In this episode of Pop Beyond, we sit down with Daniel Tortoledo – the creative mind behind Daniel Tortoledo & The Sound Machine. In a warm and thoughtful conversation, Daniel shares how music became his compass – from growing up in Venezuela to finding creative freedom in New York’s indie scene. We explore his songwriting process, the story behind the band name, and why every good song starts with truth. Daniel talks about cultural identity, creative flow, and what it means t...

In this intimate episode of Pop Beyond, we sit down with singer, songwriter, and actress Yara M’Toto to explore the emotional layers of her artistry – from her roots in musical theatre to her powerful solo performances and soulful songwriting. Yara shares the journey behind her creative voice, shaped by both stage and studio experiences. We discuss writing techniques like method writing, discovering strength in vulnerability, and how she navigates life as a multidisciplinary artist. Fro...

In this heartfelt episode of Pop Beyond, we sit down with singer, songwriter, and producer Alexa Lopez to dive into the emotional layers of her music — from her self-produced EP Love, Death + Music to the concept-driven project breakup breakdown breakthrough, inspired by the five stages of grief. Alexa talks about growing up in a musical family, how she blends genres like indie pop, R&B, and jazz without losing her core, and why her voice feels “purple, warm, and cold at the same ti...

In this episode of Pop Beyond, we dive deep into the sonic universe of producer and multi-instrumentalist Bluefoxx, also known as Diana Heidernätsch. She shares the story behind her latest concept album exploring all the minor keys, and why melancholic tonality holds such emotional and philosophical weight for her. We talk about her unique approach to combining classical piano with synth-based soundscapes, how she builds ambient textures with depth and space, and what it means to...

In this soulful episode of Pop Beyond, we sit down with Austrian singer-songwriter VILO to explore the emotional heart of her music — from her empowering solo Singles Good Girl and Kisses & Lip Bites to her energetic live shows with her rock band JLP. VILO opens up about her creative process, personal growth, and how she channels stories and emotions into her songs. We talk about musical influences, live show memories, and what it’s like navigating band life with her close-knit...

In this episode of Pop Beyond, we sit down with Irish singer-songwriter Marten James – a storyteller with a soft voice and a sharp ear. We dive into his New Music Friday series, how he balances personal taste with audience discovery, and why songwriting often starts with memory and silence. Marten talks about growing up in Ireland, his first real connection with music, and how social media can be both a blessing and a battle. From lyrical goosebumps to content pressure – this is ...

In this episode of Pop Beyond, we sit down with rising singer-songwriter FIO, just a day after the release of her debut single. We dive deep into the stories behind her lyrics, her roots, and the personal experiences that shaped her unique sound. From early inspirations to bold political opinions – FIO opens up about what drives her music and where she’s headed next. Tune in for a raw and honest conversation about artistry, identity, and why sometimes the quietest voices carry the...

In the very first episode of Pop Beyond, we welcome Max Larson, an emerging music producer and VMI student. Max shares his journey into music production, the challenges he's faced along the way, and the creative process behind his latest track "Across The Great Pacific", released in December 2024. In this episode, we discuss: 🎼 The story behind his latest track & what inspired it 🎛 The struggles and breakthroughs in his production process 🌍 Insights into the...