Song of the Day: Har Mar Superstar - Lady, You Shot Me

Every Monday through Friday, we deliver a different song as part of our Song of the Day podcast subscription. This podcast features exclusive KEXP in-studio performances, unreleased songs, and recordings from independent artists that our DJs think you should hear. Today’s song hails from the weird genius of Har Mar Superstar. "Lady, You Shot Me" is the lead single from his new album Bye Bye 17, out now on Cult Records.

Har Mar Superstar - Lady, You Shot Me (MP3)

Where do you even start with an introduction for Har Mar Superstar? Sean Tillman has been genre bending and stripping on stage since the late 90s. His R&B alter ego/true personification Har Mar Superstar has made hits for himself and for others (including the Cheetah Girls and Jennifer Lopez) that astound and amaze. And while his unique artform has on occasion gone misunderstood, Tillman continues to push the envelope and push himself into more challenging and shapeshifting territory. His new record Bye Bye 17 is no exception.

With "Lady, You Shot Me", Tillman goes into classic R&B territory with a sprawling tune that does a great job showing off his vocal range. Of course, we've known Tillman has serious chops in a roundabout way with songs like "DUI", but it's nice to see them here out front in full force. After a bombastic intro, the track kicks into a strolling groove where Har Mar croons away the blues. The instrumentation is great here - utilizing a full horn section, Tillman gives the single a full sound that feels gives is a complete and accessible vibe. And with a dramatic key change near the end, he pounds out one of the better singles of his career.

Grab "Lady, You Shot Me" above and check out the rest of Bye Bye 17, out now. Har Mar Superstar is touring in support of the record this fall, and will be coming to Portland on Portland on October 9, and Spokane on October 11. Check out the video for "Lady, You Shot Me" below and see Har Mar get classy.