Lonnie’s Genre-Defying Journey: From Metalcore Roots to Emo King

Lonnie’s vocal inspiration of the late 2000’s is immediately apparent as soon as you hit play. And his start at fifteen, writing music and touring in the metalcore/ emo scene as well as an early mentorship with Craig Owens of Chiodos are definitely reflected in his style. For anyone from the era, Lonnie’s songs feel like a love letter to the emo era of the late 2000s, wrapped up in a modern, experimental package. It has a nostalgic feel in every way, even though there is no doubt that his music is very relevant in the currently thriving trap and emo rap scene.

The Raw Honesty of ‘7 Years’

My personal favorite track by Lonnie is undoubtedly, “7 Years”. The song immediately grabs you with its unexpected fusion of hard-hitting dry 808s, well crafted trap drums, and stripped-back acoustic elements. Lonnie’s vocals are where the track truly comes to life, displaying an emo-inflected style that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

The lyrics of “7 Years” are pointed and cutting, a gut-punch of emotion that deals with betrayal and broken expectations. Lines like “Didn’t spend 7 years for this shit. Caught you making out with a guy at a Denny’s Booth” bring to the forefront, Lonnie’s knack for using vivid imagery in his lyrics that make them incredibly memorable.

“7 Years” really captures what Lonnie is all about and quite honestly, that unique 808 is just so satisfying to listen to.

The Sound You Didn’t Know You Needed

Lonnie’s music is a rare fusion that you never knew you needed. His blending of hyperpop, acoustic trap, and emo offers a little something for everyone. After all, who doesn’t enjoy an artist who pushes boundaries? One thing’s for sure; the Emo King got something right while still managing to rewrite the rules as he goes.

The Interview

1.  Can you kick things off by sharing the inspiration behind your
journey into pop and alternative music?

Of course! I have always been in love with music. I grew up with a wide variety of genres around me. My dad would always put on oldies. My mom would play r&b/hip hop music. I eventually stumbled onto bands like Paramore and Underoath, which opened up another world that took my music taste even further. I think all the different genres I listened to growing up really shaped who I am as an artist at this present time.  I joined my first band (Boldly, We Rise) when I was in high school, and that is what really got me into the local scene here in Arizona. With them I played venues such as The Nile, The Underground, and The Clubhouse. I did take a long hiatus after I had left the band. However, I did make my return by putting my own music out there into the world. I haven’t stopped since! Last year I played my first two shows as a solo artist at The Rebel Lounge and The Nile Underground. I can’t wait to perform again in the future!

2. Your songs often explore themes of love and relationships. What fuels this focus?

To be quite honest, I used to not be very good at writing music or lyrics. I sort of learned more after going through life and early adulthood.. You go through relationships, and simply just things that happen in life. That’s when I got the groove of it. I realized that my passion lies in my emotions and my thoughts. So, I write better when it’s real and I can connect with it. All of my lyrics are inspired by my own relationships and my life. It’s truly terrifying to put out songs like that, but it’s also very therapeutic. Because of that, I hope that my music can resonate with people. Whether they’ve gone through similar things, or they have a new meaning of their own that they end up resonating with.

3. You’ve collaborated with Sunrises and Roovillain. What do you seek in collaborations?

I like working with artists who are just as passionate about music as I am. People who just get it, you know? Sunrises has been a close friend of mine for about 12 years. I’d say it’s the most consistent musical friendship I have ever had. We’ve collaborated several times throughout those years. Our first collaboration was our song “Limbo”; which I love. Those times in the studio with him are some of my favorite times. Roovillain and I actually met through Sunrises and we connected over r&b/hip hop music. So we got together and wrote “Ghost”. Honorable mention to Dank Delish as well. We made “Honey Lavender” together. They’ve got a very retro and nostalgic vibe to their music that I enjoy a lot. It’s just fun to put two brains together and make something cool. I always look forward to future collaborations!

4. Your music is emotionally intense. How do you capture these feelings?

Thanks for saying that. Sometimes, when I’m going through something, I’ll go and write. Whether that be part of the instrumental or the lyrics. Experiences tend to stay with me. So I can write about something that happened this week or years ago. It really just depends. I have my notes app on my phone that I have full of thoughts and lyrics. A lot of those get turned into songs eventually. It might sound cheesy, but I get inspired by the moon and the nature around me a lot.

5. Who have been your musical influences?

Absolutely. Especially vocally, I’ve been influenced by a lot of women vocalists. Such as JoJo, Christina Aguilera, Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, and Hayley Williams. My favorite thing to do is learn their songs and challenge myself. These amazingly talented women have got ridiculous vocal pipes. I strive to be the best vocalist that I can be. I’d be nowhere I am now if I didn’t practice as much as I have.  Paramore has a huge influence in my style as well. They are and always will be my favorite band. I’ve also gotten pretty heavy into indie bands and I think that has influenced my style a little differently the past few years. Some favorites I can think of are Cherry Glazerr, Widowspeak, Ty Segall, Honeyblood, True Widow, and Warpaint.

6. Has Arizona influenced your music in any way?

I’m sure it has a bit. I think if I had an alternative environment, perhaps my music would be different. I don’t think it would be predominantly different, though. After all, my songs are mainly influenced by my life experiences.

7. What challenges have you faced in the competitive world of pop and alternative music?

The most challenging part is to not let myself get discouraged. I’ve got my moments where I do. Though it really is an ebb and flow. I always say that if you don’t try, you’ll never get anywhere and you’ll never know. I don’t want to ever spend my life thinking, “What if?”. That’s what I try to live by!

8. Any song that holds a special place in your heart?

I’d have to say that would be “Closer”. It’s one that I’m super proud of. I wrote it by myself when I was getting over the end of a relationship. It was a sort of closing chapter for me. So in a funny way, the song is about wanting to be close to that person. But also it was a ‘closer’ to move on.

9. You’ve ventured into alternative music despite conventional wisdom suggesting sticking to one genre. Why?

While I do understand the idea of sticking to one genre, I don’t think it should be detrimental. I’m proud of myself for just making the music I want to make, always. Over time I’ve also seen more and more artists doing the same. I think it can feel restrictive and it can disrupt the natural writing process, if you try to always stay in one genre box. It’s okay to change it up! Especially if you have a wide genre taste. That’s the pro side of not being signed to a record label, you get to call all of the shots.

Conclusion

Molly Marie is a testament to the power of authentic storytelling through music. Her journey shows us that genre lines can blur, and that true artistry resides in the ability to capture the complex tapestry of human emotions. With her insightful perspectives and deep-rooted passion, Molly continues to pave her own path, inspiring us all along the way.

Living the High Life

The lyrics of “Benihana” dive headlong into the lifestyle of the rich and confident, as the artist flaunts their ambition. Phrases like “Hundred stacks on my rack” and “Got a pocket full of cash” depict a world where material wealth and social status are the ultimate goals. And the final line of the bridge, “Things always go my way,” cements this goal and gives it a sense of certainty.

Diverse Instrumentation

The track seamlessly incorporates a variety of musical elements, making it a listening experience that keeps you on your toes. The electric guitar hook provides a mellifluous contrast to the gritty trap beats, while the horns in the chorus add a layer of grandiosity that elevates the entire piece. This blend of sounds contributes to a lush and textured musical landscape.

A Resounding Chorus

The chorus serves as the musical and thematic core of the song, encapsulating its swagger and bravado. “Hundred stacks on my rack, Grindin all night long” serves as a powerful affirmation of relentless ambition and the rewards it can yield. This is a song for anyone who aspires to make it big and is willing to put in the work to achieve it.

Why “Benihana” Is a Must-Listen

If you’re looking for a track that marries trap beats with unique instrumental flair, “Benihana” by Steev Rx is a song you can’t afford to miss. The artist has managed to craft a single that reflects the complexities of modern life, replete with its ambitions, pressures, and the ever-present pursuit of status. Coupled with its layered musical composition, “Benihana” emerges as a bold statement from an artist unafraid to experiment.

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In a fusion pop and trap, Sunrises teams up with Roovillain and Drewski to deliver “Night Luxe View”. Together, their collaboration turns the song into an anthem of aspiration and the embodiment of opulence, as it lyrically delves into the world of high-end cars, lavish lifestyles, and the relentless grind to the top. A must-add to your manifestation playlist, for sure.

Musical Blend that Strikes Gold

What makes “Night Luxe View” so compelling isn’t just its lyrics, but the seamless blend of melodic pop and trap elements. The energy that Roovillain brings with his rap verses and ad-libs really makes the song pop, it would almost be fair to say he steals the song, except that it melds perfectly with the overall tone, creating a synergy that is both infectious and memorable. The interplay between the catchy hooks, energetic synth, the raw energy of 808s, and the rich textures of trap drums underscores the track’s essence.

Why “Night Luxe View” is a Must-Listen

“Night Luxe View” isn’t just another pop/trap song; it’s a testament to the allure of ambition, the drive for success, and the journey of striving for the very best. As you dive into the world depicted in the song, it’s impossible not to get drawn in by it’s vivid lyrics that quite effortlessly paints a picture of luxury and success. This is one track you don’t want to miss out on – because sometimes, music not only reflects a dream but drives you to chase your own.

The Art of Emotional Complexity

The lyrics in “Purpose” grapple with existential questions and the relentless search for meaning, all the while maintaining an aura of relatability. Lines like, “What the fuck am I doin’ here, Guess I’m lookin’ for a place to be,” speak to the collective uncertainty that many of us feel, especially in our increasingly chaotic world.

Unique Musical Palette

Musically, “Purpose” stands out for its uniqueness. The blend of acoustic guitar and high-end 808s is a compelling combination. While the guitar lays down an intimate, heartfelt backdrop, the 808s punctuate the emotional moments, almost like an audible heartbeat. This allows the song to navigate a range of emotions, making it resonate with a wide audience.

Honest Lyrics

What sets Steev Rx apart from others is the unabashed honesty in their lyrics. “I’m feelin’ better now, Got somethin’ to avow, I’m sick of this same shit, I’m movin’ on now,” reflects the universal journey of overcoming hurdles and finding a sense of purpose. There’s a tangible sense of both vulnerability and strength in admitting that it’s okay to not have all the answers.

Why “Purpose” Is a Must-Listen

If you’re a fan of emotionally complex music with a fresh sonic approach, then Steev Rx’s “Purpose” is a must-listen. It not only introduces us to a rising talent in the Southwest emo scene but also adds a new layer to the ever-evolving tapestry of trap emo music. The song perfectly encapsulates the uneasy balance of doubt and discovery that defines so much of our modern experience. With its innovative musical elements and raw lyrical content, “Purpose” is more than just a song; it’s a statement of intent from an artist poised to make a lasting impact.

Playlists are Key

1. Editorial vs. Algorithmic: Spotify offers two types of playlists—Editorial, curated by Spotify’s team, and Algorithmic, generated based on user behavior. Aim for both to maximize reach.
2. Release Radar & Discover Weekly: These algorithmic playlists update weekly and are tailored to individual user tastes. Getting your track featured here can yield organic growth.

User Engagement Matters

1. Skip Rate: If listeners skip your track before the 30-second mark, it’s counted as a ‘skip.’ A high skip rate can negatively affect your algorithmic ranking.
2. Saves and Shares: The more a track is saved to a user’s library or shared, the better it performs in Spotify’s algorithm.

Quality Over Quantity

1. High-Quality Tracks: Good production quality is essential. Spotify’s algorithm does consider audio quality as one of its metrics.
2. Consistency: Regularly releasing quality music boosts your chances of being picked up by Spotify’s algorithm.

Social Media Presence

1. Cross-Promotion: Use other social media platforms to drive traffic to your Spotify account. This helps improve your track’s visibility on Spotify.
2. Artist Profile: A complete and engaging Spotify artist profile can help increase your track’s visibility in algorithmic searches.

Local Is Global

1. Local Playlists: Targeting smaller, local playlists can sometimes be easier and can eventually lead to being featured on larger, global playlists.
2. Collaborate: Partner with other artists or influencers to tap into different fan bases. This can boost your track’s algorithmic ranking.

By understanding and leveraging Spotify’s algorithm, artists can significantly enhance their reach and impact. Take these insights to heart, implement them in your strategy, and watch your music soar to new heights on Spotify.

Ready to amplify your sound to reach new ears? Submit your music to be featured on Uprising Review’s Spotify playlists! ? Email us at spotify@uprisingreview.com!

A Song of Duality

“You” is a haunting narrative that explores the duality of human emotions and relationships. It’s a lyrical journey through the unspoken anxieties, hidden fears, and sacrifices that accompany love and ambition. Lines like “I don’t want you to see me at my worst” and “I sold all my possessions just to be with you” reveal a complex inner struggle that resonates with many of us.

Sonically Diverse, Emotionally Charged

Musically, the song is an unrelenting whirlpool of genres. The trap elements, characterized by energetic 808s, provide a contemporary edge. Meanwhile, the grunge-style electric guitar leads cut through the mix, adding a nostalgic grittiness that juxtaposes the clean trap beats. This gives the song an urgency that keeps listeners hooked from start to finish.

A Message Worth Hearing

Lyrically, the song dives deep into the insecurities that come with revealing one’s true self to others. The repetitive refrain of “I don’t want you to witness what I’ve become” serves as a haunting chorus that lingers long after the song has ended. The artist embraces the paradoxes of wanting intimacy yet fearing vulnerability, yearning for success yet regretting the sacrifices made to achieve it.

Why This Song is a Must-Listen

“You” by Sunrises isn’t just a song; it’s a mirror reflecting the inner turmoil that accompanies the human condition. It’s for anyone who has ever felt trapped between their desires and the reality of their choices. Its blend of trap, pop, and grunge elements creates a diverse soundscape that demands multiple listens to fully appreciate its depth. And beyond its sonic versatility, the song has a message that many will find deeply relatable. It’s more than music; it’s an emotional journey worth taking. Therefore, if you’re seeking a song that pushes musical boundaries while touching on the very essence of our shared human experience, “You” is a track that cannot be missed.

Bridging the Personal and the Profound

At the heart of “Underrated” is My Eclectic Self’s genuine passion for music and camaraderie. The playlist is not just another collection; it’s a personal testimony to friendships and shared musical journeys. Many of the artists, such as Roovillian, Molly Marie, Sunrises, The Adjective, Drewski, and Don’t Say A Word, share a personal connection with the curator himself. Their inclusion is a testament to the mutual respect and admiration shared among peers.

A Tapestry of Evocative Genres

“Underrated” is not bound by a single sound or mood. It’s a fluid blend of Southwest Emo’s heartfelt narratives, the mellow vibes of Lo-fi Pop, the soothing melodies of Chill Pop, and the experimental edge of Alternative Indie. It’s a journey through emotions, stories, and innovative music-making.

Spotlight on the Rising Stars

While My Eclectic Self’s touch is evident in the choice of artists, it’s the selection of lesser-known talents that truly sets this playlist apart. Matt Mogg‘s introspective lyricism, changing cleo‘s ambient soundscapes, Lonnie‘s emotive vocal range, and VAIL‘s distinctive indie flair add layers of richness to the playlist.

But let’s not forget My Eclectic Self’s own tracks, which feature prominently in “Underrated”. It’s a brave move, placing one’s own creations among others, but it serves as a reminder of his belief in his music and his desire to stand shoulder to shoulder with fellow artists, both known and those on the brink of discovery.

Why “Underrated” is a Must-Listen

For those weary of the mainstream or those seeking a refreshing musical experience, “Underrated” is a treasure trove. It’s an invitation to explore, to feel, and to immerse oneself in a world where every note has meaning, and every artist, regardless of their follower count, is valued.

In an age where algorithms often dictate our listening habits, “Underrated” is a breath of fresh air. Curated with love, passion, and an unwavering belief in the power of music, this playlist encourages listeners to step off the beaten path and discover a world filled with hidden gems.

So, the next time you’re on Spotify, seeking a playlist that offers both familiarity and surprise, give “Underrated” a spin. Let My Eclectic Self introduce you to the voices that deserve to be heard and the songs that demand to be felt.

A Journey Beyond Four Wheels

The neon lights reflect off the sleek exterior of the Maserati, painting the town in hues of hope and aspirations. As the bass pulsates, it’s easy to imagine the calm of the city night, where every streetlight seems like a beacon guiding one towards their dreams. The feel of the cold leather, the muted hum of the city, and the comforting presence of a loved one beside you is a sensory delight, beautifully encapsulated in the trio’s harmonious blend.

Sunrises, known for their uplifting energy, bring a sense of freshness to the track. Drewski, with his knack for delivering heart-thumping rhythms, gives listeners the thrilling sensation of speeding down open roads, the wind in their hair, chasing after their dreams. My Eclectic Self, with their genre-blending genius, lends depth and layers to the track, representing the complexity of human desires.

A Message of Hope and Hard Work

Beneath the infectious beats and catchy lyrics, “Maserati” carries a message that’s profoundly resonant, especially in today’s fast-paced world. It serves as a reminder that dreams, no matter how distant or unattainable they seem, can be reached with perseverance and dedication.

The journey in the Maserati becomes a metaphor for life’s journey. The drive, while luxurious and pleasurable, also symbolizes the fruits of hard work. Every rev of the engine, every curve negotiated, echoes the grind and hustle, the setbacks and comebacks. It’s about savoring the journey, appreciating the present, and inspiring others to chase their dreams with the same fervor and passion.

In Conclusion

“Maserati” isn’t just a song; it’s a movement, a call to action. It urges listeners to take control of their life’s steering wheel, to drive with purpose, and to inspire others to do the same. As you listen, let the smooth rhythms transport you to those city nights, reminding you of the joys of shared dreams and the endless possibilities the future holds. Above all, “Maserati” teaches us that with hard work and a dream, the world is truly our oyster.

The Titans of Travel Tunes

The playlist boasts a stunning lineup of some of the music world’s most beloved artists who have been captivating the hearts of many with their travel-inspired melodies. Chelsea Cutler‘s ethereal voice transports listeners to far-off places with an almost dreamy allure. Jeremy Zucker, with his profound lyrics and melodic genius, reminds us of the bittersweet moments that traveling brings — the joy of discovery juxtaposed with the ache of leaving familiar grounds.

Alexander 23‘s unique blend of storytelling captivates the essence of modern travel — a mix of soul-searching and pure adrenaline-fueled escapades. And then there’s Quinn XCII, whose groovy beats and relatable lyrics resonate with every traveler’s highs and lows.

The Newbies Worth Noting

While the big names undeniably lend their charm to “Wanderlust,” what truly sets this playlist apart are the new and emerging talents, artists who, despite being lesser-known, deliver tracks that are pure gold.

The Adjective, with his invigorating sound, is reminiscent of the vibrant streets of cities yet explored. Sunrises, true to his name, bring a fresh, uplifting energy that matches the beauty of watching a new day dawn in a foreign land.

Then there’s My Eclectic Self, whose genre-blending tracks echo the myriad of experiences one undergoes while traveling. Molly Marie‘s sultry voice and enchanting lyrics serve as a tribute to the serendipities of solo travel. Drewski, with his riveting rhythms, gets your feet tapping and heart racing, mirroring the thrills of an unexpected adventure. Lastly, Roovillian‘s smooth tunes seem tailor-made for those tranquil moments of reflection, often experienced during long journeys.

In Conclusion

The “Wanderlust” playlist is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a journey in itself. From the bustling energy of cityscapes to the tranquil beauty of untouched nature, it captures the myriad emotions and experiences of traveling the world. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or simply dreaming of distant lands, let “Wanderlust” be the soundtrack to your journey. Safe travels and happy listening!