From Fortnite fame to blossoming pop stardom, d4vd’s talents are now fully taking shape.
Stringing together a slew of singles in two years’ time, the 17-year-old’s methodical emergence from the pandemic’s time warp is the epitome of a new wave origin story — gearing up for his long-awaited debut project feeling “WORTHLESS” on his latest single (March 10).
It’s evident that d4vd has a knack for melody, found within his transcending vocals that are truly from another era. If Leon Bridges made dream-pop R&B, d4vd is its prodigal son — melding indie-rock undertones with a defiantly infectious bass line on “WORTHLESS.” Beachy guitars and slow-moving percussion that litter his discography contrast the the upbeat allure of “WORTHLESS,” where d4vd proves his vocal abilities are inimitable once more.
“Cause everytime the sun comes up, I start feeling worthless / it’s easier said than done, I’m trying to find my purpose,” he croons into the abyss, hitting an ear-worming high note that embeds itself into your memory. Feeling trapped and trying to “escape this town,” d4vd’s ability to make you feel what he feels is virtually unattainable for an artist his age. Yet, d4vd is paving his way as the internet era’s next big superstar by not only engaging with his audiences, but allowing them to peek into his process.
One year ago, the Houston native was writing and recording music in his sister’s closet — uploading tracks alongside clip-worthy Fortnite montages he uploaded to his YouTube channel. Amassing nearly 60,000 subscribers while feeding aspirations of a professional gaming career, d4vd soon realized that the music would take him further than his console ever would.
The alt-enigma released his breakout hit “Romantic Homicide” last summer, which peaked at No. 77 on the Billboard Hot 100. Recorded entirely on his iPhone, the track reached No. 1 on Spotify’s US Viral Chart and has earned over 40 million views on YouTube, as d4vd’s momentum ahead of his debut LP has reached a fever pitch — even scoring a link-up with SOS superstar SZA.
Boasting 31 million Spotify monthly listeners and a die-hard fan base that’s been with him since his Fortnite days, tracks like “Here With Me,” “You And I,” “Never Again” and his more recent “Placebo Effect” all paint a portrait of longevity, uniqueness and undeniable star power for the young phenom.
If one thing’s for certain, d4vd is far from “WORTHLESS” in today’s sonic landscape. Staying ahead of the curve while touting a nostalgic, forward-thinking allure, it’s hard to believe the pop sensation is only 17.
Keep tabs on d4vd. His future is brighter than most.
Listen to “Worthless” below!
