Hi Our Basement,

When I wrote “Guns & Gold,” I was going through some challenges in my life that were beyond my control, and I became obsessed with MMA. The self-discipline and drive the sport demanded inspired me, and the mentality required of a martial artist became something I strive for in my own craft. Also, with the rise of Ronda Rousey and female fighters, I felt empowered. I had never seen a woman be so celebrated in that arena – she literally changed the industry and created a space for women in the world of MMA. I wanted to write something that would be my own personal walk out theme, a mantra if you will. In the music industry, you hear a lot of no’s before you get a yes, and “Guns & Gold” is a reminder to myself to keep getting up and fighting for what I want.

We put together the visuals in five days. My friend and longtime collaborator, who does most of my visual work, Jon Thomas, contacted me and was like, “I have some amazing film gear rented over the weekend, wanna shoot a music video?” Of course, I was game. My stylist and friend Whitney Lykins and I started dreaming up the looks, and I got in touch with all of my girlfriends. My vision for the video was female strength in its many forms – physical prowess, unity, motherhood, and women uplifting one another.

“Guns & Gold” is the second single from my forthcoming Real Lies EP, set for release next March – a seven-song collection of soulful electro-pop tracks that document the heartbreak and disillusionment I had to overcome in order to get to where I am today. I think the process of growing as a person and artist is uncovering our truth – to realize and decode the lies we tell ourselves to protect us from pain. Acknowledging and facing our anger, fear, and loneliness allows us to move forward. I want to be as authentic as possible with my story, in the hope that it can help you, my listener, feel seen.

Sophia Danai