Portfolio

This portfolio consists of interviews and articles based on media, pop culture & music I have completed via The Line of Best Fit, The Knockturnal, Arts Management Magazine and HerCampusPace. 

The slow-burn rise of Julia Wolf | Interview

By the time I find Julia Wolf in the green room at Camden's KOKO, the chaos of load-in and an early fan queue is already underway.

She's calm, grounded and a quiet contrast to the storm brewing outside, just ahead of her support slot with PVRIS. The next evening, she’d be headlining her first London show at Oslo, already sold out.
In a string of milestones, the 31-year-old has had viral hit with “In My Room” and carried support slots with Artemas, Halsey, and PVRIS, and a newly ann...

Fletcher: "There’s so much beauty in being open – but I also felt dissected"

In the quiet before release day, Cari Fletcher sits with the rawest album of her career, and the question that’s followed her through it: Would you still love me if you really knew me?

The earthy smell of burning incense curls through the air in a dimly lit room, tucked away from the bustle of central London. Cari Fletcher sits across from me, trading stories about our New Jersey childhoods. It’s about a week out from album release day, a brief pause before the pressure returns, bef...

Ava Joe: "Music is never going to take anything from me or let me down or leave" | Interview

For years, SXSW has remained a springboard for breakout acts – among them one of Ava’s key inspirations, Amy Winehouse, who began gaining traction in the US after her 2007 debut in Austin, Texas.
There is a quiet significance, then, to Joe performing at the festival’s inaugural London event; soul-rooted, razor sharp, and right on time – Not just due to the legacy the event carries, but rather her sound, rooted in similar tones to Winehouse of old-school soul....

Daydreamers Is What Pop-Rock Has Been Missing — And Fans Are Listening - The Knockturnal

There’s something quietly powerful about what daydreamers is doing. Their music taps into an energy that’s been missing in modern pop, and it couldn’t be more welcome.

With an energy shift as the lights dimmed at London’s The Garage in Islington on April 17th, the crowd was as eclectic as the band’s setlist — from middle-aged men nodding along to teenagers screaming every lyric, even the unreleased ones they’d somehow memorized from Instagram videos or grainy videos.
The crowd was already buzzi...

Exclusive: Koyal Releases Sophomore Album "breathe in. breathe out" and Talks What’s Next - The Knockturnal

Formed by lead vocalist Pooja Prabakaran, guitarist/producer Noah Weinstein, and drummer Wallace, the trio began as a college basement collaboration that quickly evolved into the dynamic indie pop-rock band, Koyal.

The Atlanta-born and now LA-based group first came together while juggling college studies with their shared passion for music. Koyal released their debut album, Mountain City, back in 2021, laying the groundwork for their evolving sound. Now, we sat down with them ahead of the relea...

Leanna Firestone Talks 'Keeping Score,' Songwriting Secrets, and Embracing Her Inner Fangirl - The Knockturnal

Leanna Firestone is no stranger to storytelling, whether throughout her early days as a fanfiction writer or creating deeply personal lyrics, the 23-year-old singer-songwriter has always had a talent for narrating her words into something special. Her latest single, “Keeping Score,” tells the tale of getting revenge on an ex. However, on the track, the Nashville-based artist takes a break from autobiographical songwriting and embraces a playful and fictional story. 

We caught up with Leanna to...

Jonah Marais Exclusive Interview: Finding His Voice, Touring, and Creative Solo Journey - The Knockturnal

First capturing the hearts of thousands of fans through live streams from his bedroom in 2016, Jonah Marais’ humble beginnings in Stillwater, Minnesota, led him to a whirlwind career as a co-founder and member of the renowned and beloved boyband Why Don’t We.

The band achieved global success spanning the six years they spent touring worldwide and reaching milestones such as RIAA Platinum-certified singles and five RIAA Gold-certified singles… Did I mention with over 8 billion streams?
Well know...

Conversation with Ben Ellis: From Zoom Calls to Selling Out His First Tour in Under a Minute - The Knockturnal

It is absolutely wild to believe how much can change within a year. I thought about our interview with Ben Ellis last year on a Zoom call, talking about the release of his very first EP, The Ed’s House.  Back then, he was just starting to make his mark, full of excitement and nerves about what lay ahead.

Fast forward to less than a year later, and after recently moving abroad, I had the chance to meet Ben in person before his set at the iconic Camden Roundhouse in London. He was supporting Brit...

The GRAMMY Museum Presents: An Exclusive Night with Julius Rodriguez - The Knockturnal

Presented by The GRAMMY Museum, The Knockturnal was invited to an exclusive conversation with musician Julius Rodriguez in honor of his latest body of work, Evergreen.

Rodriguez engaged in a lively discussion with journalist and producer Angélika Beener, sharing insights and stories behind his music.
When opening up about his thoughts on categories and genre identity within music, Rodriguez touched on his beliefs about creating music: “There’s no real reason for it, at least in the creation and...

Reflecting on Niall Horan's Sold-Out Madison Square Garden Performance: A Full Circle Moment - The Knockturnal

With his most powerful vocals and commanding stage presence to date, Niall Horan delivered an unforgettable performance at Madison Square Garden, showcasing his growth and unwavering dedication to his craft and fans as an artist.

Performing two back-to-back headlining shows at the world’s most famous arena, the Irish singer-songwriter is not unfamiliar with the iconic arena. Horan played at the venue back in 2012 alongside his band members in One Direction. Since the disbandment, Niall has prov...

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW with Giant Rooks: "We've got to play each show as if it were our last."

Hailing from Germany, Giant Rooks have cemented themselves as a powerhouse in the German indie-rock scene and beyond. Renowned for their electrifying performances and captivating collaborations, the band’s rise has captured the hearts of millions.

Giant Rooks’ fanbase has undoubtedly expanded globally within the past few years. Their music resonates deeply with audiences across the globe, connecting with listeners from all walks of life in Germany and beyond.

Comprised of Frederik Rabe (vocals

Box Office Week: Maggie Rogers Sells Out "Don't Forget Me" Album Release Show in NYC

“Box Office Week” provided fans with the exclusive chance to secure tickets for both the special shows and the upcoming second leg of her tour, aptly titled “The Don’t Forget Me Tour, Part II.” This leg will feature Rogers headlining her first arena shows, including the iconic Madison Square Garden in NYC, slated for October 9th.

“On the last album, Surrender, I decided to go old school and sell tickets in person in an effort to reduce fees, combat bots, and get tickets directly into the hands

Olivia Rodrigo's GUTS Tour: Celebrating Girlhood at MSG with AMEX

In the midst of selling out four nights at the world’s most famous arena, Madison Square Garden, Olivia Rodrigo has cemented her status as a pop rockstar, lifting the spirits of thousands of dedicated fans in attendance.

The Knockturnal scored a chance to experience the show and explore The Guts World Tour Bus firsthand in Herald Square before Olivia rocked the stage just a few hours later.

In partnership with American Express, Olivia and the team craft a memorable and one-of-a-kind fan experi

Maybe Life is Good: Exclusive Interview with Em Beihold

Amidst the multitude of thousands of musicians carving their paths in the music industry, Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter Em Beihold emerges as a shimmer of authenticity.

With her soul-baring lyrics and unwavering commitment to mental health advocacy, she captivates listeners with her raw honesty and vulnerability, setting herself apart amidst the crowded landscape of music.

Em’s musical journey completely transformed after the release of her single “Numb Little Bug” in 2022, which racked

Redefining the Age of 17: Gen-Z R&B Artist Obai Drops Debut EP 'svnteen'

The Knockturnal interviewed the Phoenix, Arizona native in advance of releasing his debut EP with Geffen Records, svnteen. From a young age, the singer-songwriter was surrounded by music from a young age. Alongside listening to Sudanese, R&B, and pop music, Obai is dedicated to mastering his craft as a musician and sharing his talents with the world.

To Obai, music is a simultaneous therapeutic vessel and safe space, where he can channel his energy and thoughts into song. Inspired by the likes

ONE TO WATCH: Exclusive Interview with Singer-Songwriter Ben Ellis

Born and raised in Wales, independent artist and singer-songwriter Ben Ellis is most certainly one to watch.

One December afternoon in the vibrant backdrop of New York City, I virtually connected with Ben through Zoom while he comfortably settled in his residence in Wales. My initial introduction to Ben had occurred on TikTok, where I stumbled upon his talent. To my astonishment, I later discovered that Ben operates as a fully independent artist, not bound by any record label.

Growing up with

Olivia Rodrigo, Sabrina Carpenter, SZA and Cher Light Up Z100’s 2023 Jingle Ball

With performances from an impressive roster including Olivia Rodrigo, SZA, Sabrina Carpenter, Cher, and more, iHeartRadio’s Z100 Jingle Ball was one for the books.

Jingle Ball consisted of outstanding performances and pop-up presenters such as Jared Leto, Andy Cohen, Tate McRae, and more!

Fans were thrilled to see the final performer Olivia Rodrigo live, as her sophomore album GUTS has reached the highest of heights on the charts this year. Rodrigo performed her global hits, including “vampire

Dolby Atmos Unleashes Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé

Over the weekend, The Knockturnal got the amazing chance to watch a special screening of Beyoncé’s latest film, “Queen Bey’s Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé.

The concert film takes you on a journey through Beyoncé’s big global tour, her childhood, what inspires her, and, of course, her deep connection with her fans, known as the Hive.

The film gives viewers insights into Beyonce’s global tour, her childhood, her inspirations, and, of course, Queen Bey’s love for the Hive. It gave us a real look

Nightly Lights Up NYC: A Recap of the 'Wear Your Heart Out' Tour at Racket

On a brisk Wednesday night, November 8th, the lively heart of Chelsea was filled with anticipation. Excited fans, numbering in the hundreds, gathered outside Racket, one of NYC’s newest venues. The reason for their enthusiasm? The alternative-pop trio Nightly was in town, headlining two shows for their “Wear Your Heart Out” tour.

Sharing and supporting the stage with Nightly was the talented Nashville-based singer-songwriter Knox and the Brooklyn-based band Young Rising Sons.

Knox treated the

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Sarcastic Sounds on 'Haunt You Forever'

Embarking on a musical journey, Sarcastic Sounds has evolved from a producer and songwriter to a captivating performer, blending vulnerable lyrics with infectious pop melodies that resonate with audiences.

Sarcastic Sounds, AKA Jeremy Fedryk, initially made his mark as a producer and songwriter. His talent and creative flair quickly caught the attention of millions, leading him to collaborate with prominent acts such as Alec Benjamin, Arden Jones, Powfu, and the unforgettable track “Daylight” b

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Will Linley Backstage at the Mercury Lounge

On a recent Wednesday afternoon in October, singer-songwriter Will Linley sits backstage at the Mercury Lounge on the Lower East Side, an iconic indie venue due to its fostering of upcoming artists, including an impressive roster of beloved musicians such as Chris Martin and Lady Gaga. As we chatted in the teeny tiny room in the basement of the venue, I couldn’t help but notice the stickers of bands who have performed here in the past along the walls. With soundcheck complete, fans lining at the

Exclusive Interview with Almondmilkhunni: Debut Album 'Enjoy the Ride', Independent Artistry and Fanbase Community

The Knockturnal caught up with the New Jersey native to discuss everything related to their debut album, ‘Enjoy the Ride,’ their relationship with fans, and their creative processes.

Almondmilkhunni (aka Brandy Schwechler) studied political science and pre-law before pursuing her passion for music. The artists’ hyper-pop and R&B-infused music have carried a widespread impact across social media and streaming platforms. Almondmilkhunni’s honest lyricism and vulnerability have attracted a communi

An Exclusive Interview with Knox and His Latest Single 'Not The 1975'

Based in Nashville, Tennessee, Knox is a talented singer-songwriter rapidly ascending within the music industry. Within the last year and a half, he has signed to Atlantic Records and built a strong fanbase via TikTok, with one of his videos featuring his hit track “Sneakers” reaching nearly 2 million views overnight. “Sneakers” now has over 23 million streams across streaming platforms.

The Knockturnal had a chance to interview Knox, where we delved into his creative process for his latest sin

New Rules: An Exclusive Interview on Artistic Evolution, Fan Engagement, & Musical Journey

Formed in 2019, comprising musicians Alec McGarry, Nathan Lambert, and Ryan Meaney began their musical journey as New Rules. Within the last four years, the band’s shared passion and dedication to music has made them the artist to watch and driven them to the spotlight, leaving audiences, fans, and perhaps locals walking on the streets of London where they’ve busked amazed and intrigued.

The trio had initially met online before meeting in London to begin their musical journey as they introduced
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