NEW VIDEO: Momoko Rose 'softboi' Lyric Video

Momoko Rose releases anime inspired lyric video for latest single ‘softboi’ in collaboration with local artist Melissa Bustamante Montoya

After releasing her witty and wistful single ‘softboi’, queer Japanese-Australian artist Momoko Rose releases an accompanying visual inspired by early 2000s technology and anime. Drawing on otherworldly women in R&B and folk — Björk, Raveena, yeule and Japanese folk singer Ichiko Aoba — ‘softboi’ emerged during Melbourne’s lockdowns as she experimented with beatmaking in Ableton and eventually collaborated with producer Rino Darusman. The song tackles emotional unavailability and the struggles men have with vulnerability. Although the lyrics are playful and simple, ‘softboi’ exposes the covert ways in which toxic masculinity impacts relationships and society. It references the ‘softboi’ archetype without defining it, to shed light on how some men assert themselves through intellectual prowess rather than traditional physical strength, revealing that these self-imposed barriers often hinder genuine and intimate connections. ‘softboi’ serves as an anthem for the sensitive and socially awkward, resonating with those navigating the complexities of modern relationships. A feminine aesthetic charged with masculine energy and supported by community radio with love from SYN, PBS FM, 4ZZZ, and more, with a first play on triple j unearthed. 

Adding a new dimension to the emotion of ‘softboi’ and elevating the aesthetic experience, a lyric visual joins Momoko Rose’s iconic ‘softboi’, created by animator Melissa Bustamante Montoya. ‘As someone who has always been a hardcore anime nerd (even back when it was NOT cool), witnessing my song come to life through animation fills me with joy and the fulfilment of my childhood dreams. I am in awe of the women in my life who are brave enough to create and entrusting Melissa with my vision for ‘softboi’ was a decision I made with confidence.’ - Momoko Rose

‘The ‘softboi’ lyric video is inspired by vaporwave aesthetics, early 2000s technology and anime paired with expressive and quick editing that complements the changing moods of the song’ - Melissa Bustamante Montoya

Wielding her vulnerability at the forefront of her music as an instrument of healing, Momoko Rose’s sound is constantly evolving and breaking genre boundaries with new ethereal soundscapes that intertwine lush chords pierced by dynamic beats.

Come and enjoy the playful and animated interpretation of ‘softboi’’s lyrics and insightful commentary.

'softboi' is out now via Noisehive