Looking for fresh tunes to take your playlists to the next level? We’ve got you covered! This week’s instalment of What’s Going On is packed with exciting new releases that span genres and moods, ensuring there’s something for every listener. From established pop superstars to acts that need to be on your radar, we’re here to keep you in the loop on what’s hot in the music scene. As always, if you dig what you hear, be sure to stream and follow the artists.
Sofia Camara – Rising Canadian pop star Sofia Camara has returned with her new “Starlight,” available now through 21 Entertainment and Universal Music Canada. With over 2.2 million views across social media, the track follows up her summer hit “Do You Love Me,” cementing her place as one of the Canadian pop scene’s reigning balladeers. Produced by Red Triangle and co-written with Wayne Hector, “Starlight” features Sofia’s crystal-clear vocals delivering heart-wrenching lyrics about love and loss. Momentum is on her side as Sofia was recently selected as a VEVO DSCVR Artist to Watch, where she’ll debut live performances, including one for “Starlight.” The Toronto-based artist will also sing the National Anthem at the CFL’s 111th Grey Cup on November 17th. Tune in for that!
Photo Credit: Ayanna Allen
Listen to Sofia Camara’s new single “Starlight” below.
Olly Alexander – Pop superstar Olly Alexander is back with his new track “Cupid’s Bow,” available now on Polydor Records, as he gears up for his highly anticipated solo album Polari. That epic pop extravaganza is due out on February 7th, 2025. This exciting project will be accompanied by an intimate Up Close and Polari tour across the UK and Europe. The new track “Cupid’s Bow” explores themes of desire, intimacy, and fate with a pulsating club crafted with collaborator Danny L Harle. The album is said to be inspired by Polari, the famous slang and coded language that was used by gay men in Britain.
Listen to Olly Alexander’s new single “Cupid’s Bow” below.
The Velveteers – There’s a new album from queer rockers The Velveteers on the way. A Million Knives is set to drop on Valentine’s Day 2025. Led by powerhouse frontwoman Demi Demitro, the Denver trio features dual drummers Baby Pottersmith and Jonny Fig on a conjoined kit. How fun is that? The forthcoming 13-track album showcases their high-energy kickass attitude, produced in collaboration with GRAMMY-winner Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys. The new single “Go Fly Away” is an alt-pop anthem for the ages, co-written with Auerbach and Patrick Carney, featuring Carney on drums. With A Million Knives, The Velveteers tackle the challenges of life on the road as a non-binary, queer rock band.
Listen to The Velveteers’ new single “Go Fly Away” below.
Courteeners – Manchester band Courteeners have unveiled their new single “Sweet Surrender,” the latest track to be released from their upcoming seventh album Pink Cactus Café. Featuring guest vocals from breakout Scottish soul artist Brooke Combe, the track opens with acoustic guitars and a driving rhythm, building to a euphoric chorus. “Sweet Surrender” follows the previously released tracks “Solitude Of The Night Bus” (which we love) and the album’s title track. Co-produced by Liam Fray and featuring contributions from notable artists like DMAs and The Coral, Pink Cactus Café promises to be Courteeners’ most adventurous collection of songs yet. Pink Cactus Café is out on October 25th.
Listen to Courteeners’ new single “Sweet Surrender” featuring Brooke Combe below.
Mabel – UK pop sensation Mabel has just released her latest single, “Stupid Dumb,” featuring Ty Dolla $ign. Recorded in the vibrant heart of LA, this track blends Mabel’s captivating vocals with Ty’s signature smooth vibe on the track crafted by Grammy-nominated producer Tommy Brown. The sultry, carefree R&B anthem showcases their steamy chemistry as they share heartfelt confessions about love and letting go. Accompanied by a special behind-the-scenes video, fans get a sneak peek into the song’s creation. As the daughter of Neneh Cherry, Mabel continues to carve out her own unique space in the pop world.
Speaking about the single Mabel shared: “Stupid Dumb is about when you’re literally crazy about someone. I wanted to capture that euphoric feeling you get when that special someone is all you can think about. Working with Ty Dolla Sign on this record has been so special. I’ve been a huge fan of his for a long time and our recording session was definitely one of my favourites ever!”
Listen to Mabel’s new single “Stupid Dumb” featuring Ty Dolla $ign below.
