From Sofar to Brooklyn Bowl: A Movement Built Together

Our hearts are still full after stepping onto the legendary Brooklyn Bowl stage this past Friday. It’s hard to put into words what it felt like to be welcomed by a room full of energy, open arms, and brand-new fans discovering Jazztronica for the first time.

Our journey this year has been unexpected and beautiful: from our stepping off point as a performance duo during an intimate Sofar Sounds show… to the bustle of an Irish Pub where Penn Station commuters paused to listen… and now this recent milestone performing to an unexpected crowd at the legendary stage of Brooklyn Bowl. That arc—from intimate to iconic—has been powered by every single one of you who listens, shares, and spreads the word about Jazztronica.

Why It Matters

What we're building isn't built for the algorithm—it's built for the true seekers of progressive vibes. The ones who dig in the crates and assert themselves with an air of collective individualism; the celebrators of diversity of people and sound.

What started as me producing and Sachcoo painting with visuals has now become a living, breathing band. We’re no longer just putting out tracks—we’re building moments, creating spaces for people to feel and connect. It’s all about following curiosity, taking leaps, and letting the art grow in ways we never imagined.

Being greeted with open arms—by new faces, by old friends, by everyone in between—reminded me what this music is really about:

• Shared energy

• Moments of connection

• The generative power of curiosity and authenticity

And here’s the honest truth: we aren’t finished ascending. We don’t know exactly where the next stop will be before November 6—but we know it’s fueled by this collective momentum. And that’s already everything.

What’s Happening

• Album Release Show: November 6 at The Sultan Room, Bushwick. Tickets are on sale now; early bird perks until October 6.

• The Album: Prelude to Descent is on its way—emergent, immersive, and fueled by our shared curiosity. Pre-save it now on Spotify or Apple Music. Audiobook edition drops in Spring 2026.

We couldn’t be more grateful to be creating, performing, and exploring with you. Here’s to what’s next—together.

Peace,

Samir (FKAjazz)

Spotify vs. Apple Music: An Artistic Perspective on a Healthier Relationship with Music as Art

In our hyper-digital age, the way we consume music has undergone a seismic shift. Streaming services reign supreme, offering us a universe of sound at our fingertips. But as artists and ardent listeners, it begs the question: which of these giants, Spotify or Apple Music, fosters a healthier relationship with music as the profound art form it truly is? Let's dive into an artistic perspective, exploring beyond just the algorithm and into the very ethos of these platforms.

The Allure of Discovery vs. The Embrace of Curation:

Spotify often champions its algorithmic prowess, a seemingly endless rabbit hole of "you might like" suggestions. While this can lead to exciting discoveries, it can also feel like an endless scroll similar to social media, potentially devaluing the intentionality behind an artist's carefully crafted album or body of work. The focus can inadvertently shift towards fleeting trends and individual tracks, rather than the cohesive artistic statement.

Apple Music, while also employing algorithms, leans more heavily into human curation. Their expertly crafted playlists and radio stations offer a narrative, a context that can deepen our appreciation for the music. This approach often feels more akin to the traditional experience of a DJ or a knowledgeable friend introducing you to music they genuinely love. It encourages a more thoughtful engagement, allowing us to understand the music within a broader artistic landscape.

The Visual Narrative: Beyond the Sound:

As artists, we understand the power of visual presentation. Album artwork, music videos, and behind-the-scenes glimpses contribute significantly to the overall artistic experience. While Spotify offers unique features like Canvases and Clips that enable artists to embed short videos into the listening experience, Apple Music generally provides a more comprehensive visual platform. For select artists, Apple Music offers the ability to showcase full music videos directly within the platform. Though Spotify's visual features are innovative, Apple Music's approach feels more complete, especially considering that music videos are readily available on YouTube, where artists can directly share their content. From a pure listening perspective, Apple Music's visual integration creates a more immersive experience that better complements the music itself.

The Artist's Voice and the Value Proposition:

The economic realities for artists on these platforms are a constant point of discussion. While both have their complexities, the perception within the artistic community often leans towards Apple Music offering slightly better royalty rates. While the difference might seem marginal to the listener, it can have a significant impact on an artist's ability to sustain their craft and continue creating meaningful work. A platform that values artists financially, even incrementally more, indirectly fosters a healthier ecosystem for the art form itself.

Furthermore, Apple Music has made strides in integrating artist-focused content, such as in-depth interviews and behind-the-scenes features, providing a deeper connection between the creator and the listener. This human element reinforces the idea that music is not just a commodity but a deeply personal expression.

Yellow - what’s paid to the artist, Orange - mechanical royalties, Blue - performance royalties

Cultivating Intentional Listening:

Ultimately, a healthy relationship with music as an art form hinges on intentional listening. Both platforms offer tools to facilitate this, such as the ability to create personal playlists and save favorite albums. However, the inherent design and emphasis of each platform can subtly influence our listening habits. Apple Music's curated approach and visual focus can encourage a more deliberate and engaged listening experience, moving beyond passive consumption.

The Verdict (An Artistic Perspective):

While both Spotify and Apple Music offer immense value and access to a vast library of music, from an artistic perspective that prioritizes intentional engagement, visual storytelling, and fair artist compensation, Apple Music arguably fosters a slightly healthier relationship with music as an art form. Its emphasis on curation, richer visual integration, and a perceived greater value for artists contribute to an environment that encourages deeper appreciation and a more holistic understanding of music.

However, the "best" platform remains subjective and depends on individual priorities. As listeners, we have the power to cultivate a mindful approach regardless of our chosen service. Let's strive to move beyond endless scrolling, actively engage with albums as complete works, explore the visual narratives, and support the artists whose creations enrich our lives.

What are your thoughts? Which platform do you feel fosters a healthier relationship with music as art? Are you taking even further steps to download music or buy vinyl records? I'd love to read your perspectives and experiences. Join the conversation and share your music journey with us! And see you November 6th at our album release party.

Peace✌🏽

A Closer Look: Prelude to Descent

With my latest single set to drop this Friday, let’s take a closer look at the song, “Prelude to Descent”, the title track of the upcoming album. But before I forget, a quick reminder to pre-save this new Jazztronica track so you can be the first to add it to your personal playlist of favorite jams.

Why I Wrote This Song

"Prelude to Descent" began in 2016 as the new political landscape emerged, one fraught with misinformation and division. At that time, a decade younger and with an understanding of our nation's history—yet harboring the misguided belief that we were progressing in the right direction—this composition felt like a dystopian fantasy. Now, nearly ten years later, as conditions continue to deteriorate, what once seemed fantastical has materialized in ways I never imagined. In 2025, we stand at critical crossroads in modern history. As we navigate what appears to be a downward spiral over the next few years, some raise their voices in protest, others remain paralyzed by complacency and denial, while some actually celebrate as the foundations of stability crumble beneath us. I don't presume to know where you stand on this spectrum, and my role as an artist isn't to sway your beliefs. My only hope with this song—and the project as a whole—is that it prompts you to think critically about our current times and consider how they affect not just you individually, but our collective community.

Perfect Timing

The timing of this project is not by accident. Part of my artistic process is creating freely with the ebb and flow of "whatever comes out, comes out." It's a kind of "throw paint at the walls and see what emerges" approach that through 20+ years of practicing and living the philosophy of Buddhism, I've learned to trust deeply. Although I started "Prelude to Descent" almost 10 years ago alongside "Intrepid Sun" and "Eclipse the Moon" from this upcoming album—as well as the title track of my 2024 album "Fearless"—I also began the project "Stereotype Threat," a jazz, hip-hop, and funk-influenced album that sparked collaborations with some of my closest friends to date. Noah MacNeil, Justin Swiney, JSWISS, Julian Litwack, Marcus Machado, and Lez Lemon were all collaborators on "Stereotype Threat," guiding me in a musical direction that led to further collaborations with BD3, Natalie Oliveri, Chandanie, Leo Coltrane, and more. Between 2016-2023, I created an abundance of music with these incredible humans in mind—some that found its way into the world and some that may forever remain in the vault.

However, in 2022, my artistic focus pivoted back to electronic music. With the release of "Of Space & Earth," I began to subconsciously drift from the sound of "Stereotype Threat" and "Beautifully Awkward," reconnecting with my passion for electronic composition. As NFTs emerged—an innovative approach to digital ownership that I still believe can revolutionize the music industry—I released my first NFT collection. This venture led to another NFT project in 2023 with my current collaborator, Sachcoo. The fascinating twist in this journey is that this NFT project unearthed most of the songs I'm releasing now—compositions I'd either forgotten entirely or had shelved for so long they required complete reimagining.

"Prelude to Descent" was one of those forgotten compositions. The original production had become outdated, while my skills as both a saxophonist and producer had grown more sophisticated. Yet the essence and intent remained loud and clear. Even more striking, the song's relevance to our current times became increasingly palpable. With a cognitively declining current President and a twice-impeached former President announcing a second candidacy—the earliest such announcement in history for obvious reasons (at least to me)—it seemed like the perfect storm to use this song and its parent project to illustrate the precarious times we find ourselves in.

Is it All Just Doom & Gloom?

Not at all! "Prelude to Descent" is a cautionary tale and an audible illustration of how far we can decline without even knowing it. There's a word that has been floating around a lot these days: normalization. The current administration is doing everything it can to normalize the chaos, to make you think everything will be fine—business as usual—while the world is actually declining at the hands of a few tech billionaires. This itself is cause for concern and explains why people might retreat into denialism. However, one of the things I hope to achieve with this new project is to highlight "the strength of one individual" and "the power of coming together." That's what this song is about. That's what this album is about. And that's what I hope to convey in the fantastical audiobook I'm currently producing.

So, again (if you’ve made it this far) I hope you’ll pre-save my new, up-coming song “Prelude to Descent” and enjoy it on Friday for the first time. Tickets for our album release party at The Sultan Room will be available soon so look forward to that. And until then, enjoy what there is to enjoy, suffer what there is to suffer and regard both as facts of life. Peace!

How to Maintain & Sustain a Steady Creative Flow

(8 min read)

Many of you may be familiar with my method of releasing a new track every 4–6 weeks, which I've been doing consistently since 2020. Like clockwork, with 3 million streams and 43 releases later, I haven't missed a beat (except during holiday seasons). Fellow creatives often ask me how I've maintained this steady flow of music for the past 5 years and why I chose the 4–6 week release cycle. So before diving into how I maintain this schedule, let me explain the why.

Why: The Truth Behind Spotify's Algorithm and Release Strategy

I could tell you it was an artistic choice, but that wouldn't be entirely true. We're living in an age where Spotify reigns supreme, and optimizing releases based on Spotify metrics has become paramount. In today's world of constant information overload, attention has become one of our rarest and most valuable commodities.

According to research by Spotify, the average user's attention span for new music discoveries lasts around 30 seconds before they decide to skip or save. This insight led me to develop a release strategy that keeps my music consistently present in listeners' minds without overwhelming them. By maintaining a steady 4-6 week cycle, I can ensure each release gets proper attention while building anticipation for what's next. At least in theory.

Moreover, algorithmic playlists like Release Radar and Spotify's editorial playlists typically refresh on a 4-6 week cycle. Following this natural rhythm has proven effective - my releases regularly appear on various playlists, ranging from niche community collections to larger curated lists within my genre. This consistent presence helps maintain steady engagement with existing fans while reaching new audiences on a regular basis. The key is to balance quantity with quality, ensuring each release meets high production standards while maintaining the momentum of regular releases.

Most importantly, as mentioned before, it's about ensuring each song I release gets the attention it deserves. I put my heart into every track and prefer giving each one its proper moment to shine rather than releasing an album or compilation that might get overlooked. This approach gives each song room to thrive while preventing you, my amazing friends and fans, from feeling overwhelmed with too much content at once.

2024 Spotify Wrapped. Note: from 2020-2024 my yearly streams grew from 95K to 587K. That’s an over 500% increase in 4 years!

It's also a brilliant way to chronicle a body of work throughout the year using what's called a "waterfall release." Before today's music climate, artists typically released one to three singles over 4-6 months, followed by a full album (LP) 3-6 months later. Many high-profile artists and labels still follow this model. However, for us humble mid-level artists trying to break through the noise, this approach no longer works effectively—I can attest to this, as it's exactly what I was doing up until 2019. With that method, only a few songs would stand out while the rest would end up in the skip pile.

So fellow music creators, instead of releasing an album all at once, consider "water-falling" it. Don't think of this as merely surrendering to current trends—instead, think of it as giving your audience options. For example, my 2025 album "Prelude to Descent," scheduled for November 2025, is already available for purchase on my website. Die-hard fans who don't want to wait can experience the full album before streaming-only listeners. These early supporters get to be the first to discover what others won't hear for a year or sometimes longer. This strategy rewards your most loyal fans who understand the value of downloads, while maintaining a strong presence on streaming platforms.

Alright, enough nerding-out on Spotify. Let's get to the how! And hey—congratulations to everyone who's made it this far! If you've skipped ahead, no worries at all. We've all got to work with the time we have.

THE HOW: 3 PARTS AND A BONUS

Now for the juicy part—something that will translate whether you're a music creator, any other type of creator, or simply curious to understand the creative mind. I'll break this down into three parts. These broad strokes will establish a constant creative flow, opening the floodgates for everything you hope to achieve in your artistic output.

1. Create a Sacred Space

Oh how I remember the days when my 2-bedroom apartment felt spacious and the second room was my dedicated studio space. Now my studio space is confined to the corner of my bedroom. I'm sure I'm not the only one. Maybe your situation is the same, maybe worse. But either way, we all face challenges in creating that "sacred space." However, it's not impossible—it just takes some creativity to create that space for yourself. My dedicated space might be small, but I've made it the perfect environment for my creative mind to flow. And it serves the most important purpose: everything I need to make music is there.

That peace of mind brings a certain comfort, knowing that whenever inspiration strikes or I need to work, my creative sanctuary is right there waiting. It doesn't matter if it's just a corner desk or a full room - what matters is that it's YOUR space, ready for those moments when creativity calls.

This dedicated area becomes a trigger for your creative mindset. Just like athletes who get in the zone when they step onto the field or court, having a designated creative space helps signal to your brain that it's time to work. Even if you can only carve out a tiny nook in your home, make it yours and protect its purpose.

But it doesn't end there. The other aspect of your newfound sacred space is creating your sacred time. I only became a full-time creative in 2021. Before that, I almost always had a second or even third job. Yet I consistently dedicated time for making music—whether it was a two-hour session after a 10-hour shift at Uniqlo or a 4-hour session after editing audiobooks all day at my desk. No matter what, I made time to create. And that time was sacred. Even now as a full-time creative, I can't spend Monday through Friday, 9-5 making music. These days, 50-80% of my job involves creating social media content, communicating with potential clients for booking, scheduling releases, writing newsletters (aye!), and the list goes on. Nevertheless, my sacred time for making music remains a permanent fixture on my schedule. Though it may shift depending on what's happening throughout the week, I always make time.

2. Don’t Wait for Inspiration, Create It

One of the most profound lessons I learned came from my former teacher, Terence Blanchard—the renowned trumpet player and film composer known for scoring Spike Lee films including Malcolm X (1992), Clockers (1995), 25th Hour(2002), Inside Man (2006), and Da 5 Bloods (2020). His words still resonate with me today: "Don't wait for inspiration, create it!" Man, that hits deep even now.

For many creatives, routine feels stifling. Breaking down what it means to "create inspiration" might seem counterintuitive at first. However, there's an important distinction between routine and habit.

A routine is a strict schedule or set of rules you follow, while habits are natural behaviors that develop over time. By cultivating positive creative habits rather than forcing strict routines, you can maintain your artistic freedom while still producing consistently. These habits might include setting aside regular time for creative work, keeping your workspace organized, or starting each session with a specific warm-up.

For me, I have just one essential habit—starting. Yep! That's it! Every time I sit at my studio chair to make another song, it's not because I'm feeling particularly inspired. In fact, most of the time I have no idea what I'm going to produce. But my approach when creating a new track is simple: I open Ableton Live (the production software I use), load in a virtual synth or fire up my Jupiter-XM (hardware synthesizer), and search for a sound that grabs my attention and sparks an idea. Every time, without fail, it leads to something. It may not feel like much at first, but an idea is like a seed—if you nurture it, it will grow. It's all about taking the first step. Remember, "don't wait for inspiration, create it!" Which leads me to the third and final step.

3. Bring your Ideas to the Finish Line

I believe there's no such thing as a bad idea. Let me explain. Over the years, I've realized something profound: looking back at all my decisions, both personal and work-related, I wouldn't change anything—well, maybe my student loan management! However, I've watched enough time travel movies to know that changing even the slightest thing doesn't lead to better. It just leads to different.

The creative choices we make can and will lead to something great. We just have to nurture whatever seeds we plant until they break through. There's no such thing as a bad idea—only unfinished ones.

I can't count how many times I've second-guessed an idea, only to work through it and create something I grew to love. Sure, ideas often come to us in their raw form. Some ideas develop at lightning speed, while others might sit on the shelf for a day or even years. But when the time is right, that idea will flourish. Trust in the process. Here's a perfect example: my upcoming album "Prelude to Descent" was largely composed in 2016—with just a few tracks produced last year to complete the album. Most of the tracks I'm releasing this year began their journey nine years ago.

As a creative, it's worth remembering that nothing goes to waste if you truly love the process of creation. The key is to keep pushing forward, to keep creating, even when you're unsure of where an idea might lead. Some of my most well-received tracks started as simple experiments that I almost abandoned. Remember that creativity isn't just about the final product—it's about the journey of discovery and growth that happens along the way.

Bonus Part: BATCH YOUR WORK & TAKE BREAKS

One of the most important aspects of maintaining and sustaining your creative flow comes from the discipline of taking regular breaks. To sustain your creative output and prevent burnout, it's essential to batch your work and integrate regular breaks into your routine. Instead of pushing through for extended periods, discipline yourself to schedule dedicated times for rest. Whether it's a short pause each hour, a longer break daily, a full day off monthly or months off yearly, these deliberate interruptions allow your mind and body to recharge, reflect, and experience new stimuli. This strategic rhythm of intense focus followed by restorative breaks is key to maintaining a consistent and vibrant creative flow.

Since 2020, I've consistently released a new song or album every 4-6 weeks—that's five years of continuous output. Most people might think I'm constantly making music, but the reality is different. I've streamlined my creative process to focus the bulk of music creation into about six concentrated months each year.

The remaining time is dedicated to other crucial aspects of my career, like creating content, handling administrative tasks for upcoming releases, or practicing for performances. I work in cycles, dedicating certain months to music creation and others to the business side. There's no rigid formula; it's all about recognizing the ebb and flow of creativity. If the creative juices aren't flowing, I don't force it. Instead, I see that as a cue to shift my focus to other career areas or simply rest and recharge. This approach is my most valuable tool for avoiding overthinking and forcing creativity. Above all, I can't emphasize enough the profound importance of rest.

With this perspective, whether you're a seasoned creator or just starting out, make it your habit to create consistently. The journey of bringing ideas to life is what keeps the creative spirit alive. Remember: your creative path is uniquely yours, and every step forward counts.

So here's to the journey ahead—may your creative endeavors be bold, your ideas abundant, and your sacred space a sanctuary where inspiration flows freely. Now go create!

Defending Cultural Freedom in Modern Times: The Foundation of Society

Live at Art Basel Miami (M2 Club), Dec 2024 - photo by Maiseu Creative

(5 min read)

In an era where algorithmic content and AI-generated art increasingly dominate our cultural landscape, we must confront a sobering reality: a society without authentic human artistic expression is one stripped of its fundamental humanity. Beyond the basic necessities of food, water, and shelter, art stands as humanity's most powerful vehicle for expressing our deepest emotions and thoughts in ways that transcend both time and space.

Current Challenges: The Kennedy Center Case

Recent events at the Kennedy Center serve as a stark warning of what happens when artistic freedom faces political control. The institution, once a beacon of cultural diplomacy and artistic excellence hosting over 2,200 events annually with 2 million visitors, now faces a concerning transformation under new leadership that threatens to curate content based on political alignment rather than artistic merit.

The implications extend far beyond the realm of entertainment. When artistic expression becomes subject to political whims, we risk losing not just cultural events, but our very ability to engage in meaningful dialogue through art. This is particularly evident in the recent changes at the Kennedy Center, where long-standing traditions of artistic independence are being challenged, leading to the departure of key figures like Ben Folds and raising questions about the future of prestigious programs like the Kennedy Center Honors.

Meanwhile, the rise of hustle culture and the constant pressure to maximize productivity has led many to lead lives devoid of deep cultural experiences. AI-generated content threatens to standardize creative expression, replacing human authenticity with algorithmic efficiency. Artists are our cultural compass, reminding us to live fully, to seek meaning beyond the superficial, and to embrace the richness of human experience.

Historical Perspective

History shows us a clear pattern: when societies value and support the arts, they thrive in many ways. Music, in particular, has served as a universal language, bridging cultural divides and fostering understanding between different communities. From ancient Greece to Renaissance Italy, strong artistic traditions have consistently led to advances in science, philosophy, and social cohesion.

On the flip side, when societies limit or ignore the arts, they often suffer. Places that restrict artistic expression usually see less creativity, fewer new ideas, and a general decline in their culture and way of thinking. This decline affects not just the arts, but the whole community's ability to grow and innovate.

Live at Art Basel Miami (M2 Club), Dec 2024 - photo by Maiseu Creative

Why Arts Matter

The arts represent not merely optional luxuries but essential cornerstones that form the foundation of human advancement and cultural evolution. They serve as the beating heart of society's creative spirit and intellectual growth. Music, in particular, emerges as a powerful testament to our shared humanity - a truly universal language that effortlessly transcends geographical borders, cultural boundaries, and societal differences, connecting people across time and space in ways that few other mediums can achieve. Throughout history, artistic expression has served as the primary vehicle through which societies have explored their deepest questions, challenged conventional wisdom, and imagined new possibilities. When we allow artistic expression to become restricted, automated, or suppressed, we risk far more than just the loss of entertainment - we sacrifice our collective ability to engage in meaningful cultural dialogue, diminish our capacity for emotional connection, and gradually lose the vital threads that weave together our shared human narrative. This creative suppression affects not just the artistic community, but reverberates through every aspect of society, impacting our ability to innovate, empathize, and evolve as a species.

Call to Action

As these concerning developments unfold, we must remember that defending artistic freedom goes beyond protecting cultural institutions. Above all, supporting independent artists is crucial—especially now, as we witness growing challenges to artistic freedom within major institutions. These artists remind us of our humanity, encouraging us to live more fully and find deeper meaning in our existence.

My recent projects, "Fearless" and "Prelude to Descent," demonstrate how independent artists can create innovative, boundary-pushing work without constraints. These projects exemplify how artists can successfully blend different mediums and tell meaningful stories while maintaining their artistic integrity—free from the pressure to conform to standardization.

Supporting independent artists is particularly vital now as we see increasing attempts to standardize and automate creative expression. By supporting independent artists, you can help preserve the authenticity of human creativity and ensure that art continues to serve its crucial role in advancing society and fostering meaningful dialogue.

Together, we must remain vigilant in supporting and protecting artistic freedom, understanding that the arts are not just a reflection of our society but a crucial tool for its advancement, enlightenment, and our shared human connection.

Live at Art Basel Miami (M2 Club), Dec 2024 - photo by Maiseu Creative

The Silent Crisis: How Streaming is Reshaping Music's Soul

Screenshot from film by Joshua Reed

FKAjazz · The Silent Crisis: How Streaming is Reshaping Music's Soul

(8 min read)

You may have noticed my recent instagram post discussing the concerning trend of musical homogenization in today's industry. This observation sparked an enlightening dialogue with a friend about the current state of music creation and distribution. Given the significance of this topic and its implications for artists and listeners alike, I believe it warrants a thorough exploration in this newsletter installment. While my analysis draws from rigorous scientific research and empirical studies (for those who value such evidence), I'll also weave in my personal insights and experiences as a working musician navigating these challenges. This combination of data-driven observations and firsthand experience should provide a comprehensive view of our rapidly evolving musical landscape.

The Research

A comprehensive and illuminating study conducted by researchers at the Medical University of Vienna, meticulously analyzing an extensive dataset of over 500,000 albums spanning 15 distinct musical genres and 374 detailed subgenres, unveiled a compelling and concerning truth about the modern music industry: as songs climb the ladder of popularity, they tend to conform to increasingly standardized patterns and structures. The research team employed sophisticated analytical methods to evaluate musical complexity, specifically examining variations in sound quality, tonal color and acoustical elements across different compositions. Their findings demonstrated a clear and consistent correlation between commercial success and a reduction in instrumental sophistication, suggesting that mainstream appeal often comes at the cost of musical innovation and complexity.

View fullsize

Chart from the Medical University of Vienna

Several factors contribute to this trend. Let's explore the key reasons behind this shift in musical complexity and what it means for artists and listeners alike.

The Streaming Paradox

In our data-driven music landscape, we're witnessing a seismic shift that's reshaping the very foundation of music creation and distribution. The "Spotify effect" has ushered in an era where artificial intelligence and complex algorithms increasingly dictate musical success. These algorithms analyze massive datasets of listening patterns, skip rates, and engagement metrics to determine which songs get promoted to wider audiences. As a result, artists and producers are now facing an unprecedented pressure to create music that satisfies these algorithmic preferences rather than following their artistic instincts.

This shift goes far beyond simple distribution mechanics. Musicians are increasingly tailoring their songwriting process to match specific data points: optimal song lengths (typically 2-3 minutes), immediate hooks within the first 30 seconds, and simplified song structures that minimize skip rates. Even music production techniques are being modified to ensure songs perform well on streaming platforms, with producers adjusting elements like intro lengths, chorus placement, and sound dynamics to match what algorithms favor.

This algorithmic influence isn't just changing how music reaches listeners—it's fundamentally transforming the creative process itself, potentially stifling innovation and artistic expression in favor of formulaic success. We're seeing the emergence of a new paradigm where data analytics, rather than artistic inspiration, increasingly shapes the sound of contemporary music.

By the Numbers

• Studies show that popular musical styles consistently demonstrate lower instrumental complexity

• As styles attract more artists, their instrumental variety typically increases—but their commercial success often decreases

• Genres maintaining their complexity (experimental, jazz, folk rock) often see decreased commercial success

Breaking Free from the Algorithm

In today's music industry, we're witnessing a concerning shift as more artists abandon their authentic creative voices in favor of following algorithmic trends that promise streaming success. This prioritization of metrics over artistic expression represents a fundamental transformation in how music is created and valued. The algorithm-driven approach encourages formulaic compositions designed to maximize play counts and engagement statistics, often at the expense of genuine artistic innovation and musical depth. Yet, there remains a powerful countermovement of artists who choose to preserve their creative integrity despite the commercial pressures. For these independent voices, authentic artistic expression continues to resonate deeply with audiences who seek something beyond algorithm-optimized tracks. The current transformation affecting the music industry extends far beyond simple format adjustments—it represents a crucial choice between preserving artistic authenticity and surrendering to data-driven formulas. In the face of these industry-wide changes, OMGjazz maintains an unwavering commitment to creating innovative, boundary-pushing music that stays true to our artistic principles. Through our dedication to crafting unique, high-caliber compositions rather than chasing streaming metrics, we're actively working to maintain and expand a vital space for genuine creative expression within today's increasingly digitized musical landscape.

What's Next?

The future of music stands at a pivotal moment of transformation. In the wake of the 2020 pandemic, we've witnessed a profound shift in how we value community and connection - a silver lining that reminded us how coming together, even virtually, contributes to our mental and physical well-being. This realization has sparked a revolution in how audiences engage with music. Direct-to-fan platforms have evolved from alternative options to viable, thriving ecosystems where dedicated listeners actively support their favorite artists, creating sustainable careers outside traditional industry structures.

What's particularly encouraging is the growing awareness among music enthusiasts about the limitations of algorithm-driven listening experiences. More and more fans are taking control of their musical journey, consciously moving beyond the constraints of streaming platforms as their sole source of music discovery. They're making music listening an active, intentional part of their lives rather than a passive, algorithm-directed experience. This shift represents a fundamental change in how audiences engage with music - from passive consumers to active participants in artists' creative journeys.

Screenshot from film by Joshua Reed

With emerging technologies continuing to democratize music distribution and fan engagement, we're seeing the power dynamics of the industry shift dramatically in favor of genuine artistic expression and authentic community building. The future of music lies not in algorithmic recommendations but in the hands of passionate fans who understand the value of direct support and meaningful musical connections.

This isn't to say streaming platforms like Apple Music or Spotify are inherently bad. The expansiveness of music was slowly dwindling in the late '90s due to piracy—a huge issue that platforms like iTunes, and later Apple Music, helped resolve. What's crucial, though, is how we use these platforms. Make an active effort to go beyond them to artists' shows and official websites, where you can take a deeper dive into their work and find meaningful ways to support the music that soundtracks our lives.

I know, it may seem overwhelming to some. We're all busy trying to thrive in spaces where survival itself feels challenging. But here's the most important takeaway: the more you invest in the arts, the more you receive in return.Unlike the necessities we maintain in our lives—money, food, shelter—music gives us a space to imagine, to love, and to create lasting memories we can revisit through song.

To conclude, I invite you to join me on November 6, 2025, for our album release party at The Sultan Room in Brooklyn, New York. Early bird tickets will go on sale soon. Space is limited so sale the date a look out for when tickets go on sale. As a special bonus, one lucky newsletter member from our email list will win a Limited Edition Vinyl of "Prelude to Descent." Each ticket purchase will count as one raffle entry—buy 4 tickets, get 4 entries. We'll announce the winner at the show and present them with their own signed copy of our new album. More details coming soon.

We're thrilled to see you there! Until then, keep enjoying all the amazing music coming out this year and more from me at Noteworthy. Peace!

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PRELUDE TO DESCENT: AN OMGJAZZ ALBUM RELEASE PARTY

"Prelude to Descent" by FKAjazz is now available at omgjazz.com and will be rolling out across streaming platforms throughout the year. Join us for our album release party on Thursday, November 6th at Xanadu's Sultan Room. Save the date—tickets go on sale August 6th. We're planning an unforgettable night featuring performances by OMGjazz (FKAjazz × Sachcoo), a special guest DJ, and more.

We're thrilled to be hosting our release party at The Sultan Room—a unique live music venue and nightclub located in Bushwick, Brooklyn. The venue is renowned for its intimate atmosphere and state-of-the-art sound and lighting system, making it the perfect setting for our album debut.

Early-bird tickets go on sale August 6th at 12 PM EST. These discounted tickets include exclusive gifts for the first 50 purchasers and priority entry at the door. More details to come.

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Source materail: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0115255

Celebrating One Year of "Fearless": A Groundbreaking Musical JOURNEY

(4 min read)

We're thrilled to celebrate the first anniversary of our innovative release, "Fearless: An OMGjazz Ninja Saga"! This groundbreaking project has redefined the boundaries of musical storytelling since its debut release party on April 25th, 2024.

A Milestone in Creative Innovation

Breaking new ground in multimedia artistry, the release of "Fearless: An OMGjazz Ninja Saga" represented an innovative fusion of creative mediums, emerging as a groundbreaking dual album/audiobook release that pushed the boundaries of traditional musical experiences. This pioneering project featured a meticulously crafted special edition physical book, enhanced with cutting-edge augmented reality capabilities that bring the story to life in unprecedented ways. The audiobook marked our first venture into audio storytelling, beautifully narrated by our good friend JSWISS.

The release party was a testament to this creative vision, featuring an unforgettable and emotionally charged performance where I, (FKAjazz), took the stage to showcase the musical elements of the project. The evening was elevated further by the remarkable contributions of special guest BD3, whose presence added another layer of artistic depth to the celebration. Throughout the venue, attendees also found themselves completely immersed in the mesmerizing world of Sachcoo's artwork, featuring an extensive collection of both digital presentations and physical installations that perfectly complemented the musical journey. Adding another dimension to this multifaceted evening, we were fortunate to include an engaging and insightful interview segment hosted by the talented Chelsea Johnson at Kobalt Music Group, which provided valuable context and deeper understanding of the project's creative process.

Photo by Noah MacNeil

Streaming Success

Thanks to your incredible support, "Fearless" has achieved remarkable success, becoming our most streamed album to date with an impressive milestone of over 680,000 plays on Spotify alone. This achievement reflects not just numbers, but the genuine connection our music has made with audiences worldwide. Among the album's standout tracks, "Dreaded Truth" has resonated particularly strongly with listeners, garnering more than 200,000 streams and becoming a fan favorite. Additionally, both "We Don't Need No Roads" and "Envy" have proven to be compelling pieces in their own right, each crossing the significant threshold of 100,000 streams and demonstrating the album's consistent ability to engage and move our audience.

Why It Matters

The success of "Fearless" represents more than just streaming numbers—it demonstrates a shifting paradigm in how artists can connect with their audience. By combining music, storytelling, and interactive technology, we've created a new model for artistic expression that transcends traditional album releases. This approach shows that audiences are hungry for deeper, more immersive experiences that engage them on multiple levels.

In an era where music consumption often feels fragmented and passive, "Fearless" proves that artists can create cohesive, multi-dimensional experiences that invite active participation from their audience. The project's success validates our belief that by pushing creative boundaries and exploring new formats, we can enhance how people experience and connect with music while preserving the artistic integrity of the work.

Photo by Noah MacNeil

Looking Ahead: "Prelude to Descent"

Our next venture, "Prelude to Descent - TV Box Saga, Part 1," releasing throughout 2025, promises to be our most impactful work yet. Daydreaming, Aayan's Lucid Dream, and Eclipse the Moon have already hit streaming platforms, with Intrepid Sun set to drop on May 16, 2025. This new episodic project takes a deeper dive into the jazztronica sound, featuring one of our most layered storylines that deeply connects with our current era. Set as a cautionary tale, "Prelude to Descent" unfolds across a multifaceted landscape, exploring themes of technology, human connection, and societal change through an intricate blend of electronic and acoustic elements.

You can get an advance copy of the complete album exclusively at our website or pre-save it on Spotify. The audiobook production begins Fall 2025, with a planned release in Spring 2026. Make sure to save the date for our release party on November 6, 2025—tickets will be available soon.

Here at OMGjazz, our dedication to pushing creative boundaries remains unwavering as we continue delivering fresh, innovative experiences that seamlessly weave together music, art, and storytelling into immersive journeys. Through our distinctive approach of combining these artistic elements, we strive to create meaningful connections and unique experiences that resonate with our audience in new and exciting ways. We're profoundly grateful for the incredible support you've shown us throughout this creative journey, and we're truly excited to embark on this next chapter together, bringing you even more groundbreaking artistic experiences that challenge conventional boundaries and inspire new possibilities.

The Rise of Jazztronica: Breaking New Ground in Music

Photo by Joshua Reed

(5 min read)

In an era where genre boundaries continue to blur, Jazztronica emerges as a revolutionary fusion that bridges the gap between traditional jazz improvisation and electronic music production. Jazztronica represents more than just a combination of sounds—it's a movement that challenges conventional musical paradigms and creates new possibilities for artistic expression.

Backstory: How I Arrived

I first saw the name "Jazztronica" on a Spotify playlist where I was featured around 2021 or 2022. Though it might sound uninspired, discovering this term was an extraordinary revelation. This was my home—everything I had been working to create from the very beginning, without fully realizing it. While genre has never defined me as an artist, and I've explored countless musical territories, seeing the word jazztronica sparked something deep within me. It felt like finally finding where I belonged.

As FKAjazz, I started by exploring diverse musical genres. My first two albums "Stereotype Threat" (2017) and "Beautifully Awkward" (2019) focused on Black American Music—jazz, hip-hop, funk, and R&B. Before this, I spent eight years in electronic production with Pax Humana, my duo with Brian Lindgren. This period helped me explore new sounds beyond my background as a jazz musician composing acoustic music.

Pax Humana, Live at Slake (NYC) 2012

"Lineage" (2020) merged my jazz roots with my newfound experience in electronic and modern Black American music production. "Of Space & Earth" (2022) reflected my evolution as a DJ, which began in 2012 but truly took off when I started working with Caché Life in 2017. This naturally shifted my creative direction, leading me away from hip-hop and R&B production while maintaining my deep connection to these cultural touchstones.

Then came Jazztronica with "Fearless: An OMGjazz Ninja Saga." Yes, "Soft Serve: Saxually Active Vol.2" followed, but that was more of an archival release—a period marking the end of an era. Interestingly, both "Fearless" and my upcoming 2025 album "Prelude to Descent" originated at a crossroads in 2016. Back then, I chose to pursue "Stereotype Threat," naturally gravitating toward a community of like-minded artists such as Marcus Machado, JSWISS, BD3, and Unkle Nephew. Meanwhile, tracks like "Prelude to Descent," "Intrepid Sun" (originally "Keep this Door Open"), and "Fearless" simmered on the back burner.

Now, with "Fearless: An OMGjazz Ninja Saga" nearly a year behind me and "Prelude to Descent - TV Box Saga, Part 1" on the horizon, it feels right to fully embrace my identity as a Jazztronica artist.

What is Jazztronica?

Jazztronica is the seamless integration of jazz's improvisational spirit with electronic music's innovative production techniques. It combines the spontaneity, harmonic and rhythmic complexities of jazz with the textural richness and synthesized landscape of electronic music. Through this fusion, we create soundscapes that honor jazz's legacy while embracing modern technology's endless possibilities.

The Art of Genre Pioneering

Being a trailblazer in an underground genre presents unique challenges and responsibilities. As pioneers of Jazztronica, we navigate uncharted territory, taking calculated risks with unconventional musical combinations. With the hopes of surpassing the inevitable gatekeepers, grabbing the attention of the masses may be futile. This journey involves more than just creating music—it's about starting small and building and nurturing a vibrant community around these new sonic territories. Speaking for myself, I remain committed to authenticity while pushing the boundaries of what's possible in this emerging genre, hoping to foster a vibrant culture along the way.

OMGjazz Multimedia Release Party 2024, Photo by Noah MacNeil

Why Underground Matters

Underground genres are the laboratories where music evolves. They provide spaces for artists to experiment freely, uninhibited by commercial pressures or mainstream expectations. This creative freedom allows for genuine innovation and the development of authentic artistic voices.

As Jazztronica continues to gain recognition, our mission remains clear: to push the boundaries of what's possible when tradition meets innovation, creating music that speaks to both the past, present and future of sound.

Stay tuned as we continue to explore and expand the horizons of this exciting genre. The journey of Jazztronica is just beginning, and we're honored to be at the forefront of this musical revolution.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about Jazztronica and my musical journey. Listen to our latest single "Eclipse the Moon" now on Spotify or Bandcamp and join us in shaping the future of music. Your support means everything to us as we continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in contemporary jazz and electronic fusion.