Tama Gucci, the acclaimed singer, producer, and DJ, has released his highly anticipated debut album, Notes To Self, under the Sinderlyn label. The New York City-based artist, who was crowned “Coolest Person In The Room” by Paper Magazine in June, has been captivating listeners with the emotional depth of the album’s early singles.
Notes to Self represents the culmination of years of innovative pop songwriting and the creation of intricate club soundscapes. The album, which can be seen as a collection of reimagined musings and journal entries, tracks Tama Gucci’s evolution from a fun-loving cover artist and meticulous songwriter/producer to a self-assured, all-encompassing visionary. Originally from Miami, Tama Gucci is known for pushing boundaries, as evident in tracks like the nostalgic pop-punk ballad “Runaway Pup.” Accompanied by a tongue-in-cheek video that nods to Michael Haneke’s classic film Funny Games, the song showcases his playful yet sophisticated style. Other standout tracks include “Didn’t Have To,” which is introspective, honest, and vulnerable, and the recent single “Back Then,” a personal manifesto dedicated to his younger self. Throughout the album, Tama Gucci effortlessly weaves through various genres, showcasing his versatility.
Notes to Self is also a deeply romantic and brooding record, focusing on themes of self-growth, happiness, and the wisdom gleaned from past mistakes. Tama Gucci’s decision to infuse dance music with sobering moments of clarity reflects his deep connection to similar songs from his childhood.
Prior to this album, Tama Gucci released the Out of Order mixtape in 2017, followed by the Fantasy EP in 2019 and Almost Blue EP in 2021. These projects allowed him to steadily develop his sound and cultivate his artistic voice. With Notes to Self, he expands his sonic universe by collaborating with guest contributors for the first time. NYC songwriter/producer Cassius Cruz adds an ebullient rap verse to “No More ‘I Love You’s’,” while ambient pop artist Colle (also of Chanel Beads) contributes heartrendingly beautiful whispers to “You Lost Me.” Additionally, Australian multi-hyphenate Jack Slade produced two pop-forward tracks, further enhancing the album’s diverse soundscape.
The release of Notes to Self comes at a pivotal moment in Tama Gucci’s career, as he has become a key figure in New York City’s queer electronic underground scene. He has opened for artists like Erika de Casier and Christine and the Queens and made a guest appearance on Caroline Polachek’s Club Quarantine set. Beyond music, Tama Gucci is making waves in the fashion world, having scored runway shows for New York and Milan Fashion Weeks, including Mirror Palais, Prabal Gurung, and Moschino, alongside his partner and fellow DJ, Matthew Mazur. He’s also modeled for tastemakers like Telfar and launched his own brand of tongue-in-cheek handmade apparel, Tama’s Corner.
With Notes to Self, Tama Gucci solidifies his position as a multifaceted artist who continues to push creative boundaries, both in music and beyond.
