R&B Sensation ASTN Signs to Warner Records, Shares Emotional Single and Video "Gradually"
Photo Credit: Bryce Glenn
Today, the introspective, Los Angeles-based singer, songwriter, and producer ASTN announces his signing to Warner Records with his emotional single “Gradually,” as well as an accompanying visualizer.
If the name ASTN rings a bell, chances are you might have heard his R&B covers making their rounds while scrolling through TikTok. “Gradually” is ASTN’s Warner Records Debut, and his first original release since his R&B remix of Billie Eilish’s “Happier Than Ever.” The cover which he posted to TikTok and Instagram in November garnered so much attention — 4 million views overnight and over 59 million views on TikTok alone — that fans demanded a full-length release, which arrived the next week.
“ASTN is a star in the making. What instantly struck me is ASTN’s ability to move between both Pop & R&B infleunces so effortlessly. His inspirations are familiar, and his music timeless, yet he’s bringing to it a fresh style all his own. He’s so clear on who he wants to be, what he wants his music to sound likee, what he wants his visuals to look like, and what will make the the most authentic connection with his fans.”
“The song poses the question: Is it more agonizing to see someone you love vanish from your life all of the sudden, or slowly detach from you over time?” explains ASTN. “It's about knowing this person is on their way out, and yet you still try to make it work, salvaging anything from it that might be left. But truthfully, there's a beauty in letting go.”
The track is an affecting breakup anthem, warmed by smooth R&B production and ASTN’s gentle yet confident voice. The comforting environment allows him the space to, in juxtaposition, explore some uncomfortable feelings.
Photo Credit: Prada
ASTN may have appeared to be a sudden viral sensation, but it was the result of the groundwork he’d been laying for years on textured, emotional independent releases like 2017’s Tell Your Friends and June 2021’s IT’S NOT THAT SERIOUS. Now, with Warner in his corner, he’s ready to reach even more open-hearted listeners, something that songs as generously emotive as “Gradually” will surely help him do.