Burgeoning pop singer-songwriter Calvyn Cass is back with a cinematic new single “Hollywood Calls,” his second release of 2023. The track is driven by dreamy production, romantic lyricism, and a certain star quality that Cass has become known for, with Wonderland Magazine recently lauding the artist as one to watch.
Inspired by artists like Mariah Carey and Aerosmith, Cass’ lyricism pays homage to his love of 90s pop music, while his production style adeptly blends 2000s nostalgia with the sounds of today. “I love pop music that sparks a flame inside you,” Cass explains. “I want the music I create to move people in a way that has them feel like that song was written just for them.”
Cass first burst onto the scene back in 2020 with his debut single “ME, Myself, and I” and has continued to build a strong following in the time since. In just three years, his songs have been streamed over 1 million times on Spotify, and he’s racked up a whopping 500,000 views on YouTube. Now, he’s channeling that momentum into an ambitious two-part album that boasts production from the likes of multi-platinum producers Adam H. (Ray J, Ne-Yo, Elise Estrada, Def Leppard, and Loverboy) and Dave Genn (54/40 and Matthew Good Band).
“Hollywood Calls” is the introduction to the first chapter of that album, titled “Every Kind Chapter One: Reigning Stars.” The song was inspired by Cass’ deep love of film and his fascination with the way love is portrayed on the silver screen.
“The inspiration for ‘Hollywood Calls’ comes from a deep-seated desire to explore the intricate tapestry of love experienced throughout one’s lifetime,” he says of the track. “Movies have an extraordinary way of portraying love. They often paint a picture of a love that’s all-consuming, passionate, and seemingly endless in its honeymoon phase. The silver screen showcases an idealized version of love, where every moment is exciting, life-changing, and passionate. However, the real experience of love is a far more intricate and diverse journey, encompassing a multitude of experiences throughout someone’s lifetime. It’s not just about those beautiful, cinematic moments; it’s also about the complex and often challenging stories that weave into the tapestry of our lives.”
The single’s release is accompanied by a dreamy new music video, which was shot during a live performance. The stunning visuals pay homage to Lana Del Rey’s ever-endearing sense of hazy California romanticism, adeptly blending nostalgia with strong sensuality.
“Hollywood Calls” was penned by Cass and award-winning Australian producer and songwriter Jess Edo, while production took place at Vancouver’s renown EastBLVD Studios. It’s sophisticated, catchy — and a sure sign that we’ll be hearing a lot more from Calvyn Cass soon.
