Benjamin Booker Unveils New Single 'Same Kind of Lonely,' A Bold Artistic Evolution

Benjamin Booker returns to the music scene with a striking new single, "Same Kind of Lonely," signaling a bold evolution in his artistic journey. Set to be part of his upcoming album, *Lower*, which will be his first release in seven years, this track encapsulates a dichotomy of beauty and horror that resonates deeply with contemporary listeners. "Same Kind of Lonely" showcases Booker's signature sound, characterized by soothing vocal melodies intertwined with gritty instrumentation. The track opens with a harmonious blend of serene tones, but this tranquility is soon shattered by an audacious moment—a jarring burst of gunfire and anguished screams, sampled from footage of a school shooting. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Booker explained that this choice was a reflection of the unpredictable violence that can invade lives at any moment, evoking an emotional intensity that is hard to ignore. The stark contrast is further emphasized as the unsettling chaos is followed by the innocent laughter of his daughter, a reminder of the beauty that remains even amidst darkness. The inspiration for "Same Kind of Lonely" draws from deep philosophical contemplation. Booker reflects on the duality of existence, stating, "how things that start off so beautiful are often twisted into something unsettling or sinister." This exploration of the disconnect between nature and the manipulated state of the world serves as a poignant commentary on modern life, where beauty often intertwines with pain and loneliness. Accompanying the single is a music video co-directed by Booker and Gerry Cisneros, which visually amplifies the song's themes. Through breathtaking shots of nature contrasted with stark, unsettling imagery—such as a body being dragged through a picturesque landscape—the video challenges viewers to confront the manipulation of both self and environment. Inspired by Haitian Vodou ceremonies, the works of Paul Gauguin, and the films of Andrei Tarkovsky, the visuals serve to deepen the narrative woven throughout the music. "Same Kind of Lonely" follows the album’s lead single, "Lwa in the Trailer Park," which was released in October. With *Lower* set to drop on January 24, it marks a significant moment for Booker, as this will be his third studio album, following the critically acclaimed *Witness*. Collaborating with hip-hop producer Kenny Segal, known for his innovative work with artists like Billy Woods and Armand Hammer, Booker seeks to push the boundaries of his sound in this new chapter. As anticipation builds for the album's release, Booker is set to embark on a North American tour in February, promising fans an electrifying live experience. Segal will not only join him as an opener but will also play an integral role in Booker's live band, further promising a rich and dynamic performance. With "Same Kind of Lonely," Benjamin Booker not only reaffirms his artistic prowess but also invites listeners to reflect on the complexities of existence—a blend of beauty, horror, and the profound loneliness that can accompany modern life. As he prepares to unveil *Lower*, fans eagerly await to see how this artistic vision unfolds in the coming year.