FAMILIAR FACES WE'LL BE SEEING AT HANGOUT FESTIVAL 2022

May 10, 2022

by valentina ramirez

Right around the corner, we have one of the hottest music festivals this year on the Gulf Shores of Alabama. Hangout Music Fest strives to bring the best names in pop, rock, rap, and dance so you'll get a taste of every music genre imaginable. With a 3-day weekend bender, the festival starts Friday, May 20th and ends Sunday, May 22nd. Whether you're having a family trip or a long awaited girls trip, this is the place to be. Hangout Music Fest is bringing more than music to the table, having fun-filled activities throughout the weekend to keep you busy. We cannot wait to check out all the cool activities Hangout has to offer this year, especially the Roller Disco and Spa.

With a lineup so big and diverse, there are a few artists that we’ve covered in past years. Here are some artists we are excited to see perform again:

Although we’re thrilled to see some familiar artists that we've covered in the past, here are the top fresh artists that we’re excited to see perform at this year's Hangout Music Festival:

Check out the rest of the lineup for the whole weekend down below.

For more information on tickets, travel, and experience visit hangoutmusicfest.com.

'I DON'T MIND' / ALESIA LANI: REVIEW

April 29, 2022

by mariah estran

Texas-based soul artist Alesia Lani wants no time wasted, and her new single “I Don’t Mind” is a reminder.

The funk-filled tune oozes with retro swag as move-inducing basslines cruise through. While confident lyrics bring the heat, demanding, “You better come correct to a lady.” All of which are wrapped in Lani’s adaptive flow, merging with enticing vocals that dazzle within those two minutes and forty-one seconds.

Collaborating with producer QB Smith, the singer says, “The production is so funky, sassy, strong, yet has a smooth-ass groove you can ride to.” Adding, “I just followed the lead and rode the wave of the song.”

That organic connection to the track is clear; her lyricism embraces the assured, uplifting nature that would have anyone reuniting with their worth. And those saucy, retro-esque feelings don’t stop there.

After recording the single at Studio 601 in Austin, Texas, Lani teamed up with director Seven the Shooter to film the music video. Trippy 70s geometric patterns, warm-hued colors, and platform shoes make an appearance. Filmed like behind-the-scenes footage, viewers get to see how the process goes down while getting to know who Lani is as a performer.

She’s a fiery, authentic act who’s created an anthem-worthy number that will have you chanting alongside her, shouting, “I don’t mind.”

RAVIVE: INTERVIEW

April 28, 2022

by abby crabill

Ravive is a singer-songwriter that shares her experiences through a dark pop style known as "ghost pop." On April 8th, Ravive released her debut EP, titled Trauma Response, as an autobiographical collection. Ravive is known for the dark subject matter of her songs that act as a type of therapy for not only herself, but her audience as well. She continues to connect with others through her raw honesty and sinister sounds. Keep an eye on Ravive because she has plans to give us more music in the future.

Can you briefly describe yourself for those who may not know you? Who is Ravive?

Ravive: “I’m Ravive, I call my music ‘ghost pop’. I also toy with alternative elements to try and create a haunting blend of dark pop music. I used to be the lead vocalist of a band called VISTA, that’s where a lot of listeners likely know me from. But Ravive is an enigma, I don’t like to put myself into one small box. I want to continuously explore and experiment.”

What first got you interested in exploring music?

Ravive: “My dad when I was three years old. He was a classical guitarist and I wanted to copy his every move.”

Who would you consider to be some of your greatest inspirations?

Ravive: “Britney Spears. Joan Jett and The Runaways. Miley Cyrus. Ashlee Simpson. Avril Lavigne.”

Can you tell me a little bit about your debut EP, Trauma Response?

Ravive: “Trauma Response is a 7 track collection that guides the listener through a handful of traumatic experiences and what my vices were for each one. For example, the opening track ‘Built To Be Sad’ delves into learning about my genetics and how that affected me. The coping mechanism or vice was drinking at college. The whole EP is really exploratory, I uncovered some things I didn’t know about myself when writing it. There are a lot of sonic elements here, but I still wanted to create a cohesive body of work with Trauma Response.”

Each track on the EP feels extremely personal, what is it about the music that allows the listener to relate with you?

Ravive: “I’m not sure, but I hope it’s the honesty. Music has always been a source of transparency for me. If one person connects with what I’m saying, I feel successful. I want to connect with others through this art form and let them know that they aren’t alone in their thoughts.”

What is it about music and writing that is therapeutic for you when coping with traumatic events?

Ravive: “I’m able to project outwards instead of inwards. Keeping things in has never done me any good. A lot of people think I reveal too much or say too much. I do what feels the most comfortable for me, and that’s what matters the most. If I don’t feel comfortable saying something, I don’t. But if I’m outwardly expressing something, it means that I’m both comfortable and feel safe doing so. I have the opportunity to connect with others through these songs, and that brings on the feeling of safety. Writing really allows me to get the bad thoughts out of my head and onto paper or into a song.”

Writers have a saying that goes, "Bad for life... good for writing." Do you agree with this? What does it mean to you?

Ravive: “I can’t write about happy things. I know that sounds rather pessimistic, but the only way I feel I can productively write is if the subject matter is dark. I hate saying that that quote is true, but it is for me.”

Do you think that you will consider experimenting with lighter sounds in the future?

Ravive: “I don’t think so. What I’m writing is my core, and it feels the most natural to me. I’ve always written in a dark manner, even as a young kid. It’s therapeutic for me to write in a confessional way. ‘Bedroom Talk’ is probably the lightest song on this record, production-wise it still maintains the darker core. But I think that’s as light as it’s going to get sonically. At least for now.”

What else, both musically and non-musically, do you hope to accomplish this year?

Ravive: “I’m currently planning my wedding, so I’m hoping to make a good dent there. I want to release more music this summer, probably a few more singles. I hope to get added to a Spotify editorial playlist, that’s a huge goal of mine.”

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WILL LINLEY: INTERVIEW

April 26, 2022

by lauren kovolenko

World, meet Will Linley, a 20-year-old musician from South Africa with a big heart and huge sound. Read our interview with him below — his creation process, and candid thoughts are quite interesting. After, check out his new song, "wrong time" and vibe away. Follow his socials too! You won't want to miss his journey to rising fame.

How did your upbringing influence you? Did your environment or the people around you inspire you more?

Will: “I grew up in a very musical household. Some of my fondest memories from my childhood are centered around music. Whether I was putting on a concert with my brothers or singing nursery rhymes with my mother, everything I did seemed to be based around music! My brothers are also very musical, and I certainly think I wouldn’t be doing music if they weren’t interested in it from a young age, as the youngest I tended to just copy my older brother’s interests!

As a young artist, what makes you different from those making music before you? How do you stand out?

Will: “This is such an interesting question! I always seem to struggle with this. But as I’ve thought through it the answer has become clearer and clearer. I used to always think that because I wasn’t from America or Europe, I could never make music a legit career of mine. But as I’ve grown, I have seen that that frame of thought is not true! I am South African, and I want to show young people back home that it is possible to dream and believe in those dreams! I want to continue creating with South Africans as much as I can, whether it’s in the music creation process, merchandise collaborations, or music videos. That’s what makes me different, I want to tell a story that is unique to the person I am and the people I create with, and that story is a South African story.”

When you aren't writing songs or making TikToks, what can we expect you to be doing?

Will: “Swimming in the sea, chasing a sunset, or hanging out with friends!”

Have you been to America? If so, what did you like best about it? If not, what are you most looking forward to seeing?

Will: “I just went now for two months! As a foodie, I loved being able to have so many different styles of food! From really good Mexican to incredible Thai food, and who could forget about a good smash burger. I also loved just being a tourist and seeing the Hollywood sign, the Walk of Fame and watching some incredible concerts.”

How has TikTok changed your road to fame? Has it made it easier to reach more people? Do you think it's helped you dramatically?

Will: “Honestly speaking, I would not be in this position today if it wasn’t for TikTok. It truly leveled the playing field and allowed my music to be heard by people in various countries around the world.”

Talk about your sound: how would you describe it to people that don't know you?

Will: “I think I’m still in the process of truly finding it, but I think for the upcoming EP, the songs are snapshots into my mind as an 18 and 19 year old kid. I think each song has its own separate sound and energy, which I love, but what makes it ‘my sound’ is that I’m singing it. I don’t believe in trying to write the same type of song over and over again, I want to continue drawing people in and I intend to keep the listener ‘on their toes,’ not knowing what to expect. So you will see that each song that is released is unique in its own way!”

What do you see yourself doing in a few years from now? What do you want to be doing?

Will: “I hope I’m still doing music! But I definitely want to be touring for sure, I absolutely love playing live for people.”

As an influencer, what is the most fulfilling part about having a platform?

Will: “Being able to connect and touch people’s lives in various ways. Whether it’s sending birthday messages or just chatting to various fans. That’s been my favorite part. I want to really focus on pouring out energy and good vibes in order to try and have a positive impact on at least one person’s day!”

Do you have any particular career goals? What is your biggest dream for the future?

Will: “I would love to play a concert at Kirstenbosch Gardens in Cape Town. That’s where I grew up watching all my favorite artists!”

Are you going to release an album sometime soon? How will it sound?

Will: “An EP is on its way! Full of different styles of songs. I was just focused on having fun in the creation of the project and I do think that is pretty obvious when listening through the songs!”

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MIMI WEBB: INTERVIEW

April 25, 2022

by kaylee pickens

21-year-old Mimi Webb is proof that age is just a number. The young newcomer with hits “Before I Go” and “Good Without” just wrapped up touring with Tate McRae and is surprising fans across the country. Born in Gravesend, England, Amelia Webb is back with a new track that’s gained imminent popularity. “House On Fire,” released in mid-February, this 2-minute song is rocking the charts and playlists far and wide. We were lucky enough to sit down with Webb to discuss tour, her favorite places from home, and much more. You can find Mimi Webb on Instagram and Twitter for more updates on tour, merch, and new music!

How are you adjusting to tour life? 

Mimi: “So good. Yeah, it’s really exciting. And I think just, you know, getting the routine of it and knowing the shows — it honestly feels like it is going quite fast. I think it's just seeing the fans, and the incredible atmosphere, and each different city is just so amazing. Loving it so far.”

If you could tour anywhere where would it be? 

Mimi: “I think EU. It would just be so fun. And I'm doing that in May. So not long now.”

Is there anywhere in the States that you’ve loved so far? 

Mimi: “Texas. I just love the energy. Everyone's so lovely there and they’re just a great crowd.”

How do you cope with being away from home?  

Mimi: “I think for me, I just FaceTime them every day — just checking in because I love to know what's going on at home. Like what are they up to? And always thinking about them and I also have a little picture of my puppy— she’s not a puppy, she’s like three— but I miss her so much.”

What was the writing process like for “House On Fire?”  

Mimi: “‘House On Fire’ was really great because I think it was one of those ones where we knew we wanted to drop something that was really cool, sassy, and out there. But, there was that line because— see, all my stuff is very emotional and a lot more like, you know, heartbreak. So this was one where it's free and I wanted to start the year with a bang. And I think ‘House On Fire’ was just the perfect tune. The whole process was a bit back and forth just changing little bits and trying to make it work for radio and work for all these different things. And I also have my friend, who is an incredible producer, I really wanted him to do some bits on it too. So having him be able to jump on it was great.”

What was the idea behind cover art design?  

Mimi: “I wanted to have an artwork that was inspired by the video as well. Being able to do an artwork that was also linked in with a video — I've never done that before, so I was really excited to do that. The firefighter look, with the video, I wanted it to be really tongue in cheek, exciting, and playing all these different roles making the actual artwork so fun.”

Fav place to eat back home? What do you get?  

Mimi: “I love going to the Ivy and Chelsea's like right around the corner for me; it's just such a nice walk there. I do that a lot and just see my friends, spend time with my boyfriend, my family. [I] love walking around London. I’m always in the studio when I'm at home if I've got like four weeks of no shows, I'm just in the studio every day. It'll be my first summer living in London, so I’m excited to be in the sun and have picnics.”

Fav thing to do? What’s the most English thing you do?  

Mimi: “Having dinners. I mean, I think for me, I just love to be able to go and like sit and just relax and it chills me out to have a glass of wine. But also like, going on walks a lot. I'm from the countryside originally. So, for me, my family, every Sunday we go for walks together with our dogs and it's very loving. And I roast dinners — fish and chips.”

Anything new to share?  

Mimi: “Lots of new music. I'm working on trying to get really cool things to drop at the beginning next year. Like some album stuff. And then lots of music and shows, [and] lots of festivals. A lot of touring, as well at the end of this year. So it's like a really big touring year. And, just dropping as much as I can.”

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