08 DECEMBER 2023 (TORONTO, ON) – Today, LA-via-Ontario rising star Johnny Orlando shares The Ride: Part 3 out today via Universal Music Canada/Republic Records. The third installment of his ongoing project that explores all the stages of a relationship when looking back on a first love. The final chapter of Orlando’s vulnerably crafted story, The Ride: Part 3 dives into feelings of nostalgia, yearning, and romanticization with tracks “Close To You” and “Thinking Of Me" and their accompanying visuals.

STREAM "CLOSE TO YOU" BELOW
STREAM "THINKING OF ME" BELOW

Johnny shares “Part three is the final stage of the experience, I think of it as true reflection because I never know how misguided I am until I truly have had time to calm down and see everything for what it was. I like to think I'm good at seeing things impartially, but only at this stage can you truly separate yourself from whatever happened.”

On the track “Close To You” produced by David Schaeman (Emeline), Orlando captures a sublime longing for a past partner. Utilizing electric guitar runs and celestial cymbals, Orlando’s ethereal vocals float above the lush instrumentals, capturing his earnest desire to go back in time. Orlando’s lyricism delivers an emotional gut punch as he sings, “However many miles / however long it takes to find my way back home to you / I know it’s been a while / but any time I’ve found someone they don’t come close to you.”

“Thinking Of Me” produced by Peter Fenn (Metro Boomin, Valley), the music pairs gentle acoustic guitars with bass as Orlando ponders about his past love’s new life now that the relationship has ended. In his honest reflection to love lost, Orlando exhibits a wisdom beyond his years as he admits that while the relationship was not meant to last, he still wishes them well. Orlando’s candid affection is evident as he sings, “I hope you’re living your dream / and this life has become what you thought it would be /But now and then I hope /you’re thinking of me.”

The Ride tells the story of love, hate, confusion, and hope presented in three parts. Orlando unveils raw emotions through lyrics about a first love, and the journey he's experienced along the way. Crafting this body of work was a cathartic experience for him while processing these significant life moments shared by his generation. Each part delves into two contracting perspectives from blissful and confident to sad and low moments, showcasing all their infinite complexities.

Orlando wrapped the North American leg and Asia dates of his “The Ride Tour” last month and recently announced his European run of dates. Tickets and full list of tour dates can be found here. Stay tuned for much more from Johnny Orlando by signing up to his mailing list here.

Johnny Orlando - The Ride: Part 3
Johnny Orlando - The Ride: Part 2
Johnny Orlando - The Ride: Part 1