#MUSICMONDAY is a WIN-WIN for us BOTH! Enter the #FLASHINGLIGHTS COMPETITION to get yours!

#MusicMondays are a chance for YOU to put your own name in the spotlight. Through a dedicated Submission Space for you aspiring Artistes, win a total of hundreds of pounds worth of prizes from ESP! If you want to submit your track* for review** email it along with up to 2 press photos, and your single's artwork too, then you can not only win an #ESPspotlight Review worth £9.99rrp (single only); but if you drum up enough Social Media support for your feature through Shares and Likes, and earn the highest audience response of the month***, then you will also win that month's prize - up for grabs in June is...

From the ESPshowcase 'Lights' menu; the 'MegaWatts' package sees the creation and maintenance of accounts on the 5 main websites that any musical newcomer should have a voice on: Twitter, Facebook, ReverbNation, SoundCloud, and YouTube. The prize includes customised, uniform branding, tailored to your Artist Persona. All inclusive, this prize bundle is worth over £50 in the ESPstore.

Send Me Your Sounds!

And if that's not enough...Even bigger and better than before, you can also now submit your track to be played by my mate Ms Charley Jai, Real Talk Radio Presenter on Itch FM, through the ESP Website:

Click to email your tracks!

Here's A Message from Ms Charley Jai...

CALLING ALL 

SINGERS / MUSICIANS 

ON THE ESP BLOG! 

Email your NAME/BIO/Links (clean tracks only) for a (potential) opportunity to have YOUR music played on the Real Talk Radio Show UK, to feature in the Real Talent segment! 

Tweet @MsCJ80 

Entries are accepted up to 5pm every Friday, with winners announced during the following #MusicMonday, on the ESintheP Blog.

So what are you waiting for? GET ENTERING!!!
ES ;)

*    Single tracks only will be considered, mixtapes and other multitrack compilations will be ignored.
**   Winning Entrants ONLY will be reviewed.
*** Month period is 1-28 any given month.
^     Up to 3 individual entries will be considered per person, by separate entry.

#MUSICMONDAY #FLASHINGLIGHTS WINNER - SKAI

Before I delve into all things Mariah this week, let's give May's final 'Flashing Lights' winner her moment in the ESP spotlight. 

The 22-year-old, London-born American wearing this week's crown, goes by the moniker of Skai. She has garnered herself a great deal of positive recognition from the big (lipped) boys in the old US of A. Her career path has taken her from regular appearances on well-known mixtapes by JayZ's resident Club 40/40 DJ; to works by Grammy award winning, Super Producer, Jimi Kendrix. What landed her atop this week's ESP podium though? Well read on and see… 

Drake is reduced to little more than a compere introducing the main act on the radio, in this twist on his own male betrayal anthem. Skai begins to tell of the reasons for her 'Trust Issues' calmly and quietly for a female who's been wronged by a deceitful lover. You initially feel sorry for her, until she breaks down and confesses that his behaviour has driven her to the beds of several other men, for comfort and retaliation (Ladies: less Kandi's ‘Don't think I'm Not’, and more Left Eye's real feelings behind Creep will always find you the Victor - even if only a moral one).

On the flip side, you realise how much damage each is doing the other, by the time Buefford Mallary jumps on for a stellar 16 bars. Most times, the chosen MC sullies the quality of a track. That could just be my opinion, but it does appear to be a running theme…except in this case. This is the true meaning stepping up and representing your team. Mallary's delivery is at times emotional, angry, desperate, and heartbroken. Nice job Sir, well done. He by far outdoes Wale's turn on Mariah's new album for example, but more about that in the album's review.

By the time Skai flips Drake's hook for an equally insulting equivalent, you're left at a complete and utter loss. Why can't they work it out? Why are two people, so utterly in love with the other, so intent on imploding what could be a beautiful love, if they would just stop destroying it! BreddWinnaz production is beautifully elegant and raw, to match the emotions expressed by the singers. Such a nice job, that special recognition is deserved and awarded.

Skai – for so valiantly putting your (sometimes self-inflicted) wounds on wax, #iSaluteU. Not only have you won this week's single review, but also this month's prize of £80 worth of Graphic Design for your next musical release! I'm looking forward to working with you!

Feel like you could compete? Head on over to the Contact page on the ESP Website, enter your submission by uploading it to the ESP Soundcloud Dropbox. And follow that with completing the contact box with your information - et voila! If I like your track the most, you win - simple as!

And what's up for grabs at the end of June? From the ESPshowcase 'Lights' menu; the 'MegaWatts' package sees the creation and maintenance of accounts on the 5 main websites that any musical newcomer should have a voice on: Twitter, Facebook, ReverbNation, SoundCloud, and YouTube. The prize includes customised, uniform branding, tailored to your Artist Persona. All inclusive, this prize bundle is worth over £50 in the ESPstore.

Until the next…!

ES ;)

#MusicMonday #FlashingLights WINNER: VASO MCFLY - WE TRUST

This week's winner hails from Okinawa by way of Brooklyn.

Vaso McFly won this week's draw with his track 'We Trust'. Not too familiar with Christian Hip Hop, it was interesting, and somewhat refreshing, to hear an MMG-like, East Coast clean beat flanked by positive words for once.

You didn't need to hear mention of Rick Ross to spot his heavy influence (no pun intended). Anyone familiar with the Rap fixture will recognise it, and even his style of delivery on guest verses in this three minute and fifteen second fan tribute.

Produced by KIDD, it was the content of the song that made McFly stand head and shoulders above his competition. Uplifting, and as inspirational as it was aspirational; this was the first entry I have received since this competition's inception, with such a good, affirmative message:

"I'd rather send my Blessings and not answer with my fists"

Though not the biggest fan of the artwork for it's conflicted message; much respect goes out to our new Intercontinental friend for shunning the boring, typical type.

Excellent efforts Sir...

Connect with Vaso McFly through his Social Media Catalogue:

Facebook / Instagram / Soundcloud / Twitter / YouTube

If you want to compete with Vaso McFly for that mahoossive end of month prize, all you have to do, is follow these instructions, and submit your entry BEFORE 5PM on Friday. Let's see who's feeling brave!

Until the next...
ES ;)

#MusicMonday's 'Flashing Lights' Winner: Kehlani - The Tsunami That F’s WU…(WARNING: INCLUDES EXPLICIT LANGUAGE)

Musical draws are as individual to us as our fingerprints - what works for one, may not necessarily work for another. Take Yours Truly for example. I'm a sucker for a mean, singalong vocal hook, that stays with you LONG after the song has ended.

That's how I came across this week's #FlashingLights competition winner. Some months ago, she delivered a beautiful chorus for a collaborator that a few (dozen million) people may've heard of, with the precision of a fresh-faced, vocal Olympian. She didn’t overpower the artist on lead (which is probably only part of the reason that he was gracious enough to sit back and let her shine), when it came to her time in front of the mic.

Fast forward to last week, when the most unbelievable case of 6 degrees brought me back full circle to that same, ridonculously talented young lady. Only 4 days prior, I learned her name was Kehlani. Some of you may be familiar with her, if you watched the US of A version of one of our Simon's many talent shows. Thanks to a switched on friend over 3000 miles away, that information came to my attention along with a crucial bit more - that Kehlani's new single, boldly entitled ‘FWU’, was set for release last Thursday. Opportunity had knocked; to not have answered the door would simply have been rude.

Now this explicitly-named single, for want of a better description is a bomb. Not the nuclear demolition machine that it would have been, without the most annoying hype man on the planet doing his darndest to ruin it (during the bridge in particular) – but it is C4 nonetheless. You don't come out of battle with this newly 19-year-old singer unscathed; in fact, you barely survive her domination at all. At first listen the initial assault is in the acoustic guitar intro that is something like a honeytrap. It's enticing, sexy, and it stops you in the centre of the blast zone with enough of a flirtation, that you don't see the aerial plane dropping until it's too late. The next thing to hit you is a horn section that reminds you of something that you can't quite put your finger on…Right away. By the time the Missy Elliott's SupaDupaFly comes to mind, you've joined the winning side (because you're too scared not to). Somewhere along the way, you're imagining yourself standing in a desert jeep, speeding through sand clouds in a very Tina Turner in a Mad Max-like battle ensemble, ready to take anybody out the game for even looking at you funny. It's entirely possible that last part may just have been me, but you get the idea – song, battlecry, soldiers in battle, that sort of thing... Don't question it, just go with the visual – trust me.

Download your free copy of 'FWU' from KehlaniMusic on Soundcloud

It may not seem like it initially, but 'FWU’ is nothing, if not a fight song. It masquerades with a sweet serenity, courtesy of harmonious vocals so smooth and liquid buttery, that it clogs your arteries (and every orifice), in a disturbingly pleasant way (you should probably see a Healthcare Specialist about that last part. Especially if you like it). Anywhoo... those horns add a regal touch to this 'Ride or Die' anthem. A Queen is pledging her never-ending devotion to her King, if he promises her the same in return. Only this royal couple rule the streets, and the neighbourhood is their court. Because Kehlani's natural sound is so soothing, you overlook the fact that her words are as menacing as her effect on your diet. The 'tell it like it is' lyrics are ballsy, and make it clear that this Chica is no trifle to be messed with – the sweetness turns a tad sour, when she lets you know that she'll defend you to her last breath, but she'll also end you, and take yours if you don't tow the line...

And that my mealbreak friends, is why you need to cop yourself ‘FWU’ without a moment’s hesitation – because it’s for the good of your health.

In addition to this ESPspotlight Review, Kehlani also wins the monthly prize of an electronic press kit (EPK) for professional use. Don't forget to enter next month, my darling buds, when you'll get four chances to win £90 worth of graphic cover art with custom front and back covers for your next musical release - don’t miss out!

I need a snack now…until the next!

ES ;)

#MUSICMONDAY's First FLASHING LIGHTS WINNER: 'Where Have You Been', 85th Decibel

Our very first winner to go into the monthly prize draw, are the Rock / Rap Production duo that is 85th Decibel.

Emeka and Warrs are 85th Decibel

Musician and Producer Mx, and Rapper Warrs caught my attention with their entry, for the perfect mix of haunting and tortured pain. The Rock undercurrent is hypnotising, as Warrs practically bleeds through his bars. His anger and frustration with the girlfriend who just does not understand, the determination and struggle to succeed in a man so young, and so bitter, that you can practically taste it.

Whilst the loneliness of a one-sided relationship can drive you to the edge of distraction; the exasperation with a partner who just does not support, nor understand your dreams, can be equally stressful.

The building blocks of Mx’s production make the overall offering that much more interesting; especially when you realise that he has played every instrument you hear, himself.

These two extremely talented young men are the first recipients of the Flashing Lights competition, and won themselves this track Review. It’s going to be a tough job, picking a track that grabbed my attention as much as this one, in next week’s competition. As you can see, the bar has been set very high, my musical friends – I certainly hope that you can rise to the occasion…

Connect with the gents of 85DB directly via their Social Media Catalogue:

Bandcamp / Facebook / Soundcloud / Twitter / YouTube

Want to win yourself a seat in the ESPspotlight? Well it's really easy to get involved. All you have to do is visit this page for all entry information, including Terms & Conditions, and get your track to my Soundcloud Dropbox (links and emails will not be accepted), by 5PM Friday evening. Et Voila, you're in the running!

Until the next...
ES ;)

Welcome to the ALL NEW #MusicMonday feature on 'The ESintheP Blog'!

Welcome to the ALL NEW

#MusicMonday feature on 'The ESintheP Blog'!

There's been a teensy bit of a revamp all-round if you've noticed, but for those who are new, let me introduce you...

If ever you question what else this blog portal has to offer, then there is a handy shop slideshow on your right. For more details, simply visit the ESP website. Check ESP Social Media for the latest news, or better still, connect directly, so that you get all the breaking alerts first! See what's most popular on the blog, by checking the everchanging Top 5 stories. Or purchase the mainstream releases that you see, or read about here - like Iggy Azalea's new album review, coming later today, with a twist - from Amazon in the bottom-right.

Oh yes, and do be sure to share your thoughts on the new blog banner - do we like, or no? You tell me in the Comments Box below.

Now to the meat of the meal. #MusicMonday will consist of any, or all of the following features in any given week:

Headlines are the top News Stories of the past week. They may not always match with the mainstream - in fact I sincerely hope they don't - but you will learn interesting tidbits that you're not as likely to pick up anywhere else!

Since this IS a Spotlight forum, Flashing Lights is dedicated to the winner of our weekly music review...

Lost In Music returns, with a look at past releases, that left an indelible print on musical history.

Sound of the Week is the tune that won't get out of my head, and imprints on my brain. Love it or Hate it, Old, New, or Just Released - it could be anything!

Talk on Corners is the talking point where I shine a light on certain topics currently ongoing, or that seem to be slipping under the radar, and ask YOU to join in the talk with me, over the course of the week.

And finally, Wave Runner is a look at the biggest songs in the media right now (and occasional, legitimate examinations of why on Earth they're there...)

Now as an EXTRA-special Launch Day Treat, I'm giving you one of EVERYTHING throughout the course of the day - but don't think I'll be spoiling you like this every week! With the exception of Flashing Lights, and Headlines, only a selection of features will run every Monday. Sidenote: Naming features after song titles certainly does help create a theme, let me tell you...and we all know how I love a theme!

It's time to get ready for your first offering of the day. It's only right to open big on a celebratory day...ENJOY (and please do let me know what you enjoy [or not] the most)!!!

ES ;)