Early Bird EDM: Pope’s debut

Sam Vander Forest

I think it’s safe to say that every group has that friend who knows about the best and newest music before anyone else, even sometimes the artist. They’re the friend that’s frequently vying for power of the speaker at the party, and rightfully so. That friend in my group is Alex McKinnon, and his emphasis is on EDM. You can check him out on Soundcloud at McKinnon82, and you won’t be disappointed. I’m constantly trying to keep up with his vast library, so why not spotlight some of the best up and coming EDM each week and get it out to all of Iowa State? So each week, look to the Daily mobile app for some of the best house, trap, and dubstep you’ve never heard before.

This week, the track and name to look out for is “Forever” by the UK’s own Pope. Legally named Ashley Pope, Pope is a London-born musician who seems to have many talents. Working as a DJ, singer-songwriter, musician and producer, Pope has released his debut single “Forever” this month and has made quite a splash.

The track’s style draws heavily from his classically trained musical parents and his jazz pianist grandfather, while uniquely fusing it with his support from DJs like Tiesto and Laidback Luke.

The piano, violin, synth and Pope’s vocals fuse perfectly in this debut single and the easy-to-learn lyrics will help it grow as an EDM anthem. Take a listen to Pope’s first single on the Soundcloud link below or on YouTube, and let it take away your winter blues as this blizzard sets in.