Debut singles are the musical equivalent of an introduction. The Greats – ‘Baby One More Time’ ‘Royals’, ‘Crazy in Love’ – can showcase the full potential of an artist while foreshadowing everything that is yet to come. These milestones often occur when the artist is completely unknown or launching a solo act, but what happens when a star already known in one medium makes the leap to pop? The question is one that Addison Rae has considered. Rae is a Gen-Z household name thanks to her immense popularity on TikTok. Rae is best known for her viral videos, but her latest project shows a new side to her talents. The release of her first single, ‘Obsessed’, brings Rae back to the world as a musician, as she sings and dances through a joyful song dedicated to self-love.
Rae’s foray into music may come as a surprise to some, but she’s been hard at work on her new tracks since last year. She is involved in every part of the process and devotes herself to songwriting and recording. “From the start I wanted to make sure I was writing my own music,” she says. “I remember writing lyrics when I was little and trying to figure out how to make it into a song, [now] I learn every detail and from great songwriters. “
‘Obsessed’ draws on Rae’s experiences as a social media star and uses puns to discuss the ins and outs of a relationship. “You might think of it as obsessing over yourself in vain, but that’s not what I’m trying to communicate,” explains Rae. “It’s more that I can love myself as much as you love me, and that’s important. There are days when I have a hard time, and it is definitely work in progress to accept who I am and give myself the love I deserve. But that message was so strong, and I wanted to get it across [in the lyrics]The self-affirming nature of the track is intentional. Inspired by artists like Taylor Swift, who fill their songs with recognizable themes, she wanted her music to take heart. “I wanted to know who I was as an artist before I put anything into the world,” says Rae.
A dancer from childhood, Rae wanted the choreography to be as expressive as the song’s message. Enter Sara Biv and Calvit Hodge, whose skillful choreography has upped the ante for artists like Camilla Cabello, Major Lazer and Nicki Minaj. “Dancers can feel something through the music while they dance,” says Rae. “I am lucky enough to work with Sara and Calvit and find out what would look best and really make the video stand out. I think it’s about finding that connection and understanding what works best with the music. “
The same philosophy applies to the fashion selection of the video, chosen by stylist Kyle Luu. It’s got everything from LaQuan Smith sheer catsuits worn with Mugler underlay to a magenta faux fur Gucci bolero worn with a crystal studded bra top. Sexy but playful, the four looks each have their own fashion message. “No one has seen this side of me before,” Rae says of the dramatic changes, including a fiery new hair color and bold makeup. “What’s exciting is that this has all been a part of me for so long, but not something I didn’t want to show yet.”
90s fans can experience a moment of nostalgia when they take in some outfits. A white corset by Dion Lee, worn with wide-leg Dickies, broadcasts Britney Spears approximately ‘Sometimes’, while the tight catsuit is reminiscent of the Spice Girls in’ Say You Be There. The retro feel pays homage to some of the artists Rae listened to and her mom’s personal playlist. “When I was young, she always listened to music from the 90s and 2000s, so I was incredibly influenced by that,” says Rae. Beyoncé, J.Lo, Britney Spears, Katy Perry, there are so many artists and songwriters that inspire me. There is such an emotional connection people have with their songs; they change people. ”
Rae hopes her contributions to music can have a similar evocative effect, especially when she can perform live. “Getting on stage is such an important part of being an artist,” she says. “It’s going to be exciting to share with the world something I’ve loved all my life and hopefully surprise people who didn’t realize this was part of who I am.”