Daniel Seavey makes his official solo debut with his new single “Can We Pretend That We’re Good?” – available now alongside a provocative music video directed by Evan Hara. Embarking on a new chapter of his career, the Why Don’t We co-founder and American Idol alum re-introduces himself as a s solo artist.
Self-penned and produced, “Can We Pretend That We’re Good?” represents the kind of music Daniel has always wanted to make.
“It’s fun to dive into who I am,” said Daniel in a press statement. “For the last few years, I’ve been jotting down notes without even realizing I’m leaving this trail of who I am in the lyrics and music. I’m definitely a whole different person, but I’ve always been this artist. The texture of what I bring was there, but it’s being seen now. So many curveballs in life have changed me. In terms of the music though, it’s never shifted. I consistently try to take different sounds and assemble something you’ve never heard before. I’ve always wanted to do this, and I’m excited to be able to now.”
Watch Daniel Seavey’s the “Can We Pretend That We’re Good” music video
The music video mixes the sacred and profane, obviously informed by his religious upbringing.
At just nine-years-old, Daniel’s father encouraged him to busk at a local art walk on Thursdays. Sitting behind a piano with a small speaker, he attracted crowds of hundreds, filling a hat with enough cash to finance a personal bedroom studio. Since dad also served as a pastor, he developed his chops on the cello by performing in the church band.
“I grew up in a bubble of church, and I didn’t know too much outside of it,” said Daniel. “I’m so thankful, because it was such a pure childhood. The juxtaposition is I joined a band, moved to Los Angeles, and toured the world right after. Seeing some of the craziness influenced me, and you can hear it in my songs. There have been good times and bad times, but it’s interesting to put my thoughts on paper.
Daniel competed on American Idol in 2016 at only 15 years old
Along the way, Daniel auditioned for American Idol in 2015 (the same season as viral artist, Jax), and landed a spot on the season 14 Top 10 at only 15 years old. At the time, he was the youngest contestant to compete on the show. He sang Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” and Paula Abdul’s “Straight Up” during his audition in San Francisco. He eventually left the competition in 9th place.
In 2016, Daniel co-founded Why Don’t We and embarked upon a six-year journey highlighted by over 4 billion global career streams, two RIAA Platinum-certified singles, five RIAA Gold-certified singles, two Top 10 albums on the Billboard 200 chart, and sold out tours with multiple stops at legendary venues such as Radio City Music Hall and more.
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In 2022, he hunkered down in his home studio and wrote and recorded what would become his debut, previewed for fans on social media by a cover of “Hallelujah.” He not only sang and produced, but he also played every instrument.
“For me, it’s special when I listen to an artist and feel them through the music,” he leaves off. “I’ve never been honest to this extent with the lyrics. I’m writing my exact thoughts and feelings. I hope it connects to the moment you’re going through too.”
