With his new single “Imaginary Lover,” Swedish artist San Sebastian steps boldly into a fresh era of his sound — one that is more personal, modern, and emotionally revealing than anything he has released before. It’s a confident shift, and one that proves the 19-year-old former Swedish Idol finalist is no longer simply the charismatic voice viewers fell for on television, but a fully emerging artist shaping his own musical identity.
San Sebastian, born Sebastian Rydgren, quickly became a fan favourite during Idol 2022 thanks to his powerful vocals and undeniable stage presence, ultimately finishing in fourth place. But what followed turned out to be far more important than the competition itself. He became the first contestant ever to be personally picked up by Anders Bagge — one of Sweden’s most globally recognised songwriters and producers, known for his work with icons like Madonna, Robyn, and Celine Dion. Bagge’s belief in him connected Sebastian with new collaborators and opened a door toward developing his own signature sound.
That sound begins to fully bloom on “Imaginary Lover.” From the first moments, the track feels sleek, modern, and emotionally tuned-in, blending contemporary pop production with a smooth, vulnerable vocal performance. There’s a sense of maturity in both the songwriting and delivery; Sebastian leans into his ability to communicate longing, introspection, and desire without ever oversinging. The restraint adds to the intimacy of the track, making it feel like a private confession disguised as a pop single.
Lyrically, “Imaginary Lover” plays with the tension between fantasy and reality — the longing for connection, the stories we tell ourselves, and the quiet ache of wanting something that may never materialise. It’s relatable and refreshingly honest, especially for an artist still so early in his career. Rather than chasing familiar pop tropes, Sebastian digs into a softer, more contemplative tone, letting his emotions guide the production rather than the other way around.
Sonically, the track leans into sleek Scandinavian pop aesthetics: clean lines, atmospheric edges, and a polished sense of space that allows his voice to sit front and centre. The chorus is understated yet catchy, sticking in your head not for its loudness, but for its emotional imprint. It’s pop, yes — but pop with nuance.
What stands out most is how authentically San Sebastian this feels. There’s confidence, but also vulnerability. Ambition, but also sensitivity. It’s clear he is beginning to carve out a lane that combines strong vocals with a more intimate narrative style, setting the stage for the upcoming EP from which “Imaginary Lover” is the first offering.
As he continues developing his sound, Sebastian shows all the signs of an artist ready to grow beyond the expectations of reality-show fame. “Imaginary Lover” isn’t just a new single — it’s a statement of direction. A promise of a more personal, more refined version of San Sebastian. And if this track is any indication of what’s to come, the next chapter of his career may be his most exciting yet.
Follow SAN SEBASTIAN on