Artist Discovery Series: SKILAH

I was exploring Instagram reels the other day when I stumbled upon a video of a DJ dancing along to a techno song, perfectly lip-synching the scream before the drop and raging afterward. This was my introduction to Los Angeles based producer SKILAH. Her Apple Music discography is made up of only six songs, while her SOUNDCLOUD is packed to the brim with mixes, edits, and releases. Her bubbly, energetic personality and hard-hitting tracks have garnered cosigns from notable artists like Its Murph, as well as playing an opening slot for Kaskade.

“Off My High” was the first SKILAH song that I looked into. It is an upbeat tech-house wonderland with rolling grooves and memorable, sputtering basslines. Intergalactic transmissions radiate out from the bass groove on top of echoing vocals and blasting layers of drums. The first drop effortlessly weaves in and out of the spongey bass and drums, creating a finger wagging beat perfect for shuffling. A short verse/hook separates the two drops:

“You don’t know me, you can’t read my mind. Too close for me, why you getting so fine? You know what, you’re just a waste of time. You know what, can’t knock me off my high.”

Sweeping transitions and rapid drums lead into the next drop. This drop is much louder and more in your face than the first. The weaving vibes intensify and crank out twice as much bass in half the time. Ending the track on a high note and creating a truly memorable listening experience.

“All I Wanna Do” is next up. This track capitalizes on SKILAH’s addicting grooves, while leaning more into the House side of things. Tropical notes, digital cowbell, and a bumping bass groove rage under the perfectly matched vocals. The lyrics, vocals, and beat create the perfect environment for a dance floor encounter with a new flame. Bright synthesizers clash with the dark, moody basslines to create a unique sense of balance, while also spacing out the drop. A barrage of bass and synths smacks us in the face as we are launched into the second drop. This drop keeps to the tropical notes and swagger filled baseline, while adding in a humorous sample for good measure.

“Uhh SKILAH. Not gonna lie.. The new track is filth. I have to show you the filth. Its unreal. Its a BANGER!”

SKILAH is a rising star with several tracks worthy of your playlist. Her extensive line of SoundCloud mixes are sure to keep the party going, making your next gathering UNFORGETTABLE!

Connect with SKILAH: Facebook | Instagram | X | Spotify | SoundCloud