Speaking of Indie Music: Nothing Else Matters

In the over saturated world music, Melodic Playground took a left turn 30 years before it's first broadcast. There are some great songs in the mainstream but the truth is I just love to hear them first. In a way,.. that is like the cherry on top. Supporting the indie music scene and the artists that put their souls into our favorite sounds has become a purpose and a passion, it's my passion... it's my purpose!

I'm DJ Meladik and you can find me in the underground where innovation and authenticity thrive. Today it's an honor to introduce Leipzig-based musician and producer Kerian von Heyden  as he continues to grow his catalog. A family man with a deep love for music, Kerian’s journey has been years in the making. While he’s been crafting his sound for a long time, it was only in 2024 that he finally shared his art with the world—and the response has been nothing short of remarkable.

As the founder of Melodic Playground Radio, I, DJ Meladik, have dedicated my career to breaking new music and supporting indie artists. It’s a passion rooted in a belief that there are countless hidden gems out there waiting to be discovered and shared. When I first heard Kerian’s music, I knew immediately that he was one of those gems. His sound is innovative, emotional, and undeniably captivating. I am honored to welcome Kerian as the newest member of our indie music family and to have the privilege of introducing his music to our audience.

Kerian’s music is a reflection of his eclectic influences. Growing up, he was inspired by the synthpop of the 80s, with iconic bands like Depeche Mode shaping his sonic sensibilities. The raw power of Metallica, the haunting beauty of Dark Wave pioneers such as Deine Lakaien, and the modern innovation of artists like Alan Walker and Billie Eilish have all left their mark on his work. What sets Kerian apart is his ability to blend these diverse elements into something entirely his own.

In 2024, he debuted with "Final Horizon," a track inspired by a poignant journey to Italy. The song captures the bittersweet emotions of a journey’s end and earned him the Orpheus Music Award for Best Dance Act. This was followed by two EPs: "Don’t Stop The Music" and "Eyes of Love," both released in late 2024 and showcasing his versatility as an artist.

Kerian kicked off 2025 with his first-ever cover song, a reimagining of Metallica’s legendary hit “Nothing Else Matters.” Featuring the incredible vocals of Jaki Nelson, this synthpop reinvention is a masterclass in genre fusion. The song not only pays homage to Metallica but also introduces a fresh perspective that’s uniquely Kerian. I have mentioned it a few times on my podcast, but my first introduction to "good music" was bands like Guns & Roses, Metallica and Motely Crue so it was a great track to get my attention and I must say, I think Metallica themselves would appreciate this production.

At Melodic Playground Radio, we were thrilled to premiere this track a day early, giving our audience an exclusive first listen before the Friday release. Breaking new music is one of the greatest joys of my career, and sharing Kerian’s innovative take on such a beloved classic was a truly special moment and great addition to our station.

At Melodic Playground Radio, we don’t just play music—we champion artists. Kerian’s addition to our roster is a testament to our commitment to indie musicians. Over the next year, we’ll be working tirelessly to ensure that his music reaches as many ears as possible. 

Daily Airplay: Kerian’s best tracks will be featured daily on Melodic Playground Radio, giving listeners a regular dose of his artistry

In-Depth Magazine Feature: Our upcoming issue of Melodic Playground Magazine will take a deeper dive into his journey, influences, and creative process

Street Team Support: Both online and offline, our steam will be spreading the word about Kerian’s music, ensuring that his name is seen and heard regularly.

Kerian von Heyden represents everything we stand for at Melodic Playground: passion, creativity, and a fearless commitment to originality. His music isn’t just heard; it’s felt. Whether it’s the poignant storytelling of “Final Horizon” or the genre-defying brilliance of “Nothing Else Matters,” Kerian’s work resonates deeply with listeners. If you haven’t yet explored Kerian’s music, now is the time. Tune in to Melodic Playground Radio to hear his tracks, check out our upcoming magazine feature, and keep an eye out for our street team in your city. Kerian von Heyden is more than a rising star and you want to be sure to tap in and follow those links below

Pisces Life: Brand New Album from DJ Meladik

As the clock struck midnight and the world ushered in 2025, DJ Meladik, the creative force behind Melodic Playground Radio, marked the end of a turbulent chapter with the release of a deeply personal EP titled Pisces Life. Now available on all major platforms, the EP is an ode to survival, resilience, and the emotional journey of a Pisces navigating through a parched river of challenges.

For DJ Meladik, 2024 was a year marked by pain, growth, and perseverance. Reflecting on the journey, he describes the EP as an expression of the “pain of a Pisces drowning in a dry river, surviving from only the tears of my own eyes.” The music captures the raw emotions of isolation, struggle, and ultimately, triumph. Through these songs, listeners are invited to connect with the universal experience of enduring hardships and finding strength in their own vulnerability.

Each track on Pisces Life is a testament to DJ Meladik’s artistry and ability to turn personal struggles into powerful, relatable music. The melodies and lyrics intertwine to tell a story of endurance, offering hope to anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by life’s challenges.

With Pisces Life, DJ Meladik bids farewell to 2024 and embraces the promise of 2025 with optimism and gratitude. “I want to thank everyone who supported me through this journey,” DJ Meladik shared. “This EP is not just my story but a reflection of the shared human experience of facing difficulties and finding the courage to keep going.”

As we step into the new year, DJ Meladik extends their heartfelt wishes to fans and supporters around the globe. “May 2025 bring peace, joy, and endless possibilities to everyone. Remember, no matter how hard it gets, you have the strength to survive and thrive.”

Pisces Life is now streaming on all major platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. Fans can also connect with DJ Meladik on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes insights, and more.

This EP is more than a collection of songs; it’s a reminder that even in the darkest moments, art can be a beacon of light. DJ Meladik invites you to join them in celebrating resilience and the start of a brighter chapter.

Here’s to 2025—a year of new beginnings, creative growth, and inspiring stories. Happy New Year!

Diamonique and Dirty Birdy set the 2025 Standard

This Christmas, hip-hop fans in the Inland Empire and beyond received an unforgettable gift: the electrifying new single "Feelin’ Myself" by Diamonique featuring Dirty Birdy. These Inland Empire legends have united their immense talents to deliver a track that is already being hailed as one of the best the region has heard in years. And who else but Melodic Playground Radio could have the honor of breaking this instant classic?

From the moment the beat drops, "Feelin’ Myself" commands attention. Produced by Gr4ff and Nique, this talented team up cooked up an original recipe in the Diamond Cut Lab, perfecting a track that radiates authenticity and pure hip-hop energy. The seamless blend of Diamonique’s razor-sharp flow and Dirty Birdy’s Mutant lyrical ability, showcases why these artists have remained revered figures in the Inland Empire music scene. This is not just another song—it’s a celebration of real hip-hop, wrapped up not by elves but by Hip Hop Wizards that create with a love for the craft.

Melodic Playground Radio debuted "Feelin’ Myself" on Christmas Day, cementing its place as the ultimate holiday gift for hip-hop lovers. We’re thrilled to announce that this track is already in our station rotation and will continue to grace our airwaves daily throughout 2025. But that’s not all—the second issue of Melodic Playground Magazine also dropped today, featuring this monumental collaboration on its front cover and feature story.

As a platform dedicated to spotlighting exceptional talent, we’re pulling out all the stops to ensure "Feelin’ Myself" gets the recognition it deserves. Our 2025 street team will be working tirelessly to promote the track across the Inland Empire, while our online efforts aim to make it go viral. It’s time for the world to see what we’ve known all along: Diamonique and Dirty Birdy are the real deal.

"Feelin’ Myself" is a lyrical roller coaster ride. and a reminder that the Inland Empire continues to produce some of the finest talent in the game.

We encourage you to watch the music video linked below and share it far and wide. Let’s help Diamonique and Dirty Birdy achieve the viral recognition they’ve long deserved. And don’t forget to grab a copy of the latest issue of Melodic Playground Magazine for the full story behind this epic collaboration.

This Christmas, "Feelin’ Myself" is a gift for for the culture, for the Inland Empire, and for hip-hop lovers everywhere. Tune in, turn it up, and join us in celebrating this incredible moment in music.