Patrick Grossi, widely known as ACTIVE CHILD, the critically acclaimed singer-songwriter, instrumentalist, and producer, introduces his newest single, “I Know What to Say Now.” Co-produced by Alex Goose (Kali Uchis, Childish Gambino, Vince Staples), the track continues ACTIVE CHILD’s creative reawakening, revealing yet another layer of his intimate inner world. Introduced by the tender murmur of his young son, the song highlights Grossi’s signature ethereal and mesmerizing vocals, capturing a poignant moment where familial love rises to soothe both mind and spirit – LISTEN HERE.
“’I Know What to Say Now’ started with a voice note of my youngest,” says ACTIVE CHILD. “His words shook me up and inspired me the same night to write, fueled by an intense feeling of reassurance and safety during a period of personal transformation. I had a sparse idea already started of a 2-chord loop with drums, but once the recording of him was put in the beginning, it helped me find my words. Later, the arrangement was fleshed out in a session at my Pasadena studio with Mike Haldeman (Moses Sumney, Dijon, Jamire Williams), who added oboe and guitar. The final touches of a Rhodes piano melody by Daniel Abraham Jr., a snaking bass line in the chorus by Mike Montgomery, and soulful backing vocals from Marley Bleu and Moorea Masa brought it all together. “
Accompanying the track is a new visualizer that follows ACTIVE CHILD through downtown Los Angeles, moving among bankers, day traders, and the corporate world’s everyday “adults.” Though he initially appears to blend in with the crowd, there is an underlying tension. Grossi feels momentarily energized by the city’s hustle, yet aware that he doesn’t truly belong. The suit he wears, borrowed from his father, symbolizes the deepening theme of family anchoring this new musical chapter. Meanwhile, his signature look, from the orange hat to the white socks, and unkempt beard, remains unmistakably present, highlighting the dual identities he continues to navigate as both an artist and individual – WATCH THE VISUALIZER HERE.
“I Know What to Say Now” follows “Coming Up,” his first release after a 5-year hiatus. The track was featured on KCRW’s: Morning Becomes Eclectic and earned praise from Brooklyn Vegan, Melodic Magazine and RIFF Magazine, which wrote:“The tranquil melody in the beginning really lets you take in the introspective nature of Grossi’s lyricism, and it slowly grows into some intricate drum fills that establish the song’s emotional profundity.” Stay tuned for more ACTIVE CHILD soon.
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