A relative newcomer to Canada’s hip-hop scene, Ottawa’s Illin has been quickly building his reputation in 2021, hitting the main stage with his massive debut single, ‘Slidin’. A fierce track that perfectly captured his polished sound, ‘Slidin’ set the perfect platform for Illin’s sound, but it wasn’t until we heard his sophomore single that we really knew what he was capable of.
Titled ‘Lizzy’, the new single is another brilliant slice of modern hip-hop, hitting hard with a layered stream of beats and some vibrant guest spots. Drifting between modern hip-hop and smooth RnB, the single is an immersive wave of quick-stepping beats, auto-tuned harmonies, and some nuanced electronic flourishes that pull everything together. Musically, there’s so much to love about ‘Lizzy’, but the true heart of the track lies within the vocals, and together they ebb and flow perfectly throughout the song, shifting between melodic refrains and tempered bars with ease.
Offering an ensnaring wave of contemporary RnB sounds and familiar early 2000s vibes, ‘Lizzy’ is an impressive artistic leap for Illin, one that sees him expanding into more multi-layered, ultra-smooth sounds and expansive harmonies that brilliantly reflect the collaborative nature of the cut. Illin’s decision to team up with the UK’s Nat J and Florida’s Zaucy was a stroke of genius, and with every repeat listen, then chemistry seems to grow. Perfectly in sync and with no overstepping, the trio work their magic brilliantly, and together they carve out a brilliant path that few artists will be able to follow.
Available now on all major platforms, as well as on our very own RnB and hip-hop playlists, ‘Lizzy’ is arguably one of the finest contemporary RnB tracks you’ll find this year, and it announces the rise and rise of Illin with crystal clear clarity. Tune in below via Spotify and be sure to give Illin a follow so you don’t miss any of his future releases.
At just twenty-two years old, he might not be one of the most seasoned artists out there, but what Illin lacks in experience, he clearly makes up in heavy beats and vibrant hooks. His second single, and another vibrant glimpse into his upcoming project, ‘Ill’n Friends’, ‘Lizzy’ has quickly become our new obsession.
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