We Speak Indie Artist
DZE LIKE RZA Drops The Phenomenal “First Time”
Phoenix’s own DZE LIKE RZA has just unveiled his latest single, “First Time”, and it’s a masterclass in blending old-school hip-hop vibes with fresh, personal storytelling. This track is a trip down memory lane for anyone who grew up on the gritty, raw sounds of the ‘90s East Coast rap scene. If you’re a fan of ODB’s wild charisma or DMX’s raw intensity, “First Time” will hit you right in the feels.
Let’s talk about that beat first. It’s like someone took a classic Timbaland track and infused it with a dose of 2024 swagger. Heavy piano keys set the mood, creating a vibe that’s both nostalgic and undeniably modern. The tempo is just right, making it impossible not to nod your head along. This isn’t just background music; it demands your attention from the first note.
DZE LIKE RZA’s storytelling on “First Time” is top-notch. He takes us back to his younger days, sharing a story about crushing on an older woman who didn’t quite see him the same way. It’s a tale as old as time, but DZE injects it with a fresh perspective and a dose of his own experience. His lyrics are raw and honest, capturing that mix of hope and frustration we’ve all felt at some point. Lines like “For her I feel like I would die in the ring” are delivered with such conviction you can’t help but feel the intensity of his emotions.
What really stands out is how DZE manages to balance introspection with an upbeat, infectious energy. This isn’t a melancholic look back at unrequited love; it’s a celebration of the lessons learned and the growth that comes with them. The track’s energy is infectious, making it perfect for both deep listening sessions and blasting at a party.
DZE LIKE RZA has a voice that’s both gritty and compelling. There’s a rawness to his delivery that’s reminiscent of the greats, yet he maintains a unique style that sets him apart. You can hear the influence of the East Coast legends, but DZE is very much his own artist. His ability to weave personal stories into his music while keeping the listener engaged is a testament to his talent and potential.
DZE LIKE RZA is here to remind us of the power of storytelling in hip-hop, and he does so with a track that’s as catchy as it is meaningful. If this is a taste of what’s to come, then hip-hop fans have a lot to look forward to. In a world where hip-hop often feels saturated with the same old themes, “First Time” is a breath of fresh air. DZE LIKE RZA brings something new to the table while paying homage to the genre’s roots. Whether you’re a longtime hip-hop head or just looking for something real and relatable, give “First Time” a spin. DZE LIKE RZA is definitely an artist to keep on your radar.
We Speak Indie Artist
Feelgood Frequencies: Why CR Srikanth’s “Dancing in the Dark – VS Pop™” Is The Sonic Hug You Didn’t Know You Needed
If you’ve been looking for a track that feels like a warm, nostalgic hug wrapped in shimmering synths, CR Srikanth’s new single “Dancing in the Dark – VS Pop™” might be exactly what you need. It offers a beautiful balance of emotional depth and danceable energy, pulling you out of your head and into a place where you can just breathe, feel, and move. In a world that often feels overwhelming, this track delivers a sense of calm and release.
Srikanth, a US-based Indian composer and sonic storyteller, has carved out a unique musical space with his self-created genre, VS Pop™ (Very Smooth Pop). Drawing from vintage 1980s synthpop, ambient soundscapes, and cinematic orchestral touches, he’s crafted a style that feels both familiar and forward-thinking. “Dancing in the Dark” continues that evolution. It is at once intimate and expansive, polished yet deeply human.
The track features vocals from Junior Paez, whose delivery adds emotional texture to the lyrics. There’s a quiet honesty in lines like “Don’t you think you’re losing your mind again?” and “Hold on, I’ll take you a little higher tonight.” These words speak to the chaos we often feel inside, but instead of staying stuck there, the song encourages movement, connection, and hope. It is music that acknowledges the darkness but chooses to dance through it anyway.
The production is rich with shimmering arpeggiators, retro synth bass, and crisp electronic drums. It brings together nostalgia and futurism in a way that feels effortless. Imagine flickering neon lights, soft motion blur, and the kind of energy that makes you want to close your eyes and sway. It is cinematic but never overwhelming. Every layer serves the emotion at the heart of the track.
What makes “Dancing in the Dark” so appealing is how well it adapts to your mood. Whether you’re heading out for a solo night drive, setting the vibe for a weekend gathering, or simply lying on your bed in need of a reset, this song fits the moment. It never pushes too hard, but it always lands exactly where it needs to. There is something comforting about how sure of itself it feels.
CR Srikanth is not just making music for the sake of it. He is building emotional landscapes for listeners to get lost in and to find themselves again. With “Dancing in the Dark – VS Pop™,” he offers more than just a catchy tune. He gives us space to reflect, to feel seen, and to find joy in the act of simply moving forward. So press play, turn it up, and let yourself be lifted. This one’s for the heart, the soul, and the feet.
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