Toronto-based synth-pop artist Karisa released her latest single “Paper Hearts,” sharing a story of the honest high and low points in love and the struggles that come with it.
The track combines Karisa’s signature 80s synth sound with an arrangement of string instrumentals to evoke an influx of emotions among her listeners. The singer paints a visual with her lyrics of a passionate love entangled in complexities, that is pulling and pushing her in different directions. On one end, she feels deep heartache. Yet, she can’t ignore the intense desire for this person and relationship, leading her heart astray. “Paper Hearts” is a story that many relate to. A poem dedicated to turbulent love, this narrative is set against a backdrop of sonic romance between violins and modern alt-pop.
“I wanted to create a story around a love that is broken. The concept of a paper heart symbolizes how flimsy and thin a love can be, and how easily it could be torn or burned— just like a heart made of paper. [This song is] much like my other work, only this time it is also layered with orchestral instruments such as violins. At the end of the song, the listeners get a chance to hear the orchestra in its solitude.” – Karisa
Karisa first began to pursue music in grade school, where she was part of the choir and began learning to play the guitar. Releasing her debut EP in 2020, Karisa has come very far in her musical career within the span of just 4 years. Her most recent EP, titled Endless Summer, was released in 2024. Karisa has built a strong creative brand for herself, one based on retro imagery and a “blonde bombshell” persona, akin to artists such as Avril Lavigne, New Order, and ABBA. Despite struggling with depression and anxiety, Karisa fights pain with creativity, as seen in her songwriting and paintings. She serves as a true role model for others who might be dealing with similar challenges. Karisa has received recognition from notable outlets such as GlamGlare, GRRRL Music, and Ones to Watch, as a result of her last single “Sin City.” “Paper Hearts” is now available to stream worldwide on all digital platforms. Follow Karisa on Instagram @karisamusic and TikTok @karisamusicofficial to be immersed in her journey.