Windsor, ON-based Addi John’s New Single “Busan” Explores Connection Across Continents
Building on the momentum of a breakout debut year, London, ON-born, Windsor, ON-based artist and producer Addi John officially ushers in 2026 with the release of his latest single, “Busan.” Available now, the track serves as a soaring exploration of the threads that bind us across oceans and time zones. Following the success of his 10-track record ‘Another Way To Love’ and two internationally recognized singles, “Busan” highlights Addi’s signature ability to craft music for the hopeful and the adventurous.
Addi’s artistic journey is defined by a spirit of independence and creative evolution. After years of touring with the award-winning project “Lost in Japan,” Addi has stepped into the spotlight as a formidable solo force, earning a nomination for FCLMA “Producer of the Year”. His music, often described as an inviting blend of sad songs and sing-alongs all the way to indie pop, captures the essence of human connection, ensuring every listener feels like part of a larger story.
The inspiration for “Busan” grew from a profound period of change within Addi’s own family, as his mother relocated to France and his brother moved to the South Korean city of the song’s title. Rather than focusing on the distance, Addi chose to celebrate the enduring nature of their bond, writing from a perspective of shared experience. The track mirrors the feeling of an adventure, capturing the wonder of discovering unique, hidden gems in an unfolding city. As Addi poignantly sings: “Find your way soon / We’re under the same moon / I’ll always be with you”.
A master of his craft, Addi served as the sole songwriter, composer, and producer for “Busan,” performing every instrument heard on the track. This minimalist and meticulous approach to production was honed in his home-built studio in Windsor, where he continues to produce for a diverse range of musicians. The result is a familiar yet fresh sound that allows his strong songwriting and authentic voice to resonate deeply with a global audience.
The accompanying music video for “Busan” further emphasizes Addi’s commitment to community and his identity as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. Shot in a single day, the video features a diverse cast of fans from various backgrounds and cultures, all invited via social media to sing along in a display of unity. This collaborative spirit reflects Addi’s overarching goal: to create a space where listeners can forget everything else and simply live in the moment.
As Addi prepares for the release of his upcoming album, ‘Love & Misfortunes,’ he is set to bring his captivating live show to stages across the globe. After a series of Ontario dates supporting John Muirhead in February, Addi will embark on an extensive European tour this April, with stops in Germany and France. With “Busan” setting the stage, Addi is firmly positioned as one of Canada’s most promising artists to watch in the coming year.
“Busan” is rooted in your family being spread across France and South Korea — how did writing this song help you process that physical distance emotionally?
Great question, it really was a huge change in my life that I needed to take time to figure out. This song kind of started without an idea of what the song was about. As I continued writing Busan it actually made me feel closer to my family. Music is weird like that.
You wrote, produced, and performed every part of “Busan.” How does total creative control change the way a song comes together for you?
Well first and foremost it really makes you question every decision. For instance, when you’re by yourself working on music you really have to have this kind of trust with yourself. Which isn’t always an easy thing to do. The benefits of working alone however, are that you can work at whatever pace works best for you. For myself, I work very fast with producing and writing. I usually have the first mix for my song done within 3 days after recording.
As an LGBTQIA+ artist, how intentional are you about creating inclusive spaces through both your music and visuals?
Everything I do is meant to be inclusive of everyone. I want everyone who comes to support me at one of my shows or stream my music to know that I care about them and truly will always make it my mission to keep my shows safe and inclusive. Even with this new single every one of my fans in the music video were of different cultures, sexualitys and backgrounds. I wanted to showcase that we are all connected underneath it all.
With Love & Misfortunes on the way, where does “Busan” sit emotionally within the larger album narrative?
Busan sits pretty heavily with the narrative for this record. This upcoming record is really focused on change, acceptance and connections. Each song on my upcoming record tells a different version of the same story. I chose this narrative to get the point across that this world is smaller than we think.
As you take this music to Europe next, what do you hope international audiences take away from your story and sound?
My main goal for all my audiences is always this; I want you to feel like you matter, and that my music can go with you wherever you go. I want my listeners all over the world to know that with everything going on we need more connection. Social media is great at showcasing bad news to boost their algos. I want to offer a break from the monotony and algorithms at my shows. I want everyone to truly live in the moment.
Connect with Addi John:
Website
Bandcamp
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Instagram
TikTok