Rod Wave has been one of my favorite artists since high school. At times, his music could get me through some of my life’s weakest moments, such as when comfort is needed that is hard to find.
I heard he was releasing a new album titled “Last Lap,” and it did not disappoint me. It gives me real emotion, and his voice chills me. This initial track for the album was reflective, as most of his works are, and set the mood fantastically. I was ready to go along with “Last Lap” because I could tell from the beginning that it would be yet another journey through his experiences and thoughts.
One thing I like about Rod Wave is how relatable his songs are. It is like his music is a conversation between close friends because he has no problem sharing his struggles and successes. He opens up on heartbreak and life’s struggle on this album. One of the tracks talking about overcoming challenges got to me. I nodded as I reflected on my struggles. He understands concepts in my mind and turns them into a song. It is therapeutic to listen to Rod Wave. I cannot put into words how much his music speaks to me. I feel less alone in my struggles because every line reflects my experiences.
Whether I am relaxing at home or driving with the windows down, I listen to a playlist that is all about him. It is something I listen to every day. I know all his songs by heart—every beat, every line and I crank the volume up because it is beautiful, and I cannot get enough.
The most influential track on “Last Lap” must be “25.” It is incredible how much emotion Rod Wave can implement into his songs. This is one of many tracks on this album that balance heartbreaking with uplifting. That song helps me get comfortable being vulnerable no matter what happens. That’s something I have kept from high school. This album provides some of the most impressive productions. Rod Wave breathes new life into the familiar, perfectly balancing his rich vocals with the right beats. At points, instrumentation escalates to meet the energy of his performance. It feels like he tells a story with each song.
I love “Last Lap” mostly because it shows how Rod Wave has developed as a musician. Even though the sound has changed through the years, you can feel the core of him. He never compromises on that unrestrained energy that first attracted me to him. With this, at this point, the whole listening experience is elevated with the confidence in the delivery.
“Last Lap” proved that Rod Wave is one of the reasons I love artists: because of how his words connect with listeners. His music healed me, and I am thankful for everything he has done for me. As time goes on, and I keep listening to this album, I know each song will have a different meaning, just as it has every other time I listened to one of his albums. Rod Wave’s music brings people together in a world where it is easy to feel isolated. His songs have become the soundtrack of my life, and I cannot wait to see where he goes next. I will keep playing “Last Lap” on repeat loud enough for everyone to hear.
