Denali Nova Steps Into His Own With Electrifying New Single “Tonic”

Brooklyn singer-songwriter Denali Nova is stepping confidently into a new chapter of his career with “Tonic,” an electrifying single and visual that puts his identity as a front-facing artist firmly into focus. Released on May 8, the record serves as the first offering from his forthcoming EP, ON A TRANCE, and introduces listeners to an emerging Afro-futuristic sound built around movement, atmosphere, and fearless creative expression.

Produced by South African producer Dave Audinary, “Tonic” brings together elements of Afro, house, R&B soul, and dance music, creating a vibrant record that feels perfectly suited for warm nights, packed dance floors, and repeat listens. Denali’s delivery moves comfortably between smooth and edgy, while the song’s infectious hook gives the record an immediate quality that stays with the listener. Rather than allowing one genre to define him, Denali uses the production as a playground, blending influences into a sound that feels contemporary while still carrying a personality of its own.

The visual expands that world even further. Denali teamed with VMA Award-winning choreographer and director Matthew Pasterisa, whose credits include work with Teyana Taylor, Tiana Major9, and Kelela, to create an experience where choreography becomes an essential part of the storytelling. Videographer Stas Kovalevsky, known for work involving We Ani and Mover Magazine, captures the energy with a polished, editorial approach that complements Denali’s growing visual identity.

Shot in Queens, New York, the “Tonic” video begins as a laid-back gathering among friends before taking an unexpected turn. After Denali drinks a mysterious potion, the atmosphere transforms into a hypnotic, high-energy dance party filled with dynamic choreography and commanding dance breaks. The concept gives the track another dimension, turning the video into more than a traditional performance piece and allowing Denali to showcase the charisma, movement, and personality at the center of his artistry.

Visual references drawn from Janet Jackson and the cinematic tone of Sinners help give the project its distinctive character. Styled by Eddie “Edds” Villegas, Denali appears in fashion-forward looks that strengthen the futuristic world surrounding “Tonic” while reinforcing his willingness to push beyond predictable presentation. Every element, from the styling and choreography to the video’s cinematography, feels connected to the larger artistic direction Denali is establishing as he moves toward the release of ON A TRANCE.

For listeners discovering Denali Nova for the first time, “Tonic” may feel like an introduction, but his experience in music extends well beyond this release. Behind the scenes, he has worked alongside respected names including Grammy Award-winning icon Brandy, Avery Wilson, Gene Noble, and Siaira Shawn, gaining experience that has helped sharpen his instincts as a songwriter and creative. Those years of collaboration now provide a strong foundation as Denali turns the focus toward his own voice, sound, and artistic vision.

With “Tonic,” Denali Nova makes it clear that he is ready to occupy the spotlight on his own terms. The record’s genre-blending production, memorable hook, ambitious choreography, and carefully constructed visual world offer an early glimpse at what listeners can expect from ON A TRANCE. More importantly, the release presents Denali as an artist with the versatility, confidence, and imagination to build something distinctly his own. He is no longer simply contributing from behind the scenes. With “Tonic,” Denali Nova is setting the tone for what comes next.