Who’s Up Next? - Egee

The Austin-based songstress joins us to talk about her artistry, upcoming shows and creative process.

Marissa Kaye @someokayphotos, Photographer

Joho: Hi Egee! I’ve recently gotten the chance to check out all of your singles and I think saying I’m impressed would be an understatement. Your sound is so refreshing. What can you tell us about how your music career got started?

Egee: Thank you kindly! According to my mom, I’ve been singing and writing songs about my life since I could talk. Evidently, I process existence through storytelling and melody. I guess my career started in earnest when I started making my first single in Fall of 2021.

Joho: As a fellow Louisiana native, I could instantly pick up the jazzy elements of your music. How has your upbringing shaped your artistry and songwriting?

Egee: It would have been hard to ignore the brilliant sounds of jazz and blues in Louisiana. My mom used to help put a small music festival in Shreveport, Louisiana called the Highland Jazz and Blues festival; that’s where I was first introduced to live music – the sounds of Henry Gray and the Rebirth Brass Band to give you an idea. I was also inspired by pop radio as a kid, and musical theatre (which my parents stuck me in because of the compulsive singing and inclination for drama and dance). With anyone, it’s always a combination of nature and nurture.

Marissa Kaye @someokayphotos, Photographer

Joho: Your 2021 single “Staring at You” features a more distinctive pop sound in comparison to the jazzy, bluegrass sound of last summer’s “Disappointed but Not Surprised” or even the more Rock-based elements on your most recent single “La Mer”. How would you say your songwriting has evolved over the years?

Egee: I write all kinds of music. What has evolved is what kind of music I want to share with a broader audience/perform on stage. For a long time that was none of them. Then I made “Staring at You” as sort of a calling card in preparation for my move to Austin—as if to say here’s what I can do right now! It felt right to start my career on a joyous note. Who doesn’t like a pop tune? Passion strings all the singles together, but thanks to lots of journaling and time spent in creativity I’m honing my genre: rock-n-roll cabaret.

Joho: Listening to your music, I'm reminded of some early Maroon 5, parts of Maggie Rogers, a bit of MisterWives and Melanie Martinez, yet you still have an element of uniqueness that makes a 1:1 comparison not do justice. Who are some of your influences and how has your experience been with finding ways to establish a sound of your own that doesn't lean too heavily on them?

Egee: I also find 1:1 comparisons difficult thank you for verbalizing that. I’m constantly inspired by other artists, but I feel like they shaped my worldview and life trajectory and thus my sound. Artists like Lorde, Miley Cyrus, Florence and the Machine, Lana del Rey, Hozier, Arctic Monkeys (I mean the list goes on and on) affected me as a person. I never set out to start making music like someone else. I never “set out” to start making music! To me, every song I’ve ever connected with is felt in my music, but the final track always ends up an Egee song – in my humble opinion.

Marissa Kaye @someokayphotos, Photographer

Joho: Your song "Disappointed but Not Surprised" is an anthemic fan-favorite that has caught on with so many people. What can you tell us about how that song came about?

Egee: If you connect with this tune, I’m sorry you had to go through that. “Disappointed but Not Surprised” was born out of the feeling that you saw tragedy coming and still couldn’t avoid it. Sometimes it seems you can’t outrun your own youth, and by youth, I guess I really mean naivete. Sometimes I mourn the days before I knew better, but I think what makes this song have its anthemic quality, is the wakeup call that…like…you clocked the tea from the jump… so to speak. With the realization that you have wherewithal, there comes a reckoning of power. Power over your own situation means people can’t take advantage of you in that way again. This song is a turning point, and for me, it was a really important one.

Joho: Your latest single "La Mer" has been supported by a very tasteful, vintage visual identity in its branding and promotional material. What inspired this look and how do you feel it represents the vibe you want the song to express?

Egee: I really have to give credit where credit is due. I went w*g shopping at Coco Coquette here in Austin, and let the wind take me. I tried on seven w*gs. At first, I thought Egee would have a short black bob a-la Cabaret (Liza Minnelli’s “Sally Bowles”), but as soon as I put on that seventh one I knew I’d met Egee in her final form. That in combination with the right pair of eyelashes…se magnifique! Simialrly to my thoughts on songwriting, I didn’t concoct a look to achieve a pre-specified purpose, I am just finding chords and words and clothes and hair that speak to me and saying yes to my fancies. I could psycho-analyze myself, but I’ll leave that to the professionals.

Marissa Kaye @someokayphotos, Photographer

Joho: I know you've been hard at work on your debut album for some time. What can you tell us about this project and when can we expect to see it?

Egee: Goodie, one could say I’ve been working on my “debut album” since 1999; as you know good-ie things take time. Folks should expect another single next, and hopefully a larger collection within a year. I solemnly swear I chip away at the monolith every day. There is a lot more that goes into an artist project (to use Chappell’s language) than just recording music. My live shows feature an album’s worth of material though, so check one of those out in the meantime!

Joho: What does your creative process look like when making new songs?

Egee: Usually, the acoustic guitar beckons me from across the room or I make up a melody in the car that I can’t get out of my head. It usually starts as a voice note. From there, I work to finish the arrangement to the best of my ability. This involves writing down the lyrics and re-recording a fully realized melody. Then I bring it to the band, and we work out how each instrument is involved. I’m really lucky to have found such thoughtful and talented musicians to work with, who honor the song and my vision. My collaborators include (in order of appearance): Arib Qureshi (bass), Nathaniel Ogren (guitar), Zach Russell (drums), Nic Gwin (guitar), and Jagger Leone (keys). I should also shout out David Messier and Andre Cantave at Same Sky Productions in Austin for being my home away from home and place wherein these songs are rehearsed, engineered, tracked, and mixed as of late.

Marissa Kaye @someokayphotos, Photographer

Joho: Who are some of your favorite artists in the Austin Music Scene that you have collaborated or done shows with?

Egee: There are so many talented musicians in Austin it’s actually staggering and warps my perception of reality. It seems anywhere in the city you can throw a rock and hit someone who…rocks. To name a few (and honestly I hate this question because I’m going to leave someone out) Kiki Machine, Wolf Bradley, Grace Womack, Eddie Angel, Slurp the World, Montclair, Alexi 8 Bit, Secret Siren, Bubba Lucky, John Scott, Lainey Gonzales, and Peyton Medina. Those are just folks who I’ve gotten the opportunity to share a bill with. The list of acts in Austin that I love and respect is never-ending, really grows every day.

Joho: What’s next for Egee? Any upcoming shows or exciting projects we should be looking out for?

Egee: I have a show on April 25th at Stubbs and May 10th at Continental Club both in Austin, TX! We’re going to be spending the summer recording and make content for you divas, so catch us in the spring or hold you horses ‘til the fall!

Joho: Can we find your music on all streaming platforms? Where else can we stay updated on news about Egee?

Egee: You sure can. The best way to keep up to date is by following me on Instagram @egeemusic and Tik Tok @egeemusic.

Joho “Calling Me Out” Live from Houston Music Classified’s Song Swap (Video)

First ever acoustic live performance of deep cut from Joho’s 2020 album ‘Nocturnal Daydreams’.

Artist Spotlight: Empty Pinata's Infectious New Track 'I Have A Huge Crush on Doja Cat'

"I might be the one to take you out your house and in my car and break your heart" sings the former LA Rodriguez in this groovy February single.

The aptly titled "I Have A Huge Crush on Doja Cat" explores themes of chaotic young love over a captivating, yet melancholic surf rock guitar lick reminiscent of something you'd hear from Joy Again, The Drums or Surf Curse. All while enthralling us with a Midwest-Emo-esque vocal performance akin to the likes of Modern Baseball. There's a timeless element to this song, as something that feels very fresh, yet feels like it has always existed. This tune will continue to be a favorite of our team throughout 2025, and we're excited to see what more he has to bring us with his EP coming in the summer of 2025.

Learn more about Empty Pinata through his social media platforms, linked below:

https://emptypinata.tumblr.com
https://www.facebook.com/emptypinata
https://x.com/AnEmptyPinata
https://open.spotify.com/artist/emptypinata
https://instagram.com/emptypinata
https://tiktok.com/emptypinata

Joho shines on latest studio album “southside thrill ride”

[HOUSTON, TX] - Goodie. is thrilled announce the release of “southside thrill ride”, the highly anticipated 9th studio album by American recording artist, Joho.

Following the success of 2023’s “Black American Scumbag”, SSTR showcases a more introspective and mature Joho. The album, clocking in at just under 50 minutes, delves deep into themes of family, interpersonal relationships, morality, mortality, higher education and self consciousness.

Joho takes the helm on production, with additional production, engineering and mixing by Houston artist 4D3N . The album also features contributions from Houston singer-songwriter IIRIIS.

“southside thrill ride” offers a rich tapestry of musical genres, seamlessly blending hip-hop, alternative rock, R&B, and pop, with fans getting an early taste through standout singles “better off alone”, “another stupid game” and “all u have 2 say”.

“southside thrill ride” is available now on all major streaming platforms and for purchase.

Joho reflects in final single from new new album “boy meets world”

[HOUSTON, TX] - Goodie Media LLC is thrilled to announce the release of "boy meets world," the final single from Joho's highly anticipated album, "southside thrill ride." This penultimate track drops on February 3rd, coinciding with Joho's 28th birthday.

"boy meets world" encapsulates the central theme of "southside thrill ride," offering a poignant reflection on Joho's current place in life. The song explores the artist's journey of self-discovery, acknowledging the gap between his aspirations and reality while marking the end of a significant chapter in his life and career.

This single serves as a fitting conclusion to Joho's album trilogy, which includes "A Beginner's Guide to True Insanity," "Black American Scumbag," and the upcoming "southside thrill ride." The trilogy chronicles Joho's experiences and growth throughout his mid-twenties, culminating in this introspective and powerful track.

"southside thrill ride" is set for release on February 21st and will be available on all major streaming platforms.

Joho stuns with electrifying new single “dan marino gran torino”

[HOUSTON, TX] - Goodie. is thrilled to announce the release of "dan marino gran torino," the electrifying new single from Joho. This track serves as the opening salvo from his highly anticipated album, "southside thrill ride."

"dan marino gran torino" showcases Joho's exceptional versatility as an artist, seamlessly blending singing, rapping, and production into a thunderous, genre-defying experience. The single offers listeners a glimpse into Joho's introspective journey, as he assesses his current standing in life while asserting his undeniable talent and artistic prowess.

With its pulsating beats and razor-sharp lyrics, "dan marino gran torino" sets the tone for what promises to be a groundbreaking album. Joho's unique ability to craft infectious melodies while delivering hard-hitting verses positions him as one of the most exciting new voices in the music industry.

"southside thrill ride" is slated for release on February 21, 2025, and "dan marino gran torino" is available now on all major streaming platforms.

Joho dazzles with latest single “trust”

[HOUSTON, TX] - Goodie. is excited to announce the release of “trust,” the latest single from American Popstar, Joho. This track is the fourth single from Joho’s highly anticipated upcoming album, “southside thrill ride.”

“trust” is an ambitious two-part composition that showcases Joho’s growth as both a songwriter and performer.
Part One, titled “Trust,” explores themes of betrayal and self-preservation in romantic relationships. In Part Two, “Game Over,” Joho turns the lens inward, examining his own past actions and the cyclical nature of trust and forgiveness.

This introspective and emotionally charged single offers listeners a preview of the depth and maturity to be expected from Joho’s forthcoming album.

“trust” is now available on all major streaming platforms.

Joho brings New Orleans flare in energetic new single "all u have 2 say"

[HOUSTON, TX] - Goodie. is excited to announce the release of "all u have 2 say," the third single from Joho's upcoming album "southside thrill ride."

This alternative ballad evolves into a sprawling, danceable New Orleans bounce-inspired track. The song explores themes of nostalgia and reconciliation as Joho reflects on a past relationship, leaving the door open for either rekindling or moving on.

"all u have 2 say" showcases Joho's versatility as an artist, blending emotive lyrics with an infectious beat that's sure to resonate with fans of alternative and bounce music alike.

The single is now available on all major streaming platforms.

Joho thrills in new 90s-inspired single "another stupid game"

[HOUSTON, TX] - Goodie. is excited to announce the release of "another stupid game," the latest single from artist Joho. This track is the second preview of Joho's forthcoming album, "southside thrill ride."

"another stupid game" showcases Joho's evolving sound, blending a captivating piano melody with gritty, garage rock-inspired bass lines. The song's structure takes listeners on a journey, opening with a 90s rock-influenced first half before transitioning into a slower, more introspective latter portion.

Lyrically, the song explores themes of setting boundaries and moving on from past relationships. Joho's vocals convey raw emotion as he navigates these complex feelings throughout the track.

This single perfectly captures the range and depth listeners can expect from 'southside thrill ride.'"

"another stupid game" is available now on all major streaming platforms.

Joho returns with brilliant lead single "better off alone"

[HOUSTON, TX] - Goodie. is excited to announce the release of "better off alone," the lead single from Joho's highly anticipated album "southside thrill ride."

This emotionally charged track showcases Joho's introspective songwriting as he explores the aftermath of a broken relationship. Built around a captivating bass refrain, the song's production features thunderous drums, intricate synth work, and a standout saxophone solo that elevates the track to new heights.

"better off alone" represents a significant artistic evolution for Joho, delivering one of his most poignant and vulnerable performances to date. The single offers listeners a taste of what to expect from the forthcoming album "southside thrill ride."

The single is now available on all major streaming platforms.