Trap EDM is so back. DJ DIESEL (also known as Shaquille O’Neal) collaborated with DJ-producers GorillaT and FRAXURE for “Pay Respect.” Released via Monstercat, the track shakes the ground with its thumping bassline and dominant message. Prepared for a busy festival summer ahead, DIESEL played shows up and down the East Coast at the tail end of March. On the 22nd, he performed at Echostage in D.C. with collaborator GorillaT. The following weekend, he moved to Miami Music Week for his “Shaq Bass All-Stars” takeover at Mana Wynwood on the 29th. His entourage included artists like Jon Casey, Celo, and Two Friends, creating an explosive lineup for all the bassheads.
“Pay Respect” encapsulates the brimming energy of a festival, taking listeners on a dynamic sound journey. A crisp trap beat starts things off, suspended in the air as the bassline waits for a big entrance. Then, all aspects of the track come to life under DIESEL’s gravelly, deep voice and powerful flow.
Preceding the first drop, he spits the command “Pay respect, all my weapons drawn,” leading into a saw-like section of wubs; the quintessential dubstep drop. Each sound communicates bravado just as much as the lyrics, creating an ideal atmosphere of floor-thumping power. The second drop switches things rhythmically, diving into a satisfying, less intense jungle breakdown. These varying production decisions reflect the blended styles of the three DJs.
DIESEL’s musical journey has taken several turns since his debut in the ’90s with the platinum-certified album Shaq Diesel, followed by the gold-certified Shaq Fu: Da Return. Though his venture into the electronic sphere did not begin until 2014, the essence of DJ DIESEL has always been present. Collaborator GorillaT’s journey is not unlike DIESEL’s. Once a successful college athlete, he pivoted into DJ-ing at 22 years old building his brand from scratch. Coming from the Denver area, he was familiar with EDM through attending shows at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Also from Denver, FRAXURE is just beginning his DJ career with Monstercat. In fact, “Pay Respect” marks his strong debut under the label. His explorations of hard DnB and heavy dubstep attract a niche, bass-loving audience. His method and philosophy?: “No stress, have fun.”
Deciding which shows are worth it can be overwhelming as the festival season ramps up. DIESEL’s unmissable, high-energy shows are here to make things easier. From now until December, catch him at venues across the United States, from Milwaukee to Tacoma. For more information on tickets, dates, and locations, click here.
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