New York, NY (Top40 Charts) Oliver Francis is giving the world something it has never heard before - perfectly meshing together melodic hip-hop, trap, and pop. Earlier this year, he kicked the door open to his new era with "Toxic Paradise" and today, he is gracing fans with "STAR."
After amassing 100 million-plus streams, selling out shows, and receiving acclaim from Elevator and more, he widens the scope of the genre, fusing that boy band-esque sound to gritty trap.
Written in Missouri in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, Francis self-produced, self-engineered, and self-recorded the track, as well as directed, shot, and starred in the video, with assistance from his creative partner
Aaron James Simpson. Sonically, Francis brings together 80s synthesizers and Atlanta trap piano loops, pushing boundaries in new and creative ways. "In my opinion the song is super upbeat and fun but also a bit dark and twisted," Francis shares.
Throughout the song, "STAR" lyrically explores themes of boastfulness, followed by introspection, as well as more spiritual themes such as heaven, hell, and temptation. The track rounds out nicely by giving a big "f*** you" to those critical of Francis' work, and those who attempt to diminish his growth.
"I wanted to break out of the box and try new things sonically and lyrically." And a lifetime dedicated to music enabled him to do just that.