Enigmatic R&B superstar Brent Faiyaz has finally unveiled the official version of “Paper Soldier” featuring fellow DMV fast-rising recording artist Joony. The previously unreleased hidden gem has been a fan-favorite on the web, securing millions of views on various leaks on Soundcloud and YouTube. The stealthy release comes on the heels of Joony’s new 10-track EP, MEMENTO, out now in partnership with Red Bull Records, Blxst’s Evgle imprint, and his personal collective 211.
Although “Paper Soldier” was never officially released, it has become one of the highlights of Joony’s live show performances. Excitement for the unreleased smash reached an all-time high as he teased the song during his explosive support set on the European/UK leg of Lil Tjay’s ‘Beat The Odds’ tour. There has also been a recent uptick in creates on TikTok to the newly released single.
The record was a smooth transition between his new Y2K-influenced EP, which hosts features from Tony Shhnow, TTM Dawg, Lancey Foux, and Lil Candypaint. Like the critically acclaimed early 2000s film, MEMENTO directly represents fleeting thoughts that invade the brain of the talented 22-year-old rising superstar. The EP’s interludes successfully tie together the wide range of sounds that showcase Joony’s undeniable versatility.
When discussing the project, Joony exclaimed, “The project ‘MEMENTO’ is somewhat of a memento in and of itself. I made all of the music during a part of my life where I was traveling the country with the homies, making memories, and diving deeper into the next phase of my career. All the interludes are excerpts from real-life moments and conversations recorded throughout the creation of the project, hence ‘MEMENTO’.”
“Paper Soldier” marks Joony’s second official collaboration with the Grammy-nominated recording artist.
