Bootie Brown - UnAwake (Single)

Bootie Brown Returns With Genre-Bending Single UnAwake.

Bootie Brown, legendary rapper, producer and founding member of The Pharcyde, is back with UnAwake — a bold new single that refuses to sit neatly in any category. Blending opera, soul, funk and experimental hip-hop into what he dubs UltraHipFunkWave, Brown once again proves himself a boundary-pushing force.

Speaking on the track, he explains: “UnAwake is based on the undisturbed dream of doing what many may feel is impossible because they’ve given up on the dream. Sometimes the dream is what you need to get beyond the thought of people saying you can’t.”

The song’s cinematic scope comes courtesy of producer Fabrice Grassin, with Brown layering in operatic vocals, live strings and the unmistakable presence of Chicago soul singer Peven Everett. The result is hypnotic yet danceable — both ethereal and grounded.

Brown has long been known for reshaping hip-hop’s possibilities, from The Pharcyde’s era-defining classics like Passin’ Me By, to Grammy-nominated collaborations with Gorillaz (Dirty Harry, New Gold), and international projects with Africa Express. Currently touring with Africa Express, he will also join Gorillaz at London’s Copper Box Arena on 30 August.

Beyond music, Brown co-runs Store No 242 and the streaming platform PharcydeTV, underscoring his commitment to culture in all its forms. With more releases planned this year, UnAwake signals the start of an exciting new chapter — one built on fearless creativity and an unwavering refusal to stay in one lane.