Over the course of his young career, Filipino-American singer-songwriter Francisco Martin has already introduced fans to the full spectrum of his diverse artistic identity.
As a 2020 American Idol finalist, he demonstrated that he could be a genre chameleon, covering songs by Kings of Leon, Maggie Rogers and Harry Styles. After his tenure on the show, he embarked on a U.S. tour, sharpening his skills on the stage and adding elements of pop and EDM showmanship to his singer/songwriter foundation.
On this episode of Global Spin, GRAMMY.com's series highlighting artists from around the globe, Martin once again tries something new. Sitting on a rooftop in Manilla, Philippines, he performs an acoustic rendition of "KISSING ON A BALCONY," his new single about the sweeping, giddy emotions that come with new love. The stripped-down version is a complete reinvention of the synth-laden original, further showing Martin’s musical versatility.
"KISSING ON A BALCONY" may demonstrate Martin's romantic side, but it's just one piece of his multifaceted new EP, Manic. Due July 22, the project strives towards encompassing Martin's true self — not just from a musical standpoint, but in terms of his personality and emotions, too.
"I want to push boundaries," he explains in a press statement. "People see one version of me, and I want them to see all of me. I am ready to come out of my shell as an artist and show who I really am as a person."
Altogether, the new collection shares his reflections on interpersonal disconnection, relationships and mental health. That's particularly highlighted in his previously released Manic track, a pounding anxiety anthem titled "Nobody Listens To Me!"
Before Manic's arrival, enjoy Martin's soaring performance of "KISSING ON A BALCONY," and keep checking back for new episodes of Global Spin.
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