Illiterate Light - Turning Up the Volume, Powering Up the Future

Meet Illiterate Light, a band not just making music but creating an experience. In their latest album Arches the band weaves together distorted rock and raw emotion, and explores finding meaning in the struggle. Whether they are electrifying crowds at Brooklyn Made or reimagining live performances with their bicycle-powered stage at Newport Folk Festival, Illiterate Light is constantly exploring new ways to connect with fans and spark change. Read on to learn more about Illiterate Light, their music, and their work.

Art, zissue 55Chelsea ChanJanuary 28, 2025music artist, music industry, band, Sustainability, environmentalComment

Sam Redmore and Abdominal's Mother Earth - When Song Meets Art

What happens when you combine a message about the climate crisis, music, and powerful storytelling? You get Mother Earth, the latest single by Sam Redmore featuring Abdominal, a track that is as thought-provoking as it is captivating. Each section of the track unfolds with its own tone and energy, mirroring the diversity of voices in the climate conversation. Mother Earth is more than just a song — it is a wake-up call to the effects of climate change. To learn more about the song, read on!

Art, zissue 54.4Chelsea ChanDecember 27, 2024climate change, music industry, Art, songwriterComment

Presley Tennant - Embracing Imperfection

A rising star and former contestant on The Voice, Presley Tennant’s journey into music began unexpectedly at just 10 years old. What started as a childhood dream of a soccer career took a surprising turn when she discovered the thrill of songwriting, recording, and performing—igniting a passion that set her on the path to stardom. Her latest single, Love You With The Lights On, explores the beauty of vulnerability in relationships, blending her various influences in country and pop music. In addition to her music, she is passionate about giving back, championing causes like animal rescue through her Riffs & Rescues tour, and helping underprivileged children through holiday toy drives. Read on to learn more about Presley Tennant.

SWAC: Influencer, zissue 54.4Chelsea ChanDecember 10, 2024animal rescue, animalshelter, music industry, Musician, charity, performerComment

Claire London - Returning to Our Roots

From a childhood steeped in soulful blues to navigating the bustling landscapes of New York City and the glittering allure of Los Angeles, Claire’s path has been a tapestry woven with diverse influences that define her distinct sound. With the release of her latest EP, Stardust, Claire returns to her musical roots with a raw, authentic approach that resonates deeply with listeners. Beyond her music, Claire is a passionate advocate for mothers in the music industry, championing initiatives like Mamas in Music. With a career fueled by passion, authenticity, and a relentless pursuit of musical expression, Claire stands as a beacon of creativity and empowerment in today's ever-evolving musical landscape. Read on to learn more about Claire London.

Adelide - Finding You Through The Tune

Adelide's musical journey is a true testament to the power of passion and personal exploration. Based in Brooklyn, New York since 2019, Adelide has carved out a niche in the music industry with her distinctive blend of disco, synth-pop, and soul. Adelide's songwriting process, deeply rooted in her jazz background, unfolds beautifully, often beginning with chords that came from her creative spark. Her latest single, "Witness," exemplifies her ability to seamlessly blend inspiration with personal narrative. Beyond her music, Adelide is a passionate advocate for causes close to her heart. Her involvement with the Youngsters of Uganda (YOU) organization underscores her commitment to making a positive impact. To learn more about Adelide, read on.

Helena Hallberg - Stories to Songs

Meet Helena Hallberg, the Swiss-born folk sensation. With roots from Brooklyn to Zurich, Switzerland, and influences spanning from Joni Mitchell to ABBA, her debut album 'Epithet' blends Scandinavian inspiration with Nashville melodies. Through personal experiences and social commentary, her music speaks to empowerment and change. Outside the music studio, she uses her platform to foster community and awareness confronting misogyny to uplift marginalized voices. To learn more about Helena Hallberg, read on.

Art, zIssue 54, zissue 54.2Chelsea ChanMay 28, 2024artist, music industry, Musican, songwriter, health care, socially awareComment

Ma’Chell M. Duma - Chorus, Cadence, and Cardi B

Seattle-based music critic, Ma’Chell M. Duma, unveils her latest book "Cardi B: Invasion of Privacy," offering readers an insightful journey into the rapper's impact and musical prowess. Reflecting on her journey from North Dakota and years in the music industry, she dissects each track in a series of essays, highlighting the socio-political impact and feminist themes within Cardi’s work. Enthralled by the boldness and originality of Cardi B’s music, she aims to offer readers a deep appreciation of the artist's cultural influence. To learn more about Ma’Chell M. Duma and her new book, read on.

Juliet Hawkins - Healing Through Lyrics

Lyrics are not mere words strung together, but rather, voices of the heart's deepest emotions. This profound sentiment forms the cornerstone of Juliet Hawkins' latest album, "Stay True." Within its melodies lie narratives of female empowerment and triumph over adversity. Yet, Juliet's lyrics transcend the confines of the recording studio. Beyond the realms of her music, she embarks on a noble movement, advocating for social justice and actively participating in volunteer initiatives. Her commitment extends far beyond the spotlight, as she tirelessly champions causes close to her heart, striving to effect positive change in the world. To learn more about Juliet Hawkins, read on.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 54, zissue 54.1Chelsea ChanApril 19, 2024music artist, singer song writer, animal, music industry, womensComment

Aiza - Afro Rhythm Sprinkled with Pop

Meet Aiza, the singer whose music will have you dancing on your feet. With her debut album 'Sovereignty' out now, Aiza delivers songs with addictive upbeat rhythms. Beyond the spotlight, she has participated with the Inkeraguhiga Collective working to ensure menstrual products are accessible to women in Ruyigi. Her dedication to both her musical career and humanitarian efforts serves as an inspiration, proving that artistry and activism can harmoniously coexist to create positive change in the world. Read on to learn more about Aiza.

Editor's Pick, SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 52Chelsea ChanDecember 1, 2023music artist, music industry, music video, Song, Afro-bop, women, womens rightsComment

Keir - Expressed Through Music

Keir, a songwriter and musician who conveys his feelings via songs, is blazing through the industry with his new track "Lemonade." As a young musician, Keir spent time advocating for mental health and autism, and he continues to weave themes concerning mental health into his lyrics. With a new single named "Voices In The Night" recently released, he continues to share his poetic masterpieces with the world. To find out more about Keir and his work, keep reading!

Annabel Lee - Rockstar Status: Unlocked

Power Rocker Annabel Lee gets candid with Jejune Magazine! In this exclusive interview with the star, we delve deeper into understanding who Annabel really is and where her music comes from. Obsessed with Annabel’s new album ‘Mother’s Hammer’ we ask her to expand on the meaning of a few of her songs and bond over our mutual appreciation for Patti Smith. Apart from being a talented musician, she also works with organizations towards upholding and fighting for civil rights. Read on to learn more about Annabel Lee!

Art, zIssue 48Tejasvi PradeepApril 7, 2023music artist, music industry, music production, Musician, activismComment

Natisa Gogol - A Ray of Hope in Times of Grief

Natisa Gogol is a promising ray of hope! Hailing from war-stricken Ukraine, her music is inspired by the grief faced due to the war. She wishes for her audience to cherish their present and bring to light the casualties faced by the people of Ukraine. In support of this, she has lent a helping hand to organizations that aim to make the refugee life simpler, providing aid and assistance, which is the need of the hour. Read on to get up close and personal with Natisa Gogol!

Editor's Pick, Art, zIssue 48Tejasvi PradeepApril 3, 2023music industry, Musician, war, refugee, ImmigrationComment

Shambolics - Changing Lives Through Rock & Roll

Scotland based Rock and Roll band, Shambolics, will have you falling in love with their classic rock vibe. Inspired by The Beatles, Fleetwood Mac, The Smiths, and more, their music is all kinds of dreamy mixed with a clever play between mellow acoustic tones and heavy rock sounds characteristic of a rock band. The band loves touring and playing live gigs, which includes a yearly performance to raise funds for the Kirkcaldy Foodbank. With their latest single ‘Living in Shadows’ out now, Jejune had the pleasure to interview band member Darren Forbes. Please read on to learn more about this great band.

zIssue 47, ArtTejasvi PradeepFebruary 20, 2023music artist, music industry, music production, Musicians, rock and roll, rock band, mental health advocateComment

There's No One Sweeter than Sweetlove

LA-based artist Sweetlove is our new musical muse. Her songs are crafted around meaningful stories and life lessons that everyone could do some learning from. Sweetlove’s recently rereleased album, Goodnight Lover (stripped), is teaching us how to grieve and find our way back after tragedy. Sweetlove’s passion for music is only matched by her passion for uplifting others. She is annually involved in “adopting families" in need during the holidays through the Simone Gordon's Black Fairy Godmother Foundation. Read on to discover more about Sweetlove’s artistic process, musical inspirations, and journey into humanitarianism.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 46J. BellingerNovember 23, 2022music industry, music artist, music, charity, homelessness, KindnessComment

Mikalah Gordon - So Much More Than An American Idol

Mikalah Gordon is so much more than an American Idol hit! Having gained recognition through the show, she has worked her way up to where she is right now, a true star! From singing to comedy, Mikalah dabbles in a little bit of everything and she is nothing short of killing it. But what really inspires us here at Jejune is her passionate for women and LGBTQ rights, which can easily be seen in her songs and her work on Channel Q. Let Jejune Magazine acquaint you with this sensation as you read more about her life, passions, work, and so much more.

Art, Editor's Pick, zIssue 45Tejasvi PradeepNovember 18, 2022music industry, music production, musicvideo, Musician, artist, American Idol, host, LGBTQ SupportComment

Joulie Fox - Art Pop’s Newest Sensation

Adding the “art” in Art Pop, Joulie Fox is a British musical sensation. Having a palette with a diverse range of songs, Joulie’s musical achievements are on the rise. Apart from being hot in the music scene, she also teaches music to under-privileged kids at the Unitas Youth Zone, which has recently partnered with Sony Music to expand their programs. Read Joulie’s interview with Jejune Magazine to know more about the Art Pop queen, her music, the fact that she hasn’t actually killed anyone, and her philanthropy.

Akelee Will Carry You To Hope

From Dallas, Tx, American Idol star, Akelee was born with the voice of a sultry angel! Inspired by the great Michael Jackson, Akelee aims to mix faith with pop culture to cultivate love and add positivity to our world. But she is doing this through more than just her music as she is very active with both the Peggy Beatrice Foundation and Dove Prosperity International to help restore communities. Please read further to learn more about her music and positive impact on the world in our exclusive interview with Akelee.

Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2022 - Heidi Campbell, Tennessee's 5th Congressional District

This week we are profiling Heidi Campbell (she/her/hers). Heidi is a musician and former music publisher in the Nashville area. She was previously the mayor for the community of Oak Hill, and is currently a Tennessee State Senator for the 20th District. In the State Senate she has been a vocal proponent for public schools and teachers, women’s and LGBTQ+ rights, and the legalization of marijuana. She is married with two children.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 45, Most PopularAndrew FSeptember 29, 2022music industry, music artist, music producer, executive, politician, politics, PoliticsComment

Kayla Thompson Is Singing Her Way Into Our Hearts

You better watch out! Kayla Thompson is a one-of-a kind musician that is singing her way into our hearts. Singer/songwriter best known for hits such as "Younger," which gained major recognition through Spotify's Fresh Finds Pop Playlist. Along with Honest, Pray you Away, and most recently, The Remains (Stripped), which was recently released and is the original version of her previous single, "The Remains." When she’s not singing, she is advocating for other black artists, appearing in American Eagle's Black History campaign, and serving as a board member for Projects of Hope. Her dreamy sound and genuine lyrics are not something to miss and we can't wait to see what she does next! Please continue reading to learn more about her singles, advocacy for black artists, and position as a board member for Projects of Hope.

Pain Behavior - Rising to the Top

During this time of Pride Month, we honor LGBTQ+ artists like Pain Behavior and their gifted musical abilities. Pain Behavior is a musician who creates songs with depth and meaning, as well as a grim edge. Pain Behavior recently released the song Heavy Light, which premiered on May 20th and is a moving tribute to both life and human connection. They also have several other songs, including Warrior, which, like its name, has a powerful story to tell. They discuss the sorrow as well as the inspiration of someone they once loved in a destructive way. Pain Behavior's commitment to pride doesn't stop there. They also took part in the annual Venice Pride event, where they performed and re-iterated their support. Pain Behavior is on the rise, and we're excited to see what they do next. Please read on to learn more about Pain Behavior and their musical path, as well as the inspiration and stories behind their songs, Heavy Light and Warrior, and their opinions on the importance of Venice pride.