Dallas rapper Nana Bangz has just released her new single, "Alive," and it's a perfect example of this up-and-comer's diverse style and swag. Inspired by the great female artists of the 90s like Lil Kim and Missy Elliott, Nana Bangz also brings her own modern style to her trap-heavy work.

Releasing elevated dirty south bangers since 2018, something that will strike listeners quickly is how much she's worked on her craft. In an age where mumble rap has finally been ousted and clever verse is back on top, Nana has adapted and brought her rich vocabulary and ability to craft bars to her recent work. Tracks like 2022's "Rah Rah" and "Show Out," released in 2023, show she has the heavy, intimidating presence of Lady of Rage with the fast spitting ability of Megan Thee Stallion. It's a deadly combination and certainly makes Nana one to watch.

With yet another combination of old and new, "Alive" opens with a vintage jazz/doo wop sample before Nana's heavy, raspy vocals drop. They don't let up from there, with her intricate verse tangling around the beat, syncopating with it in a variety of ways. The juxtaposition between the fighting, fiery verse, the one word hook of "alive" punctuating the intervals and the lighter vintage samples makes the track much deeper than it may seem at the beginning. The highs and lows of life, the intensity of emotions, even when they're not always pleasant, the breaks or peace and calm: "Alive" is the signpost of a life well lived, not to mention Nana Bangz's skills.

A seminal track for Bangz, "Alive" will likely bring her more recognition in the rap game as it showcases her talent, the work she's put in and her passion for the genre.

Nana Bangz, 'Alive', music video: