Chad Michael’s “The Aura” is the first single of 2019. An electric ride through city lights and temptation, a personification of the beauty and darkness that big cities bring, especially when maneuvering in the music industry as an independent artist. Having moved to Los Angeles almost 5 years ago with no connections, Chad issues a powerful statement with this song: “I’m still here, and I’m better than ever.”

A cutting lead guitar riff (the first time Chad has played on his own track) and a roaring engine set the tone for the ride ahead, with CM’s impactful lyricism and delivery again taking center stage amongst pulsating synths and 808s. ‘The Aura’ is Chad’s 2nd single off of his upcoming EP, “Rain III”, and a confident step forward into the rest of 2019.

Since moving to Los Angeles in 2014, Chad Michael has steadily crafted his sound into a unique mix of hip-hop and R&B, drawing from a variety of influences. In the last year, while recording and mixing the final installment of his “Rain” EP Trilogy, he has performed at such venues as LA’s famous Viper Room and The Airliner.

The Arizona native’s clever lyrics are often reminiscent of some of Chicago and Brooklyn’s most conscious hip-hop legends, while he owes much of his melodic rhythm to the Dirty South, rap holy grounds like Atlanta and Houston. Smooth, sultry R&B vibes from the 90s and early 2000s also claim their influence in many songs, each it’s own blend of influence and innovation, with tongue-tying rap verses sometimes shifting seamlessly into shimmering falsetto choruses.

Much of CM’s music follows similar themes: lust, anxiety, mistrust, and melancholy are often juxtaposed with a growing confidence in his ability to change the world through words and sounds. With the ability to shape each and every song into something new, CM continues to evolve and push the boundaries of his sound and style.