Music

Tropic’s “Boy” Is A Soulful Defiant Declaration of Queer Love and Unapologetic Pride.

Brooklyn-based Electro-R&B duo Tropic has once again unleashed their musical prowess with their latest single, “Boy.” As they gear up to release their upcoming EP, Tropic sets the stage for a remarkable musical journey with this gender-swapped cover of the Internet and Kaytranada’s ‘Girl.’ Released in perfect synchrony with Pride month, “Boy” explores and celebrates the queer experience, serving as a defiant declaration of queer love.

From the first note, Tropic’s velvety vocals and Phuse’s slick production create an electrifying fusion of R&B, pop, and funk elements. “Boy” encapsulates the essence of their unique sound, effortlessly blending soulful, powerhouse vocals with simmering neo-soul chords and an electrifying atmosphere. The result is a mesmerizing track that demands nothing less than outspoken pride.

Inspired by the original version of ‘Girl,’ which played a significant role in lead vocalist Jo-B Sebastian’s personal journey of self-acceptance, “Boy” pays homage to the LGBTQ+ community. It is a love letter dedicated to anyone who has ever felt afraid or ashamed of their identity or whom they love. Tropic’s rendition breathes new life into the song and solidifies it as an anthem of empowerment and visibility.

As Tropic continues to establish itself as a rising star in 2023, “Boy” showcases their undeniable talent and artistic growth. Their ability to blend heartfelt lyrics, catchy melodies, and thought-provoking themes sets them apart in the contemporary music scene.

“Boy” was released on all major music platforms on June 16th, Friday. The song encourages listeners to accept their true selves and celebrates love without hesitation. Tropic’s commitment to representing and empowering the LGBTQ+ community is evident in this impactful single, reminding us that love should always be celebrated with pride and never hidden.

Tropic’s “Boy” is a soulful anthem that resonates deeply, leaving an indelible mark on the R&B and pop music landscapes. With their unwavering dedication to creating impactful music, Tropic is undoubtedly a duo to watch, and this single serves as an exciting taste of what is yet to come on their forthcoming EP.

CLICK HERE TO STREAM Tropic’s “Boy” on Spotify.
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Artist Spotlight

KENTON journeys through family, identity and healing in “Sweetmouth (Sugar Free)” (EP)

“Sweetmouth (Sugar Free)” is an extremely reflective acoustic EP that guides you through its six tracks as it explores memory, identity, and emotional reconciliation. Created at a moment of deep discovery, the project reveals KENTON’s process of forgiving others, of realizing who he is within himself, and of internally processing what he experienced as a queer Asian American child growing up in the United States.

The EP opens with “I’m Breaking My Father’s Heart – Acoustic,” a gentle track about the disconnection between what parents desire and what you believe is true. “Never Born – Acoustic” is inward-looking, exploring the existential uncertainty of financial suffering at home and prayers that hang in the air, unanswered.

“Let Light In – Live” is a release that captures emotional awakening, where letting go of past pain is the first step toward recovery. “Without You – Acoustic” is one of the most affecting moments on the EP, which recounts a tough relationship with a sick father. “Wannabe American – Acoustic” laments the falseness of the American Dream and how it commodifies the Asian identity.

On the final song, “The Times – Acoustic,” KENTON directs strength toward a message of survival, hope, and endurance in an emotionally suffocating world. “Sweetmouth (Sugar Free)” is also the voice of the collective, and it’s a gift to immigrant and queer youth searching for belonging in spaces that often do not welcome them.

Photo credit: Ricky Chavez

Connect with KENTON on Website | Spotify | Instagram | TikTok

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Artist Spotlight

Terrell Journey rewinds emotion and identity in cinematic EP “Retrograde”

The new reflective R&B EP, “Retrograde” by Terrell Journey, transports us back to the emotional origins of his Journey Digital Supercharged universe. It’s a cinematic prequel defined by tension, clarity, and artistic reinvention.

As a prequel to the famed Journey Digital Supercharged collection, it builds on Terrell Journey’s vision of a musical universe with separate but connected story worlds beneath that umbrella in the Journey Digital Saga. This project is a shift in point of view, and “Retrograde” examines the moments before acceleration, the tension and clarity that happens before everything moves forward.

The EP’s opening track, “Me vs Me,” invites introspection and sets the stage for the project. “Tit 4 Tat” sharpens the tension, while “We Listen and Don’t Judge” creates a space cleared by honesty and emotional control. “Run A Boston” feels fast and intentional, harnessing the force of movement before the EP enters what is its most personal closing stretch.

“Steal Your Heart” is a melodic peak that combines emotional tug with elegant R&B textures. “Love” closes the EP on a warm, resonant note that sounds resolved and open-ended. “Retrograde” expands Terrell Journey’s kaleidoscopic world by making introspection a narrative, and it serves as a crucial link between reflection and the forward momentum of Journey Digital Saga.

The EP challenges you to consider themes of internal conflict, emotional honesty, and change. This continues to cement Terrell Journey’s track record for creating in-universe sets of R&B storytelling narratives.

Connect with Terrell Journey on Website | Spotify | Instagram | X | TikTok