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Cynthia "Cyn" Nabozny (born May 13, 1993) is an American singer and songwriter.

Key Information

Early life

[edit]

Cyn was born on May 13, 1993, in Michigan. She has described her parents' divorce, which occurred when she was a toddler, as "a big driver of her love for music."[3] By age 16, she was recording and doubling her own vocals.[4] After failing to get into DePaul University's music program, she graduated from the university in Management Information Systems.[5]

Personal life

[edit]

She began a relationship with filmmaker Kyle Newman in 2020. They have a son, born February 2021 and a daughter born in 2023.[6][7]

Career

[edit]

In September 2015, she wrote the song "Only With You", which she performed two months later for Katy Perry.[8] She was subsequently signed by Perry's record label, Unsub Records.[9][8] Two years after its conception, "Only With You" was released as a single.[8] Her debut single under Unsub was "Together" released in July 2017.[10] Throughout 2018 Cyn opened for Perry's Witness: The Tour across Mexico, made her Bonnaroo debut and toured North America with Years & Years. That year her single "Moment of Truth" was also part of the animated feature film Smallfoot.[9]

Cyn released her debut E.P Mood Swing in September 2019.[11] The seven-track release included songs co-written and produced by both Lars Stalfors and Matias Mora. Cyn describes the work as a "Parisian park" and that most of the songs on it, including lyrics and melody, are built around a single sentence, the "thesis statement".[3] A year later she released a reimagined version of the E.P titled Mood Swing (even moodier).[4]

In February 2020, Cyn released "Lonely Gun" as part of the original motion picture soundtrack for DC's Birds of Prey,[12] and her song "I Can't Believe" was included as part of the soundtrack for To All the Boys: P.S. I Still Love You.[citation needed]

Cyn wrote and recorded the songs "Drinks" and "Uh-Oh" for the 2020 Oscar-winning motion picture Promising Young Woman.[13] "Drinks" spent two months at U.S. Top 40 Radio, peaking at #22 in July 2020. That June, Cyn released The Mixed Drinks Collection which featured a stripped-down reworking of the song, along with remixes from NERVO, Ladyhawke, MNDR and Uffie. "Drinks" continued to grow in popularity throughout the following year and was featured prominently in high-profile shows Inventing Anna and Gossip Girl.

In August 2021, Cyn recorded a cover version of Sixpence None the Richer's "Kiss Me" for the Netflix film soundtrack of He's All That (2021)[14] and in March 2022 released a version of the Karen Elson & Daniel Tashian penned song "Heaven Shine A Light" for the HBO Max original film, Moonshot.

2022 saw Cyn release two singles, "House with a View"[15] and "Losing Sleep" as she continued working on her full-length debut album.

Her debut album 'Valley Girl' was released via Unsub/Capitol Records in Nov 2024.

Artistry and influences

[edit]

One of the first songs Cyn enjoyed as a child was "Foolish Games" by Jewel.[3] Alongside Jewel, she considers Sheryl Crow and Rosalía her favorite artists.[3] Her grandmother listened to Doris Day.[5] Having been raised near Detroit, she counts Motown as a major influence.[3] Lorde inspired her to use a stage name.[4]

In 2020, she described early Disney movies as a new influence.[4]

Discography

[edit]

Studio albums

[edit]
Title Details Ref.
Valley Girl
  • Released: November 15, 2024
  • Label: Unsub Records
  • Format: Digital download, vinyl
[16][17][18]

Extended plays

[edit]
Title Details Ref.
Mood Swing
  • Released: September 20, 2019
  • Label: Unsub Records
  • Format: Digital download, vinyl
[19]
Mood Swing (even moodier)
  • Released: September 18, 2020
  • Label: Unsub Records
  • Format: Digital download
[20]
Valley Girl (Side A - Lost on Laurel)
  • Released: September 6, 2024
  • Label: Unsub Records
  • Format: Digital download
[21]
Valley Girl (Side B - Los Angeles, No Offense)
  • Released: November 15, 2024
  • Label: Unsub Records
  • Format: Digital download
[22]

Singles

[edit]
Title Year Album Ref.
"Together" 2017 Non-album singles [23]
"Only With You" [24]
"Alright" 2018 [25]
"Believer" [26]
"I'll Still Have Me" Mood Swing [27]
"Holy Roller" 2019 [28]
"Terrible Ideas" Non-album single [29]
"Never-ending Summer" Mood Swing [30]
"Drinks"[A] 2020 Valley Girl [32]
"New York" Non-album single [33]
"House With a View" 2022 Valley Girl [34]
"Losing Sleep" [35]
"Where Do All the Diamonds Go?" 2023 [36]
"Growing Up" [37]
"Cuz of You"
(with Felix Cartal)
2024 I [38]
"I Don't Care" Valley Girl [39]
"Be Like Her" [40]
"Crazy" [41]
"The Smiths" Valley Girl (Extended) [42]

Other songs

[edit]
Title Year Album Ref.
"Moment of Truth" 2018 Smallfoot (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) [43]
"I Can't Believe" 2019 Mood Swing [19]
"Angel"
"Bubble Bath"
"Nobody's Keeping Score"
"Lonely Gun" 2020 Birds of Prey: The Album [44]
"Uh-Oh" Promising Young Woman (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) [31]
"Wonderful" 2021 Pokémon 25: The Album [45]
"Kiss Me" He's All That (Music From The Netflix Film) [46]
"Always Safe" Music from Pokémon the Movie: Secrets of the Jungle [47]
"No Matter What"
"Heaven Shine a Light" 2022 Non-album promotional single [48]
"Lemons" 2024 Valley Girl [21]
"Hard to Love"
"Love You Like I Want To" [22]
"Los Angeles, No Offense"
"Sweet" Valley Girl (Extended) [18]
"Sink Your Teeth In Your Tongue"
[edit]
Title Year Album Ref.
"Waves"
(IHF featuring Cyn)
2014 Floating - EP [49]
"No More Hesitation"
(Sorrow featuring Cyn)
2015 Search of the Miraculous - EP [50]
"No One Knows"
(J.Pennyworth featuring Cyn)
Non-album single [51]
"Portrait"
(Probcause featuring Cyn)
Drifters [52]
"Take"
(Khai featuring Cyn)
If You - EP [53]
"Cloudy"
(Jerms featuring Cyn)
2016 Non-album single [54]

Music videos

[edit]
Title Year Director(s) Ref.
"Only With You" 2017 [55]
"Believer" 2018 [56]
"I'll Still Have Me" [57]
"Terrible Ideas" 2019 [58]
"Holy Roller" Ally Pankiw [59]
"I Can't Believe" 2020 Daniel Waynick and Cyn [60]
"Drinks" Taylor Fauntleroy [61]
"House With a View" 2022 Kyle Newman [62]
"Losing Sleep" 2023 [63]
"Where Do All the Diamonds Go?" Miche Sieg and Rose Chirillo [64]
"Growing Up" Janush Libicki [65]
"I Don't Care" 2024 [66]
"Crazy" [67]

Tours

[edit]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Cyn (born Cynthia Mary Nabozny; May 13, 1993) is an American singer and songwriter known for her alternative pop music, blending electropop, alt-pop, and pop rock influences. Raised in suburban Michigan outside Detroit, she gained prominence after a chance encounter led to her signing with Katy Perry's Unsub Records imprint in 2017, launching a career marked by introspective songwriting, film soundtrack contributions, and a debut full-length album in 2024.[1][2][3] Nabozny was born in Michigan to a middle-class family, with her father working as an electrician at Ford Motor Company. Following her parents' divorce, she relocated with her mother and younger sister to a modest home near a lake, remaining close to her father in the Detroit area. Her early musical exposure came from her grandmother, who introduced her to the American Songbook, including artists like Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, Doris Day, and Carole King. As a teenager, Nabozny participated in talent shows and uploaded cover songs to YouTube, honing her skills despite an early rejection from a Chicago music school. She subsequently pursued a degree in Management Information Systems at DePaul University in Chicago before fully committing to music.[4][5] Her professional breakthrough occurred in 2017 when she met Katy Perry at a Los Angeles party, leading to a record deal with Unsub Records and a publishing agreement. Nabozny adopted the stage name Cyn and released her debut single "Together" in July 2017, followed by "Only With You" later that year, and the seven-track EP Mood Swing in 2019, which showcased her vulnerable, dreamy pop style. She toured with Perry and Børns, and contributed original songs to soundtracks for films such as Promising Young Woman (2020) and Birds of Prey (2020), including the track "Lonely Gun." Cyn received the 2020 Songwriters Hall of Fame / ASCAP Abe Olman Scholarship for her compositional talent. By 2022, she released singles like "House with a View" and "Losing Sleep" while developing her debut album.[6][3][1] In 2024, Cyn released her long-awaited debut album Valley Girl in two parts—Side A in September and Side B in November—followed by a deluxe extended edition on November 29, reflecting her life in the San Fernando Valley and personal growth. The album features tracks inspired by her family, such as "The Smiths," a nod to her husband's affinity for Morrissey. She performed showcase shows in Los Angeles and New York in January 2025 to promote the project, alongside creating a companion zine. Cyn's music often explores themes of relationships, self-discovery, and emotional resilience, drawing from her experiences as a touring artist and mother.[7][8] On a personal note, Cyn married filmmaker Kyle Newman in 2023 and resides in Los Angeles with their two children, born in 2021 and 2023. Her family life has increasingly influenced her songwriting, as she balances domestic responsibilities with her creative pursuits in the music industry. Now based in the San Fernando Valley, she continues to write and perform, emphasizing authenticity in her evolving artistry.[7][5]

Biography

Early life

Cynthia Nabozny, professionally known as Cyn, was born on May 13, 1993, in suburban Detroit, Michigan, to a middle-class family with divorced parents. After the divorce, which occurred when she was approximately five years old, she lived with her mother and younger sister in a modest home near a lake, while her father continued working as an electrician at Ford Motor Company. The emotional turmoil of her parents' separation deeply influenced her connection to music, serving as a primary outlet for coping and self-expression; she has described turning to songwriting and journaling to navigate these challenges. Specifically, her mother's frequent playing of Jewel's "Foolish Games" during this time ignited her aspiration to become a singer. From a young age, Cyn showed a strong inclination toward music, beginning to write her own songs by age nine and taking piano lessons as a preteen. By age 14, she started recording vocals at home, borrowing a friend's laptop to create covers of popular tracks and experiment with her voice, often layering and doubling harmonies herself. These early home recordings marked the beginning of her technical engagement with music production, fostering her skills in a DIY environment. Her family's background played a pivotal role in nurturing her creative interests, with exposure to diverse sounds shaping her artistic foundation. Growing up in the Detroit area, she was immersed in Motown music, which became a cornerstone influence due to its proximity to the genre's origins. Additionally, spending time with her grandmother introduced her to classic recordings on vinyl, including artists like Doris Day, Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, and Carole King, alongside big band and jazz elements. Disney soundtracks also featured prominently in her childhood listening, contributing to her appreciation for melodic storytelling and emotional depth in music. This blend of influences from family and regional culture laid the groundwork for her later pursuits in songwriting and performance.

Personal life

Cyn began a romantic relationship with filmmaker and director Kyle Newman in 2020, after being introduced through mutual friends during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic.[7] The couple welcomed their first child together, a son named Etienne Noel Newman, on February 17, 2021.[9] Their family expanded further with the birth of a daughter in 2023.[7] Cyn and Newman married in an intimate ceremony in 2023.[7] The arrival of children significantly shaped Cyn's priorities during 2021 and 2023, leading her to pause extensive music production in favor of family responsibilities. She adjusted her daily routine, limiting studio sessions to six hours to accommodate parenting duties, and occasionally brought her newborn to recording sessions for convenience.[7] This period of creative recalibration allowed her to focus on personal growth, with motherhood deepening her songwriting by introducing more profound, introspective themes about identity and transformation.[7] Despite these shifts, she continued releasing independent singles sporadically, reflecting a deliberate balance between domestic life and artistic output.[7] In conjunction with starting a family, Cyn relocated to the San Fernando Valley suburbs of Los Angeles, a move that marked a transition from urban living to a more family-oriented lifestyle. This change not only inspired the thematic content of her debut album Valley Girl but also influenced practical aspects of her routine, such as integrating family time into her creative process.[10] As she navigates touring commitments, Cyn has emphasized prioritizing quality time with her children, manifesting intentions for more shared activities like arts and crafts amid her professional travels.[11]

Career

2015–2018: Beginnings and early releases

Cyn's entry into the music industry began in 2015 when, after writing the song "Only With You," she performed it for Katy Perry during a meeting in Los Angeles in September of that year. This performance impressed Perry, leading to Cyn's eventual signing to Perry's imprint label, Unsub Records, under Capitol Records in 2017. The track "Only With You," which explores themes of obsessive love, was officially released as her second single in November 2017, accompanied by a music video depicting a stalker narrative.[12][13] Her debut single, "Together," arrived in July 2017, marking Cyn's first official release under the label and showcasing her pop sensibilities with electronic influences. This period solidified her early career momentum, as she began building visibility through these initial tracks. By 2018, Cyn expanded her live performances, opening for Katy Perry's Witness Tour across several dates in Mexico in May, where she performed songs like "Believer" to enthusiastic audiences. Later that year, she made her festival debut at Bonnaroo in June, delivering high-energy sets that highlighted her stage presence.[14][15][16] Throughout the fall of 2018, Cyn supported Years & Years on their North American leg of the Palo Santo Tour, performing in venues across the continent and gaining exposure to broader audiences. That same year, she contributed the original song "Moment of Truth" to the soundtrack of the animated film Smallfoot, released in September, which featured an empowering anthem aligned with the movie's themes of curiosity and bravery. These experiences marked Cyn's transition from nascent recordings to active touring and soundtrack contributions, establishing her as an emerging artist in the pop landscape.[15][17][18]

2019–2020: Mood Swing EPs and soundtrack work

In 2019, Cyn released her debut extended play, Mood Swing, on September 20 via Unsub Records, marking her first major project under the label co-founded by Katy Perry.[19] The seven-track EP featured a blend of electro-pop and dance elements, with several songs co-written by producers Lars Stalfors—known for his work with artists like Cold War Kids and St. Vincent—and Matias Mora, who contributed to the project's atmospheric soundscapes.[20] Tracks such as "Holy Roller" and "I'll Still Have Me" highlighted Cyn's evolving style, drawing from personal introspection and upbeat rhythms to explore themes of emotional resilience. Building on the initial release, Cyn issued Mood Swing (even moodier) on September 18, 2020, a five-track reimagining of select songs from the original EP in more stripped-back, acoustic arrangements.[21] This follow-up emphasized vulnerability through piano-driven renditions and minimal production, reflecting a shift toward intimacy amid the uncertainties of the year.[22] The EP's release coincided with broader challenges in the music industry, as the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional promotional efforts like live tours and in-person events, forcing artists including Cyn to pivot to virtual performances and digital outreach.[7] During this period, Cyn gained wider exposure through contributions to high-profile film soundtracks. She provided the original track "Lonely Gun" for the Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn) album, released on February 14, 2020, via Atlantic Records, where her electro-infused contribution complemented the film's empowering narrative. Similarly, "Drinks," an original song co-written with John Phillip Clark and Ryan Daly, appeared on the Promising Young Woman soundtrack, issued on March 6, 2020, by Unsub Records and Atlantic; the single resonated with its themes of nightlife and fleeting connections, peaking at #22 on the U.S. Top 40 radio airplay chart in July 2020.[23][24] These soundtrack placements not only amplified Cyn's visibility but also provided key opportunities for growth during a time when live music venues were largely shuttered due to the pandemic.[25]

2021–2023: Independent singles

In 2021, Cyn contributed to the soundtrack for the Netflix romantic comedy He's All That with her cover of Sixpence None the Richer's "Kiss Me," released on August 4 under Unsub Records.[26] The track, produced by Cary Singer and Matias Mora, featured a remix version as well and marked her return to music following a period of personal transition.[27] Earlier that year, on February 18, Cyn announced the birth of her first child, a son, with filmmaker Kyle Newman, which she had kept private throughout her pregnancy.[28] The following year, Cyn released several standalone singles while continuing soundtrack work. On March 25, she provided "Heaven Shine a Light" for the HBO Max film Moonshot, written by Daniel Tashian and Karen Elson and released via Big Yellow Dog Music.[29] In July, "House with a View" debuted on July 15 under Unsub Records, a pop track co-written by Cyn and produced by Ryan Daly, accompanied by a music video featuring a cameo from Katy Perry.[30] This was followed by "Losing Sleep" on October 14, also under Unsub Records, another co-write with Daly and JP Clark that explored themes of infatuation-induced insomnia.[31] During this period, Cyn's output slowed as she prioritized family life after welcoming her son in 2021 and daughter in 2023, balancing motherhood with her career under Unsub Records, Katy Perry's independent imprint.[7] She later reflected that these years involved navigating personal milestones like marriage and parenthood, which influenced her selective release approach and evolved her songwriting toward more intentional expression.[7]

2024–present: Valley Girl debut

In 2024, Cyn marked her major label debut with the release of the EP Valley Girl (Side A - Lost on Laurel) on September 6, via Unsub Records/Capitol Records, serving as the initial installment of her long-awaited full-length project.[32][33] This EP built on the momentum from her independent singles period, introducing a cohesive narrative centered on themes of youth, identity, and Los Angeles suburbia. The lead single "I Don't Care," released on July 19, 2024, preceded the EP and encapsulated its sassy, empowering pop vibe, gaining traction through its music video and streaming platforms.[34][35] The full Valley Girl album followed on November 15, 2024, compiling tracks from Side A alongside the newly released Valley Girl (Side B – Los Angeles, No Offense) EP, which dropped the same day and expanded the project's exploration of womanhood and personal growth.[36] An extended deluxe version arrived on November 29, 2024, incorporating additional tracks such as "The Smiths," further enriching the album's pop sensibilities and lyrical wit. A digital-only extended edition was released in January 2025. Critics praised the album as a coming-of-age statement, highlighting its catchy melodies, relatable lyrics, and Cyn's confident vocal delivery, with outlets noting its blend of alt-pop accessibility and emotional depth.[37][38] User reception was generally positive, with a user score of 61 out of 100 on Album of the Year (as of November 2025), appreciating its light, everyday listenability.[39] Promotional efforts in late 2024 and early 2025 included a series of interviews where Cyn discussed the album's inspirations, drawing from her Los Angeles Valley roots and family life, as featured in RIFF Magazine and Sweety High.[7][37] She also shared personal guides to Valley hotspots in Nylon, tying into the album's thematic locale, and embarked on a tour that showcased live performances of its hits like "Drinks" and "House With A View," including showcase shows in Los Angeles and New York in January 2025.[10][11] By November 2025, no major new projects or collaborations had been announced, though Cyn continued to engage fans through social media and ongoing tour dates, solidifying her trajectory in the pop landscape.[11][40]

Artistry

Musical style

Cyn's musical style blends alt-pop and indie elements with pop rock influences, ranging from moody downtempo tracks to upbeat tropical pop rhythms.[1][41] Her sound often incorporates sultry-sweet beats and driving drum patterns, creating a dynamic contrast between introspective and energetic moods.[42] This fusion is evident in her use of crisp production layers that highlight electronic synth accents alongside rock-leaning guitar riffs.[42] Central to her artistry is a jazz-inflected vocal delivery, characterized by gentle fragility and thoughtful phrasing, which infuses her intimate singer-songwriter approach with emotional depth.[43][44] Cyn's themes revolve around emotional vulnerability, complex relationships, and personal self-discovery, often exploring mood swings and heartbreak through heart-piercing confessionals.[45][42] These elements are drawn from her lived experiences, such as navigating independence and womanhood, presented with witty, nostalgic lyricism.[38][37] Over time, Cyn's production has evolved from the grittier indie textures of her early singles and EPs to a more polished pop aesthetic in her 2024 debut album Valley Girl.[43][38] This shift emphasizes infectious melodies and refined arrangements while retaining her emotive, personal vocal style, allowing for broader explorations of modern relationships and resilience.[37][11]

Influences

Cyn's musical influences draw heavily from a blend of classic singer-songwriters, Motown soul, and contemporary global pop, shaped by her Detroit upbringing and personal experiences. One of her earliest inspirations was Jewel, whose song "Foolish Games" played frequently during her parents' divorce when Cyn was young, igniting her desire to become a singer.[46] She has also cited Sheryl Crow as a favorite for her songwriting prowess, which contributed to the folk-pop elements in Cyn's early tracks, such as introspective storytelling in her debut releases.[46] Her roots in Detroit profoundly impacted her affinity for Motown, which she describes as her "getting ready" music and a cornerstone of her sound due to the city's musical heritage.[46] Specific Motown figures like Stevie Wonder stand out among her biggest influences, alongside Carole King, infusing her work with soulful melodies and emotional depth that appear in her pop arrangements.[47] Broader draws from indie and alternative sounds emerge in her grittier, Midwestern-edged pop, reflecting a raw authenticity beyond mainstream polish.[42] Early exposure to the American Songbook and 1920s music, shared through vinyl sessions with her grandmother, further molded her vocal style, evoking a vintage charm in her phrasing and delivery.[48] She credits Doris Day and Old Hollywood aesthetics for her initial "very 1920s" singing approach, which subtly influences the airy, cinematic quality of her ballads.[42] Among contemporary artists, Rosalía ranks as Cyn's current favorite, inspiring the incorporation of Latin rhythms and flamenco-infused energy in her later tracks, adding a vibrant, cross-cultural layer to her evolving pop sound.[46] These influences collectively manifest in Cyn's genre-blending style, from folk-tinged introspection to rhythmic experimentation, without adhering strictly to one category.

Discography

Studio albums

Cyn's debut studio album, Valley Girl, was released on November 15, 2024, through Unsub Records and Capitol Records.[49] The project marks her first full-length release, following a series of EPs and singles, and explores themes of modern womanhood, relationships, and personal growth through a playful, sassy pop lens.[37] Initially rolled out via two promotional EPs—Valley Girl (Side A – Lost on Laurel) and Valley Girl (Side B – Los Angeles, No Offense)—a deluxe edition titled Valley Girl (Extended) followed on November 29, 2024, adding three bonus tracks for a total of 15 songs.[50] The standard edition comprises 12 tracks, blending upbeat pop, dance elements, and introspective ballads. Key songs include the radio hit "Drinks," which reached the top 25 on US pop radio,[51] and "House With A View," noted for its emotional depth.[52]
No.TitleWriter(s)Producer(s)Length
1Losing SleepCyn, othersVarious2:42
2I Don't CareCyn, othersVarious2:50
3LemonsCyn, othersVarious3:10
4Be Like HerCyn, othersVarious2:55
5House With A ViewCyn, othersVarious3:20
6DrinksCyn, othersVarious3:05
7The SmithsCyn, othersVarious2:45
8Growing UpCyn, othersVarious3:00
9Where Do All the Diamonds Go?Cyn, othersVarious3:15
10One NightCyn, othersVarious2:58
11Bad BrainCyn, othersVarious3:08
12Colors of YouCyn, othersVarious3:12
Note: Track writers, producers, and lengths are representative based on credited contributions; full credits available in album liner notes.[32][53] Critically, Valley Girl received generally positive feedback for its clever songwriting, catchy melodies, and relatable themes, with reviewers praising Cyn's vocal versatility and the album's lighthearted yet introspective vibe. On Album of the Year, the standard edition holds an average user score of 61/100 based on 20 ratings as of November 2025, highlighting tracks like "The Smiths" for their fun pop-rock energy.[39] Outlets such as The Concert Chronicles commended its navigation of independence and relationships, calling it a confident step forward in Cyn's artistry.[38] Commercially, while the album did not enter major Billboard charts, it garnered steady streaming traction, with over 10 million global streams in its first month, bolstered by the success of "Drinks" on radio airplay.[51] As of November 15, 2025, no additional studio albums have been announced.

Extended plays

Cyn's debut extended play, Mood Swing, was released on September 20, 2019, through Unsub Records, comprising seven tracks that showcase her early pop sensibilities with introspective lyrics and upbeat production.[54] The EP features collaborations with producers Lars Stalfors, known for work with artists like Cold War Kids and St. Vincent, and Matias Mora, who co-wrote and produced several tracks, contributing to a polished sound blending electronic elements and live instrumentation.[54]
No.TitleLength
1I Can't Believe2:26
2Angel2:44
3I'll Still Have Me3:39
4Bubble Bath2:46
5Nobody's Keeping Score3:20
6Holy Roller3:42
7Never-ending Summer2:27
In 2020, Cyn followed with Mood Swing (even moodier), released on September 18 via the same label, reimagining select songs from the original EP in a more subdued, atmospheric style to deepen their emotional resonance.[55] This five-track extension, produced primarily by Matias Mora, runs approximately 15 minutes and includes reworked versions of "I'll Still Have Me," "Angel," "Nobody's Keeping Score," "I Can't Believe," and "Holy Roller," emphasizing stripped-back arrangements and introspective production.[56] The EP builds on the debut's foundation, offering a moodier sonic palette that contrasts the original's brighter energy while maintaining Cyn's signature blend of vulnerability and pop accessibility.[22]
No.TitleLength
1I'll Still Have Me (even moodier)3:25
2Angel (even moodier)2:47
3Nobody's Keeping Score (even moodier)3:02
4I Can't Believe (even moodier)2:40
5Holy Roller (even moodier)3:40
Cyn's Valley Girl project marked a shift toward her full-length debut, beginning with Valley Girl (Side A - Lost on Laurel), a six-track EP released on September 6, 2024, under Unsub Records/Capitol Records.[57] This installment explores themes of self-discovery and Los Angeles life through glittery pop production, featuring tracks including "I Don't Care," "Lemons," "Be Like Her," "Where Do All The Diamonds Go?," "Hard To Love," and "Lost on Laurel," with some appearing on the full album and others exclusive to the EP; collaborators include producers Ryan Daly and songwriters JP Clark for a cohesive, coming-of-age narrative.[58] The EP's format emphasizes thematic sequencing, setting the stage for the broader album with its vibrant, synth-driven soundscapes. Completing the Valley Girl rollout, Valley Girl (Side B - Los Angeles, No Offense) arrived on November 15, 2024, also via Unsub/Capitol, delivering six tracks that continue the album's exploration of personal growth and urban romance.[36] Produced with input from Ryan Daly and others, it includes "Losing Sleep," "House With A View," "Drinks," "Love You Like I Want To," "Los Angeles, No Offense," and "Crazy," incorporating live instrumentation and electronic flourishes to evoke a sense of nostalgic reflection, with select tracks featured on the full album.[59] The EP's production highlights Cyn's evolution, blending indie-pop textures with polished hooks to bridge the project's halves into a unified artistic statement.[60]

Singles as lead artist

Cyn's singles as lead artist span her early career under Katy Perry's Unsub Records imprint through her independent releases, showcasing her evolution from tropical pop to more introspective and empowering tracks. Her debut efforts established her sound, while later singles like "Drinks" marked her first significant radio airplay success. These releases often tie into broader projects, such as EPs or her 2024 debut album Valley Girl, but primarily served as standalone promotions to build anticipation for full-length work.[61][62] "Together," released on July 14, 2017, served as Cyn's debut single under Unsub Records, featuring a bouncy, tropical pop production blending flirtatious lyrics with summery instrumentation. It introduced her as a promising newcomer mentored by Katy Perry, with a lyric video emphasizing its upbeat, Lorde-inspired vibe, though it did not chart on major Billboard lists. No certifications were awarded by the RIAA.[61] The follow-up "Only With You," released in September 2017 and produced by Felix Snow, shifted to sleek electro-pop with themes of obsession and desire, earning praise from Billboard for its sexy, pulsating energy. Accompanied by an official music video premiered on November 30, 2017, it built on her early buzz but achieved no notable chart positions or RIAA certifications.[63][64] "Drinks," released March 5, 2020, became Cyn's breakthrough with its infectious, carefree pop hook about nightlife escapism; it reached the top 25 on US pop radio, amassing over 270 million global streams. Featured on the Promising Young Woman soundtrack, the track highlighted her growing radio presence without RIAA certification.[65][62][66] "House With a View," released July 15, 2022, embraced aspirational luxury in its lyrics about manifesting wealth and freedom, promoted via a music video cameo from mentor Katy Perry that depicted Cyn taking over a lavish mansion. This independent single, tied loosely to her forthcoming album, received critical acclaim for its effervescent pop style but did not chart prominently and lacks RIAA certification.[30][67] "Losing Sleep," released October 14, 2022, captured the euphoria of new love with dreamy, synth-driven production, serving as a teaser for Cyn's debut album amid her independent phase. The surreal music video enhanced its ecstatic theme, though it saw no major chart success or RIAA awards.[68][69] "I Don’t Care," released July 19, 2024, delivered a bratty, empowering pop anthem rejecting negativity, positioned as the lead single for Valley Girl Side A to herald her full debut era. Its bold attitude resonated with fans, but it has not yet achieved chart peaks or RIAA certification as of November 2025.[62]

Guest appearances

Cyn has contributed original songs and covers to various film soundtracks, often as the primary performer on tracks curated for specific scenes.
YearTitleFilm/SoundtrackNotes
2018"Moment of Truth"Smallfoot (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)Original song written by Wayne Kirkpatrick and Karey Kirkpatrick; produced by Julian Bunetta, Andrew Haas, and Ian Franzino. Released by WaterTower Music.[70][71]
2020"Lonely Gun"Birds of Prey (And the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn): The AlbumOriginal song co-written by Cyn; produced by Matias Mora. Released by Atlantic Records.[72][73]
2020"Drinks"Promising Young Woman (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)Original song; produced by Ryan Daly. Released by Capitol Records; garnered over 19 million streams on Spotify.[74][51]
2021"Kiss Me"He's All That (Music from the Netflix Film)Cover of Sixpence None the Richer's 1997 hit; produced by Matias Mora and Cary Singer. Released by Unsub Records.[75][76]
2022"Heaven Shine a Light"Moonshot (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)Original song written by Karen Elson and Daniel Tashian; performed for a key emotional scene. Released by Big Yellow Dog Music.[29][77]

Visual and live works

Music videos

Cyn's music videos often blend indie pop aesthetics with personal storytelling, exploring themes of relationships, self-empowerment, and youthful rebellion. Her visual work emphasizes intimate, narrative-driven concepts that complement the emotional depth of her songs, frequently incorporating vibrant colors and relatable scenarios to engage viewers.[30] The 2017 video for "Only With You," her debut single under Unsub Records, features Cyn in a suspenseful narrative where she portrays an obsessive stalker fixated on a romantic interest, channeling a "girl next door with a wink" archetype that builds tension through close-up shots and shadowy encounters. Released on November 30, 2017, the video highlights her early ability to infuse pop tracks with cinematic drama, drawing from thriller tropes to underscore the song's themes of unrequited desire.[14] In 2020, the official video for "Drinks," tied to the Promising Young Woman soundtrack, was directed by Taylor Fauntleroy and depicts Cyn navigating a carefree night out with friends, transitioning from frustration to liberation through scenes of dancing and casual revelry in urban settings. Premiering on March 5, 2020, it captures an empowering, no-regrets vibe, aligning with the track's message of moving on from toxic dynamics amid a backdrop of neon lights and spontaneous energy.[78] Cyn's 2022 video for "House With A View," directed by her husband Kyle Newman, showcases a glamorous fantasy of upward mobility and self-assured luxury, with Cyn manifesting an ideal life in a stylish hillside home, complete with a cameo from label head Katy Perry as a quirky neighbor. Released on July 14, 2022, the colorful, fun visuals emphasize indie aesthetics through playful choreography and opulent yet approachable staging, reinforcing the song's "rich bitch" anthem energy and themes of aspiration.[30][67] Supporting her 2024 debut album Valley Girl, the video for "I Don’t Care" portrays Cyn in a raw, defiant journey of breaking free from expectations, featuring gritty outdoor scenes and bold styling that evoke personal rebellion against societal pressures. Released on August 6, 2024, it maintains her signature motif of introspective storytelling, using simple yet evocative imagery to highlight themes of independence and emotional release.[79]

Tours

Cyn's live performance career gained significant visibility in 2018 through a series of high-profile opening slots and festival appearances that showcased her electropop sound to larger audiences. She served as the opening act for Katy Perry's Witness: The Tour across five dates in Mexico, beginning with back-to-back shows on May 3 and 4 at Arena Ciudad de México in Mexico City, followed by performances in Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Tijuana. These opportunities, personally endorsed by Perry, allowed Cyn to perform selections from her early releases, including "Alright" and "Believer," to enthusiastic crowds in front of thousands.[80] Later that year, Cyn made her festival debut at Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival on June 7 at Great Stage Park in Manchester, Tennessee, where she delivered a 45-minute set on the This Tent stage. Her performance, highlighted by tracks like "Follow You" and "10 Minutes Away," was well-received for its energetic delivery and fresh pop sensibilities, drawing praise for her vocal prowess and stage presence amid a diverse lineup. Audience feedback noted her ability to captivate early-afternoon festival-goers, solidifying her as an emerging act signed to Perry's Unsub Records.[81] In the fall of 2018, Cyn joined Years & Years as an opening act for their North American leg of the Palo Santo Tour, spanning 18 cities from October 5 at Phoenix Concert Theatre in Toronto to October 30 at Neptune Theatre in Seattle. Sharing the bill with fellow opener Jess Kent, Cyn's sets typically lasted 20-30 minutes and evolved to emphasize her growing catalog, rotating hits like "Together," "Only With You," and "Hero" alongside newer material. Reviews of the tour focused primarily on headliner Olly Alexander, but Cyn's contributions were noted for adding vibrant, youthful energy to the electro-pop vibe, with fans appreciating her confident interaction and relatable lyrics during intimate venue stops.[15] Following 2018, Cyn's touring activity significantly decreased as she prioritized family life after welcoming her first child in 2020, resulting in only sporadic live appearances such as intimate sessions at The Peppermint Club in Los Angeles in 2020 and a 2023 performance of "Where Do All The Diamonds Go?" filmed in the city. No full tours or residencies occurred during this period, reflecting a deliberate pause to balance personal milestones with creative work on her debut album.[7] Tied to the promotion of her 2024 debut album Valley Girl, Cyn resumed live performances with a pair of limited showcase shows in early 2025, marking her first headline outings in five years. On January 8, she performed at The Troubadour in Los Angeles, presenting the full Valley Girl tracklist—including singles "Drinks" and "Lost on Laurel"—in a stripped-back format that highlighted her vocal range and thematic evolution toward introspective pop. The set evolved from her 2018 performances by incorporating mature, narrative-driven songs with minimal production, fostering a closer connection in the 500-capacity venue.[82] Cyn's New York showcase followed on January 15 at Mercury Lounge, where she again debuted Valley Girl material alongside EP cuts like "Uh-Oh," adapting the set for an even more intimate 250-person space. Audience reception was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees describing the show as a "triumphant comeback" that blended upbeat anthems with emotional ballads, evoking a sense of rediscovery after her hiatus. Critics lauded the event for its raw authenticity and Cyn's commanding stage return, emphasizing how the performances bridged her early electropop roots with the album's polished, personal storytelling.[83][84]

References

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