After announcing the release of his new solo studio record The Ascension, Sufjan Stevens is following up on the release of its lead single "America" with a new song titled "Video Game."
The track was released today alongside a kitschy '80s-inspired video, choreographed by its star dancer Jalaiah Harmon.
Stevens has shared the following statement about the track:
It's unfortunate that we live in a society where the value of people is quantified by likes, followers, listeners and views. So many people are seeking attention for the wrong reasons. I think we should all be doing our best work without looking for accolades or seeking reward.
The main takeaway of "Video Game'"for me is: your worth (invaluable) should never be based on other people's approval (ephemeral). Just be yourself. Keep it real. Keep it moving. Do all things with absolute purity, love and joy. And always do your best.
Jalaiah epitomizes all of this and I'm truly inspired by her. So I thought, 'what if we could get Jalaiah to star in a "dance video" about not wanting to star in a "dance video?"' I'm so honored she agreed. She clearly owns it, and her work here is beautiful, poignant and true.
"I don't wanna be your personal Jesus / I don't wanna live inside of that flame / In a way I want to be my own believer / I don't wanna play your video game," he sings on the track.
"Video Game" arrives following the release of lead single "America" and its B-side "My Rajneesh," which will not appear on the forthcoming 15-track release.
The Ascension arrives in full on September 25 via Asthmatic Kitty Records.
Watch the video for "Video Game" below.
The track was released today alongside a kitschy '80s-inspired video, choreographed by its star dancer Jalaiah Harmon.
Stevens has shared the following statement about the track:
It's unfortunate that we live in a society where the value of people is quantified by likes, followers, listeners and views. So many people are seeking attention for the wrong reasons. I think we should all be doing our best work without looking for accolades or seeking reward.
The main takeaway of "Video Game'"for me is: your worth (invaluable) should never be based on other people's approval (ephemeral). Just be yourself. Keep it real. Keep it moving. Do all things with absolute purity, love and joy. And always do your best.
Jalaiah epitomizes all of this and I'm truly inspired by her. So I thought, 'what if we could get Jalaiah to star in a "dance video" about not wanting to star in a "dance video?"' I'm so honored she agreed. She clearly owns it, and her work here is beautiful, poignant and true.
"I don't wanna be your personal Jesus / I don't wanna live inside of that flame / In a way I want to be my own believer / I don't wanna play your video game," he sings on the track.
"Video Game" arrives following the release of lead single "America" and its B-side "My Rajneesh," which will not appear on the forthcoming 15-track release.
The Ascension arrives in full on September 25 via Asthmatic Kitty Records.
Watch the video for "Video Game" below.
