Not every song begins with the confidence to share it. For Toronto soul artist Tara Van, keeping music private for years preceded a decision to work with friends and confidants. "Miles On It" makes those relationships part of its creative identity. The four-track EP addresses love, loss and growth, but its guiding idea is practical. Staying hopeful need not mean doing everything yourself. Van's interests reach through...

Lisa Jo featuring J-Mac has dropped the deeply urgent single "Hope in the Hood", following up on the stark conscious hip-hop showcased on her 2025 album "Hood Rats". Knowing the architect behind the release fundamentally rewires your brain while listening. The independent label founder and former nurse supervisor is currently facing down a terminal diagnosis, racing against failing health to carve out her legacy....