50mething, the project of Paul Jenner, makes music with a real sense of purpose, moving comfortably between deeply heartbreaking themes and outright absurdity while still using that same platform to touch on bigger, real-world issues. His debut, aLl TheSe THinGs, released as a two-part CD in April 2024, drew directly on four difficult years of his life, tracing a path from darkness and loss toward flashes of hope. New single “Obsession” turns that same instinct toward something universal: our collective relationship with music itself.
Obsession
“Obsession” captures the specific, familiar feeling of always wanting music close by, that instinct to keep earbuds within reach whenever an emotional lift is needed. Rather than treating music as simple entertainment, the song frames it as a dependable companion, something to turn to for a mood shift or a fresh perspective whenever life calls for one. The track hits from the very first seconds with sharp keyboard work and a heavy, bouncy bass line that gives it an immediate head-bopping quality, with other instruments gradually layering in to add depth as it goes. Guitar fills out the arrangement further without ever competing with that central rhythm.
Musically, the song leans retro, pulling clear inspiration from 80s pop, and that influence shows up clearly in the chorus, where bright melodic touches and tightly stacked vocal harmonies make the hook land with real, replayable satisfaction. The vocal performance stays easy and enjoyable throughout, carrying an intersectional tone that adds real depth without ever sacrificing the song’s catchiness. Just when the pattern starts to feel predictable, a punchy horn section drops in unexpectedly, giving the track a vibrant, uplifting boost heading into its clean, confident finish.
Final Thoughts
“Obsession” is a warm, retro-leaning pop song that finds real meaning in something as simple as loving music, and it’s an easy, replayable listen from an artist clearly writing from a genuine place. It’s available now on Spotify. Follow 50mething on Instagram and Facebook.
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