Keshi returned with lifted spirits for his new single “Say,” a groovy ode to delicate, romantic tension. It outlines a story of two lovers who are just out of reach of each other, waiting for the other to bravely return their feelings. Produced by Keshi, Elie Rizk, and Imad Royal, it is the first sonic glimpse into his upcoming sophomore album REQUIEM, available for listen on September 13th. Growing from the melancholic, acoustic vibes of GABRIEL, “Say” offers listeners a light, danceable experience; a newer territory for Keshi. He reiterates this transition, explaining “In all my attempts to make meaningful music, I overlooked songs that were built to just get people to move.” Through a new album and tour, Keshi aims to recognize this side of his ever-expanding artistry.
A warm, rounded synth loop opens the track, with a funky bassline shortly taking its place. Keshi’s gentle falsetto echoes beautifully as he sings his first verse.
Say it, say it
You do this all the time
No sense in holding back tonight
Keshi, “Say”
The song references city-pop in both sound and visuals, with expansive shots of Seoul, South Korea throughout the music video, and flourishing layers of piano and swingy guitar. As the track closes out, the memorable chorus repeats, fading to silence, ready to be played again. It is the type of melody one simply cannot get enough of.
Texas native Keshi, born Casey Luong, debuted in 2019 when he signed with Island Records, putting his oncology nursing career on pause. His first three EPs skeletons (2019), bandaids (2020), and always (2020) introduced the world to his immersive and intimate soundscape. Two years later, his massively popular LP GABRIEL reached new heights, amassing billions of streams and landing him in top positions in the Billboard 200 and Album Sales charts. After successfully selling out his first headline tour, Keshi will embark on a worldwide arena tour for REQUIEM, beginning this Fall. For more information on dates, locations, venues, and tickets, visit his website.
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