<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>Video Round-up – Live Music, Concerts & Music Events | Sofar Sounds</title> <atom:link href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/category/video-round-up/feed" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog</link> <description></description> <lastBuildDate>Fri, 03 Oct 2025 21:30:28 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3</generator> <image> <url>https://sofar-blog-images.s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/favicon.svg</url> <title>Video Round-up – Live Music, Concerts & Music Events | Sofar Sounds</title> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height> </image> <item> <title>5 classic covers by sofar artists</title> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/5-classic-covers-by-sofar-artists</link> <comments>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/5-classic-covers-by-sofar-artists#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[cat.kiene]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 04 Oct 2025 06:15:31 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Artists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Playlists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Round-up]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Videos]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/?p=4226</guid> <description><![CDATA[When Sofar artists put their spin on the classics, the result isn’t karaoke– it’s magic. Think fresh interpretations that honor the original, while reminding us why these tracks remain timeless. From stadium anthems to power ballads, here are 5 covers from Sofar artists that reimagine (legendary) songs you’ll fall in love with all over again. […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When Sofar artists put their spin on the classics, the result isn’t karaoke– it’s magic. Think fresh interpretations that honor the original, while reminding us why these tracks remain timeless.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">From stadium anthems to power ballads, here are 5 covers from Sofar artists that reimagine (legendary) songs you’ll fall in love with all over again.</span></p> <h2><b>Lily Allen – </b><b><i>I Want to Break Free</i></b><b> (Queen Cover)</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Queen gave us the anthem. Lily Allen gives it intimacy. Stripped down and with added tenderness, her Sofar performance takes the epic stadium hit and brings it straight into your living room, making every lyric resonate with recognition.</span><br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MpMPkfOXP84?si=uDDadIjEpbJCa2LC" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h2><b>Cameron Calloway – </b><b><i>Landslide</i></b><b> (Fleetwood Mac Cover)</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Few songs capture bittersweet change like Fleetwood Mac’s </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Landslide</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Cameron Calloway’s soulful take adds velvet edges to the classic, reminding us why it’s the kind of song you </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">never</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> skip.</span><br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DMBUNkSxbQs?si=3hsWIeNRaluamfN0" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h2><b>Benjamin Longman – </b><b><i>Graceland</i></b><b> (Paul Simon Cover)</b></h2> <p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Graceland</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is a journey, reflecting the genius of Paul Simon’s path. Benjamin Longman keeps the spirit of adventure alive but with an indie-folk twist that feels both nostalgic and brand new. </span><br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ecjIZJrC6go?si=AuMMvPUQgqJlKk4k" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h2><b>PitchBlak Brass Band – </b><b><i>Killing Me Softly</i></b><b> (The Fugees Cover)</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Fugees made it iconic, but PitchBlak made it a brass-fueled banger. With bold horns and irresistible energy, this version transforms the track into an instrumental celebration that’ll give you goosebumps.</span><br /> <iframe loading="lazy" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yYhh8aUp4rU?si=l2GlpbUWUYPHm0ga" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h2><b>Arlissa – </b><b><i>Lover, You Should Have Come Over</i></b><b> (Jeff Buckley Cover)</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Jeff Buckley’s ballad is no easy feat, but Arlissa delivers with haunting beauty. Her Sofar performance feels timeless, drenched in longing and emotion, proof that some songs don’t just get covered, they get reborn.</span><br /> <iframe loading="lazy" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DczbdnhnzmE?si=l37ocUStcVILCOHV" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">These Sofar covers prove that legends never fade; find new voices (and friends and venues!) at a Sofar show near you! </span></a></p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/5-classic-covers-by-sofar-artists/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Sofar, So Long, Summer Setlist</title> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/sofar-summer-setlist</link> <comments>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/sofar-summer-setlist#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[cat.kiene]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 30 Aug 2025 08:27:46 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Artists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Community]]></category> <category><![CDATA[New Music Alert]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Playlists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Round-up]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Videos]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/?p=4202</guid> <description><![CDATA[Summer may be winding down, but these fresh drops from Sofar artists prove the show must go on. Some tracks pulse with energy, others go deep into the feels, and yet, they all capture that end-of-August vibe. Consider this your seasonal send-off. Let’s get into it! Olivia Dean | “Man I Need” London’s own Olivia […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Summer may be winding down, but these fresh drops from Sofar artists prove the show must go on. Some tracks pulse with energy, others go deep into the feels, and yet, they all capture that end-of-August vibe. Consider this your seasonal send-off. Let’s get into it!</span></p> <h2><b>Olivia Dean | </b><b>“Man I Need”</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">London’s own Olivia Dean is known for her cozy, soul-pop storytelling, and we’re among the many who have been waiting for her next drop. </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/1qbmS6ep2hbBRaEZFpn7BX?si=2a1ae9ca95474206" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Man I Need”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> hits that bittersweet spot between braving heartbreak and embracing newfound freedom. Olivia didn’t just stop there; besides </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/0Bv6OJO0L5gcf20DMww54a?si=xNIRW-PZRpieLiLRYItJYA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">dropping two additional tracks</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> teasing her upcoming album,</span> <a href="https://www.oliviadeano.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafAdYbgO1-eoM7sgpR6fsBOC2BtXJBR6T-Abe6xx5OaGw4s89aPIfv-f3fM8Q_aem_6tcS_p92UnZsJRhi-6eegA#tour" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">she’s on tour,</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> including dates opening for Sabrina Carpenter, and hitting festivals until next summer! </span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oIv_Y2RPQ_A?si=IzaYiLZXveDWXsm1" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h2><b>Cool Company | “Hip 2 Hip Hypnosis”</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Cheeky meets addictive with </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/7wweXc51MLp0BLoGMNCjJR?si=HIUPLiMATAmMMwQqVmAxHQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Hip 2 Hip Hypnosis,”</span></a> and likely why the <span style="font-weight: 400;">Brooklyn duo is, in fact, cool company. The groovy track features Durand Bernarr, cementing their credibility of cool, futuristic R&B music. Warning: side effects may include dancing in public, which you can do live at one of </span><a href="https://www.songkick.com/artists/7031174-cool-company?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAada0F2h5CQGPPOHVupjZ-ZrXW0yv_iv_0_Z3sTOp1M11f0nCvmhjiGerUf7dg_aem_caC2CZBtMdvXoIfz7Ur4IA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">their upcoming shows!</span></a></p> <h2><b>Scarlett Rose | “West Coast X Billie Bossa Nova”</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Scarlett Rose has had Sofar shows, (very) viral hits, and covers we didn’t know we needed. The </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/05nj2FXPTBMnGSFsiHHGcH?si=816d244d04674b31" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Dark Times”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> artist is serving up more of her ethereal sad-girl sound. </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Dropping a sultry spin on Sofar Alum, Billie Eilish’s </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/1bCMlnbje6Gh6lbrSI8WpK?si=gM1srzT6TYaH2iZRQ-tI4g" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Billie Bossa Nova,” featuring Lana Del Rey’s “West Coast,”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is just what we needed from the mysterious, emerging Spanish star.</span></p> <h2><b>Daisha McBride | “Can’t Stop This” </b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With unapologetic flair, Daisha McBride brings her energizing confidence to what can only be described as a </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">banger</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Her new single, </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/5KvwAp4O37uULAaqSlXHVB?si=8lfXN64QQ5qIOO245lT8QQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Can’t Stop This,” </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">is a Missy Elliot era resurrection, bound to be a club hit. Catch the energy live at one of her upcoming show dates!</span><br /> <iframe loading="lazy" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kq5DXlOZrR0?si=3Jg0iW57KoX4Hgcc" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h2><b>Sam </b><b>Drysdale |</b><b> “Cold Water” </b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sam Drysdale cools things down with</span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/75VpXo7umgZLY6lIF9I3eW?si=V8eodGWYQ0KB6_mfD_zi-Q" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> “Cold Water,”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> a ballad that feels like a deep breath after the chaos of summer. His haunting vocals and delicate guitar work hit with that perfect late-night, last-call kind of stillness. It’s the perfect track for a seasonal shift.</span><br /> <iframe loading="lazy" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CuHZLzdcvc0?si=sjymJecMX1JW0UqL" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h2><b>AJ McQueen | “Touch Grass”</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Everyone needs a reminder to stop and slow down, and AJ McQueen delivers it with </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/5ewDTRmOqHBA51iNs2gFON?si=385d98495c45468f" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Touch Grass.”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Equal parts reminder and mantra, the track gives ‘oldest sibling’ wisdom. When the summer haze gets heavy, AJ keeps us grounded.</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CI3sL1gHPYY?si=NE2Nk-141rTizrms" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h2><b>Chappell Roan | “The Subway”</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Some of us have been replaying clips of live performances of </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/7GlwcUYHB99l7k13I2Hira?si=wMkmju2UTfGI5M4RRtou3w" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“The Subway”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> for the last year, and finally, it’s here. When vulnerability meets theatre drama, Chappell Roan enters the chat. With upcoming projects, Grammy wins, and </span><a href="https://www.chappellroanshows.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAacADhGlPZoMzsJMX12SzQnN4864TpmCdu0VKGBr2YwZSZVTsIYDFmhyanvF8Q_aem_HYBHlhnhUxKWjt7zQPMH9A" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">non-stop show dates</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, somehow she found the time to record and release this treasure.</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/woLfAvD5iXI?si=m5Q_XvXitOz_MMwd" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Catch these artists and more just like them at </span><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">a Sofar near you!</span></a></p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/sofar-summer-setlist/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>5 Noteworthy Artists Who Played a Sofar Part 4</title> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/5-noteworthy-sofar-artists-pt-4</link> <comments>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/5-noteworthy-sofar-artists-pt-4#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[cat.kiene]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 14 Jun 2025 06:58:17 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Artists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Community]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Round-up]]></category> <category><![CDATA[blackwave]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Jorja Smith]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Khruangbin]]></category> <category><![CDATA[rainbow kitten surprise]]></category> <category><![CDATA[shakey graves]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/?p=4103</guid> <description><![CDATA[Headliners, Grammy-winners, and millions of plays- Sofar Alumni are no strangers to talent or success. We’re sharing 5 Sofar shows that will make you want to time travel back to these small sets, with big names. Welcome to Noteworthy Artists who played a Sofar show, part 4. Kruangbin | Sofar Bristol Chances are you’ve heard […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Headliners, Grammy-winners, and millions of plays- Sofar Alumni are no strangers to talent or success. We’re sharing</span><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/noteworthy-artists-sofar-part-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> 5 Sofar shows that will make you want to time travel back to these small sets, with big names</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Welcome to Noteworthy Artists who played a Sofar show, part 4.</span></p> <h4><span style="font-weight: 400;">Kruangbin | Sofar Bristol</span></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chances are you’ve heard Khruangbin, and if you haven’t, chances are you have and didn’t know it. The Texas-native, alternative-indie trio has been making waves in the industry for over a decade. With Grammy noms, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/24ntSW3QVJzR79lHAAOTaY?si=6c0d6109bde14399" target="_blank" rel="noopener">collaborations with Leon Bridges</a>, and unmistakable talent, Khruangbin persists on the Sofar radar. If you’re not sold yet- see them<a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/2mVVjNmdjXZZDvhgQWiakk/concerts" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> live on their European tour</a>, and thank us later.</span><br /> <iframe loading="lazy" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DAY1WVZDl2g?si=BfTBYzhMiVaLXEGp" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h4><span style="font-weight: 400;">Shakey Graves Sofar | Austin</span></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Speaking of Texas, ~</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">take us back~ </span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">to 2012 at </span><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/cities/austin" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sofar Austin</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> for the Shakey Graves Sofar set. Born as Alejandro Rose-Garcia, the Americana folk artist didn’t just play a Sofar show before his music success; he also acted in roles for TV shows: </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Friday Night Lights</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Spy Kids. </span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">From winning ‘Best New Artist’ at the 2015 American Music Awards to playing stages </span><a href="https://tribeza.com/arts/luck-presents-spring-concerts-2022/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">alongside Modest Mouse and Willie Nelson,</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> his creative resume is only getting started. </span><a href="https://www.shakeygraves.com/tour" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Catch Shakey Graves on his North American tour, </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">playing venues big </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">and</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> small.</span><br /> <iframe loading="lazy" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iZBS-JUBAXQ?si=Vc5MaNL34FRhIXwU" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h4><span style="font-weight: 400;">blackwave. | Sofar London</span></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Since their 2019 Sofar London show, blackwave. has been making a lot more than waves. The experimental duo has </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">millions</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> of streams to show for it. Since the success of their hit <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/2wSKzkZZJo45qRCBxM13wk?si=fb4685c882874a9e" target="_blank" rel="noopener">“Elusive,”</a> the duo followed up with two albums, each progressing in popularity for their hip-hop, R&B, blues, and jazz-y style. Don’t take our word for it, see for yourself at </span><a href="https://www.bandsintown.com/e/106811047?app_id=spt_feed&came_from=281&utm_medium=web&utm_source=spt_feed&utm_campaign=event" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">their set at Pukklepop in August! </span></a></p> <h3><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-4110" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium 300w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1024&wpsize=large 1024w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=150&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=150&wpsize=thumbnail 150w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=768&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=768&wpsize=medium_large 768w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=400&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=400&wpsize=square 400w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1536&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1536&wpsize=1536x1536 1536w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=2048&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=2048&wpsize=2048x2048 2048w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 1080w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></h3> <h4><span style="font-weight: 400;">Rainbow Kitten Surprise | Sofar London</span></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Before </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/7Ew5us0FuyUZZ4p6jRP2r3?si=e05ba604d81d478e" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Superstar-</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">dom</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, the can’t-be-put-in-a-box band, Rainbow Kitten Surprise, gave a historic Sofar London show back in 2018. Despite the band’s 2023 announcement that they would be taking a break to rest, they lost no time with the drop of </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/2bOwdC37gg057sITTY8Ovj?si=95skBNvNSvK97xfDlO5e7g" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">another hit album</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> last year, and </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/5absPtnH7lb3sFE6MudIa8?si=RJJ_V0iFQIKwtViydYnhQg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">released a single earlier this year.</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Catch up with them </span><a href="https://tr.ee/xurqazK4t7" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">live on tour</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">– featuring festival </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">and</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Sofar alum appearances!</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-4111" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium 300w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1024&wpsize=large 1024w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=150&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=150&wpsize=thumbnail 150w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=768&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=768&wpsize=medium_large 768w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=400&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=400&wpsize=square 400w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1536&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1536&wpsize=1536x1536 1536w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=2048&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=2048&wpsize=2048x2048 2048w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 1080w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></p> <h4><span style="font-weight: 400;">Jorja Smith | Sofar London</span></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Before the release of her debut album, Jorja Smith was getting our attention with her single, </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/471LijcvJ7tV7ePoX4S0RE?si=ZrFL01tfRoOJXV3SJXuEfA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“On My Mind,”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and on the Sofar stage. The London R&B Grammy-winner kept it local with her 2017 Sofar London show–just shy of her ‘Best New Artist’ title. While her success has global recognition, she’s staying close to home this summer on her</span><a href="https://laylo.com/jorjasmith/m/falling-or-flying-UK" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> <i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Falling or Flying</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> UK tour!</span></a></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-4113" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium 300w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1024&wpsize=large 1024w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=150&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=150&wpsize=thumbnail 150w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=768&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=768&wpsize=medium_large 768w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=400&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=400&wpsize=square 400w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1536&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1536&wpsize=1536x1536 1536w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=2048&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=2048&wpsize=2048x2048 2048w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 1080w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></p> <p><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Which artist will be featured in the next Noteworthy round-up? Find out at a Sofar show near you!</span></a></p> <p> </p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/5-noteworthy-sofar-artists-pt-4/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>New Music Alert: June</title> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/new-music-alert-june-2025</link> <comments>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/new-music-alert-june-2025#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[cat.kiene]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 31 May 2025 05:38:17 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Artists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Community]]></category> <category><![CDATA[New Music Alert]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Playlists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Round-up]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Videos]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/?p=4086</guid> <description><![CDATA[It’s been a busy year for Sofar artists, and we’re only halfway through 2025(!). June is jam-packed with new releases and new artists to watch. We have New Yorkers cultivating community, artisan skincare at the merch table, and a rebrand for the Y2K bubblegum idea of a “Popstar.” It’s all too good to gate-keep. Here’s […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It’s been a busy year for Sofar artists, and we’re only halfway through 2025(!). June is jam-packed with new releases and new artists to watch. We have New Yorkers cultivating community, artisan skincare at the merch table, and a rebrand for the Y2K bubblegum idea of a “Popstar.” It’s all too good to gate-keep. Here’s your New Music Alert!</span></p> <h2> 1. <span style="font-weight: 400;">Blake Anthony | </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">BDE</span></i></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Blake Anthony’s artistry cannot be put into a box (unless it’s a box with his sold-out skincare, of course). Blake is a multifaceted creator, getting inspiration for album art from anime and making </span><a href="https://www.blakeanthony.shop/product-page/honey-mask-blake-s-body-butter" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">artisan body butter</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> by hand. The Twitch Streamer and Seattle-based hip-hop artist just dropped his latest album, </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/5KrkOqUO5pNPWMqWMaoq13" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">BDE</span></i></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">—a refreshing compilation of clean, classic hip-hop and R&B. While giving us smooth, soon-to-be-classics, Blake keeps it Blake on tracks like </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/1txaMCF60EFbKuQWAFankl?si=bf75fe6394ef4496" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Sailor Moon”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/0s1mQqCGTffdBmZ8SQxonw?si=cd8f2c34c8b14d75" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Grand Kai-”, </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">shouting out homages to anime and his Twitch community. If you can’t catch him on his next livestream, maybe you can at an upcoming show. (Sofar Seattle—we’re looking at you!)!</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="PINK LACE by BLAKE ANTHONY prod. by PHESO ft. Dont3 (Official Music Video)" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ba2kJExgFbA?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <h2> 2. <span style="font-weight: 400;">La Lulu |</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Lululandia</span></i></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Check the temps, because this album drop is hot. La Lulu, the Colombian-born, Brooklyn-raised artist, just released </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/3lJ6Y0lsXhrwv4BVfd6F8O?si=BBewydPhTWOcrKDysvVYPA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Lululandia</span></i></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, her first nearly self-titled album. The Latin Grammy-winning violinist isn’t shy with her experimental style. La Lulu smoothly blends her Latin roots with New York influences, creating the heat we’re talking about.</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="La Lulu - Poppin | Sofar NYC" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uuLR1f1HolE?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <h2> 3. <span style="font-weight: 400;">Benicio Bryant |</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Popstar</span></i></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Benicio Bryant has arrived to your dance playlist, and a VMA can’t be too far behind. His latest hit, “</span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/0RtnJn4LQKCUUfcPeB8kKE?si=mhr4aEU5TZuodxTlSUzQsQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Popstar”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, throws punchy hooks alongside a level of “this-must-be-viral” vocal control. At 20, he’s already serving arena-ready performances with the ease and commitment of someone who’s been doing this for decades. Oh, and he’s</span><a href="https://beniciobryant.com/#tour" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> teasing a tour</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">? Maybe then we can clear up the time-traveling rumors, Benicio!</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="Benicio Bryant - POPSTAR (Official Video)" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mMD0s7_xosQ?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <h2> 4. <span style="font-weight: 400;">Netam |</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> iki</span></i></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Netam is back—and </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/7lHi1zx8H7vDVocim9grLm" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">iki</span></i></a> <span style="font-weight: 400;">is a deep dive into texture, rhythm, and cinematic electronics. With layers of (his!) trumpet, house, and a heartbeat that feels almost elemental, this latest release is tailor-made for thinking, moving, or taking yourself a little mental walk. If you’re in </span><a href="https://2025.daad.hu/highlights/whomadewho/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hungary for DAAD Gathering </span></a><a href="https://open.spotify.com/concert/2KJdo2Nhx0jYP7ZMc6HAJL?si=72612c7a494349ba" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">on June 18th</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, you won’t want to miss this set!</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="Netam ft. Damla Temel - Toprak | Sofar Ankara" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PHE1oPYOjng?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <h2> 5. <span style="font-weight: 400;">Steff Reed |</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Into The Wilderness</span></i></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Steff Reed doesn’t just write songs—he creates frameworks for social change. His latest project, </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/16a13fzWtvAq7lgzZzlWEq?si=fiFCDUtBTS283WndDa08Dg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Into the Wilderness,</span></a> <span style="font-weight: 400;">balances bold vulnerability with grounding softness. The album is rooted in years of education, activism, and unflinching self-reflection. Ever since Steff’s 2018 standout track, </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/1LWEr9h2xZPHItwsc9itQI?si=c75091bb34c14b72" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Power of Love”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, his music has been doing more than just sounding good: it connects, empowers, and makes us feel good, too. </span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="Steff Reed - Power of Love (Music Video)" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TtthBB5kGvs?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <h2> 6. <span style="font-weight: 400;">Rebecca Porter |</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Payday Loans</span></i></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Raised in the Shenandoah Valley (yes, </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">the</span></i> <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/1YYhDizHx7PnDhAhko6cDS?si=f1ecada43b0c4f6d" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Country Roads”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">), Rebecca Porter embodies all its wise-mountain magic—allith a fresh honey-like voice, sharp pen, and the kind of storytelling that’d make Dolly proud. Her new EP, </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/1m1xPQ6j3PlGFqZy65hrMX?si=jpLj5mqDREWBwyOE70BE6A" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Payday Loans</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, puts working-class grit front and center, weaving regional folk with delicate country harmonies. Her debut album is set for release in August, but in the meantime, catch new tracks live at one of her </span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/rebeccaportermusic/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">upcoming festival sets!</span></a></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="Payday Loans" width="500" height="375" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eWC7vrfGdIU?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <article id="post-4009" class="post-4009 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-artists category-community category-new-music-alert category-playlists category-videos tag-cat-ridgeway tag-chappell-roan tag-charley-crockett tag-dende tag-ian-flanigan tag-nicotine-dolls"> <div class="entry-content single-content-width text-20"> <p><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/">Catch these artists and others just like them at a Sofar show near you!</a></p> </div> </article> <div class="container mx-auto footer-divider text-center"></div> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/new-music-alert-june-2025/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Sofar Artist News: May</title> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/sofar-artist-news-may-2025</link> <comments>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/sofar-artist-news-may-2025#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[cat.kiene]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 17 May 2025 05:52:11 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Artists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Community]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Round-up]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Videos]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/?p=4065</guid> <description><![CDATA[We have a lot to catch up on for May’s Sofar Artist News, so let’s lock in. From dreamy debuts to fresh albums and tours, these artists are booked, busy, and blessing our ears. Here are the viral covers, international tours, and yes, one song about cheese- that Sofar artists have been cooking up this […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">We have a lot to catch up on for May’s Sofar Artist News, so let’s lock in. From dreamy debuts to fresh albums and tours, these artists are booked, busy, and blessing our ears. Here are the viral covers, international tours, and yes, one song about cheese- that Sofar artists have been cooking up this month.</span></i></p> <p><span style="font-size: 20px;"> 1. Fresh off a Sofar London set and a<i> (tender!) </i><a href="https://conferences.ted.com/ted2025/speakers?utm_campaign=speakers-network&utm_content=yijiatu&utm_medium=social&utm_source=speaker&ltclid=e8856e46-4afc-4559-8825-d5e1b6bb65f6" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TED Talk</a>, Yijia released her single, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/1J7TrS5y4muqxtw6beDa0h?si=472b4a62af164fdc" target="_blank" rel="noopener">“Lullaby”</a>—and it’s exactly what it sounds like. Yijia blends Chinese folk with indie-pop, and the result is a melodic dreamscape. If you haven’t yet, check out her EP <a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/7oFvoxrzHCNk2WElpbY4Ru?si=GtFBcQXSQGuxAZp75698hg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><i>Chinese Whisperer</i></a>—and <a href="https://linktr.ee/yijia_music?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafbUY0jTqP84VxTmvULLNj9JpDE010Nw4omafoA-t-cQGWv2I2rT6_9rSDJ-A_aem_dDqYSHUAHX1J4w4Tfe97hg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">stay tuned</a> to see what stage she takes next!</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="Yijia - One of Me | Sofar London" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eO7ye2ipwHs?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <p><span style="font-size: 20px;"> 2. The idea of a pop princess has transformed a generation, and right now, Nia Ashleigh is emerging royalty. Her latest single, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/7FhiN6Gcmj8iQzQU3pIuTL?si=28b2f3df066743d8" target="_blank" rel="noopener">“All the Same,”</a> is a vulnerable and controlled anthem that complements a smooth jazz and R&B vibe. Catch her<a href="https://www.trousdalemusic.com/#tour" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> on tour opening for Trousdale</a>. (You might even spot Nia’s fans Lady Gaga and SZA in the crowd!)</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="Nia Ashleigh - All the Same (Official Lyric Video)" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-I2I7t1YRTw?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <p>3. <a href="https://hms.harvard.edu/news-events/publications-archive/brain/dancing-brain" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Research shows</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> dancing can help get those happy brain receptors moving, and we have just the thing for when you need to dance </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">it</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> out. </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/4jhL9VYjPbn7hfiVC8m5Zm?si=BW4kN2KqTF2xqeG2-3KA9A" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Desire! </span></i></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">is the third album from Friend of a Friend, featuring the impossibly catchy </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/4FzbCxQCNdEXqKJvO1jMtt?si=1efa755d11664d22" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Oasis”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and all the hypnotic indie-rock they’re known for. See FOAF on their </span><a href="https://linktr.ee/FOAFONTOUR2025?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAadKQKCk2A10d74m7LgBF3VbmOE8rBj7csYws3aGyZRZumu00i2VAHz3_P4qpA_aem_EsllkOQnr1iSj6VBUhU4AA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">U.S. tour</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, and, yes, consider wearing your dancing shoes.</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="oasis (music video - Friend of a Friend)" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VAU0GlMnGiU?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <p>4. <span style="font-weight: 400;">Bryan Elijah Smith’s cover of Chris Isaak’s </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/5QeOCXGt5FQATz7M1S5UNo?si=4dmkVT3iS7iH9FoqcBM6XQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Wicked Game”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> brings the right amount of spook for your spring. Country-folk fans may recognize Bryan from his viral hit </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/05Ue7NlY1Eq8PGKo6tFeb5?si=f1f153671357470f" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“One Shot,”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and with a suitcase full of heartbreak and harmonicas, he’s back on the road for more crooning. Catch him on stage with </span><a href="https://www.bryanelijahsmith.com/tour" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">summer dates across the U.S. and Canada!</span></a></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="Bryan Elijah Smith - One Shot" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CTdC4oYXTxM?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <p>5. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/7hFRv4DCCSY3wtndkZiDAi?si=7f69a79f6b5943ae" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Chasing Cheese”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is a genius Broadway-worthy drop by one-man show, Spence Hood. In it, Spence mixes theatre camp charm with Taylor Swift storytelling, and he has us begging for a part II. </span><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@spencetok" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Follow his TikTok</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> for upcoming show dates or enjoy a </span><a href="https://spencehood.com/houseconcert" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“House Concert”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> set! Choose <em>your</em> show date for Spence to serenade your party!</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="Spence Hood - She | Sofar Seattle" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NwLlva0R4TI?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <p>6. <span style="font-weight: 400;">With a voice that sounds like it’s echoing from a cabin deep in the woods, Charlie Bishop just released</span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/298wASJUdUgW0e9oN2fb0u?si=wSFeGjOCQRWYWNHzdVSIUw" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> <i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Far Away</span></i></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, an album that blends Northeastern folk and Western country for an overall Americana feel. The album flows with poetic, stripped-down lyrics that can feel close to home. Wanna catch Charlie on stage? </span><a href="https://charliebishop.net/shows" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">He promises more show dates are coming!</span></a></p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DAR3ejzyySU/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <p> </p> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"></div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div> </div> <p> </p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DAR3ejzyySU/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Sofar Sounds Bay Area (@sofarsoundssf)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></p> <p>7. <span style="font-weight: 400;">Claire Ernst’s debut album, </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/0PelhWEycAMaDEvbYxcuJ8?si=pD-s5bmgQGm0RRdzNYpsMg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Oh, Hello!</span></i></a><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">,</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is a delightful intro to her genre-blending style. She’s mastered the ‘Shania Twain’ country-pop hooks, with a seamless mesh of timeless R&B. The track </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/5KoF1ogZo5BNZRNwgz71gl?si=bc62944b8f5745b8" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Me at the Moment”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is as catchy as it is clever, and lucky us, she’s </span><a href="https://www.claireernst.com/tour" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">teasing even more shows for the summer</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. (Starting in Nashville, naturally).</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="Funny Now by Claire Ernst (Official Music Video)" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XPlpz8fzkZA?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Catch these artists and more just like them at </span><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">a Sofar near you!</span></a></p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/sofar-artist-news-may-2025/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Sofar throwbacks: Must-watch performances handpicked by our team</title> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/sofar-must-watch-performances</link> <comments>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/sofar-must-watch-performances#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[cat.kiene]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 15 Feb 2025 05:12:59 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Artists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Community]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Round-up]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Allah-Las]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Beans on Toast]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ben Cosgrove]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Enrique Ive]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Khruangbin]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Olivia Dean]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ramzailech]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Yal Solan]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/?p=3927</guid> <description><![CDATA[While picking ‘favorites’ can be–tricky, every Sofar team member has that one video that means a little something more to them. Whether it’s the energy boost or the intimate atmosphere, these performances capture the Sofar experience in a special way. Check out this expert-approved list of unforgettable Sofar moments! Allah-Las | “Catamaran” “One of my […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While picking ‘favorites’ can be–tricky, every Sofar team member has that one video that means a little something more to them. Whether it’s the energy boost or the intimate atmosphere, these performances capture the Sofar experience in a special way. Check out this expert-approved list of unforgettable Sofar moments!</span></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Allah-Las | “Catamaran”</span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“One of my favorite bands playing in an LA dorm room on the verge of a big break. This video is a testament to Sofar’s acute talent-finding ability and a literal example of our goal: to make fans feel like they’re in an artist’s bedroom.” – Ryan</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="Allah-Las - Catamaran | Sofar Los Angeles" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AelqxdeZcrA?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Beans on Toast | “The War on War”</span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Beans (on Toast) is one of my favourite British folk singers, and I recently discovered this performance he did 10 years ago! <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/16.0.1/72x72/1f92f.png" alt="🤯" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> He’s talking about this ‘new song’ and, that he can’t remember the first line because it’s new—so it feels like a time capsule. This track is now one of his most popular songs, and when I saw him again live last year, he reflected on it in a modern context and whether or not he should still play it. This is what I love about folk and protest music—it doesn’t matter how old the songs are, they will always hit a level of social consciousness and responsibility. I think we could all be a little more like Beans <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/16.0.1/72x72/1f9e1.png" alt="🧡" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" />.” – Fran</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="Beans on Toast - The War On War | Sofar London" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sKTGG-z4Q1M?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ben Cosgrove | “Pine”</span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“This performance always hits me in the feels and showcases the combination of artistry and intimacy I can’t find anywhere except at Sofar shows. Ben’s music is a roller coaster of emotions and leaves me absolutely captivated. I always share this video when friends ask what the Sofar experience is all about.” – Anna</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="Ben Cosgrove - Pine | Sofar Boston" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kAoR-hJte3k?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Enrique Ive | “Summer God”</span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“This is one of my current favorites: ‘Summer God’ by Enrique Ive from Sofar Gran Canaria. The entire performance feels like I’ve bottled up a perfect summer night and can relive it over and over. Moments like Enrique’s jazzy runs at 3:57 or the seamless communication between him and his accompanist at 1:00 capture an intimacy I’ve only ever experienced at Sofar shows.” – Angela</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="Enrique Ive - Summer God | Sofar Gran Canaria" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/R3nCL2yTy-k?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Khruangbin | “August Twelve”</span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Some of my favorite shows are in small, intimate venues, and I’m so jealous I wasn’t at this </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Khruangbin Sofar Bristol show… nine <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/16.0.1/72x72/1f44f.png" alt="👏" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> years <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/16.0.1/72x72/1f44f.png" alt="👏" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" />ago. I would’ve loved to see them before they started playing on the big stage. This performance has all the smooth, groovy vibes that I need in my life.” – Kaleigh </span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="Khruangbin - August Twelve | Sofar Bristol" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DAY1WVZDl2g?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Olivia Dean | Sofar Listening Room </span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“This Listening Room from Olivia Dean came out in mid-2020—a time when I desperately needed something to get excited about. I fell in love with her as an artist because of her silky vocals and the infectious vibe captured in this video. I finally got to see her live a few years later!” – Jenny</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="Olivia Dean - LIVE | Sofar London" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KptlrKLIUE0?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ramzailech | “Lidiya Frielech”</span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Nine years ago, a ‘Klezmer’ band from Tel Aviv ventured into an edgy, creative Berlin flat. The sheer joy in the room is palpable and infectious even today. It’s worth watching all the way through—at the 4:21 mark, it kicks into the highest gear. I can’t help thinking about the history between Jews and Germans and the way humanity heals. Also, it busted any old myths that Sofars need to be chill, sit-down affairs. Meanwhile, the instrumentation and overall vibe is something to behold.” – Rafe</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="Ramzailech - Lidiya Frielech | Sofar Berlin" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/btJCyWNideA?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Yal Solan | “You’re the One That I Want” (</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Grease</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Cover) </span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Radha and Steph from the marketing team sent me this video my first week at Sofar, and it, well… gave me *chills*. </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Grease</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is my favourite childhood movie, I’m obsessed with musicals and theatre, and watching this rendition from this beautiful artist in Beirut was like having Sofar fairy dust sprinkled all around me.” – Diana</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="Yal Solan - You're the One That I Want (‘Grease’ Cover) | Sofar Beirut" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/z4Stq6FNy2c?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ready to discover artists just like these? </span><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Browse Sofar shows near you.</span></a></p> <p> </p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/sofar-must-watch-performances/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> </channel> </rss>