Dae Zhen Rejects Music Industry Toxicity in "Leave Me Be" [PREMIERE]

image

Let us introduce you to Fontana, the humble city that sits just 50 miles east of Los Angeles, California. This just so happens to be the hometown of Dae Zhen, the latest rising singer, rapper, and producer who definitely deserves to be on your radar. After being featured on the cover of NPR Music and snagging slots at the House of Blues LA, Zhen deemed it best for himself to put a pause on his musical journey in 2015. Today, he is proud to present an honest new track that reveals why he returned to the music industry, "Leave Me Be."

Most musicians fall under the pressure of releasing exactly what producers say will earn them money and fame, but Zhen knows better. "Leave Me Be" offers Zhen's perspective on the toxicity that comes with LA culture - more particularly, the music industry. Just as he started doing years ago, Zhen ultimately continues to make music for himself, not for anyone else.

Zhen spoke on  "Leave Me Be," exclusively sharing with us,

"'Leave Me Be' is pretty self-explanatory. My 16-year-old self would've never believed that I'd be living in the city, independently making music I love. That being said, making music in LA lends itself to a lifestyle/industry full of fake smiles. This song is a reminder to myself of who I do this for: myself."

Ones To Watch has your first listen of "Leave Me Be" below:

Related Articles

Katherine Li Creates an Intimate Diary of Self-Growth with Debut Album ‘I Love You, or Whatever’

Katherine Li Creates an Intimate Diary of Self-Growth with Debut Album ‘I Love You, or Whatever’

October 23, 2026 Katherine Li has already proven her resonant skill of capturing the familiar anxieties of wondering whether someone will love back, but now in her debut album I Love You, or Whatever, she unapologetically steps into the more nuanced sides of connection and personal growth.
Author: Alysa Benson
pop
K/DA Make the Six-Year Wait Worth It With FIRESTARTER

K/DA Make the Six-Year Wait Worth It With FIRESTARTER

October 23, 2026 With FIRESTARTER, the virtual pop supergroup makes its return with four tracks that hit like a jolt of electricity.
Author: Alessandra Rincon
pop
DJ Suzy Links Up With Her Inner Kira Krash To Create Transformative Debut Album [Q&A]

DJ Suzy Links Up With Her Inner Kira Krash To Create Transformative Debut Album [Q&A]

October 23, 2026 We chatted about the long process of her debut album, what’s changed and what’s stayed true throughout years of growing alongside the friend, foe, and confidant that is 'Kira Krash.'
Author: Giselle Libby
pop