Ariana Visits Section 36 Music!

Section 36 Music had another visitor! Ariana is fresh off her appearance on the single "Abadi", which is amazing! I am so glad that she was willing to visit with us to discuss the song, and a bit more. I'm sure you'll love what she had to say.

So, let's see what happens when Ariana visits Section 36 Music!

You were amazing on your recent single, “Abadi”. What can you tell me about it?
“Abadi” was an important project for me because it brought me into a world of music I hadn’t explored before. Before moving to Boston, I wasn’t very connected to hip-hop from my country. But when a Persian record label in Canada reached out and asked me to create a chorus for Shaawn’s song, I felt it was the perfect opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and explore a new side of the industry. I said yes, and I’m glad I did. Working with that team not only gave me a fresh perspective on Persian music in a modern context, but it also reminded me how powerful it can be to blend cultures, genres, and personal experiences into one track.

Do you have a favorite memory from the recording process?
Absolutely. One of my favorite parts was the top-lining process—coming up with a melody that was instantly memorable and felt like it could live in people’s heads long after the song ended. I also loved recording the multiple takes with my engineer and layering them together until the chorus felt rich and alive. But what made me extremely happy was seeing how the final chorus resonated with people. Listeners who don’t even speak Persian found themselves humming and singing along, and that, to me, is the magic of music—it cuts across languages and cultures and speaks directly to the heart. Knowing that my voice could create that connection is one of the most rewarding parts of being an artist.

You are currently attending Berklee College of Music. What made Berklee the right choice for you?
Berklee had been my dream for as long as I can remember. Back in high school, I was searching for a place that celebrated contemporary music while also giving me the freedom to pursue jazz and R&B and still develop my own personal style. Berklee stood out because it wasn’t just about tradition—it was about innovation. On top of that, I knew a few talented musicians from my country who had come here on scholarships, and seeing their success gave me the confidence to chase the same dream. Now that I’m here, I feel like Berklee is exactly where I belong: a place filled with diversity, creativity, and an environment that pushes me to be better every single day.

Who or what would you consider your greatest musical influences?

My influences are a blend of the sounds I grew up with and the ones I’ve discovered over time. Traditional Persian music gave me a deep appreciation for emotional storytelling and expressive melodies, while jazz and R&B shaped the way I think about groove, harmony, and vocal style. I love both the timelessness of older music and the boldness of contemporary sounds, and I try to take elements from each to create something that feels authentic and unique to me. At the end of the day, I’m inspired as much by the music itself as I am by the stories and emotions that surround me.

What is the most challenging part of your music career?

The hardest part has been daring to walk this path in the first place. Where I come from, pursuing music isn’t seen as a real career—it’s treated as a side interest at best. Choosing music meant going against the expectations of society, my community, and even some people close to me. On top of that, being a singer in a country where singing is illegal for women came with risks that most people can’t imagine. And then there’s the inner struggle—perfectionism, self-doubt, and the fear of not being “enough.” But despite all of that, I’ve learned that every obstacle can be fuel. Each challenge has forced me to grow, and every step I take brings me closer to finding my true voice. That journey of resilience has shaped me not only as a musician but as a person.

What are your immediate musical goals?
Right now, my goals are about creating and connecting. I want to write music that blends my influences into something unique and authentic to me. I want to perform as much as possible, because live performance is where music becomes most alive for me. And above all, I want my voice to reach people around the world. Music has no borders, and my dream is for my songs to resonate with anyone who listens, whether they understand the words or not. If my music can inspire, comfort, or empower someone—even just one person—then I know I’m on the right path.

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It absolutely sounds like she's on the right path!

As always, I want to thank Ariana for visiting with us, and for sending along the pictures to accompany the interview. 

I'm sure you’ll all want to follow her and see what she has going on. I would follow her on Instagram and Spotify to make sure you don't miss a thing. 

Thanks again, Ariana, and good luck reaching your goals!

Olga Prepis Visits Section 36 Music!

Section 36 Music had another visitor! Olga Prepis has an upcoming single, Meraklina, that I am incredibly excited about. I am so excited that she wanted to visit with us to discuss the song, and a bit more. I'm sure you'll love what she had to say.

So, let's see what happens when Olga Prepis visits Section 36 Music!

I’m incredibly excited about your upcoming single, “Meraklina”. What can you tell me about it?

‘Meraklina’ is a song that’s really close to my heart. The word itself comes from Greek, and it captures that deep, untranslatable feeling of doing something with passion, soul, and love. The track is based on a traditional Greek folk song that I reimagined - the lyrics talk about roses and lilies, and how a spirited woman, a meraklina, should be with a man who shares that same passion and zest for life. For me, it was important to honor the tradition and beauty of those lyrics while giving them a fresh sound that feels both nostalgic and modern. At its core, it’s about carrying forward culture and identity, while letting it breathe in a new way.

Do you have a favorite memory from the recording process?

I recorded it with my team of fellow Cypriots, which made the process even more personal and meaningful. When we started layering the vocals over the traditional-inspired instrumentation, I remember getting chills - it felt like the old and the new were finally speaking to each other. That was the moment I knew the song had found its soul. We all just started smiling, and I thought, this is exactly what the song is supposed to feel like.

You graduated from Berklee College of Music. What’s the biggest thing Berklee did for your music career?

The biggest thing Berklee did for me was show me that everyone’s on their own journey. I was surrounded by people from every corner of the world, each with their own sound, background, and story. At first it can feel overwhelming, but what I learned is that there isn’t a single formula for success in music, what matters is staying true to your own path. That lesson gave me the confidence to embrace my identity and lean into my heritage in my artistry, which is a big part of why a song like ‘Meraklina’ exists. Instead of comparing myself to others, I started focusing on what only I can bring to the table. That shift in perspective has shaped everything I’ve done since.

What do you consider your biggest challenges with your music career?

One of the biggest challenges has been balancing authenticity with the pressure to fit into certain industry expectations. It’s so easy to get caught up in what’s trending or to compare yourself to other artists, and I’ve definitely felt that pull at times. But I’ve learned that if I chase what’s popular instead of what feels true to me, the music loses its soul. Staying grounded in my own voice, even when it feels risky, has been the most important lesson. Another big challenge has been patience. The music industry doesn’t move in a straight line - there are moments of excitement and momentum, but also long stretches where things don’t happen as quickly as you’d like. Learning to keep creating and believing in my vision, even during the slower times, has taught me resilience. Those challenges haven’t always been easy, but they’ve made me more determined and ultimately brought me closer to who I want to be as an artist.

If you could cover any Disney song, which one would you choose? Why?

I’d choose ‘Speechless’ from the live-action Aladdin. I love that it was written specifically to give Jasmine her own anthem, one that showcases her strength, independence, and determination to be heard. The message of refusing to stay quiet and standing up for yourself resonates with me on so many levels, especially as a woman navigating the music industry. There are times when you feel pressure to shrink yourself or fit into someone else’s expectations, and ‘Speechless’ is the exact opposite, it’s about claiming your space unapologetically. That’s something I try to do in my own music as well: to write songs that tell my story while encouraging others to embrace their voice and identity without hesitation.

What are your immediate musical goals?

My immediate musical goals are all about continuing to develop my artistry. I want to keep refining my sound, writing as much as possible, and experimenting with new influences. Each project is a chance to grow creatively and get closer to the most authentic version of myself as an artist. Collaborating with other musicians is also key, because every perspective helps me evolve. Ultimately, it’s about building a strong foundation for long-term artistic growth, not just focusing on the next release.

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I'm a big fan of "Speechless" as well!

As always, I want to thank Olga for visiting with us, and for sending along the pictures to accompany the interview. 

I'm sure you’ll all want to follow her and see what she has going on. I would follow her on Instagram and Spotify to make sure you don't miss a thing. 

Thanks again, Olga, and good luck reaching your goals!

Announcing “Grounded” - The Debut Single From Simona Kara!

Boston-based artist Simona Kara will drop her debut single, Grounded, on October 3rd, 2025.

Grounded is a Pop/Rock composition about coping with change and struggling to live in the present moment instead of in our minds. 

Kara was inspired to write this song upon entering Berklee College of Music in the Fall of 2024, as she was faced with feelings of unfamiliarity and transition. The song captures what it feels like when your brain is speed running ahead of you and you can’t catch up. 

Grounded is available to pre-save, and will be yours to stream on October 3rd, 2025. Get ready for something special!

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Simona Kara is a versatile Pop, R&B, Soul and Jazz vocalist and songwriter from Newton, Massachusetts. Singing since childhood, Kara has always been deeply connected to music. While songwriting once felt like a routine practice, coming to Berklee unlocked a new creative path and her feelings began to inspire her more than ever; feelings that she couldn’t possibly put into words. This revelation quickly bloomed into writing music, and has since then become the greatest form of expression for her as an artist. Kara finds that each song she writes captures her feelings in ways nothing else ever could. "When the words don’t come to me, the music always does”, Kara says, “I love everything about writing, arranging and producing a song with the intent of evoking an emotion in a person". 

Kara grew up immersed in music, as her parents are both Jazz musicians and have been in the industry for over two decades. She always found herself intrigued by how effective music is at connecting society, even though people live through vastly different experiences from one another. It has a way of tugging at our most vulnerable emotions and making us feel them wholly and deeply. That is what Kara does when she sings, performs, and writes. The passion for relating to other people is what drives her to create, no matter how terrifying vulnerability can feel! 

Nicole Ash Releases Unapologetic Second Single "Villain (In Your Eyes)"

Sube Films

Nicole Ash gains momentum leading into a darker second single from he upcoming EP. “Villain (In Your Eyes)” is a breakup anthem for a long-time friendship. The track delves into the inner turmoil of feeling like the bad guy, no matter what you do. After years of trying to patch things and continue a friendship that no longer serves you, it may be time to say goodbye. “Villain (In Your Eyes)" not only allows listeners to come to terms with those types of relationships but also empowers them to move on, offering a friendship funeral and a chance to start anew.

"Villain (In Your Eyes)" is a stark contrast to her, more lighthearted single “Seeing Signs”. This track is raw, unapologetic, and shows more grit, unveiling Nicole Ash’s versatility and growth as an artist. Co-written and produced by Jojo Centineo, “Villain (In Your Eyes)" is your sign to move on. Be sure to add this track to your revenge playlist.

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Nicole Ash is a solo artist originally from New Jersey and now based in North Carolina. She started her musical journey as a songwriter and guitarist, gaining recognition for her guitar covers on social media and her band, Wayne Avenue. Her social media following has now surpassed 85k followers, thanks to her signature energetic guitar covers and alluring performance personality. In 2022, Nicole took a bold step into singing with her solo project, a true testament to her dedication and artistic evolution.

Sube Films

Her influences of pop punk and alternative rock are evident in her music, particularly from artists such as Avril Lavigne, My Chemical Romance, Green Day, and Blink-182. Nicole is set to release her debut EP in 2025, a milestone in her journey, and hopes to inspire others with her mantra of relentlessly following her dreams.

Be sure to look for her other apeearances on Section 36!

Wire - By Shea Dewan

 

"Wire" - by Shea Dewan

Release Date: September 26, 2025

What You Should Know: Check out the debut offering as soon as she can. As Shea says, "This just might be my favorite song I’ve ever written, and it’s the first of many I hope to share with you!"

Find It: Everywhere like Spotify and Apple

Autumn Mackenzie Visits Section 36 Music!

Section 36 Music had another visitor! Autumn Mackenzie is ready to release her debut EP this week! I am thrilled that she wanted to visit with us to discuss the EP, and a bit more. I'm sure you'll love what she had to say.

So, let's see what happens when Autumn Mackenzie visits Section 36 Music!

I can’t wait for your upcoming EP, “Hi, My Name is Autumn”. What can you tell me about it?

“Hi, My Name is Autumn” is my first release, and it feels like a long time coming. I’m an only child, and when I was little my parents would make me go up to other kids and introduce myself by saying, “Hi, my name is Autumn, do you want to be my friend?” It felt like the perfect title for my introduction to the world. Each song on the EP was written three years apart, at ages 13, 16 and 19, and now I’m 23, and I am so excited to finally get to share them with the world.

Do you have a favorite memory from the recording process?

I had the privilege of working with so many fantastic musicians, Soraya Rafat, Jaxon Lane, Matthew “Steady” Ricetti, Matilde Heckler, and Regan Kulig (also known as Gage Kay) during the recording of the EP. What might be the most special part of the recording process though, is that I got to do it all with one of my closest and oldest friends, Kiara Nothhaft. We met at 14 years old, and she’s watched me develop not only as an artist but as a human. I’ll always reflect fondly on laughing in the studio with her and bringing this EP to life together.

The album includes your recent single, “I’ve Dated the Devil”. How does that song fit with the tone of the rest of the EP?

“I’ve Dated the Devil” has always felt like the proper choice to be the first single I released. It’s catchy, witty, and makes listeners say, “did I hear that right?” I love making people laugh or double take. Overall the EP takes great influence from classic country artists like Dolly Parton and Merle Haggard and meets that influence with modern touches of early Taylor Swift and Kacey Musgraves. “I’ve Dated the Devil” is definitely the most twangy, true to the genre song on the EP, but “Mercy” and “Rabbit Hole” hold onto those influences while incorporating others. I’d not only called this EP my introduction, but a twisted fairytale as well. We start in Hell and end up in Wonderland, and you’ll have to listen to find out how.

Who or what would you consider your biggest musical influences?

Taylor Swift is the reason I started writing songs at 7 years old. As a child my dad was listening to the Eagles and Carole King, and my mom was listening to LeAnn Rimes and The Chicks, so that’s my basis for music. When I was old enough to develop my own taste outside of their influence, I found Kacey Musgraves, and I would say my writing style is most reminiscent of her: honest, creative, and sarcastic at times.

If you could cover any Disney song, which one would you choose? Why?

My favorite Disney song of all time is “I Won’t Say I’m in Love” from Hercules. I’m fairly cynical and like my independence, so when I feel something I fight it until I can’t anymore. It’s also just such a fun song, and I love how the backing vocals create a conversation between her and the muses. It’s a song I could cover with my friends, which is my favorite way to make music.

What are your immediate musical goals?

All my life all I’ve ever wanted was to write music, have someone hear it, and know that I’m here, I feel it too, and neither of us is ever alone. In the immediate future I am performing in three concerts this fall. I hope to keep playing shows and doing interviews as I promote the EP, as a way to meet people who connect with what I’ve experienced. I would love to play a full band show in the next year as well, have physical CDs made of “Hi, My Name is Autumn” and release more music. Keep your eye out for what’s next.

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I'm definitely excited for more music!

As always, I want to thank Autumn for visiting with us, and for sending along the pictures to accompany the interview. 

I'm sure you’ll all want to follow her and see what she has going on. I would follow her on Instagram and Spotify to make sure you don't miss a thing. 

Thanks again, Autumn, and good luck reaching your goals!

Zoey Gulotta Visits Section 36 Music!

Section 36 Has another visitor! Zoey Gulotta is a member of the band Fatal Femmes, who just released an album that you just need to hear. I was so excited that she wanted to visit with us to discuss the band, and a bit more. I'm sure you'll love what she had to say.

So, let's see what happens when Zoey Gulotta visits Section 36 Music!

You’re the lead singer for the group Fatal Femmes. What can you tell me about them?

I formed Fatal Femmes as a project to play my original rock music with skilled musicians who are underrepresented in the scene: women and non-binary people, as well as the queer community. To be a Fatal Femme means to be energetic, sensitive, and expressive. We, as a group, combine the angst of rock and roll with eclectic poetic lyricism, and take up space to deliver you a performance you won't forget. 

The group just released an album, “Live in Portland”. What should listeners know about the album?

We released "Live in Portland" because the energy from this show was radiating through the performance, and we wanted to give people who have been following our music a version of our originals they can listen to while we work on the release process for our studio tracks. We purposely left out originals we played, so listeners have to wait for the album, and the studio versions have details that have never been done at shows. I am personally a huge fan of live performances where you can feel the energy- such as "Roadhouse Blues" by The Doors, from the American Prayer album. 

Do you see studio work in your future?

I most definitely see more studio work in the future. We are working on the mix for our first EP at the moment, and I have a lot more new music to be played and recorded, as Fatal Femmes gets settled into the Seattle scene since my relocation from Boston. 

Who or what would you consider your biggest musical influences?

My biggest musical influences include Patti Smith, Lou Reed, Jim Morrison, PJ Harvey, Fiona Apple, and it could go on, but I like to classify my influences as "Poetic Rockstars". I have been a poet my whole life, and rock and roll provides the absolute freedom needed to convey the power of words to audiences, which gives me the ultimate catharsis to perform them together as one. 

If you could cover any Disney song, which one would you choose? Why?

I had to rack my brain on this one to figure it out. I haven't watched a Disney movie in a long time if I'm being honest. I'd probably do "Poor Unfortunate Souls," bring up the tempo and do it in the emotional style of The Smiths. 

What are your immediate musical goals?

My immediate music goals are to fund and film a music video for our upcoming single "Concept", and work on finishing and recording new music with my band. There will be lots of content and art coming from Fatal Femmes in the next few months!

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I'm so excited about more music to come. And, I'll admit, I need to hear that Poor Unfortunate Souls cover brought to life!

As always, I want to thank Zoey for visiting with us, and for sending along the pictures to accompany the interview. 

I'm sure you’ll all want to follow her , and her band, to see what thay have going on. I would follow them on Instagram and Spotify to make sure you don't miss a thing. 

Thanks again, Zoey, and good luck reaching your goals!