Dublin-based artist Daniel Nwambu is back with his latest single, Older, released on October 21, 2024. After a three-year hiatus from performing, this soulful track marks a return to the spotlight for the rising talent, offering a glimpse into the next phase of his musical journey. As both the writer and producer of the track, Daniel weaves together complex emotional themes with unique production techniques, creating a captivating experience for listeners.
At the heart of Older is Daniel Nwambu’s personal exploration of communication and relationships. The song reflects on his own experiences of wanting more from someone while seeking mutual respect—an emotional tug-of-war that many will find relatable. The track encapsulates the frustration of poor communication in relationships, particularly when desires and expectations clash. Daniel wanted to place this emotional complexity in a dance context, blending deep feelings with a rhythm that moves the body, creating a juxtaposition between the subject matter and the musical energy.
In his own words, Daniel explains the inspiration behind Older: “I’ve had certain situations where communication was a heavily lacking factor in the cultivation of a relationship, and wanting more from someone whilst also wanting them to respect and appreciate how you move and live. I wanted to take this scenario and put it in a dance context.”
What makes Older truly stand out is Daniel’s innovative production techniques. The entire track was recorded in his college bedroom, using Cakewalk DAW, a Focusrite interface, and a Rode NT1-A microphone. Despite these modest tools, Daniel achieves a highly polished sound that is both intricate and textured. His production style on Older draws from electronic influences, notably artists like Kaytranada, whose track All Along played a role in shaping the sound.
Daniel took a hands-on approach to the song’s creation, utilizing chopped vocals and effects to emphasize key moments in the track. This technique adds layers of depth and meaning, transforming the song into a multidimensional experience. The vocal processing gives Older its signature sound, where fragmented pieces of his voice are strategically placed throughout, creating an almost haunting effect that mirrors the complexities of relationships.
“I recorded this using a hybrid of different production techniques to emphasize meaning, such as using effects on certain phrases. This song heavily uses my own chopped vocals spread all over the place,” Daniel shares. The use of these experimental techniques speaks to his desire to push boundaries and make music that is not only sonically engaging but also emotionally resonant.
Older also showcases Daniel’s diverse influences. He credits the smooth, soulful vocal style of Brandy, particularly from her Full Moon album, as a significant inspiration for the vocal delivery on the track. This blend of soulful vocals with electronic and experimental production creates a sound that is both fresh and familiar. The mix of these influences shows Daniel’s ability to draw from various genres and styles while still crafting something uniquely his own.
Daniel’s approach to making music is grounded in his desire to create for himself first and foremost. “Make music for your ears—if your ears get bored, switch up what they’re listening to,” he says. This philosophy shines through in Older, where he balances personal satisfaction with creating something that resonates with a wider audience.
Older is more than just a single—it’s a reintroduction to an artist who is ready to make his mark on the music world. After a three-year break from live performances, Daniel is gearing up for a return to the stage, with plans to perform at various venues next year. The release of Older sets the stage for what’s to come, offering listeners a preview of the growth and evolution he has undergone during his time away.
For Daniel, Older is also a testament to his passion for storytelling. He describes it as a light yet meaningful entry into his growing discography, hinting at the potential for even more layered and complex music in the future. His ability to translate personal experiences into universal themes, combined with his technical prowess in production, positions him as a rising artist to watch.
As Daniel looks to the future, his confidence in his music shines through. “You will know my name next year,” he boldly states, hinting at his ambition and dedication to his craft.
With Older, Daniel Nwambu offers a glimpse into the next chapter of his musical journey. The single masterfully combines personal introspection with cutting-edge production, creating a track that is both emotionally raw and musically captivating. As Daniel prepares for a return to the stage and gears up for future releases, Older serves as a powerful reminder of his talent and potential.
For fans of innovative, soulful music with a modern twist, Daniel Nwambu is an artist to keep on your radar. Older is now available on all major streaming platforms, and with more performances and releases on the horizon, this is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting career.
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