Pop songs don’t come much more inspiring than KOTA!’s new track ‘Eyes Wide Open’. As the New Mexico artist shares the backstory of her acclaimed self-titled debut album, we take a look at how her latest single has become a shimmering song with a powerful modern-day message. 
Rising artist KOTA! has released her new single, ‘Eyes Wide Open,’ as she marks an ambitious start to the New Year. ‘Eyes Wide Open’ was shared with the world on January 23rd, and marks the lead single from her self-titled debut album.
As far as big New Year plans go, it’s fair to say that KOTA!’s debut album has shown she’s accomplished more ahead of the game than most. But the groundwork for this album has been laid for many, many years. Indeed, KOTA! has said she spent most of her life writing songs and honing her craft, all in preparation for becoming the artist she wanted to be.
For those who don’t know her, KOTA!’s music lies somewhere between the alt-grunge of No Doubt and the unabashed rock-nu-metal of Evanescence. It’s the sound of an artist being forthright with their emotions, at a time in the music world where too many of are afraid of saying how they feel.
This forthrightness feeds into ‘Eyes Wide Open,’ which is as powerful a single as you’re likely to hear this year. Written with and produced by Alex Stacey (who has also worked with Mika, Bellah Mae, Westlife), ‘Eyes Wide Open’ positions itself as a big, anthemic rock number. The song’s lyrics are incredibly nuanced and expertly delivered. ‘Eyes Wide Open’ is a meditation on doubt, dissatisfaction, and what it means to truly grab at opportunities when they’re offered to you: “Should I make it happen,/Or do I let it happen to me?/Can’t be rewound, To missed out opportunities./Do I let it happen, Or should I make it happen for me?/Breaking it down, To random possibilities.”
‘Eyes Wide Open’ comes at a pivotal time for KOTA! She has just released her self-titled debut album with the world, offering listeners 12 songs to enjoy (all of which tell their own story about her evolving artistic style). KOTA! – the album – sounds like a manifesto for uniqueness and eclecticism.
In the coming months, expect to see KOTA! everywhere, as her profile continues to grow. Her fashion aesthetic – which she calls “girly meets grungy” – is hard to miss as it is, but KOTA! has also shared that she expects to be touring later in 2025. With her current music catalog, we expect these live shows to be extremely raucous affairs. Brace yourself, KOTA!’s on the rise.
‘Eyes Wide Open’ was released on January 23rd, on the same day as she released her self-titled debut album. You can stream KOTA!’s songs here.
