Kekoa Usi Returns with ‘afar’: Embracing Vulnerability in Music
By. Alicia Zamora
As a young artist navigating the complex waters of high school, Kekoa Usi’s willingness to open up about his feelings in his new single ‘afar’ speaks volumes about his character and artistry. It’s no small feat for someone so young to put their raw emotions out into the world. Yet, Usi does so with remarkable authenticity, showing us that he is, indeed, still human — capable of feeling and expressing those darker, unhappy emotions that many of us grapple with, yet often keep hidden.
When you listen to ‘afar,’ you're immediately drawn into a soundscape that resonates with a profound sense of yearning. It feels as though Usi is painting a vivid picture of hope slowly slipping through one’s fingers, a poignant reflection of that life experience we all fear: the struggle of holding on to something that may no longer serve us. It’s a musical portrayal of those complicated moments when you know it's time to let go, even if your heart longs for connection. The gentle layering of instrumentation amplifies those feelings — each note echoing like a whisper of memories and missed opportunities.
In this new release, Usi marks a significant evolution in his musical journey compared to earlier tracks like ‘Who Are You?,’ ‘l-o-v-e,’ and ‘more than a crush.’ While those songs certainly showcase his budding talent, ‘afar’ takes a different approach, diving deeper into the emotional tapestry of relationships and their complexities. The song opens with an intensity that grips you as if pulling you into his inner world. You can feel the weight of his longing, the nostalgia, and the bittersweet acknowledgment that sometimes love means letting go.
Usi’s voice carries a hopeful fragility that tugs at the heartstrings, making it all the more relatable. It’s as if you are not just a listener but a participant in his journey, feeling every twist and turn alongside him. The lyrics encapsulate that universal struggle — the heart’s persistent desire to cling to what’s familiar, even when logic tells us that moving forward is the healthier choice. At the end of the song, when Usi finally reaches that moment of release, it’s almost visible — the mix of relief and sadness that comes from letting go is something anyone who has ever loved can understand.
What’s particularly striking about “afar” is the honesty with which Usi approaches the topic. As he navigates the trials of adolescence while balancing his music career, it’s evident that he is not afraid to confront the uncomfortable emotions that accompany growing up. This honesty is a hallmark of genuine artistry, and it resonates deeply with audiences who have faced similar struggles.
By the time the chorus arrives, there’s an overwhelming sense of resignation that permeates the soundscape. Usi’s voice becomes more ethereal, evoking feelings of acceptance as he ultimately makes the difficult decision to let go. It’s a powerful reminder that while holding on may feel comfortable, sometimes the bravest choice is to set someone free, even when it hurts.
As “afar” comes to a close, the final notes linger in the air, leaving a bittersweet aftertaste that challenges listeners to reflect on their own experiences with love and loss. Kekoa Usi’s artistic evolution is evident in this single; he is carving out a space for himself in the music industry as an artist unafraid to delve into the raw and real aspects of life. With “afar,” he not only showcases his musical talent but also solidifies his position as a relatable voice for his generation. This track is a beautiful testament to the trials of navigating relationships and emotions, and it sets a promising foundation for the artist's future.
