John-Robert Threads Vulnerability Into New Single “Set It Off”
- Charles Luberisse
- 14 minutes ago
- 1 min read
Written By: Big C
Appalachian-born singer-songwriter John-Robert announces his forthcoming EP Cross Stitch. Rooted in the folk traditions of his Virginia hometown yet modern in its indie-pop sheen, John-Robert builds courage with the release of Set It Off. The track finds the rising artist channeling playful charm into the struggle of social anxiety, turning hesitation into a breezy anthem of self-liberation. The single’s official video captures a day-in-the-life across Southern California, arcades, photo booths, karaoke on the pier, a tender reminder of joy in small, imperfect moments. His reflections give the single its earnest heart, stating:
Post-breakup, I wanted to prove to myself that I was still fun. I went out by myself, dressed in something cute, but couldn’t build the courage to dance or talk to anyone. I wrote the tune as if I had overcome my social anxiety.
Having returned from Los Angeles to his hometown of Edinburg, VA, he frames the project as both healing and homecoming. Arriving November 14, "Cross Stitch" mirrors the quiltwork of his great-grandmother, with each song acting as its own piece of fabric sewn into a larger story. Its first single, Other Side,” served as a tribute to his late grandmother. This fall, John-Robert will tour with Felly (September 23–October 10) before joining Ax & The Hatchetmen for select dates in December. Catch John-Robert on tour this fall and follow him on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Twitter, and Bandcamp. Let us know your thoughts on the official video to “Set It Off,” below.