Marcus Skeen Blurs Desire and Reality on Seductive New Single “Papers”

merging Tennessee artist Marcus Skeen continues his sonic ascent with his latest single, “Papers” — a seductive, slow-burning blend of electronic R&B and pop that taps into themes of desire, distraction, and the morally murky intersections between the two. With a sultry rhythm and an air of unspoken tension, the track marks another bold chapter in Skeen’s ever-evolving narrative.

Built around the metaphor of an office affair, “Papers” peels back the layers of passion used as a coping mechanism in the face of chaos. “It’s about an affair meant to distract from the terrifying world news,” Skeen explains. “It represents giving into our desires to drown out reality, even in the most inappropriate settings.” That tension — between indulgence and consequence — pulses through the song’s glossy production and dark lyricism.

From the moment the beat kicks in, “Papers” oozes with atmosphere. Slick synth lines and a moody, minimalist groove lay the foundation, while Skeen’s smoky vocals slink over the track with equal parts swagger and sincerity. There’s a cinematic quality to it all — like a dimly lit scene from a modern noir, where every glance and decision carries weight.

Crafted entirely by Skeen himself — from the writing and recording to mixing and mastering — the track is a testament to his all-encompassing artistry. His attention to sonic detail gives “Papers” its edge: sleek but gritty, clean yet emotionally fraught. It’s this careful balancing act that’s fast becoming his signature.

With “Papers”, Marcus Skeen proves he is a master of atmosphere — an artist who turns vulnerability into velvet and tension into allure.