We Speak Music

Chauhan ‘Age 17’: A Raw Anthem of Perseverance and Self-Belief

Published

4 weeks ago

October 23, 2024

Chauhan’s latest single, “Age 17,” is a heartfelt tribute to his early experiences as an emerging artist, offering listeners a raw and authentic glimpse into his journey of self-discovery and resilience. The song captures a deeply personal moment in his life, marked by both the struggle for acceptance and the triumph of self-belief, as Vaibhav Chauhan reflects on the pivotal year when he found the courage to share his music with the world.

At its core, “Age 17” is a story of perseverance. Chauhan delves into the tension between the harsh realities of life and his unwavering determination to pursue his passion, even when those around him doubted his potential. The line, “The hard reality of life is that your own beloved people support you when you finally make it; no one wants to support you while you’re struggling,” powerfully encapsulates the emotional weight of his journey. It’s a sentiment that resonates with anyone who has faced skepticism from their closest circles while chasing their dreams.

Musically, the track leans into a minimalist production, reflecting Chauhan’s DIY approach. With only basic recording equipment and a phone, he channels the spirit of underground rap and hip-hop, where storytelling and lyricism are king. Yet, despite the limited resources, Chauhan’s passion and ambition shine through, creating an intimate yet impactful listening experience.

The chorus stands out as an anthem of self-confidence and ambition. Chauhan’s assertion that even at 17, he had a “hustler’s mindset” is a powerful statement, reinforcing his belief that one day, his words and music will leave a lasting mark. The repetition of these themes of struggle and eventual triumph adds layers to the track, drawing listeners into his personal journey.

In terms of influences, Chauhan takes inspiration from Punjabi giants like Sidhu Moosewala, not only in sound but in ethos. Much like Moosewala, Chauhan uses his music to pay homage to his roots while aiming for global recognition. His pride in his heritage is palpable, and the track becomes more than just a reflection of his personal journey; it’s a declaration of intent to represent his community on an international stage.

“Age 17” is an authentic and compelling offering from Chauhan, blending emotional vulnerability with a strong sense of purpose. It’s a testament to his growth as an artist and his refusal to let doubt or limited resources stand in his way. For fans of rap and hip-hop, Vaibhav Chauhan’s story and his music will likely resonate deeply—an inspiring reminder of the power of persistence.

We Speak Music

Jean-Loup Pinson ‘A Moment of Deathlessness’: A Visionary Exploration of Mortality and Desire

Published

34 mins ago

November 21, 2024

Philomena Marie

Jean-Loup Pinson’s, A Moment of Deathlessness, is a sonic revelation that brings the poetry of Emily Dickinson into the modern world with grace, complexity, and unflinching creativity. Known for his diverse work in film, television, and theatre, Pinson’s latest EP showcases his skill as a composer who is unafraid to take risks. With contributions from the revered Carice Singers and London’s hip-hop poets Armanious and Tanaka Fuego, Pinson weaves a soundscape that feels like a haunting meditation on life’s biggest questions.

The collaboration with The Carice Singers anchors the EP in a timeless aesthetic, their choral harmonies lending a ghostly beauty to Dickinson’s poetry. In these moments, the listener is transported to a world of introspective calm, where Dickinson’s words are given space to resonate. Pinson’s arrangements are delicate yet impactful, underscoring the nuances in Dickinson’s exploration of existential themes with layered instrumentation that leaves room for reflection.

Armanious and Tanaka Fuego bring a visceral immediacy to the project, drawing connections between Dickinson’s words and the lived experiences of today’s youth. Their performances are powerful yet understated, infusing the poetry with a streetwise perspective that broadens the EP’s appeal. Through their voices, themes like death and desire feel personal and urgent, transforming Dickinson’s nineteenth-century verses into something raw and universal. The juxtaposition of classical and modern elements invites listeners to think about how timeless these questions really are.

Pinson’s composition style is intricate and narrative-driven, each track unfolding like a story within itself. His film and theatre background shines here, particularly in his ability to balance tension and release. The electronic beats woven through the tracks bring a modern pulse to the project without overwhelming its emotional depth, creating a sound that is as moving as it is original.

A Moment of Deathlessness, is a standout in the contemporary music scene, proving Pinson’s remarkable versatility and vision as a composer. By bridging classical and urban sounds, he highlights the universality of Dickinson’s themes while offering something truly new. This EP, now available on streaming platforms, is a must-listen for anyone curious about the intersection of classical poetry and modern sound.