“BRNT (feat. The EMEFE Horns)” is a standout single by the genre-blurring trio Magic City Hippies, known for blending indie funk, pop, and soul. Released in 2019 as part of their acclaimed debut full-length album Modern Animal, “BRNT” gained instant fan-favorite status for its infectious groove, sultry vocals, and brass-powered punch thanks to a collaboration with the New York-based horn collective, The EMEFE Horns.
While “BRNT” didn’t chart on the Billboard Hot 100, it carved out a strong presence in the indie and alternative funk scenes, racking up hundreds of thousands of streams on platforms like Spotify and catching attention from music blogs like Atwood Magazine for its “sun-drenched swagger.” The track was composed by the band’s frontman Robby Hunter, with a horn arrangement co-written by members of EMEFE.
Fun fact? EMEFE includes former members of Antibalas and has performed with artists like Lupe Fiasco, Aloe Blacc, and Arcade Fire, adding a seasoned funk pedigree to this already jam-heavy anthem.
2. Magic City Hippies From Street Performer to Funk Powerhouse
Magic City Hippies started as the solo project of Robby Hunter, a street performer in Miami who gained a local following for his blend of beatboxing, looping, and smooth funk vocals. After teaming up with John Coughlin (guitar/production) and Pat Howard (drums/production), the trio rebranded as Magic City Hippies in 2015.
They dropped their first EP Hippie Castle that same year, gaining viral attention with the track “Fanfare.” Since then, they’ve built a loyal fanbase through high-energy live shows, national tours, and a steady stream of funky, feel-good releases. Modern Animal, the album that features “BRNT,” marked a creative evolution—more polished, diverse, and fearless in sonic experimentation.
Their style has been affectionately described as “Breezy Miami funk-meets-Chillwave indie rock”, drawing influences from artists like Gnarls Barkley, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Tame Impala.
3. On the Videoclip: Retro Glamor with a Cinematic Twist
The official music video for “BRNT” is a visual treat, directed by Gabriel Gimenez, a Miami-based filmmaker and painter better known in the art world as GG. The video was released on September 12, 2019, and features a neon-soaked, retro aesthetic that matches the song’s sultry, laid-back groove.
There’s a 70s noir vibe throughout, complete with velvet curtains, disco lights, and slow-motion shots of dancers losing themselves in rhythm. Choreography is minimal but hypnotic, led by dancer Nicolette B, a regular in Miami’s underground performance art scene.
Gimenez’s visual storytelling enhances the hypnotic brass lines and sensual tone of the track, making the video a natural extension of the song’s mood—seductive, mysterious, and playful.
Watch the full video on YouTube here.
4. Talk Nerdy to Me: Theory Tidbits That’ll Make Music Geeks Smile
For music theory lovers, “BRNT” offers a smooth yet complex ride:
- Key: The song is in D minor, giving it that naturally moody but funky atmosphere.
- Chord progression: It uses a ii–V–I feel across verses and bridges—uncommon in indie-pop but a staple in jazz and funk.
- Rhythmic syncopation: Drums and guitar employ syncopated off-beats and ghost notes, especially noticeable in the pre-chorus.
- Horn arrangement: The EMEFE Horns drop in with parallel harmonies and call-and-response phrasing, reminiscent of Earth, Wind & Fire or Tower of Power.
- Production tip: The slapback delay on vocals, paired with stereo-panned guitars, gives the track its wide and atmospheric feel.
It’s the kind of track that’s simple on the surface but reveals depth and technical finesse the deeper you listen.
5. More from the Artist: Funk-Pop Bliss, Nonstop
If “BRNT” is your first taste of Magic City Hippies, there’s a whole sonic buffet waiting for you.
Here are some essential listens:
- “Fanfare” – The viral hit that put them on the map. Tropical, funky, and addictive. Listen here.
- “Limestone” – A sensual, slow-burn track from Modern Animal.
- “High Beams” (ft. Nafets) – A dynamic collaboration blending hip-hop and electro-funk.
- Magic City Hippies’ at Paste Studio NYC live from The Manhattan Center – A stripped-down live performance on NPR’s beloved YouTube series.
They also maintain a lively YouTube channel with tour diaries, acoustic sessions, and studio behind-the-scenes clips.
