Riot Games Unveils New Virtual Music Band HEARTSTEEL

Riot Games, the esteemed publisher of various popular games, continues to expand its creative endeavors into the realm of music with an exciting new announcement. Introducing HEARTSTEEL, a sensational virtual boy group inspired by the immersive world of League of Legends.

HEARTSTEEL is set to captivate audiences with its unique composition of six virtual members, each representing a distinct League of Legends champion. Adding an extra layer of authenticity and artistic flair, four talented artists have been enlisted to provide the voices for these captivating virtual personas. The renowned vocalists Baekhyun, ØZI, Tobi Lou, and Cal Scruby will infuse their exceptional talents into the characters, ensuring an unforgettable musical experience.

With this groundbreaking venture, Riot Games seamlessly merges the realms of gaming and music, offering fans an innovative and immersive entertainment experience. HEARTSTEEL promises to deliver a fusion of captivating melodies, stunning visuals, and the iconic League of Legends universe, creating a powerful synergy that will resonate with fans of both gaming and music alike.

New virtual music group HEARTSTEEL

Riot Games is embarking on an exhilarating musical journey with the introduction of HEARTSTEEL, an extraordinary virtual band that defies conventional genres and time periods, forging a “one-of-a-kind” musical identity that promises to captivate audiences. Mark your calendars for October 23rd, as HEARTSTEEL is set to unleash their highly anticipated debut single, “PARANOIA.”

HEARTSTEEL is a collective of immensely talented performers who breathe life into beloved League of Legends characters through their expressive musical prowess. Baekhyun, a distinguished member of the globally renowned K-pop group EXO, takes on the role of Ezreal, infusing the character with his magnetic stage presence. ØZI, a Taiwanese-American singer-songwriter, masterfully embodies the raw power and intensity of Sett, captivating listeners with his dynamic vocals. Tobi Lou, an exceptional artist with roots in hip-hop, R&B, and pop, brings his unique artistry to the enigmatic persona of Tobi Lou K’Sante. And let’s not forget Cal Scruby, a talented rapper hailing from Los Angeles, whose collaboration with Riot Games on the All Stars 2022 anthem “Run It” has already endeared him to League of Legends fans worldwide. Cal Scruby now adds another layer of intrigue to HEARTSTEEL as he immerses himself in the enigmatic character of Kayn.

HEARTSTEEL’s lineup further expands with the inclusion of Yone and Aphelios, esteemed figures from the League of Legends universe. While their vocal performances in the group’s songs have yet to be announced, Yone assumes the role of producer, overseeing the creative direction, while Aphelios showcases his exceptional talents as an instrumentalist and songwriter. This amalgamation of musical brilliance promises to elevate HEARTSTEEL’s sonic landscape to unprecedented heights.

Riot Games has a rich history of crafting virtual groups, and HEARTSTEEL joins the ranks of notable ensembles such as the captivating K/DA, featuring the talents of (G)I-DLE members Soyeon and Miyeon, as well as Madison Beer and Jaira Burns. Additionally, Riot Games has introduced the virtual metal band Pentakill and the trailblazing collective True Damage, showcasing their commitment to pushing creative boundaries and delivering awe-inspiring musical experiences.

With HEARTSTEEL, Riot Games showcases its dedication to bridging the realms of gaming and music, offering fans an immersive and multi-faceted entertainment experience. Prepare to be enthralled as HEARTSTEEL weaves a tapestry of enchanting melodies, mesmerizing visuals, and the iconic universe of League of Legends, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of fans worldwide.

Global Head of Music and Events, Riot Games Entertainment

Maria Egan, the Global Head of Music & Events at Riot Games Entertainment, shared her excitement and insights regarding the newly unveiled group. She acknowledged the immense popularity and innovation that Riot’s virtual artists have brought to the music scene, creating unforgettable moments for players and fans alike.

The anticipation surrounding an all-male band has been a topic of speculation among enthusiasts, and the realization of HEARTSTEEL brings this long-awaited fantasy to fruition. Egan expressed her elation at the collaborative efforts between Riot’s talented in-house creative teams and the exceptional new artists involved in shaping HEARTSTEEL. The ethos of the group embodies the concept of a musical supergroup, where the collective synergy of its members transcends their individual talents, reflecting the very essence of Riot’s community, whose unwavering dedication to the games is a testament to their shared passion.

The debut of HEARTSTEEL coincides with an exhilarating period for League of Legends in the esports realm. Currently, the highly anticipated 2023 World Championships are underway in South Korea, captivating fans worldwide. Adding to the excitement, the international event features an anthem performed by the rising K-pop group NewJeans, further emphasizing the vibrant and dynamic nature of the League of Legends community.