On Friday Rising Hawaiian Rapper and Songwriter PawPaw Rod released his vibrant new track “Shadow“. The song is a captivating fusion of Alternative and Funk sounds with immaculate production, with syrupy smooth vocals that steal the show. Rod’s eclectic sound takes inspiration from 70’s Funk yet simultaneously stays fresh by bringing in slick Indie production. Driving drums, groovy bass guitar and swirling synth lines interplay artfully to create a soundscape that calls the listener to the dancefloor. Rod’s baritone crooning feels like a match made in heaven for the track’s soundscape.

This track, with its psychedelic undertones and Stetson-toed swagger, provides the perfect setting for Rod to delve into themes of self-awareness and inner growth. As a self-proclaimed “military brat” with a background that spans the globe, Rod invites listeners on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. The song’s rich, genre-blending composition reflects his ability to transcend musical boundaries, making it a compelling piece that resonates with listeners on a deeply personal level.

In discussing the inspiration behind “Shadow,” PawPaw Rod reveals a poignant exploration of the self. He describes the shadow as one’s inner child, emphasizing the importance of embracing this part of ourselves as we grow older. “You can’t be afraid of your own shadow – you have to embrace it wholeheartedly,” he explains, capturing the song’s essence of introspection and acceptance. The music video complements this theme, merging intimate scenes from Palm Springs with electrifying footage from recent performances, including Coachella and his show at The Echo in Los Angeles. This visual journey, paired with Rod’s dynamic stage presence, underscores the profound message of “Shadow” and cements his place as a distinctive voice in contemporary music.

“Shadow” serves as the next step in what has been a meteoric rise for PawPaw Rod since his 2020 debut “HIT EM WHERE IT HURTS“. His young career has already seen him build a devoted fanbase along with accumulating over 1.3 million Spotify listeners. If you enjoy Alternative artists with fresh and eclectic sounds like Bakar, Teezo Touchdown, and Dominic Fike, PawPaw Rod is an artist should definitely check out. Go stream “Shadow” on your streaming platform of choice.