Yet another edition of FOMAT is around the corner and for the first time in several years, Likatonia is returning to the competition--this time with one of Likatonia's most prominent singers. Particia Rosen, born in St.Jackson, Norwalk rose to fame thanks to her groovy and often melancholic music. Her focus on R&B and Soul from the eastern regions of Likatonia is the true reason for her almost overnight success. Rosen and her band of three saw their first, large-capacity performance in Arcadia where they played several songs and brought the venue to a sensational harmony. Rosen is not only a prime example of what Likatonia has to offer, but a clear representation of the nation itself. Rosen stated that her inspiration to write soul and R&B tunes came from the moments she spent in her apartment years ago, devastated from the effects of war. Rosen's inspiration came from the need "to feel something in a gloomy life". She notes that her depression and her nihilistic view on life thanks to the war, forced to seek different avenues of hope, of happiness--of the human soul. she began writing and singing at local jazz clubs and cafes, getting traction and attention on social media. Yet, Rosen's success is often attributed to her sincere, humble personality. While she is gaining a quick following and rising in national popularity, she says she "doesn't do it for the money", rather what she writes and performs is meant for the "healing and enrichment of our body and mind". 

Rosen and her trio of instrument players represent a deeper meaning for Likatonia--especially during the era of restoration. What is Likatonian music and who represents it? There are several genres that represent the nation, not just R&B and Soul. Country, regional, pop, Pirland Salsa, eastern blues, and rock are all major sounds from Likatonia, each with a different emotion and story to tell. Rosen will get the opportunity to represent Likatonia with her song: Hours of Passion. Hours of Passion is obviously a love song. A song about loving, of longing, and of rekindling past loves.  The lyrics are from the point of view of one professing her longing for a rekindling with an ex-lover. The song ties in an incredible bassline by bass player Donald Wilkins. Together with the extremely catchy snap-and-clap sounds, the song is immediately recognizable and addicting. Patricia Rosen's lyricism and combination of instruments leaves one longing for more. If this is what Likatonia will continue to send and represent itself, how better can it get? Many are already calling Rosen a "voice of a generation". A generation of course that has seen the ugly and soulless effects of war. Rosen carries with her a generation of Likatonian who are desperate to be heard and understood. FOMAT is simply the medium in which Likatonian culture can begin to thrive. When asked about her impact on Likatonian visibility, Rosen stated: "to me it doesn't really matter whether I win or lose, because at the end of the day it will always be a win for Likatonia. Our participation is there to show that we Likatonians are alive and we're ready to show off our beautiful culture and the many sounds and emotions that represent us all".