Stringz EMB Talks ‘Save Me’ Video
“Maybe before I save you,” KV the Writer sings on the soulful new single “Save Me” by St. Louis R&B and hip-hop singer and songwriter Stringz EMB, “I should try to save myself.” It’s a reasonable rejoinder to a desperate request for a lifeline and an acknowledgment that those who ride to the emotional rescue of a lover are just as unprepared for success as they are for failure. It’s natural for people in trouble to reach for each other, but when they do, they’re likely to find togetherness as challenging as solitude.
That’s the dilemma that Stringz EMB and KV the Writer (with warm, smooth, sweet-as-honey background vocals from the multi-talented Jay Marie) explore in the beautifully written, heartfelt verses to “Save Me.” In language that’s alternately poised and urgent, the two artists make their desire for romantic connection palpable — but they also signal their unreadiness for it. Structured like an exchange between lovers, “Save Me” tells parallel stories of a pair of young people stumbling toward each other, holding on for dear life, and wondering whether it wouldn’t be wiser to let go.
If that sounds like a lot for a pop-soul song to accommodate, it is. But Stringz EMB specializes in fitting big feelings into smooth, club-ready packages, and his ability to inhabit his scenarios and articulate complicated concepts has made him a legendary figure in the St. Louis R&B underground. In KV the Writer, he’s found an ideal accomplice: a young vocalist who makes interpersonal predicaments come alive for the listener in unsparing language and powerful images. The production on “Save Me” is sultry, sleek, and engrossing, and it foregrounds the song’s undeniable hooks. But the real special effects here are the two singers, who make every word and every syllable count.
Miguel Orjuela’s elegant clip for “Save Me” underscores and intensifies the song’s themes. We’re shown a couple coping with the fallout of a stroke of good fortune: one partner gets a job opportunity overseas, and the other is left behind in a stylish but austere apartment that reflects his desolate inner state. His texts go unanswered, his appeals do nothing to change his fate, and even his fantasies turn against him. It’s telling that Orjuela and Stringz EMB don’t depict their characters as conventionally troubled people. They’re successful young city dwellers who seem superficially happy together. Yet they lacked what it took to save the relationship — and what it takes to save each other.
“Save Me” is jam-packed with talent. Can you describe the collaboration process between all of the creatives involved on this project?
First off, thank you so much! I truly appreciate you. And yes, I’d love to describe the process. I tend to consider myself an executive producer. I connected with my bro, Dave Beats, on the production. He’s an extraordinary producer from Guam. As soon as I heard his creation, my ears started spinning. It’s always amazing to see and witness the level of talent there is in the entire world. I vibed to the track for a few minutes and then I began to hum the melody. I quickly filled in the words, and there you have it.
After hearing my first verse and hook, I instantly heard KV’s voice on it. I’ve been wanting to work with her for a long time and God just delivered me the perfect opportunity on a sonic platter. I sent it over to her and she obliged.
We connected in the studio and I was instantly blown away when she laid her part. That was my first time hearing it. I like to create that way. I believe in allowing a star to be a star. The vibe was so organic and you can feel it in the song. My sister and background singer, Jay Marie, came through and kissed some soft harmonies on the hook. I’m all about the ear candy, and she effortlessly put the icing on the cake for me.
What was the storyboarding process for the music video? It is beautifully shot and so cinematic! What is your favorite element of the visual?
The process of shooting the “Save Me” video was amazing. Shout out to Miguel, Maria, and The Mavo Group. They really made me feel like the superstar that I am. We talked about the video treatment and storyboard all the way down to the color pallet and character dialogue. Once I approved everything, they went full force with the execution. I have to give a sincere thank you to EVERYONE who volunteered from Lindenwood University. Such an amazingly talented group of individuals all in one place; how can this thing NOT be epic.
It was a two-day shoot. They shot the relationship/romance portion on Saturday. I was only able to pop in and leave the crew hydration and snacks. Then my little ones and I had to leave. That Saturday was extremely busy for me as I headlined a primetime slot at our Annual GroveFest. Over 50k were in attendance – it was INSANE! The next day, KV the Writer and I were able to come through and shoot our performance shots. It was so awesome working with the crew. They really made things soooo easy. We had a blast.
What about the “Save Me” song and music video are you most proud of, and why?
I’d say that I am most proud of the entire project as a whole. I’m not sure of what genre or vibe that comes off to other listeners, but to me, it’s an audible masterpiece. Chill and relaxation is the mood. It’s the kind of tune that you can have playing in the background of ANY situation and it fits. Creation-wise, that’s what I’m all about. Diverse vibes. I want to be the vibe that matches your mood.
The visual is so damn beautiful to me. By far, my best video so far. It meshes with the crisp sound so perfectly. The storyline is so easy to resonate with; love and loss has swooped through everyone’s life in some form or fashion. This is now the national theme song life’s romantic roller coaster.
How is the message of “Save Me” relevant to current day relationships? How do you hope it impacts listeners?
I feel that the message of “Save Me” is relevant because it speaks directly to the soul of connection. Lyrically, it’s a love song that asks a partner to believe, stay down, and allow growth in the midst of life. One may blossom much quicker than expected, and if that happens, just promise that you’ll be there to “Save Me” and keep me grounded.
I hope it impacts listeners in a way that makes them listen and judge their own relationship. Love is kind and love is patient.
What would you like to share with your audience? Are there any current or upcoming projects that you can reveal?
I’d like to thank those who listen, follow, and support. Continue to love me and I promise to keep you entertained. Share me with your best friend, your mother, your brother, and everyone that you love, lol.
My next project is an up-tempo soul track titled, “The Gag.” I can’t wait for you all to see what we have in store for that one.
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About the Author
Dr. Jerry Doby Editor-in-Chief of The Hype Magazine, Media and SEO Consultant, Journalist, Ph.D. and retired combat vet. 2023 recipient of The President's Lifetime Achievement Award. Partner at THM Media Group. Member of the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture, the United States Press Agency and ForbesBLK.
