“PRETENDER” by Evenson: A Journey of Sound and Introspection
“PRETENDER” is the most recent release from Evenson with which he takes listeners on a captivating journey of self-discovery through a heartfelt and introspective song. This emotionally charged track showcases Evenson’s exceptional songwriting and evocative vocals, creating a deeply resonant experience for the audience.
LISTEN TO “PRETENDER” HERE
“PRETENDER” establishes a contemplative atmosphere with its delicate acoustic guitar and atmospheric sounds. The production allows Evenson’s vocals to shine, carrying an intimate and vulnerable quality that draws you into the lyrics.
The song explores the complexities of identity and the struggle to maintain authenticity. His words recreate a person dealing with the pressure to conform and present a false version of themselves, and, since the lyric is delivered with sincerity, it generates an emotional response from the listener.
At the same time, it encapsulates what Evenson describes as “what it felt like when my parents were my age during the ‘70s, but through a lens of the future. If you listen closely, you will hear the influences of Earth, Wind & Fire, Prince, and Magdalena Bay in the music. I wanted for there to be a contrast of the past and the future in the music, but with words that are timeless.”
He said he focuses “on the idea of being a pretender and that yearning I have to be loved,” he says, adding that “there’s a lot of work to do before I get there. If you have ever had your heart broken, then you know that you carry it with you as you move forward into your next relationship. It takes a long time to heal.”
“PRETENDER” is the latest in a series of singles that address the fragility of mental health. It’s part of Evenson’s overall mission to change the way that young men are viewed in the world. “These days, you don’t often see a black artist so open to speaking about emotions and mental health,” he says. “I want to make it acceptable for a black man to be fully present in his vulnerability and sensitivity.”
The track is complemented by a music video, directed by long-time collaborator Jacob Rodier who has lensed the clips for the previous singles “If I Ever Feel Better” and “LUNGS.”
Like most of Evenson’s videos, “PRETENDER” carries a cinematic influence; this time, it’s 2016’s Arrival. “We wanted to convey a feeling of a psychological thriller,” he says.
The artist is close to sharing more of his story via the documentary Jai Guru Deva, a title inspired by “Across the Universe” by the Beatles, as well as a poem he wrote wherein he explores the idea of “being the smallest person in the universe. It’s a means to preserve humility.”
