New York-based R&B artist Sebastian Mikael has released smooth engaging visuals for his exquisite R&B single / Exit.
The Swedish-Eritrean artist continues where his music forbearers began and delivers a sumptuously smooth and neo-soul single. Echoes of Maxwell, Prince and D’Angelo weave through his arrangements, melodies and laid-back vocal style.
The artist has been on a journey since his single “Beautiful Life” went viral in 2012. The surprise success propelled him into deals which in hindsight was too much too fast. “I was thrown into the fire a little too quick.” He needed creative autonomy.
At 30 years old, Mikael is in control. “Now, I don’t have fear. I don’t second–guess myself. I’ve made sure that this time around, the music is all the way me.”
His confidence flows with an emotionally chilled attitude and lyrics to Exit are adorned with sensual pleading. The video animation provides an added touch of companionship through loneliness, and a touching reflection of pandemic induced isolation.
Many nordic artists have found attention outside their homelands before being recognised at home, and I have got a feeling Sebastian Mikael is on the same path.
The US is already awakening to Sebastian Mikael. Let’s hope Scandinavia does too!