Chauhan, a rising name in the rap and hip-hop scene, is back with his latest single, “Age 17,” an emotionally charged anthem that reveals the struggles and triumphs of his journey as an artist. The track delves into the formative years of his life, offering listeners a glimpse into the personal battles that fueled his passion for music.
Starting his songwriting journey at just 15 years old, Vaibhav Chauhan’s early work was kept under wraps. It wasn’t until he turned 17 that he found the courage to share his music with his family and friends, a pivotal moment in his life. Facing skepticism and doubt, Chauhan used the criticism as motivation to push forward, never losing sight of his dream. Now, his latest single serves as a powerful testament to the resilience, ambition, and self-belief that define his path.
After relocating to the UK, Vaibhav Chauhan found a supportive community of fellow musicians who encouraged him to continue honing his craft. Their understanding of his vision allowed him to embrace his storytelling style more deeply, as he began crafting songs that reflected both his personal experiences and his roots. One of the most striking lines in “Age 17” captures the essence of his journey: "Zindagi ki kadi sachai, Jispai kadi kri na gaur, Apne bhi Deve hai sath Jab chale hai thari Daur," translating to, "The hard reality of life is that your own beloved people support you when you finally make it; no one wants to support you while you're struggling." These words resonate with anyone who has ever felt alone in their grind, underscoring the isolation and perseverance required to succeed.
The chorus of “Age 17” further amplifies this message of persistence and hustle: "Umar 17 mai likhe gane jo, Kayi hasse mar mar kehve, Bol tere low, Bhai thara pura hustler yo! Kaha rachengai itihaas, Ek din mere bol," which roughly means, "When I was 17, I tried to show my song to my loved ones, and they said to do something that suits you. But even then, I had a hustler's mindset and said one day my lyrics and music would create history." Chauhan’s words capture the tenacity that has driven him, even in the face of doubt and limited resources.
Despite recording with nothing more than basic software and his phone, Chauhan’s determination never wavered. Drawing inspiration from Punjabi legends like Sidhu Moosewala, who rose from modest beginnings to achieve global fame, Vaibhav Chauhan is driven by the desire to bring the same recognition to his own roots. He aims to uplift his village and language, using his music as a vehicle to showcase his heritage on an international stage.
“Age 17” is not just a song—it’s a declaration of Vaibhav Chauhan’s unyielding spirit. His unique blend of storytelling, cultural pride, and lyrical prowess positions him as an artist to watch in the ever-evolving rap scene. With this release, Chauhan solidifies his place as a rising star, proving that no matter where you come from, hard work and self-belief can transform dreams into reality.
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