[Cover photo credit to Anne Zheng Chen]

Boston-based Pop-Funk singer/songwriter and Producer Otis Zheng has shared track and video, “Wake Up,” out now, which is “an exploration of the human condition and an attempt to avoid the robotic monotony of everyday life.”

Crossing both cultural and genre barriers, Zheng brings together his experiences living in both China and the U..S. to deliver his own blend of Pop, Funk, Disco and R&B, which he has “fused with honest societal commentary.”

Written during the height of the pandemic, Zheng says the track marks a major turning point in his life. He began taking stock of his life and the changing world around him, facing new pressures and existential questions. As the song took shape, it “morphed into a reminder to center joy.”

Zheng continues:

The clash of Eastern and Western cultures, shifting life stages, and the pressure from the pandemic had me feeling down, like I couldn’t see a future. But that pressure pushed me to rebuild my inner world and perspective. I realized that living is a choice; choosing happiness and living in the present is a strength. I wanted to write a song that could be a reminder for myself and others who may feel lost like I once did. We can choose to live joyfully.

Its accompanying video, directed by Landon Yost and co-creative directed by Zheng and Loris Russier, depicts various stages of life, opening with a pool party surrounded by friends. Finally, it leads to “becoming aware of the harsh realities that exist within society, feeling like a pawn being controlled by those in power, forced to participate, giving way to confusion and madness.”

Ultimately, Zheng finds, “instead of chasing after elusive things, it’s better to live in the present and enjoy the life you have.”