Rising R&B prodigy AKIA returns with intoxicating new single ‘DND’
AKIA, one of the most exciting new voices in the Atlanta landscape right now, returns to the sound sphere with intoxicating new single ‘DND’.
Creating significant noise crafting some of the most addictive R&B ballads to surface in recent months, AKIA continues her rapid ascent towards the upper echelons of the scene with her brand new single “DND”. Combining sleek acoustic riffs with soft bass kicks, the soundtrack provides the perfect foundation for AKIA’s enchanting lyricism to glide across. With just a few releases under her belt, the young American already seems to have found the perfect formula.
Speaking on the single, AKIA states: “[“DND"] is a raw and hypnotic R&B anthem that dives deep into the chaos of a toxic relationship. AKIA captures the paranoia and heartbreak of not trusting her boyfriend—especially when his phone is on *Do Not Disturb*.”
Influenced by the likes of Beyonce, SZA, Keyshia Cole, Monica and Brandy, the Forrest City, Arkansas-based artist first made a name for herself after auditioning for American Idol and appearing on the reality TV show Ms. T’s Music Factory. Gaining a following through viral live streams of stripped back vocal performances, AKIA has recently seen significant collaborations with the likes of GloRilla, Big Boogie and Swagg Jazz of Memphis group Savages—as well as with a slew of notable producers such as Jermaine Dupri, TM88 and Stevie J before signing to Since The 80s, home to Atlanta rap heavyweights EarthGang and JID.
With just two singles out in the ether, “Soft Girl Era” and “F.a.f.o (Freestyle)”, AKIA is already garnering a serious amount of attention, securing over 10 Apple Playlist features and a key performance locked in to play at this year’s esteemed Dreamville Festival.
With a slew of new music promised and her debut album in the pipeline, 2025 looks to be a milestone year for one of the hottest new voices in the US R&B landscape. The immediate gloss and polish of “DND” points to the rise of a genuinely exciting new talent.