Kansas City-based artist TYYE embraces reinvention with his latest single ‘whole thing’, which opens up a bold pop chapter for a songwriter who was previously known for the deep R&B roots embedded within his debut album, MAKING MOVES. What hasn’t changed between the two releases is his penchant for emotionally raw lyrics, polished vocal performance and far-reaching commercial appeal. With production from local legend Braxton Medellin and mastering by Jackson Maddox, it might surprise you to learn that ‘whole thing’ was carefully in a home studio. That being said, that intimate atmosphere and introspective tone does feel particularly cosy, like you’re being welcomed into TYYE’s private space.

Starting off as a melancholic reflection on unrequited love (we’ve all been there!), this track evolves into something sleeker and a little more shiny thanks to layered textures, addictive grooves and undeniably catchy pop hooks. Even through this metamorphosis, ‘whole thing’ never loses that sense of vulnerability due to TYYE’s smooth vocals full of longing, desire and aching for something more, despite all the red flags. Temptation seems to be everywhere in this song, from the lustrous synths to the pulsating beats to the soulful undertones – there’s really no escaping that bittersweet tension. It really is a stunning introduction to TYYE’s forthcoming EP, one that promises to be even more versatile, dynamic and deeply personal than we’ve ever heard before.

“I wrote the initial lyrics during a tough period, where I was mourning the end of a close relationship with someone who was never fully mine to begin with. I wanted to capture that feeling of having a deep love for someone, but it’s not fully reciprocated, and the desire to be more than “just a step on their path”.”

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