"I'm Lost Without You 2" is a deeply emotional R&B soul track that explores the vulnerability and longing that come with love and loss. With soulful melodies and raw, heartfelt lyrics, the song paints a picture of two people lost without each other, capturing both the pain and the depth of connection. It’s a reflection on how love can leave a void, and how sometimes both partners are equally lost in the absence of each other. Perfect for those moments when you feel like love is all you need to find your way back.

I'm Lost Without You 2

"Forgive Me" by TGP MuSIC is a deeply emotional R&B/Soul track that explores the vulnerability and regret that comes with seeking forgiveness. With soulful vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and a smooth, soothing melody, this song expresses the raw emotions of asking for a second chance and hoping for healing. Whether you're dealing with heartbreak or personal mistakes, Forgive Me speaks to the universal experience of redemption and growth. 💔🎶

#ForgiveMe #TGPmusic #RnB #Soul #ApologySong #HeartfeltMusic

Forgive Me

The final little treat in this celebration week! It's a walk down the Artifice memory lane with "love notes" from a bunch of my fabulous guests, and some present-day reflection (plus a mild helping of tears) from me. <3

This is the best Valentine's Day gift of my 36 years of life. My heart is fully bursting. Happy Valentine's Day to this heartful little project, to all 200 artists who've changed my life over these past 5 years, and to all of the listeners. I love ya!

Artifice

Ep. 200 Pt. 4: Love Notes - Happy Valentine's Day!

William D. Higginson: A Canadian Surrealist Visionary

William D. Higginson is a Canadian surrealist painter whose evocative works have captivated audiences worldwide. A professional artist since 2007, Higginson explores a vast array of mediums and genres, creating pieces that resonate on both emotional and intellectual levels. His art is held in private collections across the globe and has been featured in numerous prestigious solo exhibitions. Notable showcases include sellout shows at The Space An Art Gallery (2023 and 2017), The Chali Rosso Art Gallery (2019, alongside works by Salvador Dalí), and The Vancouver Club (2016).

Higginson’s accolades highlight his exceptional talent: he claimed 1st place in the Surrealize International Art Competition (2022), two consecutive Golden Brush First Place awards (2011 and 2012), and an Award of Excellence from the Canadian Federation of Artists (2011). These accomplishments are a testament to his skill, vision, and dedication to his craft.

His life story is as compelling as his art. Diagnosed with life-threatening liver failure and leukemia at age 11, Higginson spent three years confronting his mortality. During his hospital stay, a request for pencils and paper marked the beginning of a profound artistic journey. “Living with such conditions changes your perspective on life,” Higginson reflects. This early brush with mortality informs much of his work, often blending humor, surrealism, and deeply personal revelations.

Beyond his individual achievements, Higginson has made a significant impact on the art community. As the owner of Impressions Live Art since 2007, he pioneered live painting performances, bringing art to audiences in dynamic and interactive ways. He co-founded Direct2Artist, a global initiative supporting thousands of artists in over 80 countries, and served as its Community Director (2013–2019). His roles as Membership Chair for the Federation of Canadian Artists (2013–2016) and Owner/Operator of Art Battle Vancouver (2013–2014) underscore his commitment to fostering artistic talent and community.

Higginson’s artistic philosophy centers on emotional engagement and introspection. “My dreams and imagination conjure imagery that I forever strive to render as clear on canvas as in my mind,” he says. This relentless pursuit of creative excellence has made his work a source of inspiration for collectors, art enthusiasts, and aspiring artists alike.

Whether mentoring young talents or refining his own craft, Higginson’s passion for art remains unyielding. His journey from hospital bed to international acclaim is a testament to the transformative power of creativity and perseverance.

Discover more at: www.williamhigginson.com
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/william.d.higginson/

Ep. 201: William D. Higginson

This song is a haunting and anthemic gothic-alternative-metal ballad that explores the intense emotions and vulnerability of taking a leap of faith, literally and metaphorically. With its soaring female vocals, reminiscent of Evanescence, and a sweeping soundscape that combines elements of hard rock, classical, and EDM, the song creates a sense of weightlessness and suspension, as if floating in mid-air. The lyrics touch on themes of fear, trust, and the preciousness of life, with the chorus's repeated refrain of "fall like an angel, fall like a stone" evoking a sense of surrender and liberation. The song's intense, driving rhythms and haunting melodies add to the overall sense of urgency and emotional release.



LYRICS: 

[Verse]
Do you see me
Believe me?
I want to know how it ends
Reflect your eyes in mine
Searching for a sign
I see your smile
Wait for me 

[Chorus]
Fall like an angel
Fall like a stone
Just let the air surround us
Time
Life is precious
Catch me in slow motion
So gentle and tenacious 

[Post-Chorus]
Weightless and suspended
Pairs as we descended
Red cheeks and crimson clouds
Pick up speed into the ground 

[Verse 2]
Fears keep us low
Tied underground
Trying to explain how I know
Voices above
Calling us back
But I no longer need to think 

[Chorus]
Fall like an angel
Fall like a stone
Just let the air surround us
Time
Life is precious
Catch me in slow motion
So gentle and tenacious 

[Post-Chorus]
Weightless and suspended
Pairs as we descended
Red cheeks and crimson clouds
Pick up speed into the ground

Fall Like An Angel

This song is a haunting and emotional journey through the depths of inner turmoil, pain, and fear. The lyrics convey a sense of being trapped in a dark world of memories, ghosts, and shattered truths, where the lines between reality and nightmare are blurred. Desperate to break free from the suffocating silence and darkness, crying out for help and guidance to escape the twisted dream and find solace in the light. The song's atmospheric and introspective soundscapes perfectly capture the mood of desperation, longing, and vulnerability. 


LYRICS: 

[Verse 1]
Shadow falls without a sound
Whispers haunt me all around
Trapped in layers of fear and pain
Chasing ghosts down memory lane 

[Verse 2]
Broken mirrors shattered truth
Silence echoes through my youth
Lost in fragments of my soul
Drowning deep in the black hole 

[Chorus]
Hey
Can you hear me callin'?
Screams in the silence
I'm fallin'
Wake me from this twisted dream
Guide me back to the moonbeam 

[Verse 3]
Midnight's cold and bitter bite
Loneliness my darkened knight
Voices tell me lies
Deceit
Wounds that never seem to sweet 

[Verse 4]
Crimson tears beneath my eyes
Truth and pain a cruel disguise
In the dark
My heart is seized
Seeking solace
Never pleased 

[Chorus]
Hey
Can you hear me callin'?
Screams in the silence
I'm fallin'
Wake me from this twisted dream
Guide me back to the moonbeam


I'm Fallin

I'm Fallin'

A poignant acoustic journey through time as a young boy speaks to his future self, asking life's biggest questions and receiving wisdom from across the years. Through gentle fingerpicking and raw, emotional male vocals, this song explores the universal human experience of growing up and facing life's complexities.

"How We'll Be" unfolds as an intimate dialogue between innocence and experience, hope and reality. A child wonders about wealth, success, love, and happiness, while his older self responds with hard-earned wisdom about life's unpredictable path.

This stripped-down acoustic arrangement intentionally keeps the focus on the emotional narrative, allowing the conversation between past and future to resonate with listeners who've walked their own winding roads through joy and heartbreak, wealth and struggle, dreams and their sometimes bittersweet fulfillment.

Written as a reminder that life rarely unfolds as we imagine in childhood, but carries beauty even in its imperfection.

Lyrics:

Little eyes full of wonder, looking ahead
Ten years old with a million questions in my head
Will I grow tall and strong? Will I find my way?
Hey future me, what can you say?

Will we be rich with treasures and gold?
Will we find success before we grow old?
Will we find someone to hold through the night?
Will we be happy? Will everything be alright?
Tell me, future me, what will our life be?

I see you there with your innocent heart
I wish I could shield you from where we'd start
Yes, we'll have money, then watch it all go
The richest moments? They won't come from what we own

We'll taste wealth and we'll know hungry days
We'll find success, but in unexpected ways
We'll find love – deep and true – but feel its sting
Happiness comes and goes on broken wings
Trust me, younger me, that's how our life will be

Will we have lots of friends to laugh with and play?
A faithful few who stay through the darkest days
Will we be all I dream we can be?
Not quite, but someone stronger than you'd believe

There'll be mistakes and failures, scars on our soul
Moments when pieces break, never again whole
But there's beauty in the breaking, in starting again
In finding your feet after the rain

We'll know wealth in the things money can't buy
We'll find triumph in simply choosing to try
We'll know love that's worth all of the pain
Happiness found in dancing through the rain
This is us, this is life, this is how we'll be

If I could tell you one thing to hold onto tight
It's that you're stronger than you know
And though the path isn't straight
The journey makes you whole
Little me, it's all going to be alright

How We'll Be

As a multi-generational artist, Sara was immersed in the culture of fine art since her birth in West Jordan, Utah. Sara is a dedicated and tireless mother to seven children, six boys and one girl. While studying for her MFA at the Academy of Art University Sara gave birth to four children. 

Sara’s approach to art is best described in her own words:

STOP … and Smell the Flowers

Living life to the fullest is really about enjoying each moment and it is the simple things that make life wonderful.

We live in such a fast-paced, technological world and our days are so filled with endless busy-ness, that it is hard to really stop what we are doing and have meaningful experiences.

One thing that I have loved, is being able to take time out of my hectic life to create art. I have also found a great personal connection to the idea of stopping. We have to stop to see or smell a flower, to look at the clouds, to pray, and think about a higher power, to be in tune with the desires of our hearts and the inspiration we are receiving.

My paintings represent beautiful, colorful moments. Through them I have been able to share my happiness and zest for life.

~ ~ ~

I realized that the way I painted was almost exactly the way I live life - especially my parenting style: Jump right in without much of a plan but great expectations, make it as colorful and as interesting as possible, make a few mistakes along the way, and end up with something that’s a little messy and rough, but full of color and character.

Sara’s art is held by private collectors around the nation. Sara has grown roots in Kingman, Arizona, initiating several culturally progressive projects for the benefit of local families, including Kingman Center for the Arts and Beale Street Theater.

Sara Peterson Gallery has been designated as a "Trusted Art Seller" with The Art Storefronts Organization, which means you can shop with confidence, and know that I stand behind the quality and value of my products.

https://www.sarapetersongallery.com/

Ep. 202: Sara Peterson

yo, this one is a blend of raw energy and deep reflection. Its about the journey, the hustle, and staying true to yourself. Feeling unapologetic, for a reason. We cannot get a replay. Produced by Nico.Kaplan. Huge care package incoming soon God. peace

Yamimoto (Produced by Nico.Kaplan)

yo, this is a testament to the power of hip hop as a vehicle for storytelling and social commentary. It includes vivid language, powerful imagery and raw emotion. This type of music is bigger than life. i am a force of my own nature. peace God. drive safe

Care Package (Produced By Kiyoto)

violet ex machina | feature-reel here: https://www.instagram.com/p/DGy6GSnAQ3a/

here and there 
upon scorched field
s wild violets
 
– Arii Shokyu-Ni – 

Arii Shokyu-Ni was a haiku poetess during the Edo period who began a wandering life after running away from her husband at 29 with the haiku poet Kohaku. Just like Matsuo Basho, "the Nun Shokyu" traveled to the Deep North of Japan.

Contribution for naviarrecords’ Haiku 582.

https://www.naviarrecords.com/naviarhaiku582-here-and-there/

violet ex machina

For the fifth year, Utrecht’s fish doorbell is live, helping fish migrate through the Weerdsluis lock. This clever initiative, launched on March 3, uses a live-stream camera to let the public assist fish in their journey.

Every spring, thousands of fish—like bream, pike, and bass—swim from the River Vecht to the River Kromme to spawn. But obstacles like sluices and dams can block their way, leaving them stranded and vulnerable. That’s where the fish doorbell comes in. Developed by two ecologists, it allows viewers to alert the lock keeper when fish are waiting, prompting the gate to open.

It’s simple: watch the live stream, click the doorbell when you see a fish, and snap a picture. The lock keeper then reviews the images and decides when to open the gate. Last year, nearly three million people tuned in, ringing the doorbell over 40,000 times! The footage also helps scientists track fish migration and water quality.

Though a Dutch invention, the fish doorbell has gone global. Fans from the U.S., Brazil, and New Zealand eagerly participate each year between March and May. Social media buzzes with excitement, and some enthusiasts even send letters of appreciation.

Beyond the fun, this project highlights how technology and citizen science can support conservation. Fish play a crucial role in maintaining water quality, and their presence signals a healthy ecosystem.

Curious? Try it yourself! Watch the stream, spot a fish, and ring the bell at www.visdeurbel.nl/en. Who knew helping fish could be this entertaining?

What's right: fish doorbell now live!

This poignant song captures the arduous journey of healing from lost love, where acceptance battles persistent memories ("echoes of past smiles"). The song confronts shattered confidence and fragile emotional defenses, masking raw pain behind a "weary brave smile." Themes of eroded faith, suffocating comparisons to past relationships, and fleeting hope underscore the tension between clinging to nostalgia and embracing reality.

A WEARY BRAVE SMILE

"Faded Away" is a deeply emotional track that captures the feeling of losing touch with oneself in the midst of overwhelming emotions. Bobby Clayton’s voice brings a raw, vulnerable energy, perfectly matching the sentiment of the lyrics. The song explores the mental and emotional exhaustion that comes from feeling disconnected and unsure, with the powerful refrain "I faded away, my mind can't take this" expressing the slow unraveling of one’s thoughts and sense of self.

With a haunting, atmospheric sound, the track blends soft piano melodies with subtle strings, creating a sense of quiet desolation. The lyrics paint a picture of someone struggling to hold onto their sanity, weighed down by the pressures and complexities of life. It’s a track that speaks to the moments when you feel mentally drained and lost, unable to find peace within your own mind.

Bobby Clayton’s heartfelt delivery adds an intimate layer to the song, making "Faded Away" resonate with anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed, disconnected, or on the verge of losing themselves. The song invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences with emotional struggle and the journey of trying to reclaim their inner strength.

Faded Away

In this episode, we’re getting real about something we all struggle with—vulnerability. Many people see vulnerability as a weakness, but here’s the truth: being open and honest about your feelings, fears and challenges is one of the strongest things you can do for yourself. Think of it as a built in Superpower!

You will hear up close and personal stories and lessons learned along the way from myself and my AMAZING guests demonstrating how embracing vulnerability can lead to serious personal growth. 

If you recognize it's time to stop avoiding uncomfortable feelings and start using them to build a stronger, more confident you, this episode is for you! Let's GOOOOO!

For FREE Resources, Quizzes, my Self-Love Merch Shop, book links, website and more, click on the link below.
https://www.linktr.ee/kristenbrownauthor

The Powerful Link Between Vulnerability & Personal Growth


The lyrics express a heartfelt offer of unconditional emotional support and physical comfort to someone in distress. The narrator emphasizes empathy ("I see the hidden tears"), reliability ("strong arms to hold you"), and selfless intentions ("no strings attached"), urging the listener to voice their needs openly. The song centers on creating a safe space for vulnerability, trust, and healing through genuine care rather than transactional or superficial motives.  


TELL ME

The lyrics portray raw anguish from a one-sided, exploitative relationship where the narrator sacrificed everything ("my heart, my soul, my joy & pain") only to face betrayal and emotional devastation. Themes of shattered trust ("swallowed the lies"), desperate pleas ("begging please"), and irreversible heartbreak ("broken man left in shame") culminate in a cycle of tears and mental collapse, reflecting the toll of unreciprocated love and self-loss.  

I CRY CRY CRY

"Beneath the Surface" is a hauntingly beautiful blues-folk ballad that explores the hidden depths of the human spirit. Inspired by an ancient oracle and a journey of self-discovery, the song delves into themes of decay, resilience, and the courage to confront uncomfortable truths. With raw, evocative lyrics and a melancholic melody, "Beneath the Surface" invites listeners to look beyond appearances and embrace the vulnerability of authentic living. It's a song about pruning the garden of the soul, letting go of what no longer serves, and finding hope amidst the cracks in the earth.


(Verse 1) Dust settles on the old stone well, Spirit whispers, a story to tell. Asked the question, heart full of plea, But the answer came back, a shadow on me.

(Chorus) A pit in the ground, a shadow descends, Decay is creepin', where hope often ends. Bound by the water, lost in the foam, Gotta break these chains, to find my way home.

(Verse 2) Took on too much, a tangled vine, Lost my direction, lost my shine. Tried to hold on, to everything I knew, But the roots were rotten, and the branches untrue.

(Chorus) A pit in the ground, a shadow descends, Decay is creepin', where hope often ends. Bound by the water, lost in the foam, Gotta break these chains, to find my way home.

(Bridge) Spirit's callin', a whisperin' breeze, Let go of the burden, find your ease. Prune the garden, let the sunlight through, A new bloom risin', honest and true.

(Outro)
(Harmonica solo - mournful and reflective) Yeah, gotta break these chains… find my way home… (Guitar fades out slowly)



Beneath the Surface

Bobby Clayton from Kent UK is a heartfelt and soulful easy listening artist that touches the hearts of listeners with his emotive songs.

Bobby Clayton creates a soothing and introspective musical experience. Drawing inspiration from the beautiful landscapes of Kent and the rich folk traditions of the region, his music is a blend of gentle melodies, and heartfelt lyrics. Bobby songs invite listeners to reflect on life's joys and sorrows, while offering a sense of comfort and connection.   

 Keep an ear out for his upcoming releases and be prepared to be swept away by the heartfelt beauty of his work.

Xak Stahl: Sonic Alchemist and Storyteller Extraordinaire

Xak Stahl is a boundary-pushing artist who transforms life's complexities into captivating musical narratives. His unique sound—a fusion of indie folk, electronic, and alternative influences—creates an immersive experience that resonates with the soul. Each composition is a journey, inviting listeners to explore the depths of human emotion and the heights of musical innovation.

Introducing Zoé Le Fleur: The Voice of Enchantment

Elevating Xak's sonic landscapes is the mesmerizing Zoé Le Fleur. Her voice, a perfect blend of ethereal lightness and raw power, brings an extra dimension to tracks like "Ce qui est juste" and "Heartbeat High." Zoé's performances transform these songs into anthems of the heart, her dynamic range perfectly complementing Xak's intricate compositions.

From Personal Struggle to Universal Resonance

Xak's musical journey is one of transformation and resilience. Early works like 'Neon Dreams' and 'Rising Through the Darkness' showcase his gift for turning personal challenges into universal themes. His latest opus, 'Major Arcana,' is a bold exploration of life's archetypes, with each track inspired by a Tarot card, beginning with the adventurous spirit of 'The Fool.'

A Multifaceted Artistic Vision

Beyond music, Xak is a visual artist and storyteller, weaving rich narratives across multiple mediums. This interdisciplinary approach infuses his music with a depth and complexity that invites repeated listening and deeper exploration.

Join Xak Stahl on a sonic odyssey that challenges perceptions, touches hearts, and celebrates the transformative power of art. Each track is not just a song, but a world waiting to be discovered.

TheRealMaxAnthony Brand is under DARDEN PAF. Max Anthony is a prolific song writer & producer who specializes in entertainment, authenticity, creativity, & personal brand.

Welcome to the musical world of The William Altig Choir, where ancient wisdom meets contemporary sound.

Inspired by the teachings of the Lotus Sutra and infused with deep spiritual themes, my music blends the rich traditions of blues and folk with modern elements, creating a unique fusion that resonates with both the heart and soul.

I've been captivated by the Lotus Sutra's messages of compassion, wisdom, and transformation since my youth. It's a journey of self-discovery that has found its voice in my music. Each song is a reflection of my own spiritual awakening and a celebration of universal truths.

My style is characterized by emotive storytelling, powerful lyrics, and a commitment to exploring the depths of human experience. Featuring contemplative blues, acoustic slide guitar, saxophone melodies, and the harmonies of a gospel choir, my music reflects a quest for enlightenment and a better understanding of the self.

Join me on this musical journey. Together, we can explore the teachings of the Lotus Sutra, finding solace, hope, and a deeper connection to the world around us.

#SpiritualMusic  #LotusSutraMusic  #ContemplativeBlues  #BuddhistGospel #AcousticSlideGuitar  #GospelChoir  #Self-Discovery  #SpiritualAwakening  #Hope  #The_William_Altig_Choir

Bouncy songs/ still figuring things out / enjoy the bops and make sure you chase your passions over anything. Ill follow back if I see your follow 

My goal is to create bouncy songs and cause ripples in the firmament of the creativity that flows through my spirit and hopefully impact the universe as a whole. Thanks for following this far and I appreciate your taste in music. If u didn't, ily Always and forever - The 18th Letter .. peace God.

Europe's best independent music station based in Luxembourg! English speaking.

TGP MUSIC – The Hit Machine from Da Bronx 🔥🎶

We specialize in crafting high-quality, affordable demos for artists looking to bring their sound to life. From R&B, soul, hip-hop, and pop to country and gospel, we do it all! Whether you need a radio-ready banger or a smooth, soulful melody, TGP MUSIC delivers industry-level production at unbeatable prices.

🚀 Serious artists, let’s work! Get your next hit today.

📩 DM for inquiries | #TGPmusic #HitMachine #BronxSound

Kristen Brown is the author of the International #1 Best Selling book, "The Recovering People Pleaser - A Spiritual Guide to Reclaim Your True Worth and Attract the Love You Deserve."
Kristen is a spiritual and intuitive energy healer who focuses primarly on helping others build a solid relationship with self through healing unconscious blocks and limiting beliefs. 
Kristen's motto is: Heal your inner world, and your outer world will change with it!

Great art almost feels like magic—it opens our minds to brand new ideas, and teaches us to see ourselves and our world more clearly. Of course, behind all great art, there are artists. And that’s where the real magic happens…

As we go beneath the art itself to explore how different artists do what they do, we see glimpses of the sorts of creativity, resilience, and bravery that lead to the art that moves our world. And maybe we can learn to borrow some of that magic for our very own thinking.

Join professional musician Emily Merrell for conversations with artists of all kinds. Together, we examine the mysteries of our own experiences, our muses and fears, our gifts and foibles, our beliefs about the origins of creativity, and the secret magic we’ve discovered in our unique creative processes. 

Mediums include: studio art, graphic design, dance, cooking, illustration, creative writing, storytelling, comedy, music composition, music performance, film making, acting, production, fashion design, photography, and more.

Visit https://emilymerrellmusic.com/artifice-podcast/  for more information.

- Theme Song "As You Are" by Emily Merrell @emilymerrellmusic
- Illustration and Graphic Design by Sarah Keele @sarahkeeleart
- Photography by Jen Palmer @jenpalmerphoto
- HMU by Shawna Turner @shawnaturnerdesigns

Songwriting has been a lifelong passion for me, dating back to elementary school when I first began crafting stories, poems, and eventually lyrics. As a former drummer in various bands, I always relied on others to bring my words to life musically. However, after a long hiatus from drumming, I decided to take the leap and learn to compose music to accompany my lyrics. Through classes and dedication, I've embarked on a new journey, breathing fresh life into old lyrics and penning new ones. You'll find a mix of older and newer works here, for the lyrics. 

Music has been a part of me for as long as I can remember. One of my earliest memories is being completely entranced by 'The Little Drummer Boy' as a very young child. There was something about the rhythm and the melody that just captivated me. I must have played it a thousand times, wearing the record out, and from that moment on, I was hooked. I knew I wanted to be a drummer, and to create that magic for others. 

But I was too young then, and of course I couldn't afford a drum set just yet. So, I turned to writing as a way to express myself. As I mentioned above, I started with stories, then poems, and eventually, lyrics. I found that writing was not only a way to tap into my creativity, but also a way to process my emotions and experiences. 

As I grew older, my love for music only deepened. I realized that music has this incredible power to transport us to different times and places, to evoke emotions and memories that we thought were long forgotten. It's a universal language that can bring people together like nothing else can. 

For me, writing lyrics is a cathartic experience. It's a way for me to tap into my emotions, to process the world around me, and to create something that I hope will resonate with others. And when I hear my words come to life in a song, it's truly magical. It's a feeling that never gets old, and it's what keeps me coming back to music time and time again. 

I love many genres of music and artists of many genres. And if you listen to some of my songs, you will find that I like to make songs of different genres as well as mix different genres into each song. One of my all-time favorite bands is Evanescence, and I have made a lot of songs where I have tried my best to emulate that sound. 

Now, I have recently started experimenting with new sounds. I never heard of glitch beats before I took music classes, and now I'm fascinated with the sound, so I have been experimenting with glitch beats recently. 

I hope you enjoy some of my songs. And thanks so much to everyone who has been listening so far. I truly appreciate it. I welcome constructive feedback to help me grow as an artist, and I appreciate your support. ❤️

New tracks tagged #Vulnerability