Randa Drops New Single 'Toughen Up'

Tāmaki Makaurau rapper Randa aka Mainard Larkin has followed up June's killer comeback single 'Rock Bottom' with punchy new track 'Toughen Up', which they'll be celebrating the release of in style with a free party happening at Cupid Bar this Friday. Swapping out ear-tickling synths for crunchy guitars and club-shaking Big Beat grooves, the Shannon Fowler-produced tune recalls the likes of 90s dance titans Chemical Brothers or Prodigy in its capacity to bring the good times. Despite its title, the single is in fact an affirmational anthem of resistance against Aotearoa's hard-guy celebrating culture, as Randa explains...

“'Toughen Up' explores themes of mental health, the internal / external pressures of feeling like it's not okay to feel weak or depressed during challenging times. This song dives into the state of chaos which ensues when one tries to fight off their natural vulnerabilities. Musically inspired by Kelis and The Beastie Boys, lyrically inspired by societal outlooks regarding unpleasant emotions.”

'Toughen Up' is streamable now via Spotify.