Feature: Sean Lippin Decodes “Frenemies”
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind “Frenemies” and the story it tells?
Absolutely. I wrote “Frenemies” after meeting up with a long-time friend at a music festival. When I arrived, he asked if I came with anyone else—like we were just two ships passing at the same concert. I remember thinking, “Wait… wasn’t the whole point that we were meeting up?” That moment made me reflect on how the friendship had shifted. The song became a way to process that frustration and confusion—it's a cathartic, tongue-in-cheek way of expressing what it feels like when someone you thought had your back suddenly feels distant.
Were there any memorable or standout moments during the recording sessions for “Frenemies?”
Oh, absolutely. What could be more unforgettable than shouting, “F**k yourself, you piece of sh*t,” into a mic with full-blown passion? That was a peak moment—equal parts ridiculous and therapeutic.
What impact do you hope this song will have on your audience?
I hope people hear the humor, the honesty, and the attitude behind it. It's bold, it's dramatic, and it doesn’t take itself too seriously. Ideally, someone who's been through a friendship breakup can laugh, sing and dance along, and feel just a little bit lighter by the time the two-minute mark hits—that part always brings me the most joy.
How did you get started in music, and what inspired you to become a singer-songwriter?
My mom was a big musical theater fan—she took my sister and me to Broadway shows as kids and signed us up for local productions. I loved it from the start. But it wasn’t until I picked up the guitar in high school that things really clicked. I was obsessed with pop-punk bands like Green Day and blink-182—they made songwriting feel raw and attainable. Once I started playing my own songs at open mics and all-ages clubs, I felt this amazing sense of power and connection. Life throws you curveballs, but that passion for songwriting and performing has always stayed with me.
Do you have any memorable on-stage moments or performances that stand out to you?
Definitely. Performing at the New York Songwriters Circle in 2024 was a huge moment for me. I had butterflies the whole time and couldn’t stop smiling—I just felt so grateful to be recognized for my original work and to share it with such an attentive audience. Any chance to play at The Bitter End in NYC feels like living a dream.
