Brooklyn-based electro-pop artist Ian Abel kicks off the new year with an anthem for anyone ready to leave their baggage—and their ex—in the past. His latest single, “Not Our Song,” is a playful and punchy track that blends cheeky lyricism with Abel’s signature sultry vocals and dreamy synth arrangements.
At just under three minutes, this chaotic-yet-catchy bop encapsulates the bittersweet end of a tired relationship. “I wanted to write about how a tired relationship can be like getting a song stuck in your head,” Ian explains. “Sometimes the best way to get it out is to play that song one last time.” The result? A tongue-in-cheek breakup anthem that no ex-couple will dare claim as “their song.”
The production—helmed by multi-instrumentalist Carey Clayton—is a delicious swirl of 90s-inspired synths, a high-energy drum-and-bass groove, and Abel’s smooth, breathy vocal delivery. It’s as if Bruce Hornsby had a chance meeting with Robyn on the dance floor, creating a nostalgic yet fresh sound that will leave listeners wanting more.
But the fun doesn’t stop with the single. Ian is dropping a quirky music video alongside a clean radio edit, ensuring “Not Our Song” gets maximum replay value. And if you’re lucky enough to be in NYC, you can catch him performing it live at his release show at C’mon Everybody on January 17th.
About Ian Abel
Ian Abel (pronounced “able”) is anything but ordinary. A self-proclaimed queer comic book nerd, his sound fuses the silky vocals of Sam Smith with the experimental edge of James Blake and the vibrant pop sensibilities of Robyn or Jessie Ware. With a musical career spanning over a decade, Ian has shared the stage with legends like Nile Rodgers and performed in iconic venues such as Carnegie Hall.
His debut EP, Icarus (2016), introduced his unique take on sensual, psychedelic electro-pop, and he has since become a staple in the New York alternative pop scene. From intimate performances at Rockwood Music Hall to international stages, Ian’s artistry transcends boundaries.
With accolades from outlets like Wolf In a Suit and Indietronica and features on Spotify’s Fresh Finds, Ian continues to cement his place in the indie music world. His previous releases, including “Right Hand Man” and “Drowning,” have set the stage for his upcoming EP, Karma’s a Bitch, expected to turn even more heads in 2024.
Why You Should Tune In
If you’re searching for an artist who embodies vulnerability, humor, and unrelenting creativity, Ian Abel is your guy. Don’t miss “Not Our Song”—a breakup anthem for the ages—and be sure to explore Ian’s vibrant discography.
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