Music Observer

Swiss Sensation Katherine Vollenweider is MLife Music Group Bright New Recruit

  Katherine Vollen : Photo By – Paulo Hez

Katherine Vollenweider’s face recently lit up Times Square, giving us a glimpse of his star rising. 

The 20-year-old singer-songwriter originally dazzled spectators when she appeared on Miss Suisse Francophone competition in 2021. The competition brings french-speakers across Switzerland together to showcase their talents. She represented her small, lakeside town of Neuchatel, and, by placing in the top 10 of contestants, put her home on map as the birthplace of a promising star.

Currently living and working in New York City, the Swiss-born singer is now getting the All-American star treatment. In April 2022, she was featured in Untold Magazine. She was photographed and profiled for the beauty and fashion publication. Following the release of the story, she told her instagram followers that her “future begins now.”

Seemingly to affirm her statement, several important projects followed the release of the article in Untold. She modeled for famed photographer Marc Baptiste. As a guest of her label, MLife Records, and Nasdaq, she appeared at the TEDxWaterstreet Reimagine 2022 event in April. With so much traction under her feet, she made New York her official home in May, committing herself to the continuation of her career. 

Though a transplant to the land of stars and stripes, she continues to stay true to her European roots. She was a guest at the Angel Ball 2022 at New York’s famed establishment, Cipriani. Around the same time, she was in the studio with MLife.

Perhaps her most shining moment to date was her appearance at the Clinton Foundation Gala. Representing MLife, she shook hands (and took photos) with esteemed guests including Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton. 

Check it out Wyclef Jean Attends MLife’s Billboard unveiling ceremony in Times Square, NY in May 2022.

https://youtube.com/shorts/mIf9gXgdheA?feature=share

             Katherine Vollen & Hilary Clinton : Photo By – Paulo Hez

“What a beautiful soul,” Rodham Clinton said following their meeting. “You have a bright future ahead of you, especially here in America.”

Now that she is signed with New York-based label, MLife Records, Ms. Vollenweider is certainly on a path to stardom. Her first single is in the works and due to drop in 2023. 

Rosa Cesareo and Pursuing a Music Career Based on a Natural Love for Music

Turning passion into a career is something that happens every now and then, and many notable people have built names for themselves by turning their passion into profit and, ultimately, careers. Rosa Cesareo’s journey into music began at the age of four, as she would sing and dance to her favorite songs by Amy Winehouse, Brittney Spears and Gwen Stefani. From that point, she would eventually decide to take music up as a career.

The Las Vegas-based 21-year-old musician with an Italian father and Iranian mother has dazzled at different venues and convinced diverse groups of people of her talents and artistry. She had a rich and distinct tone at a very young age and was always eager to show off her skills at karaoke bars. Getting ingrained into music was largely influenced by her parents, who often played music from different cultures in the house. So, she developed a global taste in the craft and created her unique sound from the myriad of sounds she spent time listening to.

While it has been mostly self-developed, Rosa Cesareo’s career had the support of the important people in her life. In middle school, when she decided to learn the piano, her father bought her first piano from consignment as a gift, which went a long way in helping her become the artist she is today. So, from performing music from other artists she enjoyed as a child to self-learning how to play the piano through YouTube, Rosa has come full circle as an intentional artist passionate about the craft.

She wrote her first song at age 15 to express herself and tell stories about what she was going through at the time, a turbulent period in her life. After releasing her songs on SoundCloud for a while, she decided she wanted to study music for her higher education. She proceeded to the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, where she is studying Production & Sound Design in her final year.

Rosa Cesareo has fully immersed herself into her element as a musician and has been taking opportunities that allow her to perform her original songs. She has performed at solo, duo and band gigs in Boston and Las Vegas. Her latest single, “Pretty Eyes,” was released on September 7, 2022, alongside remixes by Grammy-nominated Producer StoneBridge, and mixes from MaxVangeli, The Fifth Guys, Going Deeper and Invisible.

With the new song streaming on all digital platforms, Rosa Cesareo has further enmeshed herself in the music industry as she pursues success and acceptance. She sees herself becoming a globally recognized artist over the next few years. “Music is my life, I couldn’t imagine myself doing anything else” Rosa said, “This is only the beginning, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.” 

How Michael Q Trucks’ Passion for Storytelling Has Helped Him Become a Highly Coveted Musician and Actor

People have varying ideas and opinions on what makes music great. Yet despite these differences, many would agree that songs with captivating stories are among the best. Because of this, one up-and-coming artist is rapidly gaining momentum for his impeccable musicality and, most importantly, storytelling: Michael Q Trucks.

The gifted man is a devoted father, rising songwriter, vocalist, and performer, known for his strong flow and melody and propensity for writing catchy hooks and superb verses. For example, he is the mastermind behind several masterpieces such as “Lost,” “Stay,” “No Love,” and “Empty.” In addition, he dropped an EP called Light & Dark in 2019. Just recently, he released his music video for “Mine” on the popular streaming platform YouTube.

What helped the inspiring individual become such a sophisticated musician is his life experiences and passion for the craft. Like many others, his childhood consisted of ups and downs. In fact, the artist recalled having to move often. “Growing up was not always easy,” he said.

But at the same time, he also vividly remembers dancing and listening to songs from Otis Redding, Frankie Lymon, The Temptations, and Prince, a memory that helped shape his love for the arts. Always a performer at heart, the young man joined various school activities like dance competitions. He also joined the band, where he played the drums. He then began writing, singing, rapping, and making music at the age of 14.

Another inspiration for the songwriter’s remarkable creations is his experiences as a military man. He joined the US Navy in 2013, where he came across numerous life-changing events and memorable incidents. 

“Well, being in active duty in the military, I’ve experienced a lot of light and dark stories, I’ve traveled the world and experienced many cultures of people, and I write in different genres, so I think that can definitely set me apart from most in the music industry,” the intuitive man explained.

Aside from his incredible discography and career as a musician, Michael Q Trucks is also a part of film and television productions, both working in front and behind the camera. He was an extra and production assistant for the movie What If, directed by Dallas Jenkins, as well as a production assistant in the D. David Morin-directed Johnny. In 2013, he played the role of Forward in Silver Bells, which Harold Cronk directed.

These impressive accomplishments are a testament to the artist’s unrivaled prowess as a performer. But most importantly, it is a confirmation of his exceptional work ethic, perseverance, dedication, and passion. 

Moving forward, Michael Q Trucks plans to continue creating more music that conveys inspiring messages and fascinating stories. The creative also aims to maintain his upward trajectory and eventually break through the mainstream music scene. But above all, he intends to become an inspiration for people, especially his fans. When asked to share an important piece of advice with his followers, the visionary meaningfully said, “Like any real person, you need to accept the good and the bad that life hands you and keep moving forward.”

 

WRYT Empowers Others and Promotes Social Consciousness Through Music

At any given time, people are driven by an endless combination of factors. Some climb the summits of success to secure generational wealth and gain fame, while others secure coveted positions at the pinnacles of their chosen industry to catalyze change and build a better world. Among those whose passion lies in making a difference in people’s lives is Mychael Wright. By wielding the power of music, he sends across a message that will surely transcend limitations, break barriers, and impact the lives of many.

Highly acclaimed for his exquisite talent and undeniable personality, Mychael Wright is an emerging powerhouse of the trade. His incredible expertise and impressive discography have earned countless praises from established authorities, industry powerhouses, and peers, solidifying a reputable stance across the trade. Armed with an unparalleled passion for music, Mychael uses the power of melody to serve as a source of motivation for those who need a voice in this dog-eat-dog world.

Better known as WRYT, this rising artist distinguishes himself apart from talented personalities by fusing grunge-inspired guitar pieces with incisive social consciousness. In this day and age where people are more open and socially aware, WRYT has made it his mission during these times to spread awareness about several significant issues that have continued to plague society today. Thus, this power player is not only an artist whose melody has rung the hearts of many but also a musician whose tracks speak volumes of the struggles of those who have remained silenced and oppressed.

Although WRYT seems to possess a vision that has existed since time immemorial, this rising artist’s path to success has an underlying story that started in church. Before entering the scene with his socially conscious disposition and empowering lyrics, WRYT was a church worship leader who pursued a career in contemporary Christian music. His approach was filled with gospel tunes, which was liked by many believers, leading to the release of his worship-oriented EP entitled Grace. However, in the middle of carving his way to the summits of music, he experienced a spiritual crisis of conscience, which precipitated an eventual career shift towards a more empowering path. Years down the road, WRYT became an artist producing tracks that not only showed his faith-driven passion for the craft but also demonstrated his purpose-driven vision of creating a better world through music.

Having rebranded himself as a forward-thinking and socially-conscious artist, WRYT has been dropping songs that amplify his quest to materialize his purpose-driven vision. Two of those tracks that touched on some of today’s most significant issues are “Ivory Tower” and “Milk and Honey.” “Milk and Honey,” in particular, is a song that is dedicated to his family, which tackles their journey as African Americans in the United States.

“I think of it as a love letter to my family,” shared WRYT. “It is an examination of the reality that many marginalized groups face on a daily basis. While I am focused on my family’s narrative, I think my songs also echo the struggles that many families have gone through,” he added.

Throughout his blossoming career, people have consistently seen WRYT thrive and get ahead. With a success story under his arsenal, he hopes to become an inspiration and instrument of transformation for many young aspirants worldwide.

Up-And-Coming Artist Alexander Yearns Shares His Inspiring Journey in the Music Scene

There comes a time in a person’s life when they encounter something so moving and profound that it dictates the course of their future. For musician Alexander Yearns, this life-changing experience happened when he first heard Elvis Presley’s The King Of Rock’ N’ Roll: The Complete 50’s Masters CD box set.

He was rummaging through his uncle’s basement in Palisades Park, New Jersey, one day when he stumbled upon the album. Ever the curious type, he immediately grabbed his stereo and listened to the entire five-disc compilation. Finally, after nearly six hours of nonstop rock n roll, he finished all 140 songs. The young man found the journey so captivating and hypnotizing that he felt something inside him unlock: a passion for music. Since then, he has become obsessed with one of life’s most potent intangibles.

Less than a year after that fateful experience, Alexander Yearns pursued his newfound love and asked for his very own drum kit. Before long, things fell into place, and his career as a professional musician began. He was only thirteen when he joined a band that primarily performs music inspired by the New Jersey rock n roll scene.

The gifted teen was the group’s drummer, alongside his older brother and other guys from their neighborhood. On top of that, he also utilizes his unrivaled artistry by writing songs, making records, and touring together with the group.

However, after six years in the band, the young man felt it was time for him to spread his wings and find his voice as a solo artist. This change of pace finally allowed the talented individual to tap into his inner emotions. As a result, he was able to consistently write songs and create music that reflected his true feelings. He also started exploring new instruments and learned how to play the guitar, which greatly aided his songwriting journey.

He has since launched several projects, including his debut EP, To Each of Us, which was released in October 2018 and produced at Strange Weather Recording Studio in Brooklyn. The collection contains five tracks that dance on the edge of psychedelic folk-rock while the artist’s electrifying voice hovers over an experimental and, at times dominating, moody acoustics.

Three years later, the singer-songwriter dropped his first-ever full-length album, Phoenix, which marks a new chapter in the musician’s life. The LP features quieter tracks that are stripped back, with each song being a bit rawer and baring more soul than the last, a stark contrast to the lively and upbeat theme of his first album.

With such an impressive discography, there is no doubt that Alexander Yearns is one of today’s most promising performers. In fact, he is making waves in the music scene for his one-of-a-kind sound and poetic lyrics that ensnares the senses of every listener.

Moving forward, the musical prodigy plans to continue expanding his horizons by creating songs that people can connect with and relate to. He is already preparing to record his next body of work, which will be available soon. In the meantime, fans and music lovers can listen to his other songs on all streaming platforms, including Spotify. They can also listen to My Void, a series of instrumentals he has collected over the years, available exclusively on Bandcamp.

Lucas Muñoz: The Music Sensation from Central Florida Making Waves

Lucas Muñoz is a guitarist, singer, and songwriter from Central Florida. He began playing the guitar at four, learning from his father, a professional jazz guitarist. Lucas started his music passion by playing at church early with his father and singing in his choir throughout middle and high school. Originally a native of New Jersey, Muñoz identifies guitarists such as Slash, Gary Moore, Joe Bonamassa, and Eric Johnson as some of his musical influences. Still, the biggest of them all is his father, with whom he started playing a combination of Latin Blues, Jazz, and Fusion in the local scene in Central Florida.

In 2010, Muñoz moved to Florida. He was only aged 14, and he started to invest more in his music career. He proceeded to Warner University for his undergraduate degree at 18, where he became heavily involved with performing arts. At one point, Lucas played guitar for the University’s chapel band and jazz ensemble. It was while playing at the University that he had his first tour experience. 

In 2018, Muñoz began to take an actual interest in studying the jazz genre, particularly in South Florida. He also strives to hone his skills in singing, songwriting, and playing guitar. That year, Muñoz started to play different styles across all genres of music. He graduated with his Bachelor of Business Administration in 2018 and his Master of Business Administration in 2020 from Warner University.

 In 2020, Muñoz released his debut EP titled “Mutasis.” The EP, a combination of genres such as dark pop, hip-hop, blues, rock, and alternative, represents all of Muñoz’s musical influences. Lucas admits that getting out of his comfort zone as a musician separates him from his competition, particularly the older generation. He expressed that remaining confined to a particular genre is one of the pitfalls for older musicians. But as young blood, he believes his ability to alternate between genres and styles keeps him ahead in his game.

As a Gen Z, Lucas hopes to reach people of his generation and background. He continues to strive to have his music resonate within his generation. His music also addresses topics previously taboo in preceding generations, such as mental health.

As a performer, Muñoz wants to make sure that everyone in the audience feels accepted for who they are and feel free to express themselves however they want. In his words, “I dedicate my work as a musician to channel my life experiences and translate them to the song. I want to make sure that whoever is listening to my song can fully relate to the message or draw their interpretations, especially my instrumental songs. I like the people who listen to my music to use the songs as a means of healing, solace, escape, and enjoyment.”

In five years, Lucas sees himself doing what he loves most: performing in front of people, writing, and recording music. “I want to make an impact on as many people’s lives as I can. I want to give happiness to people that are struggling every day through music. I want to work with like-minded people within the industry to make music that speaks for my generation,” he explained. “I see myself being able to make a career in the music industry. I see myself being a role model for younger people and relating to them through my music.” With the rate he’s going now, he’s not far off from that goal.

Learn more about Lucas Muñoz and details of how you can stream his music here.

Cameron Hardy, an Up-and-Coming Artist Set to Debut in 2021

Today, singer-songwriter Cameron Hardy awaits the highly anticipated release of his debut single. The forthcoming project—including co-writes from industry powerhouses such as Delacey (Halsey’s #1 hit “Without Me,” Zara Larsson’s “Ruin My Life”), ROLLO (Ava Max’s Certified GOLD “So Am I,” Noah Cyrus’ “Lonely”), Ryan Ogren (Maroon 5’s “Nobody’s Love”)—will hit streaming services this spring.

Collaborating with creative director Amber Park, the captivating debut video will unveil the world of Cameron Hardy, driven by expensive, elevated, iconic elements and overall luxurious visual identity. The video will premiere exclusively on YouTube Music/VEVO.

Of the debut track and forthcoming project, Hardy says, “It feels so good to finally be releasing the first single so soon! I’ve spent years locked in a studio, figuring out who I am as an artist and I’m ready to reveal that to the world. A theme that resonates throughout the project, ‘I Thought You were Lonely’ is about the pain that comes with losing someone after being at your most vulnerable. It also touches on the duality of the heartbreak and gratitude, something that you often go through at the end of a relationship.”

Cameron has a social following that reaches an audience of over 11.5 thousand on Instagram. Cameron teased the debut track on his Twitter. You can listen to it here

2021 sees Hardy commanding complete creative control through writing his own songs, producing and creating his own visuals—further solidifying himself as an embodiment of the modern-musical generation.

Learn more about Cameron Hardy through his website, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube channel.

Rising Artist Mischiff Shares How He Jumped From a DJ to Pursuing a Career as a Singer

Everyone goes through emotional battles, and they often overcome those battles by different means. Some people prefer to use a more physical outlet and hit the gym to relieve stress, but others choose a more creative outlet through various forms of art. Mischiff is among those people who preferred to escape through music. It became a passion that eventually led him to become one of New York’s rising artists.

Mischiff was always a creative individual. When he was younger, he would always find activities to keep himself busy instead of watching television or playing video games. His constant desire to keep himself busy would pay off when in 2012, Mischiff started his music career. At just fifteen years old, he  was inspired to become a DJ when he stumbled into the late DJ AM works.

The young DJ would spend countless months working on his craft until, eventually, he was ready to showcase his talent. He would emerge as DJ Mischiff, taking inspiration from the nickname “Malito,” which is Spanish for ‘mischievous child.’ 

Mischiff got his first opportunity to DJ at a school dance at his middle school in Freeport, New York. The event proved to be a stepping stone as his musical career flourished shortly after that. Mischiff began to grow interested in music production, and eventually, he got into it. The skillset would prove helpful later down the line as he went on to DJ at several clubs and events. 

While Mischiff practiced his craft, he also pursued a career as a Public Affairs specialist for the New York Army National Guard. During his service, Mischiff’s creativity only grew as he learned photography, videography, and journalism. Serving in the army also taught Mischiff time management, a skill needed when masterminding a musical career. Upon completing his service, the young DJ would return to the music scene with an arsenal of tools and experience to showcase the debut of his original music.

What makes Mischiff a unique artist is an authenticity in his image and music. While others are managed and told about the kind of gimmick their look and sound have to be like, Mischiff has complete creative control, bringing originality to his overall brand. He is an independent artist intent on making it on his own in the music industry.

Despite starting his career early as a DJ, Mischiff can delve into different music genres. He isn’t the type to be pegged down in one genre and instead prefers to go with the flow and always experimenting with music. Mischiff tends to pay attention to the details as an artist, keeping everything running on time, organized, and perfect. 

People can find Mischiff’s works on Spotify and Apple Music. He recently set up a YouTube channel where he has uploaded four music videos. Although he is relatively new to music outside of being a DJ, Mischiff foresees success as an artist in multiple genres in the years to come.

To learn more about Mischiff, you may visit his website. He also posts updates on his Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter