HNA® Music (BMI) has turned a fresh page in the world of independent sound with the announcement of their forthcoming album, No Song Hold On, scheduled to drop on January 20, 2025. This release is being crafted under the guidance of the artist collective PDS™, and it’s set to introduce a unique fusion genre that the label calls “Rap Ballad Classical.” This innovative style aims to break down old boundaries, blending emotional melodies with modern hip-hop edges. It’s a move that positions HNA® Music as a true trailblazer, ready to reshape how listeners experience music in the streaming age.
The Rise of HNA® Music and PDS™
HNA® Music, originally founded under PDS Entertainment LLC (now closed) and now a division of PDS ENT LLC, has always championed the independent artist. Their story began more than a decade ago with the Hottest New Artist® (HNA) Contest, broadcast first through WHAP in Hopewell, Virginia, and later online, reaching an international audience. Back then, breaking through the clutter of mainstream radio stations and global streaming platforms was no easy feat. Yet, the label persisted, seeking out under-the-radar voices that held immense potential.
Fast-forward to 2019, when HNA® stumbled upon an unexpected goldmine. Emerging artist Mila Franc caught the public’s attention with her track “DJ,” which unexpectedly went viral in late 2022. With over 7 million streams and counting, that single moment changed the game for HNA® Music. The viral sensation not only put a spotlight on the label’s unique offerings but also cemented its revival and dedication to transforming past hits and creating new genre-defying tracks.
At the heart of this renewed vision is PDS™, a newly formed collective of artists united under the HNA® banner. This group includes a diverse cast: Jackson, Mila Franc, Deborah Ware, Janae, Famousz, Julia, Milly, Man, Faith Gatewood, G-Quinn, and more. All are past contestants handpicked by thousands of HNA® listeners worldwide—except for Julia, who’s the newest addition. She’s described as an extraordinarily young and radiant talent whose vocals bring a fresh touch to the album’s title track. Collectively, these artists are ready to set the stage for something truly unforgettable.
Introducing Rap Ballad Classical
No Song Hold On features 22 tracks that aren’t shy about venturing into unexplored musical territories. This is where the term “Rap Ballad Classical” comes in: a genre that marries soft, romantic ballad structures, classical flourishes, and the rhythmic flow of rap. According to Paul Spencer, President of HNA® Music and producer of the upcoming album, this fusion is designed to challenge conventional music classifications. Instead of following predictable formulas, each track on No Song Hold On delivers a dynamic blend of sweet harmonies, compelling verses, and timeless instrumentation. It’s the kind of sound that can tug at the heartstrings one moment and get heads nodding the next.
If you’re curious about what this new genre feels like in action, look no further than the album’s lead single, “Money Dance (Got Money)” by PDS™ featuring Jackson. Fans can already catch a glimpse of its vibrant energy through a promo video on YouTube. This track offers a preview of what PDS™ hopes to achieve: a listening experience that’s both evocative and forward-thinking, playful yet profound. And it’s not just about one or two singles—No Song Hold On is carefully curated so each track plays a part in telling a larger story.
Building Towards the Big Day
As the clock ticks down to January 20, 2025, HNA® Music is busy generating anticipation for this long-awaited release. Additional tracks and previews are on the horizon, each one offering insight into the collective’s core vision. Despite being underdogs for many years, the label has carved out a niche by nurturing talent and taking creative risks. Thanks to streaming platforms and an ever-connected fan base, the path to success is more open than ever for independent music makers.
Paul, the founder and managing member of the Artist Collective PDS, often reflects on the genre’s roots with a note of nostalgia and excitement. He fondly recalls discovering his parents’ old jazz and blues records, later embracing the Big Band era, and eventually exploring the soulful rhythms of R&B and the energized beats of hip-hop. His personal journey through these musical landscapes inspired him to create “Rap Ballad Classical,” a style that joins different musical eras and cultures into one unified sound.
As the team fine-tunes each track, from the lead single to more understated gems, HNA® Music can’t wait to share their creation with the world. For those eager to keep up with every announcement and sneak peek, the label encourages fans to stay tuned. The support of passionate listeners, new and old, is what turns an ambitious project like No Song Hold On into a defining moment in music history.
For more information and updates, fans can visit the official website. As January 20, 2025 approaches, one thing is certain: HNA® Music and PDS™ are ready to usher in a new era of sound.
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