Category Archives: Recording Artists

Daryn Alexus Hits 1K & Releases “Wake Up”

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Our homegirl Daryn Alexus is back! This time she indulges us with her latest offering, “Wake Up” which she released after hitting her milestone of 1K followers on soundcloud. As she continues to create her own lane, “Wake Up” showcases Daryn’s ability to lyrically empower and encourage people of all ages. She reminds us how amazing and beautiful life can be when we pursue our dreams and wake up to being our true selves. Although many people may not be familiar with the name Daryn Alexus as of yet, we’re sure much greatness is to come for her in the near future!

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(Uh • Kway • Us) Aquaus Kelley is a forward-thinking Brand Strategist, Educator, and Music Publisher. As the Founder of A Lovers Ambition Lifestyle Group, he specializes in identifying talent and creating opportunities for brand development, exposure, and growth. Aquaus has worked with companies such as Cornerstone Agency, Universal Music Group, and W Hotels. He is extremely passionate about helping companies adapt to culture and building value between brands and their consumers. His ultimate mission is to use his influence to project positivity across the globe.

Where is Chantel McCrary?

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A week or so ago I was putting together a playlist for my homegirl’s 80s -vs- 90s party taking place this Saturday. I happened to come across Zhané(s) classic, “Sending My Love” and I definitely had to add it to my playlist. I knew that I heard a rendition of this song somewhere else before. I just couldn’t put a finger on it.

For the last week, I had this tune playing in my head. I was trying to figure out, “Where else have I heard this song before?” I knew that I heard it on soundcloud a few years ago. I also knew that it was re-worked by a young female vocalist. As I sat down at my computer a few minutes ago, I starting to recall a list of names from my memory. I started by looking at my spreadsheet of emerging female vocalists that I’ve compiled over the last 3 years. Nothing. As I started to tune into my intuition, I began to search for names within the parameters of what I felt was close to my target: Chanel, Shanel, Shantel. I finally went to YouTube and typed in the song title, “Sending My Love” and added a “Ch”. Wha-laa…there it was…Chantel, “Sending My Love.” It’s been 3 years since I saw the video and it’s still pretty dope and very well shot!

After some additional research (perusing through the comments), I see that her full name is Chantel McCrary. Considering that I haven’t heard any new music from her in a while, I wonder what she’s currently up to? She’s definitely talented and I would love to know what she’s working on. I guess we’ll find out soon!

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(Uh • Kway • Us) Aquaus Kelley is a forward-thinking Creative Consultant, Educator, and Music Publisher. As the Founder of A Lovers Ambition Lifestyle Group, he specializes in identifying talent and creating opportunities for brand development, exposure, and growth. Aquaus has worked with companies such as Cornerstone Agency, Universal Music Group, and W Hotels. He is extremely passionate about helping companies adapt to culture and building value between brands and their consumers. His ultimate mission is to use his influence to project positivity across the globe.

Izzy Bizu – Give Me Love

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Yes! I’m super excited to see that Izzy is finally starting to receive the recognition that she deserves. Today, her video for “Give Me Love” was premiered by The Fader. If you happen to be across the pond in London, head over to London Fields Brewhouse on Thursday, September 24, 2015 for her debut headline appearance. I’m sure that you’ll enjoy it!

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(Uh • Kway • Us) Aquaus Kelley is a forward-thinking Creative Consultant, Educator, and Music Publisher. As the Founder of A Lovers Ambition Lifestyle Group, he specializes in identifying talent and creating opportunities for brand development, exposure, and growth. Aquaus has worked with companies such as Cornerstone Agency, Universal Music Group, and W Hotels. He is extremely passionate about helping companies adapt to culture and building value between brands and their consumers. His ultimate mission is to use his influence to project positivity across the globe.

VEVO DSCVR Presents: Alessia Cara

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Here at A Lovers Ambition Lifestyle Group, we’re all about supporting emerging artists while providing them with a platform for their music to be discovered. VEVO DSCVR is a music incubator just for this. This time around, VEVO DSCVR brings to us EP Entertainment/Def Jam’s own 19 year-old songstress, Alessia Cara. “All you really need is a love for what you do, and the ambition to do it” says Alessia in the short description of her Facebook Fan Page. Alessia is once again another artist who embodies the philosophy of what it takes to have “A Lovers Ambition.”

Sit back, relax, and watch Alessia perform her debut single, “Here” off of her forthcoming EP, “Four Pink Walls” which is due out later this month on August 28th.

– Enjoy!

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(Uh • Kway • Us) Aquaus Kelley is a forward-thinking Creative Consultant, Educator, and Music Publisher. As the Founder of A Lovers Ambition Lifestyle Group, he specializes in identifying talent and creating opportunities for brand development, exposure, and growth. Aquaus has worked with companies such as Cornerstone Agency, Universal Music Group, and W Hotels. He is extremely passionate about helping companies adapt to culture and building value between brands and their consumers. His ultimate mission is to use his influence to project positivity across the globe.

Alessia Cara’s “Four Pink Walls” EP (8/28)

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I initially came across Alessia Cara about a month ago when I heard her debut single, “Here” on Beats 1 Radio. As soon as I heard the record, I instantly tagged it to add to my personal playlist. Other than the Isaac Hayes “Ikes Rap II” sample which was also used by Portishead and stems from the Wallace Collection’s “Daydream”, there was something about this record that reminded me of something that I heard in the past. At the moment, I just couldn’t put a finger on it. Now I know. “Here” reminds me of a record that was released about 6 years ago by an artist named Portia Monique entitled “Get To Know You.” It has a similar soulful feel and vibe to it which I love!

When I found out that Alessia Cara was signed to Def Jam, I reached out to a friend of mine who told me that they were very excited to have her as an addition to their roster. I myself am eager to hear more. On August 28, Alessia will be releasing her debut EP, “Four Pink Walls.”

Stay tuned for more!

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(Uh • Kway • Us) Aquaus Kelley is a forward-thinking Creative Consultant, Educator, and Music Publisher. As the Founder of A Lovers Ambition Lifestyle Group, he specializes in identifying talent and creating opportunities for brand development, exposure, and growth. Aquaus has worked with companies such as Cornerstone Agency, Universal Music Group, and W Hotels. He is extremely passionate about helping companies adapt to culture and building value between brands and their consumers. His ultimate mission is to use his influence to project positivity across the globe.

Lianne La Havas – Unstoppable

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I’ve been following Lianne La Havas for a few years now since the release of her debut project, “Is Your Love Big Enough” back in 2012. Although I missed her performance at Afropunk last summer, as well as her set at Central Park SummerStage in 2013,  I still have loads of love for her!

I remember when I first came across the artwork for her soon to be released sophomore album “Blood.” This was a few months ago while I was browsing through Pinterest. I liked the artwork so much that I had to post it on my Instagram account. When I found out that her lead single was “Unstoppable”, I made time to check the track out as well. After giving it a listen, I added it to my on-air rotation for a radio show that I co-host on Sunday evenings at Rutgers University.

Up until yesterday, I was yet to hear her song being played by anyone other than myself. It was Julie Adenuga over at Beats 1 who played “Unstoppable” yesterday afternoon that prompted me to revisit what Lianne had going on. Eventually, this led me to her video that was recently released. Granted…the video was released 2 months ago, but true artistry and quality music is timeless…enjoy!

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(Uh • Kway • Us) Aquaus Kelley is a forward-thinking Creative Consultant, Educator, and Music Publisher. As the Founder of A Lovers Ambition Lifestyle Group, he specializes in identifying talent and creating opportunities for brand development, exposure, and growth. Aquaus has worked with companies such as Cornerstone Agency, Universal Music Group, and W Hotels. He is extremely passionate about helping companies adapt to culture and building value between brands and consumers. His ultimate mission is to use his influence to project positivity across the globe.

New Americana x American Apparel?

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Just a little while ago, I was listening to Julie Adenuga on Beats 1. I was really diggin’ her set as she played a few records that I have in my own rotation such as “Girl” by The Internet and “Unstoppable” by Lianne La Havas. A few spins later, I happened to hear a tune by the name of “New Americana.” When I first heard it, I thought to myself: “This sounds like it would be a perfect record for an American Apparel campaign.” It’s edgy, honest, and full of adolescent rage. On my first listen, I knew that it was just a bad a** record!

Without checking for any credentials, I initially thought that it was a new release from Lorde. I was soon proven wrong. After checking my phone, I found out that “New Americana” is actually from an artist by the name of Halsey who hails from my current state of residence…New Jersey. Although she’s from NJ, she actually identifies closely with New York…Brooklyn to be exact. At only 20 years of age, Halsey is already signed to Astralwerks and her debut album, “Badlands” is due out next month.

For more on the talented and burgeoning singer/songwriter, check out Fuse TV’s in depth interview HERE! American Apparel, I’m telling you now…if you’re looking to align and collaborate with any emerging artists for any future campaigns, I would definitely put my money on Halsey. She seems like a great fit for your brands sonic identity. If done right, this can definitely be a win-win!

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(Uh • Kway • Us) Aquaus Kelley is a forward-thinking Creative Consultant, Educator, and Music Publisher. As the Founder of A Lovers Ambition Lifestyle Group, he specializes in identifying talent and creating opportunities for brand development, exposure, and growth. Aquaus has worked with companies such as Cornerstone Agency, Universal Music Group, and W Hotels. He is extremely passionate about helping companies adapt to culture and building value between brands and consumers. His ultimate mission is to use his influence to project positivity across the globe.

Khary Durgans – Hold Up (Love + Anchors)

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I should have made this post 8 months ago. November 11, 2014 to be exact. Why? That’s the day after I attended Khary Durgans listening party in the city for the release of his “Swim Team EP.” My favorite track is “Hold Up”…hands down! If you had the pleasure of being amongst the crowd that evening you would know exactly what I mean. As soon as this track dropped the entire room was filled with energy. This was the one. I just felt it. I even overheard some guys next to me who agreed. Now it’s your turn. Give it play…see exactly what I mean!

Background Story

I was initially introduced to Khary’s music through a friend of mine named Whitney. This was a few months after he released his debut project entitled, “Love + Anchors.” I must of listened to this project 10 times! I was an instant fan. He embodies many of the qualities that I look for when identifying talent to work with. He’s authentic, true to himself, and embraces his own journey. He selflessly shares his story in regards to growing up in Rhode Island and moving to Brooklyn, NY. Not afraid to bare it all, he spits about what a lot of other MC’s fear to discuss. Real life sh*t! Employment, friends, foes, relationships, school, women, parents, and his mission to pursue his own dreams and aspirations. Khary is the definition of #ALOVERSAmbition – The type of artist who is determined to succeed at exactly what they love to do in life!

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(Uh • Kway • Us) Aquaus Kelley is a forward-thinking Creative Consultant, Educator, and Music Publisher. As the Founder of A Lovers Ambition Lifestyle Group, he specializes in identifying talent and creating opportunities for brand development, exposure, and growth. Aquaus has worked with companies such as Cornerstone Agency, Universal Music Group, and W Hotels. He is extremely passionate about helping companies adapt to culture and building value between brands and consumers. His ultimate mission is to use his influence to project positivity across the globe.

Izzy Bizu – Adam & Eve (w/Bonus Track)

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I remember my first post almost 2 years ago on how I initially came across the lovely and talented, Izzy Bizu. To have the opportunity to both witness and play a role in spreading awareness on her projects early in her career is very fulfilling. Identifying emerging talent upon entry into the commercial marketplace is something that I have a deep passion for!

2 years later, and now 21 years of age, Izzy only continues to blossom into a more experienced and seasoned artist, performer, and storyteller. She now has the backing of a major label after inking a deal with Epic Records. She has supported major acts such as Jamie Cullum, Milky Chance, and Sam Smith. She is also in the process of recording her debut album which is due to be released sometime this year.

Here is the video for her newest release entitled, “Adam & Eve”…Enjoy!

…Are you searching for more ear candy? Here is another lovely release from Izzy entitled, “Diamond” which is a super smooth cut!

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(Uh • Kway • Us) Aquaus Kelley is a forward-thinking Creative Consultant, Educator, and Music Publisher. As the Founder of A Lovers Ambition Lifestyle Group, he specializes in identifying talent and creating opportunities for brand development, exposure, and growth. Aquaus has worked with companies such as Cornerstone Agency, Universal Music Group, and W Hotels. He is extremely passionate about helping companies adapt to culture and building value between brands and consumers. His ultimate mission is to use his influence to project positivity across the globe.

Kanye West x Adidas Fashion Show (Awesome Is Possible!)

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http://youtu.be/TEYaLzRDyIA

Hello Lovers…Happy Valentines Day! NYC has been buzzing since earlier this week and the festivities will continue over the course of the next 24+  hours or so. Not only is it fashion week, it also happens to be NBA All-Star weekend. On top of that, Monday is Presidents Day; which adds another layer to the madness. With everything that is going on this weekend, what is there not to love?

Yesterday night, as I was making rounds through Jersey City and Manhattan, I received a call from one of my good friends. I couldn’t answer at the moment, but when I called her back, she asked if I heard about Kanye’s fashion show with Adidas. I told her that I did and she sent me an email to check out an article and some footage of how the show was received.

As I began to read the article, the number one statement that initially caught my attention is when Kanye mentions, “I want people to think awesome is possible.” I immediately identified with that philosophy. Too often we idolize the achievements of others to a point that we no longer believe that it’s possible to achieve great things in our own right. We become desensitized to mediocrity. We view greatness as an anomaly. We become comfortable with things being fine just the way that they are. I extremely disagree! I believe that our existence in itself grants us an opportunity to achieve profound accolades beyond our imagination. Why settle for anything less?

Push culture forward. Push creativity forward. Live legendary, leave a legacy!

– Enjoy!