London-based producer Wilza makes an electrifying debut on my platform with his latest track, ‘U Know It Ain’t Cool,’ a masterful reimagining of Bobby Brown’s iconic 1988 hit ‘Don’t Be Cruel.’ Known for blending elements of house, techno, and RnB, Wilza breathes new life into a classic that defined the New Jack Swing era. This release, part of his New Jack House project, hit the airwaves on August 30, 2024, and is already proving to be a certified dancefloor shaker.
Wilza’s ability to take such a beloved track and rework it into a modern-day Tech House anthem is nothing short of genius. He stays true to the essence of Bobby Brown’s original while crafting a familiar and innovative new sound. For those who grew up with ‘Don’t Be Cruel,’ the nostalgia hits hard, but for the new generation, this is their chance to discover a timeless groove in a fresh, high-energy package.
The theme of ‘U Know It Ain’t Cool’ revolves around the cool, confident swagger that defined Brown’s original track. Wilza, however, injects it with a pulsating energy that belongs squarely on today’s dance floors. The driving basslines, crisp percussion, and tech-infused melodies make it impossible to sit still. I can almost visualize the crowds—whether at a warehouse rave or a swanky club—breaking into the running man. It’s a track that not only bridges generations but also genres, pushing the boundaries of Tech House by incorporating RnB and New Jack Swing influences.
As a self-professed fan of Bobby Brown’s sophomore album, ‘Don’t Be Cruel,’ it’s clear Wilza approached this project with reverence and creativity. The original track holds legendary status, and in paying homage, Wilza has done it justice while ensuring that it fits right into the 2024 club scene. If Bobby Brown himself were to hear this rework, I imagine he’d feel proud and intrigued by how his classic has evolved. Wilza captures the rebellious spirit of ‘Don’t Be Cruel,’ but in a way that speaks to a new generation of music lovers, proving that great music never dies; it just gets remixed.
The production quality on this track is pristine, with every element—from the deep, rolling bass to the shimmering hi-hats—perfectly placed to create a dynamic and infectious sound. Wilza’s talent as a producer shines through in his ability to balance the driving force of Tech House with the swagger and groove of RnB. The synth lines are punchy yet melodic, the kick drum hits hard without overwhelming the mix, and the track’s overall vibe is nostalgic and futuristic.
The instrumentation, especially the bassline, is thick and bouncy, carrying that undeniable groove from start to finish. Wilza also sneaks in subtle nods to the original production, like snare hits reminiscent of New Jack Swing’s signature rhythms, but with a cleaner, more polished sound suited to today’s dance music standards.
As Wilza makes his debut on my platform, I’m thrilled to introduce this London-based talent to all of you. With his unique ability to blend past and present, he is not only honoring the legends who came before him but also carving out a space for himself in the electronic music scene. His New Jack House project is something special, and ‘U Know It Ain’t Cool’ is just the beginning of what I’m sure will be a long line of hits. Welcome aboard, Wilza. You’ve brought a breath of fresh air to my platform, and I can’t wait to see how you continue to ignite dance floors around the world.
Listen to “U Know It Ain’t Cool” on Spotify
Follow Wilza here for more information.
