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Will Preston’s 20-Year Ride: From It’s My Will to the “Merry Go Round”

Music Observer Staff on January 21, 2025

By: Ryan Bazinet

Will Preston is more than an R&B singer. He’s a smooth vocalist. An entrepreneur. And above all, a storyteller, weaving tales of love and heartbreak for two decades. His latest single, “Merry Go Round,” finds him stepping off the well-tread path of romantic balladry into something darker, deeper, and emotionally raw. It’s a topic many will find relatable.

“I wanted to capture a moment where love wasn’t so easy,” Preston says. The track is a hypnotic dive into the push-and-pull of a relationship with a dark side, a love that feels more like a trap than a triumph. It’s a stark departure from his signature love songs, leaning into the cyclical pain of toxic connections. “Most of my songs are about finding love or choosing to stay in it,” he reflects. “This one’s about getting stuck in a loop—and wanting off the ride.”

Now you’re laying beside me, I’m wondering how you made it here

I thought I left you behind me, but you never disappeared

Life threw us some changes and you said you had to leave

So I said goodbye to you but you’ve come right back to me

Here we go again on this merry-go-round

The vulnerability is palpable. Over the slowly burning R&B beat is the unmistakable sound of an artist unafraid to show the scars behind the melodies.

For Preston, “Merry Go Round” is the latest landmark in a journey that began with his 2005 debut, It’s My Will. “To think I’m celebrating 20 years this year…it’s surreal,” he says. Two decades in, Preston is still breaking new ground. The music industry he entered in 2005 is unrecognizable today—no Spotify or TikTok back then—but he’s navigated the twists and turns with agility, embracing the global reach made possible today by streaming and social media.

His openness extends to the creative process. He’s been collaborating with producers from Atlanta to Russia, even dipping into Afrobeat sounds for his upcoming project. “I’m always experimenting,” he says. “You can’t stay still in this industry.”

The year ahead is shaping up to be a big one. Alongside “Merry Go Round,” Preston is planning a series of shows celebrating It’s My Will, performing the album in full, paired with a special vinyl release of previously unreleased tracks. “It’s for the fans,” he says. “This music has been part of their lives as much as mine.”

But music isn’t his only outlet. After losing his father suddenly, Preston launched My Best Interest Apparel, a clothing line inspired by the urgency of living fully. “Losing my dad reminded me how short life is,” he says. “I want to create on every level I can. And I don’t want to wait.”

Atlanta remains home base, a city he calls a “melting pot” of creativity. “It’s rare to meet someone actually from Atlanta,” he laughs, highlighting the city’s global pull. His collaborations reflect that diversity, crossing borders and genres as quickly as he shifts between his music’s personal and universal themes.

After 20 years, Will Preston isn’t just surviving—he’s thriving. With “Merry Go Round,” he’s proven to have new stories and sounds to tell and explore. As he puts it, “I’m just getting started.”

That’s good news for his fans, who won’t want to get off this ride soon.

Listen now to Will Preston’s full catalog of music on Spotify. Check out his many music videos on YouTube. And be sure to follow him on Instagram, TikTok, X, and Facebook.

Published by Stephanie M.

Why Cash Campain Is the R&B Artist to Watch in 2025

Music Observer Staff on January 21, 2025

R&B artist Cash Campain is an enduring force in an industry often crowded with fleeting talent. With a sound that blends the nostalgia of 90s R&B with modern urban soul, his artistry has captivated audiences and set him on a trajectory toward superstardom. For those who haven’t yet discovered his music, the time to catch up is now—because 2025 is shaping up to be Cash Campain’s breakout year.

Cash has been meticulously crafting his career for years, both publicly and behind the scenes. His dedication to his craft is evident in the seamless fusion of creativity and hard work that defines his music and brand. From the sultry vibes of his single “Million,” inspired by Aaliyah’s timeless melodies, to the emotionally raw and reflective “Anyway” featuring Mistah F.A.B., Cash’s catalog is a masterclass in storytelling and sonic innovation.

His music videos, like the beautifully cinematic “Want You”, directed by Tyler Polani while featuring lyricism by Aleja Ajela, wrapped in production by “Made by Harry”, have drawn acclaim for their visual artistry and emotional resonance. But Cash’s creative output doesn’t stop at music. In a remarkable display of versatility, he recently published his second book, Everything You Need (And Some Things You Think You Don’t), a self-improvement guide that has quickly gained traction among readers seeking clarity and motivation. The book offers practical advice wrapped in Cash’s signature blend of wisdom and authenticity, solidifying him as a voice for inspiration and introspection. He’s set to make waves on the small screen with his role in the Michaela Shelton written and directed television project “Reckless Behavior: The Series”, proving that his charisma and depth as a storyteller translate seamlessly to acting.

“When it came to my second book, I wanted to write something that people could carry with them through any season of life,” Cash shared in a recent interview. “It’s about giving yourself the tools to grow and thrive, even when you don’t need them. Meanwhile, ‘Reckless’ has just been a blessing of creativity, art, and community.” Fans have praised the book and ‘Reckless’ as “transformative” and “a game-changer,” with many noting each possesses the same honesty and heart Cash brings to his music.

Cash’s journey is a testament to persistence and balance. While steadily accumulating over 5 million streams across music and media platforms, he also earned a Doctor of Business Administration. His ability to excel academically while pursuing a thriving music career speaks volumes about his work ethic and drive. This combination of talent and tenacity has kept Cash at the forefront of both his craft and his personal growth.

As the new year unfolds, the stars align for Cash Campain to receive his long-deserved recognition. His dedication, creativity, and resilience have built a foundation that’s set to launch him into unprecedented success. Those who have followed his journey know that 2025 will not be his arrival but his ascension.

Now is a great time to start if you haven’t explored his work yet. Listen to his music, check out his books, and follow his journey as it unfolds. In 2025, Cash Campain is an artist making waves—someone truly worth paying attention to. Don’t miss the chance to be part of his story from the start.

Ready to dive into Cash’s world? Follow his journey on Instagram (@cashcampain) and YouTube, or visit their website for the latest updates. His art isn’t just consumed – it’s experienced.

Published by Tom W.

Voltaire’s Ghost: A Musical Evolution from Colorado’s Hills to the National Stage

Music Observer Staff on January 21, 2025

The Origins of Voltaire’s Ghost

Emerging from the hauntingly beautiful landscapes of Western Colorado, Voltaire’s Ghost is carving its niche in the music world with a distinctive blend of Rock, Gothic, and Classical influences. The band’s sound, often described as Dark Pop or Cosmic Goth, channels an otherworldly energy that captivates audiences across genres. Behind this innovative act is Magnus, a Grand Junction native and the band’s guitarist and founder, whose vision has propelled the group into the national spotlight.

The journey began in the summer of 2023, when Magnus undertook an ambitious project: releasing a single every Tuesday from May to September. The 17 tracks included symphonic works like “Night of the Pumpkin Thieves,” originally composed for a film soundtrack. Reflecting on the project’s success, Magnus remarked, “The response to the singles was beyond what I’d hoped for. Industry representatives started reaching out on social media almost immediately.”

One of those who took notice was award-winning Nashville producer Dean Miller, son of Country legend Roger Miller. By late summer, Magnus and Miller had plans to record an EP in Nashville. However, there was one critical element missing—a band.

Building the Band

In the autumn of 2023, Magnus began assembling a lineup of musicians to bring his compositions to life. Ruby Juhl, a singer and university student, answered an ad for a lead vocalist, while drummer Joshua Eggstaff joined after meeting Magnus while giving drum lessons at a local music store. Pianist Max Reilly completed the lineup, and the group began rehearsing and performing locally to prepare for their upcoming recording sessions.

By January 2024, Voltaire’s Ghost was ready to enter Nashville’s legendary Sound Emporium Studios. Under the guidance of Dean Miller, the band recorded five tracks for what would become their first EP, NEMESIS. The studio, known for hosting icons like the Smashing Pumpkins and Robert Plant, provided the perfect backdrop for the band’s hauntingly evocative sound.

Rising Through the Ranks

The debut EP, released in May 2024, marked a turning point for Voltaire’s Ghost. The band’s unique style and compelling performances began attracting a wider audience. During the spring and summer of 2024, they embarked on a Southern California tour, highlighted by a performance at the iconic Whisky A-Go-Go on June 22. A second tour in October solidified their growing reputation.

In the same year, Voltaire’s Ghost joined Curtain Call Records, a move that expanded their reach and resources. Under the label, they released a holiday single, “Christmas Prayer,” on December 6, 2024. Despite a packed schedule, the band began recording new material for their first full-length album, set for release in 2025. Additionally, an expanded version of the NEMESIS EP, featuring live tracks, is also slated for 2025.

A Promising Future

As Voltaire’s Ghost continues to grow, their influence within the Gothic Rock genre is unmistakable. The band’s ability to blend the haunting with the melodic, the classical with the modern, has positioned them as a standout act in the music industry. Their evolving story—from Magnus’s solo project to a full-fledged band touring iconic venues—is a testament to their dedication and creativity.

Fans and newcomers alike can anticipate more from Voltaire’s Ghost in the coming years. With a new album and expanded EP on the horizon, their journey promises to inspire and intrigue. For more updates and to experience their music firsthand, visit their official website or follow them on Spotify and TikTok.

Connect with Voltaire’s Ghost

Published by Tom W.

Manny Martinez and Birth of Happiness: Music as a Journey of Transformation

Music Observer Staff on January 21, 2025

The Beginning of a New Chapter

Manny Martinez’s life changed forever in 2019 when he found himself facing one of his darkest moments. Struggling with the grip of alcoholism, he hit rock bottom on a cold bathroom floor, feeling an overwhelming sense of despair. That night, as mockingbirds sang outside his window, a profound transformation began. Martinez later described it as a moment when he “both died and was born again.”

This pivotal experience inspired the creation of Birth of Happiness, a rock band born out of resilience, hope, and the healing power of music. The band’s name reflects Martinez’s personal rebirth and his mission to use art as a tool for renewal and connection. For him, music became not just an outlet, but a lifeline—a way to transform pain into purpose.

The Making of the Debut Album

Birth of Happiness’s self-titled debut album serves as a powerful reflection of Manny Martinez’s journey. Each song is infused with raw emotion, chronicling his struggles with addiction and the triumph of finding his path to recovery. The album resonates with listeners by addressing universal themes of hope, healing, and transformation.

Behind the scenes, the project brought together some of the industry’s finest talents. Guitar virtuoso and composer Bryan Baker produced the album, adding depth and sophistication to its sound. Co-producer and engineer Jason Carter, whose portfolio includes collaborations with Black Francis and Danger Mouse, ensured the album’s production met the highest standards. Together, they crafted a collection of tracks that are both emotionally impactful and artistically refined.

Music with a Mission

Birth of Happiness is more than a band—it’s a mission to inspire and uplift. Manny Martinez views music as a powerful medium for healing, capable of reaching people in their moments of vulnerability. The band’s songs explore themes of resilience and redemption, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own journeys and find strength in their struggles.

According to Martinez, happiness isn’t just an emotion; it’s a state of being that requires conscious effort and renewal. Each song on the album serves as a reminder that transformation is always possible, even in life’s darkest moments. Through their work, Birth of Happiness aims to connect with people on a deeply personal level, offering hope to those navigating challenges such as addiction, isolation, and despair.

A New Voice in Modern Rock

The debut album positions Birth of Happiness as a fresh and meaningful voice in the modern rock scene. Their music resonates deeply with audiences, addressing issues that many people face but often feel unable to express. By sharing his personal story through music, Manny Martinez has created a space where listeners can find solace, inspiration, and a sense of connection.

Accessible on major streaming platforms and available in physical formats like vinyl and CD, the album ensures that the band’s message reaches a wide audience. Birth of Happiness’s commitment to authenticity and artistry makes them a standout presence in the music industry.

A Movement Rooted in Renewal

Birth of Happiness is not just about music—it’s about creating a movement centered on resilience and hope. Manny Martinez’s story highlights the profound impact of embracing vulnerability and using creativity as a tool for healing. Through their music, the band invites listeners to embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation.

By turning personal struggles into art, Birth of Happiness serves as a beacon for those seeking renewal. Their work underscores the idea that no matter how challenging life may seem, it’s possible to emerge stronger, more compassionate, and more connected to oneself and others.

For those looking to explore their music or learn more about their journey, Birth of Happiness provides a powerful and uplifting message that resonates across boundaries.

Connect with Birth of Happiness

Published by Tom W.