With a feature from Atlanta’s own spaceluvrrr, Mike Rari bridges two music scenes and delivers an emotionally charged tribute that celebrates love, legacy, and growth.
When listeners press play on “25 Lighters,” they’re not just hearing a new single — they’re stepping into Mike Rari’s world. It’s a world built on emotion, reflection, and the unmistakable pulse of Houston’s music culture. “This is a nod to Houston,” Rari shares. “I wanted to pay my respects to the OGs that paved the way in the city and show how far their inspiration and music travels — which is why the feature from spaceluvrrr was crucial. She’s crushing it out in Atlanta, and seeing the culture spread across the country is special.”
Though “25 Lighters” wasn’t sparked by one specific event, it carries the emotional weight of Rari’s own experiences. “No one specific person or situation inspired the song,” he says. “But I definitely wanted to embody emotions that I’ve faced throughout my love life. Being able to live in that world made writing effortless.”
That balance of vulnerability and confidence has become Rari’s signature. “Each new single this year has gone deeper into vulnerability,” he explains. “I’ve worked hard to write these stories and open up to the world in a way that feels natural. These songs are healing for me — I get to be my full, unapologetic self, and sharing that is freeing.”
Rari’s attention to detail is evident not just in his writing, but in his process. “Every song is different,” he says. “When we’re putting the finishing touches on a track, I can hear the pieces connect and come to life — that’s when I know it’s ready to share with the world.” He tests each mix across different speakers and environments, making sure it resonates no matter how or where you hear it.
If Rari could dream up a remix, the answer is a love letter to his city. “For any of my songs, I’d say Barry White for the artist that’s passed and Don Toliver for one that’s living,” he says. “But for this song specifically, it would be a dream to collab with DJ Candlestick on a ChopNotSlop mix to really give Houston a new anthem. What he’s done for the city and the culture is transcendent.”
“25 Lighters” continues Rari’s evolution as both an artist and a person. “Each song holds a piece of time that made me who I am today,” he reflects. “My willingness to be vulnerable in my writing is something I’m proud of because it allows me to create freely.”
At its core, “25 Lighters” is about connection — to self, to love, and to the people who find meaning in the music. “I made this song with the intention of fighting to find love and being a safe space for someone who’s been dealt a hard hand,” Rari says. “More than anything, I want to create a world where people can escape for a moment and just be.”
Looking forward, Rari sees “25 Lighters” as another powerful chapter in his ongoing story. “We’re continuing to build,” he says. “Each song gives everyone another glimpse into who I am. Collaborating with spaceluvrrr was special — she’s inspiring and talented, and I want to give her her flowers. And to everyone listening, sharing, and living in the music — thank you. You allow me to be my full self, and that’s something I’ll hold forever.”