With ‘Hollywood’, REXEN sets music to a reality he has encountered in many corners of the world. For him, Hollywood is not just a place in California, but also Dubai, Monaco and Macau – places where wealth and glitter create a veneer of success, yet exploitation and human suffering lurk just beneath the surface.
“Fighting for people’s right to a dignified life is a big part of my work as a political activist. ‘Hollywood’ does not only represent glitter and facelifts, but also human trafficking, sexual exploitation of minors, the oppression of women, racial discrimination and more. Slavery still exists in our world, and it is particularly rife in places where wealth and flashiness form the façade”, he says of the background to his new single.
A Classic Battle
For REXEN, ‘Hollywood’ is a reflection of a struggle as old as human memory itself – the battle between greed and spirituality. It is a conflict that lies at the heart of the world’s religions: in Christianity, the warning against serving mammon rather than God; in Buddhism, the liberation from materialism; in Islam, the caution that wealth can become an obstacle to spiritual life.
“Beyond being a political activist, I am a warrior for the full heart. For those moments when you truly feel alive – when you look into a child’s eyes, or when you can be of service to your fellow human beings. More of that, please. I fight to maintain the balance, in the hope that my work can inspire greater compassion for others and healthier, fairer economic systems”, says REXEN.
Hollywood as Symbol
“I could recommend you, maybe you should go to Hollywood”, REXEN sings with irony in the chorus. The track is a commentary on the entertainment industry, where the pursuit of success through cosmetic surgery overshadows soul and presence:
“In the entertainment industry we become icons of culture, and I stand against a life of emptiness and self-interest.”
Made in one take
The track came about as an improvisation in the studio, where both lyrics and melody emerged in the moment. REXEN brought the riff and the concept, while producer and drummer Silas Tinglef (Trentemøller, Kira Skov) gave the song its final touch with his raw rock and roll vibe.
Also present in the room was REXEN’s muse, Henrï Arthur Gibbs, who always manages to bring out his finest performances. His dancing presence and unmistakable “stank face” during improvisations add that extra energy which allows ideas to unfold.
The song was later mixed by John Parish (PJ Harvey, Sparklehorse) – an idol of REXEN’s since his teenage years.
About REXEN
REXEN holds a Master’s degree in Composition from the Rhythmic Music Conservatory and has released six albums in his own name as well as under aliases such as M. Rexen, Den Magnetiske Ørn, A Key Is A Key and VS DOOM. His music has taken him from the deserts of the Middle East to Roskilde Festival, from Ethiopia to SPOT Festival, from Pakistan to Copenhagen Jazz Festival, and to Real World Studios in England.