ZOOLOOK is a multidisciplinary artist and musician hailing from San Francisco, whose sonic fingerprint is unmistakably rooted in the golden era of music; from the 1960s to the 1980s. Drawing deeply from the soul, funk, dub, reggae, and electronic sounds that shaped those decades, ZOOLOOK creates music that bridges the analog past with the digital present. His art is both a homage and an evolution; a fusion of deep basslines, atmospheric synths, and messages that matter. ZOOLOOK brings forward not just sound but soul, wrapping truth, groove, and cinematic storytelling into his music. His artistry is steeped in purpose, channeling the awareness and resistance of civil rights-era music into modern times.
ZOOLOOK’s latest release, “Power of the People (Radio Edit)”, dropped on April 20th, 2025, and stands as a commanding declaration of artistic vision, cultural consciousness, and musical innovation. As the first single of the year from this genre-bending artist, the track arrives with a clear mission: to energize, unify, and awaken. With roots in the soul, funk, and electronic traditions of the 60s through the 80s, ZOOLOOK has long positioned himself as a messenger of both groove and truth. This track, in particular, exemplifies his ability to draw from the past while speaking directly to the present moment. At a time when the world feels increasingly polarized and disjointed, “Power of the People (Radio Edit)” channels a much-needed sense of hope, resistance, and collective strength.
The track’s introduction grabs attention immediately with a bassline that pulses. It is impossible to ignore. From the first few seconds, ZOOLOOK’s mastery of rhythm and production is evident. The blend of analog funk textures with slick modern production techniques creates a listening experience that is both familiar and refreshingly new. There’s a clear sense of intention behind every beat, every synth swell, every percussive accent. It’s music that knows where it comes from and where it’s going. The retro elements recall the golden era of protest music, while the clean, polished sound makes it ready for any contemporary playlist. It is a masterful balancing act between nostalgia and innovation.
One of the defining features of “Power of the People (Radio Edit)” is its sparse yet impactful use of vocals. Instead of overwhelming the listener with lyrics, ZOOLOOK uses vocal elements as texture and punctuation, allowing the music itself to carry much of the emotional and narrative weight. When the vocals do emerge, they serve as potent reminders of the track’s deeper themes. Hummed harmonies and brief, evocative phrases punctuate the groove, lending the track a haunting and human presence amid its electronic landscape. This minimalism is a bold artistic choice, and it works. It invites listeners to lean in, to feel the track rather than simply consume it.
The production on this song is pristine. every sonic layer has been carefully crafted and positioned to create a multidimensional experience. From the warm analog synths to the crisp percussion and the deep, rhythmic bass guitar, there is a tactile richness to the mix that is rare in today’s digital-heavy music environment. ZOOLOOK’s experience as a multi-instrumentalist shines through with every shift in texture and tone. The instrumentation isn’t just impressive; it is expressive. It tells a story, captures a feeling, and reflects a legacy of musical pioneers like Herbie Hancock and Kraftwerk, while also pushing the boundaries of genre and structure.
A pivotal moment In the conception of the track came when ZOOLOOK was inspired by Senator Cory Booker’s speech on the Senate floor. Originally titled “Power to the People”, the song was renamed to “Power of the People” as a response to Booker’s powerful words: “The power of the people is greater than the people in power.” That shift from a demand to a declaration gave the song a new emotional dimension. It transformed it from a protest chant to a triumphant affirmation. The track no longer simply asks for justice or equality; it asserts that the strength already lies within the people themselves. This thematic evolution is embedded in every beat of the track, giving it a layered resonance that rewards repeated listens.
Sonically, the song captures a state of forward momentum. There’s an underlying propulsion that drives the track from beginning to end, giving it a cinematic quality. You can imagine this song scoring a pivotal moment in a film, rallying a crowd, or soundtracking a personal breakthrough. Its 3:38 runtime flies by, but it leaves an impression that lingers. The arrangement avoids traditional verse-chorus structure, opting instead for a continuous flow that mirrors the very idea of a movement; something that builds, expands, and refuses to be boxed in. It is as much an experience as it is a composition. “Power of the People” is ZOOLOOK’s first Direct-to-Fans release, with two versions available: A streaming-friendly radio edit for platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and TIDAL, and A full-length version available exclusively via Bandcamp and ZOOLOOK’s official website.
What truly sets “Power of the People (Radio Edit)” apart is its message of unity and empowerment. While many modern tracks chase trends or dancefloor appeal, ZOOLOOK aims for something deeper. His music is rooted in the belief that art should move people not just physically but emotionally and socially. This track stands as a reflection of that belief. It grooves, yes; but it also galvanizes. It brings listeners together under a shared rhythm, a common pulse, and a reminder that we are stronger together than apart. In this way, ZOOLOOK continues the legacy of the musical revolutionaries who inspired him, infusing his own unique voice and vision into the mix.
In the end, “Power of the People (Radio Edit)” is a masterclass in musical storytelling. It is the kind of song that reminds you of what music can do when it is created with purpose and passion. ZOOLOOK has delivered a track that feels both timely and timeless; a rare feat in today’s fast-moving music scene. With its infectious energy, exquisite production, and powerful themes, the song stands as a testament to the enduring power of sound as a vehicle for change. This isn’t just a single; it’s a statement, a soundtrack for resistance, and a celebration of collective strength. Whether you’re listening alone or with a crowd, one thing is certain: this song will move you.
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