If you're craving that perfect blend of smooth confidence and infectious summer energy right now, Hayley Wallis and Kiva Mh just dropped exactly what you need. Their new single "Deadly" is a slick Indie R&B/Trap Soul collaboration that feels like sunshine mixed with late-night drives along the West Coast.
This track wastes no time pulling you in. The production is modern and polished, layering crisp beats with atmospheric elements that give it that Trap Soul edge while staying firmly rooted in soulful Indie R&B territory. It's the kind of song that begs to be played on repeat—confident, vibey, and impossible to sit still through. Whether you're into Alt Pop, Pop Rap influences, or straight-up alternative R&B, "Deadly" delivers a fresh take that stands out in today's crowded indie scene.
Hayley Wallis brings the commanding presence. Her rich, textured vocals carry emotional weight and effortless clarity that immediately grabs attention. Originally from Klemtu in the Great Bear Rainforest, Hayley channels her Indigenous roots into music that feels expansive and authentic. Since releasing her debut album Halulu in 2022, she's built serious momentum—hitting #1 on NCI’s Indigenous Music Countdown, landing spots on SiriusXM’s Indigiverse and Poplandia, and earning features on Spotify’s Indigenous editorial playlist. Halulu was named one of 2023’s Top Indigenous Albums by Stingray, and she was a CBC Searchlight finalist. Live, she’s unstoppable, with over 80 performances including Vancouver Folk Festival, jazz fests in Toronto and Victoria, and the International Indigenous Music Summit.
Kiva Mh, a Secwépemc/Nuu-Chah-Nulth hip-hop artist and producer from Cache Creek, adds that extra layer of fire. His hip-hop background brings rhythmic edge and modern production flair to the collaboration, making "Deadly" feel like a true meeting of worlds. Together, these West Coast Indigenous artists have created something rooted in identity and connection while staying undeniably fun and accessible.
What makes "Deadly" special is how it balances cultural depth with universal appeal. It’s a summer-ready anthem that celebrates vibe, confidence, and genuine connection without ever feeling forced. The team has backed it with real strategy—$1K in ad spend, over 60 reels, and growing virality across social platforms—which shows they’re serious about reaching ears everywhere. With the track now available on major platforms, this release feels primed to break through.
In a year full of anticipated R&B and alternative drops, "Deadly" shines as a standout independent effort. It captures that sweet spot where soulful vocals meet contemporary production, creating music that feels both timely and timeless. Indigenous artists continue to push boundaries and enrich the broader scene, and collaborations like this prove how powerful those voices are when they link up.
If you love smooth Indie R&B that moves between introspection and straight-up groove, add "Deadly" to your rotation immediately. It’s the soundtrack for good days, good feelings, and owning your energy. Hayley Wallis and Kiva Mh are artists to watch closely—this won’t be their last big moment.
What do you think of this West Coast Indie R&B sound? Drop your thoughts in the comments and share your favorite summer tracks right now.
If you’re an independent artist looking to get your music out to the world, DistroKid makes distribution to Spotify, Apple Music, and everywhere else incredibly easy. You keep more of your earnings and stay in control. Use this link for 7% off your membership: https://distrokid.com/vip/seven/2058328. It’s one of the best tools out there for artists building their careers the smart way.
