Taylor Tote is an award-winning singer-songwriter from New Jersey. Not too long ago, she released a lovely four-track EP, entitled, “21 Min Drive.” The project opens with the heartfelt nu-disco-pop tune, entitled, “Selfish.”
Taylor Tote – “Selfish” single
“‘Selfish’ is about dealing with a friend who is consistently choosing themselves over others, and the frustrating emotions that can arise. This song sort of comes off like it’s about a romantic relationship, but personally it’s 100% about a friendship going south. But it’s vague enough for the listener to leave it up to their own interpretation. Anyone could have this issue in any situation.” – Taylor Tote explained
‘Selfish’ tells a heartfelt tale about a caring young woman who is losing patience while trying to communicate with her close friend. Apparently, she’s concerned about her friend, who she labels a vain and selfish individual who doesn’t care about anyone. Every week, this friend ditches her to hang out with other people including a new obsession—a desirable woman. Later, she optimistically waits for a “plead for help” text from her friend, but that never happens.
Taylor Tote continues the EP’s vibey mood on the emotional second track, entitled, “Lowkey Stressed.”
“Lowkey Stressed” single
“I have a really big issue rationalizing my emotions when it comes to dating. My brain completely stops working and I’m not sure what to do with my feelings. I get attached easily but I also get over things really easily. And both of those things scare me. I overthink everything and sometimes create issues that aren’t even there. It’s a big flaw. So I tend to hold back how I feel in fear of putting pressure on the other person or scaring them away. I try to come off cool and I do so much to the point where that person doesn’t think I’m interested and kind of gives up. So I’m lowkey stressed but for real it’s pretty high-key.” – Taylor Tote explained
‘Lowkey Stressed’ tells an intriguing tale about a young woman who is dealing with a lot of stress and anxiety which stem from a problematic relationship that she shares with her significant other. Apparently, she’s stressed out over every little thing that her companion does. Oftentimes, she gets obsessive and a tad bit over-aggressive at times because she hasn’t figured out how to control her emotions. Later, she admits that she wants to get inside her partner’s head to find out how her partner truly feels about her.
The next track, “Atypical,” entices listeners with an alluring contemporary-pop vibration.
“Atypical” single
“I always compare myself to other people, especially other women. I don’t know why, I think we all do it. Compare ourselves to the people we see especially on social media. But I know I have a lot to offer too. I may not be the typical person someone likes. I’m silly, a little obnoxious. I talk A LOT, and I’m all over the place. I’m emotional, but fun to be around. Also, I laugh at everything. I think I have a good sense of determination and passion, and I’m loyal and honest, sometimes to a fault. It’s funny because when the concept of this song came up, it was like a straight-up therapy session. Russell asked me how I felt about certain things, people, situations, and myself. And he took notes on all of it to work it into the song.” – Taylor Tote explained
‘Atypical’ is about finding your confidence, even if you don’t fit into the stereotypical molds of society.
“‘Atypical’ is a lot of fun, written over this triplet-focused guitar structure that I really liked. Taylor and I were talking about the topic for a while. And I really wanted a song that could be a confidence lift, while embracing how unique and independent Taylor is.” – Russell Hayden explained
The EP closer, “Flawless,” finds Taylor Tote reminding listeners that she isn’t perfect.
“Flawless”
“I feel like I’ve been suffering from imposter syndrome, especially during the pandemic. I didn’t even hear of that term until recently. But looking back, and even reading some of the things I’ve said, I was like, ‘Wow! Okay. Imposter Syndrome.’ I guess I’m worried that I’m not good enough for a lot of things and people will figure that out one day. Why do I have certain things or achieve certain accomplishments? Why should I try to keep moving forward in certain situations when there are people out there who are better or more qualified than me? I have a ton of motivation and drive but I also have self-doubt and anxiety.” – Taylor Tote explained
‘Flawless’ is about recognizing your internal faults while maintaining the ability to stay independent. The likable tune features a 25-piece-string-orchestra, recorded in London, England.
Taylor Tote
“I was talking to Russell about this and felt like it would’ve been a weird concept to write about. And I wasn’t sure how it would turn out but this is actually my hands-down favorite song on the EP. It’s a completely different style of singing, structure, writing, and everything. But also something that’s still very me because it’s something I’ve always wanted to do and have for myself for a long time. I’m happy Russell was able to tap into that side of me.” – Taylor Tote explained
Taylor Tote has made quite a splash in the New Jersey music scene in a few short years. The 25-year-old Jersey Shore native is mesmerizing with her unique, upbeat, and soulful original songs. She grew up in Tinton Falls, New Jersey, with her fun-loving family. When Tote is not performing, recording, or writing, she’s at Marymount Manhattan College studying Media and Arts Management, Social Entrepreneurship, and Music Industry. Tote’s intense schedule is surrounded by music, and there is no doubt that music is her passion and what she was born to do.
“‘Flawless’ is one of our favorites. I wanted Taylor over a beat like this for a long time. Taylor sounds great over this more chill R&B trap genre and it’s something I definitely want to explore more with her in the future. It ends with a string section that sounds beautiful and I thought it was a perfect way to close out the EP.” – Russell Hayden explained
“21 Min Drive” EP
We recommend adding Taylor Tote’s “21 Min Drive” single to your favorite playlist. Also, let us know how you feel in the comment section below. Mel Blanc’s famous catchphrase, “That’s All Folks!” Thanks for reading another great article on Bong Mines Entertainment. And always remember that (P) Positive, (E) Energy, (A) Always, (C) Creates, (E) Elevation (P.E.A.C.E).
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