Unfortunately, this is a bit of an overdue post but I’ve been meaning to show love to the homie Dew for a few weeks now. Ever since his second solo single since 2023 was unveiled, I’ve had this sub-3-minute sonic journey entitled “Cross On My Chest” in my daily rotation of tracks.
I feel very fortunate that I was able to hear different stages of this track’s production as Dew progressed to the final version and I’m confident he landed on the best version for his official release. His attention to detail on both the production and writing sides as well as his thematically conscious intent makes this an especially inspiring and addictive listen. This dual-sided adventure of a track evokes two contrasting vibes out of me and I’m not sure I could choose which one I like better; the whole song works harmoniously and each “leg” works with the other to make complete sonic sense.
Both sides of “Cross On My Chest” are dynamic and wildly unique but they work together with a certain cohesiveness that only a seasoned producer could accomplish. Just like Pierre Bourne or Pharrell, producer/songwriters can find such unique ways to create a track around their production, and Dew tapped into the best form of his vocal and production talents on this one… it’s a wildly dope song.
Dew’s ability to take control with his vocals at some points in this track while his production takes the wheel at others showcases an elite ability. The airy stabbing synths a minute in are spectacular and take over the track after Dew commands the first minute with his vocals. The final minute is an unapologetic testament to Dew’s skills and he most definitely “ate” in every moment of this cut.
Dew was kind enough to offer a few words about his inspiration for this cut and how his creative process for “Cross On My Chest” differed from his first solo release “Waters of March”. Read below.
“So the biggest differences between the two, would be obvious. Waters was a cover, Crosses is an original composition. So I had more areas to add my own voice to Crosses. Also they are completely different genres. I just like artists with prolific discographies, and I hope to be one of those artists one day.”
“Crosses was super inspired by the DJ sets I was doing these past two years. The Mala Noche events we held… etc. I always like the bridge between electronic and hip-hop. It’s super inspired by Yeezus in its own way. I think it’s prolly my least accessible song and simultaneously my most accessible. For that reason alone, I love it.”
Stream “Cross On My Chest” below and tap into Dew’s art sooner than later!
