Jim Stanard: A Discography Spotlight - "Too Much Fun" and "Looking Back" Jim Stanard, the award-winning singer-songwriter hailed by American Blues Scene for drawing "from the same well of weathered experience" as Johnny Cash or Kris Kristofferson, continues to impress with his distinctive blend of observational lyrics and captivating melodies.1 His third full-length studio album, Magical, released in January 2025 (with Vinyl released in January 2025), showcases his continued evolution as a creative artist, fearlessly exploring themes from the humorous to the philosophical, love lost, and enduring melodies. Collaborating once again with producer Kip Winger (Winger, Grammy-nominated classical composer) and guitarist Jon Skibic (Afghan Whigs), Magical was recorded in Nashville with a team of A-list studio professionals.3 Grammy-winning engineer Brandon Bel (Joni Mitchell, Brandi Carlile) contributed the mixes, ensuring a polished and resonant sound. Stanard's journey to musical prominence is unique. A "late bloomer" in the music world, he embraced his passion after a successful career in business, applying the same drive for new challenges to his artistic pursuits. This adventurous spirit is evident in his songwriting, which critics have praised for its intelligence, profundity, and often humorous insight. His 2018 debut, Bucket List, was lauded as a "sleeper pick," followed by 2020's Color Outside The Lines, which charted on The Folk Chart in the US and reached the top 15 on the EuroAmericana chart. The EP The Soultrain Sessions (2021) further showcased his talent with live-in-studio covers of influential artists.4 With YouTube video views nearing 1.5 million and global chart successes, Jim Stanard's musical journey is truly an inspiring dream come true. Here's a closer look at two notable tracks from Magical: "Too Much Fun" Album: Magical (2025) Release Date: May 16, 2025 (as a single) Description: "Too Much Fun" is a vibrant and upbeat track that perfectly embodies the joy and playful spirit found within Magical. Characterized by a "rollicking riff," the song makes it clear that Stanard is having the time of his life, showcasing his humorous and quirky lyrical approach. It's a groovy and infectious tune, accompanied by an animated music video, further emphasizing its lighthearted and entertaining nature. This song is a testament to Stanard's ability to craft catchy melodies that stick with the listener long after the music fades. "Looking Back" Album: Magical (2025) Release Date: Released as part of the Magical album in January 2025. Description: Serving as the anthemic, self-reflective opener for the Magical album, "Looking Back" sets a tone of optimism and earnest reflection. In this track, Stanard eschews blanket nostalgia, instead finding encouragement for the future. The lyrics, such as "That trail behind me / Is just a memory / I need to move ahead / The best I can," underscore a mature perspective on the passage of time and the importance of maintaining forward momentum. "Looking Back" embodies Stanard's characteristic introspective lyrical approach, conveying with confidence that while time passes, there is always room for love, fun, learning, reflection, and growth. Musically, it's a solid, guitar-driven country-rock piece that offers a resonant and authentic ride for the listener.

Under the art project "Fall of Passion," John Faridian (known as John F.) aims to explore avant-garde songwriting and production techniques. His focus is on the combination of analog and electronic instrumentation, blending retro and contemporary audio processing, and incorporating a wealth of subtle nuances to craft the music of tomorrow. John F. has worked under various pseudonyms and was a finalist in "The International Songwriter of the Year" competition. He attracted interest from a major record label as well as several minor ones, but ultimately chose to pursue a career in Environmental Science. Originally from London, UK, he began his journey in music creation and production during the early days of samplers and synthesizers. Recently, he has returned to his musical roots. **About the Video:** Set in 1820s Regency Britain, the video visually represents the concept of the track by juxtaposing traditional elements with modern ones. A central aspect of the video is that it does not convey a single meaning; instead, viewers are encouraged to create their own narratives, with interpretations that are as varied as their individual life experiences. Filmed at prestigious locations in and around West London, including Black Country Park (featured in "Harry Potter," "James Bond," and "Star Wars"), Chiswick House, and Porchester Hall, the video delves into the pitfalls of jealousy, symbolized by the yellow rose of the Regency era. It intertwines reality with fantasy, life with the afterlife, and rationality with a loss of control, where purity and passion clash with decadence and reason. Time is portrayed as a continuum of past, present, and future, all of which are experienced in the blink of an eye.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Rising songstress Tori Rose celebrates an ex with her new single and video, "If Drinking Was a Sport." Written by Tori and produced by Jimmy Ritchey, "If Drinking Was a Sport" highlights the Pennsylvania native's unique blend of traditional and contemporary country music, featuring sassy lyrics and a crisp twang. Tori explains, "I wrote 'If Drinking Was a Sport' for all the girls who have dated that one guy who prioritizes partying above everything else. I think they'll relate to the song and have a good laugh at the lyrics." Celeb Secrets exclusively debuted the humorous video for "If Drinking Was a Sport," directed by Justin Mayotte in Nashville. Juliet Schroder of Celeb Secrets praises the visuals, stating, "From the playful jabs at bar culture to the hilariously relatable characters, the visuals perfectly enhance the song's sarcastic tone. With its infectious energy, sassy storytelling, and unforgettable melodies, this track solidifies Tori Rose as a rising artist with a talent for keeping it real." Tori's love for country music began at an early age while cruising the waters on her family boat, where she developed an appreciation for legendary icons such as Dolly Parton and Hank Williams Jr., as well as her childhood favorites Carrie Underwood and Little Big Town. At just six years old, Tori started piano, ukulele, and guitar lessons, later adding vocal lessons at age 13. During her early school years, she performed in numerous choirs, musicals, and talent shows, where her natural abilities began to shine. Tori's music career took off at the age of 12 when she had the opportunity to perform at Pittsburgh's Hard Rock Cafe and later sang the National Anthem at the Monster Truck Jam at PPG Paints Arena. Since then, Tori has had the chance to perform original sets at various music festivals and venues, including Ole Red Orlando, where she won their Battle of the Bands contest in 2021. Now 19 years old, Tori is pursuing her dreams in Music City, continuing to share her authentic stories with a captivated audience, showcasing her determination and tenacity.

"AI Knows Better" is a thought-provoking and timely track by the group ViennaCC. Written and released in **2023**, the song explores the increasing influence of artificial intelligence in our daily lives. With its innovative sound, ViennaCC addresses themes of our reliance on AI, the potential for its omnipresence, and offers a subtle commentary on the evolving relationship between humanity and technology. The track invites listeners to consider the implications of AI's growing capabilities and to reflect on what it truly means for AI to "know better." The music video accompanying "AI Knows Better" adds a dynamic and visually engaging layer to the experience. Characterized by fast cuts, typical of modern music videos, it keeps viewers entertained and engaged throughout. ViennaCC performs in various locations that echo the song's lyrics. The presence of numerous robots emphasizes the theme of AI superiority. In the first chorus, ViennaCC dances alongside robots, showcasing a playful interaction between humans and machines. The second chorus takes place in an empty computer room, highlighting the contrast between the bustling digital world and human solitude. The third chorus features robots performing everyday human tasks—cleaning the bathroom, shopping, walking a dog, and driving a car—portraying a future where machines seamlessly integrate into daily life. A distinctive aspect of the video is ViennaCC's incorporation of steampunk aesthetics, using bulbs on electronic circuits instead of microchips. This unique twist adds visual interest and sets the video apart from typical representations of computer technology. In the final verse, ViennaCC is dressed in an extravagant office outfit with a blazer, aligning with the verse's focus on computer programming and coding. This stylish portrayal of the artist adds sophistication to the otherwise humorous and light-hearted video. The video concludes with ViennaCC dancing in front of a large display that showcases robots. This scene leaves viewers pondering whether the events depicted are part of a performance or a glimpse into a possible future, adding a thought-provoking element to the video's playful nature. A playful lyric states, "AI will take over the world," accompanied by scenes of robots integrating into everyday life, such as cleaning, walking dogs, driving cars, and teaching at school. Overall, the music video for "AI Knows Better" complements the song perfectly, blending humor, creativity, and philosophical musing. ViennaCC's engaging performance, along with the clever use of steampunk aesthetics, makes the video a captivating visual accompaniment to the song's entertaining narrative.

"FATE" is a powerful and introspective track from the group Follow No One, penned by the talented Rich Hall. Written and released in **2023**, the song delves into the profound theme of destiny and the often-unforeseen paths our lives take. Hall was inspired to write "FATE" during a period of personal reflection, observing how seemingly small choices or unexpected events can dramatically alter one's trajectory. He sought to capture the feeling of both the inevitability and the surprising twists that shape our individual journeys, exploring the fine line between free will and predetermined outcomes. With its evocative lyrics and Follow No One's signature sound, "FATE" invites listeners to contemplate their own relationship with destiny and the unfolding narrative of their lives.

Nyki Lindsay King is a solo artist from Montreal, Canada, who is a multi-talented musician. He plays guitar and writes all of his own music and lyrics. Inspired by icons such as Eddie Vedder, Kurt Cobain, and Chester Bennington, Nyki's sound blends elements of funk, soul, R&B, and reggae, creating a unique and captivating musical experience. Nyki's musical journey began in 1983 under the guidance of his father, Eric George Lindsay, a Studio One reggae artist known for the classic track “Rasta Nah Run.” At just 7 years old, Nyki performed on stage with his brothers as part of "The Kings Brothers." During the 1980s, they delivered popular performances and shared the stage with renowned artists like Ken Boothe, Alton Ellis, John Holt, U-Roy, and Paula Clarke. Nyki's music has drawn comparisons to bands like Linkin Park, Three Days Grace, and Our Lady Peace, among others. However, as listeners explore his tracks, they will discover that Nyki is an incredibly versatile artist, showcasing a variety of styles with skill and passion. He writes songs about real-life situations, aiming to help others navigate their struggles. Nyki is an artist filled with both talent and heart. **Making of the Video** “Running Out Of Time” offers a profound analysis of the current state of the world. In this piece, Nyki portrays a grim scenario of a society on the brink of collapse.

Sophie Bolen, an award-winning child actor turned rising country singer-songwriter from Michigan, is no stranger to the spotlight—now, she’s has taken control of her career. Blending her cinematic roots with heartfelt songwriting, Sophie brings a fresh and authentic voice to the country music scene. She pairs vivid storytelling with self-produced music videos that have captured the industry’s attention. In 2024, she experienced a breakout year, including a milestone debut at the legendary Bluebird Café and performances at The Listening Room alongside her award-winning collaborator, Rebecca Lynn Howard. Sophie's visual artistry has also earned her recurring hosting roles with The Country Network and Country Fix, establishing her as a multi-talented force in the industry. Her highly anticipated debut album, set for release in late 2025, will feature all original songs written by Sophie in collaboration with Nashville hitmakers such as Rebecca Lynn Howard, Jenee Fleenor, Rachel Thibodeau, Brian Maher, Marty Dodson, and producer Matt Wilder. The lead single, “Where the Heart Can Sing,” serves as a personal anthem reflecting her journey from the Midwest to Music City. Sophie’s Michigan upbringing is deeply woven into her music, with references to 4-H fairs, horseback riding, and the serene beauty of the Great Lakes. With a clear artistic vision and an undeniable presence on-screen and on-stage, Sophie Bolen is an emerging artist to watch.

Sirius Flame is a young Italian Dancehall and Reggae artist, born Davide Cozzi in Milan in the early 2000s. He has made a significant mark on the scene with his unique sound and collaborations. His discography includes: **EPs:** * **Youth (2021):** This debut EP served as an introduction to Sirius Flame's musical world, featuring five tracks entirely written by him and mastered by Daddy Cobra. It includes tracks like "Fresh 'N Clean," "Mi Nah Play," "Back It Up," and "Shooting Star." **Singles:** Sirius Flame has released a number of singles, often showcasing his evolving sound and collaborations. Some notable releases include: * **20 Grams (feat. Ras Zohen) (2020)** * **Neva Change (2023):** This single was also featured on "The Bell Riddim," a project that helped bridge the UK and Italian music scenes. * **Kawasaki (2023)** * **Yuh Nuh Bad (2023) (with DJ Assassin)** * **Pull It Up (feat. SDQST, Stylo G, 2ap) (2024)** * **IL MEGLIO DI ME (feat. Vacca) (2025)** Sirius Flame continues to carve his path in the Dancehall and Reggae genres, demonstrating a passion for his craft and a promising future in the global music scene.