Rapper Tyler Linkman opens his year with a groovy summertime funk single called “Nowhere.” The Universal Music signee, managed by Johannesburg-based [STAY LOW], wants his new single to represent his artistic evolution. Linkman’s birth year and Earth, Wind, and Fire’s induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame are no coincidence. Moreover, the new single ages like an ode to the band’s celebrated influence on 80’s disco and funk.
The Johannesburg-born and raised hip-hop artist inked a deal with Universal Music Group shortly after the career-defining release of his Playing For Keeps EP. Since then, Linkman has released the acclaimed Garden Flavours EP in 2022. Surprisingly, Tyler holds his own amid guest features from gifted musicians like Marcus Harvey and [STAY LOW] label mate Mars Baby.
SA Hip-Hop Award winner for Lyricist of the Year, Priddy Ugly, gained fame from his guest verse on Linkman’s ‘Levitate.’ As Garden Flavours’ lead single, ‘Levitate,’ is an introduction to an artist who cares about mixing lyrics and flows equally to create the best vibe sonically.
“Nowhere” is an upbeat funk track and slightly pivots from Linkman’s hip-hop-heavy catalog. “‘Nowhere’ reflects my evolution as a musician and the direction I wanted to take in terms of dynamics and lyricism,” Tyler said. Working closely with producer Liam Beats and saxophonist Jordan Arts helped Linkman create a project that could sound fantastic on a live stage. “I just love the way the bass sounds on a song, especially if it’s an actual bass guitar and it’s bass-heavy,” he said about the creative process. “I was inspired to make music that can be played live because I feel like it’s important to have people consume your music differently.”
Tyler Linkman’s funk single is reminiscent of Mac Miller’s sound in his 2016 album Divine Feminine. The similarities in the cadence and flow make ‘Nowhere’ feel both novel and nostalgic. Additionally, the funk and disco-fusion take you back. Also, they make you look forward to a time of fun with friends and family. However, it also encourages you to take life a day at a time and fully cherish the present moment.
The single has an inviting “life of the party” groove. It feels like a summer’s day with a beat and vibrance that help you dance your worries away. Similarly, Tyler effortlessly matches the track’s energy with an enticing, melodic hook. His intention to honour the legendary 80s soul funk band The Jones Girls is well-received. “Nowhere” is a shining example of the depths that African talent can reach. When creativity and the artist have space to breathe, nothing is impossible.
Listen to Tyler Linkman’s new single ‘Nowhere.’ Out now on all platforms
