Getting To Know: CHAR
CHAR has swiftly carved out her space in the music world with her introspective and powerful soundscapes. Her collaboration with Flourish on 'Moment (Just a Little Longer)' has soared, making its mark on 7 Spotify editorial playlists and earning CHAR her debut plays on BBC Radio 1's Jack Saunders' Future Artists show twice in 2024. Known for her electrifying performances, CHAR has been compared to early Dua Lipa, showcasing her talent and stage presence at headline shows like The Ton of Brixton.
With the release of 'Breathe Again,' featuring RMDYZ, CHAR continues to captivate listeners worldwide, especially on workout playlists, with her soulful melodies and dance floor catharsis. Beyond her music, CHAR's commitment to mental health awareness through her co-founded non-profit Mad Millennials underscores her dedication to impactful artistry and meaningful conversations.
Fred Again - Angie (I've Been Lost)
2023 was definitely the year of Fred Again for many. I was lucky enough to be at his two Glastonbury sets as well as his Ally Pally show. It felt like total magic, fields and rooms of people connecting so profoundly for their own personal reasons. I was a total mess when this song was played at Glastonbury, I'd had a pretty traumatic year and to belt Angie (I've Been Lost) "I've been lost.. but I'm really trying" at the top of my voice with thousands of other people felt like therapy. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of communal catharsis and it got me thinking just what connects so many people to his music. The song's mantra-like repetition and raw human narratives resonated deeply with me, inspiring my own journey in crafting affirmations through music. When I walked in to write 'Breathe Again' with RMDYZ, we spoke about how powerful this is and how through the really difficult time I'd been through I wanted to write a series of affirmations that encouraged others to say to themselves. Hopefully in a big field one day too..
Drawing inspiration from vocal powerhouses like Amy Winehouse and Adele, I found a kindred spirit in Dua Lipa's smoky, sultry vocals juxtaposed against upbeat dance rhythms. This fusion of genres perfectly encapsulates my own artistic aspirations, blending emotive storytelling with pulsating pop sensibilities. I had this song on repeat when it came out, still gets me in the best mood when I hear it, the infectious energy and soulful undertones.. especially considering it's also the work of Diplo and Mark Ronson. You cannot go wrong with this trio.
Disclosure - You & Me ft. Eliza Doolittle
I remember exactly where I was when I heard Disclosure's timeless Latch in 2013. Disclosure soundtracked so much of my formative years. They embodied the sound of a whole generation if you ask me. "You & Me" featuring Eliza Doolittle exemplifies Disclosure's enduring appeal, its infectious beat and soulful vocals standing the test of time with new remixes still coming out now. As an artist, I aspire to create music that possesses a similar timeless quality, capable of resonating with audiences across generations.
D.O.D - So Much In Love
A newer one for sure but after spending time writing more R&B songs a few years ago, a genre I adore but never felt fully me, I started to allow myself to be flexible, experimenting with different sounds, thinking about what I am drawn to as a listener, fan and also as an artist. Some songs just work for you, this was one from last year that made me go yes this is a bit of me. Fusing my love of lyrics, soulful melodies and husky vocals with dance is what I am loving leaning into more and more.
