Since making his debut about a year ago, singer-songwriter, guitarist and viral content creator Payton, has already racked up some truly incredible statistics – 40 million streams, 800 million likes, 15 million fans on TikTok – and become a considerable force and name in the world of pop and alternative music. He’s also been championed by numerous outlets and publications including Earmilk and Alternative Press, the latter who called him an “artist you need to hear.” He dropped his latest single, pop-punk song “What I Need” at the end of last month, which he describes as being: “…just a feel-good track that feels like summer and hometown vibes. It’s good energy and care free. The guitar sets the mood and it feels like life is just free and simple when you get into the energy of the song.”

The track is the latest of his releases written about real life events and challenging situations he’s faced over the years– something which has allowed him to connect with fans around the world on a deeper, more intimate level; his music and what he has to say through it is honest and deeply relatable. The ability to connect with others is what Payton loves most about being an artist, and this desire and gift is evident through every song he puts out in the world.

Check out the video for “What I Need” above and for more information on Payton, be sure to follow him on Twitter and Instagram.