Tennessee-based artist Marcus Skeen returns with “Papers”, a hypnotic blend of electronic R&B and pop that effortlessly merges seduction with escapism. Infused with a dark, cinematic allure, the track explores themes of passion, secrecy, and distraction, weaving an intoxicating metaphor of an office romance that masks the chaos of the outside world.
“It’s about an affair meant to distract from the terrifying world news,” Skeen explains. “It represents giving into our desires to drown out reality, even in the most inappropriate settings.” This underlying tension is mirrored in the song’s production—glossy yet raw, sultry yet haunting. The deep, pulsating beat sets the tone as Skeen’s smooth, evocative vocals guide listeners through an emotionally charged narrative of indulgence and consequence.
The single comes after a meteoric rise for Skeen, whose 2024 album North Star and EP Infinity End have amassed over 2.7 million Spotify streams and garnered a devoted fanbase. With “Papers”, he continues to push artistic boundaries, proving his ability to craft immersive, thought-provoking soundscapes that leave a lasting impression.
Both lyrically and sonically, “Papers” cements Skeen as a rising force in alternative R&B—one who isn’t afraid to embrace the complexities of human desire and vulnerability.
