East London’s thriving music scene has long been a fertile ground for innovative artists, and the latest sensation to emerge is Wilza, a classically trained pianist, DJ, and producer. With his debut single “What You See,” Wilza introduces audiences to his ambitious ‘New Jack House’ project, a fresh interpretation of the New Jack Swing genre infused with modern house music elements. This track is not just a musical offering; it’s a bold statement of intent, aiming to bridge the gap between classic and contemporary dance music.
Wilza’s music is a reflection of his rich heritage and diverse musical influences. Growing up in East London, a cultural melting pot, and being of St Lucian and English descent, he was exposed to a variety of sounds from a young age. This unique background is vividly expressed in “What You See,” a track that encapsulates the essence of genres such as Soca, Dancehall, Reggae, New Jack Swing, RnB, Hip Hop, Jungle, and UK Garage.
His classical piano training provided a strong technical foundation, which he has seamlessly integrated with the rhythms and vibes of urban and Caribbean music. This eclectic mix has become a defining characteristic of his sound, allowing him to create music that is both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition.
“What You See” is not merely a debut single; it serves as the vanguard of Wilza’s ‘New Jack House’ project. This initiative is aimed at reviving and reinterpreting the New Jack Swing genre, which was a dominant force in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The project seeks to introduce the infectious grooves and rhythms of this classic genre to a new generation of house music enthusiasts.
The track itself is a high-energy, peak-time tech house anthem, characterized by dynamic vocals and a robust production. It takes inspiration from “So You Like What You See” by Samuelle, a track that found a new audience through its inclusion in the Grand Theft Auto 5 soundtrack on CSR 103.9. This choice of inspiration reflects Wilza’s knack for blending various cultural touchpoints into his music, making it resonate across different contexts.
Wilza’s goal with “What You See” is clear: to bring back the timeless appeal of a classic track and present it in a way that resonates with today’s audiences. “The aim of this release is to bring back a classic track, from a classic genre, and let house music lovers of today and tomorrow enjoy it the way it was enjoyed back in the 90s,” Wilza explains. The track’s vibrant energy and nostalgic elements are crafted to secure a permanent spot on dance floors around the world.
Wilza’s journey in music started early, with classical piano training that honed his technical skills and instilled a deep appreciation for musical structure and composition. This classical background, combined with his exposure to a wide range of Caribbean and urban genres, has shaped his distinctive sound. As a DJ and producer, Wilza has a knack for creating tracks that are not only technically impressive but also deeply engaging and accessible.
His debut single, “What You See,” serves as a powerful introduction to his artistic vision. The track is a celebration of the rich tapestry of sounds that have influenced him throughout his life, from the syncopated beats of New Jack Swing to the driving rhythms of modern house music. It’s a testament to his ability to weave together diverse musical elements into a cohesive and compelling whole.
With “What You See,” Wilza is poised to make a significant impact on the house music scene. The single not only showcases his technical prowess and creative vision but also sets the stage for the broader ‘New Jack House’ project. This project promises to push the boundaries of contemporary house music while paying homage to the classic sounds that have inspired it.
Wilza’s unique blend of classical training, diverse cultural influences, and innovative production techniques positions him as a promising new voice in the music industry. As he continues to explore and expand his musical horizons, audiences can look forward to a series of exciting releases that bridge the past and the future of dance music.
In “What You See,” Wilza offers more than just a song; he provides a fresh perspective on the potential of house music, inviting listeners to dance, reminisce, and embrace the timeless joy of music. As he carves out his place in the industry, Wilza is set to become a prominent figure, redefining the landscape of contemporary dance music with his unique and compelling sound.