Hong Kong Boyfriend Catches Butterflies in "see u dance"

Photo: Aamir Khuller

Have you ever been afraid to tell someone you like them? In his new single, "see u dance," Hong Kong Boyfriend admits that he can't get himself to say it out loud. Listening to the song, you're immediately hooked on the smooth-like-butter production elements, Hong Kong Boyfriend's vocals, and how relatable the song's messaging is regarding the complexities of trying to communicate your feelings in a new, vulnerable relationship.

Hong Kong Boyfriend has a mix of influences and a story to tell. Born in Japan and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, he spent most of his youth playing violin. Then, upon entering high school, Hong Kong Boyfriend discovered his love of contemporary music through listening to artists like Bon Iver, Frank Ocean, and Solange. Feeling isolated by how small his hometown was, Hong Kong Boyfriend turned to the Internet to try and find a similar community of artists. Quickly, he realized that "there were practically no musicians who looked like me," and "because of that, there were a lot of stories that were left untold."

Hong Kong Boyfriend wants his work to "expand the possibilities of being an Asian American." Relocating to LA and making music that lies somewhere between R&B, folk, and alternative, he's living out his dream. Lyrical Lemonade has had glowing things to say about his artistry, like "We are currently witnessing the beginning of something special forming and I'm so excited to watch it all take shape." I couldn't agree more.

"see u dance" is bright but still sultry. It feels really good to listen to. Hong Kong Boyfriend's musical career is only at its beginning.

Listen to "see u dance" below: