Artist Statement: “My name is Wei Xu and I’m a singer/song-writer from Chicago. I’ve been a singer for over 10 years now being part of a vocal group named Musicality who was semi-finalist of America’s Got Talent. I started my journey as an artist when I decided to study music at University Illinois at Chicago in 2020. Being in a music program has opened up so many opportunities, connecting with a wide range of musicians and artists. This has influenced the music I make today. I’m going to be releasing an EP on October 18th.”
On ‘NOBODY BUT YOU,’ Wei says:
“‘NOBODY BUT YOU’ is the first track from my new EP “REM” and also the first song I wrote for it. This track is especially meaningful to me, as it’s more experimental than my usual sound and went through a year of revisions before reaching its final version. With the help of my connections from the UIC STM program, I was able to have my friend Ben Branda record a saxophone solo, which wasn’t part of the original concept. I also collaborated with talented musicians like Sebastian Vergara; something I’m grateful for as I’m typically more introverted and used to working alone. Their contributions elevated the song beyond what I could’ve achieved on my own. Lyrically, the song tells the story of someone who, due to past trauma, struggles to fully open up to others. When they finally let their guard down, they’re left hanging, repeating the cycle of vulnerability and disappointment, whether in a romantic or platonic relationship.”
Artist Statement: “I’m Zoe Gabrielle! Sometimes I feel like I’m shy, but I’m not shy, I just don’t have anything to say. Hence why I started putting my thoughts into song and growing my sound as an artist. I started putting out my own singles in 2021, with the help of producers accompanying my vision, and since then it's been an incredible ride!”
On ‘front row,’ Zoe says:
“Love is like theater. It's embarrassing, live, and anything can happen at any minute that’s going to make people burst out into laughter. This is something I felt throughout my last relationship, and even friendships throughout my early adult years so far. I hope people can relate as much as I can. “
Artist Statement: I was born in Melrose Park, Illinois, but I stay in Roselle now. I love experimenting with sound. I think being unpredictable in music brings a lot of depth and replay-value to songs, so I try my hardest to make my songs as thought out as possible. I draw a lot of inspiration from Dominic Fike, ericdoa, and Dijon. I suck at introducing myself and the music speaks for itself in most cases, but I’m an open book to anyone with questions! Much love and take care.
On ‘little things,’ raftheartist says:
“It was made with the intent of a cute song that sounds like fall in the city. The songwriting references a strained relationship between a woman and the artist that most people can relate to. In this song, the artist is very persistent in trying to get her to realize they’d do whatever she needs, but the chorus states how she doesn’t focus on the little things the artist would do, and seeks other displays of affection. The second verse is approached with a more self aware style of writing, trying to assess the situation and be more aware of each other's differences, despite knowing they haven’t worked in the past. The artist tries and tells her what they could provide once again before the hook.”