Electro-Pop
Keelan X Modernizes Eurovision Classic “What’s Another Year”
Keelan X is the project of transient Irish artist, Keelan Cunningham. Having cut his teeth as a musician in bands during the Indie music height of the 90s, Keelan has transformed his creative output by tapping into his fascination with Synth, Electro and Pop music.
2022 saw Keelan X at his most prolific with the release of singles “These Days,” “Fever” and “The Other Side.” His love of classic 80s synth soundscapes ranging from Moroder to Tears For Fears, combined with a growing admiration for a modern take on the genre developed by the likes of The Weeknd, is laid bare in the woozy sonics Keelan X produces.
The latest single, “What’s Another Year,” perfectly combines these two influences into one expertly crafted synth-pop song. Profoundly affected by fellow countryman Johnny Logan’s 1980 Eurovision Song Contest-winning entry, Keelan X was inspired to recreate the track in his own image. Commenting on the single Keelan says:
“This is a bit of a departure for me; adapting a Eurovision-winning ballad into a slightly more up-tempo, modern pop track. I always loved the song (by Shay Healy) and thought it would be interesting to give it a Synth Pop makeover. It’s my favourite song ever put forward by Ireland to the Eurovision. It’s very musical…I just love the wistful melody line & vocal delivery by Johnny …and the instrumental sections are beautifully crafted by Bill Whelan (of Riverdance fame). All these elements in the song’s composition appealed to me as a songwriter”.
Working with London-based pop producer Imad Salhi, Keelan X has honoured the original incarnation of the song, whilst injecting a hazy, shimmering Electro-Pop veneer. The track is accompanied by a sumptuous Cyber-Punk/Anime-inspired animated video charting the journey of a young lad travelling back in time to The Hague, 1980 to meet Johnny Logan just prior to his iconic Eurovision performance.
The single kickstarts Keelan X’s 2023, as he releases further singles throughout the year. With a multitude of press support including RTE 2, Amazing Radio, Today FM, The Vinyl District, Synthpoplover, Hot Press, Sunday Times, Side-Line Magazine, and Electricity Club, Keelan aims to continue his rise at both home and abroad.
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“GUARANTEE” is one of the coolest singles from Black Eyed Peas’ ninth studio album, ‘ELEVATION.’ Will.i.Am and his group opted for a more Pop-oriented approach in this catchy tune.
The music video was created using artificial intelligence and it looks pretty futuristic. Of course, Black Eyed Peas never ceases to surprise old and new fans with their authentic style and creative concepts for their projects.
On the other hand, the lyrics convey a message of intense desire, love, and a promise to fulfill the other person’s needs and desires. This is a fun composition that you can dedicate to your lover if he has really touched your heart.
As a matter of fact, the ‘ELEVATION’ album boasts an impressive lineup of renowned artists such as Anitta, El Alfa, Anuel AA, Marshall Jefferson, J. Rey Soul, Daddy Yankee, Nicky Jam, Nicole Scherzinger, and Ozuna. A significant portion of the tracks in the album carry the infectious and popular Reggaeton vibe too.
Certainly, a rich and diverse musical experience that you won’t want to miss.
Lastly, these guys have been rocking for decades, and they know how to stay current and admired by everyone thanks to their chameleonic style.
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With vocals that are radio-friendly and lyrics that everyone can relate to, Eva Spanko will capture your attention. “What Are We Now?” is a brand-new Electro-Pop track that encourages you to think about your love relationship.
Of course, she excels not only in singing but also in her ability to write powerful songs. The title itself, “What Are We Now?” implies uncertainty and a desire for clarity, which is something pretty common when you’re dating someone you really like. And sometimes this type of situation goes beyond a platonic relationship.
Personally, I admire her creativity in producing such an excellent composition that you can dance to and sing along with, especially during moments of introspection.
Unlike traditional poppy anthems that often celebrate the joys and excitement of being enamored, reflective love songs delve into the complexities, and bittersweet aspects of connections.
Without a doubt, “What Are We Now?” could be a perfect example of this subgenre of romantic songs. And that’s exactly the magic of music because there’s always a tune that can beautifully interpret the myriad emotions and experiences that love brings.
In addition, the music video showcases a simple and intimate choreography that explains it all.
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Experience a wave of nostalgia as The Last Concorde and The Lightning Kids bring retro sounds to the table in their excellent collaboration “Back To You.” Let Emma Ballantine’s talented voice seduce your ears!
One way or another, “Back To You” takes listeners on a journey through the intricacies of unrequited love, beautifully encapsulating the essence of sun-soaked days and endless nights beneath the starry skies of 1980s California.
Nevertheless, in the official music video, the central characters of this tune find themselves amidst arcade machines on a set. Do you remember playing Pacman and Space Invaders back in your youth?
Perhaps, they are not as famous as Taylor Swift or Miley Cyrus, but when you compose high-quality songs that doesn’t matter at all. Often, good artist are the ones who truly shine thanks to their craftsmanship and passion, regardless of how well-known they are.
Indeed, “Back To You” is like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. If you’re someone who can’t resist the allure of retro-infused melodies, just like me, then you’re in for an absolute musical treat with this specific track.
In conclusion, there’s nothing better than listening to vintage synthesizers and well-written lyrics on an ongoing basis.
You can witness much more in the new album ‘Flashback’ via Spotify.