Exquisitely capturing the essence of this emotional anthem, the surreal and contrasting visuals mesmerise the viewer from beginning to end.

OLI is a London-based alt-pop singer-songwriter who moved from New Jersey to the English capital at the age of 2. With her musical family’s encouragement, OLI has always known she was going to pursue a career in music. Writing her first song at a mere 7 years old, in a house surrounded by music, OLI soaked up an eclectic range of musical influences, from Dion Warwick and Stereophonics to Pearl Jam and Pink Floyd.

Defying boundaries with her dreamy alt-pop soundscapes, OLI creates enlightening music and it is her non-conformist lyricism, in particular, which has earnt her critical acclaim and garnered support from streaming services. Similarly to her previous emotive releases, OLI’s latest single Cry is co-written and produced by the legendary producer Benny D, who has worked with the likes of Stormzy, Paloma Faith, Depeche Mode and Kylie.

OLI explains the meaning behind the single:

I specifically wanted ‘Cry’ to focus on that numb feeling, when you’re unable to even process your emotions and let them go. The constant back and forth of knowing something isn’t right inside but wanting to keep going and not seem weak. I’ve always felt crying in general is underappreciated. The second half of the song is describing how good you feel after. How things really can become clearer in your head if you allow yourself to let it out and stop judging yourself for it.

Created by Gabrielle Salonga and Heini Sussane, the music video for Cry is a captivating collage of vintage animated sketches, natural and planetary visuals, and fragmented scenes of OLI epitomising the emotions of the song.

Due for release in January 2022, OLI has a forthcoming collaboration with Dave Gahan of Depeche Mode. This ingenious musical phenomenon shows no signs of stopping yet!