EthanUno, the Houston-born, San Diego-raised singer, songwriter, and producer, is back with a captivating new track, “Quemar”—a bilingual fusion of tropical Pop&B that balances heartbreak and euphoria. The single, released ahead of his much-anticipated EP Necesidad (dropping January 24 via Friends Keep Secrets/Interscope), captures the artist’s penchant for blending vibrant melodies with introspective lyricism.
From the opening strum of its acoustic guitar, “Quemar” radiates warmth. EthanUno’s honeyed voice glides effortlessly over the track, pleading for emotional space: “Si me quieres, me tienes que esperar / Porque nunca me dejas respirar” (“If you want me, you have to wait for me / Because you never let me breathe”). The song’s gentle start soon simmers, building with rubbery basslines, syncopated rhythms, and touches of lo-fi electronics—a dynamic production helmed by the legendary Happy Perez. Known for hits like Miguel’s “Sky Walker” and Benny Blanco’s “Eastside”, Perez’s influence amplifies the track’s polished yet intimate allure.
Reflecting on his collaboration with Perez, EthanUno described the session as electric: “He pulled up a loop, and the chorus melody hit me like lightning. From there, it was off to the races.”
This latest single solidifies EthanUno’s growing reputation as a genre-defying artist. His music, a kaleidoscope of Latin pop, hyperpop, and SoundCloud experimentation, has been steadily gaining traction. Tracks like “pecador” and “tattoo” showcase his versatility, oscillating between trop-house grooves and quirky, kawaii-inspired pop. Critics and fans alike have taken notice, with features in Entertainment Tonight and Ones to Watch bolstering his rise.
EthanUno’s earlier works—like “tu” and “pensando en ti”—have also proven their staying power. The latter even caught the attention of Frank Ocean and Rosalía, a testament to his ability to create music that resonates across audiences and cultures.
While “Quemar” exudes a breezy, almost playful energy, it also serves as a reminder of EthanUno’s deeper artistic vision. Rooted in his connection to his Latino heritage and an unrelenting drive for self-expression, his music walks the line between nostalgia and futurism. Each release feels like a step forward, marked by an eagerness to evolve and a refusal to be boxed in.
With Necesidad on the horizon, EthanUno is poised to make 2024 his biggest year yet. If “Quemar” is any indication, the EP will deliver more of the innovative, emotionally resonant sounds that have made him one of the most exciting artists to watch.
