Riot Games, a premier video game developer and publisher, unveiled its latest virtual band, HEARTSTEEL. This new ensemble features reimagined avatars of popular League of Legends champions: Ezreal (lead vocalist), Kayn (rapper and instrumentalist), Aphelios (instrumentalist and songwriter), Yone (producer), K’Sante (co-leader and vocalist), and Sett (co-leader and rapper). As part of the Riot Games Music (RGM) initiative, HEARTSTEEL follows in the footsteps of widely celebrated acts such as K/DA, Pentakill, and True Damage. It has also been revealed that EXO's Baekhyun will be lending his voice for one of the champions!
Distinguished for their unwavering dedication to authenticity and creative self-expression, HEARTSTEEL's eclectic sound fuses influences from a diverse range of musical genres and periods, creating a singular identity. Their highly anticipated debut single, "PARANOIA," captures the group's character-driven lyricism and electrifying zeal. Fans can eagerly await the track's premiere on Monday, October 23 at 8:00 AM PT, available for streaming on all major platforms and its music video on YouTube.
Maria Egan, Global Head of Music & Events at Riot Games Entertainment, commented on the company's ongoing musical innovation: "Riot's virtual artists consistently redefine musical landscapes for our player base. HEARTSTEEL, a concept much anticipated by our community, is a testament to our unwavering commitment to musical innovation. By marrying the expertise of our in-house creatives with fresh external talents, we've actualized a supergroup symbolizing unity in diversity – mirroring the spirit our player community resonates with."
With this introduction, HEARTSTEEL takes its place alongside Riot's acclaimed virtual music groups. Before HEARTSTEEL's inception, RGM gave rise to the international sensation K/DA, whose track "POP/STARS" not only achieved Platinum status by the RIAA but also set a new benchmark for K-pop group debuts on YouTube. Other noteworthy groups under the RGM banner include Pentakill, boasting significant Spotify listenership, and hip-hop ensemble True Damage. Collectively, RGM's diverse range of virtual artists have accumulated an impressive catalog exceeding 750 tracks with an astounding 10 billion+ streams.
Collaboratively, HEARTSTEEL sees renowned artists BAEKHYUN voicing Ezreal, ØZI as Sett, Tobi Lou representing K'Sante, and Cal Scruby lending his voice to Kayn, promising an enthralling musical experience for fans worldwide.
SETT
Sett is the founder and co-leader of HEARTSTEEL, who started the band after being dropped from his first label. Inspired by the bold, aggressive styles of hip-hop, Sett designed the group's outfits for the PARANOIA music video and collaborated with ØZI on his rap verse.
K’SANTE
As HEARTSTEEL’s co-leader, K’Sante uses his talents as a singer and creative director to shape the band’s vision. In collaboration with tobi lou, K’Sante’s emotionally-attuned lyricism draws inspiration from R&B and hip-hop.
EZREAL
Ezreal first rose to stardom through a manufactured bubblegum-pop hit. As part of HEARTSTEEL, he’s found new freedom in controlling what he creates. Collaborating with BAEKHYUN of EXO, this charming vocalist takes inspiration from his fans around the world.
KAYN
Kayn is a wildcard, channeling his rebellious streak through Rhaast, his onstage alter-ego. Kicked out of his former band, the multi-genre rapper and instrumentalist leans into everything new and experimental. Collaborating with Cal Scruby, Kayn pushes the envelope wherever he is.
APHELIOS
As HEARTSTEEL’s primary instrumentalist and lyricist, Aphelios brings a quiet genius to the band’s songwriting and composition. Though he rarely speaks, his pursuit of musical perfection guides the group. With his array of instruments (and a little help from his twin sister Alune), Aphelios aims for new creative heights.
YONE
Once a producer on international pop hits, Yone grew disillusioned with the music industry’s idea of success. Now revitalized as part of HEARTSTEEL, Yone brings an analytical focus and sharp production skills to the band. His passion for electronic music and meticulous attention to detail shapes their sound.
BAEKHYUN is a member of the K-pop group EXO and SuperM, and is recognized as one of the top vocalists in K-pop. His previous credits include three successful mini-albums (City Lights, Delight, and Bambi) as a soloist, as well as various standalone singles and OSTs. Particularly noteworthy is his global popularity, marked by achieving his 9th million-seller record, encompassing both group and solo albums.
Cal Scruby is a Los Angeles based rapper best-known for his clever lyrics and quirky visuals. His music touches on relatable topics with an array of sports references and self-deprecating humor. In addition to Riot, he has previously partnered with top brands including the NFL, EA Sports, and Ciroc Vodka.
Born in Los Angeles and raised in Taipei, ØZI rose to stardom through his illustrious career in the Mandarin music scene. His versatility as a singer-songwriter, music producer, performer, and creative director has earned him countless accolades in the industry. His debut album "ØZI: The Album" was recognized with six nominations at the prestigious Golden Melody Awards, the highest honors in Mandarin music, and he was also awarded "Best New Artist."
Tobi Lou is a multi-talented artist who has made a significant impact on the contemporary music scene. Born in Nigeria but raised in Chicago, Lou has carved out a unique lane for himself, where he fuses elements of hip-hop, R&B and pop with undeniable melodies. His breakout single, "Buff Baby," garnered him significant attention and positioned Lou as an artist to watch.
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