Looking Back at “Purgatory Road” by Nina Blu

Purgatory Road is the culmination of a four- and-a-half-year healing process through grief.

Starting at the traumatic experience of a serious accident, Nina recalls the night as something she wasn’t sure she would survive, often wondering what could have been. The accident led to a long recovery, including relearning how to walk. Nina turned to music and embarked on a journey of bravery, bringing her inner artist to life as Nina Blu. She found solace and camaraderie at Berklee, collaborating, making lifelong friends, refining her songs, and seeking a healthy way to express her emotions. Purgatory Road was born during this time, each track becoming a road map of grief in her personal life. It addresses themes of self-discovery, the loss of her dearest friend Blu, her beloved pup for which her project is named, overcoming unexpected setbacks, and navigating your 20s and 30s. Purgatory Road is an emotional soundtrack for all the millennial and Gen Z women facing their own challenges.

Nina hopes to remind listeners that healing is not linear; there isn’t a one-way road map to life; it’s okay to embrace whatever stage you’re in. Her songs serve as companions for anyone searching for hope or clarity amid uncertainty. As Nina continues to evolve as an artist, she invites fans to share in her ongoing journey and find light even in the darkest chapters.

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Nina Blu discovered her voice in the quiet depths of Texas nights, where each note became a whisper. She crafts melodies that evoke empathy, warmth, and humor, inviting listeners to embrace their vulnerabilities and connect through shared
human experiences. Ironically, she spent most of her life trying not to make music. It was only after a serious accident that left her bedridden and unable to walk that the midnight writing sessions caught up to her, revealing her true purpose.

Her musical journey took her to Berklee College of Music, where she earned her Master’s degree in songwriting. There, she truly found her artistry and continued to ignite the same spark in other young artists.

Nina Blu draws inspiration from her lived experiences and distills them into universal emotions.

Nina currently calls NYC a temporary home and is eager to share her music with a new audience.

Nina’s music is a letter to anyone going through those stages of life: rediscovering joy, standing firm in their boundaries, and coming to a resolution of acceptance.

(Photos by Nicola Gell)

One Week of “Up to Fate (The Tarot Card Song)” By Sydney Stevenson

Sydney Stevenson charms fans with an insightful folk-pop single, “Up to Fate (The Tarot Card Song),” in which she delves into life in her 20s. After moving to London, she did some soul-searching to find her current friend group and her way around a new, exciting city. She recalls weekly tarot card readings with one of her now-best friends and channeling this ritual to process life’s events as they transpired. In tarot, you “have to take what resonates with you,” which Sydney emphasizes in the song. “Strong things take time; don’t leave it all behind- at least that’s what the tarot cards say. Pour the tea, close the door, see what’s in store and take what resonates; at least that’s what the tarot cards say; at least that’s what I’ll leave up to fate.” The lyrics pour the energy of hope, passion, and a future of love and fulfillment. You can hear her emotions come through in every note, as she longs to be in the place she envisions but questions herself along the way. 

Sydney says the writing process seamlessly clicked because “so much of your 20s is about finding yourself, but also trusting the process. Tarot cards are a popular trend right now because people want something to hold onto, a sort of guidance.” The song is a call to all dreamers who would love to have some power or control over their love connections and in figuring things out, but who learn to embrace the journey.

“Up to Fate (The Tarot Card Song)” comes in with big production, a folky vocal, a catchy pop chorus, and lush guitars. The track closes with an intimate outro featuring Sydney and her friends laughing and chatting as they do tarot card readings. “Up to Fate” truly captures the energy of being together and navigating life, still playing the cards, but leaning into the here and now. Produced by Nina Sundstrom, mixed by Sophie Ackroyd, and mastered by Izzy McPhee, this team of women has packaged a poignant and witty single.

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Sydney Stevenson is a Canadian singer- songwriter from Toronto, currently based in London, UK. With a growing presence in the local music scene, Sydney captivates audiences with her soulful, folky vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Her music blends folk and pop, creating a distinctive sound that resonates with listeners through emotive songwriting and a warm, engaging presence. 

Drawing inspiration from personal experiences and the world around her, Sydney continues to craft songs that explore love, self-discovery, and resilience. After performing at Camden Assembly and other venues around London, she aspires to make an impact on the music scene through authentic storytelling and performances. Her recent singles, “Nostalgia,” and “Up to Fate (The Tarot Card Song),” may draw fans of Gracie Abrams, Noah Kahan, or Lizzy McAlpine, while her magnetic, poised, and alluring energy sets her apart. Her music creates an atmosphere that feels like a best-kept secret, poised to ignite the indie scene as she blossoms in her musical career.

Photos by Sarah Plenge

Now Available: “Outer Space” by Olivia Zegers

Chilean singer-songwriter Olivia Zegers began writing Outer Space with a vivid goal in mind. “I was sitting on my bed in my childhood room and remembered the wise words a music teacher once told me, “don’t be afraid to write the words you’ll never say out loud”. Zegers embraced that feeling and realized she had been censoring herself based on what others expected from her. Outer Space came from that realization of not being able to express herself under her fear of imperfection. The first verse “My lips are sealed when I need them the most, afraid of causing chaos, afraid to see the ghosts” determines the emotional journey of this song, inviting the listener to be sitting on that bed, feeling what she felt alongside her. 

The 4:35 minute song explores every stage of that emotional journey the musician had been afraid to express. From an intimate, whispery, vocal line during the first third of the song, the instrumentation and power of Zegers’ voice burst into a cinematic and expansive experience for the next section, and finally ending with a sense of reflection, shown with fragility and vulnerability in her vocals and instrumentation.

The recording of this song was one Zegers will never forget. As a multi-instrumentalist herself, she played the main acoustic guitar, and violin tracks, which allowed her to immerse herself into the song even more and portray her emotion through various mediums. This song represents the sound of an artist who embraces every version of herself, and wants to share that with the world. 

CREDITS:
Olivia Zegers - vocals, acoustic guitar, violin
Jackson Perry - drums, bass, acoustic guitar, keyboard
Song and Lyrics by: Olivia Zegers
Produced by: Jackson Perry
Mixing Engineer: Francisco Victoria
Mastering Engineer: Chalo González

Cover Photo: Faith Nguyen

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Olivia Zegers is a 21 year-old singer-songwriter born and raised in Santiago, Chile. Now based in Boston MA, her music is deeply rooted within the alternative folk and pop genres. Her sound is both intimate and expansive, With a voice that balances fragility and power, Olivia creates a sonic space that feels deeply personal yet universally resonant. 

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Section 36 Music Interview

Zaida Rio Releases "Tell Me" for Everyone who Deserves Better!

What started as a breakup song from my first high school relationship, I’ve been sitting on ‘Tell Me’ for 5 years. It was only Fall of 2024 that I picked it back up and decided to finish what I started. This one’s for all the baddies that deserve better:) Huge thanks to Ayden Williams for helping bring this song to life, to Maxx Shearod for seeing this through all 10 different versions, (EDM and all) and for all the incredibly talented creatives that have glued this project together with me, piece by piece.

Song creds:
-composition, acoustic guitar, and singing by me!
-electric guitar by Christian Sese @chris.sese_ (rip PHAM)
-bass guitar by Nico Upegui @nicolas.upegui (rip Soulstice)
-drum programming, keys, horns, production, mixing and mastering by Ayden Williams @a.jaceyyy

Music Video creds:
Director and DP: Linden Skalak @lindenskalak
Assistant Cameras: Bronwen Pailthorpe & Yevgeniya Regent @bronpailthorpe @regent_yevgeniya
Colorist: Bronwen Pailthorpe @bronpailthorpe

Album Cover creds :

Photographer: Bronwen Pailthorpe @bronpailthorpe
Creative Directors: @quincy.diallo @princhinchin

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Singer-songwriter, dancer, and actor Zaida Rio began her music journey in high school, channeling her emotions into lyrics that blend R&B, Neo-Soul, and Latin Pop. She released her debut album, Leaving, in 2022—a collection of songs rooted in heartbreak and self-redemption, and most recently dropped her single, “Tell Me”.

Indie-Pop Artist Luli Moon Returns with Second Single "What Do You Need", an Anthem for Those Stuck in a Situationship!

Photo Credit: Wrenn Bartlett

Boston based indie-pop artist, Luli Moon, releases her second single “What Do You Need,” about the realization of wanting your ‘situationship’ to turn into a real relationship. Luli effortlessly pairs reflective and honest lyrics with a soundscape that emulates the feeling of butterflies and excitement. “What Do You Need” tells an all too familiar story of yearning and uncertainty.

“What Do You Need” is based on Luli’s real-life experiences during college. The title is inquiring what the other person needs in order to emotionally get to the same place. She reflects the anxiety and inner monologue of wanting something more from a casual romance that is dancing around a label. Despite acknowledging that there are “a thousand ways that this could blow up in [her] face,” she sets her fears aside and ultimately is successful. Luli is a true advocate for getting out of your head and being vulnerable. 

Raised on guitar from a young age, Luli quickly fell in love with experimenting and diving into guitar pedals and gear which soon translated into her songwriting and production. What began as sonic curiosity has evolved into a signature sound: dreamy bedroom pop with a funky, guitar-driven edge. Inspired by the bedroom-pop styles of Beabadoobee and Clairo. Luli layers her tracks implementing expressive guitar work with a rhythmic flair. Her songs are filled with lyrical punch and rich arrangements that paint vivid emotional landscapes. Her new single is no exception. 

Beyond her own music, Luli has made a name for herself producing and playing for other artists in the Boston scene. In July, she released her debut single, “Take Your Time,” marking the beginning of a string of planned releases. Her live shows have drawn strong local support, with performances at iconic Boston venues. Whether she’s on stage or in her bedroom studio, Luli Moon is crafting a world where groove, vulnerability, and imagination meet. 

Stay tuned for more to come from Luli Moon soon.

MORE INFO ON LULI MOON 

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Nicole Ash Releases Olive Branch Single "Stitch the Thread"!

If Nicole Ash’s recent single, “Villain (in your eyes),” is a friendship funeral, then “Stitch the Thread” is the olive branch to patch the pieces together. “Villain” wept of anger and the realization that it was time to walk away from something not serving you anymore. On “stitch the thread”, Nicole Ash is ready to move on to a stage of acceptance. The friendship may have unraveled, but the pieces of it that mattered still linger — shaping her into the person she’s become.

“Stitch the thread” is about finding peace, appreciating what once was, and quietly cheering that person on from afar, even if they aren’t around to see it. The song brings layers of nostalgia,Y2K visuals, an anthemic chorus, and a true sense of peace. The wildly catchy guitars, storytelling, and quintessential pop punk vocals take you right back to the days of chatting on AIM or a landline phone with your best friend from middle school.

“Stitch the Thread” is the third single off Nicole Ash’s debut EP — a total ear-candy drop you’ll have on repeat all day.

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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.

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 appearances on Section 36!

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!

Sophia B – “Can’t Erase” (Out Sept 17)

 

Rising singer-songwriter Sophia B, age 21, returns with her haunting new single “Can’t Erase” (out September 17). 

The song explores unforgettable connections that linger in our minds, haunting us even when they’re no longer good for us, with lyrics like:

“Please save me from these memories / Thoughts of you and me that I can't erase…”

Co-produced by Matthew Golub (son of legendary guitarist Jeff Golub), and featuring Steven Mejia on piano/bass and Jacob Singson on drums, the track blends Neo-Soul, Contemporary R&B, and folk influences. Sophia is currently at Berklee Valencia, and the music video and album cover nod to Europe’s historic landscapes — a visual metaphor for memories that can’t be erased.

Early curator praise:
“The vocal performance stood out as soulful and expressive…We’re officially adding Can’t Erase to our Indie Soul & Motion playlist!” – Indie Space Records

“The vibe felt smooth and emotional…a unique character that stays with you after listening.” – Galaxy Frog

Pre-save: Here

Listen / Watch: [YouTube]

Previously on Section 36: Sophia B Visits Section 36!

Alexis Bleu Is "Kinda Funny"

 

Be Inspired!

“Kinda Funny” represents an important chapter in Alexis Bleu’s evolving journey as an artist, continuing her commitment to writing, singing, and producing her own music. The track was recorded in her bedroom, with mixing and mastering handled remotely by Juan Canteli, a collaborator she met through a
Berklee Online course. Juan, who also worked on her earlier track “Summer of ’21” brought the song to life with his polished touch—something Alexis says was essential to making "Kinda Funny" what it is today.

The song was written during a major transitional period in Alexis’s life: she had just transferred from Berklee’s Boston campus to Berklee Online and moved back in with her parents in North Carolina. Struggling with FOMO and feelings of falling behind, she decided to channel those feelings into something uplifting. Drawing instrumental inspiration and lyrical depth from Em Beihold, Stela Cole, and Katie Lynne Sharbaugh, Alexis created a track that’s both emotionally honest and uptempo.
Alexis reflects, “When I was a little girl, I wanted to be this larger-than-life singer... With this song being out, it helps me remember that no matter where life takes me, I know I'll be okay, either way.”

"I hope this song is able to connect with others, and if it does, then I hope it puts a smile on their face, just as it does mine."

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Alexis Bleu is a 21 year old folk/pop singer-songwriter from Michigan. After spending some time studying at Berklee College of Music in Boston, Alexis is once again based in Michigan, continuing her studies with Berklee Online as she works towards a B.A. in Songwriting and Music Production. Alexis strives to bring a sense of joy and belonging to listeners through her music. She hopes to be an inspiration to others, whether through writing about her own struggles with mental health, or simply creating songs to dance to.

Angelina Cara Releases Debut Single “SILENCE” Music Video

Rising independent artist Angelina Cara makes new leaps in her career with her recently released debut music video for her debut single “SILENCE”. The music video, shot in Valencia Spain this past March, marks an exciting addition to her professional portfolio as a young artist. 

“SILENCE” is a gritty, alternative-pop track that captures the chaos of struggling with intrusive thoughts. Co-produced with L.A. based producer Daniel Galicia, the track is filled with punchy and unexpected production details, making it all the more immersive for the listener. It was featured as “Song of the Week” on WDET (Detroit radio) during Chris Campbell’s show “The Progressive Underground”. In the featured segment, Chris expressed his thoughts on the track: 

“’SILENCE,’ showcases her intricate electronic craftsmanship and artistic versatility. It’s a captivating piece highlighting why she’s becoming a standout voice in Detroit’s vibrant music scene.” 

Because of the success Angelina found with her debut release and the strong visual world she carefully crafted to market the piece, she recognized the great potential the track had for a visually stunning music video. After finding director Annette Milburn’s work through loose connections within Berklee, she reached out proposing the track for collaboration. It immediately captured Annette's attention and the project was born. 

After months of meticulous planning, multiple drafts, and careful budgeting, it was decided that Annette and cinematographer/editor Rapheal Edwards would be flown out to Valencia Spain - where Angelina was studying abroad for her 4th semester at Berklee - to location scout and film the piece within 6 days during the middle week of March. This timeframe landed perfectly during the peak of the city’s iconic festival “Las Fallas”, a traditional festival held every March in Valencia known for its spectacular displays of art, fire, and noise. The festival concludes with the burning of the “Falla” statues - intricate and vibrant sculptures built throughout the city for the celebration. 

The “SILENCE” music video features striking visuals from vast unique locations within Valencia and footage from the burnings of the Falla, both enhanced with fantastical visual effects. In just three days of shooting, Angelina was shot delivering an emotional, stunt-filled performance in six different stunning looks carefully planned by Annette and Angelina. Inspired by modern cinematic masterpieces such as the hit Apple TV series “Severance” and several of Billie Eilish’s music videos, the video offers eerie, unexpected, and experimental visuals to capture the track’s unique production. The storyline follows Angelina on a journey as she runs from various “versions” of herself - representing the intrusive thoughts that haunt her.

The music video has already found success on YouTube and will soon be released on streaming platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music. 

Angelina extends her thanks to her collaborators and looks forward to releasing more music and visuals in the future, continuing to expand what she calls her cinematic universe.

Alaina Margaret Droog Returns with End Of Summer Bop "Too Soon?"

Alaina Margaret Droog, known for her compelling music and striking voice, returns with a brand-new single for 2025. “Too Soon?” is a product of deep soul-searching and the joy of turning to creating art on a whim amidst emotional turmoil. Alaina Margaret shares her background story of this track, which channels the freedom of indulging in the things that make you happy and unique. The track, recently penned on July 4 , came to life over a few 4 a.m. nights, with the help of an acoustic guitar, a bucket, a candle, and some knitting needles as makeshift drums, GarageBand, and a bedroom recording setup. Alaina Margaret recounts producing and mixing everything herself, and feeling the high of “I think I’m gonna release it!”

“Too Soon?” raises the question of “Is it too soon to move on?

Corey J. Bryant

 Too soon to be happy?” while proudly asserting that it’s never too soon to have fun and be who you want to be. The soft, playful introduction hints at Alaina’s previous acoustic folk tracks, but never prepares listeners for the all-out, powerful chorus that follows. The dynamic songwriting evokes memories of late-night road trips, screaming at the top of your lungs, blasting Olivia Rodrigo or Elle King. Summer’s magic is still lingering; it’s a time capsule you’ll look back on for years to come, but if you could only save the feelings forever, you’d be cured. Alaina Margaret’s vocal delivery invites you to get caught in the moment and feel alive before the summer ends. True art comes from a place of vulnerability, wondering if you can express yourself in a way that may heal or ignite something inside you, and for this one, we’re all feeling it.