EMPTY PINATA - I Have A Huge Crush On Doja Cat

On Rotation: EMPTY PINATA  "I HAVE A HUGE CRUSH ON DOJA CAT"

Empty Pinata, a Brooklyn-based indie-rock artist, recently released his debut single and that is bound to have head turning with the title, “I Have A Huge Crush On Doja Cat.” Previously known for this work under the same LA Rodriguez, he shifted his focus from visual storytelling to music, where he works to showcase humor, self-awareness, and sincerity in each release.

Production wise, the track noticeably is reminiscent of many of today’s releases in the indie rock and psych-pop spaces, with guitar backings, casual rhythms, and an easy-listening vocal performance. The upbeat production actually contrasts with the song’s underlying vulnerability, creating a push-and-pull that is often heard in indie music. Fans of artists such as Dominic Fike, Post Malone, and even Vacations will find familiarity in its effortless cool flare.

Lyrically, the song might not be exactly what you expect; just an obvious ode to Doja Cat per se. Through each part of the song, Empty Pinata plays with contradictions, including lyrics like “I might be the out to take you out your house and in my car and break your heart” and *“hate me, date me, and please come in and save me.” All of these capture feelings but with a unique sense of humor. While it’s hard to summarize perfectly, the song seemingly explores admiration and how it’s easy to want the unattainable. Thus, it’s not simple as the title presents and in fact, he never mentions Doja Cat by name if you're listening for a name drop.

If you’re waiting for more, don’t worry. This release is just the first off his upcoming EP Nail Biter, which will further explore introspective themes. Although it’s just one track, this debut showcases Empty Pinata’s indie-pop sensibilities, including skill at blurring the lines between genres, emotions, and cliches. We might just be biting our nails as we wait for his debut EP to give us more to listen to.