Early Twenties is the debut LP of singer Cat Burns. She first burst into the music scene in 2016. Eight years later, she released her first album. Is this the best LP of 2024? In the third edition of Music, Movies, and Me Awards, let’s break it down.

It is no surprise that the surroundings influence and shape a person for their future. For example, thanks to her mother, singer Maggie Rogers grew up listening to Lauryn Hill, to name an artist.

For Cat Burns, the gospel music played in the background of her household inclined her towards falling in love with music.

Generally, in the music industry, there is a blueprint to follow before getting signed. Below are the steps (simplified).

1. Build an Image: Choose your stage name, music genre, and audience target.
2. Record music: Before a Long Play (LP), an Extended Play (EP) is mandatory. With an EP or mixtape, artists can approach labels and show what they have to offer musically.
3. Get signed: Should the EP be successful, the label signs the artists and gives the green light for the next project.
4. Build a team: An album is a product of collaboration. Make connections, talk to writers and producers, and let them know your vision.
5. Release an Album: The first LP is the introduction to the world and shows what the musicians have to offer.

In fact, that is what Cat did. In 2016, she self-released her first EP titled “Adolescent.” By 2019, she proved determination and released her second EP, “Naive.”

Unfortunately, the Pandemic (2020) put a stop to the world. However, the only thing that grew was the number of people online.

As a result, through social media channels, Cat Burns’ name started growing due to her singing covers of songs. This led her to get signed by the record label “Since 93.” Later on, she embarked on tour as the opening act for major artists such as Ed Sheeran.

Undoubtedly, lockdown, if used to your advantage, was something positive. That was also the case for Taylor Swift and Justin Bieber, to name a few, who recorded albums during COVID-19.

Her third EP, “Emotionally Unavailable” (2022), proved the consistency and hunger in her as an artist. Finally, on July 12, 2024, step five was checked. That is, to release the album.

early twenties

As Cat Burns stated, the album is the output of four years of work. She started working on it at age twenty. Hence, she grew with it and applied all the lessons learned, the good and the bad ones.

Through the 17 “cathartic” songs, as she calls them, the listener overcomes the sadness. Also, the great thing is that they are relatable to teens and adults.

So, what to expect for her sophomore? Will she play it safe or experiment? The sophomore album is a breaking point for many. According to Missy Elliott, it is the best time to experiment!

After all, Cat has surrounded herself with great writers and producers to deliver a high-standard product. Today, Burns has become the voice of all introverts and can only grow from here on.

Congrats to Cat on the best album of 2024!

Watch “Met Someone” and stream Cat Burn’s “early twenties” below!

1. “Met Someone” music video by Cat Burns. Directed by Libby Burke Wilde (Since ’93, RCA Records, 2024). ↩︎
2. “Early Twenties” album cover by Cat Burns (Since ’93, RCA Records, 2024). ↩︎

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A Week in Nashville by Charlotte Cardin is the fourth overall EP and the first of the year. After two solid albums and a possible third one on the horizon, is this the best EP of 2024? In the third edition of Music, Movies, and Me Awards, let’s break it down.

Since a teenager, Charlotte has had an eye for the camera. But what began as modeling transcended to music. Hence, she began attending music contests such as “The Voice.”

As with other musical endeavors, the blueprints have been laid out before. Below are some steps.

1. Record an EP: The EP serves as the resumé to future record labels.
2. Collaborate: Reach out to other artists and stay open for features. Being introduced to other fan bases can generate great results.
3. Consistency: Although commitment is key, release quality over quantity. This is a core element.
4. Release an Album: The first LP is the introduction to the world. Take a leap of faith.

Needless to say, Charlotte debuted her musical journey in 2016 with the EP titled “Big Boy.” Admittedly, she made quite an introduction, and the project received solid reviews.

She also collaborated with Canadian rapper Nate Husser. One year later, in 2017, she kept consistent and released her second EP, “Main Girl.”

Unfortunately, as she began gearing up to mark step number four, that is to release the album, the COVID-19 pandemic (2020) put her musical endeavors on hold.

However, she gave the world a taste of what she was working on and what to expect next. Finally, on April 23, 2021, Charlotte released her major debut LP, “Phoenix.”

The LP was met with positive reviews and debuted at number one on the Canadian Chart. In the music industry, a music product can give the artists a two-year cycle for releasing the album, videos, interviews, touring, etc. Eventually, the process needs to be repeated.

Hence, she headed to the studio, recorded new material, and two years later released her sophomore LP titled “99 Nights” (2023).

Once again, the album struck the right chord among fans and critics. Like its predecessor, it won “Album of the Year” at the Canadian “Juno Awards.” A bold statement for a newcomer.

A Week in Nashville

Nine months afterward, on May 17, 2024, Charlotte presented to fans a taste of her latest studio sessions in the form of an EP, titled “A Week in Nashville.”

During 9:05 minutes of running time and three tracks, the singer showcases her unique sound under great instrumentation. Instead of over-releasing, she marks step three. That is quality over quantity.

Rarely do artists deliver after their sophomore LP. Think about it. You have made an impact on your debut LP and proved consistent on your sophomore, can you find success for a third time, just like Ashe did?

After all, the third one is a hard climb for many. As of now, Charlotte keeps striving! We will keep an eye on what Cardin delivers on her next album.

Congrats to Charlotte on the best EP of 2024!

Watch “Daddy” and stream Charlotte Cardin “A Week in Nashville” below.

1. “Meaningless” music video by Charlotte Cardin. Directed by Norman Wong (Atlantic, Cult Nation, 2021). ↩︎
2. “A Week In Nashville” EP cover by Charlotte Cardin (Atlantic, Cult Nation, 2024). ↩︎

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KEYS is the 8th studio record by singer and producer Alicia Keys. After two decades of career, she sets the bar high with a double-disc album. She remains original & unlocks a distinct sound. Something she fought for during her early days.

Alicia Cook was born on January 25, 1981, in Manhattan, NYC. With an absent father in her life, she would look up to her mother, who worked multiple jobs to make ends meet.

Growing up in the boroughs of Clinton, molded her to witness the ugly, bad, and good. The ugly & the bad, meaning the daily street violence, and the good, connotating how to navigate and strive to choose her dreams.

Whereas many artists/musicians envision just picking up the mic and singing, Alicia fell in love with the piano. Throughout her teenage years, not only did she master it but explored other genres (i.e., R&B, rap, jazz, and soul).

At just 15 years of age, she signed to a record label. However, when that aspiration became a reality, she witnessed first-hand how the industry operated.

Instead of having the creativity of her sound and the vision she aspired to pursue, -musically, she was overshadowed by executives molding her with unwanted writers and producers.

“I always knew what I wanted,
and I was the only one that could create what I wanted.”

-Noted: Alicia Keys The Untold Stories (2021)

But the lessons of her upbringing shielded her to stay loyal. Eventually, she left her first record label. An unheard move back then when the first step to becoming a musician was to be signed to one.

Regardless, her final vision became a reality in June 2001, with the release of her debut album, “Songs in A Minor.” Afterward, indeed it proved to be just the piano and her.

Later, the album upheld her for being not only a writer but also a producer. Most importantly, she wasn’t boxed just in one category, but in multiple such as R&B, rap, and jazz.

As mentioned in Juice WRLD and Dua Lipa’s posts; the sophomore is even harder than the debut album. Here, you have to prove consistency.

And that is exactly what she showcased in “The Diary of Alicia” (2003). If her previous effort had “Fallin‘,” this one had “If I Ain’t Got You,” which catapulted the project atop the charts.

Amazingly, she did not show any signs of slowing down. In a span of 2 years, she released “As I Am” (2007), and “The Element of Freedom” (2009). Indeed, this girl was on fire (get it?).

Alicia/KEYS

If she dominated the 2000s, she set the bar high entering the new decade. In December 2020 and 2021, she released “ALICIA” and “KEYS,” respectively.

Comprised of a double disc, “KEYS” follows the blueprint of her previous efforts. Beautiful piano melodies filled with dazzling lyrics. Moreover, the LP blends different genres.

Namely, R&B essence by Khalid contributing vocals, rap presence by incorporating Pusha T and Lil Wayne, and rock by inviting singer Brandi Carlile.

As Ann Mincieli (female engineer) states, Alicia is considered a triple threat because she sings, plays the piano, and writes her music. Hence, she looks at her as the female version of Prince (R.I.P.).

“You have to go through many versions of yourself to finally feel that you are enough.
Accept the original of you to become unlocked.“

-KEYS: A Short Film (2021)

In fact, the music industry is understaffed by women. The percentage of female engineers is 1 % and of producers not more than 3 %. Thus, they created “She Is The Music.” A program meant for women to strive in music.

After 21 years into the game and counting, she remains original to herself and unlocks her full potential as a singer & producer on the extended project.

Watch “KEYS: A Short Film” and listen to “KEYS” in its entirety.

1. “Best of Me” music video by Alicia Keys. Directed by TT The Artist (RCA Records, 2021). ↩︎
2. “Keys: A Short Film” by Alicia Keys. Directed by Sylvia M. Zakhary and Sing J Lee (RCA Records, 2021). ↩︎
3. “KEYS” album cover by Alicia Keys (RCA Records, 2021). ↩︎

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Fire: Aries’ Songs is part of a 12-collection set by British singer Birdy. After 4 albums, she decides to have an overview of her catalog, rearrange her songs, and curate them according to the twelve zodiac signs.

Choosing a career path certainly is not an easy decision. After all, it is what a person will profess for the rest of his/her life. However, what does help, or influence in some way, is the parents’ profession.

Indeed, as documented before, that happened to siblings FINNEAS and Billie Eilish, who grew up next to artistic parents. Indifferently, that is what occurred to Birdy.

• Billie Eilish “Happier Than Ever”: Celebrating Joy (2/2)

Firstly, Jasmine Lucilla Elizabeth Jennifer grew up next to books and instruments thanks to her father being a writer and her mother a musician, respectively. Hence, before age 10 ten, she learned how to play the piano and write melodies.

Consequently, this gave her the confidence to enter singing talent shows such as “Open Mic UK,” which she ended up winning in 2008. Although she was only 12 years old, she had more to prove.

Therefore, for the next 3 years, she focused on picking the right songs to turn them into covers for her self-titled debut album (2011).

Even though those not being her songs, the chosen playlist gave the audience a first look at her style to come, and of course, showcased her singing abilities.

Consequently, throughout the next two years, Birdy got to promote and sing those covers beautifully. However, in 2013 it was time to release her own written material. Undoubtedly, the first single called “Wings” proved what she was capable of.

For example, as stated in Chelsea Cutler’s post, an album gives an artist a timeframe of two to three years to release the singles and videos, do interviews and go on tour. Eventually, every musician needs to head back to the studio to repeat the cycle.

Moreover, her third and fourth LPs called “Beautiful Lies” and “Young Heart” were released in 2016 and 2021, respectively. Certainly, both albums again demonstrated her steady evolution from covers to her own written songs.

Zodiac Signs

In 2021, she embarked on an expedition to compile her records inspired by the 12 zodiac signs (e.g., Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces).

So excited to share with you 12 little collections of my music I’ve curated inspired by the zodiac signs ✨ I’ve chosen the songs from my previous three albums + Young heart & the first is ‘Air: Gemini’s Songs’ out today💛♊ https://t.co/UkGstJwCeo

📷: @affairintokyo pic.twitter.com/kENMiYKAFq

— Birdy (@birdy) May 21, 2021

Firstly, her journey started on May 21, 2021, with “Air: Geminis’ Songs” and continued through 2022 with “Fire: Aries’ Songs,” and concluded on April 20, 2022, with “Earth: Taurus’ Songs.”

Indeed, artists have to push their limits when it comes to creativity. Whereas some musicians oversaturate fans with albums every year, Birdy proves that something can be done with what you already have.

Therefore, despite not being new material, the 12-set collection feels fresh, unique, and authentic. Most definitely, it gives the fans something to cherish until the next record, which could take from 2-3 years.

Certainly, sometimes artists need to take a look at their catalog and puzzle it together with fresh new ideas. Undoubtedly, Birdy sets the bar high with her creativity.

So, what is your pick? For instance, are you choosing based on your zodiac sign or based on the compiled music? Nevertheless, make sure to listen to all 12-set records!

Similarly to Justin Bieber and Shawn Mendes, Birdy’s career flourished by singing the right covers. Hence, choosing the right tunes could be the start of something great!

Finally, listen to Birdy’s “Fire: Aries’ Songs“.

1. “Light Me Up” music video by Birdy. Directed by Sophie Muller (14th Floor, Atlantic Records, 2013). ↩︎
2. “Fire: Aries’ Songs” EP by Birdy (Atlantic Records, 2022). ↩︎

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Kings of Leon When You See Yourself is the 8th studio album by the band Kings of Leon. Known for inclining to a heavy sound, now they aim for alternative rock. Is this the best long-play (LP) of the year 2021?

Kings of Leon is a music band formed by brothers Caleb, Nathan, Jared, and their cousin Matthew Followill. It all started in 1999, in Nashville, Tennesse. While still in high school, their love for instruments led them to join forces.

However, great things take time. Their debut LP “Youth and Young Manhood” arrived in the summer of 2003. In contrast to creating a confident impact in their home country (USA), the record resonated with fans overseas.

“If 20 Years from now, no one knows who we are,
we still will know the secrets and hidden messages behind what we were trying to do.”

– Kings of Leon, Recordings of Aha Shake Heartbreak

Similarly, other artists such as Dua Lipa have had quite the same journey. As if you have to make it abroad before climbing the US charts. Indeed, a blueprint for success.

Within two years each, they released the follow-ups “Aha Shake Heartbreak” (2005) and “Because Of The Times” (2007). Projects that slowly but surely began to give them their proper recognition.

Undoubtedly, they reached a new worldwide peak the following year with the single “Use Somebody.” Afterward, the crew rounded their discography with “Come Around Sundown” (2010), “Mechanical Bull” (2013), and “Walls” (2016).

Kings of Leon When You See Yourself

On March 5, 2021, “When You See Yourself” surfaced online. A total of 11 brand new songs, clocking in at a 50-minute duration.

The self-titled opening track kicks off a mixed instrumental filled with drums, strings, electric bass, and delightful lyrics. On the second one, “The Bandit,” the group increases the tempo before “100,000 People” resumes the slow pace.

Furthermore, the next hattrick, “A Wave,” “Golden Restless Age,” and “Time in Disguise” keep the cadence of the project balanced. Lastly, track 11 ends the recording fairytale.

A remarkable fact of Kings of Leon’s catalog is their sonic transition. Undoubtedly, what started as heavy-influenced rock has shifted to smoother, nostalgic, and alternative rock.

To conclude as 2021 reaches its end, on the 1st edition of Music, Movies, and Me Awards, I crown this the best LP of the calendar year.

Despite a brief hiatus in 2011, the band remains stronger than ever, even a decade later.

Watch “The Bandit” and listen to “When You See Yourself” in the link below.

1. “The Bandit” music video by Kings of Leon. Directed by Casey McGrath and Robert Smyth (RCA Records, 2021). ↩︎
2. “When You See Yourself” album by Kings of Leon. Cover artwork by Rebecca Lysen and Casey McGrath (RCA Records, 2021). ↩︎

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People Don’t Change is the newest collaboration between singer Noah Cyrus and producer PJ Harding, released on April 23, 2021. What started as one guitar contribution led to co-writings and full songs. Is this the best extended-play (EP) of 2021?

Should you wish to trace back Noah’s catalog, there is no need to go further than five years. It all started in 2016, with the release of her debut single “Make Me Cry” The following year, she kept improving her vocals by dropping more tracks (e.g. “Again“).

But Noah was ready for more than just singles. Thus, in 2018, she released her first extended play (EP) called “Good Cry.” Here a producer by the name of PJ Harding attributed with guitar strings on the track “Good Cry.”

On the other hand, should you wish to trace back PJ Harding’s (also known as THIEF) catalog, you need to rewind exactly seven years. In 2014, he debuted his EP “Closer.” Regardless, by 2016, he decided to focus more on the writing aspect of music.

In 2019, Harding co-wrote four songs, including “July” for Noah’s second EP “The End of Everything” (2020). Admittedly, they were ready to take it a step further but the pandemic hit.

People Don’t Change

So, would working remotely ever work with Noah living in L.A., California, and Harding in Australia? Surprisingly, the only problem, if anything, was the time difference. Besides that, they collaborated fairly easily over Zoom, and “People Don’t Change” came to life.

In the upbeat track opener, “Dear August,” they find themselves asking for a light at the end of the tunnel. However, “You Belong to Somebody Else,” and “Cannonball” change into a slow ballad.

Furthermore, on “Slow Train Coming,” a beautiful guitar lingers in the background. Last but not least, “The Worst of You” eagerly leaves asking for more.

Plain and simple, with 6 tracks and 17 minutes running time, the EP is the definition of breakups, love, and hope. Who would have thought that by joining forces, a singer from Nashville and an Australian producer would have crafted the best EP of 2021?

Most probably, when the last name Cyrus crossed your mind, you may have thought of her older sister, Miley. Now, Noah has carved a lane for herself.

Watch “Dear August“ and listen to the duo’s “People Don’t Change” in the link below.

1. Dear August” music video by Noah Cyrus and PJ Harding. Directed by Matt Earl (RCA Records, 2021). ↩︎
2. “People Don’t Change” EP cover by Noah Cyrus and PJ Harding (RCA Records, 2021). ↩︎

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