For Brooklyn-based musician Scion Rae, songwriting was the natural conclusion to a journey that began with a need to have his voice heard, initially leading him to write poetry. In fact, the version of himself he left behind when he fully leaned into his new creative outlet often arises as a theme in his lyrics, such as his latest single and first of a pair of releases through Dangerbird Records. “‘No Strings Attached’ outlines my abandonment of the notions and expectations of others,” he shares of the new recording. “I noticed I had the power to remove the strings attaching me to the person I once was regardless of who was on the other end pulling.”
At four minutes, the single takes on a unique three-act structure, opening with vibey synths before a heavy beat drops ultimately leading to the song’s surprisingly vulnerable finale. Largely speaking to the influences on that last chapter, Rae cites Tyler, the Creator and Tierra Whack as major influences on his music. “When I heard the first version of the beat for ‘No Strings Attached’ it connected with my inner child,” he says. “It put me in the mindset of 808s & Heartbreak, yet with Whack/Tyler’s childlike nature. I immediately thought of a carnival theme and being the puppet that was acted upon which took on several meanings as I began writing.”
The single is the first of two tracks Rae has announced will be released through Dangerbird, with “Indigo” following on July 26. In the meantime, check out a video for “No Strings Attached” below.
