After releasing FOTO earlier this month and announcing a nationwide tour last week, KOTA The Friend continues to fill May with musical gems with the liberation of his “Bagels” visual. Keeping with the trend he touched on in our interview, KOTA uses the video as a teasingly intriguing preview, cutting the 4:12 record down to a just shy of 2-minute snippet.

Shot in the style of a slightly animated photograph fotograph, viewers see the Brooklyn-bred artist kicking the sing-songy prose as a Queen rests her head on his shoulder. “Bagels” features comforting content, with KOTA lacing the engaging energy of the production with his calmly delivered yet depth-laden lyrics. The track has some “You Got A Friend” vibes, which couple nicely with the modern authenticity KOTA brings to the table.

We’re all a little – or a lot – fucked up and messy. Acknowledging that in ourselves and others while still keeping your heart and mind open to love – loving life, loving others, and loving the self – has the power to free you from toxic cycles of judgment and self-sabotage. Wrapping the compassionate, warm and positive message in his clever wordplay, “Bagels” rises to the surface as an anthem for pureness and nonconformity. If you dig someone, don’t try to change them. Because then you merely find attraction to an idea – an illusion – of who that person could be. And don’t allow someone else to interfere with you being you’re true, raw and authentic self.

The full version of “Bagels” includes the beautiful addition of Lizzy Ashleigh, who trades verses with KOTA. Lizzy’s feature on the joint is a must hear, taking the fun, thought-provoking track to an even greater level of vibrant life. To hear the song in its entirety, take some time to sit with FOTO, which is available now on all major streaming platforms.

KOTA The Friend will be embarking on a tour in support of his new album, with the first stop taking place in Grand Rapids this Friday. For tickets and info, head here.

Enjoy the visual snippet of “Bagels” below.