On April 3, 2025, Australian hip-hop group ONEFOUR made waves in the music community with the announcement of their debut album, Look At Me Now, set to release on June 13. The group, which originated in Mount Druitt, New South Wales, has carved a niche for themselves in the music industry, thanks to their distinctive drill sound and authenticity in storytelling. Their path has not been without challenges, as they have mirrored the struggles faced by their community and, as they describe, “the ones who wake up and know they're destined for greatness, no matter what obstacles they face.”
As they prepare for this new chapter, the album’s announcement is thrilling for fans who have witnessed their rapid ascent over the past five years. This article will explore the significance of Look At Me Now, the stories behind ONEFOUR’s music, and what this means for the future of Australian hip-hop.
Comprising members J Emz, Celly, Lekks, and Spenny, ONEFOUR has built a reputation for their raw and authentic sound. They first gained momentum with tracks like “The Message” and “Spot the Difference,” which achieved double and triple platinum certifications in Australia, respectively. Their contagious popularity surged during the pandemic when their viral remix of “SPINNIN” landed them on Spotify’s Viral 50 charts in over 30 countries, effectively making them household names.
ONEFOUR’s drill style, characterized by hard-hitting beats and gritty lyrics, resonates deeply with a broad audience. However, their lyrical themes often reflect their lived experiences—the adversity faced as young men of color in Australia and the desire to uplift their community. Their music does not shy away from the complexities of life—struggles with identity, social inequality, and the pursuit of dreams in the face of overwhelming odds.
The rise of ONEFOUR can be viewed within the larger context of Australian music, where culture and community contexts form the backbone of musical expressions. Although their roots are grounded in Western Sydney, their messages resonate universally, tackling themes of resilience and ambition.
The anticipation surrounding Look At Me Now is palpable. The album is not just a collection of songs; it aims to be a beacon of hope for listeners who share in the journey of chasing aspirations. The group describes this work as a “message of hope, a letter to the pain, and a welcome to a better future that has no boundaries.” The album promises to build on their previous successes while exploring new sounds and collaborations.
Working with a talented production team, including Grammy-nominated producer 18YOMAN, ONEFOUR is poised to deliver an album that not only reflects their journey but also appeals to a broader audience. Their single “Phone Call,” featuring UK pop artist Mabel, samples Bob Marley’s classic “Is This Love?”—a nod to their musical influences and roots.
“Bob Marley’s an artist that was loved and listened to often in our households, so it’s an honor to be able to sample one of his bangers,” Spenny remarked, emphasizing the personal significance of their music choices.
Along with the album release, ONEFOUR has announced their most extensive national tour, with dates across 13 cities in Australia. This tour marks an exciting opportunity for fans to engage with the group live, experiencing the energy that defines their performances.
Fans can expect a thrilling concert experience as ONEFOUR aims to showcase their growth as artists and connect directly with their audience. The tour will also serve as a platform for songs from Look At Me Now, promising an exciting blend of new tracks and familiar hits.
Ticketing information and specific tour dates are set to be released shortly, and anticipation is high for what they will bring to stages across Australia.
ONEFOUR’s journey has not been without hardship. The group has faced controversies and police scrutiny, particularly surrounding their raw drill sound, which has often been misinterpreted by authorities as promoting violence. However, they have harnessed these obstacles as fuel for their art, turning personal and societal challenges into powerful music that reflects the reality many face in their community.
Their struggles and achievements have captured significant media attention, culminating in the acclaimed 2023 Netflix documentary ONEFOUR: Against All Odds. This documentary chronicled their rise against systemic barriers, illustrating the dedication it takes to succeed in an often unwelcoming industry.
Community is at the heart of ONEFOUR’s music. The collective often refers to their background in speaking to the realities of life for young Australians in marginalized areas. Their lyrics frequently echo the frustrations, aspirations, and resilience found within their communities.
As they prepare for their debut, the group remains dedicated to engaging directly with fans. They continuously seek to ensure their music serves not just as entertainment but also as inspiration for those navigating their paths. “It’s for those who want more,” they emphasize; they want their audience to understand that their aspirations are reachable.
As they gear up for the album release and national tour, the music industry watches closely to see how ONEFOUR evolves. With their knack for storytelling combined with raw talent, they are set to make a substantial impact on the global stage.
Their trajectory suggests a promising future, with opportunities to expand their reach internationally. Collaborations with artists such as Mabel hint at their potential to cross cultural and geographical boundaries.
ONEFOUR’s influence on the Australian hip-hop scene cannot be overstated. They represent a new wave of artists redefining the genre's landscape, melding local significance with global themes. As they continue to create and perform, they challenge the industry's norms and inspire a new generation of artists.
ONEFOUR's debut album, Look At Me Now, is scheduled for release on June 13, 2025.
The title Look At Me Now reflects a message of resilience and transformation, communicating their journey from humble beginnings to mainstream success.
Ticket details for ONEFOUR's national tour will be released on April 4, 2025. Fans can visit their official website or follow their social media channels for updates.
Expect themes of ambition, struggle, community, hope, and the journey toward greatness—the very essence of ONEFOUR's story as artists.
The documentary ONEFOUR: Against All Odds highlighted their struggles and success, providing insights into their artistic process and the societal barriers they navigate, further connecting them with their audience.
Overall, Look At Me Now is set to be a turning point for ONEFOUR, allowing them to cement their legacy within the Australian music scene while inspiring unbounded aspirations in listeners everywhere.