The eclectic Whoa Dakota’s new single “Walk Right By” is an enlightened look both at the past and the future. Blending together disco with a modern R&B sound, this bop emboldens you to believe that you don’t need anyone besides yourself to reach your full potential. The lyrics are inspired by her experiences with pushy, manipulative business people in the industry who antagonize those around them. “Walk Right By” aims to empower those who listen to it to trust in themselves. The single has a classically funky bassline, infectious danceability, and nostalgic synths that sound like something out of an arcade. It’s far from sounding like an imitation of late 70’s disco music, however. There’s this compelling groovy but chill vibe in the verses that fit in well with the sound of modern R&B music, and atmospheric layers of synths that remind listeners of ambient indie-pop. Whoa Dakota’s stellar vocals are really something else. She effortlessly handles the sultry, smooth vocals in the verses, and the powerful belting in the enthralling chorus that is a perfect sonic representation of self-liberation.
It’s no surprise that this mesmerizing artist has such an innovative grasp on her music as a 2017 Tiny Desk Concert favorite and the “Best Pop Artist” in the Nashville Scene’s Best of Nashville 2018 awards. You can (and should) also check out her “Spill The Tea with Whoa Dakota” podcast featuring Lilly Hiatt, Airpark, Laura Reed, and more, and her twitch streams every Friday at 6 pm CST.
Keep up with Whoa Dakota here.
My instagram handle is @katymombourquette