When you hear alternative R&B, you probably think of The Weeknd, Bryson Tiller, Frank Ocean, SZA, who have become household names in the genre. Well, there’s a new kid on the block. He is Marlon O’Neil, famously known as NEW EX, from Winston-Salem and he is like a breath of fresh air.
Defining his musicality with subtle yet polished vocals and a striking melody line, the singer recently unveiled his latest single “From Rising Stars” His impressive blend, and his urge to show something flexible and soul-stirring, deserves undivided attention.
When the song opens, the beat gives this Stranger Things vibe. The beat incorporates elements of 80s synth and trap soul, much to the credit of North Carolina producer Travis Dark. Drawing from the greats in the alternative R&B scene, he exhibits maturity in his lyricism and vocal delivery. The fact NEW EX is able to sing so emotionally, sound so serious, and yet remain enjoyable, is quite remarkable. It is a show of his artistic strengths and versatility.
He sounds laid back at the beginning of the first verse before picking up the pace towards the end, as he sings about being addicted to the thrills of the city, all the while feeling lost. He sounds like a troubled man, as are most of us, going through everyday life, convincing ourselves that we are fine, failing to address the elephant in the room. It is this unhealthy tendency that causes a rift in our psyche, and in our relationships, affecting our lives as a whole. The song screams Greatness in the Making.
NEW EX is a seasoned multi-instrumentalist, vocalist and performer, having shown talent and love for music from a tender age. He has performed in shows and festivals all over USA with his shoegaze/dream-pop band Foxture and was a Hopscotch day party favorite. Along with his band, he has been featured in multiple media outlets including Substream Magazine for the release and rollout of their EP, EDEN.
NEW EX has all the potential of becoming the new face of Alternative R&B and Hip Hop.
Catch NEW EX on Instagram below
