San Francisco-based artist Michellar returns with Game of Love, a collaboration with Rad Datsun that blends nostalgia with modern pop sensibilities. The single, released on November 21, 2025, captures the complexity of love through playful storytelling and layered production, establishing Michellar as a distinctive voice in contemporary songwriting.
The track was born from a meeting at a songwriting retreat in Southern California, where Michellar and Brad Johnson, known professionally as Rad Datsun, connected over shared musical influences and a mutual passion for narrative-driven songs. Fleetwood Mac emerged as a frequent reference point, inspiring the duo to combine classic melodic structures with a fresh, contemporary feel. The result is a song that feels at once familiar and strikingly new.
Recording took place across San Francisco and Minneapolis, reflecting the duo’s geographical distance. Demos from both locations were sent to Romanian producer Marius Alexandru, whose polished production elevated the track to a cohesive, rich soundscape. The process brought a sense of depth to the single, capturing the tension and harmony inherent in a song about love’s unpredictability. Each layer, from Michellar’s intimate vocals to Rad Datsun’s melodic contributions, reinforces the song’s narrative of passion, playfulness, and emotional nuance.
For Michellar, Game of Love is part of a larger artistic resurgence. Although they began songwriting at fifteen, Michellar stepped away from music for forty years before reigniting their craft following recognition at the deYoung Museum Open Call Exhibition in 2023. Since that turning point, they have released twenty-two singles in nine months, demonstrating both a prolific output and a renewed confidence in their artistic voice.
Game of Love stands out not just as a collaboration but as a celebration of connection in music. The synergy between Michellar and Rad Datsun feels effortless, reflecting the joy of shared creativity. The track’s intricate melodies and emotive lyrics invite listeners into an intimate exploration of love, where vulnerability and playfulness coexist.
As the single circulates across streaming platforms, it positions Michellar as an artist capable of merging classic influences with modern sensibilities. Game of Love is more than a song; it is a statement of artistic revival and a reminder of the power of collaboration in bringing stories of the heart to life.
Featured Image: Artist Supplied
