Becky Raisman, a 2007 Columbia alum, released her newest EP titled “Peace, Love and Harmony” on streaming services like Spotify, Soundcloud and Apple Music, continuing her journey of love for music.
The EP focuses on its message of happiness and love, which is expressed by its moods, lyricism and music contained in the album. Additionally, it’s rightly represented by its album cover, featuring two colorful hands holding a yin and yang symbol with a rainbow on one of the colors. Three songs make up the album: “Feeling Groovy,” “Love Revolution” and “Harmony Blooms.”
“What inspired me were songs from the 60’s and music from the musical ‘Hair’,’” Raisman said. The songs she listened to revolved around simple yet catchy melodies along with soft-rock choruses.
Raisman spent close to two years working on the album, starting with writing the lyrics back in 2023. Raisman then purchased tracks from MaxxBeats, a music website which sells beats and recorded at Charleston Sound Studios in Charleston, South Carolina and Solar Sound Studios in Atlanta, Georgia.
The album begins with a reggae-style 60’s tune of “Feeling Groovy” which consists of an acoustic guitar, drums, moving bassline and feel-good vibes. With a clean and melodic electric guitar which joins in during the chorus, this song is all about living positively. It has a flowy and steady tone that exudes the message of the album.
Raisman graduated from Columbia with a bachelor’s degree in performing arts. During her time at the college, she was frequently singing at various events like Manifest, the college’s annual festival held at the end of the spring semester. During her senior year, Raisman was a part of the Columbia College Chorus, performing for Manifest at Buddy Guy’s Legends.
After graduation, Raisman attended various schools such as School of Rock, both the Mount Pleasant, South Carolina and the Libertyville, Illinois locations. Where she released some of her previously released pop albums such as “Cruising” and “Warrior,” leading to her being featured in various websites such as Bold Journey Magazine
Matt McFarland, co-owner for School of Rock at Mount Pleasant in South Carolina, met Raisman at the school’s opening establishment in 2023. There was an opening for the vocalist position in the school’s adult band, Stereo Box School of Rock, which Raisman contacted the school to sign up for and got the role.
“She’s the type of student who motivates others simply by her enthusiasm and dedication, which has really contributed to our supportive environment,” McFarland said
During her time at both School of Rock locations Raisman has performed at various shows with the adult band, as well as performing solo
“She is unafraid to speak her mind and it’s mostly her feelings that come through really strongly in her music,” John Zebell, owner of School of Rock in Libertyville said
After the 60s tone, Raisman’s EP continues with the EDM pop song “Love Revolution” which has an anthemic touch to it due to using a catchy synth melody and an electronic beat. This piece builds up a joyous energy which culminates in the chorus. With lines such as “This ain’t a race, it ain’t no fight, give in to light,” it’s a stand-out in this musical piece.
For what goes on in their song creation process, Raisman simply said, “I just come up with lyrics and melodies in my head. Sometimes I’ll find a track to go with it.”
“Harmony Blooms” closes the album with a singular acoustic guitar setting the mood of the song and Raisman delivering the message of the glee felt once everything turns out okay. Making the choice of just an acoustic guitar and voice creates an intimate feeling of a calm state of mind. “With daisies in our hair, paint a world with hues to chase,” is one of the lines which ring in its second verse.
McFarland said that he felt proud seeing and listening to Raisman’s music releases since she first began at School of Rock
“Hearing her excitement about recording and putting out her own music shows she’s not just studying, she’s truly living music,” said McFarland.
Looking back at their journey, Raisman said “I feel like I’ve come a long way.”
One of the best things Raisman learned during their experience is the idea of continuously working on one’s craft and following their heart.
“If there’s something that you want to do, go out and do it,” said Raisman.
Raisman is currently working on their follow-up album, titled “Earth Goddesses” which will be released later in February.
Copy edited by Patience Hurston
