St. Louis-based underground artist Zuke has released his thought-provoking single, “Pretender.” The song delves into the struggle of feeling the need to wear a mask and adopt a false persona in order to gain acceptance from others. Zuke captures the experience of faking one’s personality, including likes, dislikes, motivations, and individuality. However, the track also poses an introspective question: Why be oneself when it seems more appealing to be everything that everyone loves? This internal battle is a common theme that resonates with many individuals, especially among Zuke’s generation.
Influenced by the Disney movie “Luca” and the Marvel show “Moon Knight,” Zuke drew inspiration from the sacrifices made by the characters in those narratives. The protagonist of “Luca” sacrifices his relationship with his best friend in order to seek acceptance from the townspeople, an experience that deeply resonated with the artist. Sonically, Zuke’s music has been compared to the artist Glaive, but he adds his own twist of rap and punk elements. The resulting sound can be described as an indie/rap/punk fusion, showcasing Zuke’s unique artistic approach.
As an artist, Zuke embraces versatility and explores multiple genres in his music. With a passion for fashion and a background in dance, he brings a diverse range of influences to his musical creations. Releasing music on a monthly basis, Zuke supports his music career by working at Qdoba, folding burritos. His ultimate goal is to break into the mainstream music scene, all while staying true to his distinctive sound.
Drawing inspiration from artists such as Glaive, Dominic Fike, Cybertrash, and the entirety of pop punk music, Zuke takes pride in creating music that stands out from the rest. His dedication to authenticity sets him apart, and he is determined to continue elevating his craft.
Explore the artistic journey of Zuke and experience his unique sound by listening to “Pretender” and delving into his captivating discography. Stay tuned as Zuke strives to make his mark on the broader music scene, providing listeners with an original and genuine musical experience that resonates on a profound level.
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