Capital Cities emerged as one of the most distinctive pop acts of the early 2010s, a Los Angeles-based duo known for their bright, synth-driven sound and the inescapable optimism of their breakthrough hit, "Safe and Sound." Composed of Ryan Merchant and Sebu Simonian, the pair carved out a unique space in the pop landscape by blending catchy melodies with sophisticated production and a vintage electronic flair. Their music, often characterized by its upbeat tempos and lyrical positivity, provided a refreshing counterpoint in an era of moodier pop, earning them a dedicated fanbase and significant commercial success.
The origins of Capital Cities trace back to 2008, when Ryan Merchant, a songwriter and advertising composer, was seeking a collaborator for a commercial project. He found Sebu Simonian through an online classified ad, and their immediate creative chemistry led them to form a partnership beyond the initial commission. They began writing and producing music together, initially for other artists and commercials, before deciding to launch their own musical project. Adopting the name Capital Cities, they self-released their debut single, "Safe and Sound," in 2011. The track’s infectious trumpet hook and sunny disposition caught fire online, building tremendous momentum through blogs and streaming platforms.
This grassroots success culminated in the 2013 release of their debut album, "In a Tidal Wave of Mystery." The album was anchored by the officially re-released "Safe and Sound," which became a global smash, peaking at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and achieving multi-platinum certification. The record also featured the popular follow-up single "Kangaroo Court" and a notable, shimmering cover of the The Bee Gees classic "Stayin' Alive." Their vibrant, choreography-heavy live performances, often featuring their signature "Safe and Sound" dance, became a hallmark of their act, and they toured extensively, including appearances at major festivals like Coachella.
Following their debut's success, Capital Cities maintained a lower public profile, focusing on writing and recording. They released several standalone singles, including "Vowels" and "Venus & River," which continued their tradition of lush, positive pop. In 2018, they surprise-released their second studio album, "Solarize," as a visual album on YouTube, showcasing a continued evolution of their sound. While they have not matched the colossal chart impact of "Safe and Sound," Merchant and Simonian continue to work as Capital Cities, periodically releasing new music and performing live, sustaining the vibrant, upbeat legacy they established with their defining hit.
