Ava Valianti represents something increasingly rare in contemporary music: genuine precocity without artifice. This Massachusetts artist, who is only fifteen years old, handles general themes with a level of emotional depth that is shocking. She shows that youth can bring out the best in complicated human experiences, rather than hiding them. "Distant," her sixth single, functions as a sonic archaeology of friendship's dissolution. The track excavates layers...

Richardine Bartee Named Director of Content At Duke Concept Regularly looking for African artists to support them through editorial placements, radio promotion, and other suitable opportunities, Recording Academy member Richardine Bartee is at the forefront of the Afrobeats movement in America. Within the first week of January, the native New York businesswoman announced the deal she landed with Willow Creek, California radio station: 99.5 FM...