Dahi’s “Running“ with Childish Gambino has been putting some serious mileage on my speakers. It’s one of those songs that somehow feels different depending on when you listen to it. Early in the morning, it feels grounding, while at night it becomes almost meditative. The horns, layered vocals, and the silence between them are just as important as the notes themselves. Those quiet moments reveal something new with each listen, allowing the song to evolve depending on where you meet it.
It’s difficult to put into words exactly what “Running” evokes, and maybe that’s the point. There’s something deeply comforting about it, but it also stirs something underneath the surface. Rather than demanding your attention, it invites you to sit with it. Dance with it. Cry with it. My body seems to understand the song before my brain can find the language to match.
“And I always say what I know to be, what I know to be true”
There’s a sense of trust and self-reflection woven throughout “Running,” a feeling that carries through every layer of Dahi’s production. For years, he has helped shape the sound of projects from artists including Kendrick Lamar, SZA, Drake, Childish Gambino, Steve Lacy, Kali Uchis, Vince Staples, Brent Faiyaz, and the list somehow keeps going. While his name may not be instantly recognizable to every casual listener, there’s a good chance you’ve already fallen in love with something he’s helped create.
“Running pays homage to my heritage. Black is beautiful. Bringing all I love into one space.” – Dahi
With “Running,” Dahi describes the track as a tribute to his heritage and a celebration of bringing all the sounds and influences that shaped him into one space – a feeling that comes through in the song’s openness and emotional depth.
Despite Grammy wins and an incredible résumé as a producer, Black Boy (Alternative) marks Dahi stepping forward as the artist at the center of his own story. “Running,” featuring longtime collaborator Childish Gambino, is the latest preview of the album ahead of its August release. It’s what happens when someone who’s spent years building worlds for other artists decides to build one of their own.
If “Running” is any indication, Dahi isn’t interested in making music that fits neatly into one genre. He’s making music that asks you to feel first and find the words later. I still don’t know exactly how to describe “Running” – I just know I keep coming back to it.
Previous releases “Gravity” with Tyler, The Creator and Brent Faiyaz, and “Magnolia Tree” with Pale Jay have held strong positions on my personal playlists, and I’m excited to include “Running” in my daily vibes.
If Dahi isn’t on your radar yet, “Running” is a beautiful place to start.
