River Nelson – Flying (2025)
While this might be the first time River Nelson has blasted from my headphones and wriggled into my ears – not literally, of course – the US-based rapper is an established artist on an international scale. From his 2010 album, The Rise & Fall of River Nelson, to the follow-up album in 2013, The Shape of the Sky, and his 2023 album We Should Escape, Nelson draws global critical acclaim, grows his audience, and continues to carve a niche in the rap music scene. The latest addition to his discography is the single ‘Flying’.
Following his well-received 2024 singles ‘Old Times & Good Wishes’ and ‘From Touch 2 Tackle’, River Nelson saunters into 2025 with ‘Flying’. Joined by UK-based producer Shaan Angel, the single captures a softer, smoother, but haunting side to Nelson’s repertoire. A rap-driven style – signature of River Nelson – is evident with the powerful lyrical execution; yet, and this might be me only, the infusion of hard-hitting rap into a silky flush of classical piano creates a mesmerising soundscape. The vibrant interplay of raw grit and floating-on-air charm highlights Nelson and Angel’s sophistication, skill and artistry.
In all honesty, you could listen to the melody and be lost in its soulful arrangement, but it is the theme and lyricism that add weight to the track. Executed with Nelson’s rich vocals, ‘Flying’ explores ambition, self-discovery, resilience and empowerment. Nelson explains:
“’Flying’ is partly aspirational and partly a documentation of where I am in my life as an artist and person. It also tells the story of where I’ve been and what I’ve experienced in my constant pursuit to better myself.”
Sincere, sentimental and reflective, River Nelson has caught my attention with ‘Flying’. I am eager to listen to more of his discography and cannot wait for the upcoming EP, Mental Notes.
Find out more about River Nelson on his Bandcamp, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram and Spotify.
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