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indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2021 (vol 1)

It’s a new year – welcome 2021.  Here’s hoping that we will see a return to live music and much success for indie artists worldwide.

Speaking of live music, we just learned of the passing of long-time indie music supporter Lina La Rosa to ALS.  We are dedicating this week’s column to her memory.  RIP, Lina.

After waking up to a blanket of white on New Year’s Day, we wanted to kick off the new year right with some great new singles and music videos.  Here’s what we found this week:

NEW SINGLES

Our first single is from an artist whom we’ve known since the 90’s.  She is a survivor of COVID, and probably our favorite redhead on the planet.  We’re talking about none other than Nina Storey, and her first song of 2021 will definitely get you on the dance floor.  Check out her latest groove and get ready to “Fly.”

Fly · Nina Storey (spotify.com)

Next up is a beautiful holiday song from another friend from our time living in San Diego.  She has since moved to Nashville where she has become a popular host of a music show, an actress and a force of nature.  Check out “Somethin’ ‘Bout the Snow” from the original lady of blue, Alyssa Jacey.

Somethin’ Bout the Snow · Alyssa Jacey (spotify.com)

Our third song pretty much sums up the feelings of quite a few people concerning 2020.  Meiko is another long-time friend who says what many of us feel, “This Year can Kiss my Ass.”

This Year Can Kiss My Ass · Meiko (spotify.com)

Gabe Dixon is a past winner of the LA Music Critic Awards, and has become the natural follow-up to such amazing “piano men” as Billy Joel, Elton John and Phil Vassar.  We simply love his holiday song and echo its sentiments, so let’s bring in the “New Year Just With You.”

Spotify – New Year Just with You

We close out this week’s singles with the latest from the multi-talented actress, songwriter, crafter and co-creator of the “Don’t Call us Tori” showcase and podcast, LA’s own Shannon Hurley.  In answer to her question, “Am I in This Love Alone,” we respond with a resounding, “Hell No!”

Am I in This Love Alone · Shannon Hurley (spotify.com)

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

We kick things off with a video from the amazing duo Dauzat St. Marie.  We think this powerful ballad sets the perfect message for 2021 – “In it Together.”

ROCKET is another group with powerful female vocals.  They have just released a lyric video for their empowering song, “Giants,” and we think you should take their lyrics to heart.

Our third video is from a new artist we have recently discovered courtesy of Tarsier Records.  Enjoy this beautiful and soulful visual for “Best Wishes” by Markus.

Christmas may be over, but the spirit of the season lives on in this stirring video cover of one of our all-time favorite classics, “What Child is This.”  Check out Dan Hegarty and metal maven VK Lynne in this stunning visual shot by Sean McHugh.

We close out the first week of the year with this remarkable lyric video that brings back so many memories.  Lend your ear to the amazing songwriting of Michael Shynes and meet us at “Sundown.”

 

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indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2020 (vol 19)

We hope you all had a wonderful Christmas.  We had a relaxing time with family, capped off with watching Wonder Woman 1984 for free on HBO MAX.  Now that the holiday is over, let’s cap off this year with our final Monday Mashup of 2020.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single is from WAMI and features Julia Shuren.  It is a smooth R&B tune that provides the perfect chill factor for this hectic holiday season.  Enjoy “Life is Good.”

Life Is Good · WAMI, Julia Shuren (spotify.com)

Next up is the groovy surf sound of Very Cool on their second single, “Hot Rod Canoe.”  We love it!

Hot Rod Canoe · Very Cool (spotify.com)

Our third single this week is courtesy of The New Bardots, who leave us with the interesting proposal that “If Santa Claus Were President,” things might be a little different.  It’s worth your time to listen to their rationale.

If Santa Claus were President · The New Bardots (spotify.com)

Amy Steele has a dynamic voice and turns the pop hit “Our House” into a dreamy acoustic holiday extravaganza.  We can’t wait to see what comes next for this amazing artist.

Our House · Amy Steele (spotify.com)

Our final single to be featured in 2020 is a lovely live version of the classic “River” that could easily become  your favorite holiday song.  Thank you to Tawny Ellis for her creativeness is making this one the perfect song with which to end the year.

River (Live) · Tawny Ellis (spotify.com)

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

We kick off the music video portion of our Mashup with the bluesy sound of ELEKTROHORSE featuring the powerful gospel vocals of Francesca Capasso.  Check out the song “Walk on Water,” and its stunning cinematography, but beware, these visuals will stay with you long after the video ends.

Next up is a dynamic lyric video from the hardest rocking guitarist in LA, the alluring Ali Handal.  She brings new life to The Beatles’ classic tune, “Come Together.”  This one’s a real keeper.

Welcome back to one of our favorite Scottish delicacies, the bodacious babe herself, Baby Taylah.  Her latest is also one of her best.  Check out “Good Enough.”

From Scotland we head to LA via Moscow for one of LA’s premier soft rock indie artists, the magnificent Marina V.  Here is her lyric video for Magical Christmas.  Let her voice and the words fill your heart this holiday season.

We close out 2020 with one of the most inspirational songs we have ever heard.  Many thanks to Eric Bellinger, Inigo Pascual, Sam Concepcion, Moophs, Zee Avi and Vince Nantes for reminding us that we need to “Rise (Together).”

 

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indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2020 (vol 18)

Like you, we can’t wait for 2020 to be in our rearview mirror.  Thankfully, change is coming in 2021.  Our lead blogger finally pulled the plug and filed for Social Security.  That means his 50+ hour work weeks will be reduced to 30, and he will have three days off each week to get back to doing what he loves best – writing about indie music.  Watch for additional news in the coming weeks.

As we start Christmas week, we couldn’t think of a better time to dedicate our column to some great new Christmas singles and videos.  Let’s enjoy the holiday season and get 2021 off to a great start.

NEW SINGLES

First up is a new tune from a familiar voice who we have not heard from in quite a while.  Please enjoy “Christmas with my Baby” from  the mega-talented Lucy Schwartz.

Christmas With My Baby · Lucy Schwartz (spotify.com)

Next up is a future Americana Christmas classic from Eric Brace and the Last Train Home.  This one will truly pull at your heart strings.  Check out “By the Lights on the Tree.”

By the Lights on the Tree · Eric Brace & Last Train Home (spotify.com)

Our third single comes from LA’s own iconic BINX, who reminds us that Christmas isn’t just a day in December with her instant classic “Christmas in Summer.”

Christmas In Summer · BINX (spotify.com)

Check out the powerful and soulful voice of Cameron DuBois on her amazing song, “Merry Christmas, Wherever you Are.”  This one will definitely put you in the mood and fill your heart with the holiday spirit.

Merry Christmas, Wherever You Are · Cameron DuBois, Bama Sound (spotify.com)

Our final song comes from Johnny & the Mongrels with their bluesy rendition of “Christmas Angels.”  We like their sound.

Christmas Angels · Johnny & the Mongrels (spotify.com)

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

We start off our Christmas videos with the sound of Oklahoma’s own The Imaginaries.  Their video for “Hometown Christmas” was filmed in Chickasha, Oklahoma, where the husband and wife duo also served as Grand Marshals of the annual Christmas Parade.  Let’s get this party started the right way.

Although we don’t typically share videos by major artists, we are making an exception in the case of Meghan Trainor‘s new video “I Believe in Santa.”  In case you don’t know, Meghan is a product of the amazing Durango Songwriters Expo, where indie artists get to connect with industry professionals.  In addition, Santa is played by none other than David Haverty of Hollywood Fringe Festival fame.  Enjoy this little slice of heaven.

It wouldn’t be Christmas without at least one amazing cover of a Christmas carol, and this year our vote goes to Constanza Herrero‘s “Silent Night.”  May the peace of this song fill your heart.

Speaking of great covers, who doesn’t love Eartha Kitt‘s classic song, “Santa Baby.”  American Blonde, formerly Southern Halo, bring a sweet downhome feel to this classic tune, and we can’t wait to see what the sisters have in store for us in 2021.

We close out our special Christmas edition with a brilliant cover of one of our favorite Christmas songs, “Hard Candy Christmas.”  We just found out about this artist, Alexandra Kay, and we expect to hear great things from her in the future.  Enjoy this one and we’ll see you again soon.

SPECIAL GIFT:  Here’s the original song from the movie version of The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas – we can never get tired of this song.  Thanks to Fandango Movie Clips for this awesome memory.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2020 (vol 17)

Wow, what a week!  Oklahoma got hit with a huge ice storm last week that knocked out power for a lot of people, and made work almost unbearable.  We worked nearly 60 hours and our sales were up 150%, causing us to run out of just about everything, including our patience.  So glad things are beginning to return to normal, and we have a little time this morning to post our long overdue article.  Check out these great new singles and music videos.

NEW SINGLES

First up this morning is the latest blues masterpiece from LA Music Critic Award winner Brigitte Purdy.  She’s on the “Memphis Hotline” and we’re sure glad we got to participate.  Purdy only gets hotter with each new song.  This one is a true keeper!

From the blues we switch to R&B, and the incredible sound of up and coming artist Christine Nguyen.  She compiles a lot in her song “Finding Happiness,” and we’re ready to join her in her journey.  This one is perfect for today’s election.

Speaking of the election, Wildwood Franklin has a political winner with his latest Americana/blues classic, “American Trump Card.”  It’s a reminder to all of us to get out and vote if we want to change the direction our country is heading.

Who doesn’t like an 80’s throwback?  Katie Wood goes back and resurrects that iconic sound in her latest tune, “Where Have You Been?”  We hope she’s around for a long time.

Our final single this week comes from rocker Jacqueline Tucci, who invites us to come “Home.”  We love the classic sound of this track and think we have not heard the last from this young Toronto artist.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

With election day upon us, the amazing LA singer/songwriter queen Kris Angelis reminds us we need to find “My Quiet,” and not let the anxieties and cares of this world overcome us.  We wholeheartedly agree.

Next up is another LA-based group of incredible musicians, Lucy & La Mer.  This time around they bring us the upbeat and positive song, “Better Than I was Before.”  Let’s take their advice and be our best.

Nikki O’Neill is a rising Americana artist who just relocated from LA to Chicago.  In her latest video, she reminds us that the “World is Waiting” for the power of love to rise up.  Let’s lead the charge.

Time for a little fun.  Here is a cool punk rock video from New Jersey band Boy Blue which features the vocals of Jaret Reddick of Bowling for Soup.   They are looking for fun with the “Ghost of Saturday Night,” and we bet they will find what they’re looking for.

Our final video this week comes from LA female-fronted band Kitten, who remind us of the days when “Angelina” was breaking into the movie business.  This one is sure to get your toes tapping and your feet on the dance floor.  Have a great week.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup

Monday mashup 2020 (vol 16)

We hope you enjoyed our review of The Imaginaries‘ live concert and are ready for some more great new singles and videos.  Here are this week’s selections.

NEW SINGLES

First up is the latest from one of our absolute favorite indie musicians, Nina Storey.  She’s been busy during the pandemic and recently released her third single.  Once again, her heavenly voice and brilliant songwriting have delivered an instant masterpiece.  Check out “The Bones.”

Continuing the theme of arising out of the ashes of this pandemic is the latest from Michael McFarland, an upbeat inspirational pop tune called “The New Contagion.”  We love the energy and the hopeful lyrics.  Let us know what you think.

As we recently celebrated World Mental Health Day, our next song is truly relevant.  Toronto artist X. Ari presents her latest single, “Lifting Up,” from her new EP which is all about mental health issues.  Listen to the words as the energizing beat gets your spirit up.

Our fourth single comes from the smooth blues/jazz/rock sound of Goldflēce, who is planning to “Tie One On.”  This one is perfect for chilling down after a long day of work.  David Goldflies is one half of The Allman Goldflies Band, and we cannot get enough of this solo effort.

We close out our singles this week with the latest sweet treat from LA’s iconic BINX.  This time around, she tells us “I’m in Love With a Rapper,” and is joined by Mata Atoms.  We are in love with her and her amazing body of work.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up this week is the latest from the reigning queen of the LGBTQ musical movement in Los Angeles, the incomparable Abby Posner.  Check out the debut of Frupert, the amazing bass-playing character in Posner’s video “Where I Wanna Be.”

This next video was released a couple of months ago, but we felt it was perfect for today.  We love the sweet harmonies of sister act Southern Halo, and we stand by the sentiments expressed in this lyric video for their masterpiece, “Don’t Let Another Day Go By.”

Our third video is a rocking lyric video from LA’s infamous rocksters Rocket.  They’re “Losing Breath” over the state of our nation, and encourage you to vote.

Next up is an Americana tune that is sure to propel LA’s sweet Kris Angelis into the national limelight.  It is a timely song called “Ghost (I’m Alive and Breathing),” and makes us giddy with the possibilities.  Angelis has paid her dues and her music is ripe for worldwide acceptance.  We truly dig this tune.

We close out this week with a sweet song about that annual event in the life of each person, their “Birthday.”  We can never get enough of the music of Kensington Moore, and we can relate to the sentiments of this song.  Until the next one, “raise a glass.”

 

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indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2020 (vol 15)

We made it to the last day of summer and we’ve got some hot tunes to share with you today before the cold days of fall and winter begin.

NEW SINGLES

First up this week is the latest from another sterling act represented by Ue3 Promotions.  This time it’s a sister act featuring twins Jana and Jacy Ayers aka Lavendine.  They have a sound with perfect harmonies like another great sister act Karmina, with the driving beat of Evanescence.  We love it and can’t wait to hear what’s coming next.  This song takes Christian music to a new level and deserves serious airplay on stations like KLOVE.  Check out the newly remixed “Rapture.”

We switch things up with the latest acoustic Americana of Rob Williams, who brings us his song, “Nameless.”  We love the down home sound of his music, and think he has a bright future with his modern day Dylan-esque sound.

Continuing on in the Americana vein is the latest from Blue Élan Records‘ sweethearts Mustangs of the West, featuring the stirring vocals of Suzanna  Spring and the soulful mournings of Aubrey Richmond‘s violin.  Dig deep and enjoy this perfect cover of Chris Cornell’s “I am the Highway.”

Moving on to a more R&B sound, here’s “Love Again” from the uber talented Deanna Devore.  This song soars to new heights and gives us all hope that love will prevail.

Our final single this week is a portrait of perfection with a sound that reminds us of The Beatles early work.  The artist is JJ Draper and the song is “Part of a Piece of This.”  We think he’s got something – what say you?

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is a loving tribute on the 50th anniversary of Jimi Hendrix‘s death by blues legend Diana Rein.  Check out her amazing cover of “Voodoo Child.”

Speaking of great musicians who have passed on, the latest from BLAZAR has a definite Prince feel and is a powerful lyric video.  Check out “Precious.”

Our third video is a light-hearted tribute to those “Sky Dancers” we see everywhere.  Join the incredibly talented and uber comedic Scout Durwood on her latest fun video.  If this one doesn’t bring a smile to your face, then you’re taking life far too seriously.

Next up is the latest from Brooke Moriber, and we think it’s her best one yet.  She encourages us to not give up with “Better Days,” and we could not be more hopeful.

We close out this edition of Monday Mashup with the new video from up and coming Americana artist Nikki O’Neill.   She says that “You’re the Only One That Gets Me,” but we think everyone will want to get more from this amazing performer.

 

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indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2020 (vol 14)

Welcome back for another edition of Monday Mashup.  It’s been a busy week and we are super excited to share these new singles and music videos with you, so let’s get started.

NEW SINGLES

First up is the latest original song from Blue Élan Records artist Car Astor.  This one is a beautiful acoustic song called “Buzzing Bees.”  Check it out.

We move from the subtle sweetness of the previous single to a more “adult” song with the release of the latest from the incredible Gina Sicilia.  Check out the groove of the bluesy “Married Man.”

Our third single is a solid gold country tune from Anna Krantz, and we simply love it.  This one definitely belongs on the radio.  Check out “We Could be High.”

Keeping in the country vein we present the latest from the other famous “Carey,” Eileen, who reminds us to “Keep Your Love to Yourself” when it comes to trusting your heart.  Listen to these profound words and enjoy her melodic voice.

Our final single this week is pure pop brilliance by the future superstar duo of KTJ & Carly.  Check out “Enable Me.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is from the Oklahoma power duo of Shane Henry and his wife Maggie McClure aka The Imaginaries.  This one is beautifully shot and is an instant classic.  Check out “Walking on a Wire.”

Next up is a video that we somehow missed.  It features the amazing voice of Rachel Lorin with her smoking hot song, “Kerosene.”  This one belongs on the radio and should receive placement offers from television and radio.

Our third video is a beautiful skating video featuring the amazing Chelsee Foster, and features her own song “Break the Wheel” from her band CH3LS (featuring OneFifteen).  This one is a definite keeper.

Our next video features an 80’s vibe with LA’s RnB artist Raven Artson.  Check out “Won’t Forget Just.”

Our final video this week features the jazzy blues sound of Johnny & the Mongrels, former Colorado residents who relocated to New Orleans.  We love their sound and especially love their latest, “Creole Skies.”  Enjoy this one until we meet again.

 

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indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2020 (vol 13)

Had to work 10 hours yesterday but I’m off this morning.  Happy to share some great new songs with you and encourage you to continue to support indie musicians.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week is from the forthcoming album Born Free by Soul Asylum on Blue Élan Records.  We have always loved this band and their newest is easily becoming one of our favorites.  Check out this acoustic version of “If I Told You.”

Next up is another artist from Blue Élan, the legendary Rusty Young of Poco, who is joined by Suzanna Spring of Mustangs of the West (still another Blue Élan artist) on this amazing Americana track, “Waiting on You.”  It doesn’t get much better than this.

Next up is another Blue Élan artist, the up and coming star named Car Astor.  Her latest is a stirring cover of the classic Nilsson song, “Without You.”  This one is going to be legendary.

Our fourth single comes from an artist that goes by the name Hey Bertha.  Her debut single is called “Your Name,” and we believe that she could easily become a household name.  Check out this amazing song.

Our final single this week is from one of the founding members of The Romantics, Mike Skill.  He wrote their mega hit, “What I Like About You.”  His solo work is just as impressive as he teaches us about the “’67 Riot.”  Rock on!

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up this week is another hilarious video from the Blue Élan Records’ Queen of Comedy, Scout Durwood.  She gives us a fun little ditty with “Sad Ukelele.”  Enjoy this break from the seriousness of COVID-19.

Next up is a live performance video of “Lily White” from the upcoming album The Peppermint Sessions by Red Wanting Blue, our final Blue Élan artist today.

Our third music video is the latest lyric video from Life.Church Worship of their new song, “When I Say Jesus.”  Let the words of the song heal all your broken parts.

We were proud to feature Dauzat St. Marie last week, and they’re back with a lyric video this week, “Falling Again.”  The vocals remind us of Jennifer Nettles, and we love that Heather is back at full  vocal force.  Enjoy this one.

We close out this week with the latest from Emily Breeze.  She gives thoughtful advice to the younger generation in her heart-felt although slightly wacky rock and roll tribute song, “Hey Kidz.”

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indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2020 (vol 12)

Welcome to another week.  Had a medical procedure this morning, but ready to share these great new singles and music videos with you.  Hope you enjoy them.  Please let us know.

NEW SINGLES

First up this week is the modern rock sound of Janelle Baretto and her band ROCKET.  This one is a timely song about the present situation and is damn good.  Listen to the lyrics and rock on to “Losing Breath.”

We move from rock to country for our second single, which is being released to radio shortly.  We fell in love with Casey Ahern the first time we saw her perform at The Mint, and she’s only gotten better.  Check out “Didn’t Even get a Goodbye.”  We think this one should launch her into the stratosphere.

Moving on to Americana, we present Oklahoma duo The Imaginaries.  They have some great stuff coming on Friday, but in the meantime, here’s their latest single, “Revival.”

Our fourth single has a distinctive 80s vibe to this brilliant offering from London’s Sleepwoka.  Check out the Depeche Mode dream quality of “How I was Wrong.”

Our final single this week is reminiscent of Meghan Trainor and introduces us to the amazing sound of Aubrey Toone.  Where has this lady been hiding?  We simply love her and can’t believe she’s been around LA and we never heard her before.  Enjoy her latest single, “Outrun.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is the welcome return of Dauzat St. Marie with an amazing song that has been picked up for the 75th edition of NOW That’s Music.  We think you will love their interpretation of their new single, “Common Ground.”  We definitely do!

Last week we shared the new single from Cara Frew, “Waiting for Love.”  This week we get to share the music video, which is super hot.  Enjoy this South African princess and don’t make her wait any longer.

Our friends Single by Sunday are back with another amazing tune that deserves serious airplay.  Check out the video for “Secret.”

We have always loved the music of Paul Edelman and Jangling Sparrows, and their latest, “Joshua Chamberlain,” is no different.  This one will rock your Americana, and we couldn’t be more proud of it.  We think you’ll love it too.

We close out this week’s music videos with an artist that brings back the joy and danceability of disco with her latest song “Beat of Life.”  We can’t believe we missed this artist before, but really love her sound.  Check out Aline Mayne.

 

Categories
indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2020 (vol 11)

We’re back!  After a flurry of Pizza Hut RGM (that’s restaurant general manager) resignations, I have had to work 70+ hours for each of the past three weeks.  In fact, today is only my second day off since this began.  So much great music has been released recently that we hardly know where to start.  We hope you are as excited by these new tunes as we are in sharing them.

NEW SINGLES

Our first new single is from Alecia Nugent, with a country gem that will definitely pull at your heart strings.  Check out “They Don’t Make ’em Like my Daddy Anymore.”

Next up is a timely song from Blue Élan Records resident country songstress, Chelsea Williams.  Listen to the words and take action – “No Justice, No Peace.”

Single number three is a call to action to those who haven’t learned that “Actions speak louder then words.”  It’s been a long time since Ali Handal released new music, and based on her latest, the wait was worth it.  Listen to “Shut Your Mouth and Do Something,” and take it to heart.

We have a special YouTube single for you today, with the release of the latest from South Africa’s own Cara Frew.  She’s “Waiting for Love,” and we don’t want her to wait any longer.

Next up is a song that combines the resources of the uber-talented Shooter Jennings with his long-time friend and bassist, Ted Russell Kamp.  “Home Sweet Hollywood” is from Kamp’s latest offering, From the Den, and shows that Kamp is not just a supporting musician by a front man on his own.  Enjoy this groovy tune.

Our final single this week is the perfect marriage of blues and rock, and feels like BB King and Jimi Hendrix had a love child.  Enjoy the rocking “Touch the Sky,” from the James Pace Band.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

We kick off our music videos this week with the latest lyric video from Life.Church Worship, from their forthcoming EP, Jesus is Near, which will be released on August 14.  Here’s “Never Will.”

Back in July 1983, Christian music was changed with the birth of STRYPER, the first Christian metal band.  The band has announced the release of their new album, Even the Devil Believes, on September 4.  In the meantime, they have released a lyric video for the timely “Make Love Great Again.”  We are so  happy to have them back.

Our next lyric video is from BLAZAR, aka Jerad Finck, who is joined by DAXSEN on “Tomorrow.”  It is no wonder this latest collaboration is headed to the top of the charts.

One of our favorite Latin artists, Vanessa Zamora, has a sure hit with the R&B-tinged stylings of “Ayer.”  This one will help you get your groove on.

We close out this edition of Monday Mashup with the latest masterpiece from Ben Fuller.  “Find my Faith” will strengthen your own resolve to make it through these trying days.