Ones2Watch Home

Photo: rylblonde

Is marriage an outdated concept? While, traditionally, weddings have been seen as a celebration of love and unity, many of my fellow postcolonial Gen Z-ers may deem them as antiquated and problematic... that is, until recently.

Over the past few days, there has been a strong cultural push favoring marriage, with Google reporting that Gen Z has been searching “marriage” more than terms like “Fortnite battle pass” and “grimace shake.” While our nation’s top data scientists sit on their hands looking for the reason for the change, I alone know the reason for the sudden paradigm shift: Kanii.

Viral sensation and D.C. artist Kanii returns to us this month with his new track “marry me” —simultaneously breathing new life into both marriage and music. Though you might be unfamiliar with his name, there’s a strong chance that you’ve heard his hits like “Go” and “I Know” making waves on TikTok over the past year. Found at the hazy intersection of dance-pop, sigilkore, and jersey club, Kanii consistently pushes music forward with each and every carefully-crafted release.

Over soft '80s synths and a funk-laden bassline, “marry me” makes me believe in marriage with Kanii’s heartfelt writing style and dulcet vocals taking center stage. Somehow perfect for a romantic getaway or a night in the club, Kanii’s newest banger reaches yet another creative peak while still carrying the momentum of several viral hits. Armed with a sage wisdom beyond his years and an uncanny affinity for cleverly written bangers, it’s no wonder why Kanii’s music has been borderline inescapable on social media this year.

With more music hopefully slated for release before the end of the year, “marry me” is yet another reason why Kanii is deserving of both your eyes and ears this year. If tracks like these are any indication of things to come, then we are truly in for something special from the rising 18-year-old star.

Watch the "marry me" video below: