Joe Keery, also known as Djo, is back with a fresh perspective on the challenges of finding one's identity in the digital age. While he's famous for playing the cool character Steve Harrington in "Stranger Things," Keery is making a name for himself in the music scene, proving he's more than just an actor. His latest song, "Basic Being Basic," is a catchy, upbeat track that humorously tackles our fears of not fitting in while ironically becoming one of the best songs you'll hear this year.
The song begins with a fun, retro-style sound that feels like something straight out of a classic video game. It captures you with its lively beats and clever lyrics, poking fun at the idea of trying so hard to stand out that you end up being just like everyone else. As Keery sings, "I think you're scared of being basic," he adds a clever twist: "That's ironic because it's reading like you're even more basic." The song serves as both a dance anthem and a commentary on our culture, truly reflecting Djo's unique style.
The music video enhances the song's quirky energy. It starts by playing in reverse, showing people doing everyday activities backward, like eating food or walking in reverse, before returning to normal. This visual play mirrors the song's message: no matter how much we try to shape our identities, the truth always comes out.
"Basic Being Basic" is just a preview of Djo's upcoming third album, "The Crux," which will be released on April 4. This time, Keery is shifting from his usual electronic sounds to a more decadent style featuring more guitars, influenced by the warm vibes of 1960s and 1970s pop music. With upcoming performances in Australia and a tour planned for North America and Europe, Djo continues to show that being "basic" is never part of his style.