THE STAY UP “MAD SQUEEZE” REPORT – JANUARY 2025
MAD LEMON LISTENS: CELEBRATING INDEPENDENT SOUND
It would be easy for me to hop on here, make a playlist, and lean into Spotify algorithms to push the top artists they’re promoting. No shade—many of them are great in their own right. But given the current state of independent music and the growing gap between artists benefiting from streaming and those getting lost in the shuffle, I want to dive into something different. Something indie. Maybe even someone you haven’t had on your radar yet.
Here are a few tracks I’m excited to share with you on this month’s Mad Lemon Listens, brought to you by CRL CRRLL & Mad Lemon. In support of independent artists, I’ll also be including links to help you move away from major streaming companies and connect directly with these creators. If you’re ready to explore, let’s get into it.
JORDAN WARD – “FAM JAM”
| Official Website | Notable Interview
Jordan Ward’s Fam Jam is a groove-heavy, feel-good track with a message that deserves more love this year. There’s a warmth in his voice and an infectious energy in the production that feels like an instant classic. If you haven’t heard him yet, now’s the time.
RIC WILSON – “AMERICA RUNS ON DISCO”
Listen on Bandcamp | Official Website | Notable Interview
Ric Wilson is no stranger to making socially conscious music you can dance to, and America Runs On Disco is a testament to his ability to blend political awareness with infectious grooves. Dropping this track in December, he’s already setting the tone for a year of movement and action—both on the dance floor and in the community.
JUNGLE – “KEEP ME SATISFIED”
Listen on Bandcamp | Official Website | Notable Interview
Jungle has been in the spotlight for a while, and with their latest single, Keep Me Satisfied, they continue to evolve their soulful, hypnotic sound. The real highlight? The mind-blowing choreography by Shay Latukulan and Lars Bohte that elevates their music videos to a cinematic experience. These guys are proving that funk, soul, and visual storytelling belong together.
LEON THOMAS – “MUTT”
iTunes Download | Official Website | Notable Interview
Leon Thomas’ Mutt is raw, soulful, and deeply personal. The track taps into the vulnerability of identity and the fusion of genres that make Thomas a standout. If you’re a fan of storytelling through sound, this one’s for you.
BUNGALOW COLLECT – “Tell Me Where To Go”
Youtube | Official Website | VIP List
There’s something about Tell Me Where To Go that just hits different. The track is an electrifying nod to the nu-funk movement that has me excited about music this year. Bungalow Collect is carving out space for risk-taking and innovation, and I can’t wait to see more artists follow their lead.
Be sure to follow them and sign up for their VIP access to some exclusive parties and events they are hosting in LA. Also, if you're a fan of wine nights or coffee, follow Palm Grove Social on Instagram, as they are connected to an amazing community and host some fantastic community events there.
STAY CONNECTED FOR MORE
Music should be an experience—not just background noise. That’s why Mad Lemon Listens is here to put a spotlight on artists pushing boundaries and creating with passion.
Make sure you’re tapped into Stay Up Saturdays and Mad Squeeze for future updates, live DJ events, and more community-driven initiatives that put the power back in the hands of artists.
Until next time, keep listening with intention.
