RISING INDIAN-AMERICAN ARTIST KOAD RETURNS WITH SZA CO-SIGNED NEW SINGLE “SCATTERBRAIN” FT. GAYATHRI KRISHNAN
Rising Indian-American rapper, producer, and creative KOAD returns with his highly anticipated new single “scatterbrain” ft. Gayathri Krishnan, out today. Entirely self-produced, the track, featuring additional vocals from rising alternative R&B artists Phoenix James and Tora-i, weaves Carnatic-inspired melodies with jazz rap, pushing KOAD’s genre-defying sound further into a global, alternative hip-hop space that feels both innovative and deeply personal.
Already gaining early momentum, “scatterbrain” arrives with a notable co-sign from SZA, following KOAD’s viral Medium Sized Backyard performance of the track, which has surpassed 1 million views and captured the attention of artists including Kehlani, Labrinth, and Noname. The performance has since circulated across tastemaker and hip-hop curator platforms, further amplifying his rapid rise.
On “scatterbrain,” KOAD leans into a more introspective and fluid sonic palette, using layered instrumentation and dynamic flows to mirror the mental overstimulation and emotional duality suggested in the title. The result is a record that feels expansive yet intimate, anchored in technical precision while allowing space for vulnerability and experimentation.
The release follows a breakout run that has positioned KOAD at the forefront of a new wave of diasporic rap artists redefining the genre. His 2024 viral single “Deepika” earned co-signs from SZA, Isaiah Rashad, and Zane Lowe, while subsequent releases including “dirty,” “papercut$,” and “jaanu” have continued to build a distinct sonic universe blending hip-hop, Bollywood nostalgia, Memphis bounce, and global rhythms.
Momentum continues to build following KOAD’s recent headlining performance at SXSW, as well as opening for global rap star Hanumankind at The Fonda Theatre in Los Angeles, where he stood out for his commanding stage presence and connection with audiences. KOAD is currently gearing up for a performance at Gulabi Rain Music Festival, the Pacific Northwest’s first desi music festival, on April 4th in Seattle. Tickets can be purchased here.
Beyond the music, KOAD’s artistry is rooted in perspective. As a first-generation Indian-American, he uses his platform to explore themes of identity, immigration and cultural duality, bringing a nuanced and necessary voice to contemporary hip-hop. His work challenges stereotypes while creating space for more expansive, globally influenced storytelling within the genre.
With “scatterbrain,” KOAD continues to solidify himself as one of the most compelling emerging artists to watch, building toward his forthcoming project Treehouse, a body of work that further expands his imaginative and self-defined sonic world.
“scatterbrain” is available now on all DSPs.
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