Zhali's blazing new single, "DAMN RIGHT"

Hip-hop is comprised of various sounds and fervor. With his recent single, “DAMN RIGHT,” Zhali further proves that.

Born in Tehran, Iran, before moving to Toronto, Zhali is an absorbing hip-hop artist. Since his debut single, “Enough” featuring Sbwitdada$h, Zhali has applied melodious elements to hip-hop music. While his songs vary in their energy and ferocity, they often have pleasant harmonies, vocal effects, and poignant atmospheres. The way Zhali’s songs are crafted and his vocal delivery makes his music memorable.

Lulling listeners into the song are somber strings and soft, foggy background vocals. Once Zhali enters the scene, the gripping hip-hop production kicks in. While the song isn’t aggressively paced, it’s undoubtedly addicting, thanks to the producer, Bavaro Beatz.

While “DAMN RIGHT” is a bold title, the background vocals, and the lingering string melodies floating throughout the track, create a melancholy atmosphere. In addition, the fading instrumentals end the song in a natural, relaxing manner.  

Beautifully complementing both the dark hip-hop beats and the serene atmosphere is Zhali’s voice. The softness and sincerity Zhali places into the lyrics are particularly meaningful. Although there are clear effects added to his vocals, it doesn’t drown his pleasant tone.

Within lyrics including, “I’ma show you this time. I was doing wrong, now I’m doing right,” “DAMN RIGHT” expresses a desire to be in a relationship with someone. Clearly, the narrator messed up in the past, but they are committed to doing better and desire another chance.

Considering the production and Zhali’s earnest, yet effortless, delivery, “DAMN RIGHT” is impressive. Not only is this song accessible, and easy to appreciate, it shows Zhali’s progression as an artist and how he continues to add his own specific style to hip-hop.