HomeTown Search – A Day in St. Gallen!

This month we have been busy researching and discovering new places only an hour away by train from our city, Zurich. We are looking for a new home town after 30 decades!

We have been in St. Gallen only once, back in the winter of 2001. It wasn’t an easy time for us to survive life alone in Lucerne with all the obstacles and challenges. We couldn't enjoy our stay. It is all written in my memoir The Stolen Years in Zurich, so I’m not going to say more.

Now, it was time to visit this interesting town and seriously consider it as our new home, because of the great location. What we loved the most, is the abbey right in the heart of the town. It is huge and beautiful from inside and outside. Really magnificent architecture and definitely worth a visit.

However, after doing more research, we realized that the city doesn’t offer the benefits that we have in Zurich. So unfortunately, our search for a new hometown continues…

Like in Solothurn, you find all kinds of national and international brands and can book tourist activities at the Tourism office.

We give St.Gallen 4 stars out of 5!

HomeTown Search – A Day in Solothurn!

This month we have been busy researching and discovering new places only an hour away by train from our city, Zurich. We are looking for a new home town after 30 decades!

I can’t believe that we never visited this gorgeous little baroque town before. It really is like a fairytale and definitely worth a visit. The most impressive buildings are the two churches in the heart of the little downtown. The St. Ursen Cathedral and The Jesuit Church, thought to be one of the most beautiful baroque buildings in Switzerland. 

We can picture how gorgeous this place looks in winter with Christmas lighting and the smell of Christmas cookies, sweets, and hot chocolate in all the little coffee shops and restaurants. You also find all kinds of national brands despite the small size of the downtown.

We really enjoyed our day trip and could imagine living there if this town wasn’t on the top list of crime statistics in Switzerland. This is unfortunately a deal-breaker!

But if you visit Switzerland and love Baroque as much as we do, take the direct train from Zurich Main station and dive into a little fairytale for a day while enjoying ice cream in the summer next to the lake and hot chocolate in one of the many little coffee shops in winter!

We give Solothurn 5 stars out of 5 despite the criminal numbers!

Amuse.io - The damages are beyond disgusting!

SIGN THE PETITION!

Disgusting treatment! Corrupt company policy! Wasting artists time! 

SHAMEFUL! 
HANDS AWAY FROM THIS COMPANY!

Artists as you know by now, my previous distributor AMUSE has caused me a lot of damage in the previous months by closing my artist account from one day to another without informing me WHY for weeks!

The more time goes by, the more I see the damages they have created by denying me access to my account and taking down my tracks. It is beyond upsetting. 

I don’t understand how people allow themselves to treat other people like shit and just go away with it! Such unkind, cruel, unprofessional, and unacceptable, disgusting treatment should have consequences! 

Not only was I accused of false allegations, but now I see that so much time and effort that I have put into my music promotion was thrown into the toilet! Disgusting!

One example is adding my song lyrics to my song releases through Musicmatch. Hours of work just gone because of the most corrupt distribution company on earth that I’ve trusted blindly for 2 years!

While my songs are released again (only in selected stores for now!), the lyrics are no longer available on social media like Instagram and in stores such as Spotify.

Well, I'm not gone invest more time in adding lyrics when they can be removed that easily! I’m glad that I have released my album Legacy4Humanity on Bandcamp.com. And I’m grateful to know the song, the cover, and the lyrics are all safe and sound in one place and can only be removed by me, the copyright holder!

#RespectIndieArtistsWork - My Take Downs!

After two years, I finally have an insight into the streaming numbers and store payments according to my previous corrupt distributor amuse.io statement. I don’t trust them, and therefore I can’t say if any of it is legit and 100% reliable. However, the numbers have been eye-opening and a wake-up call! 

Let me make something clear. I have never ever started the journey as an indie writer and lyricist to make a profit, even though I like anyone else need to make an income while living in one of the most expensive cities in the world.

My main goal from the start with writing and publishing books and writing and releasing music has been raising awareness about delicate topics close to my heart. If I were a fortune & fame hunter, I should have stopped writing, publishing, and releasing already after my first book (my memoir DESTINATION FREEDOM back in 2014) and my first song release “80 Million People, Lily Amis feat. Thir13een" back in 2022.

But I’m an artist, and most artists survive this corrupt world, unpleasant reality and disgusting society by being creative in their field of interest. We do it because we love it despite the outcome and respond. 

Knowing that we won’t see any profit, the least we can expect is at least some respect and dignity! After my recent awful and unlawful experience and disgusting treatment by the Swedish distribution company amuse.io based in Stockholm, I have started the online petition #RespectIndieArtistsWork to warn other indie artists before they have to go through the same BS treatment as I have after two years of “partnership” with a company whose policy is to disrespect, insult and accuse indie-artists!

My takeaway from this BS treatment: I have taken down my music from Amazon Music, Apple/iTunes, Audiomack, and SoundCloud for NOW! I am considering taking down my tracks from more stores in the upcoming months! I have too much self-respect for myself as a human being and for my wonderful tracks to allow anyone to disrespect me and my work ever again.

Why these stores? I tell you why. 

Amazon Music for Artists is the most user-unfriendly platform of all. You can't contact anyone and get a proper answer.

Apple and iTunes are also difficult to contact and show zero respect toward artists' requests. 

Audiomack, because I had to write several emails until they finally did their job.

SoundCloud was the only store that did what I asked for without hesitation, but because of the lack of numbers and followers, I chose to close my account once and for all.

I no longer plant flowers in people’s gardens who don’t water them 

= 

I no longer make my music available in stores that don’t appreciate them

Why should I continue to bring traffic to websites/platforms with nothing in return? Why?

Music is healing. Unfortunately, the music business side is exhausting and disgusting because of the lack of respect, honesty, and transparency! 

I hope you never have to experience what I have in the recent weeks and can continue your journey with joy, positive vibes, and hopes as this journey should be! Keep up the great work! 

#RespectIndieArtistsWork - Article by Toneflame music blog!

Respect Indie Artists Work - by ToneFlame 

Lily Amis, an artist with a fervent dedication to social justice, has also embarked on a new mission, one that resonates deeply within the heart of the independent music industry. With her petition #RespectIndieArtistsWork hosted on GoPetition, she strives to illuminate and reform the unjust distribution system that plagues independent musicians.

In a remarkable twist of fate, Lily’s journey into activism commenced with a previous petition, #HumanityB4Nationality, advocating for the rights of refugees. Now, as she unveils her latest musical endeavor, the album Legacy4Humanity, she finds herself once again on the digital frontlines, spearheading a cause close to her heart.

With unwavering determination, Lily endeavors to amplify the voices of indie artists who pour their essence into their craft, often without the support of labels, managers, or legal teams. Through her petition, she sheds light on the staggering disparity between the toil and dedication invested by indie artists and the scant rewards they receive in return.

The name of her petition, “Respect Indie Artists Work,” encapsulates the essence of her crusade. Lily emphasizes that it’s not merely about respecting the music itself but acknowledging the sheer labor and sacrifice that underpin each release. Independent artists are not only creators but also their own promoters, managers, and publicists, navigating the complex landscape of media and social media promotion with limited resources, while earning far less than even the most modestly paid professions.

Through her petition, Lily aims to spark a transformative dialogue, advocating for a fairer, more equitable ecosystem where indie artists receive the recognition and compensation they rightfully deserve. 

Go and read the petition details and help champion the cause of indie artists here!

Legacy4Humanity Album - BOWLING & other tracks!

Lily Amis ft. Thir13een – ‘BOWLING’ from the album ‘LEGACY4HUMANITY’

In a world often overshadowed by chaos and strife, where the whispers of humanity’s plight echo through the corridors of time, emerges a beacon of hope, a testament to resilience, empathy, and the unyielding spirit of the human heart. Lily Amis, a luminary in the realm of indie writing and lyrical prowess, alongside the maestro of sound and performance, producer Warren Young aka singer-rapper Thir13een, unveils their magnum opus, ‘LEGACY4HUMANITY’. 

This transcendent collection of songs is not merely an album but a chronicle of the human experience, a tapestry woven with threads of compassion, introspection, and a profound call to action. Inspired by the cavernous depths of human suffering and the indomitable will to rise above, ‘LEGACY4HUMANITY’ is a testament to the power of music as a catalyst for change.

At its core, ‘LEGACY4HUMANITY’ is a mosaic of 13 meticulously crafted tracks, each a poignant reflection of the human condition, from the haunting strains of R&B to the pulsating rhythms of rap, from the soul-stirring melodies of pop to the raw energy of hip-hop. Let us embark on a journey through the chapters of this opus, where every note is a brushstroke painting the canvas of our shared humanity.

The album opens with ‘80 MILLION PEOPLE’, an R&B anthem that echoes the silent cries of the forgotten. It serves as a poignant tribute to the resilience of refugees worldwide. Through Lily Amis’ poignant lyrics and Thir13een’s soul-stirring vocals, this track transcends borders, reminding us of the human stories obscured by statistics.

Amidst the clamor of discord, ‘BLOOD IS ALWAYS RED’ emerges as an anti-war hymn, a fervent plea for acceptance, tolerance, and unity. Against the backdrop of societal turbulence, Lily Amis and Thir13een beckon us to embrace the common threads that bind us as one human family.

Inspired by the memoirs etched in the annals of time, ‘THE STOLEN YEARS’ stands as a testament to the sanctity of time and the imperative of charting our destinies. Through mellifluous melodies and introspective verses, this track implores us not to relinquish control of our lives to the hands of fate.

A melodic ode to resilience and faith, ‘THE THREE OF US’ beckons to the weary souls adrift in the tempest of life’s trials. As Lily Amis’ poignant lyrics intertwine with Thir13een’s soulful cadence, a symphony of hope emerges, reminding us that even in our darkest hours, we are never alone.

In a world rife with power struggles and deceit, ‘YOYO & CHESS’ serves as a clarion call for liberation. Through incisive rap verses and unbridled passion, Lily Amis and Thir13een urge us to reclaim our autonomy and resist the machinations of those who seek to manipulate our destinies.

A homage to maternal love and sacrifice, ‘SIMA’ unfurls like a tapestry of adoration and reverence. ‘SIMA’ is Lily’s mother’s name and stands, among other things, for Strong Independent Mom And so much more. Set against a backdrop of 80s-inspired pop melodies, this heartfelt tribute celebrates the unsung heroes who nurture life’s precious flame.

In a world marred by indifference, ‘TASTELESS BREAKFAST’ emerges as a rallying cry against complacency. Through stirring harmonies and evocative lyrics, Lily Amis and Thir13een implore us to confront the harsh realities of homelessness and hunger with empathy and action.

Amidst the clamor of apathy, ‘MY MISSION’ resounds as a clarion call for activism and compassion. Through impassioned vocals and resolute conviction, Lily Amis and Thir13een ignite the flames of change, urging us to become proactive in an inhumane scoiety and be the voices for the voiceless.

Against the backdrop of disparity, ‘MY VISION’ emerges as an anthem of gratitude and awareness. Through ethereal melodies and introspective verses, this track serves as a poignant reminder of our collective responsibility to uplift those in need. This track is also an endorsement for two great charities – The Christoffel Blind Mission Switzerland and SMILE TRAIN UK.

Inspired by the transcendent power of the short story “LENNON, THE MIRACLE OF MUSIC” by Lily Amis, ‘THE MIRACLE OF MUSIC’ beckons us to embrace unity and harmony. As Lily Amis’ evocative prose intertwines with Thir13een’s stirring vocals, a symphony of peace unfurls, bridging the chasms that divide us.

A cathartic exploration of resilience and renewal, ‘PING PONG & PUZZLE’ serves as a testament to the transformative power of letting go of toxic people and painful experiences. Through buoyant pop melodies and introspective lyrics, Lily Amis and Thir13een invite us to release the burdens of our past and embrace the promise of tomorrow.

Amidst the ache of displacement, ‘HOMETOWN’ emerges as a poignant lament for the lost and the lonely. Set against a backdrop of haunting piano driven melodies, this track speaks to the anguish of exile and the enduring quest for belonging in foreign countries with hostile societal environments.

In a world ensnared by greed and deceit, ‘BOWLING’ stands as a defiant anthem against the forces of tyranny. Through impassioned rap verses and unyielding resolve, Lily Amis and Thir13een challenge us to reject the siren song of power and embrace the true measure of wealth – compassion. It also criticizes the mainstream media, which frequently abuses its influence, manipulates, and inundates us with sensationalized falsehoods and misleading narratives.

Moreover, explains Lily Amis, “The Bowling ball symbolizes the bombs in war that destroy countries and kill people. The ten pins standing and looking at the bowling ball rolling towards them symbolize our incapable world leaders who wait, watch, and don’t stop the bloody wars and madness because they are making a fortune!”

The Bonus track, ‘SECRET ANGELS’ is a tender tribute to the unsung heroes among us. The song resonates as a hymn of gratitude and recognition. Through heartfelt melodies and soul-stirring vocals, Lily Amis and Thir13een honor the everyday saints who grace our lives with their selfless acts of kindness.

In the tapestry of human existence, ‘LEGACY4HUMANITY’ emerges as a luminous thread, weaving together the disparate strands of our collective journey. Through Lily Amis’ poignant lyricism, Thir13een’s evocative melodies, and Warren Young’s exquisite music production, this opus stands as a testament to the enduring power of music to uplift, inspire, and ignite the flames of change. Join them on this transformative journey as Lily Amis and Thir13een unlock the legacy of humanity, one song at a time.

Legacy4Humanity Album - Tuneloud Magazine Cover April 2024!

The previous two months have been very eye-opening and extremely challenging. It was emotionally exhausting, and I am annoyed for weeks about the lack of respect, transparency and fairness in this corrupt streaming industry! 

As you have seen on this blog, on Instagram and on Twitter, I have started an online petition demanding more RESPECT for indie artists work worldwide #RespectIndiArtistsWork. 

I feel that the upcoming changes by Spotify and other stores are a sign that they are realizing that indie artists are not a bunch of clueless, naive, stupid dreamers! We see what is happening, and we stand up and raise our voice! We demand the respect that we deserve! 

All these distributors and music stores are nothing and no one without the hard work, passion and love for music daily produced, published and promoted by the amazing indie artist community. 

Like the British Post Office Scandal, this corrupt global streaming system will fail soon. They no longer can insult and disrespect indie artists with false and fraud accusations using AI as an excuse to take down tracks, closing artist accounts and keeping royalties to themselves! It is criminal, and these people soon have to be taken accountable for their awful and unlawful actions and treatment!

While I'm fighting this system along other incredible indies, I'm happy and exited to share the Tuneloud Music Magazine Cover from April/May 2024! Thir13een and I are on the cover of this great indie music magazine, promoting our album Legacy4Humanity in a 4-page feature in the print and digital edition. This cover is a highlight and celebration of a dream-team collaborating for two years!