If you have TikTok or ears, you have most likely heard a song by someone named “Sombr.” Sombr has been in the music industry since 2021, and since entering the scene, he has been on an endless climb to success. He grew up in a musical family, with his father playing for different bands over the years as he grew up. Sombr released his first extended playlist in 2023 under the name “In Another Life,” through Warner Records. His alternative and indie sound resembles a lot of the 90s, and uses techno in different ways as necessary to the feelings of the songs. His name, Sombr, actually comes from the feelings of being somber when he was first creating music, as well as his full name being Shane Micheal Boose, which, when abbreviated, is SMB. On Aug. 22, 2025, Sombr released his debut album, “I Barely Know Her,” exploring themes of heartbreak, unrequited love, and yearning. His themes are incredibly relatable for many, while perfectly encapsulating a “somber” feeling.
Before the release of his album, he released the single, “Undressed,” which would later be his seventh track on his debut album on Mar. 21, 2025. This song became an instant success, skyrocketing his popularity on social media platforms for its theme of longing a past relationship, and the struggle to move on from someone previously so prevalent in your life. Lyrics such as “There’s nothing worse than seeing your Lover, moving on while you still suffer” further solidify a longing for not even wanting to move on, for the hope that maybe there is still something there. This song singlehandedly predicted Sombr’s success and launched a new era for his life.
One of the new songs on his album is “Dime.” This song explores themes of being in love with a friend close to you, wanting to break that barrier, and exploring what a life of more than friends would look like. This song continues to have a similar and consistent sound to the rest of his discography, with a tone of angst in his voice as well as a loud alternative sound that makes you feel like going on a late-night drive at night. This song contains lyrics like “Can I get through to you? / Can I get through to you? / Can I get through to you? / We can be more than friends, I wanna love you till the end of my life.” The repetitive nature of the song leads to a buildup that makes the chorus feel like a confession and a plea all at the same time.
Sombr has already shown massive success leading up to his album, and now, with having earned his first VMA win for “Best Alternative Artist,” there is no doubt that he has far more to show the world. He has already reached #1 on the Billboard charts for Alternative tracks, and he is about to embark on his first tour spanning across the nation.
