Kevin Rose reminds us that everything we cherish in this life is Only Borrowed on his soulful, supple and sophisticated debut EP — showcasing today on Tinnitist.
A moving and ambitious six-track meditation on the impermanence of love, identity, and the things we hold most dear, the Washington, D.C. singer-songwriter’s release seamlessly blends vintage and contemporary pop, soul and dance influences into a sonic signature all its own. Filled with impeccable songcraft, rich melodies and stylish instrumentation and production — all graced with Rose’s lightly sanded, sweetly soaring vocals and introspective, revealing lyrics — the passionate project traces the intimate arc of a relationship, from the rush of first love to the quiet ache of goodbye.
At a granular level, Only Borrowed tells the story of a romance’s rise and fall. But zoomed out, the EP offers something broader and more profound: A reflection on the transient nature of life itself. Whether it’s love, time, youth, or connection — nothing we have is ever truly ours to keep. “I called it Only Borrowed because that’s what this life feels like sometimes,” says Rose. “We don’t get to hold on to anything forever — not even the things that shape us the most.”
The project features the breakout single How Many Times, accompanied by a bold, queer-themed video directed by Joy Jewell at Amplify Creative Studios. Featuring actor Rob MontanaXX, the video explores the emotional toll of intimacy without trust. Other standout tracks include the synth-fuelled dance-pop Fire and the piano-driven Got On A Plane, each contributing to the EP’s emotional momentum and narrative sweep.
Rose has performed at prestigious D.C.-area venues including Blues Alley, The Kennedy Center and Jammin’ Java, earning a reputation for his powerful voice and honest storytelling. With Only Borrowed, he combines those qualities and more into a remarkable debut that exceeds expectations and marks him as an artist with massive potential.
Listen to Only Borrwed below, watch the video for How Many Times above, and keep up with Kevin Rose on his website, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook.
