Anaumali Reimagines the Fairytale Ending in “The Happy You Were After”

NY Weekly Staff on September 9, 2025

By: Matthew Kayser

From the quiet town of Westfield, NY, to the sprawling creative landscape of Los Angeles, Anaumali has long carried stories in his songs. His latest single, “The Happy You Were After,” releasing August 15, invites listeners into a layered, emotionally charged world built not just from memory, but from longing, imagination, and hope.

“I had written the initial hook and verses while I was traveling,” Anaumali recalls. “A lot of my music is inspired and pulled from the experiences in my own life, so with this song, I wanted to expand on that, not just make it autobiographical. I set out to create something that captured that fairytale ending feeling, while also remaining grounded in reality.”

That balance between fantasy and lived experience is at the heart of “The Happy You Were After.” It’s what gives the track its wistful, almost cinematic quality. Fans of Taylor Swift, The 1975, or Snow Patrol might find it especially resonant. There’s vulnerability in its narrative, but also a sense of optimism, as if the story hasn’t ended yet, and maybe that’s the point.

Helping bring that vision to life was songwriter Kyle Puccia, who co-wrote the track, and producer Oliver Lundstrom, known professionally as O Henry. For Anaumali, collaboration was key not only to shaping the sound but also to unlocking the final pieces of the story he was trying to tell.

“I had a mental block of what the rest of the song could be,” he explains. “I knew I loved the hook, I knew I loved aspects of the story, but I think I was in my own way. When I came back to it in 2025, I decided to just work through it, iterate, and do the legwork. Slowly but surely, things began coming together, and that’s when I approached Kyle. After our first writing session, where we bounced ideas back and forth, I rewrote entire parts in one evening. I finally knew what it needed to be.”

The song was completed more than a year after it first began, an unusual pace for Anaumali, who often writes in short, intense bursts. That creative arc mirrors the emotional one: a slow-building journey that leads to something whole and meaningful, not because it’s perfect, but because it’s true to where he is now.

“It was incredibly refreshing to write something that felt like I was writing what I hoped for, rather than something I went through,” he says. “At the end of it all, the music I write doesn’t stay mine. It evolves and becomes something more once it releases.”

That evolution is part of why this release feels so significant. Not only is it the lead single, but it also serves as the album’s title track, a symbolic anchor for a body of work that appears to explore similar emotional terrain. “It just adds to the incredible amount of satisfaction and pride I have in it,” Anaumali shares. “It’s something that genuinely feels like me as an artist, and I couldn’t be more excited for people to finally hear it.”

With a sound that blends emotional storytelling, pop sensibility, and a bit of wonder, Anaumali is carving out his own lane. It’s a space where sincerity and ambition coexist, and where songs are built to connect.

And while he’s still early in this chapter, the dream is big. When asked about future collaborators, he doesn’t hesitate. “I would be beyond excited if I got to work with Taylor Swift one day,” he laughs. “But I wouldn’t be mad at working with The National or Carly Rae Jepsen either.”

As “The Happy You Were After” prepares to make its way into the world, Anaumali stands not just as a storyteller but as an artist in full bloom. He’s ready to move beyond what’s been lived and toward what’s still possible.

Discover more about Anaumali and his journey through his music by following him on Instagram and listening to his tracks on Spotify.

From Asia to the World: AMIF 2025 Returns to Boston to Redefine the Future of Music Industry Exchange

NY Weekly Staff on September 9, 2025

The second Asian Music Industry Festival (AMIF) is officially set for November 15–16, 2025, in Boston, marking a powerful return to the international stage. This year’s edition introduces a broader scope and elevated content, once again uniting global industry pioneers with rising creative talent to drive deeper integration between Asian music and the world’s cultural ecosystem. Anchored by the new brand concept “I AM IFs,” AM represents the echo of our identity, the resonant chords of the present. At the same time, IFs embodies the sound of our infinity, the unheard melodies of the future.

AMIF 2025 will unfold over two days with a concentrated program lineup. Highlights include various panels, industry recruitment, cross-genre showcases, awards presentations, signing ceremonies, and an international music industry gala. Together, these avant-garde experiences will nurture a world-class cultural platform for the next generation of creators.

2025 AMIF: Sharper, Bolder, and Ahead of the Curve

 This year, AMIF introduces new workshops and immersive pop-up experiences exploring the fusion of technology and art. The MIT Immersion Lab will collaborate with a group of traditional Chinese folk musicians and dancers on an experimental workshop that bridges performance practices with immersive technology. Audiences can also expect interactive installations and real-time generative art showcases, with surprise elements revealed closer to the festival.

Festival panels are expanding with a bold new scope, diving into the latest frontiers in music, technology, and culture. Topics include billion-stream distribution strategies, live performance market solutions, record label positioning, the influence of variety shows, opportunities in film and television scoring, the global trajectory of K-pop, the rise of the super-fan economy, and new approaches to content globalization.

These panels will bring together senior leaders from global record labels, tech platforms, talent agencies, marketing firms, producers, policymakers, acclaimed artists, and arts institutions for an intensive exchange of ideas and insights. Keynotes and discussions will give young musicians, creators, and professionals direct access to industry leaders. Sessions will look beyond creativity and distribution to examine the engines shaping music’s future—from platform mechanics and algorithms to market dynamics and fan ecosystems. 

New Awards at AMIF 2025 – Celebrating the Voices Powering Real Transformation

 Continuing the tradition of its first edition, AMIF 2025 will again host its core programs while introducing the new “AM” and “IFs” Awards, created to spotlight voices and innovations making a tangible impact on the music industry.

The “AM” Award will honor artists whose work has achieved broad and lasting influence, while the “IF” Award will recognize emerging and independent talents whose originality signals the future. Evaluation will focus on professional standards and industry contribution, moving beyond popularity to celebrate those driving genuine change and cultural progress. 

AMIF 2023 Recap — A New Starting Point for Creative Convergence 

The inaugural AMIF took place in Boston in 2023, built around the vision of “Harmonizing Cultures, Bridging Industries: Music as the Universal Language”. The event brought together prominent performers and industry leaders from both East and West, drawing an enthusiastic response on site and earning multiple official recognitions from the governor of Massachusetts, the mayor, and the city council president of Boston.

AMIF Concert Night: A Showcase of Asian Artistry 

Chinese pop singer Shan Yichun took the stage at the Citizens House of Blues Boston as the finale act of the 2023 AMIF Concert night, delivering her powerful Western stage debut with a voice that resonated deeply with the audience and infused the evening with the spirit of Asian artistry. A venue that has long welcomed international icons such as Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, John Mayer, and B.B. King, and now carries new significance with the arrival of Asian musicians. The lineup brought together over 100 artists representing Malaysia, Indonesia, India, China, and many more.

Asian Music Industry Recruitment Event · Creating Pathways for the Next Generation

As part of the festival, the Asian Music Industry Recruitment Event, presented by the Music Industry Promotion Committee, brought together over a dozen leading companies from China alongside top North American music institutions. Participants included Sony Music (China), MIDI Music Group, Bymoon Entertainment, and other leading firms. Nearly 40 job openings were offered across records, production, live events, publishing, and technology, creating a high-efficiency platform for young people worldwide to engage directly with industry leaders.

Among the highlights of the inaugural AMIF were three special events and five panels linking music, technology, and culture. The Sound of Film featured Grammy- and Emmy-winning composer Claudio Ragazzi, composer Tim Huling, producer Zhang Yuming, The Wandering Earth assistant director Ke Ke, and director Su Lei, who discussed the ties between music and visual media. The Journey of Music brought strategist Christopher Wares, singer Shan Yichun, and young entrepreneurs together to consider AI, global circulation, and the balance of artistry and visibility. In partnership with the Harvard Venture Club, the Music Venture Forum explored NFTs, Web3, and the Metaverse, featuring insights from George Howard and Gracy Chen. Five additional panels addressed digital art, pop, music education, Asian folk, and cross-disciplinary practice, creating a transnational arena for experimentation and dialogue.

The success of AMIF 2023 established a foundation for cultural exchange and international reach. In 2025, the festival returns with an expanded reach and a more forward-looking vision, continuing to advance dialogue between Asian music and the global creative industries, and bringing to the world stage a richer, more imaginative spectrum of Asian voices. Under the theme “I AM IFs”. “AM” is the echo of our identity—the resonant chords of the present. “IFs” is the sound of our infinity—the unheard melodies from the future. Without sound, identity has no echo; But when a note is struck, a world takes form—where the “I” finds its echo, and the “ifs” sparks its harmony. The 2025 Asian Music Industry Festival extends an open invitation to the world to join this encounter between sound and the future.

Disclaimer: The Asian Music Industry Festival (AMIF) 2025 is an event organized by its respective hosts and partners. The content presented is subject to change based on the event’s schedule and the availability of participants. All trademarks, logos, and event details are the property of their respective owners. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement or guarantee of any event or participant’s involvement. Please refer to the official AMIF website for the most up-to-date details.

What Should Digital Nomads Know Before Applying for a Loan in Singapore?

NY Weekly Staff on September 9, 2025

Applying for a loan in Singapore as a digital nomad can present unique challenges. Without a fixed income or CPF contributions, eligibility often depends on proving reliable earnings through contracts, invoices, or bank statements. To increase the chances of approval, digital nomads must show consistent income and choose lenders familiar with flexible work arrangements.

Some licensed moneylenders and financial institutions may offer options tailored for freelancers and remote workers, including products like a cash loan without paperwork that could streamline the process. However, borrowing without fully understanding interest rates, fees, and repayment terms can potentially lead to financial strain. Careful preparation can help avoid these pitfalls.

By knowing what lenders expect and how to present financial stability, digital nomads might be able to access the funds they need while managing unnecessary stress. This approach can allow them to focus on their work and lifestyle in Singapore while maintaining healthy financial footing.

Essential Loan Considerations for Digital Nomads in Singapore

Digital nomads applying for personal loans in Singapore should understand the eligibility rules, the types of loans available, and the actual costs beyond the advertised rates. Lenders assess risk on a case-by-case basis, and requirements often vary, so knowing what to prepare and what to expect can help prevent unnecessary delays or rejections.

Eligibility Requirements and Documentation

Most banks and licensed moneylenders in Singapore generally require applicants to show proof of identity, proof of income, and proof of address. For foreigners, a valid passport, employment pass, or long-term visit pass is usually mandatory. Income verification is typically from salary slips, tax statements, or bank account records. Lenders may set minimum income thresholds, which may differ for residents and non-residents.

Digital nomads without a fixed employer may face more scrutiny. Freelancers or remote workers should prepare consistent income records, such as bank statements from the past 6–12 months, to demonstrate financial stability. Without this documentation, approval chances could be reduced.

Types of Personal Loans and Their Suitability

Borrowers in Singapore may choose between secured loans and unsecured loans. A secured loan requires collateral, such as property or fixed deposits, which could reduce interest rates but carries the risk of asset loss if repayment fails. An unsecured loan does not require collateral but usually comes with stricter income requirements and higher interest rates. This option is common for digital nomads, provided they meet the minimum income criteria.

Some banks also offer short-term personal loans or credit lines with flexible repayment schedules. These may suit freelancers with irregular income, as they allow for partial repayment when cash flow improves. However, the convenience could come with higher costs. Choosing the right loan depends on income stability, residency status, and whether the borrower can provide collateral. Digital nomads should evaluate repayment ability carefully before committing to a product.

Interest Rates, EIR, and Associated Fees

Loan costs in Singapore are not only limited to the advertised interest rate. Lenders calculate the Effective Interest Rate (EIR), which reflects the true borrowing cost after accounting for processing fees and repayment schedules. For example, a loan with a 6% nominal rate might have an EIR of 7–8% once fees and compounding are included. Borrowers should always compare EIRs rather than headline rates.

Common charges may include a processing fee (typically 1–3% of the loan amount), late payment penalties, and early repayment fees. Some lenders also may impose administrative costs for loan restructuring. Loan tenure also affects affordability. Shorter terms reduce total interest but increase monthly installments, while longer terms lower monthly payments but raise overall costs. Digital nomads with variable income might prefer flexible repayment options even if the EIR is slightly higher.

Managing Approval, Repayment, and Financial Health

Borrowers in Singapore need to understand how lenders assess their applications, how repayment structures affect long-term financial stability, and what costs could arise from changing payment schedules. Paying careful attention to approval criteria, consolidation options, and penalty fees can help ensure responsible borrowing and sustainable debt management.

Loan Approval Process and Credit Evaluation

Lenders in Singapore rely heavily on credit reports, income documentation, and existing debt obligations when reviewing applications. For digital nomads, irregular income streams can complicate this process, making proof of stable earnings essential. Providing tax statements, bank records, or long-term client contracts could strengthen an application.

Credit evaluation also considers the Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR), which limits the portion of monthly income that can go toward loan repayments. If a borrower exceeds this threshold, approval may be unlikely. Foreign applicants might face stricter requirements, such as higher minimum income levels or additional guarantor arrangements. Digital nomads should prepare by maintaining consistent savings, reducing unnecessary debt, and ensuring their credit history is free of defaults.

Debt Consolidation Options

For borrowers managing multiple loans or credit card balances, a Debt Consolidation Plan (DCP) might offer a structured repayment path. Licensed financial institutions in Singapore provide these plans, which roll unsecured debts into a single loan with fixed monthly payments.

This approach could simplify repayment and may come with lower interest rates compared to revolving credit. However, eligibility usually requires that the borrower’s unsecured debt is at least 12 times their monthly income and that they meet residency or employment criteria. Digital nomads considering a DCP should evaluate whether the repayment schedule aligns with their income flow. They should also compare terms across banks, as fees, interest rates, and repayment flexibility may vary. Careful selection can prevent further financial strain.

Digital nomads in Singapore should carefully review loan types, eligibility, and repayment terms before applying. Attention to interest rates, fees, and required documents can help prevent unnecessary costs and delays. By comparing lenders, preparing documentation, and budgeting for repayments, digital nomads can use loans as a practical tool to manage cash flow and support their lifestyle in Singapore.

 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. Loan eligibility, terms, and conditions may vary depending on the lender and individual circumstances. We recommend consulting with a licensed financial advisor or the relevant financial institution before making any decisions regarding loans.

Estate Planning for Retirees: Key Considerations and Steps for 2025

NY Weekly Staff on September 9, 2025

Retirement is supposed to bring peace. But without an estate plan, things can become complicated quickly.

You’ve spent decades building your life, your home, and your savings. It’s important to take steps to protect these things. An overlooked document or an outdated beneficiary can lead to unnecessary court involvement.

And here’s something many people overlook: estate planning isn’t solely about death. It’s about ensuring your wishes are respected while you’re still alive. If you’re unable to make decisions due to illness or incapacity, who steps in to make those decisions? Who handles your finances? Who speaks on your behalf?

This guide offers a simple breakdown of what you need to consider, including potential risks and proactive steps you can take.

Why Estate Planning Matters for Retirees

Estate planning isn’t just about finances. It’s about ensuring peace of mind, exercising control, and providing for your family.

Without a plan:

  • Your estate could go through probate, which may take time and be costly in states like New York and Florida. For smaller estates, Texas has a simpler process.

  • Family disagreements can arise. In places like California, where community property laws complicate inheritance, blended families may face challenges.

  • If you fall ill and cannot make decisions, courts may appoint someone to manage your affairs. Massachusetts, for example, frequently sees guardianship proceedings when no one is appointed.

These are just some of the legal repercussions of dying without a will, especially in states with complex probate systems.

With a plan:

  • You retain control over how and when your assets are distributed.

  • Trusted individuals are designated to handle responsibilities.

  • Your family is spared from unnecessary court involvement.

At this stage in life, having a plan isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.

Step 1: Define Your Goals

Every successful estate plan begins with clarity. Consider: What do you want your legacy to look like?

Common goals for retirees may include:

  • Ensuring the financial security of a spouse

  • Supporting grandchildren’s education

  • Contributing to a charitable cause

  • Protecting a family member who requires special assistance

  • Minimizing taxes or avoiding probate

State-specific factors:

  • California: Community property laws can influence how assets are divided between spouses.

  • New York: Probate laws make trusts particularly helpful.

  • Florida: Lady Bird deeds offer a way to pass property outside probate, providing a potential shortcut.

Think of this step as mapping out your legacy—you’re determining your destinations before planning the path to get there.

Step 2: Take Stock of What You Own

Before drafting any documents, take a detailed inventory of your assets and liabilities.

Assets could include:

  • Real estate, bank accounts, investments, and retirement accounts

  • Life insurance, business interests, and digital assets

Liabilities might involve:

  • Mortgages, car loans, credit card debts, and personal loans

State-specific factors:

  • Texas: Recognizes Transfer-on-Death (TOD) deeds for real estate.

  • Florida: Allows Lady Bird deeds to transfer property.

  • Massachusetts: Lacks these options, making trusts especially useful.

Think of this as unpacking your estate “backpack.” Review what’s inside, then organize it to make things simpler for your loved ones later.

Step 3: Know the Core Documents

Here are important legal documents that should be part of any retiree’s estate plan:

  • Last Will and Testament: Names heirs and an executor. (In New York, two witnesses are required; handwritten wills may be valid in California.)

  • Revocable Living Trust: Helps avoid probate and gives you control over asset distribution. This is especially useful in states like Florida and California.

  • Durable Power of Attorney: Appoints someone to manage finances if you become incapacitated. (Texas uses standard forms; Florida requires detailed powers.)

  • Health Care Directive / Living Will: Specifies your medical wishes. (In Massachusetts, a Health Care Proxy is used; California combines directives with HIPAA releases.)

  • HIPAA Authorization: Allows access to your medical records.

These documents provide the foundation of your estate plan.

Step 4: Choose Your Fiduciaries

Your fiduciaries are the individuals responsible for carrying out your plan. It’s important to select people you trust.

You’ll likely need to name:

  • Executor (for your will)

  • Trustee (for your trust)

  • Power of Attorney agent

  • Health Care Proxy or Surrogate

  • Guardian (for dependents)

State-specific factors:

  • California: Out-of-state executors may need to post a bond.

  • Florida: Non-residents can generally serve only if they are related by blood or marriage.

This decision is based on trust more than expertise. Choose individuals who are reliable, steady, and share your values.

Step 5: Review Beneficiary Designations

Beneficiary forms for retirement accounts, insurance policies, and payable-on-death accounts override wills and trusts.

For instance: In New York, if your ex-spouse is still listed as a beneficiary on your IRA, they would inherit it, regardless of what your will specifies.

Update these designations after major life events like marriage, divorce, or relocation.

Step 6: Reduce Taxes and Avoid Probate

Estate taxes can differ significantly by state:

  • Federal exemption (2025): $13.61 million per person

  • Florida, Texas, California: No estate or inheritance tax

  • New York: $6.94 million exemption

  • Massachusetts: $2 million exemption

Possible strategies:

  • Annual gifting (up to $18,000 per recipient in 2025)

  • Irrevocable trusts

  • Charitable contributions

  • Ownership structures that avoid probate

An estate planning attorney and tax advisor can help tailor these strategies to your situation.

Step 7: Plan for Incapacity and Long-Term Care

Nearly 70% of retirees will require some form of long-term care. Planning ahead can prevent financial strain and reduce stress for your family.

Key tools include:

  • Durable Power of Attorney

  • Health Care Proxy or Living Will

  • Long-term care insurance or Medicaid planning

State-specific factors:

  • Florida: Retirees often plan well in advance to protect assets.

  • Massachusetts and New York: Stricter Medicaid rules and longer look-back periods.

This step isn’t only about your estate. It’s about maintaining your dignity and minimizing burdens on your loved ones.

Step 8: Keep Your Plan Current

Life changes. Your estate plan should evolve as well. Review it every two to three years, or after significant life changes like marriage, divorce, relocation, or the death of a family member.

Moving between states? Be aware that your documents might not automatically transfer. For instance:

  • A Florida Power of Attorney might not meet California’s requirements.

  • A New York Health Care Proxy isn’t valid in Texas.

Think of your plan as a living document—it grows and adapts with your life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 5 or 5 rule in estate planning?

The “5 or 5 rule” refers to a trust provision that allows a beneficiary to withdraw the greater of $5,000 or 5% of the trust’s assets each year. This rule is often used in irrevocable trusts to balance control and tax efficiency while offering limited access to the funds.

What are the disadvantages of estate planning?

While estate planning offers many advantages, there are some drawbacks:

  • Initial costs: Legal fees for creating trusts and wills can add up.

  • Complexity: Large or blended families may need more detailed planning.

  • Maintenance: Estate plans require updates over time to stay relevant.

  • Potential for confusion: Outdated or incomplete plans can lead to legal challenges.

Despite these concerns, the benefits of a thoughtful estate plan typically outweigh the challenges.

What does an estate planning attorney do?

An estate planning attorney assists you in creating a strategy for managing your assets during your lifetime and distributing them after your passing. Their services include:

  • Drafting wills, trusts, and powers of attorney

  • Offering advice on tax strategies and probate

  • Helping prevent disputes among family members

  • Ensuring compliance with state-specific laws

Is estate planning tax-deductible?

Generally, the costs of estate planning are not tax-deductible for individuals. However, if you’re managing a business or income-producing property, some costs could qualify for deductions. A tax advisor can help clarify what applies to your situation.

Are estate planning fees tax-deductible?

Estate planning fees are usually considered personal expenses and are generally not deductible on your federal tax return. However, fees related to managing income-producing property or trust administration may be deductible for the trust or estate itself. Consult a tax professional for specifics.

Summary: Take Control of Your Legacy

Estate planning offers retirees a way to not only protect assets but also to reduce family conflicts and ensure their voice is heard, even after they’re gone. Whether your estate is simple or complex, the important thing is to begin early, plan thoughtfully, and make regular updates.

For those in Florida, working with a local estate planning attorney can be particularly beneficial, given the state’s unique advantages, such as no estate tax and the use of Lady Bird deeds.

If you’re in the South Atlantic region, our guide to the 6 estate law firms for families in the South Atlantic highlights trusted firms serving Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C.

The peace of mind that comes with a well-structured estate plan is invaluable. Your legacy isn’t just about what you leave behind; it’s about how smoothly you leave it.

Now is the time to take action. Build a plan that reflects your life, values, and future.

 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, financial, or investment advice. Every individual’s situation is unique, and the strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone. We strongly recommend consulting with a qualified estate planning attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional to address your specific needs and circumstances.

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