A Journey Born in Sacramento
ShaynetheCub, a singer and songwriter from Sacramento, California, has always kept his musical pursuits under the radar. Yet, it’s the quiet drive behind his work that gives his songs a unique authenticity. His journey began in 2017 when he started crafting melodies and lyrics that resonated with his own experiences. Now, after years of honing his craft in relative secrecy, he’s sharing his latest musical creation: the EP Mind Games.
The EP is more than just a random collection of tracks—it’s a carefully curated showcase of his evolution as an artist. Though he’s not one to broadcast his talent from the rooftops, the moment people heard his single “Both Sides,” they recognized something special. The positive feedback encouraged him to keep writing tunes that tell real, human stories.
The Inspiration Behind Mind Games
When looking back at all the songs he has written over the years, ShaynetheCub realized many of them explored themes of love, conflict, and emotional growth. This led him to see the tracks almost like chapters from a collection of romantic novels—each one capturing a distinct emotional snapshot. It felt natural, then, to name the EP Mind Games. After all, romantic narratives often involve their fair share of mental back-and-forth, and his songs mirror that same complexity.
What makes Mind Games particularly engaging is its honest approach to storytelling. ShaynetheCub isn’t afraid to admit that, at times, his lyrics might be “too honest,” but he firmly believes that’s exactly what listeners need. Whether the track focuses on heartbreak or personal triumph, he embraces raw emotion without filter, hoping it resonates with those searching for genuine, relatable music.
Inside the EP: A Collection of Stories
Mind Games features 12 tracks, each with its own distinctive flavor. Standouts include “Both Sides,” the song that sparked growing attention. Listeners admired its candid lyrics and soothing melody, which balances just the right amount of vulnerability and hope. It addresses the complexities of seeing a situation from multiple angles—a reminder that life is rarely one-sided.
Other tracks like “Wrong” and “Doctor” delve into the emotional weight of making mistakes and seeking solace in the midst of confusion. “Slowly” and “Nightmare” offer a darker touch, exploring the battles of the human mind when doubts linger too long. Then there’s “Two Birds” and “Summer Haze,” which add an airier feel, capturing moments of lighthearted reflection and the warmth of fleeting summer days.
More sentimental pieces like “This Dance” and “Happy Ever After” illustrate the romantic underpinnings that initially inspired him to name the EP Mind Games. These songs reflect an earnest desire for connection, dancing between the lines of fantasy and reality. Finally, tracks like “Burn” channel deeper intensity, reminding listeners that sometimes pain is an inevitable part of growth. Each piece is woven together by an overarching narrative of pushing through challenges in pursuit of personal truth.
Bringing Music to Those Who Appreciate It
If there’s one thing ShaynetheCub hopes to achieve with Mind Games, it’s to place his songs in the hands—and hearts—of people who will genuinely appreciate them. He’s well aware that not everyone enjoys the same type of music, and he’s at peace with that. Instead, he focuses on connecting with those who find solace and inspiration in his brand of honest storytelling.
He may be low-key about his musical endeavors, but he’s anything but shy when it comes to expressing himself through lyrics. Each track on Mind Games is a testament to his dedication to craft, as well as his unwavering belief in the power of authenticity. Listeners who crave heartfelt narratives, layered melodies, and a voice that isn’t afraid to share personal truths will find much to love in this EP.
By reflecting on his journey from 2017 to the present, ShaynetheCub has pieced together a musical diary that resonates with the human experience. In a world that sometimes feels saturated with polished, but impersonal music, Mind Games breaks through with honest emotion and raw vulnerability. For those in search of relatable stories and catchy tunes, this EP promises to engage the mind and touch the heart—inviting everyone to partake in its subtle, stirring reflections on life and love.