P&P Spotlight: TE.O

The resurgence of jazz and retro has marked this current decade, with a wide range of artists incorporating such influences and motifs into their work. Korean R&B singer TE.O flawlessly puts his own spin on this craze, in a mesmerizing masterpiece called “PAYPHONE.” He’s only been in the game for a few years, but his originality and adventurousness are helping him quickly rise to the top.

Image courtesy of TE.O, graphic created by Karly Ramnani

YOU'LL LOVE TE.O IF YOU LISTEN TO: The Weeknd, BTS, Tomorrow X Together, JUNNY, Drake

The music video for “PAYPHONE” dropped last month, and to say we can’t stop watching it is an understatement. The imagery of a jazz musician on stage intentionally follows from the song’s soundscape. TE.O prepared the location, concept, and outfit himself! A fitting follow-up to his previous single “BLUE,” TE.O continues to blend the genres of hip-hop, blues, and K-pop in a way that just works. With his producer Siu, the rising star continues to develop his one-of-a-kind voice and brand.

One thing we loved about TE.O’s creativity is the various mediums that shape his craft. “Regardless of genre, I get inspiration from music if I feel that it's something that I sympathize with. Also from other art fields, such as sculpture, performance art, painting, photography, acting,” the singer told Playlists & Polaroids. This holistic approach gives him a unique perspective. TE.O is living proof that creative juice can come from, quite literally, anywhere.

Hopefully by now, we’ve convinced you to keep your eye on TE.O’s name! The innovative storyteller will undoubtedly take over the music scene in no time. Here’s a playlist we’ve curated to help you get started!