The Creation of Blush

Emma Paff

Music Journalist Rap/Hip-hop

Fresh out of a breakup, Kevin Abstract returns to his roots to create Blush, a beautiful and moving album with many collaborations. Abstract was born in Corpus Christi, Texas, but grew up in The Woodlands, Texas. Growing up black and queer in a conservative town, Abstract often felt alienated. He channels his unique perspective into his music, using his honesty and vulnerability to create a safe space for listeners to relate and feel validated. His music explores themes of sexuality, mental health, and acceptance.

On the Zach Sang Show, Abstract detailed the creation of the album alongside two of the collaborators, Love Spells and Quadeca. After going through a rough breakup last summer, Abstract moved back to Houston, Texas, to heal and reconnect with his hometown friends. He said that working on this album with people who love and care about him changed his perspective on relationships. He writes the best out of survival and thrives off of chaos. When things feel emotionally heavy, it drives his inspiration and informs his work. During his interview with Zach Sang, Abstract said, “Being dramatic sometimes helps me find my way back to making a record I like.” Blush was created out of the overwhelming emotions he felt going through his breakup.

Ever since his time in BROCKHAMPTON, Abstract has been the king of collaborations. He is constantly connecting with other artists on social media and inviting them into the studio. Blush is no different, featuring artists such as Dominic Fike, Love Spells, Quadeca, Truly Young and Danny Brown. Dominic Fike has been one of Abstract’s inspirations since he found his music. Fike’s melodic voice and storytelling abilities are showcased in the album’s more minimalistic tracks, “Geezer” and “Maroon.”

Quadeca, an artist from Los Angeles, California, played a key role in the production of Blush. He helped complete the mixes and make the tough decisions about what to cut and what to keep. Abstract also utilizes the falsetto voice of Love Spells for the hooks throughout the album. His feminine, breathy vocals add extra layers of depth to Blush’s tracks, giving them a more intimate feel. According to Quadeca, Abstract creates a safe space for artists to create, allowing them the freedom to showcase their talents.

The album itself can be described as moody and intimate. Abstract reflects on the ugly truths about betrayal in relationships and feeling taken for granted. He sheds light on issues that come from queer relationships and the pressure he feels to perform in a masculine way while going through emotional hardships. Blush features a variety of slow jams, upbeat tracks, and rap-heavy cuts. While the production style is modern, the tracks have a nostalgic feel. They are raw and honest, and listening to them feels therapeutic and healing.

Abstract describes Blush as an ever-evolving thing. Unlike BROCKHAMPTON, it is not a set group of individuals. He puts no pressure on defining it and just wants it to be what it is. The album itself feels like a movie to him; it’s theatrical and has a cast. Moving from song to song changes the scenery and allows the different characters to develop their story. The album is a breakup album, giving Abstract the space to express his emotional turmoil. Abstract managed to take his pain and turn it into something beautiful others can relate to. Blush stands out as one of the year’s most notable albums, distinguished by its unique sounds and artistry.