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Backstage with Josh Levi

A new version of the holiday classic "Let It Snow" is out now

Interview and Photos by Jordan Edwards

This past week, Josh Levi released a cover of "Let It Snow," the Christmas classic made famous by Boyz II Men. The track is faithful to the original while adding his own modern touch and updated production.

The single caps a busy year for Levi, which has also included a "scratched up" version of his DISC TWO EP as well as the singles "EGO" and "Birthday Dance."

Levi first gained attention for his run as Darius in the beloved Friday Night Lights TV series. While he's done some acting, he's stuck mostly to music over the last few years. Last year, Levi combined both. Pixar fans might recognize his voice as 4*TOWN member Aaron Z. from the animated feature Turning Red.

Before a recent show at The Sun Rose in West Hollywood, we met up with Levi for some photos and a conversation about his music.

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Chad Brady/Courtesy of the Artist

Interview by Jordan Edwards

In 2018, Neptune teamed up with Post Malone for the single "You." It put him on the musical map, and laid the path for future releases. This led to a series of singles including "Fallen Angel," "Strawberry Lemonade" and "Wyoming." Like his mentor Posty, Neptune shifts between heartfelt pop and melodic hip-hop. He prefers hazy, light night beats mixed with passionate vocals--a sound that's allowed him to stand out and earn fans like will.i.am.

With his latest single "Monochrome," the 18-year-old moves forward with a powerful pop ballad. The music video, featuring stunning cinematography, has proved to be popular with fans, racking up nearly half a million views in two weeks.

We recently talked to Neptune about the making of "Monochrome," working with Post Malone, and the evolution of his music.

Tell me about your latest single “Monochrome.” What was the production and songwriting process?
The production for "Monochrome" went fast; we were given the beat, but it was just lacking vocals and lyrics. By far, the writing part took the longest. It was a challenge to find the right tone without being too overbearing. Ultimately, I'm proud of what came of the time spent.

In terms of production, you gravitate towards darker sounds. What influenced that?
A big chunk of my music was made at a point in time where I was moody, so a lot of that emotion influenced the finished track and lyrics, since I usually go off whatever I’m feeling that day.

How involved are you in your visuals?
I play a significant role. While I might not always come up with the initial concept, I actively collaborate with the team to see what works best with the given track.

What did you learn from Post Malone while working on “You?”
Working with Post Malone and other artists taught me that collaborations can be spur of the moment and fast-paced. Sometimes, everything just naturally falls into place.

What do you remember about that video shoot?
For one of the shots, I had to sing the chorus while in this big group of people and just getting the worst stage fright. I felt so nervous being the center of attention. To be honest, sometimes I still get that anxiety of looking like a dummy, but I’ve gotten a lot more comfortable performing, having been in so many shoots now.

Neptune - Monochrome (Official Music Video)

When did you first start making music? Do you remember the first song you wrote?
I started singing and recording music around 8 and started making original songs at 10. The first song I actually wrote was “Outcast." While I had help from my team, it was my first song where I was the one putting words down.

Vocally, who do you look up to?
There are many talented artists, but Post Malone and The Weeknd stand out for their expansive ranges. Sometimes I try to sing Posty's songs to see if I’ve vocally gotten close to his level but every drop, he always expands his range further and further. Bruno Mars is in there somewhere too; the list just goes on and on.

If you could be a musician in a different era, which one would you choose?
I'd choose the '80s or '90s. The music was so cool and to this day holds up. Plus, I can rock a mullet.

What have you been listening to lately?
My music library is super cluttered. It can range from recent albums to game soundtracks all the way to a jazz fusion album from the '80s.

For more from Neptune, follow him on Instagram and TikTok.

In 2010, Matthew Handley and Andrew Stanley came together over their love for multi-cultural music and sounds, combined it with their disc jockey prowess, and delivered us perhaps one of the most iconic debut tracks of all time: "We No Speak Americano." It was an instantaneous smash hit, selling over 5 million copies and topping the charts worldwide.

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Each year around December, excitement grows for reasons other than the holiday season. Yes, we all come together to celebrate the release of our Spotify Wrapped- and what a glorious, joyous time it is for many. Plus, it's a great opportunity to expose which type of person you are: an Apple Music user or a Spotify user.

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Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To

The holidays have arrived...

It's a week before Thanksgiving, which means we have been thrust into the holiday season whether we were ready or not. While you're gearing up to see your family and friends for your obligatory annual catch-up conversations, we need new music now more than ever. Because there are travels to be completed, and soothing is needed.

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Interview and Photos by Jordan Edwards

On Friday, Lulu Simon released her new single "Stay." It's her first new music in over a year, following the EP Muscle Memory.

To support the release, Simon has been on tour with fellow indie pop singer Emei, whom we recently interviewed. The remaining dates are sold out, but hopefully Simon will schedule more shows in the new year.

Before she hit the road, we talked to her about the new track and the music that shaped her as an artist.

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