Stewart Taylor Flashes Back to the Future in Electrifying New Single and Music Video, "Even"
Pop artist Stewart Taylor is set to release the music video for his new single "Even," an explosive dance-pop anthem inspired by a tumultuous relationship. Driven by honest lyrics and compelling visuals, "Even" explores the rollercoaster of love and conflict, capturing the highs and lows of a relationship headed for the rocks. With a distinct European dance-pop vibe courtesy of Romanian hitmaker MADS, and a futuristic visual, the music video will premiere on Vevo on Tuesday, November 26.
Taylor describes "Even" as a "pre-breakup song" that dives into the complexities of relationships. "The language of the heart is tricky," he explains. "You can be very much in love with someone and end up on opposing teams." Through the song, Taylor navigates these contradictions, highlighting the frustration and longing that comes from constantly trying to "get even" with a partner. The song's message about love and accountability resonates as Taylor ultimately advocates breaking the cycle of pain through personal responsibility rather than revenge.
Accompanying the release of "Even" is a music video that's a creative triumph in its own right. Directed by his longtime friend and collaborator, Benjamin Farren, the video combines special effects, animation, and vibrant styling to depict a relationship as a literal video game. Taylor and his on-screen partner battle through various levels of emotional and mental challenges, their every argument and manipulation taking them deeper into a virtual reality they can't escape. The visual storytelling aligns with the song's intensity, with scenes that bring his lyrics to life, such as "it's like you're on a mission, stacking ammunition, instead of just forgiving."
The music video concept was inspired by retro video games and an eighties style jacket Stewart saw in New York fashion week emblazoned with the words "Game Over" on the back. Taylor envisioned himself and his boyfriend as players, each fight taking them through new game levels. "In real life, we were very much 'Game Over' by the time I finished this song," Taylor reflects. "I left that relationship and took back my power, so I won!"
The video's high-energy choreography is the work of Julie Vegliante, who pushed Taylor to reach new heights as a dancer. Taking on styling duties himself, Taylor worked alongside German fashion designer Joseph Auren to create looks that reflect his indie artist ethos and his personal journey. "Styling is very fun for me," Taylor says, "and I love juggling different aspects of the creative process."
With cinematic fight scenes in his neon Corvette and with his lover donning a golden panther head, the music video embodies the emotional volatility of his former relationship. "My ex was always ready to pounce about anything and everything," he says, "and turning that story into a video game character was a cathartic moment."
"Even" represents a new milestone in Taylor's evolving artistry, building upon his previous releases with a stronger voice and vision. "In my opinion, 'Even' is one of my best songs because of how honest it is, and it's also one of my favorite music videos I've ever made." To amplify the song's reach, Taylor has partnered with Sapphire Records for a Tennebreck remix, adding an extra layer of dance appeal for club audiences. As he looks ahead to the release of his debut album in 2025, Taylor's fans can expect a collection of songs that "pack a punch" and showcase his unique sound and storytelling abilities.
Despite the intense emotions behind "Even," Taylor has reached a place of peace with the relationship that inspired it. "Over the years, my ex and I have healed a lot and have managed to stay friends," he shares. "He's heard 'Even' and has been very supportive. Thankfully for both of us, the fighting is over, and our stories only come alive again in my melodies."
Stewart Taylor is an LA-based singer, songwriter, dancer, and MMG actor/model. He grew up in a small town outside of New York City, where he began writing songs and performing in local talent shows and Lower East Side clubs. Since graduating from Berklee College of Music in Boston, he's collaborated with Grammy-nominated songwriters and producers including Charlie Puth and Kara DioGuardi and has penned songs for Romanian pop star Antonia, Kpop star Josh Cullen, American Idol's David Hernandez, and RuPaul's Drag Race's JuJu Bee, Mo Heart, and Manila Luzon.
He has also released several singles including his funk and R&B inspired debut single "Mess Your Hair Up" and "Favorite Ex". His last music video, "Nightmares", is currently playing on MTV's Spankin' New.
Stewart Taylor is an active voice in the LGBTQ+ community and his coming out story was featured in the New York Times bestselling book, It Gets Better: Coming Out, Overcoming Bullying, and Creating a Life Worth Living.
Stewart Taylor's "Even" is being distributed by Sapphire Records and is available on Apple Music, Spotify, and all digital platforms. Its video is available on Vevo and YouTube. Follow on IG and TikTok @imstewarttaylor and stewarttaylorofficial.com