Ilias is reviving the magic of 2010s rap…
Fans of 2010s rap already know the magic that lies in Childish Gambino and Drake’s older tracks, with the smooth blend of singing and rapping. The catchiness of that music is reminiscent of an era which leaned more into simplicity - conversational and honest in a way that felt direct. Ilias is bringing that ethos back through his free verse discography. At first glance, it almost looks like an archive: a handful of singles with covers that look straight out of an iPhone 5 camera roll. But once you tap in, you realise it’s all part of the aesthetic he’s carving for himself.
Peep the single “Lose Me”, which opens with nightcore synths and subdued beats that take you straight back to Drake’s Thank Me Later era. The lyrics are loaded with vulnerability, but it feels like he’s speaking directly to you, without relying on symbols to shroud his feelings. That honesty comes through perfectly in the line, “ain’t no confessions girl, I’m just trying to speak the truth.” The way he moves across octaves in a sing-song tone wraps the track in a catchy warmth, one that’ll have you humming the tune while thinking of someone you don’t want to lose.
Ilias carries that same intimacy into “Stay Up”, where he turns insecurities into confidence in real time. The playful lead and echoing vocals pull you into the boldness of the track, making it feel like you’re physically climbing up with him. Even while driving with the windows down, you can picture the city expanding in front of you like it’s all yours to take.
Go listen to “Stay Up” out now!
If you’re a fan, check it out with the links below. Love y’all.
Myra | Jun 07. 2026