Now here is a chick to take note of for 2012! "Ronika" is the stage name of Nottingham-native Veronica Sampson, a buzz-worthy pop artist. Although a relative novice to the music scene, Ronika has already received praise from Popjustice, the Guardian, & NME. She writes, records, and produces all of her own music, creating an extraordinarily convincing retro-funk sound, slightly reminiscent of Madonna & definitely inspired by her.
Ronika caught my ear a few months back when I heard Forget Yourself, a synthpop dancefloor track of epic proportions. This month Ronika released an even more melodic tune, Only Only, which also gathered buzz online. The Only Only music video is like a trip through the cosmos, featuring multi-colored rollerblades, 80s dance moves, illuminated silhouettes, and Ronika professing her love to a keyboard. After I saw this video I thought to myself, "damn, this girl's a keeper!"Ronika also sports a super-fresh, urban-chic style evocative of Lily Allen's career beginnings. She rocks neon dresses, jackets, old school Adidas and bright red lipstick for a neo80s look - one she pulls off absolutely flawlessly (can you sense my jealousy?). Her hazy, lo-fi music videos are totally engaging, playful and unpretentious (Only Only is the perfect example).
Let me just say that if I had my way, Ronika would be collaborating with Fear of Tigers on a cover of Vogue! Keep it up Ronika! You are sure to join the ranks of my other favorite rising pop artists - Lana Del Rey & Neon Hitch - as long as you continue producing those tunes that I can dance to in green tights, orange ray bans & fluorescent pink lipstick! (don't worry, I can pull it off, I'm a redhead). Much love!
Unapologetically,
Minna
