The Story Behind "Something Blue (Acoustic)

By SARIKA

Honestly I made the acoustic version because when I released the original version, I posted a TikTok comparing a voice memo of me playing the song to the final production, and one single person commented that they preferred the original stripped down, sadder version of the song. It’s not that I’m obsessed with making everyone happy (okay, maybe a little bit), but I agreed with that person that when I play the song solo it has a more raw, emotional feel to it. I thought people might like to hear a version like that. It’s funny because it’s been a full year now and the person who left that TikTok comment doesn’t even follow me so they have no idea they inspired a whole new version. But shoutout to them!

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I want to thank SARIKA for taking the time to share this story with us. 

Be sure to follow her on Instagram, and Spotify to be sure you won't miss anything (including her two most recent singles)! You'll also want to check out every other time SARIKA has appeared here on Section 36 Music!

Thanks again SARIKA!

Find Love at Fenway – Behind the Scenes of My New Music Video

 By Whitney Doucet

There’s no place like Fenway Park—especially when you’re a lifelong Red Sox fan like me. So when it came time to film the music video for my latest single Find Love, I knew there was only one place that truly made sense: right in the heart of Section 36 territory, in one of the most beautiful cities in the world—Boston, MA.

The idea actually hit me while reflecting on one of the lyrics in my song:“The sun shines bright over your city / Boston sure looks good on you.”And I thought to myself—we HAVE to shoot that at Fenway Park.

My husband was behind the camera (and even made a hilarious cameo), my best friend Elaina came to support and made a quick appearance in the video, and my husband’s cousin Chris stepped in as the “love interest”—a role he handled like a total pro.

We kicked things off on Lansdowne Street, singing with the Green Monster looming behind me like the legend it is. The energy there is unmatched—it's the heartbeat of Fenway, with people zipping by in Red Sox hats, and a sea of blue, red, marathon yellow, and Monster green apparel glowing in the summer sun. We even filmed some fun skipping shots of me and Chris making our way down Lansdowne, laughing and having a fun moment.

My husband got us Green Monster tickets, and we filmed from what has to be the best view in the house. I made sure to stay respectful of the fans around us—because believe me, as a Sox fan, I get it! I even took breaks between takes just to soak in the game. The crack of the bat, the smooth voice of the announcer, the roar of the crowd—the sound of a Boston summer dream.

We explored every corner we could—filming in the stairwells behind the Monster, by the famous Fenway bricks, and of course, grabbing the ultimate ballpark treat. There’s one moment in the video where I’m about to dive into a classic vanilla soft serve with rainbow sprinkles served in a Sox baseball cap… and suddenly my husband walks by and steals the first bite! My reaction is total shock followed by laughter—and yep, it’s 100% real, I guess I should have gotten him an ice cream too! 

Filming Find Love at Fenway felt like giving baseball fans a mini tour of all the nooks and crannies that make the park so magical. Whether you’ve been a hundred times or have always dreamed of going, I hope this video lets you see just how special Fenway is.

I’ll be back at Fenway on July 6th to sing the National Anthem for the Savannah Bananas game! I can’t wait! 

I’m so proud of this video, and I hope it inspires you to find love—in the music, in the ballpark, and in all the unexpected places life takes you.

Watch Find Love on Youtube: Fenway Video

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This story has been posted simultaneously here and on the Section 36 flagship blog.

Bay Area singer-songwriter Maddy Michaels announces the release of her second single, "When Can I Say (i'm finally okay)," on June 27, 2025

San Jose, CA: The second single by singer Maddy Michaels, "When Can I Say (i'm finally okay)," came out to streaming platforms on June 27, 2025.

Cover Art by: JMDesign

Written during a time of career uncertainty after graduating amid the pandemic, Maddy poured her emotions into this vulnerable indie pop single. The song explores feelings of rejection and the realization that the path her life was taking wasn't where she wanted to be, as well as the resilience it takes to keep moving forward.

The vulnerable verses build toward the bridge's emotional resolution, layered over the third chorus—a striking arrangement where self-affirmation and the song's central question intertwine. Maddy transforms vulnerability into strength in this indie pop anthem, where raw self-reflection and a longing for peace converge. The emotions she conveys—about getting your hopes up with new opportunities, putting yourself out there again and again in search of a seemingly unattainable breakthrough, only to keep hearing "no"—resonate deeply. They culminate in the chorus, where she asks: "So, when can I say I'm finally okay standing right here today?"

"I hope that when you listen to my lyrics, you're able to reflect on your own experiences with rejection—whether in your career, a relationship, or something else—and through that reflection, find yourself in this song and know that you're not alone," says Maddy.

"When Can I Say (i'm finally okay)" is produced by Los Angeles-based producer Mark Aguilar. The track features Mark Aguilar on guitar, bass, drums, and synths; Maddy Michaels on keyboard, lead vocals, and background vocals; and Benjamin Fox on piano. Cover art by JMDesign.

Artist Bio: 
San Jose-based singer-songwriter Maddy Michaels performs across a variety of genres, from pop to jazz. Her music and relatable lyrics bring awareness to challenging experiences and current social issues. Her music encourages audiences to find a path forward during these unprecedented times. Maddy's debut single, "Sanity," released in 2021, explored the themes of struggling with anxiety and self-discovery. A graduate of Berklee College of Music and a Professional Member of the Recording Academy, Maddy is also a content creator and music marketer, overseeing all creative promotion for her releases and working with artists across the industry.

Check out Maddy online: 
Website: maddymichaels.com 
Facebook: maddymichaelsmusic
Instagram: @maddymichaelsmusic
TikTok: tiktok.com/@maddymichaelsmusic 
YouTube: youtube.com/@maddymichaelsmusic
Apple Music
Spotify

MADÓC RELEASES DEBUT EP “ADRENALINE DEMOS” ON JUNE 29TH, 2025

 Listen on 6/29 / Follow here

Breakout Celtic Folk Pop artist, Madóc, releases her debut EP Adrenaline Demos - a six track live session project time-capsuling her most cherished songs in their skeletal acoustic form. The EP is raw, gritty and flooded with self reflection. With powerful vocals reminiscent of Deloris O’Riordan of The Cranberries and honest storytelling influenced by Maggie Rogers, Madóc strikes the souls of their listeners. 

As a queer artist and former youth worker, Madóc does not shy away from speaking out about social justice in this EP. With the third track, “Bridges,” being a fight song for the LGBTQ+ community, she makes a powerful cry for systemic change. This stance continues to be felt in “Rewind,” her self-proclaimed “Teardrops on my Guitar” song for the lesbian community. Beyond their staunch human rights advocacy, Madóc is an artist deeply connected to their Irish culture and Pacific Northwest roots. With that said, her writing tenderly nods to nature and celtic folklore which can be felt especially in crowd favorites, “Into the Ether” and “The Creek.” 

As described by The Hype Magazine from her previous work under Jessica Maddox, “her words realise the track as a provocative, brooding rhapsody of solitude and self-reflection.” Five years later, and now releasing independently, she continues to uphold her cutting lyricism but with more maturity and authenticity. Adrenaline Demos is a solo acoustic EP recorded primarily in one live session during an adrenaline rush. It is a bold showcase of her true talent and vivacious message. 

To celebrate the release of the EP, she will be performing for the first time with a full band on June 29th at Warehouse XI followed by a full West Coast USA tour starting in July 2025.

LILY FITTS RELEASES DEBUT ALBUM "GETTING BY: - HEADLINE TOUR ON SALE NOW

Singer and songwriter Lily Fitts reveals her debut album, Getting By, out now on Thirty Knots Records. Across the album’s 10 tracks, Lily pairs warm acoustic textures with unflinching lyrical vulnerability, offering a raw and honest perspective on life’s ups and downs. Since releasing her first single in 2023, Lily has captivated listeners with her heartfelt blend of indie-folk and alternative country. At its core, Getting By is a coming-of-age story packed with all the highs and lows of young adulthood—heartbreak, anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, and everything in between. Singles like "Brown Eyed Baby" and "In The Dirt" have already amassed millions of streams, demonstrating the anticipation amongst her fans for this full-length project.  "If listeners take anything from this album, let it be this: it’s okay to not have it all figured out, it’s okay to break, it’s okay to feel like you’re just surviving some days,” Lily shares. “But even in the chaos, there’s still strength, there’s still beauty in being vulnerable, and there’s always a glimmer of hope that can pull you through.” With Getting By, Lily Fitts cements her place as one of the most promising new voices in country-folk. Honest, vulnerable, and full of heart, the album marks a major milestone in her artistic journey. As she takes these songs on the road and connects with fans around the world, it’s clear this is just the beginning for Lily.  Alongside her new album, Lily is hitting the road this fall for her first-ever headline tour, The Getting By Tour, with shows in 11 cities across the U.S. She’s also making her UK headline debut at The Grace in London on July 3rd, which sold out in just three days. She’ll also join Willow Avalon for select shows this summer and support Max McNown on eight European dates later this year.  Listen to Getting By on all streaming platforms: https://stem.ffm.to/gettingby

About Lily Fitts: 24-year-old Lily Fitts blends authentic instrumentation with a powerfully soft yet raw vocal tone, creating alternative indie-folk music rooted in emotional honesty and a sense of sharp lyrical truth. Influenced by her Boston upbringing and a wide range of musical inspirations, her sound carries warmth, depth, and an unmistakable sincerity, intended to connect, heal, and empower. Her influences span genres, and she continues to shape a sound that feels both fresh and familiar within the indie folk/Americana space. Lily has been sharing music online since the age of 9, and her acoustic covers on TikTok have drawn attention from artists like Noah Kahan, Zach Bryan, The Lumineers, Sam Barber, and more, eventually leading to her first-ever live performance with Zach Bryan at his sold-out Crypto Arena show in LA. Since then, she’s amassed over 34 million streams across DSPs, marking her as a rising voice in the indie-folk world. Over the last year and a half, Lily has been writing and recording her debut project, Getting By. In that time, she’s hit the road supporting Michael Marcagi, Sam Barber, and Myles Smith, and has played major festivals including Bonnaroo, Summerfest, Lovin' Life, Springfest, and Extra Innings. This summer, she’ll take the stage in London for the first time at Hyde Park, performing alongside Noah Kahan, Gracie Abrams, FINNEAS, and Gigi Perez.

LILY FITTS TOUR DATES July 3 - London, UK @ The Grace (sold out) July 4 - London, UK @ BST Hyde Park (sold out) July 13 - Marshfield, MA @ Levitate Music Festival June 15 - Vancouver, BC @ Biltmore Cabaret^ June 16 - Seattle, WA @ Tractor Tavern^ June 19 - Redmond, OR @ FairWell Music Festival August 14 - Montreal, QC @ Le Studio TD^ August 16 - Toronto, ON @ Opera House^ October 7 - Phoenix, AZ @ The Rebel Lounge October 8 - Los Angeles, CA @ The Echo October 10 - San Francisco, CA @ Cafe Du Nord October 12 - Denver, CO @ Larimer Lounge November 6 - Chicago, IL @ Schubas Tavern November 7 - Nashville, TN @ The Basement November 8 - Atlanta, GA @ Smith's Olde Bar November 9 - Charlotte, NC @ Neighborhood Theatre November 12 - Washington, DC @ The Atlantis November 13 - Brooklyn, NY @ Baby's All Right November 14 - Cambridge, MA @ The Sinclair December 1 - Dublin, IE @ 3Olympia* December 2 - Glasgow, UK @ Barrowland Ballroom* December 3 - Manchester, UK @ Albert Hall* December 5 - Amsterdam, NL @ Melkweg* December 6 - Hamburg, DE @ Fabrik* December 8 - Paris, FR @ Alhambra* December 9 - London, UK @ O2 Forum Kentish Town* December 10 - London, UK @ O2 Forum Kentish Town* ^ opening for Willow Avalon * opening for Max McNown

Photo Credit: Ryan Simmons (@ryan.simmons)

Follow Lily Fitts: Instagram TikTok Facebook YouTube Spotify Apple Music

My First Show

By Isa!

My first show as an original artist was such a memorable moment for me. To finally be able to bring my own music on stage was really incredible, especially if looking back on my evolution from being only a drummer other people call into a songwriter who writes her music and leads the band.

I knew this one was going to be special from the very beginning: I was invited to play by my dear friend Simo, who manages the jam sessions at the famous Rock’n’Roll Club in Milano: I’ve been going to those jams for three years now and that really gave me my confidence and presence on stage, plus the community there is so welcoming, they’re my second home, they’ve seen me grow, play, turn 18 (I had my birthday party there!!), prepare for Berklee and then leave to study in the US. So needless to say it was just going to be full circle to play my first show in such a special place for me. And when I saw another friend of mine in the lineup I knew it was going to be awesome!

Preparing for it was challenging but overall everything went smoothly, I am glad for my previous experience I’ve gotten over the years. Once you send clearly organized charts and demos and you make sure all the questions are tackled most of the work is already done! Plus I had also called really talented musicians so I knew I was playing it safe! Fitting rehearsals in everybody’s schedule was difficult, but this only means that you got good, busy musicians!


As the leader it was on me to take care not only of the music but also of everything else too: promotion, merch (which I crafted myself!), outfit and cohesion… every little bit was a huge lesson for me, I am so glad everything teaches me.

I will forever remember the show itself. This was my first time properly handling a show by myself as a drummer and a singer: this meant constantly having to switch between drums and front of the stage, interacting with the audience, checking on everyone and directing the ensemble when needed. It was challenging, but I am so glad for the feedback I received from those who were there! Lots of people really appreciated my presence on stage and compared the performance to a musical, which is such an awesome compliment for me because that is in a way how I perceive my music, as a soundtrack to my life and those of others. I guess I see life as a musical, so might as well act it out in my concerts! I am also glad that my introductions to the songs were appreciated, it was my first time properly introducing the full set but I was told it felt perfectly fit, so we got that! For my next shows (which are going to be next Friday and next Sunday, I am so excited!) I will prepare and refine my speaking bits even more, to have the full performance come together!

I am also extremely grateful for all the little things that went wrong, which may sound weird, but it really isn’t! This show was, as I said before, literally a home game for me: it was the most welcoming and forgiving environment I could have ever wished for, so I could figure out and learn how to deal with technical mishaps and misfortunes without the judgement of bigger shows. You only learn through mistakes, the best thing that can happen to you is to be in a relaxed environment that is by your side when they happen. I am now stronger, a better leader and more prepared for my next concerts!

Music is all about relationships, and this concert was a perfect representation of that. Everyone in my band had a special relationship to me somehow: some people I met at the renowned Berklee Clinics at Umbria Jazz, some I had seen once in my Conservatorio admission last year; some I met in Berklee (despite living in the same city!), some I met for the first time in rehearsals, but the vibe was just perfect. It’s all about relationships. Having all friends in my band is awesome, it becomes something more than just having people play for you. And seeing the audience resonating with what you’re singing, seeing them enjoying themselves and forgetting about the hardships of life for a moment and being there blissfully is priceless. I look at them, and I know them personally, it’s my family, my closest friends, and I can read it in their eyes that they are full of hope and that they believe in me. In a way, I am the chance they may never have gotten. And I am very well aware that even though they may not physically be with me in Boston or wherever I will be, they are still with me, their presence and trust and faith is with me and gives me strength. So with my playing and my music I am there to bring joy and hope. This is what is behind every show.

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Be sure to follow Isa! on Instagram, and stream her debut single The Flow! Also, be sure to check out all of here appearances her on Section 36 Music!

Thanks Isa!

Questions about "Lessons Not Learned"

I'm sure that you're all huge fans of the latest EP from SARIKA, "Lessons Not Learned". I know that I can't stop listening to it. But whenever I find music I really enjoy, I want to learn all I can about it. I can only assume that you feel that way as well. Thankfully, SARIKA was willing to answer a few questions about the EP so we could all appreciate it even more.

Here's what she had to say!

What do you want listeners to know about EP?

The EP took over a year to record fully–we started in the fall of 2023 and finished just last month. I wrote the oldest song (“Something Blue”) in 2018 and the newest (“Paper Mind”) in 2024. It’s a pop EP overall, but there’s definitely a lot of different styles in there–”From Inside The House” has a very musical theater-y sound, “Paper Mind” draws from alt/indie rock influences, and “Nightrunner” is almost country pop (controversial take given people’s strong opinions on what is and isn’t country, but I’ve heard it from enough people that I don’t think it’s entirely off base). 

How did you come up with the name for the EP?

“Lessons Not Learned” is a lyric from “Nightrunner,” the last song on the EP. I chose it because when I was looking for a common thread between all of the songs, I realized they’re all kind of about either me being foolish or someone else being foolish: “New Spring” is partially about me being emotionally clumsy in a relationship and putting my foot in my mouth; “Something Blue” is about pining over a man who has moved on with someone else; “From Inside The House” is about hypocrites who lack self awareness; “Paper Mind” is about my tendency to put others on a pedestal and base my identity on them; “Everything’s On Fire” is a critique of people who only care about their immediate bubbles in the face of climate change and global turmoil; “Nightrunner” is about getting back with an ex multiple times. 

Do you have any favorite memories of the recording process?

Five friends came into the studio with me to record the gang vocals in the bridge of “From Inside The House.” It’s a home studio on the third floor of a house, it was the middle of the summer, and the AC was making noise so we had to turn it off while recording. We all got very sweaty and very close (literally and figuratively). I remember all sticking our faces in the fan and window between takes to cool down. But we got it done! And got some yummy food and drinks after!

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I want to thank SARIKA for taking the time to share this look at her EP with us. 

Be sure to follow her on Instagram, and Spotify to be sure you won't miss anything (including her two most recent singles)! You'll also want to check out every other time SARIKA has appeared here on Section 36 Music!

Thanks again SARIKA!