Nian Tong releases his introspective EP Gradually, blending retro-inspired melodies with personal stories of love and growth.
The second EP of Nian Tong, Gradually, expands on the emotional world of his earlier work. The project captures modern romance shaped by distance, ambiguity, and personal growth. Most of the songs were written during his first year in London. They reflect a deeply personal experience of a relationship that never fully materialized, exploring both the confusion of being ghosted and the slow process of moving forward.
Opening track “What’s On Your Mind” blends modern and nostalgic influences. Hip-hop-inspired beats meet string quartets, mellotron, and doo-wop piano. The result mirrors hope and uncertainty. “I Shouldn’t Have Talked to You” follows as a stripped-back piano ballad.
It conveys confrontation and clarity, capturing both frustration and tenderness. The title track “Gradually” reflects letting go, pairing acoustic guitar and layered synths with textured choruses that evoke overlapping thoughts. Closing track “Whatever You Do” brings lightness and optimism, combining a Motown-inspired melody with synth-led production.
Produced entirely by Nian, Gradually marks an evolution in his sound. It leans into a lighter, modern palette while retaining melodic richness and retro sensibilities. Remote collaborations from musicians across the US, Mexico, and Spain, plus Grammy-winning engineer Darrell Thorp, give the EP both intimacy and scope. With prior work generating over 7 million streams and collaborations with major Chinese artists, Nian Tong is emerging as a distinctive voice in modern indie pop.
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From Songwriter to Frontman
Nian Tong is a London-based singer-songwriter, producer, and composer. He blends emotionally driven indie pop with warm harmonies and a whimsical melodic style inspired by 1960s and 1970s pop. His songs explore love, intimacy, and disconnection. They turn personal experiences into something playful, sincere, and quietly affecting.
Nian began his career writing and producing for other artists. Over time, he transitioned into performing. Writing lyrics became a turning point, allowing him to tell his own stories in his own voice. He developed his vocals during the pandemic and released his debut EP in 2023. Later that year, he moved to London. Immersed in the city’s live music and art scene, he fully embraced life as a frontman.
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