Reading Time: 2 min read

4 out of 5 stars

Simon XO, My Love [Photo Credit: Michael Armstrong]Unhappy with the political climate in the U.S. under President Trump, rising pop artist Simon XO expresses his anger on his electrifying single, “My Love.”  

“I think at this point, everyone is just exhausted with the president. There is so much news—most of it bad—that your senses overload. But the worst time to stop fighting is now…” Those wise words come from Simon XO, a talented 22-year-old electro-pop singer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist from San Diego, California.  No slouch when it comes to musicianship, he’s adept to the classical side of things as a trombonist, as well as the popular music world.  Simon XO [Photo Credit: Rudy Pesci]The marvelous single at hand, “My Love” (available beginning June 8, 2018) is where the politics of the aforementioned quote come into play. The rising artist continues, “With midterms around the corner, we have the opportunity to demonstrate our anger meaningfully. And ‘My Love’ is my attempt to explain my anger in the unifying way it’s intended.” 

Simon XO [Photo Credit: Rudy Pesci]It’s safe to say, Simon XO has a hit on his hands.  The first thing that stands out are his powerful vocals.  While he doesn’t necessarily need effects, distortion ‘fuels his fire’ at times to intensify his message.  Listening to him sing, his expressiveness makes the listener envisioning him with both fists raised to the sky. Beyond the vocals, the production is superb, led by aggressive rhythm electric guitar and a sick, drum groove.  Those pummeling tom, man – sigh – sheer excellence.  Also adding to this elite, meaningful pop joint is a catchy chorus that latches upon the first listen.  All truly is compelling and sound about “My Love,” from the messaging, production, and the vocals.

Final Thoughts

Simon XO [Photo Credit: Rudy Pesci]As he said himself, he’s not a fan of the Trump Presidency, something many actors, athletes, musicians, minorities, and a number of folks can relate to.  Simon XO marvelously conveys explaining his anger in the unifying way it’s intended.  Beyond the anger and the politics, he sets himself up for future success.  He’s gifted with plenty to offer as a musical artist.


Simon XO • My Love – Single • Michael Armstrong • Release: 6.8.18
Photo Credits: Michael Armstrong, Rudy Pesci
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the musical hype

the musical hype aka Brent Faulkner has earned Bachelor and Masters degrees in music (music Education, music theory/composition respectively). A multi-instrumentalist, he plays piano, trombone, and organ among numerous other instruments. He's a certified music educator, composer, and a freelance music journalist. Faulkner cites music and writing as two of the most important parts of his life. Notably, he's blessed with a great ear, possessing perfect pitch.

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