Padma’s “New City, Same Song” is a Sentimental Testament to Youth

 On October 11th, sophomore artist Padma released her third single of the year. “New City, Same Song” is a nostalgic ride through geographical and emotional landscapes.

Words By Brenne Sheehan / Graphic by Lily Greco

Every student at Syracuse can relate to the fantasy of leaving home for the first time and taking on the world unknown as we enter university with our roots dragging behind us. A bittersweet theme of new life while still attached to a hometown ex is channeled in SU artist Padma’s newest single, “New City, Same Song.”. 

Along with the release of the song on October 11th, the sophomore indie-pop artist published her first music video on the streaming platform VEVO.

“New City, Same Song” laments the timeless theme of youthful adventure, using a simple chord progression and a drum-heavy chorus. The lyrics are geographical in nature – describing a fleeting adolescence as Padma travels from LA all the way back “upstate.” It’s innately emotional and nostalgic, drawing a compelling sense of relaxing sadness.

Padma has been active since 2022 with the release of her debut EP, which featured her lovesick first track “I’m So Cool,” and the playfully sentimental “Bro.” She has developed a signature sound around her crisp, airy voice and insightful lyricism about teenage melancholy. 

The track’s music video extends the theme of youthfulness as Padma incorporates the visuals of several Syracuse attractions for college students, including flipping through the vinyl at The Sound Garden and sitting on the sands by Green Lakes State Park in Fayetteville. The nature of the video is extremely happy, showing Padma and her friends enjoying life to the fullest. Unlike her last music video “I’m So Cool,” the production of the video for “New City, Same Song” is simplistic and homemade, amplifying the authenticity that Padma’s music emulates.

The thrill of passing time and making the most of it is playfully expressed with Padma’s clever lyricism that could resonate with an entire generation.