Most know Botticelli’s painting “The Birth of Venus” as a masterpiece of the Renaissance era. It’s a striking depiction of the goddess of love and sex, Venus, washing to shore in a shell–windswept and delicately modest as her golden locks drape
over her feminine frame. While this romanticized notion of womanhood has graced the hearts (and laptop cases) of people around the world, a modern understanding of love begs the question of how present Venus really is in our everyday lives. Where is her warmth in heartbreak? Where is her soft touch in the devastation of being ghosted? If Venus is supposed to be in charge of love, I think it’s safe to say we all have some serious questions for her.
Rising popstress McCall was born in Atlanta, Georgia, a far cry from Rome, but addresses these misadventures in love in her latest single, “Stone Cold.” McCall is only 20, but her lyrics speak to the universal experience of being unable to pull away from a bad relationship. Bubbling with venom and perfectly cut with McCall’s silky vocals, the elements combine to create an upbeat pop banger with dark undertones.
After a few years studying Popular Music at the University of Southern California, McCall dropped out to pursue music full time. Since then, she’s released her single “Why I’m Here,” and “Stone Cold,” which teases her forthcoming album. Her phrasing and lyricism speak for themselves, and her presence both onstage and through DSPs is magnetic.
“Stone Cold” plays on the vulnerabilities that come with the back and forth of a toxic relationship. She sings,
“You’re so stone cold, talkin’; like you own me. I’m so wrapped up in everything you say. Over again leaving me lonely, but I can’t walk away.”
Directed by Griffin Meyer, the accompanying video for “Stone Cold” plays off the ethereal qualities often seen in depictions of Venus. Tight shots of the female form, porcelain statues and a plush velvet couch all allude to the softness Venus represents.
The video takes a turn as McCall smashes the face of a statue with a golden hammer and jams out on guitar while a banner of Venus goes up in flames, giving the goddess of love a message about her shoddy work. If the single wasn’t addicting enough on its own, the video takes McCall’s project to another level by pushing rich elements of art history and greek mythology to the forefront of the story.
Stay tuned for more from McCall soon, and keep your distance from Venus in the meantime.
For the latest in fashion, music, and lifestyle — follow us @HOLRMagazine.