Copyright cover photo: © Paulina / Tom Thums / Hunger Digital
In the world of music, there are collaborations that feel like magic, and then there’s ‘Focus on Me’—a song that shows just how powerful a blend of creativity, talent, and spontaneity can be. This single, released by Paulina, a soulful singer-songwriter from Brisbane, and Tom Thum, a world-renowned beatboxer, is a testament to how music can come to life in the most unexpected ways.
The story behind the song
‘Focus on Me’ wasn’t born in a fancy studio or after months of planning. Instead, it grew out of a simple, impromptu jam session between Paulina and Tom on Instagram. What started as a quick, fun moment between the two artists quickly turned into something much bigger. The video of their jam session went viral, with over 1.4 million views, and Paulina gained more than 15,000 followers almost overnight. This unexpected buzz led them to decide that they should complete the track and share it with the world.
In just one week, the duo had written, produced, and recorded the entire song. It’s a clear example of the magic that can happen when two talented artists come together, with no expectations other than to enjoy the creative process.
Who are Paulina and Tom Thum?
Paulina, based in Meanjin (Brisbane), is no stranger to the music scene. She’s known for her ethereal vocals and deeply emotional songwriting, drawing from her diverse musical influences. Over time, she’s gained recognition, including a ‘Youth Award’ at the Queensland Music Awards, and earned support from major platforms like Spotify and triple j. Her music resonates with listeners because of her authentic storytelling and ability to connect through her lyrics.
Tom Thum, on the other hand, is a beatboxing legend. His skills with his voice have taken him to global stages, and he’s known for creating intricate, symphonic sounds using only his mouth. After his TEDx performance, which became the highest-viewed TEDx video of all time, Tom’s career soared. He has worked with major brands like Pepsi and Audi and has a reputation for pushing the boundaries of beatboxing.
A blend of sounds
What makes ‘Focus on Me’ stand out is the unique combination of Paulina’s soulful vocals and Tom’s innovative beatboxing. This track isn’t just a pop song; it’s a fusion of raw talent and creativity that has an energy all its own. Paulina’s voice carries an ethereal quality, while Tom’s beatboxing creates a symphonic backdrop that fills the song with depth and rhythm. The combination of their sounds feels both fresh and organic, and it’s clear that the song was born out of pure passion for making something special.
Themes of escapism and connection
‘Focus on Me’ is more than just a catchy tune—it’s a song with meaning. The track is about finding a moment of peace and connection in a chaotic world. It encourages listeners to forget the stress of everyday life and focus on the love and joy shared with those around them. In the current climate, where uncertainty and chaos seem to dominate, this song offers a much-needed escape. As Paulina puts it, “It’s about finding solace in music and each other.”
Both Paulina and Tom agree that the song is a reflection of their shared experiences and the creative flow they share. Tom explains, “Paulina and I have managed to find a synergy in our workflow and creativity that I only come across very rarely. I think the fact we both just want to be creative for the sake of simply enjoying the process, makes all of our ideas seem very natural.”
This chemistry between them shines through in the music—there’s no pretension here, just two artists creating something that feels genuine and free.
What to expect from ‘Focus on Me’
Released on January 17, ‘Focus on Me’ is now available on all major streaming platforms. The track offers an unforgettable listening experience that blends Paulina’s emotive vocals with Tom’s innovative beatboxing. It’s a feel-good, energizing track that invites you to press pause on everything else and just enjoy the music.
Whether you’re already a fan of Paulina and Tom or hearing them for the first time, ‘Focus on Me’ is sure to captivate. The song’s energy and creativity make it a standout piece of music that showcases what happens when two artists with a deep connection come together to create.
Final thoughts
In a music industry often dominated by overproduced, formulaic hits, ‘Focus on Me’ stands as a refreshing reminder of the power of collaboration and creativity. It’s a track born from a simple, spontaneous moment that turned into something much more. Paulina and Tom Thum have managed to create a song that feels both personal and universal, offering a moment of escape for listeners everywhere.
If you haven’t already, give it a listen. You might just find yourself getting lost in the music. And who knows? It could be the perfect soundtrack for those moments when you just need to focus on the things that matter most.
Be sure to follow Paulina and Tom on Instagram for updates on their latest releases and upcoming projects—there’s surely more music magic to come from these two talented artists.
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