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Monday, August 26, 2024

Moving Out of Town: The Music Video World 🌎 Premiere!

Moving Out of Town: The Music Video World 🌎 Premiere!

We cordially invite YOU to come set your reminder now to join us for the music video world premiere of our LGBTQ+ Pride 🏳️‍🌈 anthem Moving Out of Town! Summer might be ending but honey we are queer all year! 🦄 🏳️‍⚧️

Our release makes its big hot 🔥 shot debut this New Music Friday on August 30th. Hoyt, Nick, and I will be live in the chat room at 1 PM. So join us and let's watch the premiere together! 

Come taste the rainbow! 🌈 - 🍬🍎🟦


The official music video for Moving Out of Town (Matt Pop Radio Mix) by Candy Apple Blue featuring Nick Bramlett. In the enduring tradition of gay anthems, our LGBTQ+ Pride Month 🏳️‍🌈 banger "Moving Out of Town" sits right up there with the very best of them. 🌈 🦄 Taken from the forthcoming Candy Apple Blue album, Breakthrough! © & ℗ 2024 Mrix Muzik Records ©2024 A Fading Brunette™ Film.

"Moving Out of Town" is a dance-pop song by Candy Apple Blue about the LGBTQ+ experience of moving to big cities to find love, acceptance, and live authentically. The song's writers, Hoyt and Carly, drew from their own experiences, having moved to New York City themselves. They wanted to write about this experience in a universal way. The song has a strong message of gay empowerment.

Written and recorded by Candy Apple Blue
https://allmylinks.com/candyappleblue

Mixed, mastered, and produced by Matt Pop
https://allmylinks.com/mattpopofficial

Lead and background vocals by Nick Bramlett
https://www.facebook.com/TheNickBramlett

Additional background vocals by Carly Emerick

Electric guitars performed by Micah Blakeslee
https://linktr.ee/MicahBlakeslee

Hand-drawn cover art illustration by Magenta Arts:
https://magentaillustration.carrd.co/

A Fading Brunette™ Film, LLC.
Carly Emerick produced, filmed, and edited the music video.
Fading Brunette™ Films camera & lighting assistants: Bradley Schmidt, Betty Stolar, Shannon McGill, and Hoyt Emerick

Music video theme: A 1980s aerobics-styled short focusing on a high-spirited fitness group and Nick Bramlett's performance of the song.

Starring the "Candy Apple Blue Crew": Nick Bramlett, Hoyt Emerick, Carly Emerick, Ross Kinsey, Whitney Love, Marilynn Fuchsia Raye Phoenix, Matthew Chance, Miley Rheagan Michaels, J.R. Daniels, Samuel Eugene, Shannon McGill, Haley Colaizzi, Marcy McKenney, and Darin Mullins

Filmed at Art & Style Dance Studio in Pittsburgh, PA.
https://www.artandstyledancestudio.com/

Moving Out of Town is dedicated to both Matthew Shepard (1976–1998) and Brandon Teena (1972–1993) and the thousands of others like them who never made it out of town alive because of homophobia, transphobia, and hate.

Lyrics

"Moving Out of Town"
©2024 MRIX MUZIK (ASCAP)
All Rights Reserved. Words & Music by
Carly Emerick and Hoyt Emerick

Verse 1:
Lately, all I think about is leaving
This town has torn me inside out, I'm bleedin'

Lead In:
I'm gonna find my tribe
I'm gonna get out alive
Nothing or no one can make me stick around

Chorus:
I'm movin' out of town, in search of safer ground
Movin' out of town, where allies can be found

Verse 2:
Breakout when the moment's right you'll know it
You can live your life with pride and own it

Lead In 2:
I know I'm born this way
Yas queen! Today we slay!
Riding rainbows that lift me off the ground

Chorus:
I'm movin' out of town, in search of safer ground
Movin' out of town, where allies can be found
I'm movin' out of town, where love is all around
Movin' out of town, it’s time to claim my crown

(Guitar Solo) Yeah!

Post Chorus:
(He's really movin') Moving out of town!

Spoken Breakdown:
I've been living here too long where I don't belong
And I’m not gonna stay!

Lead In:
I'm gonna find my tribe
I'm gonna get out alive
Flying unicorns that lift me off the ground

Last Chorus:
I'm movin' out of town, where love is all around
Movin' out of town, it’s time to claim my crown

I’m moving out of, moving out of town
Moving out of, moving out of town
I’m moving out of, moving out of town
Moving out of, moving out of town
I’m moving out of town
(He's really movin') Moving out of town!

The lyrics here are protected by copyright © under the law and are exclusively owned by Carly Emerick and Hoyt Emerick of Mrix Muzik Publishing.

#LGBTQ #dancepop #aerobics #musicvideo #gay #banger #anthem #LGBT

It is with great PRIDE 🏳️‍🌈 that we deliver to you our most anticipated release of the year. In the enduring magic of gay anthems, our forthcoming single "Moving Out of Town" sits right up there with the best of them! (i.e. "I Am What I Am", "You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)", "It's Raining Men", "Smalltown Boy", "I Will Survive", "Y.M.C.A", "Dancing Queen", "Believe", "I'm Coming Out", and "Born This Way")


Saturday, August 24, 2024

Talking with Hands

Hoyt Emerick (of Candy Apple Blue) and Nick Bramlett (2024)
Hoyt Emerick (of Candy Apple Blue) and Nick Bramlett (2024)

Hoyt and Nick discuss the next scene in the music video shoot for Moving Out of Town. 🎥🎬

Saturday, August 17, 2024

We work hard for the money! 💲o hard for it honey!

Candy Apple Blue Nick Bramlett Moving Out of Town (2024)
Carly Emerick (right), Nick Bramlett (center), Hoyt Emerick (right)
Candy Apple Blue (2024)

Candy Apple Blue Nick Bramlett (2024) Moving Out of Town
Carly Emerick (right), Nick Bramlett (center), Hoyt Emerick (right)
Candy Apple Blue (2024)

We've got the eye of the tiger! 🐅 
It's the thrill of the fight! Risin' up to the challenge of our rival! 
🍬🍎🟦 on the prowl!

We work hard for the money!
💲o hard for it honey!
We work hard for the money so you better treat us right! 🍬🍎🟦

Tuesday, August 6, 2024

Press Release: Moving Out of Town

 

Candy Apple Blue Moving Out of Town Matt Pop
Candy Apple Blue - Moving Out of Town (Official Cover Art)


Press Release: "Moving Out of Town"
3-Track Remix EP + Official Cover Art Reveal

It is with great PRIDE 🏳️‍🌈 that we deliver to you our most anticipated release of the year. In the enduring tradition of gay anthems, our forthcoming single "Moving Out of Town" sits right up there with the best of them! (i.e. "I Am What I Am", "You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)", "It's Raining Men", "Smalltown Boy", "I Will Survive", "Y.M.C.A", "Dancing Queen", "Believe", "I'm Coming Out", and "Born This Way")

Hoyt and I poured our musical hearts into this composition. It tells our personal story of how we left our small town and moved to New York City to live our lives authentically. This song has been 30 years in the making and is like a page torn out of our diary. We hope its universal message of empowerment will help to lift the spirits of the LGBTQ+ community for years to come.

The lead vocals are sung passionately by Nick Bramlett. There are "Divine" influences here at play. The exciting rock guitars performed by Micah Blakeslee are simply out of this world! Matt Pop's outstanding music production is top-notch! His work here is worthy of an award for its sheer audio excellence. 🏆 The glorious cover art was hand-drawn with great care and illustrated by the magical Magenta Soulstar. We all worked hard as a team to make this extraordinary release possible. 

Moving Out of Town is dedicated to both Matthew Shepard (1976-1998) and Brandon Teena (1972-1993) and the thousands of others like them who never did make it out of town alive because of homophobia, transphobia, and hate.

Sincerely, Carly xoxo

Release Date: August 30th, 2024 (New Music Friday)

Track Listing:
Track 1: Moving Out of Town (Matt Pop Radio Mix) 3:34
Track 2: Moving Out of Town (Matt Pop's Riding Rainbows Club Mix) 6:03
Track 3: Moving Out of Town (Matt Pop Instrumental Mix) 3:34

℗2024 Mrix Muzik Records ©2024 Mrix Muzik

Candy Apple Blue Moving Out of Town Unicorn Poster
Candy Apple Blue - Moving Out of Town (Poster)


Candy Apple Blue Moving Out of Town Merch T-Shirts Posters
We have "Moving Out of Town" merch now available!

BUY MERCH!

Moving Out of Town (Merch from TeePublic):

Moving Out of Town (High-Quality 18" x 24" Poster):

Moving Out of Town (High-Quality White T-Shirt):

Friday, August 2, 2024

Carly's Angel

 

Carly Emerick of Candy Apple Blue (Age 30)
Carly Emerick of Candy Apple Blue (Age 30)

The year was 2003. I was 30 years old and was excited to see Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle on the big screen! People would often tell me I looked like Cameron Diaz back then. It was a great film and a great time in my life. 

~ Big love, Carly's Angel

Thursday, June 27, 2024

Candy Apple Blue and Nick Bramlett

Candy Apple Blue Nick Bramlett "Candy Apple Blue" Nick Bramlett
Candy Apple Blue & Nick Bramlett

"When Nick, Hoyt, and I combine our talents, we make music that is beyond anything we could create alone. Our superpower as a musical trio is our ability to evoke a strong emotional connection with our listeners through the power of song." ~ Carly

Tuesday, June 11, 2024

A Photo Flashback ⚡ from 1992

Carly Emerick of Candy Apple Blue (1992)
Carly Emerick of Candy Apple Blue (1992)

 A photo flashback ⚡ from 1992 when Carly of Candy Apple Blue was 20 years old. This fringe black leather jacket was the envy of many.

Saturday, June 8, 2024

🏳️‍🌈 HAPPY PRIDE MONTH! 🏳️‍🌈

Hoyt Emerick & Antonio Licon 2013
Hoyt Emerick & Antonio Licon 2013

Here's Candy Apple Blue's Hoyt Emerick with one of his besties Antonio Licon (2013). Antonio starred in the music video for "It Happens All the Time".

Watch here: It Happens All the Time (Official Music Video)



Monday, June 3, 2024

Nick Bramlett Has Been Our Main Go-to Vocalist for 10 Years Now!

Nick Bramlett and Candy Apple Blue (2015)
Nick Bramlett & Candy Apple Blue (2015)

 FLASHBACK ⚡ to January 1st, 2015 as Nick, Hoyt, and I celebrate the new year! Nick has been our main go-to vocalist for 10 years now. It's not by coincidence that our biggest music releases feature him as the lead vocalist. He's a passionate vocalist who puts his heart into the material we compose for him.  

💘🎤 ~ Carly  #dreamteam 

Tuesday, May 28, 2024

Feeling Superfly in My Polyester Shirt!

Hoyt Emerick Candy Apple Blue Songwriter
Hoyt Emerick of Candy Apple Blue

 Feeling superfly in my polyester shirt! ~ Hoyt 

Friday, May 24, 2024

August 1993

WDVE Rocks Hoyt of Candy Apple Blue (1993)
Hoyt Emerick of Candy Apple Blue (1993) WDVE Rocks

We've always been music lovers and music makers. The concert line-up for August 1993 makes me want to return in a time machine. I love all of these artists! I'm in front of Pittsburgh's concert banner for a local radio station called 102.5 WDVE Rocks. Do you guys remember any of these bands? ~ Hoyt 🍬🍎🟦

Wednesday, May 8, 2024

We Are Independent Warriors of the Synth-Pop Music Scene

Candy Apple Blue Hoyt Emerick Synth-Pop
Hoyt Emerick of Candy Apple Blue

 AI algorithms cannot replace the human heart that goes into our art. The current-day Crucifixion of all indie artists is blasphemous. Our work is just as important, if not more valuable, than the music the major labels release. We are independent warriors of the synth-pop music scene. We are Candy Apple Blue. 🍬🍎🟦

Tuesday, May 7, 2024

The Vibe Was Duran Duran (Photo)

Hoyt Emerick 1989 of Candy Apple Blue
Hoyt Emerick of Candy Apple Blue (1989)

 The year was 1989 and the vibe was Duran Duran. ~ Hoyt

Saturday, May 4, 2024

Those New Wave Days!

Hoyt Emerick of Candy Apple Blue new wave gothic rock
Hoyt Emerick of Candy Apple Blue (Early 90s)

In the early 1990s, I was a huge fan of gothic rock. Bands like The Cure, Depeche Mode, Siouxsie and the Banshees, and Gene Loves Jezebel resonated with me. (They still do, actually.) My happy summer song was 1987's Black's "It's a Wonderful Life." 

This pic makes me feel nostalgic for those "new wave" days. ~ Hoyt

Friday, May 3, 2024

Have You Heard? by Blake Donley

Candy Apple Blue The Inertia Case
The Inertia Case became Candy Apple Blue

Have You Heard? by Blake Donley

(Reprinted by the kind courtesy of Apocalypse Music News)

In the mid-90s, a sibling duo from Pittsburgh was "Moving Out of Town" to the Big Apple. Like countless aspiring musicians before them, they saw boundless opportunity in the city that never sleeps. It was there that Carly and Hoyt Emerick began defining their style, crafting their music, and clubbing...lots of clubbing. With influences like Aimee Mann, Boy George, Pete Burns, and David Bowie, they set out to conjure catchy pop-sensible synthwave music for the new millennium.

Eventually, they settled in Astoria, a neighborhood in Queens. Armed with their trusty CrossWave synthesizer the Ensoniq SQ-80, the duo began to find their footing as a band. In those early days, Carly admits, "We both knew that we couldn't really sing our way out of a wet brown paper bag." They placed an ad in The Village Voice for a vocalist to breathe life into their sonic creations. Elton Lin (currently of Notorious MSG) answered, they hit it off, and he assumed the lead singer duties. As The Inertia Case, the trio wrote, recorded, and performed in the NYC clubs. Carly laments, "I look back on these days with so much fondness. If only we had the deep pockets of a major record label behind us. I feel confident that we could have made it big time."

Then 9/11 happened. Carly confesses, "After 9/11 we moved back home because we truly thought that the world was coming to an end. We lived in NYC when that occurred, and it affected the people who lived in Manhattan the most. It was a very scary time." A seven-year hiatus ensued. But in their late 30s, they both felt the creative itch of those halcyon days. Carly says, "Our creative souls needed an outlet."

Being used to leaning on Elton Lin for vocals, the duo struggled to get back into the swing. They reincarnated themselves as Candy Apple Blue and released their first single "Graveyard" in 2010. After the reboot, they began putting out new synthwave and dance-pop music reminiscent of the golden age of new wave but with their own fresh and fantastic twist. Eventually, they put out a pair of full-length albums Powers Activate and Second Sight collaborating with singer Nick Bramlett. In the process, they became the house band for YouTube superstar TechMoan.

Their latest project looks to be the most ambitious of their career: "Moving Out of Town." Carly describes it this way, "I'd say it has a classic disco-rock sound—the kind that was big in the late 70s and early 80s. It was influenced by songs like "Hot Stuff" by Donna Summer, "I Was Made for Loving You" by KISS, and "Call Me" by Blondie. We also threw a pinch of 90s Europop in there for good measure. (Think "Be My Lover" by La Bouche.)" They hope to release just in time for Pride month. Carly goes on to say, "The song is about what a lot of us LGBTQ+ Gen X'ers did. We moved to big cities to find acceptance and get the chance to live our lives authentically. That's what Hoyt and I did." They began composing the ditty way back in 1997 in NYC; it's a song 27 years (and multiple rewrites) in the making. 

Personally, I've been following the band ever since I caught their music on a TechMoan HiFi review video back in 2018. As a fellow Gen X'er, I love the memories their synth-driven pop evokes. They are SUCH a fun band to turn up to 11 on my preposterous Pioneer stereo system. As a fellow creative soul, I love finding other artists of my vintage still making fantastic art—it gives me tremendous hope and inspiration! As a fellow music lover, it was a BLAST to collaborate with them on their video for "Graphic Equalizer" (see video for my Pioneer HiFi gear cameos). If you are looking for new synthwave pop tunes done with flair and style, check out Candy Apple Blue!


[Blake Donley wrote this article about us and sent it out in his email-based subscription newsletter. He let us reproduce it here (by kind permission) so that it could be read by people who are not subscribed to the Apocalypse Music News. "Subscribe to the newsletter The Man doesn't want you to read."]



Wednesday, April 24, 2024

I Thought I Had Really Made It!

Hoyt Emerick of Candy Apple Blue (Age 18)
Hoyt Emerick of Candy Apple Blue (Age 18)

 Here is a picture of me in the early 1990s when I was eighteen years old and living in my first apartment in Shadyside on Fifth Avenue in Pittsburgh. At the time, I thought I had really made it by moving to the big city of Pittsburgh! ~ Hoyt 

Saturday, April 20, 2024

Spice Girl Carly

carly emerick candy apple blue
Spice Girl Carly (1997)

What can I say? The year was 1997, and I was going through a "Spice Girls" phase. I mean, who wasn't? I had the Spice Girls CD and I even had a Spice Girls-themed birthday party. (kidding) That "red-eye" effect is totally giving me 35mm flash camera realness! How 90s!

~ Carly  🍬🍎🟦

Tuesday, April 16, 2024

The Awakening of Candy Apple Blue! Carly & Nick Unpack the Enduring Magic of the Song.


Dive into Episode 005 of Catching Up with Candy Apple Blue where Carly and Nick unpack the enduring magic of their song "Awakening". A song that marked a pivotal point for the band. 8 years on it's still a fan favorite and remains their biggest track on Spotify.  Awakening is cherished by fans for its timeless and resonant quality.

Catching Up with Candy Apple Blue 🍬🍎🟦
A "Behind the Music" Podcast Video Series 
Episode: 005 - "Awakening"

Key Points of Interest:

• "Awakening" by Candy Apple Blue & Juno Dreams, released 8 years ago, remains their biggest track on Spotify, demonstrating the longevity and impact of the song.

• The song is cherished by fans for its timeless and resonant quality, highlighting the enduring power of music that connects with its listeners.

• The discussion between Carly and Nick showcases how a single song can serve as a transformative moment in a band's journey, shaping their narrative and making a real impact.


Watch All Episodes of Catching Up with Candy Apple Blue here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpTCA0VAOQqT-nSDtKhdaZw_lMU4It6Rs

Thursday, April 11, 2024

Surviving a Flop: The Comeback of Candy Apple Blue 🍬🍎🟦 How the Duo Dodged a Bullet.


Surviving a Flop: The Comeback of Candy Apple Blue 🍬🍎🟦 How the Duo Dodged a Bullet. 

Carly of Candy Apple Blue shares the band's tough journey of overcoming a major setback with a disappointing flop single to collaborating with Espen Kraft on their indie hit song "It Happens All the Time." Influenced by Pet Shop Boys, their new single had revitalized their status in the synth-pop music scene. They were once again everybody's favorite "darlings of synth-pop". Tune in for an inside look at how the duo dodged a bullet. Don't miss this tale of resilience and artistic reinvention!

Catching Up with Candy Apple Blue 
A "Behind the Music" Podcast Video Series 🍬🍎🟦
Episode: 004 - "It Happens All the Time"

Key Points of Interest:

• Collaborating with Espen Kraft from Norway helped Carly and Hoyt from Candy Apple Blue regain their status in the synth-pop scene after hitting a rough patch. 

• They didn't let a flop single dampen their spirits. They quickly got back up, dusted themselves off, and returned to work on their craft.  

• Their new song "It Happens All the Time" was influenced by Pet Shop Boys, showcasing the impact of how artist inspirations put them back on track.

The success of their album "Second Sight" demonstrates the resilience and creativity of artists in navigating challenges in the indie music industry. 

Watch all episodes here:
Catching Up with Candy Apple Blue

#SynthPopRevival #bouncingback


Tuesday, April 9, 2024

Discover How Vocal Struggles Impacted the Duo’s Single Release in 2018 during a Pivotal Time 🍬🍎🟦


A "Behind the Music" Podcast Video Series 
Episode: 003 - "No Good Together"

In 2018, Candy Apple Blue struggled vocally on a song titled "No Good Together" originally slated for their album Second Sight. After their main vocalist Nick Bramlett took a break, the duo faced new challenges. Despite their best efforts, the release failed, leading them to urgently search for a new vocalist. 

In this episode, discover how vocal struggles impacted the duo's single release in 2018. The search for a new vocalist becomes urgent after the disappointing results. Tune in to uncover the challenges and decisions faced by Candy Apple Blue during this pivotal time.

Key Points of Interest:
• A main vocalist taking a break can significantly impact the creative process and sound of a band.
• Struggling vocally on a song can indicate a need for a change in approach or personnel.
• Even established musicians can face failures that prompt the need for urgent changes to their lineup.

Watch all episodes here:
Catching Up with Candy Apple Blue

Monday, April 8, 2024

Resurrecting the Sound: Carly's Musical Journey with Candy Apple Blue (Episode: 002)


A "Behind the Music" Podcast Video Series 
Episode: 002 - "Graveyard"

Dive into Episode 002 of Catching Up with Candy Apple Blue where Carly opens up about their debut single "Graveyard," their unique sound inspired by legends like Kim Wilde & Debbie Harry, and their musical journey after a break. Tune in to hear how the duo re-emerged in their late 30s, rekindling their passion for music-making. 🎤✨

Key Points of Interest:
• Candy Apple Blue draws inspiration from artists like Kim Wilde and Debbie Harry for their music, blending punk and dance-pop elements in their signature sound.
• The band took a 7-year-long hiatus and returned to music-making in their late 30s, finding enjoyment in crafting songs and solidifying their identity as a band.
• Carly talks about their first single "Graveyard" released in 2010, showcasing the band's evolution and growth over the years.

Watch all episodes here:

Thursday, April 4, 2024

Catching Up with Candy Apple Blue: Episode: 001

 


A "Behind the Music" Podcast Video Series 
Episode: 001 - "Mad About You"

Songwriter Carly Emerick talks about composing "Mad About You".

Get behind the music! "Mad About You" took a dark turn during the songwriting process. "It's not really a love song. It's a song about obsession." - Carly Emerick 

Join songwriters & bandmates Carly and Hoyt Emerick as they go behind the scenes. In each episode, they'll share their craft of composing and tell you never-before-heard stories about their music. To keep things interesting, the duo will be sharing these podcasts as visual stories to help bring more focus to their back music catalog.


Watch all episodes here: 
Catching Up with Candy Apple Blue


>

Tuesday, March 26, 2024

Behind the Music: "Moving Out of Town"

Candy Apple Blue Unreleased Demo Version

Behind the Music: "Moving Out of Town"

A few of our listeners have asked us what sound they can expect from our forthcoming summer pride anthem Moving Out of Town. 

If I had to best describe it, I'd say it has a classic disco-rock sound. The kind that was big in the late 70s and early 80s. It was influenced by songs like Hot Stuff by Donner Summer, I Was Made for Loving You by Kiss, and Call Me by Blondie. We also threw a pinch of 90s Europop in there for good measure. (Think "Be My Lover" by La Bouche.)

The song is about what a lot of us LGBTQ+ Gen Ex'ers did. We moved to big cities to find acceptance and get the chance to live our lives authentically. That's what Hoyt and I did. We packed our bags and moved to New York City! (The Big Apple!) We wanted to write about that experience in a universal way.

Moving Out of Town is a song that I started composing back in 1997. Hoyt and I picked it back up again in 2014 and officially demoed it. However, thank god we had the good sense to not release it. Admittedly, we couldn't quite deliver what the song called for vocally speaking. 

This time around we have Nick Bramlett on board to deliver the goods! Not to mention our trusted go-to guitarist, Micah Blakeslee, who gave our dance song some much-needed rock edge. 

After 27 years and a few re-writes later; this song will finally see the light of day. The timing feels right!

Big love, Carly 🍬🍎🟦

Monday, March 25, 2024

We Are The Dreamers. We Are the Music Makers.

Candy Apple Blue We Are The Dreamers
"We are the dreamers. We are the music makers."

"We are the dreamers. We are the music makers. When talented artists come together through the power of song, magical things can happen. We don't take our listeners for granted. You guys deserve only the best. When good music comes in through your ears, it never leaves your soul. We aim to make music that is soul-stirring, uplifting, and joyful." ~ Carly 🍬🍎🟦

Saturday, March 23, 2024

I Wanna Party (Matt Pop Radio Edit)

I Wanna Party Matt Pop Radio Edit Candy Apple Blue
Candy Apple Blue - I Wanna Party (Matt Pop Radio Edit)

There is a current trend in pop music to keep the duration of a song around the 3-minute mark. Admittedly, we might have been over-ambitious with our 4-minute and 10-second single mix of I Wanna Party. 🥳

After its release, a few people mentioned that while they loved our new song, they felt the track was too long.

Matt Pop initially tried to get the edit down to 3 minutes, even declaring that "cuts had to be made". However, we championed for a longer single version. Our song had so many important elements that we didn't want to see get axed. 🪓 (For instance; we have a dance beat intro, a rap, a guitar solo, a vocal breakdown, and additional ad-libs in the last chorus.)

Ultimately, it's always our end goal to make our listeners happy. At heart, we are people pleasers. So, we have decided to officially release the Matt Pop Radio Edit of I Wanna Party! 🎉

This new radio-ready mix feels more energetic and times in at only 3:22. It moves along quickly while keeping the necessary elements intact. 

I Wanna Party (Matt Pop Radio Edit) will be released simultaneously with an official lyric video on April 5th, 2024.

Hype Sticker I Wanna Party Matt Pop Candy Apple Blue
I Wanna Party (Hype Sticker)


Friday, March 22, 2024

Friday, March 8, 2024

I Wanna Party 🥳 ft. Nick Bramlett (Matt Pop Mix) Official Music Video


The official music video for I Wanna Party (Matt Pop Mix) by Candy Apple Blue featuring Nick Bramlett. In the great tradition of party anthems, I Wanna Party sits right up there with the very best of these bangers. We energetically composed and carefully crafted what we feel is the perfect pop song. Taken from the forthcoming Candy Apple Blue album, Breakthrough. © & ℗ 2024 Mrix Muzik Records ©2024 A Fading Brunette™ Film.

Artist: Candy Apple Blue
Release Title: I Wanna Party
Record Label: Mrix Muzik Records
Release Date: March 8th, 2024
Publisher: Mrix Muzik
ISRC: US-CGH-24-86006
Composers: Carly Emerick; Hoyt Emerick
Barcode: 198500118551
P Line: Mrix Muzik Records
Catalog Number: MXMK-496

Stream or download "I Wanna Party (Matt Pop Mix)" here: https://album.link/us/i/1728746519

Written and recorded by Candy Apple Blue

Mixed, mastered, and produced by Matt Pop

Lead and background vocals by Nick Bramlett

Background vocals by Magenta Soulstar

Electric guitars performed by Micah Blakeslee

Additional background vocals by Carly Emerick 
Rap by Hoyt Emerick (Using the Sennheiser MD 421)

A Fading Brunette™ Film, LLC.
The music video was produced, filmed, and edited by Carly Emerick.
Fading Brunette™ Films Camera Assistants: Bradley Schmidt and Hoyt Emerick

Music video theme: An artistic behind the scenes short focusing on the band in the recording studio. For the first time in our film-making history, we made a conscious effort to not break the "fourth wall". The intro is a bit of a nod to Eddie Murphy's 1985 Party All the Time music video.
 
Filmed at Just-Records Recording Studio. Big shout-out to Dan for being so tech-savvy.
 
Lyrics 

"I Wanna Party"
©2024 All Rights Reserved.
Words & Music by Carly Emerick and Hoyt Emerick

Verse 1:
Hey bartendress, pour me another drink
I wanna get this party started like Pink
I wanna move and shake, give my mind a break
Turn up the music let my body escape

Lead In 1:
We can go all night (all night, all night)
Pulsing rhythmic light (rhythmic light)
B-Y-O-B Bring your own body
P-A-R-T-Y don't you dance with me

Chorus: 
I-I-I wanna party
I wanna celebrate all night long (all night long)
I-I-I wanna party 
Ain't feelin' no pain tonight, so come along (come along)
I wanna party! (all night, all night, all night, all night)
 
Verse 2:
Let's get closer and get carried away
like Miley's Party in the USA
I wanna dance and sing, forget everything
live in the moment, give my spirit wings

Lead In 2:
We can go all night (all night, all night)
Pulsing rhythmic light (rhythmic light)
B-Y-O-B Bring your own body
V-A-P-E Come hit the vape with me

Chorus: 
I-I-I wanna party
I wanna celebrate all night long (all night long)
I-I-I wanna party 
Ain't feelin' no pain tonight, so come along (come along)
I wanna party! (all night, all night, all night, all night)

Rap: 
Tonight is all about the vibe
All the bodies movin' from side to side
Open your mind and then you'll see
It's not that hard to live and let be
In this moment we have all the time
I can feel our thoughts combine
Hop on in, enjoy the ride
You better come along or move aside!

(Guitar solo)

Break down:
Intoxication, liberation
Free yourself and come with me
Let's party!

Chorus: 
I-I-I wanna party, yeah I wanna party!
I wanna celebrate all night long (all night long)
I-I-I wanna party 
Ain't feelin' no pain tonight, so come along (come along)

I-I-I wanna party
I wanna celebrate all night long (all night long)
I-I-I wanna party 
Ain't feelin' no pain tonight, so come along (come along)
I wanna party! (all night, all night, all night, all night)

Woah, I wanna party! (party, party, party)
I wanna party, yeah! (party, party, party)
Woah (party, party, party)
I wanna party! (party, party, party)
Woah

The lyrics here are protected by copyright © under the law (title 17, US Code) and are exclusively owned by ASCAP & Harry Fox affiliates Mrix Muzik Publishing.

#partysongs #banger #partymusic #partyanthems  #dancepop #party #remix 

Press Release: Come party with Candy Apple Blue! 🥳 

Honey, everyone's invited to this party! 🎉 Here's a short list of some other great party songs: Get The Party Started by Pink, Party in the USA by Miley Cyrus, Party All the Time by Eddie Murphy, You Gotta Fight for Your Right to Party by The Beastie Boys, Party Rock Anthem by LMFAO, Get Lucky by Daft Punk, and I Gotta Feeling by Black Eyed Peas

Candy Apple Blue I Wanna Party Nick Bramlett Matt Pop
Candy Apple Blue - I Wanna Party 🥳 ft. Nick Bramlett (Matt Pop Mix)



Saturday, March 2, 2024

Dedicated to the Loving Memory of Jamie Bixby (1973-2023)

Candy Apple Blue Jamie Bixby
Hoyt, Beth, Jamie, and Carly

I Wanna Party is dedicated to the loving memory of Jamie Bixby (1973-2023) who was always ready to party. NYC wouldn't have been the same without you our friend. We feel certain that our astrological paths will meet again. 

Big love, 🍬🍎🟦

Saturday, February 24, 2024

A Candy Apple Blue Photo Flashback ⚡ From 2010

Candy Apple Blue Band Candy Apple Bleu Candy Apple Blue Biz
Candy Apple Blue (2010) Band Photo

Here's a Candy Apple Blue photo flashback ⚡ from 2010. 

Back in 2009, after taking a seven-year-long hiatus from music-making, Hoyt and I both decided that we better get back to work. At that time, we were both in our late 30s and busy living our adult lives. Admittedly, we put our musical dreams on the back burner. Fortunately, we both heard a strong calling to start composing new music again. Our artistic souls needed to dive back into our art.

14 years later, here we are still at it. Thanks to you guys! You have showered us with so much love, support, and enthusiasm. Your loyalty to us and our music is the fuel that keeps us going! 

We want you to know that we feel that our best work is still in front of us. In so many ways, we are just getting started. Thank you for being on this musical journey with us!

Big love, Carly xoxo  🍬🍎🟦

Sunday, February 18, 2024

Admittedly, My Lipstick Application Is More Robert Smith Than Madonna 💄

Janine, Hoyt, and Michael (1993)
Janine, Hoyt, and Michael

Here I am back in 1993 with my friends Janine and Michael. I love Janine's "Raspberry Beret" and overalls! I'm also really digging Mike's alternative rock look here with his hair and goatee. I remember that we were on our way out to go out clubbing.

Music was always a big part of our lives. I remember Janine being a huge Morrissey and Smiths fan. Mike was really into Saint Entiem and Deee-Lite while I was all about Aimee Mann's first solo album. The music artists that we liked back then were a big part of our identities. It's hard to describe but back in those days, the artists that you listened to helped to define you as a person. 

Admittedly, my lipstick application is more Robert Smith than Madonna, but hey that was the look I was going for. I'm pretty sure that Janine might have borrowed my lipstick because the fact that we are both wearing the same shade of Chanel red is just too much of a coincidence. 

~ Love and laughs, Hoyt 🍬🍎🟦

Saturday, February 17, 2024

We Shot Some Really Cool Footage 🎥


Hoyt Emerick: "I Wanna Party" Music Video Shoot

Thank you guys so much for asking about yesterday's video shoot! 🎥 We shot some really cool footage and I think the end result is going to be spectacular. 

We didn't use green screen this time so maybe that's why I was a little bit more nervous than usual. It's a lot harder to control and film in a live environment. Nick, Hoyt, and I gave it our very best. 

Now I've got to get started on the editing. Honestly, it was more fun than it was work. It's so cool to be in my early '50s still chasing the dream. 🙏❤️ 

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.

Big Love, Carly xoxo 🍬🍎🟦


Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Erasure Signed The Two Ring Circus CD 💿

Erasure Signed Two Ring Circus CD Candy Apple Blue
Erasure Signed "The Two Ring Circus" CD to Candy Apple Blue 

Having Andy Bell and Vince Clarke of Erasure autograph our Two Ring Circus CD 💿 was an incredible moment for us. This album was a big part of our childhood. We played it all the time. The song "Don't Dance" 🎵 for example has an important message that still resonates strongly with us today.

"You can step on out. You can do without. You don't have to be like every other."

Tuesday, February 13, 2024

We Are All Souls Just Temporarily Visiting a Human Body

Carly Emerick Candy Apple Blue 1997 NYC
Carly Emerick of Candy Apple Blue (1997)

We Are All Souls Just Temporarily Visiting a Human Body

Being androgynous is having possession of both masculine and feminine characteristics. My idols growing up were androgynous rebels like Boy George, Pete Burns, Marilyn, David Bowie, Divine, and even Rocky Horror's Tim Curry. I identified with them. I saw pieces of myself in them.

My life has indeed been one big strange circumstance. Quite often growing up people would misgender me. I caused quite a stir in my small hometown by just being me. Even when I lived in NYC, if I dressed like a boy, I would be called she; if I dressed like a girl, I would be called he. I just couldn't win. I never let pronouns define me and I still don't. I believe that we are so much more than our physical bodies. We are all souls just temporarily visiting a human body. The same could be said for all living creatures on this beautiful planet. 

The world has changed a lot since I was young and seeing people embrace this aspect of themselves is so refreshing. It's like the world has finally caught up to my way of thinking. Whether you identify as he, she, transgender, two-spirit, or non-binary just know that you belong here. How you choose to express your soul is up to you. In a sometimes cruel world that seems to be against anyone who is outside the realm of "normal" just remember to be kind, be respectful, be calm, and be you. 

Big love, Carly xoxo 🍬🍎🟦

Friday, February 9, 2024

Official "I Wanna Party" T-Shirts

Candy Apple Blue Official I Wanna Party T-Shirts
Candy Apple Blue Official "I Wanna Party" T-Shirts

As promised, I Wanna Party t-shirts are now available on our merch table. If you want to support our band this is a great way to do so. 

Order here: https://www.teepublic.com/t-shirt/56330065-i-wanna-party?store_id=1325384

Tie Dye Candy Apple Blue I Wanna Party T-Shirt
T-Shirt Color: Tie Dye (Official Candy Apple Blue Merch)


Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Press Release: Come party with Candy Apple Blue! 🥳 🎉

Candy Apple Blue I Wanna Party Matt Pop Nick Bramlett
Candy Apple Blue - I Wanna Party ft. Nick Bramlett (Matt Pop Mix)

Press Release: Come party with Candy Apple Blue! 🥳 🎉

The official cover art, track listing, and release date reveal for our forthcoming single I Wanna Party. 

We energetically composed and carefully crafted what we feel is the perfect pop song. In the great tradition of party anthems, I Wanna Party sits right up there with the best of the best of them. (e.g. Get The Party Started by Pink, Party in the USA by Miley Cyrus, Party All the Time by Eddie Murphy, You Gotta Fight for Your Right to Party by The Beastie Boys, Party Rock Anthem by LMFAO, Get Lucky by Daft Punk, and I Gotta Feeling by Black Eyed Peas)

Matt Pop meticulously produced a sound for us that is so sonically fresh, feverishly stylish, and blissfully exciting. The warm bass line pulsates beautifully against the slick rhythm. The synthesizer work is just brilliant. The melodic hook is so deliciously irresistible. If you're not singing and dancing along by the third chorus then you might have to check yourself for a pulse. 

The lead vocals on I Wanna Party are handled with great enthusiasm by Nick Bramlett. His golden voice soars along as he belts his heart out. Nick skillfully delivers each line of the song with just the right amount of intensity. It's got to be one of his best vocal performances to date. The glittery background vocals performed by Magenta Soulstar absolutely sparkle. I too had to join in on the fun and record some background vocals. The electric guitar work by Micah Blakeslee is funky, expressive, and played with great precision. And Hoyt's slick rap invites the listener to "Hope on in, enjoy the ride!". 

I had a blast designing the cover art for this release. It took me three days in Photoshop with a little help from AI to achieve the cosmic look that I was going for. I wanted to show Hoyt, Nick, and I coming up through a space portal transcending our earthly bounds. The gold-colored helium balloons are there to celebrate our success. It was a remarkable achievement for us to get this particular song to the finish line. 

In conclusion, I Wanna Party is cheerful and upbeat. It's undeniably a great dance record. The song's message is universal. It's a real triumph and we are super proud of it. We hope you will love, cherish, and support our combined efforts. It's our greatest wish that this song will elevate and lift your spirits.

Big love, Carly xoxo 🍬🍎🟦

Track Listing:

1) I Wanna Party (Matt Pop Mix)

2) I Wanna Party (Matt Pop Extended Version)

3) I Wanna Party (Matt Pop Instrumental Mix)

Release Date: March 8th, 2024 (New Music Friday)

PS. In case you were wondering, we are shooting a music video for I Wanna Party. We are scheduled to film next week. That should leave me just enough time to edit the video footage before the song's release. 

PSS. I Wanna Party t-shirts will be available this coming Friday.

 

Saturday, February 3, 2024

Redefining My Definition of Success

Carly Emerick of Candy Apple Blue
Carly Emerick of Candy Apple Blue

I found success by redefining my definition of success. It's all mind over matter. xoxo ~ Carly

Thursday, February 1, 2024

Music Is My Lifeblood

Carly Emerick of Candy Apple Blue
Carly Emerick of Candy Apple Blue

Songwriting is my passion! Music is my lifeblood. When people ask me about my profession, I proudly tell them that I'm a songwriter. The songs that I compose are what I will leave behind when I leave this beautiful planet.  ~ Carly xoxo 🍬🍎🟦

Monday, January 29, 2024

Record Shopping

Hoyt Emerick Boy George High Hat
Hoyt Emerick (Age 18) Holding a Boy George CD 

Here's a young 18-year-old Hoyt holding his record store find of the day. It's Boy George's album Tense Nervous Headache. Here in the United States, it's more commonly known as High Hat with some track listing variations. We've adored this album since it came out so finding an alternative import version on CD was a special treat. The disc is loaded with some beautiful tracks. To this day, it still surprises me that Don't Cry wasn't a top-10 hit for the Boy. Fortunately, Don't Take My Mind on a Trip was a minor hit for him on the US R&B Billboard Charts. 

Record shopping was a huge part of our lives back in the 1980s, 1990s, and even 2000s. Shopping for rare imports and missing pieces in our already huge record collection was an exciting experience for us. It was better than hunting for Easter Eggs. It's hard to describe the feeling that we would get when finding a rare piece that we didn't even know existed. Those of you who know, know. It was a thrilling time in music. We'd hunt for rare B-sides, 12" mixes, promotional items, and even alternative cover art sleeves from some of our favorite artists. We sought after artists like Culture Club, The Thompson Twins, Dead or Alive, Duran Duran, Bananarama, SAW, Pet Shop Boys, Sam Fox, Stevie Nicks, Crystal Gayle, Kim Wilde, and Sylvia just to name a few. 

It's sometimes strange for me to think of how much time and money we spent doing this activity. We'd even drive to far-away towns, go to record conventions, and use mail-order catalogs to acquire these rare items. In a time before the internet, if you wanted to hear music that wasn't on the radio you had to buy it. Receiving a mix tape from a friend was the best. You got to discover new music that they hand-selected just for you.

The state of the music industry and record business today admittedly puzzles me. Sure, it's amazing to be able to listen to absolutely anything that your heart desires at any given time. You have the world's complete music catalog at your fingertips. Future generations aren't going to believe that we collected music by pressing it to a physical format. Streaming is here to give us the instant gratification that we all crave. 

Big love, Carly xoxo 🍬🍎🟦

Sunday, January 28, 2024

Picture it. New York City, 1997. (Midnight In Chelsea)

Carly Emerick Cranberrys or SixPence None The Richer (1996)
Carly Emerick Living in Manhattan's Chelsea Region (1997)

Picture it. New York City, 1997. 

Here I am all doe-eyed but street smart trying to make my songwriting dreams a reality. I was 24 years old and living in the Chelsea section of Manhattan. I lived directly across from the notorious Hotel Chelsea. (Remember Sid and Nancy?) I was lucky enough to have a friend who was able to get me into this very small but quaint penthouse studio apartment. I was struggling just to pay the rent so I had no money to furnish it. I slept on the floor in a blue sleeping bag. However, I did have my music-making equipment set up and that was all that I needed. 

Behind me is my trusted CrossWave synthesizer the Ensoniq SQ-80. It's been my main go-to bread-and-butter synth ever since I purchased it. With its easy-to-understand built-in midi sequencer, I still find myself today composing on it. I have to admit, however, that I spend more time these days composing in Pro Tools.  

My look here is influenced by rock bands like The Cranberries and Sixpence None the Richer. Pamela Anderson was big on Baywatch and having tiny eyebrows was the trend. Around my neck is a Swatch watch. I wore it so much that the wristband broke. However, even then that didn't stop me from wearing it. I found a string that fit through the screw holes and wore it like a useful fashion accessory. My watch became my necklace. It was just another testament to how broke I was. 

One night, after fumbling over a few piano chords, I found myself having writer's block. So I decided to go out and grab a bite. I needed to get some fresh air. When I got back in, the doorman at the front desk was all a buzz about Jon Bon Jovi filming right across the street from us. I excitedly got into the elevator with my sandwich in hand and pressed the top floor. I knew that I had the perfect view of the street and the hotel from my window. From there, I could easily see Jon. The film crew had him lit up and bathed in light. He was at the window just strumming away on his guitar. Behind him was the brightly lit Hotel Chelsea neon sign. It reminded me of how close and yet how far away I was from success. The irony wasn't lost on me.

There I was looking out my window at one of the biggest rockstars on the planet. He was making a tremendous living making music yet here I was barely able to make ends meet. Not only were we on opposite sides of the street, we were on opposite sides of success. I sat there watching him play feeling sorry for myself. 

A few months later, while browsing titles at a record store, Jon's new CD single "Midnight At Chelsea" caught my eye. I walked over to the import section and picked it up. I immediately thought, oh so this must be the song for the music video that he was filming that night. I stared at the black and white stark cover art. I couldn't help but notice that Jon looked unhappy. Then I took note that the jacket that he was wearing on the cover was very similar to the one that I wore. I sighed and thought to myself maybe we're not as worlds apart as I initially thought. I turned the CD over to see the track listing and read that it was from his new album called Destination Anywhere. If Jon Bon Jovi seemed as lost as I was then maybe there was still hope for me yet.

Big love, Carly xoxo 🍬🍎🟦


Midnight In Chelsea Jon Bon Jovi CD Single
For reference, here's a picture of that
Jon Bon Jovi CD that I mentioned in this post.


Saturday, January 27, 2024

Candy Apple Blue Is Celebrating an Anniversary With Nick Bramlett

Candy Apple Blue with Nick Bramlett pop rock vocalist
Candy Apple Blue With Pop-Rock Vocalist Nick Bramlett

This year marks our 10th anniversary of working with pop-rock vocalist Nick Bramlett.

To say that we enjoy working with Nick would be an understatement. Nick is uniquely gifted and a real powerhouse of a singer. He brings our compositions to life by pouring his heart and soul into his vocal performances. 

We first recorded with Nick back in 2014. After hearing that we were looking for a guest vocalist to sing on Detonator, a mutual friend introduced us. The first time I heard Nick doing his warm-ups, I knew he had a special talent. 

I often tell Nick that his singing voice reminds me of the male version of Christina Aguilera. It could be because they are both from Pittsburgh, PA and have similar intonations. Nick's vocal runs are out of this world! His vibrato is beautiful and he really sinks his teeth into the material we give him. Nick is a passionate singer and a passionate person. His vocal performance on our forthcoming record I Wanna Party, for example, encompasses everything that I've mentioned here! 🎉

Happy 10th-anniversary, Nick! Candy Apple Blue loves YOU!

Sincerely, Carly 🍬🍎🟦

Friday, January 26, 2024

We Used a Vocoder on I Wanna Party

Vocoder Effect Plug-In Vocodex Image-Line
Image-Line's Vocoder Effect Plug-In Vocodex

We used a vocoder on our 2022 song Graphic Equalizer. It was the first time we used this effect in our music. Hoyt and I loved the way it sounded so we decided to use it again on our forthcoming single I Wanna Party. 

The use of vocoders in electronic music is nothing new but for us it is. Vocoders were used a lot in early 1980s dance music. Many of you might remember it was used in the unforgettable hook of Michael Jackson's P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing). Stevie Wonder also used it in his sentimental ballad I Just Called To Say I Love You. And surely anyone enthusiastic about pop music remembers Daft Punk used it on their international big hit Get Lucky.

Pictured here is an early 1970s vocoder that was custom-built for the electronic music band Kraftwerk. Fortunately, these days many great VST options exist in the digital domain. I used a great plug-in by Image-Line called Vocodex to achieve the sound I was looking for.

It only took me a few hours to learn how to use this effect in our own music. I ran Nick's voice through it using a carrier synth and the end result sounds just fantastic. There's something futuristic yet deliciously retro about it. Our producer Matt Pop loved it so much that he decided to open the song with this fun element. 

Big love, Carly xoxo 🍬🍎🟦