New York, NY (Top40 Charts) The new single from
Detroit neo-soul band White Bee is a psychedelic shimmer through the lens of a kaleidoscope. "Beat State" injects a splash of color onto a dripping canvas. Infusing elements of soul, jazz, and even funk, the melody captures the sights and sounds of bands like Hiatus Kaiyote. Produced and recorded by Elise McCoy, (My Pal Val, Bogart), the new single is now streaming on Bandcamp and SoundCloud.
"Beat State" deviates from traditional and makes several notable stops along the way. The musical alter ego of Shannon Barnes, White Bee is an outlet for creativity and soul. Barnes explains, "The single was inspired by growth. When I wrote the song I was going through a lot of changes, and it seems like even more have happened since. The song is about the different types of relationships, friendships, and encounters that can drastically impact your life. That's why I wanted Ballet
Detroit featured in the video, because all of those kids are at an age where so much will change so quickly."
The melodies sparkle and soothe as Barnes weaves her crooning vocals between measures of explorative keyboard solos, staccato electric guitar, and a bass line that takes an extended walk in Funk Town, U.S.A. "Beat State" has shifts, dips, and turns throughout that encapsulate the coming-of-age message. These elements are accented in the music video, shot on historic Belle Isle in Detroit. "The first time I went to the Belle Isle Conservatory was for a wedding. The person who married the couple talked about the history and purpose of the conservatory and it seemed like the most appropriate place to film the music video. Michigan's weather clearly undergoes severe changes every year, but even under those circumstances, the conservatory maintains growth of beautiful tropical plants. To me, that resembles the changes I have experienced in my life and how I am still growing within the constant changes that surround me."
About White Bee:
White Bee is the musical moniker of Shannon Barnes. She has performed throughout Michigan, with notable stops in
Detroit like Dally in the Alley. The new single, "Beat State" was recorded, produced, and mixed by Elise McCoy (My Pal Val, Bogart).
Tour Dates
8/25 - Trumbullplex, Detroit, MI - 25th Anniversary Show
9/8 - Pop+Off World, Detroit, MI - Sound and Silence Second Saturday's
