Alt/indie pop musician Sophie Powers joins forces with genre-bending artist and producer RJ Pasin on volatile new single “XO,” a track that’s just as defiant lyrically as it is in genre. Combining the high-energy catchiness of hyperpop with metalcore’s force and intensity, “XO” is a stunning showcase of both artists' strengths as musicians. Powers and Pasin have blended two genres on seemingly opposite ends of the musical spectrum into a beautifully cohesive, powerful song.
"Working with RJ Pasin unlocked this wild sonic tension I’ve been chasing for a while,” shares Powers, continuing, “It’s the sound of me stepping into womanhood, claiming my power, and still recklessly chasing chaos like it’s love…My voice wraps around RJ's guitar in a way that feels both raw and hypnotic, but it’s that mysterious, unhinged energy that gives ‘XO’ its heartbeat."
Sophie Powers first hit the scene back in 2021, with the release of her premiere single “Lonely Army.” Her debut EP, Red In Revenge, came out the following year, and her sophomore one, Glitch: Lvl 1, was released in summer 2024. And at only 20 years old, she’s already solidified her spot as a noteworthy rising star in both the pop and alternative spaces. Meanwhile, RJ Pasin’s journey began back in 2018 with the release of his first single, “Balance.” He’s since released three EPs and as many full-length albums, most recently Nature this past February, as well as produced for and worked with some of the industry's most prominent artists.
"XO" takes place from the perspective of a girl who knows exactly what she wants, and there isn't a distance she isn't willing to go to get it. With lyrics such as "XO, XO, kiss me 'fore I kill somebody," and "When I see you, there's no plan B / Boy, don't tempt me, 'cause I'm crazy," the track is the complete embodiment of raw, badass feminine power.
Much like Powers and Pasin themselves, "XO" refuses to be confined to a singular genre box, with grungy, animated beats and metallic guitar riffs infused into dazzling synths and airy, shifting vocals. The flawless execution of blending sonic aspects across various alternative and pop genres not only shows an incredible level of versatility for both artists but also perfectly complements the song's lyrics. There's no doubt that "XO" is going to be a massive hit, with both long-established listeners and the general masses alike.
Keep up with Sophie Powers on Instagram, Twitter [X], & TikTok, and RJ Pasin on Instagram & TikTok.
