarha and John Cala, a Columbian, Barcelona-based musician/producer with Latin influences. For those unfamiliar, please introduce yourself. Oooo hi my name is David but I go by Dark Heart. I used to be a talent agent for actors & actresses in Hollywood but I quit to make music and somehow ended up becoming a DJ (it’s a long story). I currently live in LA and spend most of my time making music. Your new EP XYZ on Truesoul featuring Amarha and John Cala is out this week. Share a bit about the creative process and how the record came to fruition. Each song truly has its own story. For ‘XYZ’, Amarha and I wrote that when she was sick and had a bit of a raspier voice. She was worried her vocals wouldn’t sound good but it ended up being perfect. I think happy accidents are one of the most fun things about making music so I’m glad that one came about how it did. For Damn Good, I wanted to juxtapose the “happy” vocal (“I feel so damn good right now”) with a darker beat that hits hard. I wasn’t sure if it would work, so I played out an early version at one of my shows and it absolutely slammed. I was so thrilled with the reaction and immediately finished it in my hotel later that night (or early morning I guess). It’s a massive highlight in my sets and I love how it builds. Cigarette was a wild idea that Amarha and I started with her vocal. We wanted something a bit unhinged and different from what you hear in a lot of dance songs today so we tried to go as weird as possible both with the instrumental and the vocal. At this point John and I had been talking about working on something and we thought this would be a perfect time to put our sounds together. He’s an absolute wizard at production and I think everything he does sounds expensive and tasteful. We kicked it back and forth a bit and finally got it to a point where we absolutely loved it. Tell us how the link up with Adam Beyer’s Truesoul happened. Adam has always been a huge inspiration for me, a few years back he had been supporting a record of mine and I think that’s how we initially connected. I’ve always loved Truesoul as a label, creatively fearless and always pushing the boundaries. As an artist that’s really encouraging because you don’t feel like you have to fit inside of a box. I have always wanted to be a part of the label and I spent a lot of time discerning which of my records could make sense. Needless to say I can’t imagine a better home for these records and I’m thrilled to be making my debut on Truesoul with this EP. Any advice for those looking to gain the attention of a Tier 1 label like Truesoul? I think you just have to make what you love and what’s authentic to you. Don’t worry about the outcome. If you’re being authentic to who you are as an artist, labels and other artists will take notice and want to help you build your vision. Share three Truesoul releases that have inspired you on your musical journey. This is going to be hard because there’s a lot more than three haha. Adam Beyer – Ignition Key – I think I have to go all the way back to the Ignition Key album that I believe launched Truesoul. My favorite song on the album is probably Flamethower but the composition as a whole is just incredible. You can listen to the whole thing front to back and it takes you on a journey. This was inspiring to me as I hope to do something that ambitious and robust in my career at some point. Cristoph – Sleepless Nights – this one came out just before the pandemic hit and I remember listening to it over and over and over during that tough time. It’s one of those records that just takes you on a journey and I think unintentionally captured a vibe that helped me get through that year. It’s quite dark but also has so much emotion in it and that can be hard to achieve without a vocal Roberto Capuano – Move It Man – this record has stuck with me since I first heard it and I couldn’t figure out why until I listened with a more critical ear. I love the acoustic-sounding drums (particularly the snare) and the way the vocal contrasts with the lead synth. This song inspired me to use more acoustic drums in my own records. Before you got into music you were a Hollywood talent agent. Did you always have music bubbling away in the background? Tell us a bit about your background and progression into working on music full time. I definitely always had music bubbling in the background. I used to promote shows at my college and I tried my hand at production back then but didn’t quite go for it all the way. I loved being a talent agent, but I’ve always known that I am a creator at heart. I am from a small midwest town where there isn’t any entertainment presence to speak of, but I had always had artistic inclinations. I studied business in college and I always thought I would do something on the executive side in entertainment. When I graduated college I moved to LA with the sole intention to become a talent agent and when I achieved that, I eventually came to the realization that I needed to create to feel fulfilled. You can’t really have time-consuming hobbies as an agent (which is understandable, it’s a very important job and you need to give your full effort to it) and I realized that I either had to take a shot at music or just put that dream to rest forever. I chose to give it a shot, so I quit my job and got to work in the studio. It took a while to get good, but it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. You’ve produced for Dizzee Rascal and Martin Garrix no less. How did those projects come about? I never thought I would be a DJ, my initial intention was to produce for other artists in hip hop and pop. So, a lot of my early production background was focused on that side of things. The Dizzee Rascal one came about because he and Ocean Wisdom had a vocal that they needed a new production on so I built that out from scratch for them. I actually found it quite easy to produce because I already had the main component (the vocal) and I wanted to accent that and find sounds that would compliment their work. The Martin Garrix one is a much longer story, initially that was going to be a collab between myself and another artist, but as any artist reading this will know, sometimes songs take on a life of their own and make sense for someone else. I was very proud to be a part of that record on the production side and it’s still one of my favorite things I’ve worked on. Release and gig-wise, how are the next months looking for you? I actually can’t announce anything right now haha I’m sorry. But I’ve got a big show coming in Los Angeles this summer which I will be announcing soon so stay tuned for that. Next release is looking like May and I think that’s going to be another big one. I also have a ton of new records that I will be going out with in the near future, right now I’m focused on creating things and sharing this EP with the world. Stay tuned on all fronts, I’ll be announcing a lot soon so consider this me announcing my announcements (BIG THINGS COMING hahah). The post EDMTunes Chats with Dark Heart appeared first on EDMTunes.