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Photo: Maria Isabel

Alexander 23's music is both empathetic and calming to the angst that often accompanies young adulthood. His first single, "Dirty AF1s," made Apple Music's "Bop of the Week," and also graced Spotify's "New Music Friday" playlist. After a wildly successful debut which lead him to sign at Interscope Records, Alexander 23 is back with another relatable pop track, somehow managing to summarize nagging existential uncertainties of mortality in just over two minutes.  

"When I Die" showcases Alexander 23's forthright lyricism and tight instrumentation, traits which makes his current opening slot for Alec Benjamin make a whole lot of sense. Alexander 23 covered heartbreak and misadventures in love with "Dirty AF1s," so it's only fitting that he tackles another hefty topic, death and legacy, next.    

"When I Die" puts the little things in perspective, making everyday trials and tribulations seem petty in contrast to the bigger picture. Alexander 23 sings of what he hopes to be remembered for upon his death, hitting unexpected high notes between plucky guitar hits. He commented on the making of the song,  

"I hope that people are sad when I die, but that I don't die for a long time, no. If I go soon, have a drink and sing along. I hope that people are sad and they cry, but that they don't cry for a long time, no. If I go soon, have a drink and sing along."

The song ends with a sung monologue of sorts, with thick layers of autotune and vocoder making for an offbeat, almost futuristic sound.

Check Alexander 23 out at his upcoming shows for his Outrunning Karma Tour below - specifically Lollapalooza, where he will return to his Chicago roots for one of his biggest performances to date.

4/27 Denver, CO Bluebird

4/30 Salt Lake City, UT Complex

5/02 Vancouver, BC St. James

5/03 Portland, OR Hawthorne Theater

5/04 Seattle, WA Neumos

5/08 San Diego, CA Voodoo Room @ HOB

5/09 Los Angeles, CA El Rey Theatre

5/10 Los Angeles, CA El Rey Theatre

8/01 Chicago, IL Lollapalooza