With “Game of Love,” Michellar steps confidently into a new chapter of her artistic evolution, offering a track that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. Featuring Rad Datsun, the single captures the unpredictable, often playful nature of love through a sound that blends warm storytelling, rich melodies and a chemistry that is impossible to ignore. It’s a standout moment for Michellar, an artist who has rapidly developed a strong voice after reigniting her songwriting passion following a 40-year hiatus.
The origin of “Game of Love” is as charming as the track itself. Michellar (Michelle Bond) and Rad Datsun (Brad Johnson) met during a songwriting retreat in the San Bernardino mountains. What began as a collaborative exercise quickly turned into something more meaningful — a shared creative spark that shaped the lyrics, melody and emotional core of the song. Drawing inspiration from Fleetwood Mac, the pair channel the kind of effortless musical dialogue that defines iconic duos, transforming their retreat encounter into a fully realized narrative about the different ways people turn love into a game.
Production-wise, “Game of Love” is a global collaboration that surprisingly enhances the emotional weight of the track. Initial demos were recorded separately in San Francisco and Minneapolis, reflecting the physical distance between the writers. Those recordings were then sent to Romanian producer Marius Alexandru, who elevated the arrangement with a polished yet heartfelt finish. What could have felt disjointed instead becomes a seamless fusion of perspectives, textures and ideas — a testament to the care and intention behind the process.
Michellar’s vocals shine with vulnerability and clarity, guiding the listener through a story that balances affection, unpredictability and emotional tension. Rad Datsun’s contribution adds its own flavor, complementing her tone while bringing contrast to the narrative. Together, they create an interplay that feels both intimate and theatrical — the perfect soundtrack to the push-and-pull romance the song explores.
Part of what makes “Game of Love” compelling is Michellar’s renewed sense of purpose as an artist. After being accepted into the deYoung Museum Open Call Exhibition in 2023, her creativity surged, leading to an astonishing 22 single releases in nine months. This new track reflects that momentum: confident yet curious, polished but heartfelt. It’s also one of her earliest true collaborations, an experience she describes as refreshing and creatively aligned — and that shared energy is evident in every detail of the song.
While neither artist has upcoming performances planned, the single stands firmly on its own, showcasing not only their individual talents but also the strength of their partnership. The careful attention to storytelling, the thought behind each lyric, and the joy of collaboration all come through clearly.
“Game of Love” is more than a single — it’s a celebration of connection, creativity and the fun unpredictability of romance. It signals that Michellar, after decades away from the craft, is not just returning to songwriting but flourishing within it. With this release, she demonstrates a strong artistic identity, a willingness to explore new territory and a growing mastery over her sound.
Connect with MICHELLAR on