Servitude Through Music| Posted November 23, 2020 What You Need To Know Zauntee is a 21-year old independent rapper from Tampa, Florida. His passion for music began at the young age of 10. He started producing his own music. Zauntee’s made a prominent impact on the Christian Hip-Hop (CHH) genre shortly after at the age of 17 when his first single and video debuted “God Taught Me.” To date, the video has over 8.5 million views.
Zauntee has quite a successful touring history in a small span of time. He joined Casting Crowns for their Only Jesus Tour covering nearly 60 dates of travel. Then, he joined the Winter Jam tour in 2020 for a little more than 20 dates before the tour was canceled due to COVID-19.
Now, three years after exploding onto the Christian Hip-Hop (CHH) scene, Zauntee releases his debut album, 3:34. In September 2020, Zauntee explained his concept behind the album on Twitter: “We all have different battles, but we feel the same emotions. I have three desires: to glorify God, to take care of my family, and to be here for you (his fans).” 3:34 is personal. It’s transparent. It’s a direct connection between the music and the fans. This is for his fans, named the Zealots.
What it Sounds Like Zauntee took a unique approach to how the album begins. Instead of launching his debut with a set of energetic, hype tracks, he chose his lead single for the project to be “I’m Sorry,” an apologetic display of emotional rawness putting everything on the line.
The album's tempo relates directly to the roller coaster of ups and downs. And, the album finishes strong, claiming victory through Jesus. 3:34 mirrors such with several slowed-down lyrical testimonies of faith sprinkled with powerful body-moving anthems wrapped up the single that started it all, “God Taught Me.”
The instrumentation stands out as an album highlight. Throughout, listeners will hear electric guitar, trumpet, piano, a choir, bells, and your typical dose of trap-laced high hats, as well as strong basslines. The diversity of the tracks impresses as well. The uber personal tracks like “Hurricane” and “I’m Sorry.” The summer, game-time powerhouses like “Winning” and “Showtime.” The soon-to-be radio hit “Glory.” There are hidden gems for every type of mood.
Spiritual Highlights Like most artists within the CHH genre, Zauntee is unashamed of the gospel and spreading the Good News of Christ. One of the most prominent examples is the track “Glory.” Literally, it’s a worship-infused track with a whirlwind of impressive sounds and an ode to God, our creator. “Trust” dives into Zauntee’s personal trust in God regardless of the circumstance. “Die For You” explains his thankfulness for all God represents in his life and how he’d do nearly anything in return as a form of payment, gratitude.
There is no lack of God’s presence on this album. It’s smothered and laced in faith, worship, and devotion. It’s a letter of encouragement during the difficult faith walk from start to finish.
Best Song on the Record My personal favorite track is “Glory.” It’s placed directly in the middle of the album with reason. I love the song's sonic appeal: the electric guitar, the choir, as well as the track's energy. The crossover between gospel and hip-hop is incredible. I’d love to see this track remixed with the likes of Tye Tribbett, Dietrick Haddon, or Travis Greene.
Final Word Zauntee’s debut album has a different vibe for most moods on any given day. Songs that encourage. Songs you can relate to. Songs that hype you up. It’s a welcomed collection of sounds begging for repeat listens. He’s discovered his core sound from the beginning, as many years of constant success are sure to follow his footsteps in the years to follow.
Stream the debut album on Spotify or purchase the project on iTunes.
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