We Speak Music

Kristian King’s Prince Charming: A Soulful Journey of Love, Identity, and Self-Worth

Published

9 months ago

March 19, 2025

In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary R&B and soul, authenticity is a currency that few artists truly master. Kristian King, a rising star from Toronto, has built his artistry on raw emotion and unapologetic self-expression. His latest single, Prince Charming, is not just a song—it’s a heartfelt declaration of self-worth, longing, and the journey to finding love both within and outside oneself.

A Personal and Universal Story

At its core, Prince Charming is an anthem of self-discovery, wrapped in smooth melodies and poignant lyricism. King, a young queer Black artist navigating his 20s, brings a deeply personal perspective to the track, using his music to explore themes of love, identity, and acceptance. “This track serves as a powerful reminder of my self-worth,” King shares. “It’s about understanding that before anyone can be a King, they must first embrace their identity as a Prince.”

This sentiment resonates throughout the song’s lyrics, which paint a picture of searching for something real in a world of distractions and superficial connections. Lines like “I’m in a room with people I don’t like, I’m looking for you in all of the lights” capture the feeling of isolation in a crowd, while the chorus emphasizes the deep desire for an authentic connection.

The Sound of Longing and Liberation

Sonically, Prince Charming is a masterclass in emotional storytelling. King’s smooth, expressive vocals glide over an ethereal R&B-infused production, creating a soundscape that feels both melancholic and hopeful. The track’s gentle instrumentation allows his voice and lyrics to take center stage, reinforcing the intimacy of the narrative. There’s an unmistakable push-and-pull between vulnerability and empowerment, as King shifts from longing for love to recognizing his own value.

The Symbolism of Royalty

One of the most compelling aspects of Prince Charming is its metaphor of royalty. The title itself challenges traditional fairytale narratives—rather than waiting for a rescuer, King redefines the idea of what it means to be ‘Prince Charming.’ The song suggests that before someone can truly step into their power (a King), they must first navigate the complexities of self-love and self-acceptance (a Prince). It’s a message that speaks to anyone on a journey of personal growth, making the track universally relatable.

A Bold Step Forward

Kristian King has consistently used his music as a platform for visibility and empowerment, and Prince Charming is no exception. As he continues to carve out space in the music industry, his work stands as a testament to the importance of authenticity in art. The single also sets the stage for his upcoming project, Delicate, which will further explore the trials and triumphs of young adulthood.

With Prince Charming, Kristian King offers more than just a song—he delivers an experience that is both deeply personal and widely resonant. It’s a reminder that self-worth is the foundation for all love, and that sometimes, the real magic isn’t in finding a ‘Prince Charming,’ but in becoming one for yourself.

Stream Prince Charming now on Spotify and all major platforms and follow @_kristianking_ on Instagram to stay tuned for more as he continues his musical journey.

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Flesh and steel collide on new Dead Chic track “The Bells and The Fists”.

Published

40 minutes ago

December 12, 2025

Don Reed

With images captured during one of their recent live performances, director Pablo Delpedro sought to highlight the intensity that is so characteristic of Dead Chic. The release of the band’s new single “The Bells and The Fists” was the perfect opportunity to illustrate this: a strange, shadowy track where flesh and steel collide, the soundtrack to a pagan ceremony unfolding somewhere deep in the bowels of the earth.

The video immerses us in the world of the four band members. Through their looks, their movements, their chaos and fury, we find ourselves at the heart of the storm, in the thick, sweaty atmosphere that turns each of their concerts into a dark and intense ritual.

Dead Chic originally formed from the partnership between Andy Balcon and Damien Félix. They met a few years ago while touring with their respective bands (Heymooshaker and Catfish), frequently crossing paths on the road and catching up backstage to discuss music, idols, and the possibility of collaborating. After a few years without crossing paths, they reconnected in the fall of 2020. Before discussing musical influences, Andy and Damien shared visual references, illustrations, and landscapes that would form the foundation and direction of their work. The idea of working together then took a serious turn, and after some exchanges, “Too Far Gone,” their first track, was released in 2022.

They were then joined by Rémi Ferbus on drums (known for his work with Kimberose, Mélissa Laveaux, among others), who had previously collaborated with Andy; and Mathis Akenginon keyboards, a long-time collaborator of Damien in Catfish. Over the years, through tours and travels, the musicians have honed their skills, enriched their cultural knowledge, and defined their individual styles. The combination of the four immediately sparked.

Dead Chic’s debut album ‘Serenades and Damnation’ is out now via Upton Park. “The Bells and The Fists” is something new that is a taster of where Dead Chic are headed for 2026.