Monica Aben, the emerging artist from California, celebrates her 30th birthday with the release of her latest single, "That Kind of Happy". This heartfelt track, reflects Monica's yearning for a simpler time before the era of smartphones. "That Kind of Happy" nostalgically pays homage to millennials who grew up without constant connectivity and explores the longing for a return to those days of riding bikes, calling landlines and genuine human connection.
Monica's musical journey, influenced by her early mastery of piano and guitar, has led her to discover her unique gift for songwriting. Her poetic lyrics and melodies draw inspiration from artists like Keane and Taylor Swift, resulting in a captivating blend of folk and pop. With electronic arpeggiated chords, electric guitars and big acoustic drums, the track is perfect for a nostalgic drive.
The accompanying music video, directed and edited by Monica herself, beautifully complements the song's essence. It vividly captures the experience of rediscovering the joy of life and nature while escaping the omnipresence of technology. The video's vignettes transport us to a time when being disconnected meant being free, highlighting the desire to reconnect with a more authentic and human way of living.
Monica says, “That Kind of Happy” is an ode to millennials as we were the last generation to grow up without cell phones. We were the last ones to know how sweet it was to be unreachable… Riding bikes to friend’s houses, calling landlines and having to talk to our crush’s parents. We never knew how much we’d miss it. It’s an ode to simpler times, simpler ways of life. We have become so disconnected from our natural world and each other at the hands of convenience and tech. While it's not all bad, I find myself increasingly drawn to the old, traditional ways. Growing your own food, eating dinner with your family and friends, spending hours outside not knowing what time it is until the sun goes down. Tapping back into our natural humanity and inherent connection to everything around us. That’s the kind of “happy” I’m longing for…”
